Top reasons to visit Pekanbaru
- Cultural Exploration: Discover Pekanbaru's rich heritage by visiting significant landmarks like the Great Mosque and local mausoleums.
- Vibrant Shopping Scene: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Pekanbaru Mall and local markets, perfect for indulging in local culture.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring a memorable trip for families.
- Nearby Resorts: Relax at famous resorts close to the city for a refreshing getaway amidst nature.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to all budget preferences.
Find great hotels in Pekanbaru
Explore a variety of accommodation options in Pekanbaru, Riau, ranging from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a sophisticated business environment or a relaxing spa-themed retreat, Pekanbaru offers something for every traveller. Notable options include Hotel Dafam Pekanbaru and numerous vacation rentals, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant city.
- Novotel Pekanbaru: Located in the heart of Pekanbaru, Novotel Pekanbaru is a contemporary 4-star hotel that caters primarily to business travellers. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, it offers a range of modern amenities designed to enhance productivity and comfort during your stay. The hotel features well-equipped meeting rooms, high-speed internet access, and a business centre. Guests can unwind at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. Its strategic location provides easy access to key business districts and local attractions.
- Grand Jatra Hotel Pekanbaru: With a higher rating of 4.5 stars, Grand Jatra Hotel Pekanbaru is ideal for families and business travellers alike. This hotel features a children’s area with amenities such as babysitting services, a first aid kit, and a dedicated children's pool, making it a family-friendly choice. The hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for comfort, while facilities like a fitness centre and multiple dining options ensure a pleasant stay. Its prime location means that guests are close to shopping and entertainment venues, catering to both leisure and business needs.
- Swiss Belinn SKA Pekanbaru: This 3.5-star hotel is known for its excellent guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, making it a popular choice for those on business trips. Swiss Belinn SKA Pekanbaru combines affordability with quality service, featuring comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and conference facilities. Its convenient location allows for easy access to local attractions and business hubs. The hotel is well-suited for those seeking a blend of comfort and convenience during their stay in Pekanbaru.
Where to stay near Pekanbaru
Pekanbaru, a vibrant city in Riau, Indonesia, promises a delightful blend of city-themed adventures, family-friendly activities, and business opportunities. Explore the bustling Pekanbaru Mall for shopping, and venture into South Pekanbaru for a taste of local culture. With its inviting atmosphere, Pekanbaru is ideal for budget-conscious travellers seeking diverse experiences. Whether you're on a trip to Pekanbaru for leisure or work, the city and its surrounding areas offer something for everyone.
- Perawang: Located 24km from Pekanbaru, Perawang is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel season from December to February. Known for its city-themed and family-friendly experiences, Perawang offers a blend of shopping centres and malls, making it an ideal destination for those seeking retail therapy. The city's urban charm, along with its business-themed appeal, makes it a convenient stop for both leisure and corporate travellers. Explore local eateries and cultural spots to experience the essence of Indonesian urban life.
- Sultan Syarif Hasyim Grand Forest Park: Situated 23km from Pekanbaru, this serene natural oasis is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. The park attracts visitors throughout the year, peaking in February, October, and December. With its lush greenery and diverse flora, the Sultan Syarif Hasyim Grand Forest Park provides a wonderful setting for nature walks and picnics. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking to unwind, this park offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Things to do in Pekanbaru
Shopping
In the heart of Pekanbaru, you can explore the vibrant Pasar Gede market for local handicrafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Mall SKA for a blend of international brands and local boutiques, or head to Ciputra Mall for a wider shopping experience.
Recreation
In Pekanbaru, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Aesthetic Medical Clinic, where skilled therapists offer personalised wellness therapies. For a tranquil escape, visit the Grand Jatra Hotel’s spa, featuring soothing massages and wellness packages amid a calming atmosphere that encourages relaxation and renewal.
Adventure
Explore the scenic landscapes of Riau by trekking through the lush forests of Bukit Bungkuk, where you can encounter diverse wildlife and stunning viewpoints. Additionally, adventure seekers can enjoy river rafting along the Siak River, navigating through thrilling rapids while soaking in the natural beauty surrounding you.
Nightlife
Pekanbaru's nightlife features vibrant venues like the Sky Lounge, where you can enjoy panoramic views and refreshing drinks. The city's karaoke bars offer lively entertainment, while local cafes provide a relaxed atmosphere for mingling and sampling traditional delicacies. Experience a blend of modern and cultural nightlife in this lively Indonesian city.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pekanbaru
For a budget-friendly trip to Pekanbaru, consider visiting in March, September, or November, when accommodation prices are lower, and avoid the peak seasons of July and December to January. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotels by sorting results by price and filtering for eco-friendly options. Additionally, consider booking flights and activities together for added savings. Embrace free activities and local transport to further minimise costs while enjoying your stay.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Pekanbaru are March, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Pekanbaru is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Pekanbaru is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and various other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservations in Pekanbaru with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Pekanbaru
Pekanbaru offers a delightful blend of city, business, and family-themed attractions, making it an ideal destination for various travellers. Explore significant points of interest such as mosques, lakes, and mausoleums, while enjoying cultural and outdoor experiences. Key highlights include the Pekanbaru Great Mosque and local malls. Don't miss the opportunity to visit famous resorts nearby for a relaxing getaway.
- Great Mosque of An-Nur: This stunning mosque, a prominent landmark in Pekanbaru, showcases exquisite architecture with its grand domes and intricate details. Its serene atmosphere offers a glimpse into the local Islamic culture, making it a peaceful retreat for reflection and admiration.
- Senapelan Tunjuk Ajar Integritas Park: A vibrant urban park in the heart of Pekanbaru, this space is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It features lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational areas, providing a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Makam Putri Kaca Mayang: Located about 35km from Pekanbaru, this mausoleum is rich in cultural significance. Visitors can explore its historical context and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, making it a meaningful site for those interested in local heritage.
Best time to go to Pekanbaru
The best time to visit Pekanbaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Pekanbaru falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Pekanbaru falls in January and December. December has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Pekanbaru
Flying into Pekanbaru is convenient with Sultan Syarif Qasim II International Airport (PKU), situated 5km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the 4.5-star Grand Jatra Hotel Pekanbaru, located 8km from the airport, and the 4-star Zuri Pekanbaru, just 3km away. The Aryaduta Pekanbaru is another excellent option, situated 6km from the airport. Both the Grand Jatra and Zuri Pekanbaru offer complimentary airport transportation, including a 24-hour shuttle service for guests. Additionally, Dumai's Pinang Kampai Airport (DUM) is 122km away, with hotels like Grand Zuri Dumai, offering various shuttle services to ensure smooth transfers.