Places You Must Go While In Medan

As soon as I arrived in Medan, it instantly felt familiar but full of surprises! For me, traveling with the family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, the city’s vibe was vibrant, flavorful, and perfect for exploring with kids. The streets were packed with local specialties like nasi padang, soto Medan, and the legendary Ucok durian 🍛🥥and my little one was super excited to try everything! There are plenty of fun spots like Kampung Keling, Taman Cadika Pramuka, or Kampung Ladang, perfect for taking photos 📷 and enjoying outdoor activities together 🎠🌳.

Medan has a unique atmosphere more laid-back compared to big cities in Java, yet still dynamic with strong Batak and Malay cultural touches. The weather felt just like home hot and humid which made me curious about the Medan weather 🌦️. When I was figuring out where to stay in Medan, I was surprised by how many comfortable and budget-friendly 💳 options there were. And when it comes to food and souvenir shopping 🎁, Medan is a paradise!

🏘️Recommended Local Neighborhood or Cultural District in Medan

🎭 Explore the Cultural Pulse of Kesawan

📝Walking through Kesawan, I felt like I had stepped into a living museum. The streets buzzed with life honking angkot, the scent of fried banana fritters 🍌, and soft Batak music from a nearby shop. The buildings here are stunning Dutch colonial architecture with faded pastel colors, vintage shutters, and creaky wooden doors that whisper history. I ducked into a small coffee shop with antique furniture and old family photos on the wall it felt like a scene from the 1930s. Street vendors sold everything from spicy snacks to souvenirs, and just around the corner, murals told stories of Medan’s Chinese, Malay, and Batak heritage.

📖Kesawan is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Medan, famous for its rich cultural blend and colonial-era charm. It's a must-visit if you're looking for the best neighborhoods in Medan that highlight the city’s multicultural past.

📅 Best time to visit: Late afternoon to early evening
📍 How to get there: GrabCar or becak (trishaw) from Medan Station
💰 Cost: Free to explore, but budget for food and shopping
💡 Pro Tips:
– Visit Tjong A Fie Mansion nearby for a deeper historical dive.
– Try the old-school kopi tiam coffee ☕ at Tip Top Restaurant.
– Check out the vintage photo spots along Jalan Ahmad Yani.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect for families, history lovers, and photography enthusiasts.

🛍️ Discover Flavors and Finds at Pajak Ikan Lama

📝As soon as I walked into Pajak Ikan Lama, the air was thick with the scent of spices, textiles, and the unmistakable energy of haggling locals. The market is loud, colorful, and packed with surprises piles of batik fabrics, shimmering gold accessories, and vendors calling out their best offers. I stopped to try a fresh martabak mini 🥞, then wandered through narrow lanes lined with Chinese medicine shops, sari stores, and stalls selling Islamic prayer items. The crowd was a mix of locals and travelers, all soaking in the market’s old-world charm.

📖This historic market is one of the most popular shopping areas in Medan perfect for affordable finds, souvenirs, and experiencing the local pulse. Despite the name, it’s not a fish market anymore, but a treasure trove of culture and commerce.

📅 Best time to visit: Morning before noon
📍 How to get there: Walking distance from Medan City Hall or short Grab ride
💰 Cost: Free entrance, but bring cash for shopping 🛍️
💡 Pro Tips:
– Bargaining is expected, start at 50% of the asking price.
– Look for handmade songket and tenun fabrics for unique gifts.
– Stop by the nearby Tip Top Restaurant for a meal after shopping.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for adults and older travelers who enjoy shopping and cultural experiences.

🏞️ Relax in Nature at Taman Ahmad Yani

📝Taman Ahmad Yani was a breath of fresh air literally. After a day in the busy city streets, I found peace here among towering trees 🌳, chirping birds, and families picnicking on the grass. Joggers passed by, kids chased bubbles 🧒🎈, and couples lounged by the pond under shady palms. The park has wide walking paths, exercise equipment, and colorful flowers that brighten every corner. I bought an ice cream from a street vendor and just sat for a while, watching the laid-back rhythm of Medan life flow around me.

