Bandung getaway guide: Best places to visit, eat, shop and pay like a local

Known as the Paris of Java, Bandung offers a blend of cool highland climate, lush scenery, colonial charm, and a thriving urban scene. Whether you’re driving from Jakarta, taking the high-speed train, or flying in directly, this West Javanese city is a favourite weekend escape for both locals and tourists.". Surrounded by green hills and colourful flower gardens, Bandung is packed with natural wonders, vibrant culture, and culinary delights. 

Here are the best places to visit in Bandung, along with helpful Bandung travel tips to make the most of your experience—and how to do it the cashless  way. 

Tangkuban Perahu: The iconic crater of West Java

(Credits: Niney Azman | Shutterstock)

Tangkuban Perahu is one of Bandung’s most famous natural attractions, located about 30km north of the city. This active volcano is best known for its massive crater and mythical legend of Sangkuriang, a tale deeply rooted in Sundanese folklore. 

Visitors can walk right up to the rim of the main crater, where steaming sulphur vents and rugged grey landscapes create an otherworldly atmosphere. The temperature is noticeably cooler here, with fresh mountain air and occasional mists drifting through. Stalls near the viewing area sell local snacks, volcanic souvenirs and handmade crafts. Light jackets and sturdy walking shoes are recommended due to the chilly weather and uneven paths. 

Rancabali Tea Plantation: Lush landscapes and hot springs

(Credits: Slamet Harijono | Flickr) 

For a peaceful escape from the city, the Rancabali Tea Plantation in South Bandung is a top choice. The plantation stretches across gentle hills covered in vivid green tea bushes, offering postcard-worthy views and a tranquil environment. 

Guided tours are available at the nearby Walini Tea Factory, where visitors can learn about tea production and sample freshly brewed teas. Just minutes away, the Ciwalini Hot Springs provide a relaxing soak in naturally warm water pools, surrounded by misty tea fields and forested slopes. This area is ideal for those looking to reconnect with nature or enjoy a laid-back day out.

Braga street: Colonial charm and urban energy 

(Credits: Teja on the Horizon) 

Braga Street is one of Bandung’s most recognisable destinations, combining old-world architecture with a lively urban vibe. Once known as the city’s European district during the Dutch colonial era, today it remains a cultural hotspot filled with art, cafés, boutiques and street performances. 

The street is lined with well-preserved colonial buildings, many of which now house coffee shops, art galleries and small fashion stores. Vibrant murals and graffiti add a modern twist, making it a popular area for photography and casual strolls. Local foods such as batagor (fried fish dumplings), siomay (steamed fish dumplings) and nasi timbel (rice wrapped in banana leaf with side dishes) can be found at both restaurants and roadside stalls along the way. 

Taste Bandung’s local favourites: Batagor Kingsley and Tiramisusu By Chocomory

No trip to Bandung is complete without sampling its local flavours, and two must-try spots stand out for both taste and convenience. Batagor Kingsley, a legendary eatery in the heart of the city, is famous for both its batagor  served with a rich peanut sauce, as well as their siomay — perfect for anyone craving for a softer bite. Other crowd favourites include yamien (springy noodles in sweet and savoury sauce) and bakso (tender beef meatballs in broth), all served at reasonable prices.  

For dessert, head over to Tiramisusu by Chocomory on Braga Street.  A short 10-minute drive from Batagor Kingsley, Tiramisusu is known for its signature “6 Layers of Happiness”, which is a reimagination of the classic tiramisu with fluffy sponge cake, creamy mousse layers, and a crunchy crumble topping. It’s not just a sweet treat but also a trendy souvenir to take home.  

Sudirman street market: Culinary exploration day and night 

(Credits: Nur Putri Dalimunthe | Idetrips) 

Sudirman Street is one of Bandung’s most popular culinary strips, especially after dark when the area transforms into a buzzing night market. Just ten minutes from the city centre, it features a wide selection of food stalls offering everything from Chinese Indonesian dishes to traditional street snacks. 

Top items to try include pork satay, mie rica (spicy noodles), nasi campur (mixed rice), bakso, martabak and pempek (fried fish cakes). Prices are affordable, typically between RM5 to RM10 per dish, making this an excellent spot to explore the diversity of Indonesian street food.

Bandung travel tips: Go cashless and travel smarter with TNG eWallet 

One of the best travel tips for Malaysians visiting Bandung is to go cashless with TNG eWallet. With the Overseas QR payment feature, you can make seamless transactions at most cafés, restaurants, convenience stores, and even local food stalls (including those listed in this guide) across Indonesia by simply scanning the QRIS code. Payment is made in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) with real-time currency conversion and no extra convenience fee.  

Popular outlets like Kopi Kenangan, JCO Donuts, Mie Gacoan, Pizza Hut, and Uniqlo all accept QRIS payments, along with many smaller businesses and street vendors — making it easier to enjoy Bandung's culinary scene and retail offerings without fumbling for cash.

Alternatively, you can also use your TNG eWallet Visa Card for card payments at outlets that accepts card payment, giving you even more flexibility throughout your trip.

To stay connected during your travels, the TNG eWallet’s Travel eSIM provides reliable mobile internet in Indonesia without the hassle of physical SIM cards. Whether you’re using maps, booking rides, or posting your Bandung adventures online, it keeps you connected on the go.  

And for added peace of mind during your travels, activate TNG eWallet’s SafeTrip travel insurance, which covers medical emergencies, travel delays and other unexpected incidents — so you can explore with confidence. 

From misty volcanic landscapes and peaceful tea plantations to vibrant shopping streets and flavour-packed street food, Bandung offers something for every kind of traveller. With smart tools like TNG eWallet, Travel eSIM, SafeTrip, and the TNG eWallet Visa card, exploring one of Indonesia’s best travel destinations becomes easier, safer and more rewarding. 

If you’re looking for a simple way to experience the highlights, consider a 2D1N Bandung Highlights Tour that includes the volcano, hot springs and a stroll through the charming streets of Braga — perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time.