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Things to do in Banda Aceh range from exploring historical landmarks to experiencing rich cultural and natural beauty. Located at the northern tip of Sumatra, Banda Aceh is the capital of Aceh province and holds deep Islamic heritage. Rebuilt with strength and resilience after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the city is now a symbol of hope. Visitors can discover a mix of traditional architecture, religious sites, and scenic landscapes. With its significant history and spiritual atmosphere, Banda Aceh offers an enriching experience for those seeking culture and reflection.
Top 15 Things To Do In Banda Aceh
Here are a few things to do in Banda Aceh to have an amazing time exploring the history and culture of this place.
1. Visit The Aceh Tsunami Museum
Photo: Rachmat04 / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting the Aceh Tsunami museums is one of the best things to do in Banda Aceh because this is an interesting place which places tribute to nearly 170,000 people who lost their life during the 2004 Tsunami. This museum also has a library, educational media and stimulators that provide knowledge about the 2004 Tsunami and its impact in the entire City. There are different always resigned to represent various collections Memorial Hall and hallway displaying documentaries pictures and many more.
Location: Jl. Sultan Iskandar Muda No.3, Sukaramai, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23116, Indonesia
Timings: 9 AM – 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM – 2:45 PM
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2. Explore The Architecture Of Baiturrahman Grand Mosque
Photo: Si Gam Acèh / Wikimedia Commons
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque is one of the most visited places in Banda Aceh and ranks high among the things to see in Banda Aceh for its stunning Islamic architecture. Completed in 1881, it is one of the few structures that survived the 2004 tsunami and even served as a crisis center during that time. The mosque is admired for its striking design—white marble walls, black domes, and intricate detailing, which make it an architectural and spiritual highlight of the city.
Location: Jl. Moh. Jam No.1, Kp. Baru, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
Timings: 4:30 AM – 10 PM
3. Try Durian At Canai Mamak
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here / Image For Representation Only
Trying durian is one of the most interesting and best things to do in Banda Aceh. Canai Mamak is one of those places in Banda Aceh where a large population of tourists and locals go to try the durian fruit. This fruit does not have a pleasant smell and can be smelled from afar. But it is known to be loved by many or hated by many. This is a tropical fruit that has a creamy custard-like flesh that is popular in Southeast Asian cuisine.
Location: Jl. Teuku Umar No.51, Seutui, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23116, Indonesia
Timings: 8 AM – 11:30 PM
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4. Relax At Paula Weh
Photo: jiawei cui / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visiting Paula Weh is one of the best things to do in Banda Aceh, which is a beautiful place that is rich in its diverse ecosystem. A ferry ride from Banda Aceh is arranged every few hours to reach this place. It is a small island that is a perfect place to explore the underwater world, where there are a wide variety of tropical fish, coral reefs and many more.
Location: Banda Aceh, Banda Aceh City, Aceh, Indonesia
5. Enjoy Coffee At Warung Kopi Solong
Photo: NastyaSensei / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Warung Kopi Solong is one of the most famous places to try coffee in Banda Aceh. It is a must-visit place for all the coffee lovers, where they serve authentic robusta coffee. The workers in the shop also customize the preference according to the visitors. This place also provides breakfast and lunch in various ancient and Indonesian traditional cuisines, which are a must-try.
Location: 0708, Lamglumpang, Kec. Ulee Kareng, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23117, Indonesia
Timings: 6 AM – 11 PM
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7. Take A Tour Around The Pasar Aceh Market
Photo: Ricky Esquivel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Pasar Aceh market located in Banda Aceh is a traditional market that has various wooden shops with zinc roofs and narrow living spaces that have been directly exposed to the sunset with no other permanent building. This marketplace plays a major role in providing basic and daily needs for the local Acehnese people. This market has been existing since 1965 and started on the street that was built during the Dutch era.
Location: Jl. Pangeran Diponegoro, Kp. Baru, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23116, Indonesia
Timings: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
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8. Explore The Putro Phang Park
Photo: Si Gam / Wikimedia Commons
Putro Phang Park, which is also known as Gunongan Historical Park, is built on the grounds of a 17th-century palace garden, and this white circular place is known to have been built with a combination of Hindu and Islamic aesthetics, which has a sacred significance. But later it has become a leisure ground for the Acehnese royal family. There are also water fountains and fruit trees that are located in the garden, which is ideal for the tourists and locals to visit this place for a relaxing time or a picnic.