📖This public park in the heart of the city is a favorite local escape for relaxation, especially for families and morning joggers. It offers a greener side to Medan and is one of the most family-friendly places in Medan.

📅 Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
📍 How to get there: GrabBike or walk from Sun Plaza Mall
💰 Cost: Free
💡 Pro Tips:
– Great spot for a budget-friendly picnic with local snacks.
– Visit nearby Museum Perjuangan TNI for a quick history stop.
– Bring mosquito repellent if staying after sunset.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect for families with young kids, couples, or anyone seeking a relaxing stroll.

🏛️Recommended Iconic Landmark or Historical Site in Medan

🕌 Step into Grandeur at Masjid Raya Al-Mashun

📝As I walked through the grand gates of Masjid Raya Al-Mashun, I was instantly awestruck. The blend of Middle Eastern, Indian, and Spanish architecture was unlike anything I’d seen before. The domes shimmered in the sun, while intricate tile mosaics adorned the walls. Inside, it was calm and serene soft recitations of the Qur’an echoed gently as I removed my shoes and stepped onto the cool marble floor. The scent of sandalwood lingered, and a gentle breeze swept through the arched windows. Worshippers moved gracefully in prayer, while visitors quietly admired the grandeur.

📖Built in 1906, this is one of the most iconic landmarks in Medan a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and an active house of worship, often seen as the heart of the city’s spiritual life.

📅 Best time to visit: Late morning on weekdays
📍 How to get there: 10-minute GrabCar ride from Medan Station
💰 Cost: Free entry; small fee for sarong rental if needed
💡 Pro Tips:
– Dress modestly, cover shoulders and legs.
– Sarongs and scarves are available at the entrance.
– Visit outside prayer times for quieter exploration.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Ideal for families, couples, and respectful solo travelers; accessible for elderly.

🏛️ Journey Through Time at Maimun Palace

📝The moment I set foot in Maimun Palace, I felt like I had entered a royal fairytale. The yellow-gold façade gleamed in the sunlight, and the grand staircase invited me into a world of Deli Sultanate royalty. Inside, I wandered through regal halls adorned with vintage chandeliers, antique thrones, and silk drapes. The scent of polished wood and age-old fabric filled the air. Traditional Malay music played softly from a corner, adding to the palace's timeless charm. I tried on a traditional costume for photos an experience both fun and memorable! 📸👑

📖Built in 1888, Maimun Palace is one of the must-visit historical sites in Medan. It blends Malay, Islamic, Spanish, and Italian architectural influences and once served as the royal residence of the Sultanate of Deli.

📅 Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds
📍 How to get there: Easily accessible by GrabCar or becak from city center
💰 Cost: Rp10,000–Rp20,000; extra if you rent costumes
💡 Pro Tips:
– Rent traditional clothing for only Rp20,000 it’s worth it for the photos!
– Read the signage for a deeper understanding of royal history.
– Don't miss the gift shop with royal-themed souvenirs.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect for families and culture lovers; stairs present but manageable.

🏠 Uncover Medan’s Multicultural Past at Tjong A Fie Mansion

📝Stepping into Tjong A Fie Mansion felt like walking into a beautifully preserved time capsule. The air inside was cool and quiet, filled with the scent of aged teakwood. Intricately carved furniture, vibrant stained-glass windows, and antique Chinese porcelain told stories of a bygone era. I could hear the soft creak of wooden floors as I walked from room to room, imagining what life was like for one of Medan’s most influential Chinese magnates. A friendly guide shared tales of trade, harmony, and family, making the history come alive.

📖This 19th-century mansion was once home to Tjong A Fie, a Hakka merchant and philanthropist whose legacy shaped Medan’s growth. Today, it's one of the best landmarks in Medan for learning about the city’s diverse cultural roots.

