Backpacking in Medan
🏆 Top pickcity ranked #10
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 5, 2026

Most people write Medan off as a grim transit hub, but it’s actually one of the cheapest big cities in Indonesia to eat like a king on a backpacker budget. Sitting on the northeast coast of Sumatra, it’s your launchpad to Bukit Lawang, Lake Toba, and jungle trips, not a stand-alone “wow” city. The vibe is raw, busy, and very local; colonial relics like Maimun Palace and the old Dutch buildings are interesting but not trip-defining. It’s safe enough if you use city common sense, cheaper and less charming than Penang, rougher and more chaotic than nearby Berastagi, and you’ll meet more locals than backpackers unless you’re in a hostel right on the main drag.

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Best time to go: May - September
Population: 2.8 million
Daily cost: USD15 to 30 [indonesia.travel]

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #10 city in IndonesiaThe unique appeal for travelers

Medan often surprises backpackers as a basecamp for exploring Sumatra. It’s not just a stopover; it’s a strategic hub. The city offers a solid mix of affordable hostels that cater to budget travelers, making it easy to meet fellow adventurers. You’ll find delicious street food that won’t break the bank, fueling your explorations without sacrificing flavor.

Medan’s walkability allows you to soak in the local vibe, from bustling markets to quiet parks. The nightlife here is lively, with plenty of spots to unwind after a day of wandering. Plus, it’s a breeze to plan day trips to nearby natural wonders, whether you’re chasing waterfalls or trekking through jungles.

If you’re looking for easy onward travel, Medan’s connections to other parts of Indonesia are straightforward, making it a practical … read more 👉

Medan often surprises backpackers as a basecamp for exploring Sumatra. It’s not just a stopover; it’s a strategic hub. The city offers a solid mix of affordable hostels that cater to budget travelers, making it easy to meet fellow adventurers. You’ll find delicious street food that won’t break the bank, fueling your explorations without sacrificing flavor.

Medan’s walkability allows you to soak in the local vibe, from bustling markets to quiet parks. The nightlife here is lively, with plenty of spots to unwind after a day of wandering. Plus, it’s a breeze to plan day trips to nearby natural wonders, whether you’re chasing waterfalls or trekking through jungles.

If you’re looking for easy onward travel, Medan’s connections to other parts of Indonesia are straightforward, making it a practical choice. While it may not have the glitz of other destinations, its value lies in the experiences you can access from this vibrant city.

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💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

Istana Maimun (Maimun Palace) — The yellow Sultan’s palace is the symbol of Medan: Moorish-Malay architecture, royal artefacts, and a real slice of the old Deli Sultanate. Great for photos and a quick guided tour that fills in the city’s pre-colonial court history.
Masjid Raya Al-Mashun (Great Mosque of Medan) — A striking early-20th-century mosque with Arabian, Indian and Spanish touches. Visit during prayer times for atmosphere or sit on the courtyard steps to watch the city flow around it.
Tjong A Fie Mansion — Grand Chinese merchant’s house turned museum. The restored woodwork and family rooms tell the story of Medan’s Chinese business elite and their role in shaping the city.
Kampung Madras (Little India) — Narrow streets lined with sari shops, Indian bakeries, and Hindu temples.

… read more 👉

Istana Maimun (Maimun Palace) — The yellow Sultan’s palace is the symbol of Medan: Moorish-Malay architecture, royal artefacts, and a real slice of the old Deli Sultanate. Great for photos and a quick guided tour that fills in the city’s pre-colonial court history.
Masjid Raya Al-Mashun (Great Mosque of Medan) — A striking early-20th-century mosque with Arabian, Indian and Spanish touches. Visit during prayer times for atmosphere or sit on the courtyard steps to watch the city flow around it.
Tjong A Fie Mansion — Grand Chinese merchant’s house turned museum. The restored woodwork and family rooms tell the story of Medan’s Chinese business elite and their role in shaping the city.
Kampung Madras (Little India) — Narrow streets lined with sari shops, Indian bakeries, and Hindu temples. Food here is the draw: dosa, biryani, and roadside sweets that are authentically, wonderfully spicy.
Maha Vihara Maitreya — One of Indonesia’s largest modern Buddhist complexes; huge statues, peaceful halls and elaborate carvings make it surprisingly photogenic and calming amid the urban bustle.
Museum Negeri Provinsi Sumatera Utara (North Sumatra Museum) — Small but dense with Batak, Malay, and regional artefacts. If you want context for the island’s cultures and costumes, this is the quickest, cheapest primer.
Rahmat International Wildlife Museum & Gallery — Taxidermy museum that’s equal parts fascinating and a bit eerie. It’s an unusual way to see fauna from Sumatra and beyond without leaving the city.
Kesawan Heritage Walk & Tip Top Cafe — Walk the Kesawan corridor for colonial-era banks and shophouses, then drop into Tip Top Café — a vintage bakery/café from the 1930s — for coffee and old-school cakes.
Merdeka Walk & Lapangan Merdeka — Evening food-hub and public square where locals hang out. Street food, live music on weekends, and a real feel for contemporary Medan night life.
Pelabuhan Belawan (Belawan Port & Fish Market) — The city’s gritty maritime gateway: busy fish markets, seafood stalls, and old dockyards. Not glamorous, but essential for understanding Medan’s trading history and to eat very fresh seafood.

