Bandung is a popular place in Indonesia and to travelers in Java, especially. There are many things to do in Bandung, and it is not short of attractions to see. Many locals will recommend going there for shopping, food and refreshing respite. It is a popular weekend destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Jakarta. Many travelers would say they have their best Indonesian experience here.
Here the food is cheap and delicious, the things are competitive and in a wide variety, and most importantly, the Indonesian attractions are all nearby. Therefore, it is no surprise that the whole place evolved around the tourism industry, so come here and have fun.
Here’s our take of Top 10 Things to Do and Must See in Bandung:
-> Or jump to see the Best Accommodations in Bandung
Bandung city, Java, Indonesia. Photo by Irwandy Mazwir
Top Things To Do in Bandung
Shop in factory outlets
I am not exaggerating here; nobody goes back from Bandung empty-handed. Especially if you go to the factory outlets at Jl Riau or Jl Dago, you will find all the hidden gems of quality clothes, shoes, bags, and all else in various famous brands. All the items you discover here are in good condition, brand new but in half the price!
| -> Find the best hotel deals at Jalan Riau or Jalan Dago * |
Shopping at Bandung. Photo by Azlan DuPree
Catch a sunset at The Valley
If you are looking for another option to dine and something unique to do in Bandung, you can choose to go to The Valley * for dinner. This Western restaurant is located at a hilltop with an amazing sunset view. The food is good too, so enjoy your meal while watching the sunset over Bandung city. They also have a choice of rooms and villas * if you can’t have enough of the view.
Eat at Kampung Daun
One of the Bandung’s best restaurant, many tourists come here for the relaxing ambiance with bamboo huts, streams, and waterfall. Food is not especially delicious, but it is extensive and inexpensive. Come here for the overall experience of enjoying Indonesian cuisine in a comfortable and serene outdoor setting.
Kampung Daun restaurant at Bandung. Photo by Chen Wu
Get lost in Pasar Baru
This epitome of the Indonesian market in Bandung, you can get lost here and find all sorts of things that delight you. Travelers come here to source for fabrics and souvenirs. Prices here are unbelievable too, especially if you have special bargaining skills. Though do take care of your belongings as this place is crowded.
| -> Find the best hotel deals near Pasar Baru * |
Enjoy the musical performance at Saung Angklung Udjo
This traditional musical performance is one of the best ways to explore Indonesian culture. It is a 2-hour show of several parts, including a puppet show, mask dance, Angklung performance, and dances with little kids. Watch the performance and maybe also participate in an Angklung workshop; they are bound to delight.
Saung Angklung Udjo, Bandung. Photo by inna dee
Walk off the beaten path in search of rice terraces
How can one come to Asia and not be awed by towering rice terraces? Unknown to many, Bandung has rolling rice fields and some rice terraces in the highlands. Bribe a local to tell you the location is and head there for a soul-refreshing time. There’s one apparently in Ciwidey!
Rice Terraces at Bandung. Photo by chrisinno
Top What to See in Bandung
Kawah Putih
Kawah Putih is definitely on the top of the list of attractions to see in Bandung for its stunningly beautiful lake. It is 2 hours away from Bandung city center and in the highland, but it is worth to do. The place is cooling but beware of sunburn as it is still really sunny here without feeling it. It is a sulphuric lake as it comes from a volcano. The entire area can be explored in 30 minutes. Many people come here either by car hire or through a Kawah Putih, Bandung Tour.
Kawah Putih, Bandung, Java. Photo by firmatography
Tangkuban Perahu
About 1.5 hours from Bandung, it is yet another crater from a volcano in Indonesia that is worth the visit for the sheer awe of the view from the top. It may be the second-best next to Kawah Putih but still worth a visit.
Villa Isola
Built by an Italian millionaire and perched at the northern part of Bandung, Villa Isola overlooks a breathtaking view of the city to the south. This villa is one tourist attraction not to be missed. There are also cool places to stay nearby Villa Isola *
Tangkuban Perahu, Bandung. Photo by Irwandy Mazwir
Gedung Sate and the view
Built and used by the Dutch companies, it is popular for its satay food decoration. It has six ornaments symbolizing 6 million guldens. Now it is used as the office for West Java governor. Luckily, the place is open to the public, and don’t forget to have a good chill and drink at the top floor while overlooking the city.
Gedung Merdeka
Another architectural wonder built for the rich previously and then made famous for hosting the first Asian-African conference. Though not much of an attraction but worth to take a look if you are nearby.
Gedung Merdeka, Bandung. Photo by MangAndri Kasep
Now you know the best things to do and attractions to see in Bandung. You will be amazed how you can enjoy yourself so much without actually really spending a lot, especially suitable for budget travelers who are backpacking in Indonesia, though carrying a lot of things after the shopping is another story altogether! Do read our
Best Accommodations in Bandung
Agoda.com * is a good choice as they have the most extensive hotel listings in Asia with great deals.
Booking.com * is a favorite of many because it offers cancellation allowing flexibility.
Most people like to stay in the center of Bandung for easy access to shopping and food, but if you are looking for a relaxing and tranquil getaway, a little up north are some beautiful retreats, with quicker access to tourist spots. Here are a few of the best accommodations that we recommend to stay in Bandung:
Luxury (from 150 USD)
- Padma Hotel
For those who enjoy nature and tranquillity, this hotel is surrounded by greeneries and mountain breeze. Highly recommended for luxury seekers. This deluxe hotel comes with a stunning pool area, impressive outdoor dining, and a variety of free activities to choose.
