Compared to many other tourist destinations, Medan offers great value for money. Accommodation, food, and transport are reasonably priced, making it an ideal destination for budget travellers. As the melting pot of cultures including Malay, Batak, Chinese, and Indian influences, Medan has a lot to offer. This diversity is beautifully reflected in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and festivals.

If you’re planning to visit Medan but on a budget, here’s 15 free things to do in Medan that you can consider to make your trip memorable.

This mosque is not just a place of worship, it’s a significant historical landmark. Commissioned by the Sultan of Deli, Sultan Ma’mun Al Rashid Perkasa Alam, the mosque has been a central part of Medan’s history and culture for over a century. Located strategically in the heart of Medan, Medan Grand Mosque is easily accessible from various parts of the city. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring other nearby attractions, such as Maimun Palace and Tjong A Fie Mansion. Visiting the Medan Grand Mosque is free of charge, making it an affordable yet enriching experience. You can explore its beauty and history without spending a dime.

When you’re visiting Berastagi Highland, you don’t have to pay an admission fee. This area consists of various and versatile destinations that offer something for everyone. That’s why, you will only need to pay when you enter or buy one of the tourist attractions in the area such as Hot Springs, Berastagi Dairy Farm, Sibolangit Nature Reserve and more.

The temple’s colourful and ornate architecture provides excellent opportunities for photography. The intricate carvings, statues, and vibrant decorations make for stunning photos that capture the essence of the temple’s beauty and cultural richness. And if you visit during a Hindu festival such as Thaipusam or Diwali, you’ll get to experience witnessing and participating in vibrant celebrations. And it’s all for free.

Also known as Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni, is a unique Catholic church in Medan that you can visit for free and open to visitors of all faiths who are interested in experiencing its beauty, tranquillity, and spiritual significance. Completed in 2005, the design and construction aimed to create a place that symbolises peace, unity, and the blending of cultures.

As the largest Buddhist temple in Indonesia, Maha Vihara Maitreya Cemara Asri is free for visitors and it’s open to people of all faiths. This temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in spirituality, culture, and architecture. Its serene environment and cultural richness provide a memorable and enriching experience for all visitors.

Medan Mall can be an option if you expect one of the many free things to do in Medan. As one of the popular shopping destinations in Medan, you can spend time window shopping if you want to save money. Other than retail and department stores as well as food court and restaurants, this mall also has cinema and arcade or play areas.

This is another popular shopping destination in Medan and of the few you can consider if you’re coming with kids. Though no admission fee is required, you will need to pay if using Zoomoov where your kids can drive different types of animal robots for fun inside the mall. The other activity that might interest adults is Fun & Fit where you can enjoy sports and entertainment in one fun activity. You’ll need to pay to enjoy this activity.

Taman Cadika Pramuka is a large park that serves as a green space for relaxation, exercise, and outdoor activities. It is open to the public and doesn’t require an admission fee. You can picnic, jog, walk and the park has a children's play area. The best time to visit this park is early morning and late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Built in the early 20th century, Tjong A Fie Mansion was the residence of Tjong A Fie, a prominent Chinese businessman and philanthropist who played a significant role in the economic and social development of Medan during the colonial era. That’s why, visiting this gallery is important to gain a deeper understanding of Medan’s history and the significant role played by Tjong A Fie in its development. Even better, the admission fee to visit this garden or gallery is free.

Kampoeng Selfie, also translated as literally the colourful village, embodies both ethnic and religious diversity, enhanced by meticulous restoration efforts undertaken by the local sub-district government and residents. Yet, its exceptional charm lies in the remarkable artistic creativity displayed through vibrant paint colours that adorn every corner of the village. Even better, you can visit this tourist attraction for free.

Visiting Taman Sri Deli offers a blend of history, culture, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile destination for tourists and locals alike in Medan and it’s free. Situated near the iconic Tjong A Fie Mansion and represents a historical area of Medan, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage and colonial history. Taman Sri Deli provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life, with shaded paths, benches, and green spaces perfect for relaxation, picnics, and family outings.

London Building, Sumatera or best known as Gedung London Sumatera holds a historical significance because it’s built during the colonial era. The fact that the building is still standing and functional to this day, you might not want to miss visiting this building. You can take beautiful photos around this area and the building itself for free.

Cemara Asri Bird Park is the only tourist attraction in the city centre offering open views of bird breeding and for free. In addition to birds, Taman Cemara Asri also houses several snakes kept in cages for visitor safety.

Visiting Madras Village or Little India in Medan offers a unique cultural excursion where you can explore, shop, dine, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Indian community in Indonesia. Depending on the time of year, you may have the opportunity to participate in Indian festivals and cultural celebrations, such as Diwali or Holi, which are often lively and colourful affairs.

To jog or walk at Beringin Park in the morning is one of the many free things you can do in Medan. The park is a popular destination among locals for relaxation. Its abundant trees and the soothing sound of flowing fountains enhance the park's charm.

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