Recommended Souvenir For You 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!

🧧Iconic Local Souvenir from Medan

🧵 Ulos: The Soulful Weave of North Sumatra

(Source: anekatempatwisata.com)

🛍️As I wandered through the vibrant stalls of Pasar Seni in Medan, my eyes were instantly drawn to a wall draped in stunning woven fabrics. One particular ulos, deep crimson with golden thread work, caught my attention. An older Batak woman sat behind the display, her fingers deftly working on another piece. She told me this ulos was handwoven by her mother, using patterns passed down through generations. Holding it, I felt like I was touching a story. I couldn’t leave without it. It felt like carrying a piece of North Sumatra’s heart home with me.

📖Ulos is the traditional handwoven cloth of the Batak people and one of the most iconic souvenirs from Medan. More than just fabric, it symbolizes blessings, protection, and unity given during weddings, births, and other life milestones. This authentic keepsake from Medan is rich with cultural meaning and artistry.

🎁Perfect for those who cherish meaningful travel mementos, ulos adds heritage to your home decor or wardrobe. Lightweight and foldable, it’s also a practical yet soulful gift.

📍 Where to buy: Pasar Seni Medan or Ulos Gallery in Jalan Sisingamangaraja
💰 Cost: Around Rp150,000–Rp500,000 depending on quality; often comes gift-wrapped
💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask if it’s handwoven (tenun tangan) for authenticity
• Higher thread counts mean better quality
• Avoid machine-printed versions, they’re common but lack tradition

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Kids love the bright colors and can pick smaller scarves or headbands. It's safe, soft, and doubles as a memory-maker.

🥜 Bika Ambon: The Spongy Sweet You Can’t Forget

🛍️I first tasted Bika Ambon just outside the Bika Ambon Zulaikha shop its buttery scent led me in like a cartoon character floating on aroma trails. Locals queued patiently, and I soon learned why. Fresh out of the oven, the golden, bouncy cake was warm and slightly chewy with honeyed sweetness. The vendor explained how it takes hours to ferment the batter just right. I bought a box and then another. Let’s just say only one made it back to the hotel!

📖Despite its name, Bika Ambon is a beloved Medan specialty and a must-buy souvenir in Medan. Made from tapioca flour, eggs, and coconut milk, this honeycomb-textured cake is both nostalgic and festive often served during special occasions and holidays.

🎁Light, sweet, and halal-friendly, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family back home. Its unique texture makes it unforgettable, even for seasoned dessert lovers.

📍 Where to buy: Bika Ambon Zulaikha, Jalan Mojopahit No.62, Medan
💰 Cost: Around Rp50,000–Rp80,000 per box; usually comes in sealed boxes
💡 Pro Tips:

• Always buy fresh; ask for today’s batch
• Travel with it within 2–3 days or freeze for longer shelf life
• Try the pandan version for a twist

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the squishy texture and mild sweetness. Easy to carry and non-messy, ideal for family travels.

💍 Kain Songket Deli: Medan’s Royal Textile Treasure

🛍️While visiting the Maimun Palace, I stumbled into a tiny boutique across the street with dazzling fabric on display. A piece of shimmering gold-and-green kain songket practically called out to me. The shop owner told me it was once reserved for royalty in the Deli Sultanate. Woven with metallic threads and rich patterns, it felt too special to pass up. It now lives framed on my wall as a glittering reminder of Medan’s regal roots.

📖Kain Songket Deli is a traditional brocade textile, woven with gold or silver thread, once worn by sultans and nobles. As one of the most elegant traditional gifts in Medan, it symbolizes status, celebration, and beauty. It’s often used for weddings and ceremonies.

🎁Ideal for interior decorators, fashion lovers, or anyone who appreciates heritage textiles. Whether worn or displayed, it brings a royal touch to modern spaces.

📍 Where to buy: Rumah Songket Medan, Jalan Brigjend Katamso
💰 Cost: Around Rp300,000–Rp1,000,000; comes wrapped or boxed for gifting
💡 Pro Tips:

• Check if it’s handwoven for value
• Ask about thread type, real gold thread is rare and pricey
• Roll instead of fold to prevent creasing

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, especially for teens interested in fashion or crafts. Smaller accessories like songket pouches make great kids’ gifts.

