Is Malang worth visiting?
Yes, Malang is definitely worth visiting for numerous reasons. Its a city that everyone should see, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay here.
Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the amazing food and fantastic museums and attractions.
Malang is located in East Java, Indonesia. Visitors appreciate the slightly cooler climate and the surrounding natural beauty. Some visitors use the city as a base for visiting nearby Mount Bromo but also nearby you'll find the impressive Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. In town you'll find cultural museums and religious sites.
Malang, Indonesia
7 Reasons to Visit Malang
1. Food
This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.
2. Museums and Attractions
There are a handful of museums around town that provide information on the city's culture and history. There are also mosques, temples, and the famous Rainbow Village.
Museum Angkut is known for its extensive collection of vehicles. ($6)
3. Nightlife
The universities around town mean that there's a youthful vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll also find a mix of cultural activities as well as modern and trendy venues. There are dance clubs, upscale lounges, and everything in between.
4. Hiking
Many visitors use this city as a base for hiking Mount Bromo. It's popular to hire a jeep tour from town, or you can hire a private driver or motorbike. Near town you'll also find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It's possible to hike to the base of the waterfall, but it's a very challenging route.
Mount Bromo is known for its stunning volcano and sunrise views. ($40)
5. Shopping
You'll find places to pick up many local items. The region is known for its ceramics, wood, and rattan (palms).
6. The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Malang might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Malang here or see if Malang is expensive here.
7. Authenticity
Malang has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Malang worth visiting in the Summer?
The high season for travel in Malang is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.
During this season it's fun to experience the hiking, the famous sights and museums, and the nightlife scene.
Is Malang worth visiting in the Autumn?
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Malang, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
This is a great time of year to browse the museums and take a hike.
Is Malang worth visiting in the Winter?
Winter is the low season for travel in Malang. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.
You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, dine out at amazing restaurants, and dance the night away. Also, you can go hiking.
Is Malang worth visiting in the Spring?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Malang. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
During this season it's fun to experience shopping, the museums and landmarks, and the nightlife. Also, you can check out the hiking.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Malang
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
Related
What is Malang most famous for?
Malang is most famous for its many nearby natural attractions. The city is very popular for its food. And many visitors also come to this city for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, and shopping. It is often described as under-rated, authentic, and cultural.
What is the most famous sight in Malang?
The most popular sight in Malang is the Rainbow Village. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Malang on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the Rainbow Village and other attractions here.
How touristy is Malang? Is it a popular city to visit?
Malang is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Waterfalls Tour: $41
- 2-Day Tour: Mount Bromo & Tumpak Sewu from Malang or Surabaya: $168
- Bromo Adventure: $50
- 1Day - Bromo Non Sunrise Tour via Malang (to avoid crowd): $79
- 2 Days Shared Tour from Malang to Mount Bromo and Ijen: $107
- Day Tour - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Goa Tetes Trekking via Malang: $130
- Mount Bromo & Ijen 2D1N Start from Malang & Surabaya Sharing Tour: $185
- Shared Bromo Tour Start From Malang - 1D: $36
How long should I spend in Malang?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Malang is one to three days. Since Malang has a variety of activities such as dining, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Malang? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Malang?.
More Things to Do in Malang
- Is Mount Bromo Worth Visiting?
- Is Coban Rondo Waterfall Worth Seeing?
- Is Jodipan Village Worth Seeing?
- Is Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Worth Visiting?
- Is Museum Angkut Worth Visiting?
For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Indonesia and The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia.
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