The Best (MUST TRY!) Things to Do in Medan

“Medan? Apa ada kat sana?”

If you pernah tanya soalan ni, you're not alone. Most Malaysians think of Medan as just a pit stop to Lake Toba or a lepak place for a short trip. But haaa… once you actually explore it, you'll realise Medan is more than just a “transit town”. It’s a lively city full of flavours, cultures, and hidden nature escapes — all wrapped in that charming Indonesian hospitality that makes you feel like you balik kampung 🏡.

Imagine sipping hot Soto Medan by the roadside as motorbikes zoom past, or biting into creamy durian at a warung where the abang says, “kalau tak manis, tukar free!” 🔥 Imagine exploring an ancient mansion that tells the story of Chinese influence in Medan, or walking into a palace that feels like it belongs in both Melaka and Middle Eastern folklore.

Whether you're here for makan-makan, culture hunting, or nak escape the city noise and head into nature — Medan’s got a bit of everything. And best part? It’s super affordable for Malaysians (RM goes quite far here 🤑).

Let’s go explore 🧳✨

🌋 1. Lake Toba & Samosir Island – The Crown Jewel of Sumatra

Let’s start with the heavy hitter. If there’s ONE place you absolutely must go near Medan, it’s Lake Toba — the largest volcanic lake in the world. No joke. And smack right in the middle of it is Samosir Island, home to the indigenous Batak people, lush green hills, and some of the most peaceful vibes you’ll ever experience.

What’s it like? Think: cool breeze on your face, reflections of blue skies on the still lake, mountains all around you — macam in a movie. It’s relaxing, it’s quiet, and it’s healing. You’ll see traditional Batak houses with horn-shaped roofs, small stalls selling handwoven ulos fabrics, and friendly locals who’ll treat you like family.

You can rent a scooter or bicycle and ride around the island, stopping at hot springs, waterfalls, and lakeside cafes with stunning views. Don’t forget to try Batak grilled fish fresh from the lake!

How to get there: From Medan, it’s a 4-5 hour drive to Parapat (the lake town), then a short ferry to Samosir Island. Honestly, go for an overnight stay at least — worth every minute.

💡 Tip: Bring a jacket! Evenings can get quite chilly — surprise sejuk like Cameron Highlands weather!

💦 2. Sipiso-Piso Waterfall – Nature’s Drama at Its Finest

Kalau you suka Instagrammable nature spots, Sipiso-Piso Waterfall is a must-see. Located near the northern tip of Lake Toba, this jaw-dropping waterfall plunges 120 metres from a cliff into a deep gorge — and the view? Wah, macam Windows wallpaper 💻✨

From the lookout point, you’ll get a panoramic view of the lake, the mountains, and the waterfall slicing down like a blade. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike down to the base of the falls — but be warned, the trail is steep and slippery (so please, no selipar Jepun ya 😂).

The air is super fresh, and you can hear the sound of the waterfall from a distance — it’s one of those places that reminds you just how powerful and beautiful nature can be.

Location: About 2 hours from Berastagi, or you can swing by on your way back from Lake Toba.

📸 Tip: Come early morning or late evening for that misty, magical vibe (and less tourist crowd).

👑 3. Maimun Palace (Istana Maimun) – Royalty with Malay Flavours

You might be surprised to find a Malay royal palace in the middle of Medan — but that’s exactly what Istana Maimun is! Built in 1888, it was home to the Sultanate of Deli (yup, the same Deli that lent its name to nasi padang’s daging dendeng!).

The palace itself is a vibrant mix of Malay, Mughal, and European architectural styles. Golden domes, ornate furniture, and even vintage chandeliers fill the halls. You can even try on traditional royal costumes (for a small fee) and take pictures like you're the Raja or Ratu of Medan 👑📸

What makes it special for Malaysians is that banyak budaya kita ada overlap. From the songket on the walls to the Islamic calligraphy and even some of the dishes they used to serve in the palace — you’ll feel an unexpected sense of connection.

Location: Right in the city, 10–15 minutes from most hotels in Medan.

