Welcome to Banda Aceh, a city on the northern tip of Sumatra, Indonesia, where history, culture, and resilience converge. As a tour operator eager to showcase the wonders of Sumatra, let’s embark on a journey through Banda Aceh, a destination with a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

While most travellers just pass this city en route to Pulau Weh, we strongly recommend staying here for a night or two to explore the city. When arriving here, you may notice that the city is rather clean and the traffic is very moderat compared to the crazy traffic in Medan. In this travel guide we give you everything you need to know about Banda Aceh.

Information about Banda Aceh

Things to know in advance

Banda Aceh, the capital of the Indonesian province of Aceh, is a fascinating destination full of culture, history and natural beauty. Known for its rich, centuries-old past, the city is an important gateway to Sumatra and serves as a gateway to the paradise island of Pulau Weh. Banda Aceh is deeply connected to Islam and places great emphasis on adherence to Sharia law, which means some peculiarities in interaction and behaviour for travellers (see section below).

Most travellers only use Banda Aceh for their onward journey to Pulau Weh, but a 1-2 day stay is worthwhile. Sights such as the magnificent Baiturrahman Mosque and the Tsunami Museum offer fascinating insights into the culture and eventful history of the region, which was shaken by a severe tsunami in 2004. Whether visiting temples, diving adventures or experiencing the unique local cuisine – Banda Aceh is an unforgettable destination for curious travellers.

Orientation

Banda Aceh is very large if you take a look at it on Google Maps. The busiest areas are around the city centre and the iconic Baiturrahman Mosque. Here you will find a variety of restaurants, shops and cafés serving traditional Indonesian food and local specialities. Especially along Jalan Mohammad Jam, Jalan Ahmad Yani and Jalan Panglima Polem, there are many dining options, from traditional restaurants to modern cafés.

How touristy is Banda Aceh?

Compared to other Indonesian cities such as Bali or Jakarta, Banda Aceh is still relatively less touristy, which adds to its charm. The city has a strong local culture and little commercial infrastructure for international visitors, which allows authentic insights into the daily life of the population. Most tourists who visit Banda Aceh are travelling through to the nearby diving and swimming paradises such as Pulau Weh. However, the tourism industry is growing, especially since the Tsunami Museum and the impressive Baiturrahman Mosque have received more international attention. Nevertheless, travellers should be prepared to travel in a more traditional environment and show respect for local customs and rules, including Sharia law. It may also be the case that not all locals speak English.

Tsunami of 2004

While exploring Banda Aceh, take a moment to reflect on the devastating tsunami of 2004. Around 150,000 people were killed in the Tsunami and probably everone you will meet has been affected one way or another. The city has been fully rebuilt, and the Museum Tsunami Aceh serves as a somber reminder of the resilience and strength of the local community. Read more here.

Getting there and around

Getting There

Banda Aceh is easily accessible by air, with Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport connecting the city to major hubs across Indonesia as well as Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Airlines like Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air operate regular flights to and from Banda Aceh. Apart rom flying, there are also a (night) busses from Medan that takes around 10-12h. Tickets can be booked online or at the bus station.

Getting Around

Upon arrival, you’ll find various transportation options to explore the city. Taxis and apps like Grab or Gojek are the most convenient option to get around Banda Aceh. The city is also known for its vibrant becak (tuktuk) culture, providing a unique and eco-friendly way to navigate the streets. Banda Aceh also has a public bus system that connects many parts of the city. The buses are cheap, but often crowded. However, as far as we know, there is no route map or schedule whatsoever. So it is best to ask your accommodation.

Practical tips for Banda Aceh

Sharia Law

Banda Aceh is known for its adherence to Sharia law and it can be a bit scary for tourists. Sharia law, often referred to simply as Sharia, is a set of Islamic principles and guidelines derived from the Quran (the holy book of Islam) and the Sunnah (the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad). It serves as a comprehensive moral and legal framework governing various aspects of Muslim life, including personal conduct, family matters, business transactions, and criminal justice.

