Things To Do
in Tanjungpinang
Tanjungpinang is the capital of the Riau Islands, located on the northern shore of Bintan Island. It blends Malay, Chinese, and Javanese influences, reflected in food, markets, and architecture. The city serves as a gateway to Penyengat Island and nearby beaches and harbor towns.
Visitors can explore traditional markets, historic mosques, and waterfront eateries along the strait.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Tanjungpinang by visiting the iconic Penyengat Island, a historical site that showcases the remnants of the Sultanate of Riau. You can take a short boat ride from the mainland, enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding waters. Once on the island, explore the grand mosque and the ruins of the Sultan's palace, absorbing the rich cultural heritage of the area.
After lunch at a local warung, delve deeper into the history of the region by visiting the Tanjungpinang Museum, where you can learn about the local customs and traditions. The museum features various artifacts that tell the story of the Riau Archipelago's past. Continue your exploration by strolling through the streets of the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood while overlooking the harbor. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories and experiences from your day. Finish your evening with a gentle walk along the beach, listening to the sounds of the waves and enjoying the cool night breeze.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an island-hopping tour around the nearby islands of Bintan. Board a traditional wooden boat and set sail, enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning views of the clear blue waters. Your first stop will be at Lagoi Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on the sandy shores.
After spending the morning at Lagoi, hop back on the boat and head to the stunning White Sands Island. Here, you can take part in various water sports, such as snorkeling or kayaking, to explore the vibrant underwater life. Enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by your tour guide on the beach, taking in the tranquil surroundings.
Return to Tanjungpinang just in time to enjoy the sunset over the horizon. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Goreng or Sate. Conclude your day with a visit to a local market, where you can shop for souvenirs and experience the lively night atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌One-way public transport | $0.3-0.8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🍍Fruit snack | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible gateway to Penyengat Island and Bintan beaches
- Rich Malay-Chinese cultural blend with friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and Western-style attractions
- Some areas have fewer English speakers and tourist infrastructure
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Tolong" - Please/Help me
Places to Visit in Tanjungpinang
Visit one of these nice places.
A centuries-old mosque with distinctive minarets and rich history, offering dramatic sunrise and golden-hour silhouettes.
Historic stilt houses along calm waterways; classic subjects for sunset and portrait photography.
Scenic promenade with ships, ferries, and sea views ideal for night and sunset shots.
Bustling morning market with vibrant produce and locals in action.
Food in Tanjungpinang
Tanjungpinang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish with sambal and lime; widely available at coastal stalls and seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Spicy crab cooked in a rich chili sauce; a signature seafood dish.
Coconut milk rice served with sambal, egg, and anchovies; best at morning stalls.
Stir-fried noodles with shrimp or chicken and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market selling fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and spices; go early for the best picks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a nod; dress modestly when visiting mosques; remove shoes where required.
Safety
Tipping in Tanjungpinang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; leave small change at restaurants and cafes.
Cash (IDR) is widely accepted; some establishments take cards; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with clear skies; ideal for outdoor activities and day trips to nearby beaches.
Frequent brief showers and high humidity; plan indoor activities and flexible boat schedules.
Tanjungpinang at Night
Hiking in Tanjungpinang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate trek to a hill with forested slopes and panoramic views over the sea; best in early morning.
Airports
How to reach Tanjungpinang by plane.
Gateway to Tanjung Pinang on Bintan Island; connects to Jakarta, Batam, and some regional destinations; taxis and ride-hailing are available.
Batam's international airport; serves many regional and international flights; a common transit point to reach Tanjung Pinang by ferry or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main ethnic group with Malay culture dominating local traditions.
Significant Chinese community contributing to markets and cuisine; Chinese temples and shops are common.
Historically present; influences cuisine and trade.
Smaller communities from various parts of Indonesia making up the urban mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very common pastime and competition in community centers and clubs.
Popular among locals; matches and informal games in parks and beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tanjungpinang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many stalls offer vegetable dishes and tofu; look for capcay, gorengan, gado-gado, or fried tofu with rice; ask for no fish sauce.