Location: Jl. Merapi No.37, Sukaramai, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23116, Indonesia
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
9. Visit Kerkhof Peucut Cemetery
Photo: Si Gam Acèh / Wikimedia Commons
Kerkhof Peucut, located in Banda Aceh, is a Dutch military cemetery for more than 2200 soldiers that died during the Aceh War that lasted from 1873 to 1914. This war is known to be the longest colonial war the Netherlands has ever conducted. It started when the Sultan of Aceh and his region’s people refused to be the subject of the Dutch, which killed 60,000 Acehnese. This symmetry is a well-maintained place with the collaboration of various Netherland donors and also the Acehnese officials.
Location: G8W7+PQ5, Peucut, Sukaramai, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23116, Indonesia
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
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10. Take A Tour Around The Sultan Iskandar Muda Tomb
Photo: Si Gam Acèh / Wikimedia Commons
Sultan Iskandar Muda Tomb, located in Banda Aceh, is a tomb that was built by the king of Aech, who belonged to the Aceh Darussalam Kingdom, that was brought during the golden age era. This kingdom was the fifth largest Islamic kingdom in the entire world nearly during the 16th century. This tomb is a must-visit to know about the great rule and the great power of Sultan Iskandar that is located near the Krueng Daroy River.
Location: G8WC+W8F, Gp. Peuniti, Baiturrahman, Peuniti, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23116, Indonesia
11. Visit The Aceh State Museum
Photo: Si Gam Acèh / Wikimedia Commons
Aceh State Museum is located in Banda Aceh and has various historical items and antiques representing the culture and heritage of Acehnese. This museum was built as a resemblance to the traditional house of Acehnese in the form of a stilt house at a height of 9 feet above the ground. The pillars in this house are made from a selected type of hardwood, with nearly 44 of them. This museum is also known to be one of the oldest museums that was established in 1915 in all of Indonesia.
Location: Jl. Sultan Mahmudsyah No.10, Peuniti, Kec. Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23116, Indonesia
Timings: 9 AM – 12 PM, 2 PM – 4 PM
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12. Catch The Sunset At Ulee Lheue Beach
Photo: Taufan Satyadharma / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
If you are looking for what to do in Banda Aceh to relax and enjoy natural beauty, catching the sunset at Ulee Lheue Beach is a must. This peaceful beach is located just a short drive from the city center and offers breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon. With calm waters and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for an evening stroll or quiet reflection. Locals and tourists alike gather here to unwind, making it a serene and memorable experience.
Location: H75P+W42, Ulee Lheue, Meuraxa, Banda Aceh City, Aceh, Indonesia
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
13. Shop For Handmade Souvenirs At Pasar Atjeh
Photo: Ricky Esquivel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Shopping for handmade souvenirs at Pasar Atjeh is one of the top places to visit in Banda Aceh for those interested in local culture. This vibrant market is filled with stalls offering traditional crafts, textiles, wooden carvings, and unique Islamic art pieces. It’s the perfect place to find meaningful keepsakes or gifts while experiencing the lively local atmosphere. Visitors can interact with friendly vendors, learn about Acehnese craftsmanship, and support small businesses. Pasar Atjeh blends shopping with cultural discovery in an authentic setting.
Location: Central Banda Aceh city near Pasar Atjeh
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
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14. Explore The Islamic Center Of Banda Aceh
Photo: astama81 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Exploring the Islamic Center of Banda Aceh is a rewarding experience for those interested in religion, culture, and architecture. As one of the prominent Banda Aceh attractions, the center features a modern design blended with traditional Islamic elements. It serves as a hub for religious learning and community events, offering insight into the region’s deep Islamic heritage. Visitors can admire the architecture, join public lectures, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The center is a symbol of Aceh’s cultural pride and spiritual commitment.
Location: Teuku Daud Beureueh / Syiah Kuala area, Banda Aceh city
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
15. Visit The Tsunami Escape Building
Photo: denysabri / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Visiting the Tsunami Escape Building offers a sobering and educational experience for travelers interested in Banda Aceh tourism. Built as a raised refuge and observation point after the 2004 tsunami, it stands as a symbol of preparedness and resilience. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and coastline while learning about the region’s disaster history and survival strategies. The structure also serves as a training site for community evacuation drills. This landmark provides both dramatic scenery and a moving, informative encounter.
Location: H862+V5W, Alue Deah Teungoh, Meuraxa, Banda Aceh City, Aceh, Indonesia
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
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If you’re looking for things to do in Banda Aceh, you’ll find a blend of rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring iconic landmarks like the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque to enjoying the tranquility of Pulau Weh, Banda Aceh offers a variety of activities that make it a unique and unforgettable destination. So, book your trip now with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Si Gam / Wikimedia Commons
