Pekanbaru,
Pekanbaru is the capital city of Riau province in Indonesia. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with traditional music and dance performances held regularly. The city is also a hub for the oil and gas industry, with many companies operating in the area.
Pekanbaru is home to beautiful parks and green spaces, offering residents and visitors a relaxing escape from city life.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Maaf" - Sorry
- "Sampai jumpa" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Cultural Heritage
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Sang Nila Utama Museum to learn about the history and culture of Riau.
afternoon:Head to the Adityawarman Museum to explore the traditional and contemporary art of this region. Don't forget to visit the museum cafe for a delicious lunch.
evening:Experience traditional Indonesian cuisine at Sederhana Restaurant, followed by an evening stroll along the Siak River.
Nature and Wildlife Adventure
morning:Embark on a trek through the Tesso Nilo National Park to witness the incredible biodiversity of Sumatra.
afternoon:Join a guided tour of the Riau Elephant Training Center and interact with these majestic creatures.
evening:Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Padang Merdeka and then spend the evening at Purnama Beach to witness the sunset.
Culinary Delights and Local Markets
morning:Visit Pasar Bawah for a vibrant and authentic Indonesian market experience, where you can sample local snacks and delicacies.
afternoon:Explore the traditional market at Pasar Rakyat and immerse yourself in the local culture. Grab a quick bite at one of the street food stalls.
evening:Savor a delightful dinner at Rumah Makan Islamiyah and then head to the Pekanbaru Night Market for an exciting culinary adventure.
Cityscape and Shopping Extravaganza
morning:Take a walking tour around the downtown area to witness the bustling city life and explore the iconic buildings and landmarks.
afternoon:Indulge in a shopping spree at Mall Pekanbaru, where you can find a variety of local and international brands.
evening:Dine at RM Garuda for an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine. Afterward, experience the vibrant nightlife at the SKY Lounge and Bar.
Pekanbaru Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Laksa Pekanbaru
A savory noodle soup with a rich and spicy coconut milk-based broth, often topped with prawns, eggs, and fresh herbs. Try it at the bustling Pasar Bawah market.
Must-Try!
Rendang
A slow-cooked, flavorful beef dish rich in spices like galangal, ginger, and lemongrass. Look for this signature Minangkabau dish at Rumah Makan Padang Pariaman.
Pecal
A vibrant salad of mixed vegetables with a peanut sauce dressing, offering a refreshing and flavorful option. Sample it at street food stalls along Jalan Diponegoro.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Pasar Bawah
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local delicacies including fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls offering an array of flavors and textures.
Simpang Tiga Night Market
A lively night market where you can dive into a flavorful world of local street food, from grilled satay to sweet treats like martabak and es teler.
Pet sitters in Pekanbaru
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!