Places to Visit in Bandung, Indonesia

Brief Summary
Known as the “Paris of Java,” Bandung in Indonesia is famous for its cool climate, colonial architecture, scenic tea plantations, and vibrant shopping outlets. Located just a few hours from Jakarta, it’s a popular weekend getaway for both locals and international travelers. This guide highlights the top attractions, travel tips, and how to stay connected during your trip to Bandung.

About Bandung

Bandung is the capital of West Java and a cultural, educational, and commercial hub. It’s surrounded by mountains and is known for its creative scene, outlet shopping, and natural attractions such as volcanic craters and waterfalls. For travelers from Singapore, Bandung offers a refreshing escape from the heat with a unique blend of nature and urban charm.

Quick Facts Table

Stay Connected While Travelling to Bandung

Reliable connectivity is key when exploring Bandung’s highlands, shopping streets, and nearby volcanoes. With Circles.Life Borderless Plans, you can skip unreliable Wi-Fi and pricey airport SIMs, enjoying instant data from the moment you land.

Before you choose a plan, you may want to compare data roaming plans in Singapore to see how Circles.Life stacks up. Travelers can also explore guides like StarHub vs Circles.Life roaming plans or Singtel vs Circles.Life roaming plans to make an informed decision.

SIM Only and eSIM Plans for Indonesia

Last updated on: 22 September 2025

Steps to Activate Circles.Life Roaming for Bandung

1. Open the Circles.Life app.

2. Go to Roaming & Data Plans.

3. Choose your preferred plan and confirm payment.

4. Activate when you land at Husein Sastranegara International Airport (BDO).

For more insights, check out our guide to international connectivity and a detailed breakdown of travel eSIM vs international roaming.

Top Attractions in Bandung You Shouldn’t Miss

Bandung offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and modern shopping. Here are some highlights:

Tangkuban Perahu Volcano

A stratovolcano just north of the city, famous for its scenic craters and legends from Sundanese folklore.

• Location: ~30 km from Bandung

• Entry Fee: ~IDR 200,000 (SGD 18) for foreign visitors

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Why Visit: Dramatic volcanic scenery and panoramic views make it one of Bandung’s top attractions.

Kawah Putih (White Crater)

A surreal volcanic crater lake with turquoise waters set against white sulphuric cliffs.

• Location: Ciwidey, ~50 km south of Bandung

• Entry Fee: ~IDR 75,000 (SGD 6.50)

• Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Why Visit: A breathtaking natural wonder, perfect for photography and day trips.

Trans Studio Bandung

One of the world’s largest indoor theme parks, offering thrilling rides, family attractions, and live performances.

• Location: Central Bandung

• Entry Fee: ~IDR 200,000–300,000 (SGD 18–27) depending on day

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: Great for families and thrill-seekers looking for entertainment in all weather.

Braga Street (Jalan Braga)

A historic street lined with colonial-era buildings, cafés, boutiques, and art shops.

• Location: Central Bandung

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: Open all day, evenings are most lively

• Why Visit: Perfect for a leisurely stroll, photography, and experiencing Bandung’s vintage charm.

Tea Plantations in Lembang

Expansive tea estates set against rolling hills, offering guided tours and scenic views.

• Location: Lembang, ~20 km north of Bandung

• Entry Fee: ~IDR 30,000 (SGD 2.60)

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Why Visit: Learn about tea production while enjoying a refreshing escape from the city.

Saung Angklung Udjo

A cultural center showcasing traditional Sundanese music and performances featuring the angklung, a bamboo instrument recognized by UNESCO.

• Location: East Bandung

• Entry Fee: ~IDR 100,000 (SGD 9)

• Timings: Performances usually at 3:30 PM daily

• Why Visit: A unique chance to experience Bandung’s cultural heritage and even try playing the angklung yourself.

Bandung: What to Know Before You Go

How to Get to Bandung

Bandung is served by Husein Sastranegara International Airport (BDO), with direct flights from Singapore taking about 2 hours. Another option is to fly into Jakarta’s Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK) and take a train or private car, which takes around 3–4 hours depending on traffic. The train ride from Jakarta to Bandung is especially scenic, passing through rice fields and mountains.

Getting Around Bandung

Central Bandung is relatively compact, but for exploring the highlands and attractions outside the city, transportation is essential. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are widely used. Renting a car with a driver is a popular option for day trips to Kawah Putih, tea plantations, or volcanoes. For a local experience, try angkot (public minibuses), though they can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Best Time to Visit Bandung

Thanks to its highland location, Bandung has a cooler climate than most Indonesian cities. The dry season (May to September) is the best time to visit, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The rainy season (October to April) can bring heavy showers, though mornings often remain clear. Weekends tend to be busier as many Jakartans escape to Bandung for short getaways.

Where to Stay in Bandung

• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses near Braga Street or Dago.

• Mid-range: Boutique hotels and family stays around Cihampelas and Lembang.

• Luxury: Resorts with mountain views in Lembang or Ciwidey, ideal for a relaxing retreat.

Book your accommodation with Agoda discounts from Circles.Life to save on hotel stays while enjoying a seamless booking experience.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Make the most of your Bandung adventure with these practical travel tips:

• Stay connected with a local SIM or eSIM. For flexibility, check out the differences between travel eSIM vs roaming vs local SIM.

• Carry a power bank. Long day trips to Kawah Putih or Lembang can drain your devices quickly.

• Cash vs. card usage. Credit cards are accepted in malls and hotels, but you’ll need cash for markets, street food, and angkot rides.

• Download essential apps. Grab and Gojek for transport, Google Maps for navigation, and Klook for activity bookings will make your trip smooth.

Travel Smart – Get Roaming Plans Before Travel

Travelers who don’t prepare a roaming plan often face high bills, patchy Wi-Fi, or last-minute SIM purchases at the airport. Avoid the hassle by choosing Circles.Life’s Borderless Plans.

If you’re not sure which plan suits you best, you can compare data roaming plans in Singapore or read our breakdown of StarHub vs Circles.Life roaming plans and Singtel vs Circles.Life roaming plans. For more insights, check our guide to international connectivity.