7 days in Bandung, Indonesia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Meet Bandung, Indonesia: a vibrant city surrounded by lush greenery, volcanic mountains, and striking colonial architecture. Known as the “Paris of Java,” Bandung is a fashion capital and a shopper’s paradise, with no shortage of local markets, boutiques, and factory outlets to explore. A culinary adventure awaits at every street corner, with some of the country’s most famous dishes, like Nasi Timbel, being born right in this city. If nature is what you crave, Bandung offers a stunning array of options, from the misty forests of Lembang to the enchanting multicolored Kawah Putih crater lake.
Things to consider before arriving in Bandung
Affordable travel destination
Friendly and welcoming locals
Traffic congestion in the city center
Best suited for food lovers, bargain hunters, and nature enthusiasts
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and its natural attractions
2. Light, breathable clothing for the warm climate
3. A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while on the go
4. A small umbrella or rain jacket for unexpected showers
5. Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Bandung is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. This period offers a pleasant climate with less rain, making it perfect for outdoor sightseeing and activities.
How to get to Bandung
1. By air: Fly into Husein Sastranegara International Airport (BDO), located just 4 km from the city center. Several domestic airlines have frequent flights to Bandung from major cities like Jakarta and Surabaya.
2. By train: The Bandung Railway station is well connected with cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya. Traveling by train offers scenic views on the way, especially if coming from Jakarta.
3. By bus: Bandung has several bus stations, with buses connecting to cities across Java. The Cicaheum and Leuwi Panjang bus terminals serve as the main entry points when arriving by bus.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Bandung, Indonesia
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City
Welcome to Bandung! Start your day by having a traditional breakfast at Sate Maulana Yusuf, serving the best beef and chicken Satay in the city. After filling your stomach, take a stroll around the city center and explore Braga Street, where you’ll find plenty of street art, cafes, and shops. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Gedung Sate, a government building with a unique architectural style. End your day by experiencing the city’s nightlife at Punclut, where you can enjoy dinner with a stunning city view.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure
Get outside and escape the city with a nature adventure at Tangkuban Perahu, a nearby volcano that offers a scenic hiking trail. After a morning hike, head to Ciater Tea Plantation to relax in hot springs surrounded by tea fields. End your day with a visit to Kampung Gajah Wonderland, a theme park that offers fun rides and a beautiful view of Bandung.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion
Take a deep dive into the local culture by visiting Saung Angklung Udjo, a cultural center where you can watch traditional dances and music performances. After enjoying a traditional lunch, head to Jalan Cihampelas, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. End your day by enjoying a traditional Indonesian dinner at Kedai Linggarjati, where you’ll get a taste of local cuisine.
Day 4: Day Trip to Pangandaran Beach
Take a break from the city and head south to Pangandaran Beach, a popular destination for beach lovers. Spend the day sunbathing and swimming, or try your hand at surfing. End your day with a seafood dinner at Warung Ampera, where you can taste delicious grilled fish and coconut shrimp.
Day 5: Art Scene
Explore the thriving art scene in Bandung by visiting Selasar Sunaryo Art Space, a contemporary art museum that features local artists’ works. After lunch, head to Dago Pakar, a scenic hill area where you’ll find plenty of art galleries, cafes, and shops. End your day by attending a traditional Sundanese Wayang Golek puppet show at Gedung Wayang Golek.
Day 6: Day Trip to Kawah Putih
Take a day trip to Kawah Putih, an otherworldly crater lake located south of Bandung. Enjoy the breathtaking view and take a short hike around the crater. On your way back, stop by Situ Patenggang, a stunning lake that offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as kayaking and fishing.
Day 7: City Sightseeing
On your last day, explore some of the city’s hidden gems, such as the Gedung Merdeka, a historical building that served as the venue for the Asia Africa Conference. After lunch, visit Cikapundung Creative Industry Center, where you can find unique handmade products and learn about local craft. End your last day with a cup of coffee at Two Hands Full, a cozy cafe with a beautiful interior design.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Bandung
If you still have time to explore more of Indonesia, we recommend visiting Yogyakarta, a city located east of Bandung. Yogyakarta offers a unique cultural experience, with impressive temples such as Borobudur and Prambanan. Alternatively, you can visit Bali, a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Both cities can be reached by plane from Bandung, with multiple flights available daily.
