More about hotels in Medan
Your Complete Guide to Hotels in Medan
Medan is the vibrant capital of North Sumatra and one of the most exciting cities in Indonesia for Singaporean travellers. As the gateway to the stunning Lake Toba, the lush jungles of Bukit Lawang, and the cool highlands of Berastagi, Medan serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of North Sumatra. The city itself offers a rich cultural tapestry, incredible food, and colonial-era architecture that reflects its diverse heritage. Booking your Medan hotel through Traveloka gives you access to over 800 properties with instant confirmation and the best price guarantee.
Medan is particularly popular with Singaporean travellers thanks to its proximity — a short flight of just over an hour connects the two cities. The food scene alone is reason enough to visit, with Medan widely regarded as having some of the best cuisine in Indonesia. From the iconic Bika Ambon to flavourful Soto Medan and rich Nasi Padang, your taste buds will be in for a treat. Hotels in Medan offer excellent value, with quality rooms starting from just SGD 14 per night, making it an affordable getaway for budget-conscious Singaporean travellers.
Best Areas to Stay in Medan
Medan City Centre
The city centre around Merdeka Walk and Lapangan Merdeka is the most convenient area for first-time visitors. It is home to key landmarks like the Grand Mosque, Maimun Palace, and various shopping centres. Hotels here range from budget options at SGD 14 per night to upscale properties at SGD 80 to SGD 150 per night. The central location provides easy access to restaurants, attractions, and transport hubs.
Kesawan and Polonia Area
The Kesawan area is the historic heart of Medan, featuring beautiful colonial buildings and the famous Tjong A Fie Mansion. The nearby Polonia area, where the old airport used to be, has been developed into a modern district with shopping malls and hotels. Mid-range to upscale hotels in this area cost between SGD 30 and SGD 120 per night.
Sun Plaza and Thamrin Area
This commercial district is popular with shoppers and business travellers. Sun Plaza is one of Medan's largest shopping malls, and the surrounding area has a good selection of mid-range hotels priced between SGD 25 and SGD 70 per night. It is well-connected to other parts of the city by public transport and ride-hailing services.
Near Kualanamu International Airport
If you have an early flight or late arrival, staying near Kualanamu International Airport is practical. Several hotels near the airport offer comfortable rooms between SGD 20 and SGD 60 per night. The airport is about 40 kilometres from the city centre, connected by the Kualanamu Airport Rail Link.
Hotel Prices in Medan by Star Rating
Medan offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget. Budget hotels and guesthouses (1-2 stars) typically cost between SGD 10 and SGD 25 per night, providing basic clean rooms with air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Mid-range hotels (3 stars) range from SGD 25 to SGD 55 per night and usually include breakfast, swimming pools, and decent facilities. Upper mid-range hotels (4 stars) cost between SGD 50 and SGD 120 per night, offering premium amenities including fitness centres, spas, and business facilities. Luxury 5-star hotels range from SGD 100 to SGD 250 per night, featuring world-class service, multiple restaurants, and elegant rooms. For Singaporean travellers, even the top-tier hotels in Medan are significantly more affordable than comparable properties in Singapore.
Top Hotels in Medan for Singapore Travellers
JW Marriott Medan
The premier luxury hotel in Medan, the JW Marriott offers world-class service, elegant rooms, an outdoor infinity pool, a full-service spa, and multiple dining venues. Located in the city centre, it is a favourite among Singaporean business travellers and those seeking a premium stay.
Grand Aston City Hall Medan
A well-appointed 4-star hotel offering spacious rooms, a rooftop pool with city views, and excellent service. Its central location near Lapangan Merdeka makes it convenient for sightseeing. It provides great value for Singaporean travellers seeking comfort without the top-tier price tag.
Aryaduta Medan
A reputable 5-star hotel with a long history in Medan. It features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, multiple dining options, and a strategic location in the city centre. Singaporean travellers appreciate its reliable service and proximity to key attractions.
Karibia Boutique Hotel
A popular mid-range option offering good value with modern rooms, a water park, and family-friendly facilities. It is especially popular with Singaporean families travelling with children who want entertainment options within the hotel.
Best Time to Visit Medan
Medan has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, averaging 26 to 33 degrees Celsius. The city receives rainfall year-round, but the drier months are from May to September, which is the best time to visit for outdoor activities and excursions to Lake Toba or Bukit Lawang. The wetter months from October to January see heavier rainfall, though showers are often short-lived. Singaporean travellers will find the climate similar to home. Hotel prices in Medan remain relatively stable throughout the year, though booking in advance during Indonesian public holidays such as Lebaran (Eid) is essential as hotels fill up quickly. For the best hotel deals, consider visiting during weekdays when rates tend to be lower than weekends.
Getting to Medan from Singapore
By Air
Direct flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Kualanamu International Airport in Medan take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Multiple airlines operate this route daily, with return flights typically costing between SGD 100 and SGD 280 depending on the airline and booking period. This makes Medan one of the closest and most affordable international destinations from Singapore.
Airport Transfer to City Centre
Kualanamu International Airport is located approximately 40 kilometres from Medan city centre. The Kualanamu Airport Rail Link connects the airport to Medan Station in about 30 to 45 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are available for the journey, which takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic. Pre-booking airport transfers through Traveloka is a hassle-free option.
By Ferry
While less common, some travellers take a ferry from Singapore or Batam to Belawan Port in Medan. However, this route is less frequently used today as direct flights are more convenient and often comparably priced. Flying remains the recommended option for most Singaporean travellers.
Top Attractions in Medan and Surroundings
Lake Toba
The crown jewel of North Sumatra, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world. Located about 4 to 5 hours from Medan by car, it is a must-visit destination. Samosir Island in the middle of the lake offers stunning scenery, Batak cultural experiences, and a serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city.
Bukit Lawang
A small village on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park, Bukit Lawang is famous for orangutan trekking. Located about 3 hours from Medan, it offers the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Guided jungle treks are the main activity here.
Maimun Palace
A grand palace built in 1888 by the Sultan of Deli, Maimun Palace showcases a unique blend of Malay, Mughal, and European architectural styles. Visitors can explore the throne room and learn about the Malay royal heritage of Medan.
Grand Mosque of Medan
Also known as Masjid Raya Al-Mashun, this stunning mosque was built in 1906 and features Moroccan-inspired architecture with Italian marble interiors. It is one of the most beautiful and historically significant buildings in Medan.
Tjong A Fie Mansion
A beautifully preserved heritage mansion that once belonged to a prominent Chinese businessman in Medan. The mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into the multicultural history of the city and is a popular attraction for heritage-loving Singaporean travellers.
Tips for Booking Hotels in Medan
To secure the best hotel deals in Medan, book through Traveloka at least two to three weeks in advance. If you plan to use Medan as a base for excursions to Lake Toba or Bukit Lawang, consider staying one or two nights in the city before heading out to these destinations. Choose a centrally located hotel to maximise your time exploring the city's food scene and cultural landmarks. Many hotels in Medan include breakfast, which is a great way to start your day with local dishes. Check Traveloka for bundle deals that combine flights and hotels for extra savings. Read recent guest reviews on Traveloka for up-to-date feedback on hotel conditions and service quality. For families, look for hotels with pools and kid-friendly facilities, as Medan has several excellent options in this category.