🕌 Bonus: There's also a beautiful old mosque nearby, Masjid Raya Al-Mashun — worth a visit too!

🏡 4. Tjong A Fie Mansion – A Chinese Tycoon’s Legacy

Okay, kalau korang suka stories with heart, Tjong A Fie Mansion is one place you shouldn’t miss. This majestic Peranakan-style house once belonged to Tjong A Fie, a Chinese businessman and philanthropist who played a huge role in shaping Medan into what it is today.

What’s wild is how well-preserved the house is — with original furniture, intricate wooden carvings, old photographs, and secret rooms (yes, real secret rooms 🤫). It feels like you’re stepping back in time.

The best part? The tour guides here aren’t robotic — they tell stories with real passion. You’ll learn about how Tjong A Fie built schools, hospitals, and helped multiple communities regardless of race or religion. True Malaysian/Indonesian spirit 🫶

Location: City centre. Walking distance from a few hotels.

🧠 Tip: Spend some time chatting with the caretakers — their stories make the visit so much more meaningful.

🍛 5. Food You Die-Die Must Try in Medan

🦆 Bihun Bebek Asie (Duck Vermicelli Soup)

This is the legendary Medan dish you absolutely cannot skip — especially if you’re a fan of herbal Chinese-style soups. The duck is tender, the broth is soothing with that deep herbal taste, and the rice vermicelli just soaks it all up perfectly.

But the real magic? It’s the garlic oil they drizzle on top. One whiff and you’re hooked. 🤤 The locals take it so seriously, the place is usually packed from early morning.

📍 Where: Jalan Kumango, right in the city
💡 Tip: Ask for the crispy garlic bits on the side — extra umph!

🥥 Soto Medan – Creamy, Rich, and Oh So Shiok

Unlike our usual soto back home, Soto Medan is on another level. The soup is thick, lemak, and made with coconut milk and spices. Usually served with chicken or beef, a boiled egg, perkedel (potato patties), and a generous dash of sambal hijau.

Best eaten with rice or even a stick of satay on the side. The taste is like curry + soto had a baby — sedap gila wei.

📍 Where: Soto Kesawan on Jalan Ahmad Yani
💡 Tip: Add a splash of lime for that perfect balance — trust me 😏

🥥 Lontong Medan – Breakfast of Champions

If you’re Malaysian, this dish will feel familiar but not quite the same. It’s lontong, but the gravy is richer and usually served with sambal ikan bilis, boiled egg, rendang, and serunding.

It’s a super hearty breakfast, and if you’re the kind that wakes up craving something heavy and spicy — this is your go-to. Also a good hangover cure if you went too hard on tuak the night before 🤭

📍 Where: Lontong Kak Lin, very popular spot
💡 Tip: Come early — they usually finish by 10am!

🍈 Durian Ucok – The King of Fruits in His Kingdom

Ah yes, Durian Ucok. The name alone sends Medan locals into a frenzy. This place is not just a durian stall — it’s a ritual. Open almost 24/7, you’ll find piles of durian and the iconic Ucok team shouting, “Tak manis? Ganti baru!” — if it’s not sweet, they’ll change it on the spot.

Their durians are mostly from the highlands of Sidikalang and Sibolga — less gassy, super creamy, and damn power. Prices are reasonable (especially if you're used to KL durian prices 😭).

📍 Where: Durian Ucok, Jalan Wahid Hasyim
💡 Tip: Bring cash, and wear loose pants. You’re gonna be here a while.

🎁 Bonus: Souvenirs to Bring Home for Your Aunties

● Bolu Meranti – soft, fluffy Swiss rolls with fillings like cheese, chocolate, and pandan.

● Bika Ambon Zulaikha – sticky tapioca cake with that honeycomb texture, perfect for tea time.

● Pancake Durian – like mochi filled with fresh durian cream. Dangerous if frozen and forgotten in luggage though 😅

🔍 6. Hidden Gems in Medan You Shouldn’t Miss

🐯 Rahmat International Wildlife Museum

Okay, this one’s a bit quirky, but if you’re into animals or just weird museums — this will surprise you. It’s basically a taxidermy museum with over 1,000 preserved animals from all over the world. Tigers, lions, polar bears, giraffes — you name it.

