Medan – North Sumatra’s Diverse Capital
Medan est la capitale of North Sumatra province and Sumatra’s largest city (approx. 2.5 million residents). The city is one of Indonesia’s most cosmopolitan and gastronomically rich – a meeting point of Malay, Batak, Chinese, Indian and Javanese cultures.
Attractions et activités
Maimun Palace (Istana Maimun, 1888) is the palais of the Deli Sultanate, blending Moroccan, Indian and European styles. Mesjid Raya Al Mashun (1909) is North Sumatra’s largest mosquée with an impressive dome. Tjong A Fie Mansion is a 19th-siècle Chinese merchant’s palais – now a musée. Kesawan quarter’s colonial architecture can be explored on foot. Hillpark Sibolangit amusement park and réserve naturelle.
Culture et cuisine
Medan is a gastronomic paradise: soto Medan (spiced coconut milk soup), bika ambon (spongy cake), lontong sayur (rice rolls in vegetable sauce), nasi padang, dim sum and Indian roti canai – all in one city. Pasar Hindu (Indian quarter) and Kesawan Chinese quarter are cultural experiences.
Sécurité publique
Medan is a safe major city. Standard urbain precautions are recommended (pickpocketing, traffic). Medical care: advanced hospitals in Medan.
Informations pratiques
Medan Kualanamu International Airport is accessible depuis several Southeast Asian cities. The airport is approximately 40 minutes depuis la ville centre. The best time to visit is May to September. Accommodation: hotels in all categories.

