Hotels in Medan, Sumatera, Indonesia

The third largest city in Indonesia located on the island of Sumatra is not just a soulless industrial metropolis but it has real character with some worthwhile attractions to help visitors experience authentic Indonesian culture. Among the contemporary infrastructure there is a Dutch Colonial Era charm, interesting attractions, excellent shopping, and good nightlife. The city is known as the Culinary Heaven of Indonesia so expect fantastic food.

The sheer size of the city and the fact it is a financial centre near a major port with a population of 2.2 million means there is plenty of holiday accommodation. You’ll find a good choice of cheap hotels in Medan.

Neighbourhoods of Medan

The city is divided into 21 districts which are then sub-divided into 151 neighbourhoods or Kelurahan (urban villages). The most popular with visitors are:

• Medan Barat: Not only the commercial hub of the city, this is where foodies should head. There’s a huge number of eateries in this district from street food stalls to high-end restaurants offering Indonesian, Chinese, Indian and various European cuisines.
• Namo Simpur: A residential suburb, it’s a pleasant place to relax but the big draw is the Hairos Water Park.
• Medan Kota: Another district with excellent restaurants, the eastern part of the city centre is also home to the Masjid Raya Al-Mashun Mosque.

What to See and Do in Medan

The sights and activities of Medan are strictly urban and mostly architectural and cultural. Top attractions include:

• Istana Maimoon: Built in 1888, the Maimoon Palace is a grand construction displaying Malay, Mughal and Italian influences. Only the throne room is open to the public who are able to dress in a traditional Malay costume for a photograph. There are also performances of traditional music every day.
• Tjong A Fie Mansion: This impressive historic and opulent building was once the home of the wealthiest resident of Medan, Tjong, a Chinese merchant who died in 1921. Mixing Chinese and Victorian styles, it has hand painted ceilings, dark wood furniture inlaid with mother-of-pearl and marble, a ballroom, Taoist temples and an interesting art collection.
• Museum of North Sumatra: An interesting ethnographical collection housed in an impressive traditional building. Exhibits date from early North Sumatran civilisation through to the Dutch Colonial era.
• Sri Mariamman Temple: Dating from 1884, this is Medan’s oldest Hindu temple. Built in the Dravidian style, it features a storied tower decorated with ornamental deities.
• Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni: This quirky church is actually Catholic even though it is built in a combination of Islamic and Hindu styles. Its entrance is via a curved walking bridge.
• The Town Hall: One of the most notable buildings in the city, this stately building is a fine example of ornate colonial architecture.
• Hillpark Sibolangit: The second of two theme parks in Medan (Hairos Water Park is the other>, has a Camelot-themed setting and is packed with rides, play areas and entertainments.

What to Eat in Medan

The multi-cultural food is one of the great experiences and visitors should try as much as they can from all different types of establishments. Traditional foods to try include:

• Soto Medan: The local dish is a savoury stew of mixed meats that are fried then cooked in coconut milk. Served with rice and perkedel, a potato croquette.
• Babi Panggang Karo:Along with plain rice and sambal, this grilled pork is served with a dipping sauce made with pig blood curd.
• Bika Ambon: A favourite local dessert, it is made from tapioca, coconut milk, eggs, and yeast. It comes in various flavours.
• Durian: One of the world’s smelliest foods, it has to be tried just once!

Typical Events and Festivals in Medan

Visitors should be respectful when attending or observing festivals in Medan as they are mainly religion-related. The multi-cultural nature of the population is reflected in events such as:

• Eid: A celebration to mark the end of Ramadan. The Muslim population are very festive on this day.
• Adhi Maha Puja: a Hindu festival in August with prayers, rituals and body piercing.
• Mooncake and Mid-Autumn Festival: A major celebration time for the Chinese in Medan.
• North Sumatran Jazz Festival: Held in December, it is mostly attended by popular Indonesian bands.

How to Move Around in Medan

While there is a good public transport network, it doesn’t cater that well for tourist needs but it is still easy enough to get around. Adventurous types might use the public system, but it is easier to the minivans – known as sudako. These operate on the most popular routes with a standard journey costing around Rp5,000. Taxis are plentiful but it is advisable to negotiate a rate before beginning a journey.

The Climate in Medan

With weather classed as a tropical rainforest climate, there is no real dry season, so visitors should be prepared for rain any time. January is the driest month and October the wettest. The average annual daily temperature is 27°C (81°F).