🖐️Handcrafted or Artisan Item from Medan

🪵 Discover the Art of Batak Wood Carving

🛍️Tucked in a quiet corner of the Tomok Village market near Lake Toba, I found a small wooden stall filled with intricate figurines and ornaments. The scent of freshly carved wood lingered in the air as I watched an artisan shape a miniature Singa, a Batak protective spirit right before my eyes. He shared stories of how each symbol wards off bad luck and brings strength. Running my fingers over the deep grooves and patterns, I could feel the soul of North Sumatra carved into every piece.

🎨Batak wood carving is a proud tradition in North Sumatra, often featuring ancestral motifs and protective symbols. These handmade crafts in Medan and its surrounding villages reflect spiritual beliefs and tribal identity. They’re perfect examples of authentic handcrafted gifts in Medan.

🎁These carvings make for powerful, story-rich decor pieces. They’re lightweight, meaningful, and ideal for anyone passionate about indigenous art.

📍 Where to buy: Tomok Craft Market on Samosir Island or Medan’s Pasar Rame
💰 Cost: Varies by complexity; simple pieces from Rp50,000, custom orders available
💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask for the meaning of each symbol
• Best visited in the morning for artisan interactions
• Wrap in clothes to cushion during travel

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Kids are fascinated by the animal carvings and can choose their own totem. It’s a fun way to learn about Batak folklore.

🧵 Woven Rattan Baskets: Functional Art from Medan

🛍️I discovered these stunning woven rattan baskets in a small roadside workshop near Tanjung Morawa, just outside Medan. The air was thick with the scent of dried reeds, and I watched a mother and daughter team twist, knot, and weave under a thatched roof. They smiled as they explained how each basket is made entirely by hand, using local rattan harvested from the nearby forest. I picked a lidded box with floral patterns it felt like carrying a piece of their daily life back home.

🎨Rattan weaving is a sustainable and long-standing tradition in North Sumatra. These handmade souvenirs from Medan are both decorative and practical, used locally for storing food or household items. Each piece reflects the craftsmanship and eco-conscious spirit of the region.

🎁Stylish yet functional, these baskets make great home organizers or gift containers. They suit travelers who value sustainability and minimalism.

📍 Where to buy: Tanjung Morawa village cooperatives or Medan Craft Center
💰 Cost: Varies by complexity; simple pieces from Rp40,000, custom orders available
💡 Pro Tips:

• Check for smooth weaving and tight finishes
• Ask about natural dyes or custom patterns
• Avoid getting it wet to preserve longevity

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Kids can use them to store toys or treasure finds. Some workshops even let kids try basic weaving.

🎨 Hand-Painted Batak Masks: Faces of Folklore

(Source: Etsy.com)

🛍️While exploring the art stalls along Jalan Ahmad Yani in Medan’s old town, I came across a display of hand-painted wooden masks. The colors were electric reds, blues, and golds and each face seemed to tell a story. The artist, Pak Andi, invited me to his tiny studio behind the stall and showed how he uses natural pigments and traditional Batak legends as inspiration. I watched him finish a mask of Raja Uti, a legendary Batak king, and knew I had to bring one home.

🎨These masks are rooted in Batak mythology and used in cultural dances or storytelling rituals. As local artisan goods from Medan, they combine performance art with spiritual symbolism, making them some of the most unique handcrafted souvenirs in Medan.

🎁These make bold wall art or conversation pieces, especially for collectors of ethnic or theatrical design. They’re rare, vibrant, and deeply expressive.

📍 Where to buy: Art stalls on Jalan Ahmad Yani or Toba Gallery in Medan
💰 Cost: Varies by complexity; simple pieces from Rp100,000, custom orders available
💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask the artist about the story behind the mask
• Some shops offer personalization with your name or date
• Use bubble wrap or cloth for safe transport

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes! Kids love expressive faces and bright colors. Some studios even let kids paint their own mini masks.

