Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Medan, Indonesia

The city of Medan in North Sumatra attracts numerous visitors as it serves as the primary access point to breathtaking nearby attractions such as Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang. However, many tourists often opt to stay only for a night and rush to leave, mistakenly perceiving it as just another large city in Indonesia. Such assumptions overlook the allure of Medan, which draws a significant domestic tourist population who appreciate its distinct charms and culinary excellence, recognized as some of the finest in the country.

The culinary scene in Medan is a significant attraction, catering to a variety of tastes and ensuring that no visitor goes hungry. Most of the city’s top attractions are centered around its diverse food offerings. Visitors can join a guided food tour or choose to explore independently, discovering the vibrant sights, aromas, and flavors that define Medan. Beyond the eateries, the city’s rich cultural diversity is evident in its attractions, including its strong Tamil influences, a significant Chinese community, and the indigenous Batak people who call Medan home.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Medan:

1. Tour Tjong A Fie Mansion

Visitors familiar with the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion in Penang, Malaysia may find Tjong A Fie Mansion reminiscent, as Tjong A Fie was a relative of Cheong Fatt Tze, which explains the architectural similarities. This mansion is among the top attractions in Medan, offering insights into life in the city during the early 20th century.

Guided tours of the mansion last approximately an hour, during which knowledgeable guides will share the historical context of the site. Be sure to admire the intricately designed decor and the beautiful garden that the mansion is renowned for.

2. Have a Bowl of Soup at Soto Kesawan

Soto Kesawan exemplifies why tourists flock to Medan for its food and stands out as one of the city’s most celebrated eateries. Despite its modest setup, more akin to a small shop with limited seating, it serves one of Medan’s signature dishes known as Soto Medan.

This dish consists of a rich coconut milk-based soup enriched with shredded chicken or prawns, accompanied by crunchy bean sprouts and potato cakes. The establishment closes around 4 pm, so it is advisable to arrive early to enjoy this delectable dish.

Given its proximity to Tjong A Fie Mansion, visiting both attractions in succession is recommended.

3. Admire Mesjid Raya Al Mashun

Mesjid Raya Al Mashun, commonly known as Mesjid Raya, serves as Medan’s principal mosque and is celebrated for its architectural beauty. Constructed with materials sourced from abroad, including Italian marble, the mosque features intricately detailed elements.

Visitors can explore the mosque outside of designated prayer times, with propriety in dress expected. Look out for the stunning stained glass and the emerald green tiles, crowned by elegant, dark domes.

4. Have Lunch at Tip Top Restaurant

Conveniently situated across from Tjong A Fie Mansion, Tip Top Restaurant is a long-established institution in Medan, having opened its doors in 1934. The establishment retains much of its colonial architectural charm, with a menu featuring both Indonesian and international cuisine, alongside an in-house ice cream parlor and bakery renowned for its delicious cakes.

The primary attraction remains the restaurant’s nostalgic environment, allowing diners to experience a slice of Medan’s history.

5. Dress Up at Istana Maimun

Istana Maimun, the royal palace of the Sultanate of Deli, is a significant landmark in Medan. Portions of the palace have been opened to the public, transformed into a museum featuring displays that illuminate the history of the royal family, including the throne room and collections of historical garments.

A notable feature is the opportunity for visitors to don traditional attire for photographs within the throne room, while the lush grounds surrounding the palace invite leisurely walks.

6. Have Dinner at Merdeka Walk

Known for its culinary diversity, Medan offers an excellent dining option at Merdeka Walk. This promenade is lined with an array of restaurants and food stalls, making it an ideal location for groups where individual preferences may vary.

Visitors can indulge in a wide range of options including noodle dishes, soups, rice, curries, fresh juices, and delightful desserts.

7. Visit the Museum of North Sumatra

The Museum of North Sumatra is a premier destination for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the region’s history and culture. Exhibits chronicle various historical eras pertaining to North Sumatra, encompassing Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim influences, and the Dutch colonial period.

Additionally, the museum features collections of ancient weaponry, textiles, agricultural tools, sculptures, and ornately carved wooden coffins fashioned like dragons, providing a comprehensive overview of the area’s rich heritage.

8. Enjoy a Feast at Garuda Restaurant

For authentic culinary experiences in Medan, Garuda Restaurant is an excellent choice. This chain, with several locations throughout the city, specializes in Nasi Padang or ‘Padang Rice’. The dining experience involves the staff presenting an array of approximately 20 small dishes encompassing curries, fish, vegetables, and sauces, accompanied by steamed rice.

Guests only pay for the food they consume, allowing for selective sampling of the dishes. Some standout options include the spicy rendang beef curry, potato cakes, and chili-covered eggplant—making it one of the premier dining experiences in Medan.

9. Walk Around Kampung Keling

Kampung Keling represents the Tamil heritage of Medan and offers a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of India. This neighborhood is filled with shops selling colorful saris and Indian jewelry, complemented by an assortment of Indian restaurants serving traditional cuisine.

The area is also home to the Sri Mariamman Temple, built in 1884, characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate carvings, which are unique to the Medan landscape.

10. Visit Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni

Commonly referred to as Our Lady of Good Health Church, Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni, established in 2005, showcases an intriguing architectural style resembling that of an Indian temple, offering a unique witness of Medan’s cultural diversity. The church is adorned with elaborate furnishings and vibrant effigies.

11. Have Dinner at Cahaya Baru

Cahaya Baru, situated in Kampung Keling, ranks among the most notable dining establishments in Medan. This casual eatery specializes in offering authentic Indian cuisine at reasonable prices, making it an ideal choice for trying traditional curries and dhal.

For a comprehensive sampling, patrons might opt for the tali, presented on a partitioned metal tray containing an assortment of curries, rice, and vegetable dishes. Uniquely, Cahaya Baru also serves alcohol, allowing diners to enjoy a beer alongside their meal, or opt for refreshing juices or lassi.

12. Visit Medan Post Office

Located in the heart of the city, Medan Post Office is one of the area’s most iconic structures. Constructed in 1911 during the Dutch colonial era, this building exemplifies traditional colonial architecture, featuring a prominent dome and characteristic half-circle windows.

13. Visit Vihara Maha Maitreya

Vihara Maha Maitreya is among the largest Buddhist temples in Indonesia and provides a tranquil environment for exploring Medan’s religious landmarks. The temple holds significant value for the local Buddhist community while also being welcoming to visitors.

Be sure to appreciate the beautiful pools throughout the temple grounds, which also includes a canteen where delicious vegetarian meals are available—making lunchtime visits particularly enjoyable.

14. Explore Rahmat Gallery

Rahmat Gallery stands out as one of Medan’s more unconventional attractions, appealing to those interested in unique experiences. The gallery is distinguished by its diverse collection of preserved animals, making it a must-see for taxidermy enthusiasts.

Additionally, it serves as an educational opportunity to learn about various species endemic to Indonesia.

15. Enjoy the Nightlife at Cafe Raya

Cafe Raya is a well-established favorite in Medan, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a relaxing spot to enjoy a few drinks. Unlike many cafes in the city, it serves alcoholic beverages, making it particularly popular among expatriates and visitors looking for a tranquil refuge from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Situated on Jalan SM Raja in the city center, the cafe offers a variety of international dishes along with simple Indonesian noodles and fried rice, making it a convenient choice for those staying in nearby hotels or guesthouses.