A few great day trips nearby: Bukit Lawang for wild orangutans (my personal favorite), the fruit markets and Sibayak/Sinabung treks around Berastagi, and the elephant experiences at Tangkahan.

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🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Medan

Medan is a bustling hub in Indonesia, offering a mix of cultures and experiences. Here’s how the neighborhoods stack up for backpackers:

City Center: This is the heartbeat of Medan. It’s vibrant and packed with local eateries and shops. Costs are moderate, and you can easily walk to attractions like the Maimun Palace. Nightlife is buzzing, with bars and cafes open late. Perfect for short stays, but longer-term visitors might crave a quieter vibe.

Kesawan: A historical area with colonial architecture. It’s quieter than the City Center but still has a lively atmosphere. Prices are reasonable, and you can stroll to nearby markets. Great for those who appreciate history and want a more relaxed pace. Ideal for both short and longer stays.

Brastagi: A bit outside the city, this area offers a … read more 👉

Medan is a bustling hub in Indonesia, offering a mix of cultures and experiences. Here’s how the neighborhoods stack up for backpackers:

City Center: This is the heartbeat of Medan. It’s vibrant and packed with local eateries and shops. Costs are moderate, and you can easily walk to attractions like the Maimun Palace. Nightlife is buzzing, with bars and cafes open late. Perfect for short stays, but longer-term visitors might crave a quieter vibe.

Kesawan: A historical area with colonial architecture. It’s quieter than the City Center but still has a lively atmosphere. Prices are reasonable, and you can stroll to nearby markets. Great for those who appreciate history and want a more relaxed pace. Ideal for both short and longer stays.

Brastagi: A bit outside the city, this area offers a cooler climate and stunning views. It’s a bit pricier due to its tourist appeal, but the natural beauty is worth it. Transport options are available, but you’ll need to plan ahead. Best for longer stays if you want to escape the city hustle.

Medan Baru: A residential neighborhood with a local feel. Costs are lower, and it’s walkable with a few local eateries. It’s quieter, making it suitable for longer stays. Not much nightlife, but you’ll get a genuine taste of daily life here.

⌛️ 1 dayHow to make the most of one day

Medan, Indonesia, is a bustling hub that blends cultures, flavors, and history. It’s the gateway to Sumatra, but it’s also a vibrant city in its own right, with a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be uncovered.

Start your day in the bustling area of Kesawan, where you can grab a traditional breakfast of Nasi Goreng at a local warung. The aroma of spices fills the air, and the friendly chatter of locals sets the tone for your adventure. After fueling up, stroll over to the Maimun Palace, an architectural marvel that showcases the city’s royal heritage. The intricate designs and lush gardens offer a glimpse into Medan’s past.

In the afternoon, head to Brastagi, a nearby highland area that’s often overlooked by tourists. It’s a refreshing escape from the city’s heat, with stunning views … read more 👉

Medan, Indonesia, is a bustling hub that blends cultures, flavors, and history. It’s the gateway to Sumatra, but it’s also a vibrant city in its own right, with a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be uncovered.

Start your day in the bustling area of Kesawan, where you can grab a traditional breakfast of Nasi Goreng at a local warung. The aroma of spices fills the air, and the friendly chatter of locals sets the tone for your adventure. After fueling up, stroll over to the Maimun Palace, an architectural marvel that showcases the city’s royal heritage. The intricate designs and lush gardens offer a glimpse into Medan’s past.

