7 Free Things to Do in Medan

Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra, Indonesia, is a vibrant metropolis that offers a unique blend of cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. Digital nomads who choose to stay in Medan for a few months or longer will find that the city has plenty to offer without having to spend a single rupiah. From exploring ancient temples to enjoying the lush greenery of public parks, Medan's free attractions provide a rich experience for those looking to immerse themselves in local life while managing their travel budget.

Maimun Palace

The Maimun Palace is an iconic historical site in Medan, showcasing the royal heritage of the Sultanate of Deli. This grand palace, with its distinctive Malay, Mogul, and Italian architectural styles, offers a glimpse into the opulent past of the region. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and marvel at the intricate designs and furnishings that have been preserved over the years. While there is a small fee to enter the main building, wandering the exterior and taking in the majestic facade is completely free.

Location: Jl. Brigjen Katamso, Sukaraja, Kec. Medan Maimun, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: The palace is still used for cultural and royal events, so you might be lucky enough to witness a traditional ceremony if you time your visit right.

Nearby: After visiting the palace, take a short walk to Rumah Makan Sinar Pagi for some authentic Sumatran cuisine, famous for their Soto Medan.

Tjong A Fie Mansion

The Tjong A Fie Mansion is a historical landmark that tells the story of one of Medan's most influential figures. This beautifully preserved mansion allows visitors to step back in time and experience the luxury of a bygone era. The mansion is open to the public for free, although donations are appreciated. The guided tours offer an in-depth look at the life of Tjong A Fie and the impact he had on Medan's development.

Location: Jl. Jend. Ahmad Yani No.105, Kesawan, Kec. Medan Barat, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: Check out the schedule for cultural performances and exhibitions that are often held on the mansion grounds.

Nearby: Merdeka Walk is a short distance away, offering a variety of food stalls and cafes where you can enjoy a leisurely meal or coffee.

Lake Toba Viewpoint

While Lake Toba itself is a bit of a journey from Medan, there are several viewpoints within the city that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, including distant views of the lake on clear days. These viewpoints are free to access and provide digital nomads with a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts or anyone looking to enjoy a serene sunset.

Location: Various locations around the outskirts of Medan.

Travel Tip: Bring a picnic and make an afternoon of it, enjoying the cooler air and the panoramic views.

Nearby: Local warungs (small family-owned businesses) can be found nearby, offering traditional Indonesian snacks and drinks.

Rahmat International Wildlife Museum & Gallery

For those interested in natural history and conservation, the Rahmat International Wildlife Museum & Gallery is a fascinating place to visit. This lesser-known attraction houses an extensive collection of taxidermied animals from around the world, aiming to educate visitors on wildlife diversity and the importance of preserving it. Entrance to the museum is free, and it provides an insightful indoor activity for those rare rainy days in Medan.

Location: Jl. S. Parman No.309, Petisah Tengah, Kec. Medan Petisah, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: The museum is quite large, so allocate enough time to fully appreciate the exhibits.

Nearby: Stop by Café Raya for a cozy atmosphere and a selection of coffee and pastries after your museum visit.

Annai Velangkanni Shrine

The Annai Velangkanni Shrine is a unique Indo-Mogul Catholic church that stands out for its vibrant architecture and peaceful ambiance. This spiritual site is open to visitors of all faiths and offers a tranquil space for reflection or prayer. The church's intricate design and colorful frescoes make it a popular spot for photography, and its serene gardens are perfect for a quiet stroll.

Location: Jl. Sakura III No.7-10, Tanjung Selamat, Kec. Medan Tuntungan, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: Respect the sanctity of the shrine by dressing modestly and maintaining a quiet demeanor during your visit.

Nearby: Nearby local eateries offer delicious Indonesian dishes that are perfect for a quick bite after exploring the shrine.

Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square is the heart of Medan, a bustling public space where locals come to relax, exercise, and socialize. It's surrounded by important buildings like the Medan City Hall and the Great Mosque, making it a significant cultural and historical area. Digital nomads can join in on free fitness classes in the mornings or simply enjoy people-watching throughout the day.

Location: Jl. Balai Kota, Kesawan, Kec. Medan Barat, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: Visit during national holidays or festivals to experience the square at its most vibrant, with various performances and street food vendors.

Nearby: Tip Top Restaurant, an old colonial-style eatery, is a short walk away and offers a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes.

Medan Grand Mosque

The Medan Grand Mosque, also known as Masjid Raya Al Mashun, is a stunning piece of architecture that reflects the city's religious diversity. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome outside of prayer times, and there is no entrance fee. The mosque's intricate designs and grand scale make it a must-visit for those interested in religious architecture and local culture.

Location: Jl. Sisingamangaraja, No.1, Mesjid, Kec. Medan Kota, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: Dress conservatively and be mindful of the Islamic customs when visiting the mosque.

Nearby: Savor a cup of traditional Sumatran coffee at one of the nearby kopi shops after your visit.

Medan North Sumatra Museum

The North Sumatra Museum is a treasure trove of cultural artifacts and historical information about the region. It's a great place for digital nomads to learn about the local history, art, and culture. The museum offers free admission and features exhibits ranging from traditional textiles to ancient weaponry.

Location: Jl. H. M. Joni No.51, Teladan Barat, Kec. Medan Kota, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: Check out the museum's calendar for special exhibitions and cultural events that are often held throughout the year.

Nearby: Enjoy a traditional Indonesian meal at Restoran Garuda, known for its Nasi Padang, located just a short walk from the museum.

Vihara Gunung Timur

Vihara Gunung Timur is the largest Taoist temple in Medan and a serene place to visit for those seeking a spiritual or cultural experience. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and statues, and it's a peaceful retreat from the city's noise. Visitors can explore the temple grounds and observe the daily rituals without any cost.

Location: Jl. Hang Tuah No.16, Glugur Kota, Kec. Medan Tim., Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara.

Travel Tip: Try to visit during a Taoist festival for a more immersive experience with traditional ceremonies and festivities.

Nearby: Sample some local Chinese-Indonesian cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area, such as Mie Tiong Sim Selat Panjang, known for their flavorful noodle dishes.

Medan offers a wealth of experiences for digital nomads looking to explore the city without breaking the bank. From historical sites to cultural landmarks, there's something for everyone in this dynamic Indonesian city.