It’s important to understand that Sharia law is deeply rooted in Islamic theology and tradition, and its interpretation and application continue to evolve in response to changing societal norms and circumstances. While it remains a significant aspect of Islamic jurisprudence, its implementation varies across different cultures and contexts.

Non married couples are not allowed to stay in one room in some hotels. However, this sometimes does not apply for foreign tourists. As far as we know Seventeen Hotel allows unmarried couples to stay together. To be sure, please contact the hotel beforehand. Furthermore acts of affection, like kissing or holding hands, should be avoided when roaming around the city.

Most shops and sights are closed on Fridays as well as during praying times in the evening.

Dress Code and Pack List

You can find a general pack list for Sumatra here.

While the atmosphere in Banda Aceh is generally tolerant, visitors should be respectful of local customs. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. That means long pants and long shirts, especially for women. Women have to wear a headscarf when entering mosques. When visiting the Grand Mosque you can rent a full body cape. Swimming in a bikini on the beach is forbidden, for hotel pools please check the hotel’s guidelines or ask the staff to be sure.

Where to Stay in Banda Aceh

Choose from a range of accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets.

• Luxury Hotels: Experience ultimate comfort and hospitality at luxury hotels such as Hermes Palace Hotel and Grand Arabia Hotel.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Hotels like the Favehotel, Parkside Alhambra Hotel Banda Aceh and Hotel 61 provide comfortable accommodations at affordable prices.
• Guesthouses and Homestays: For a more authentic experience, consider staying at guesthouses or homestays where you can interact with locals and learn about Acehnese culture firsthand.

Money

Cash is the most common form of payment in Banda Aceh, especially in small shops, markets and street food stalls. Larger hotels and some modern restaurants generally accept credit cards, but outside of these places, cash is often the only form of payment accepted. Cash machines (ATMs) are available in the city, especially in the city centre and shopping areas. These generally accept international credit and debit cards, but it is advisable to always carry some cash with you, as not every ATM works reliably or accepts foreign cards. It is also advisable to withdraw smaller amounts, as large notes can be difficult to change and many smaller retailers have limited change.

Medical care

Medical care in Banda Aceh is rather basic compared to Western standards, but there are some well-equipped hospitals and clinics, especially in the city centre. The ‘Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Zainoel Abidin’ is the largest hospital in the region and offers a wide range of medical services. However, travellers should note that English language skills of medical staff may be limited and it is advisable to organise an interpreter if needed. Pharmacies (Apotek) are also widely available in Banda Aceh and well stocked with basic medicines. For serious emergencies or specialised treatment, it is advisable to consult your travel insurance company, as it may be necessary to transfer abroad. A well-stocked first-aid kit and comprehensive international health insurance are therefore highly recommended for travellers to Banda Aceh.

Religion

Religion plays a central role in Banda Aceh, as the region is the only one in Indonesia to officially apply Sharia – Islamic law. Islam is deeply rooted in the culture and the majority of the population is Muslim. This religious influence can be seen in many areas of daily life, from dress codes to social norms and rules of behaviour that are also relevant for travellers.

Crime and safety

There is no destination without problems. It is therefore always advisable to be vigilant. Do not carry too much cash with you and it is better to go out in pairs in the dark.

SIM cards and WLAN

It seems that Indonesia is much more developed when it comes to Wi-Fi and mobile data. Almost every kiosk, warung or accommodation in Banda Aceh offers free and good wifi.

The purchase of sim cards has changed in recent years. To be able to use a local sim card, you have to register your mobile phone and Imei number. This can only be done in Telkomsel or Grapari shops in Banda Aceh. Your taxi driver can certainly stop there too.

Read also: Guide to Using a SIM Card in Sumatra: Staying Connected While Traveling

Sockets & adapters

In Sumatra, there are type C sockets, also known as the standard Euro socket, and type F sockets, also known as Schuko. Travellers from Germany do not need an adapter. For everyone else, it is advisable to buy a travel adapter in advance, but you can also purchase one in Sumatra.

Laundry

Most hotels offer a laundry service, usually around IDR 30,000/kilo.

