As the capital of North Sumatra Province, Medan offers a festive blend of cultures, cuisines and architectures, making it Indonesia's third largest city and a must-visit destination. English is not widely spoken here, thus keeping a translator app handy or learning few basic Indonesian phrases could be beneficial.
Getting Around
Car Rental Recommendations
With its sprawling size, renting a car in Medan could make your exploration easier. This will allow you to navigate through the city and its outskirt locations at your own pace. Compact to mid-size cars are recommended due to the narrow and crowded roads. When booking a car, look for providers that offer international driving licenses and comprehensive insurance coverage for a more secure experience.
Parking and Traffic
Most international hotels in Medan provide free parking, but street parking can be challenging due to congestion. Like in other Indonesian cities, driving in Medan requires careful attention due to unpredictable traffic flow. Remember that driving is on the left side of the road, and seat belts are compulsory.
Attractions
Start your adventure by exploring the diverse architectural wonders like the Maimun Palace, the Grand Mosque, and the Tjong A Fie Mansion. Don't miss out on the natural beauty of Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, or the orangutans and elephants in Gunung Leuser National Park. Ensure to pack a bathing suit for a dip in the Sipiso-Piso waterfall.
Surrounding Cities
Medan also serves as the gateway to other stunning destinations in North Sumatra like Berastagi and Bukit Lawang. Using your rental car to drive to these nearby cities can come handy as public transportation may not be readily available.
Climate & Currency
Medan has a tropical rainforest climate, with an average temperature around 27 degrees Celsius year-round. Occasional rainfall may occur, so ensure to pack an umbrella or light rain jacket. The national currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels and restaurants.
Seasonal Events
Visit during the month of October to witness the Lake Toba Festival, where you can enjoy traditional dances, regattas, and art performances. Another noteworthy event is the Coffee Festival in December, celebrating the rich coffee culture of Medan.
Airport and Port
Most travel to Medan is through the Kualanamu International Airport. Make sure to arrange your car rental in advance for an easy pickup. If you're coming by boat, the Belawan port is your entry point.
Embark on your Medan journey equipped with these insights. Cruise along with ease in your rental car and make your holiday unforgettable.