📅 Best time to visit: Mid-morning or after lunch
📍 How to get there: Short walk from Kesawan or a GrabCar from anywhere in the city
💰 Cost: Rp35,000 with guide included
💡 Pro Tips:
– Join the guided tour and they share fascinating family stories.
– Take your time in the inner courtyard, a great photo spot!
– Don’t miss the mini museum inside for rare documents and relics.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for adults and teens; may be less engaging for very young kids.

🌿Recommended Park, Scenic Area, or Nature Spot in Medan

🌿 Escape to Serenity at Taman Ahmad Yani

📝I stepped into Taman Ahmad Yani and immediately felt the stress of the city melt away. The gentle rustling of leaves overhead, birds chirping in the canopy, and the distant hum of traffic reminded me I was still in Medan but in a peaceful bubble. I strolled under shady trees while locals jogged or chatted on benches. A group of children laughed near the playground, and the smell of freshly cut grass mixed with fried snacks from nearby vendors. I paused at the central monument, soaking in the quiet dignity of the place.

📖Located in the heart of the city, this is one of the most accessible parks in Medan, perfect for a casual stroll, morning jog, or family outing. It’s not vast, but its clean paths and leafy surroundings make it a favorite for locals.

📅 Best time to visit: Early morning or just before sunset
📍 How to get there: Walkable from Merdeka Walk or a short Grab ride from anywhere central
💰 Cost: Free
💡 Pro Tips:
– Visit in the early morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
– Bring snacks or grab street food from nearby stalls.
– Great spot for jogging or a slow afternoon read under the trees.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Ideal for families, couples, and seniors; stroller-friendly with shaded benches.

🌺 Find Calm at Taman Cadika Pramuka

📝Wandering into Taman Cadika Pramuka felt like discovering a quiet retreat in the middle of bustling Medan. I walked along winding trails shaded by towering trees, hearing the soft crunch of gravel beneath my feet. The air smelled of damp earth and flowering plants, and butterflies fluttered past as I admired the blooming hibiscus bushes. A pond shimmered in the midday sun, with a family feeding fish nearby. Everything felt slow, easy, and perfectly peaceful.

📖Located in the Johor area, this is one of Medan’s lesser-known green spaces, offering a large open area for recreation and relaxing strolls, with fewer crowds than city-center parks.

📅 Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for shade and soft light
📍 How to get there: 15–20 minutes by GrabCar from Medan city center
💰 Cost: Free
💡 Pro Tips:
– Bring your own mat and enjoy a picnic under the trees.
– Look for the small bridge—it’s a charming photo spot.
– The open field is great for flying kites or playing catch.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Very family-friendly; wide spaces, playgrounds, and safe walking paths.

🌳 Breathe Deep at Taman Teladan

📝As soon as I entered Taman Teladan, I felt like I could finally take a deep breath. The scent of pine and damp soil lingered in the air while joggers glided past and teens played basketball in the nearby court. I found a quiet bench near a line of trees where birds chirped in chorus. The sun filtered gently through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground. I watched as kids practiced rollerblading and families shared snacks under shaded gazebos. It felt like a true community hangout.

📖This well-maintained park is one of the best parks in Medan for active outings, featuring a jogging track, playground, and sports facilities. It’s popular among locals for weekend family fun or evening exercise.

📅 Best time to visit: Weekend mornings for local vibe, or weekday evenings
📍 How to get there: Easily reached by Grab or walk from Medan Teladan Stadium
💰 Cost: Free
💡 Pro Tips:
– Bring your sports gear, there’s space to play and exercise.
– The jogging track is smooth and shaded, perfect for running.
– Visit during sunset for great light and people-watching.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Excellent for families, teens, and active travelers; playground and flat paths for strollers.