Sights & activities in Banda Aceh

• Baiturrahman Grand Mosque: A symbol of Banda Aceh’s resilience, this iconic mosque has withstood the test of time and stands as a testament to the city’s rich history.
• Museum Tsunami Aceh: Delve into the poignant history of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami at this quirky museum. It pays tribute to the lives lost and showcases the remarkable recovery efforts.
• Gunongan Historical Park: Explore the cultural and historical significance of this park, featuring ancient stone structures and the Gunongan, believed to be a monument built for a queen.
• Ulee Lheue Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of this picturesque beach, where you can enjoy stunning sunsets and fresh seafood from nearby eateries.
• Aceh Museum: Nice museum, where you can learn about the region’s history and see their traditionel Acenes houses.
• Museum PLTD Apung: A former ship that has been washed ashore by the tsunami in 2004 to its current location, now boasting a lively open air museum.
• Monumen Kapal Tsunami Lampulo: Another boat that has been washed ashor during the tsunami now located on the roof of a house.
  
• Surfing: While most surfers travel to the Mentawais or Nias, the beaches around Banda Aceh feature fine breaks for beginners and advanced surfers. Season is November to April. You can check out the beaches around Lhoknga.

Restaurants in Banda Aceh

Savor the unique flavors of Acehnese cuisine, renowned for its aromatic spices. Try local specialties like nasi goreng Aceh (Aceh fried rice), mie Aceh (Aceh noodles), and the flavorful Acehnese coffee. Many dishes have also been influenced by Arab, Persian, and Indian traders back in the days. Streetfood is also common and many street vendors roam the streets after sunset to sell mie goreng or sate skewers. Read more about the famous Acehnese cuisine.

Wood Beach Cafe is popular among foreign tourists for its vibes and food.

A must for street food lovers is the Peunayong Night Market, a lively street market that opens its stalls in the evening. Here you can savour fragrant dishes such as sate matang (a spicy meat dish), mie aceh (spicy fried noodles) and many other local delicacies. Pasar Aceh, the main market of Banda Aceh, is also worth a visit during the day and offers fresh ingredients, many food stalls and small restaurants that invite you to linger. These markets and street stalls provide an authentic insight into the culinary diversity of Aceh and make exploring the city particularly appealing.

Alcohol

Shopping in Banda Aceh

Shopping in Banda Aceh offers an interesting mix of modern shops and traditional markets. For everyday needs, chains such as Indomaret and Alfamart are widespread and offer everything you need for everyday life, from snacks and drinks to toiletries. If you are looking for clothes, you will find smaller fashion shops and boutiques, which usually offer inexpensive but often simple fashion and headscarves (hijabs). For authentic souvenirs, it is worth visiting the local markets, such as Pasar Aceh, where you can find handmade products and traditional handicrafts, including batik fabrics, Aceh ceramics and hand-carved woodwork. The Aceh Tsunami Museum Shop is also worth a visit and offers souvenirs, some of the proceeds of which go towards supporting the community. This way, travellers can not only take home a souvenir of their trip, but also support the local culture and handicrafts of the region.

Banda Aceh with children

Banda Aceh can offer an exciting experience for families with children, provided that the itinerary is adapted to the needs of the little ones. One highlight is the Tsunami Museum, which tells the story of the 2004 tsunami in an interactive way and can be an educational experience for children. Gunung Gede Park in the city centre offers playgrounds and green spaces where children can relax and play after a day of sightseeing. When visiting restaurants in Banda Aceh, it’s helpful to know that dishes are often spicy, so it’s worth asking for less spicy options or ‘non-spicy’ (tidak pedas in Indonesian). Hotels with pools offer cooling on hot days.

Do’s and Don’ts

In Banda Aceh, visitors should be aware of the local rules of behaviour, as Sharia law is applied here and religious traditions strongly influence daily life. Travellers should dress respectfully and modestly – for women this means long sleeves and trousers or skirts that are at least knee-length, and often a headscarf is also welcome. Men should also wear long trousers and a top with sleeves. In public, it is important to avoid displays of affection, as physical closeness between unmarried people is considered inappropriate. Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Banda Aceh, and smoking in public is also restricted. During prayer times, which take place five times a day, many shops close temporarily and loud noises or music should be avoided.