🍬Snack or Edible Gift from Medan

🍌 A Bite of Medan’s Icon: Bika Ambon

🍴Wandering through Medan’s Merdeka Walk, I was drawn to a tiny bakery by the warm, sweet scent wafting through the air. Rows of golden, honeycombed cakes lined the shelves. This was my first encounter with Bika Ambon. I took a bite of the pandan-flavored one, and it was love at first chew: springy, slightly chewy, with a caramelized crust and rich coconut aroma. My travel buddy devoured two in one go! We ended up buying a whole box to snack on during the road trip and another to bring home.

📖Despite its name, Bika Ambon is proudly Medanese. This traditional cake is made from tapioca flour, coconut milk, and natural flavorings like pandan or durian. As one of the best edible gifts from Medan, it’s a staple at family gatherings and festive events.

🎁Lightweight and packed with flavor, Bika Ambon is perfect for sweet-toothed travelers and makes a delightful gift for loved ones back home.

📍 Where to buy: Zulaikha Bika Ambon or Majestik Cake Shop, Medan
💰 Cost: Around Rp50,000 per pack; comes in travel-safe wrapping or gift boxes
💡 Pro Tips:

• Try the durian and cheese variants
• Best consumed within 3–4 days
• Some shops offer free samples before you buy

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Definitely! Kids enjoy the pandan and chocolate flavors. It’s soft, non-messy, and allergy-friendly for most diets.

🍚 Crunch into Medan’s Favorite Snack: Keripik Sanjai

🍴I stumbled upon keripik sanjai at a local pasar in Medan, where a vendor was tossing freshly fried cassava chips into a big bowl of spicy palm sugar glaze. I tried one and immediately felt that fiery-sweet combo dance on my tongue—crispy, bold, and unforgettable. I couldn’t stop at one! Locals nearby chuckled as I fanned my mouth from the heat. Naturally, I packed several vacuum-sealed bags to bring back home.

📖Originally from Bukittinggi but wildly popular in Medan, these spicy cassava chips are coated in a thick caramelized chili sauce. A go-to snack to buy in Medan, it’s beloved for its addictive crunch and kick.

🎁Perfect for adventurous palates and snackers who love heat. The packaging is sturdy, and it keeps well during travel.

📍 Where to buy: Pasar Petisah or Oleh-Oleh Andalas stores
💰 Cost: Around Rp35,000 per pack; tightly sealed and travel-ready
💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask for “balado” flavor for maximum spice
• Pairs great with rice or beer
• Check the expiry date, best within 1 month

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Teens love the spice challenge, but younger kids might prefer the plain or sweet versions. Always check the chili level!

🥜 Traditional Treat with a Twist: Kacang Sihobuk

(Source: Shopee.co.id)

🍴In a roadside stall on the way to Lake Toba, I discovered kacang Sihobuk, a local peanut snack roasted in hot sand. The vendor handed me a warm paper cone of it crunchy, savory, and slightly smoky. I loved how every bite had a rustic charm, and my travel partner kept sneaking extra handfuls! It was so addictive we had to stop again on our way back to Medan to buy more.

📖Originating from Sihobuk village near Tarutung, these peanuts are roasted traditionally using hot volcanic sand. They're now a classic snack gift from Medan, especially for those visiting Lake Toba.

🎁It’s simple, satisfying, and doesn’t spoil easily ideal for road trips or long flights. Packed with protein and nostalgia!

📍 Where to buy: Oleh-Oleh Khas Medan shops or souvenir stalls near Lake Toba
💰 Cost: Around Rp25,000 per pack; comes in resealable travel pouches
💡 Pro Tips:

• Choose vacuum-packed versions for freshness
• Ask for the “original” or “garlic” flavor
• Great for sharing at the office or with family

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Crunchy fun for all ages, and safe from common allergens (check label for additives).

🧢Fashion Item or Local Brand in Medan

🧕 Discover Modern Modestwear with Batik Hijab Medan

👜While exploring the boutiques around Jalan Rahmadsyah in Medan, I stumbled upon a chic little shop with pastel batik scarves fluttering in the breeze. The soft shimmer of the fabric caught my eye it was a modern hijab made with local batik tulis motifs. I stepped in and was warmly greeted by the owner, who explained how each pattern told a story of North Sumatra’s nature and culture. I tried one on and instantly loved how light and breathable it felt, with elegant patterns that stood out without being loud. It became my go-to scarf for the rest of the trip!