🌃Recommended Nightlife Area or Entertainment Street in Medan

🌃 Night Buzz at Kesawan Square

📝As the sun dipped below the Medan skyline, Kesawan Square came alive. Neon lights blinked across colonial buildings, and the street filled with sizzling sounds and the tempting aroma of grilled satay, nasi goreng, and martabak. Live musicians strummed guitars while groups of friends laughed over late-night snacks on plastic stools. I wandered from one vendor to the next, trying everything from spicy bakso to fresh fruit juices. The crowd was lively but relaxed, everyone soaking in the warm night air, the flavors, and the friendly chatter. It felt like the perfect mix of street food heaven and local nightlife.

📖One of the best-known nightlife spots in Medan, Kesawan Square blends delicious street food with a casual, energetic vibe. Locals and travelers mingle here nightly for cheap eats and laid-back evening fun.

📅 Best time to visit: Weekends after 7pm
📍 How to get there: Walkable from Medan Train Station or a short Grab ride from city center
💰 Cost: Free to explore; drinks and meals vary by venue
💡 Pro Tips:
– Try the martabak manis, it's a sweet street food.
– Arrive early for the best seats near the main stage or music spots.
– Perfect place to sample local dishes affordably.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for families early in the evening; gets crowded later, so better for adults after 9pm.

🎶 Chill Nights at Jalan Dr. Mansyur

📝The moment I turned into Jalan Dr. Mansyur, I could feel the youthful pulse of Medan’s nightlife. Music spilled out of cafes and mini bars, some blasting pop, others offering live acoustic sets. The street smelled of roasted coffee beans and smoky skewers from roadside stalls. Students lounged at open-air coffee spots, while couples sipped mocktails under fairy lights. I ducked into a cozy live music café where a local band played indie covers, and the vibe was laid-back yet buzzing with life. It was the kind of night where you didn’t need a plan, just follow the lights and sounds.

📖This area is popular with university students and young locals, known for its casual hangouts, coffee shops, and indie bar scene. A perfect spot for relaxed nights and spontaneous meetups.

📅 Best time to visit: Weeknights and weekends after 7pm
📍 How to get there: 10–15 minutes by Grab from central Medan
💰 Cost: Free to explore; drinks and food from IDR 20,000 up
💡 Pro Tips:
– Check out Soho or Coffee Cangkir for great ambiance and live music.
– Come on a weekday if you prefer a quieter vibe.
– Parking can be tight—better to take a ride-hailing app.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 More suited for adults and young couples; not ideal for families with young kids.

🍹 Vibe with Style at Ring Road City Walks

📝Walking into Ring Road City Walks felt like entering a trendy nightlife bubble. Neon signs lit up a sleek row of modern restaurants, rooftop bars, and dessert cafes. I joined a group of friends for cocktails at a rooftop lounge, where we could see the city lights twinkling in the distance. Downstairs, a DJ spun upbeat mixes, and diners spilled onto patios, sharing laughter over Korean BBQ and fusion food. The vibe was urban, clean, and slightly upscale perfect for dressed-up nights or late dinners with a view.

📖This modern lifestyle complex is one of Medan’s newer nightlife destinations, drawing a slightly upscale crowd looking for stylish dining, lounges, and vibrant weekend energy.

📅 Best time to visit: Friday and Saturday nights after 8pm
📍 How to get there: About 20 minutes by Grab from central Medan
💰 Cost: Free to explore; dining and drinks from IDR 40,000+
💡 Pro Tips:
– Book ahead if you want a rooftop table on weekends.
– Perfect spot for a date night or group celebration.
– Try local-fusion cocktails at Hey Beach Club or Sky Bar.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for adults and couples; not ideal for small children due to crowd and music.

🛍️Recommended Market, Shopping Street, or Shopping District in Medan

🛍️ Hunt for Finds at Pajak Ikan Lama

📝As I wandered into Pajak Ikan Lama, the vibrant hum of Medan’s oldest market hit me immediately. Narrow alleys packed with stalls offered everything from batik fabrics and imitation handbags to antique jewelry and traditional snacks. The air smelled of spices and freshly brewed kopi, with friendly vendors calling out their best prices in rapid Bahasa. I found myself running my fingers over delicate songket cloth and bargaining for souvenirs like wooden carvings and vintage postcards. It was a chaotic blend of culture, commerce, and character and I absolutely loved it.

