Trendy Tourist Spots in Medan

 

Monday, 14 September 2026

 

Medan is one of the busiest cities in North Sumatra, but it is not only a place to pass through before heading to Lake Toba. The city and its surrounding areas offer plenty of interesting places for travelers who want to explore, take photos, enjoy local culture, and experience something different.

For visitors looking for trendy tourist spots, Medan can be a fun starting point for exploring North Sumatra.

Explore Medan City

One easy way to discover the city is through a sightseeing tour. Visitors can explore some of Medan’s landmarks while learning more about the city’s history and culture.

The city has several interesting religious and historical buildings. Masjid Raya Al-Mashun, for example, is one of the attractions listed among North Sumatra’s top sights. Vihara Gunung Timur and Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni are also included in popular sightseeing options.

These places are interesting for travelers who enjoy architecture and photography. Each location has its own visual character, making them worth adding to a city exploration itinerary.

Take a Trip to Lake Toba

If you have more time, a trip from Medan to Lake Toba can be another exciting option. GetYourGuide lists several tours departing from Medan that take travelers toward the Lake Toba area.

One popular type of trip combines Lake Toba with Sipiso-Piso Waterfall. The journey offers mountain scenery, viewpoints, and opportunities to see the dramatic landscape around North Sumatra.

Sipiso-Piso Waterfall is especially interesting for travelers who enjoy nature and photography. The waterfall drops into a green valley, creating a dramatic landscape that can make a great addition to your travel photos.

Enjoy a Mountain Adventure

For travelers who prefer outdoor activities, Mount Sibayak is another option. Several tours from Medan take visitors toward Berastagi for a sunrise hike.

Watching the sunrise from a mountain can be a memorable experience. Besides the hiking adventure, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and landscapes. Some tours also combine the hike with a visit to a natural hot spring, making the trip more relaxing after the climb.

Discover Nature and Wildlife

Medan can also be used as a starting point for exploring North Sumatra’s wildlife. GetYourGuide features several trips from Medan to Mount Leuser National Park and Bukit Lawang.

Bukit Lawang is known for its jungle experiences and opportunities to see Sumatran orangutans. Travelers can join jungle walks, wildlife tours, and camping experiences.

For people who enjoy photography, these activities can provide something very different from ordinary city sightseeing. Instead of buildings and streets, you can capture rainforest landscapes, rivers, and wildlife.

Make Medan Your Starting Point

The best thing about visiting Medan is that the city can be both a destination and a starting point for wider adventures. You can spend a day exploring landmarks in the city, then continue toward mountains, waterfalls, Lake Toba, or rainforest areas.

So, if you are looking for trendy and interesting tourist spots in Medan, do not limit your trip to the city center. Combine urban sightseeing with nature and adventure, and you can experience a much wider side of North Sumatra.