📖This modest fashion staple blends traditional Indonesian textile heritage with contemporary cuts and colors. As a highlight of local fashion in Medan, these hijabs often feature Sumatra-inspired batik patterns, hand-dyed by local artisans.

🎁It’s lightweight, respectful of culture, and effortlessly elegant perfect for fashion-forward Muslimah travelers or as a thoughtful gift.

📍 Where to buy: Butik Citra Hijab Medan or Batik Deli stores
💰 Cost: Prices range from Rp75,000–Rp250,000; many shops offer Asian-fit sizes and customizations
💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask for limited-edition patterns or matching outfit sets
• Visit in the morning for best stock
• Some boutiques offer name embroidery for gifts

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, many shops carry hijabs for kids, mommy-and-me sets, and affordable accessories like brooches or inner caps.

👕 Urban Pride on a Tee: Medan Clothing Co. Streetwear

👜I found this gem while café-hopping near Jalan Dr. Mansyur runs an edgy, graffiti-tagged shop called Medan Clothing Co. A rack of locally designed t-shirts caught my eye, especially one with a cool “Anak Medan” typography in bold black and red. It was soft, perfectly cut, and had that effortlessly cool street vibe. The staff told me each piece celebrates Medan slang, subculture, or street scenes. I wore it to dinner that night and got compliments from locals who appreciated the nod to their city!

📖This independent brand represents the bold, urban pulse of North Sumatra. Fusing local pride with global streetwear aesthetics, it’s a staple for anyone diving into fashion shopping in Medan.

🎁It’s bold, wearable, and makes a perfect street-style souvenir clothing from Medan. Great for teens and twenty-somethings wanting to rep their trip.

📍 Where to buy: Medan Clothing District near Jalan Iskandar Muda
💰 Cost: Prices range from Rp100,000–Rp300,000; many shops offer Asian-fit sizes and customizations
💡 Pro Tips:

• Look for collab tees with local artists
• Fitting rooms available in most stores
• Shops often have weekend promo bundles

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Totally! Sizes for teens and adults are common, and simple graphic tees make great gifts for older kids or siblings.

🧣 Traditional Meets Trendy with Ulos-Inspired Scarves

👜Tucked inside a handicraft collective in Medan Mall, I came across a display of beautifully woven scarves rich with maroon, black, and gold threads. A friendly weaver explained that these pieces were inspired by the Ulos, the sacred cloth of the Batak people. I picked up a scarf and couldn’t stop running my fingers over the intricate textures. It was lightweight yet full of history. I bought one to wear as a wrap during cool evenings and another as a gift for my mom.

📖While traditional Ulos is ceremonial, these reinterpretations are made for daily wear, using lighter cotton and more versatile designs. A meaningful find in fashion shopping in Medan, they celebrate local identity with wearable ease.

🎁Perfect for travelers who want style with cultural roots. It’s fashionable, respectful, and makes a great gift for parents or colleagues.

📍 Where to buy: Medan Mall Handicraft Collective or Dekranasda Medan
💰 Cost: Prices range from Rp85,000–Rp200,000; many shops offer Asian-fit sizes and customizations
💡 Pro Tips:

• Ask about the story behind the pattern
• Some stores include a small info card with cultural meaning
• Scarves roll up easily for luggage and make elegant gifts

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, look for smaller scarves for kids or gift sets for the whole family. A great storytelling item for little ones interested in other cultures.

🛒Shopping Street or Market in Medan

🛍️ Treasure Hunting at Pajak Ikan Lama Market

🛍️The moment I stepped into Pajak Ikan Lama, I was surrounded by a chorus of friendly haggling and the earthy aroma of herbs and spices. Tucked in Medan’s Chinatown, this market is a labyrinth of history and tradition. I wandered past stalls overflowing with vintage batik fabrics, Chinese herbal teas, old-school kitchenware, and glimmering trinkets. A smiling vendor handed me a sample of dried mango, sweet, tangy, irresistible and I instantly bought a few packs to take home. The shop next door had retro enamel cups that brought back childhood memories.

