Things To Do
in Ternate
Ternate is a volcanic island city in North Maluku, Indonesia, set against the Banda Sea with the silhouette of Gamalama on the horizon. Its streets mingle colonial remnants, bustling fish markets, and hillside viewpoints that overlook rugged coastlines. The cuisine centers on seafood, coconuts, and aromatic spices that trace back to the Spice Islands.
The town is compact and welcoming, making it easy to explore forts, old town lanes, and nearby Tidore by short boat trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ternate, settle into your accommodation, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with local dishes. Take some time to acclimate while exploring the nearby beach, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and stunning views. Visit the beautiful Fort Oranje, a historical Dutch fort that offers a glimpse into Ternate's rich history.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and traditional Indonesian cuisine. Spend your afternoon exploring the local markets, where you can find a variety of spices and handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their culture and traditions.
As the sun sets, head to a coastal restaurant for dinner, watching the colorful sky while tasting Ternate's famous grilled fish. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach or visit a nearby café for some local coffee. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance and perhaps catch some live music to round off your first day.
Wake up early and take a guided tour to the Sultan's Palace, where you can learn about Ternate's royal heritage and significance in the Spice Trade. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the palace while appreciating the unique architecture. Don't forget to capture panoramic views of Ternate’s volcano from this historical site.
After lunch, embark on a trip to the local museum to delve deeper into Ternate's history and cultural artifacts. Next, visit the ancient ruins of Fort Tolukko, another fortification that gives insight into the region's colonial past. Enjoy the lush scenery as you hike through the surrounding area.
Dine in a local eatery that offers traditional Ternate cuisine, such as sago and nutmeg dishes. Witness a breathtaking sunset over the harbor, a fantastic photo opportunity. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or exploring night markets for souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚕One-way local transport | $0.3-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $15-40 |
| 🛥️Boat trip option (per person) | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime culture and fresh seafood
- Proximity to Tidore and other islands for diverse island-hopping
- Relatively affordable and easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Fewer English-speaking staff in some venues
- Mobile data can be patchy in certain areas
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me
- "Apa nama tempat ini?" - What is this place called?
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
- "Saya tidak bisa makan pedas" - I can't eat spicy
- "Saya vegetarian" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Ternate
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook of the city and coastline, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Coastal fortress ruins with dramatic sea cliffs and sea-spray backdrops.
Colorful harborfront lanes with historic buildings, fishing boats, and morning light.
Food in Ternate
Ternate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sago porridge served with yellow fish broth and fresh fish; a quintessential Maluku pairing.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish seasoned with local spices and served with lime and sambal.
Smoked tuna prepared in a flavorful, widely loved Maluku preparation.
Spicy raw fish salad with lime, chili, and onions—fresh and vibrant.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant harbor market offering fresh fish, produce, and spice stalls, best explored early in the day.
Evening grills featuring fish skewers, cassava, and tropical fruits along the quay.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms; modest clothing in public spaces and at religious sites.
Greet with a handshake or friendly nod; accepting offered food is customary and appreciated.
In some homes and traditional spaces, shoes are removed before entry.
Safety
Tipping in Ternate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in hotels and restaurants but not mandatory; small tips to guides or porters are common.
Cash (IDR) is widely used; many venues in town accept cards, especially larger establishments; ATMs are available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with low rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and boat trips.
Frequent rain and higher humidity; seas can be choppier and some trails slippery.
Ternate at Night
Hiking in Ternate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging but rewarding hike to crater viewpoints with sweeping sea and city views.
Rugged coastal paths and hill routes offering panoramic ocean views and island scenery.
Airports
How to reach Ternate by plane.
Primary airport serving Ternate with domestic connections and regional flights; taxis or ride-hailing to town are readily available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malay-speaking Muslim communities with indigenous Ternate and Tidore heritage.
Domestic travelers and a growing number of international visitors exploring North Maluku.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local leagues and pickup games occur around town.
Popular around reefs near the coast and nearby islands, with accessible shore entries.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ternate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for coconut greens, vegetable curries, and rice; ask to avoid fish stock or seafood-based broths.