In the afternoon, head to Brastagi, a nearby highland area that’s often overlooked by tourists. It’s a refreshing escape from the city’s heat, with stunning views of Mount Sinabung. Grab a fresh coconut from a street vendor and take a leisurely walk through the local market, where you can find everything from tropical fruits to handmade crafts. This is a slice of life in Medan that many miss, and it’s worth the short trip.

As evening approaches, return to the city and explore Jalan Semarang, known for its street food scene. Dive into the local delicacies like Roti Bakar and Martabak. The vibrant atmosphere, with food stalls lining the streets, creates a perfect backdrop for your last meal in Medan.

This day in Medan is a blend of culture, nature, and culinary delights, offering a well-rounded experience without the rush. Embrace the chaos; it’s all part of the charm.

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🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

Topic: Weather – Medan’s tropical climate means it’s hot and humid year-round, but the dry season from June to September offers less rain, making trekking and city exploration smoother.

Topic: Temperature – Expect daily highs around 30-33°C (86-91°F) and lows near 23-25°C (73-77°F). The temperature doesn’t swing much, so rain and humidity are the real game-changers.

Topic: Daylight Hours – Roughly 12 hours of daylight year-round, so timing your activities isn’t about daylight length but about avoiding midday heat and sudden showers.

Topic: Crowds – Tourist numbers dip during the wet season (October to May), which means quieter streets and better deals but more rain interruptions.

Topic: Seasonal Activities – Festivals like the Tabuik in September add cultural depth but also bring

… read more 👉

Topic: Weather – Medan’s tropical climate means it’s hot and humid year-round, but the dry season from June to September offers less rain, making trekking and city exploration smoother.

Topic: Temperature – Expect daily highs around 30-33°C (86-91°F) and lows near 23-25°C (73-77°F). The temperature doesn’t swing much, so rain and humidity are the real game-changers.

Topic: Daylight Hours – Roughly 12 hours of daylight year-round, so timing your activities isn’t about daylight length but about avoiding midday heat and sudden showers.

Topic: Crowds – Tourist numbers dip during the wet season (October to May), which means quieter streets and better deals but more rain interruptions.

Topic: Seasonal Activities – Festivals like the Tabuik in September add cultural depth but also bring crowds and higher prices.

Topic: Price Fluctuations – Accommodation and flights peak in the dry season; the wet season offers bargains but at the cost of unpredictable weather.

Pro-tip: Aim for the shoulder months—May or September—when you catch the tail ends of dry season perks with fewer tourists and better prices.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

Medan’s best backpacker turf centers around the area near Jalan Semarang and Jalan Balai Kota. This zone strikes a smart balance between safety and social buzz, making it a natural magnet for solo travelers and budget adventurers. You’ll find a cluster of hostels here, offering clean, affordable beds without the chaos of tourist traps. The vibe is relaxed but lively, with street food stalls and local cafés that invite conversation and cultural exchange. Compared to the sprawling, less pedestrian-friendly suburbs, this neighborhood keeps you close to key transport hubs and markets, cutting down … read more 👉

Medan’s best backpacker turf centers around the area near Jalan Semarang and Jalan Balai Kota. This zone strikes a smart balance between safety and social buzz, making it a natural magnet for solo travelers and budget adventurers. You’ll find a cluster of hostels here, offering clean, affordable beds without the chaos of tourist traps. The vibe is relaxed but lively, with street food stalls and local cafés that invite conversation and cultural exchange. Compared to the sprawling, less pedestrian-friendly suburbs, this neighborhood keeps you close to key transport hubs and markets, cutting down on wasted time and dodgy rides. It’s not about luxury, but the comfort of knowing you’re in a well-trodden, traveler-friendly pocket where you can plug into the city’s rhythm without losing your wallet or your peace of mind.

Best hostels in Medan

Best quality hotels in Indonesia

🚌 Getting aroundGetting around like a local

Medan moves with a pulse that’s part clockwork, part improvisation. The city’s rhythm isn’t about strict timetables but about reading the street’s mood—when the sun’s high, traffic snarls, and the pace slows; early mornings and late evenings, it’s a different beast, quieter and quicker. You’ll find that time here is elastic, stretching or snapping back depending on your mode of transit and the hour. Understanding this flow is your secret weapon. It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about choosing when and how to move so you’re not just a passenger but a player in the city’s game.