📖One of the oldest local markets in Medan, Pajak Ikan Lama is a hidden gem for anyone who loves vintage finds and cultural oddities. It’s a must for shopping in Medan, known for everything from old coins and collectibles to local dried snacks and traditional herbs.

🎁Perfect for travelers who enjoy digging through history, love unique souvenirs, and want a glimpse into Medan’s multicultural past.

📍 Where to find: Jalan Perniagaan, near Medan Station and Merdeka Walk
💰 Cost: Varies widely; bargaining is common in markets, fixed prices in retail stores
💡 Pro Tips:

• Visit in the morning for the best finds
• Bring cash, many stalls don’t accept cards
• Pair your visit with lunch at nearby Kesawan area

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
It’s stroller-friendly in parts, but narrow alleys can be tricky. Kids will enjoy quirky old toys and snack samples.

🛒 Fashion and Food Finds at Pasar Petisah

🛍️Pasar Petisah was buzzing with life from the moment I arrived. The ground floor is a lively maze of fresh produce and snacks, but upstairs is where the fashion magic happens. From racks of Muslimwear and colorful kebaya to trendy bags and statement jewelry, it’s a local fashionista’s dream. I ended up buying a matching batik skirt and scarf set for a fraction of the price I’d expected. The friendly vendor even helped me style it!

📖This iconic market is a cornerstone of shopping in Medan. Known for its affordable apparel, accessories, and delicious snacks, it’s where locals go for everything from daily essentials to festive outfits.

🎁Great for travelers looking to stretch their budget especially teens, moms, or those wanting to score stylish, affordable outfits and souvenirs.

📍 Where to find: Jalan Kota Baru, near Thamrin Plaza and Sun Plaza
💰 Cost: Varies widely; bargaining is common in markets, fixed prices in retail stores
💡 Pro Tips:

• Head to the second floor for fashion deals
• Ask locals which stalls are known for quality
• Some vendors offer simple tailoring or alterations

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, wide walkways, snack stalls for kids, and lots of affordable options for all ages

🛍️ Exploring Culture and Crafts at Tjong A Fie Street Market

🛍️I stumbled upon this charming weekend market while visiting the Tjong A Fie Mansion. Lined with stalls selling handmade crafts, woven bags, and quirky home décor, it felt like a blend of heritage and creativity. A Batak artisan showed me how she weaves ulos fabric, and I ended up buying a handwoven table runner as a keepsake. Live acoustic music added to the friendly, laid-back vibe.

📖Held near one of Medan’s most famous landmarks, this pop-up style market blends history and modern creativity. It’s perfect for shopping in Medan if you're into crafts, sustainable fashion, and local artistry.

🎁This is for travelers who love handmade goods with a story. You’ll find everything from artisanal snacks to ethically made gifts.

📍 Where to find: Jalan Ahmad Yani, in front of Tjong A Fie Mansion
💰 Cost: Varies widely; bargaining is common in markets, fixed prices in retail stalls
💡 Pro Tips:

• Best visited on weekends or during cultural festivals
• Support small artisans, ask about their craft stories
• Grab a coffee at a nearby heritage café

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Definitely, live music, snack carts, and colorful crafts make it a relaxed outing for families.

Lets Go To Medan!

Some of my favorite travel memories from Medan are wrapped up in the little things I brought home🧣 handwoven ulos textiles, ☕ quirky enamel mugs from Pajak Ikan Lama, and 🍍 that delicious dried mango I still dream about. Each one tells a story and brings back the energy, culture, and flavors of the city. Sure, navigating the markets with limited Bahasa and a backpack already bursting at the seams was a bit of a juggling act 🎒but honestly, that’s part of the fun. Medan’s shopping streets pulse with life 🌆, from historic alleys to craft-filled weekend pop-ups, and every corner holds a surprise. If Medan’s calling to you, check out ✈️ flights to Medan and keep an eye on 💸 travel promotions for Medan you might just find the perfect deal. And with so many cozy, central 🏨 hotels in Medan, you’ll have the ideal base for exploring. Can’t wait for you to experience the magic. I know you’ll come home with your own bag of treasures. 😊