Best things to do in Medan

Kota Medan Essentials

Medan’s landscape is defined by its diverse heritage, featuring the 19th-century Maimun Palace and the city’s oldest Hindu place of worship, Sri Mariamman Temple. The Indo-Mughal architecture of Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni contrasts with the modern retail spaces of Centre Point and the outdoor food stalls at Merdeka Walk. This selection highlights the city’s cultural layers, from the traditional textile stalls of Pusat Pasar to the man-made Danau Siombak and the regional flavors of Wajir Seafood.

Kota Medan Essentials — Map

Peter Theis / CC-BY-SA

A

Maimun Palace

Maimoon Palace or Maimun Palace is an istana of the Sultanate of Deli and a well-known landmark in Medan, the capital city of Northern…

deepgoswami / CC BY 2.0

B

Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple is Medan's oldest Hindu Temple. This temple was built in 1884 for the worship of Goddess Mariamman.

El Tee / CC-BY-SA

C

Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni

Indo-Mughal style Catholic shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health. The structure features a two-story meeting hall and a seven-story tower with intricate carvings and religious motifs.

D

Merdeka Walk

Outdoor culinary and entertainment hub located in the Lapangan Merdeka area. It features numerous food stalls and restaurants serving local and international cuisine.

Andrian 123 / CC BY-SA 4.0

E

Danau Siombak

A 40-hectare man-made lake located between the Deli and Terjun rivers in the Medan Marelan district, used primarily for fishing and local recreation.

F

Pusat pasar

The city’s primary traditional market and a major center for wholesale textiles, clothing, fresh produce, and regional spices.

G

Wajir Seafood

Popular local restaurant specializing in fresh grilled fish, salted egg prawns, and various Indonesian seafood preparations.

H

Centre Point

Large contemporary shopping mall situated adjacent to the Medan central train station, featuring international retail brands, a department store, and a cinema.