Walking: The cheapest and often fastest way through Medan’s dense neighborhoods, especially around the city center. No schedule, zero cost, but prepare for uneven sidewalks and the occasional street vendor

… read more 👉

Medan moves with a pulse that’s part clockwork, part improvisation. The city’s rhythm isn’t about strict timetables but about reading the street’s mood—when the sun’s high, traffic snarls, and the pace slows; early mornings and late evenings, it’s a different beast, quieter and quicker. You’ll find that time here is elastic, stretching or snapping back depending on your mode of transit and the hour. Understanding this flow is your secret weapon. It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about choosing when and how to move so you’re not just a passenger but a player in the city’s game.

Walking: The cheapest and often fastest way through Medan’s dense neighborhoods, especially around the city center. No schedule, zero cost, but prepare for uneven sidewalks and the occasional street vendor crowd. Ideal for short hops and soaking in local life.

Angkot (Minibus): Runs roughly from 6 AM to 9 PM, fares hover around IDR 3,000–5,000. It’s slow and cramped but unbeatable for budget travelers aiming to cover medium distances without breaking the bank. Expect frequent stops and a chaotic boarding process.

Ojek (Motorcycle Taxi): Available 24/7, prices start at IDR 10,000 for short rides. Offers speed and flexibility, slicing through traffic jams with ease. Comfort is minimal, but the time saved is often worth the trade-off, especially during rush hour.

Taxi (Metered): Operates around the clock, fares start at IDR 7,000 plus IDR 6,500 per kilometer. More comfortable and private, but traffic can turn a short ride into a slow crawl. Best for late-night trips or when you’re carrying heavy gear.

Trans Metro Deli Bus: Scheduled from 5 AM to 10 PM, fares about IDR 5,000. It’s a budget-friendly, air-conditioned option with fixed routes, but expect delays during peak hours. Good balance of comfort and cost if you can align your schedule.

👛 Costs (as of 22 December 2024)What things cost and how to budget

Backpacking in Medan, Indonesia, is a balancing act between budget and convenience, and knowing the daily costs helps you play that game smartly.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $6 to $10 per night. High season drives prices up slightly, especially in popular hostels near the city center or tourist spots.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): Prices drop to about $4 to $7 per night. Off-season means fewer tourists, so you can snag better deals and sometimes negotiate directly with hostel owners.
Meals: Street food and local warungs keep your food budget tight, roughly $2 to $5 per meal. For three meals a day, plan on $6 to $15. Stick to local dishes like nasi goreng or mie ayam for authentic flavors without the tourist markup.
Local Transport: Short rides on becak (pedicabs)

… read more 👉

Backpacking in Medan, Indonesia, is a balancing act between budget and convenience, and knowing the daily costs helps you play that game smartly.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $6 to $10 per night. High season drives prices up slightly, especially in popular hostels near the city center or tourist spots.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): Prices drop to about $4 to $7 per night. Off-season means fewer tourists, so you can snag better deals and sometimes negotiate directly with hostel owners.
Meals: Street food and local warungs keep your food budget tight, roughly $2 to $5 per meal. For three meals a day, plan on $6 to $15. Stick to local dishes like nasi goreng or mie ayam for authentic flavors without the tourist markup.
Local Transport: Short rides on becak (pedicabs) or angkot (minibuses) cost between $0.30 and $1.50. These are perfect for quick hops around neighborhoods but can be slow during peak hours.
City Transport Pass: Medan doesn’t have a formal city transport pass system like bigger cities, so budgeting for daily transport means adding up individual fares, usually totaling around $2 to $4 per day if you move around a lot.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Most cultural sites and museums charge between $1 and $3. Nature spots or temples might be free or ask for a small donation. Plan on $2 to $5 daily if you’re hitting a few places.
Miscellaneous Expenses: This covers bottled water, snacks, occasional coffee, or small souvenirs. Around $1 to $3 daily keeps you covered without splurging.

Altogether, a realistic daily budget for backpacking in Medan ranges from about $15 on the lean side to $30 if you want a bit more comfort or activity. This range lets you decide where to tighten or loosen the purse strings without sacrificing the experience.

source: indonesia.travel

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

Medan, Indonesia, is a strategic launchpad for day trips that pack a punch without draining your wallet or time. Here’s how to maximize your experience while balancing time, money, and comfort.