Find latest prices or reviews at Agoda.com *
Find latest prices or reviews at Booking.com * - The Trans Luxury Hotel Bandung
For those seeking luxury in a good location, this hotel is attached to a major mall. The skyline views from the rooms will make you want to stay in! The interior is extravagant yet comfortable. It is also a favourite of the family, as there are clubs and sand area at the pool for the kids.
Find latest prices or reviews at Agoda.com *
Find latest prices or reviews at Booking.com *
Mid-range (50 – 150 USD)
- Hilton Bandung
For those looking for a well-known hotel with world-class services and strong security. You will find all the usual luxury here, with an impressive rooftop pool, featuring beautiful views of Tangkuban Perahu mountain. Also well located, it is only 5 minutes walk to the shopping center and 5 minutes drive to the airport. Book quickly as this hotel often sells out.
Find latest prices or reviews at Agoda.com *
Find latest prices or reviews at Booking.com * - Grand Mercure
Another safe and well-known hotel for a mid-range budget. This hotel located quietly just off-center of Bandung. With a grand design, it comes with impressive pools, sun terraces, and a fitness center.
Find latest prices or reviews at Agoda.com *
Find latest prices or reviews at Booking.com *
Budget (below 50 USD)
- Harris Hotel
Another well-known name for its good budget hotels, this one in Bandung lives up to it. Value for money, this hotel comes with a rooftop pool, gym, and spa. The spacious rooms come with a view of the beautiful Ciumbeuleuit area. Located north of Bandung, it has easy access to the Lembang area, with many of Bandung’s must-see places above.
Find latest prices or reviews at Agoda.com *
Find latest prices or reviews at Booking.com * - Ivory by Ayola Hotel Bandung
For those looking for an affordable hotel in the center of Bandung. Located strategically at Riau Street, this stylishly designed hotel is spacious yet cozy. Guests love it here for the price, location, comfortable beds, and good coffee.
Find the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *
Find latest prices or reviews at Booking.com *
Versi Bahasa Indonesia – 10 Tempat Wisata yang Wajib Dikunjungi di Bandung
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Top 10 Things To Do in Yogyakarta
Top 10 Things to do in Java
Bandung Trip Itinerary – 3 days/nights
Bandung Travel Guide
Hi Rachel,
How many days would you recommend to spend here as someone who has never been to Indonesia? Are there any resorts you recommend?
depending how much you want to cover, is it just Java or also Bali and the other islands? You can check out our suggested itineraries in Indonesia page for more ideas.
Hi I am travelling to banding on the 5 april and it’s my first trip. Plse provide me some information regards to my stay.
1. What is the mode of transportation to travel from one place to another.
2. Plse advise what are the attractions with good scenic scenery to take photos.
3. What currency do I need to bring along.
4. Is bandung weather cooling in April and what’s the temperature.
5. Is the volcano eruption affecting the pollution in banding during April.
6. Is all the attraction far from another.
Looking forward to hear from you.
Have a blessed day.
Bernard
Thanks for all these infos, I’m sure it will help us fill our time there next month :)
I’m just confused because some people say 2h to go to Kawah Putih, but others say 4h. We plan to go end of march 2014, during the long weekend and we will stay near gedung sate. How long do you think it will take to reach Kawah Putih ?
Thanks for your help
May i ask, how about the transportation there ? I mean to travel from one place to another seemed tedious and costly? i am planning to visit a friend who works at bandung.
you can use the local bemo or pay for taxi to go around.
Hi Rachel
We are thinking of spending 1 month in Bandung during our World Trip since there is a German school there and we want to get the kids slowly used to schools :-))) again. Do you think Bandung is the kind of a city to spend 1 month and what would you recommend for lodging?
Thx. Lu
Hi Lu, one mont in Bandung is a long time and you would be able to experience more than just what a normal tourist would. I would suggest that you look for short term apartments to rent since it is for longer term and would be better for your family.
I’m planning a 5d4n solo trip to Bandung. How much is the recommended budget for 1 day per say?
I’ll definitely be going to Kawah Putih and The Valley.
(Main purpose to visit Bandung is to go on a photographic journey)
I am on my plan to see badung for only 2 nights, can you recommend me where should I go, where should I see?
Hi Rachel, nice article … Tebing Keraton, De Ranch, Trans Studio Bandung, Kampung Gajah Wonderland, and Curug Malela seems necessary also included in the list of tourist attractions in Bandung … thank you
Hi Rachel
I’m planning to go toBandung next week for Christmas holiday. I’m traveling alone and planning to stay there for at least three days. Do you think Bandung is a safe place for a female solo traveler to explore? What places do you recommend for a solo traveler like me to visit? Do you know any safe and affordable hotel where I could stay? I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Wish to visit bandung, how many days will u recommend ?
2-3 days would be just nice :)
i suggest you to stay 3-4 days on weekday not weekend. thanks
bandung is a beautiful city, try the farious food and awesome view, and also have art and culture specially musical like colabouration modern and ethnic iam a player from saung angklung udjo and also a driver..
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Wow.. I want to go to Bandung
wow thats a great experience in Bandung. Bandung have a great place to visit, you know what? Bandung have a great outbound facilities in Cimahi, it call Curug Tilu Leuwi Opat.