Sounds creepy? A bit. But also super educational. The owner was passionate about conservation and wanted people to learn about animals in a more up-close way.

📍 Where: Jalan Letjen S. Parman
💡 Tip: Great place to take kids (or curious adults like me haha)

🕌 Marian Shrine of Annai Velangkanni

A Catholic church… that looks like a Hindu temple… built in Mughal-style architecture… in the middle of Medan?

Yes, you read that right.

This unique shrine is a symbol of religious harmony in Indonesia. Even if you're not religious, the architecture alone will blow you away. Colourful, intricate, and peaceful — it’s one of those places you wouldn’t expect but end up loving.

📍 Where: Taman Sakura Indah
💡 Tip: Go around sunset for that magical golden hour glow ✨

🚗 7. Day Trips from Medan – Nature, Volcanoes & Highland Escapes

If you’ve got an extra day or two, do not just lepak in town. The surroundings of Medan are seriously underrated, and best part? You don’t need to fly anywhere — just a few hours’ drive and you’re in an entirely different world 🌿🌋

🏞️ Berastagi – Highland Chillin’ + Fruit Heaven

Just about 2 hours from Medan, Berastagi is a highland town that’s cool, refreshing, and has major Cameron Highlands vibes… minus the traffic jam.

Berastagi is known for:

● Pasar Buah Berastagi – a colourful fruit market with giant passionfruit, strawberries, and even rare local fruits.

● Gundaling Hill – sunset spot with panoramic views of TWO volcanoes (Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung).

● Traditional Batak Karo villages – super photogenic with unique architecture.

You can also ride a horse for cheap (touristy but fun!) and chill with a cup of local coffee at one of the small mountain cafes.

💡 Tip: Bring a jacket — it can get sejuk and foggy at night!

🌋 Mount Sibayak – Sunrise Volcano Hike

Calling all nature lovers and active travellers — Gunung Sibayak is one of the most beginner-friendly volcano hikes in the region. You can do a sunrise trek (starts around 3AM), and by 6AM, you’re at the crater with steam vents hissing around you and the sky turning gold.

The hike isn’t too tough — around 1.5–2 hours up depending on pace. It’s a bucket list moment, especially for those who’ve never hiked a volcano before.

And yes, you can boil eggs in the hot springs. Nature’s steamboat 🥚🔥

📍 From Berastagi, just a short ride to the base. Local guides available if needed.

🐘 Tangkahan – Elephants, Hot Springs & Jungle Bliss

Now this one is off the beaten path. If you’re looking for something unique — Tangkahan is an eco-tourism hidden gem. Here, you can bathe elephants, soak in natural hot springs, and float down a jungle river in a rubber tube. 🌿🛶

It’s all inside the Leuser National Park, one of the last places where orangutans roam free. The vibes here are peaceful, very back-to-nature, and you'll rarely see many tourists — perfect for a quiet reset.

📍 Around 4–5 hours from Medan. Bumpy ride but worth it!
💡 Tip: No fancy hotels here — it’s all about basic jungle lodges and natural living.

💼 8. Practical Travel Tips for Malaysians

Let’s make your trip smooth-smooth macam Teh Tarik 🧳✨

🎯 9. Final Thoughts: Why Medan is Worth It (And Then Some)

A lot of people treat Medan like a pit stop — a place to pass through on the way to Lake Toba. But if you take the time to explore, makan, and get to know the people — you’ll realise Medan has its own soul. ❤️

You get a mix of cultures (Batak, Chinese, Malay, Javanese), a full-on food adventure, hidden architecture, quirky museums, volcanoes, waterfalls, jungle, and warm, genuine people.

And all of that? Just a 1-hour flight from KL. You can even do a long weekend trip if you plan properly. ✈️

So next time someone says, “Medan? Nak buat apa kat sana?”
You’ll know exactly what to say. 😉