Lake Toba
Just a few hours from Medan, Lake Toba is a massive volcanic lake that offers stunning views and a chance to unwind. The journey takes about 4 hours by bus, costing around $5. Once there, you can explore Samosir Island, rent a bike, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere. Many first-timers underestimate the chill factor; bring a light jacket for the cooler lakeside breeze.
👉 Explore Lake Toba

Bukit Lawang
If you’re keen on wildlife, Bukit Lawang is a must. About 3 hours away, this village is the gateway to the Gunung Leuser National Park, where you can trek to see orangutans in their … read more 👉

Medan, Indonesia, is a strategic launchpad for day trips that pack a punch without draining your wallet or time. Here’s how to maximize your experience while balancing time, money, and comfort.

Lake Toba
Just a few hours from Medan, Lake Toba is a massive volcanic lake that offers stunning views and a chance to unwind. The journey takes about 4 hours by bus, costing around $5. Once there, you can explore Samosir Island, rent a bike, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere. Many first-timers underestimate the chill factor; bring a light jacket for the cooler lakeside breeze.
👉 Explore Lake Toba

Bukit Lawang
If you’re keen on wildlife, Bukit Lawang is a must. About 3 hours away, this village is the gateway to the Gunung Leuser National Park, where you can trek to see orangutans in their natural habitat. Expect to spend around $10 on transport and another $10 for a guided trek. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September. A common mistake is underestimating the trek’s difficulty; be prepared for muddy trails and steep climbs.

Berastagi
For a taste of local culture and stunning views, head to Berastagi, just 2 hours from Medan. This highland town is famous for its fresh produce and the nearby active volcano, Mount Sinabung. You can explore local markets and enjoy the cooler climate for about $7 round trip. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid the afternoon clouds. Many miss out on the local food scene; don’t skip the fresh fruit stalls!

Sipiso-Piso Waterfall
Sipiso-Piso is one of Indonesia’s tallest waterfalls, located about 3 hours from Medan. The entrance fee is minimal, around $1, and the views are breathtaking. The trek down to the base can be steep, so wear sturdy shoes. Aim for a visit in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds. First-timers often overlook the surrounding area; take time to explore the nearby rice fields for a complete experience.

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🍲 FoodEating & Drinking in Medan

In Medan, food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors that tells the story of its diverse culture. Start with nasi goreng—a fragrant fried rice dish that’s a staple here. The smoky aroma hits you as you walk past street vendors, where sizzling woks create a symphony of sound. Pair it with sate—grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with a rich peanut sauce that’s downright addictive.

Don’t miss bubur ayam, a comforting chicken porridge that locals devour for breakfast. The creamy texture, topped with crispy shallots and a drizzle of soy sauce, is a morning ritual. For something sweet, try kue lapis, a layered cake that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Backpackers flock to bustling markets and street stalls, where the energy is palpable. Eating here isn’t just about the food; it’s a social … read more 👉

In Medan, food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors that tells the story of its diverse culture. Start with nasi goreng—a fragrant fried rice dish that’s a staple here. The smoky aroma hits you as you walk past street vendors, where sizzling woks create a symphony of sound. Pair it with sate—grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with a rich peanut sauce that’s downright addictive.

Don’t miss bubur ayam, a comforting chicken porridge that locals devour for breakfast. The creamy texture, topped with crispy shallots and a drizzle of soy sauce, is a morning ritual. For something sweet, try kue lapis, a layered cake that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Backpackers flock to bustling markets and street stalls, where the energy is palpable. Eating here isn’t just about the food; it’s a social affair. Expect to share tables and engage in lively banter.

Etiquette is simple: eat with your right hand and don’t be shy about diving into communal dishes. This is how you truly savor Medan’s culinary heart.

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Medan

Medan is generally safe, but like any bustling city, it has its quirks. Stay alert in crowded markets like Pasar Petisah, where pickpockets might lurk. If you’re solo, avoid wandering too far after dark; the streets can feel deserted, and it’s better to stick to well-lit areas.

Taxis are reliable, but always use reputable apps like Grab to avoid overcharging. Be cautious with street food vendors; while most are fine, choose busy stalls where locals gather.

Common scams include overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or guiding you to shops where they earn a commission. A polite but firm “no, thank you” usually suffices. Carry your belongings close and maintain a confident demeanor. This approach not only keeps you safe but also enhances your experience.