📖One of the most iconic shopping areas in Medan, Pajak Ikan Lama combines old-school market charm with cultural treasures. It’s a must-visit for travelers hunting for affordable keepsakes and local color.

📅 Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds
📍 How to get there: Walkable from Medan Train Station; 5 minutes by Grab from city center
💰 Cost: Free to explore; shopping and food prices vary
💡 Pro Tips:
– Bring cash and bargain gently for the best deals.
– Don’t miss the alley with vintage fashion and retro watches.
– Try the local “kue lapis” (layer cake) for a tasty souvenir.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly with wide-enough paths for strollers, but can get crowded after noon.

🧢 Urban Style at Sun Plaza

📝From the moment I stepped into Sun Plaza, I was greeted by cool air-conditioning, glossy storefronts, and the buzz of young shoppers browsing global brands. This is where Medan’s modern vibe really shines. I browsed through fashion outlets like H&M and Pull & Bear, paused for an iced coffee, and then headed upstairs to explore Indonesian fashion labels and accessories. The food court smelled of rich rendang and Korean fried chicken, with laughter echoing from family tables nearby. It was the perfect mix of comfort and trendiness for a relaxed shopping day.

📖As one of the top shopping malls in Medan, Sun Plaza is popular for its wide brand selection, clean layout, and modern atmosphere. It’s a favorite for both locals and travelers looking for quality shopping in comfort.

📅 Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons or early evenings
📍 How to get there: 10-minute Grab ride from central Medan
💰 Cost: Free to explore; shopping and food prices vary
💡 Pro Tips:
– Great rooftop restaurants for city views.
– Try the local food stalls on the lower ground level.
– Ideal for escaping midday heat while shopping.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Very family-friendly with elevators, wide walkways, kids’ play area, and plenty of dining options.

🧶 Explore Local Treasures at Pasar Petisah

📝Stepping into Pasar Petisah was like walking into a treasure trove of local life. The sounds of chatter and bargaining filled the air as vendors proudly showed off their batik collections, Muslim fashion, and glittering accessories. I took my time browsing the upper floors for textiles, then wandered downstairs to sample Medan-style fried snacks and sweet drinks. The colors, scents, and textures were overwhelming in the best way it was raw, real, and deeply local. Perfect for curious explorers who want to experience shopping in Medan beyond the malls.

📖A cornerstone of local shopping areas in Medan, Pasar Petisah offers a lively, authentic market experience with a strong focus on local goods and textiles. It's a cultural and commercial hotspot.

📅 Best time to visit: Morning to early afternoon, weekdays preferred
📍 How to get there: Easily reachable by Grab; 10 minutes from central Medan
💰 Cost: Free to explore; shopping and food prices vary
💡 Pro Tips:
– Look upstairs for the best fabric deals.
– Always bring small bills for bargaining.
– Try the traditional “es campur” near the entrance for a cooling treat.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly but best with older kids or teens due to stairs and tight walkways.

Let’s Go To Medan

What really made Medan unforgettable for me wasn’t just the big attractions, it was the little moments in its character-filled neighborhoods and hidden local gems. From smoky street food stalls in Petisah to the colonial charm around Kesawan, the city has this raw, real energy that keeps pulling you in. Sure, the traffic can be a bit hectic and the midday heat intense, but honestly, that’s all part of the adventure. Medan rewards slow exploration with unexpected discoveries down quiet alleys and the friendliest locals you’ll meet. If you're starting to plan, now’s a great time. There are amazing discounts on flights to Medan and plenty of deals on hotels in Medan too. If you’re thinking of going, check out the latest travel promotions for Medan you might just find the perfect deal. Hope you fall for the city like I did. Happy travels! ✈️🌆