Check Country Safety

Other Indonesian cities near Medan

Explore more nearby:

Pematangsiantar—Batak culture, colonial relics, coffee shops| 82 km away
Pekanbaru—oil industry, Malay heritage, river parks| 462 km away
Bukittinggi—Minangkabau culture, clock tower, hilltop views| 473 km away

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We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

Medan is a sensory overload in the best way. The street food scene is a wild ride—think spicy rendang and sweet durian that’ll have your taste buds dancing. But here’s the catch: the traffic can be a nightmare. Expect delays and chaos. Embrace it. It’s part of the experience. You’ll leave with a full belly and stories that’ll make you chuckle. Just be ready to navigate the hustle.

✈️ When did I visit Indonesia?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Indonesia twice (and it was worth it. First in September 2015 and a bit later again in January and February 2016.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Indonesia, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Indonesia🇮🇩 | citiesMedanChinese shophouses, mosque domes, culinary crossroads | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Medan
🏆 Top pickcity ranked #10
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 5, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #10 city in IndonesiaThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

Things to do in Medan

2 Days 1 Night Ethical Jungle Trekking

ORANGUTAN TREK (2D/1N) by EcoTravel Bukit Lawang

3-Day Bukit Lawang Tour Including 1-Day Ethical Jungle Trekking

2 Days Ethical Jungle Trek in Sumatra

Wonderful 2Days 1Night Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking Free Rafting

Mount Sibayak Sunrise Hike or Day Hike from Berastagi

1 week private round trip North Sumatra

7 Days 6 Nights North Sumatra Tour (Bukit Lawang-Berastagi-Lake Toba)

1 Day Ethical Jungle Trekking

3-DAYS Jungle Trekking ( SEE ORANG UTAN) & Rafting l Bukit Lawang

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Medan

⌛️ 1 dayHow to make the most of one day

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutIndonesia Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

🚌 Getting aroundGetting around like a local

👛 Costs (as of 22 December 2024)What things cost and how to budget

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

🍲 FoodEating & Drinking in Medan

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Medan

Other Indonesian cities near Medan

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Indonesia🇮🇩 | citiesMedanChinese shophouses, mosque domes, culinary crossroads | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Medan🏆 Top pickcity ranked #10By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 5, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816b2c1')

✨ Why go?Ranked #10 city in IndonesiaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816bdc2')The unique appeal for travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816bdc7')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816d76d')The experiences that define the visitaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816d774')

Things to do in Medan

2 Days 1 Night Ethical Jungle Trekking

ORANGUTAN TREK (2D/1N) by EcoTravel Bukit Lawang

3-Day Bukit Lawang Tour Including 1-Day Ethical Jungle Trekking

2 Days Ethical Jungle Trek in Sumatra

Wonderful 2Days 1Night Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking Free Rafting

Mount Sibayak Sunrise Hike or Day Hike from Berastagi

1 week private round trip North Sumatra

7 Days 6 Nights North Sumatra Tour (Bukit Lawang-Berastagi-Lake Toba)

1 Day Ethical Jungle Trekking

3-DAYS Jungle Trekking ( SEE ORANG UTAN) & Rafting l Bukit Lawang

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816de83')Neighborhood guide to MedanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816de87')

⌛️ 1 dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816e658')How to make the most of one dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816e65d')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816ede8')When to go for the best experienceaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3816edef')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutIndonesia Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f381707c4')Best areas and accommodation optionsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f381707ca')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f38171188')Getting around like a localaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3817118e')

👛 Costs (as of 22 December 2024)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f38171bd0')What things cost and how to budgetaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f38171bd6')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3818c435')Exploring the surroundingsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3818c43d')

🍲 FoodaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3818cad5')Eating & Drinking in MedanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3818cada')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3818cc4a')Safety Tips and Common Scams in MedanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f3818cc4e')

Other Indonesian cities near MedanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f38192670')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f38192883')What to keep in mindaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f38192888')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f381928eb')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a54f381928ee')

Backpacking in Medan
🏆 Top pickcity ranked #10
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 5, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #10 city in IndonesiaThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Medan

⌛️ 1 dayHow to make the most of one day

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

🚌 Getting aroundGetting around like a local

👛 Costs (as of 22 December 2024)What things cost and how to budget

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

🍲 FoodEating & Drinking in Medan

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Medan

Other Indonesian cities near Medan

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?