15 Best Things To Do In Batam: Top Activities and Attractions

Things to Prepare and Pack Before Your Trip to Batam

Travelling to Batam, Indonesia, is an exciting adventure that offers a mix of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and attractions, and unique activities. Whether you're planning a solo travel or a group trip, preparing and packing properly can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Clothes

When packing clothes for your trip to Batam, it's essential to consider the island's tropical climate, which includes both a dry and a rainy season. During the dry season, from May to October, lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal to stay cool in the warm temperatures. Think cotton shirts, shorts, and sundresses, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection. On the other hand, the rainy season, from November to April, calls for a different approach. Be sure to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket and quick-drying clothes to stay comfortable during sudden downpours. A sturdy pair of waterproof shoes or sandals is also a must to navigate wet conditions. Additionally, don’t forget to include swimwear for beach activities, as well as modest clothing for visiting local temples and cultural sites in Batam.

Sunscreen

Given Batam’s equatorial location, the sun can be particularly harsh, making sunscreen an indispensable item in your travel kit. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF should definitely be on your travel essentials checklist to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Opt for water-resistant varieties if you plan on indulging in water sports or beach activities. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating. This not only prevents sunburns but also wards off long-term skin damage. Packing a sun hat and UV-protective clothing can also offer additional layers of protection, ensuring you enjoy Batam’s beautiful outdoors safely and comfortably.

Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses is not just a fashion statement but a necessity in Batam’s sunny clime. Look for sunglasses offering 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays that can lead to cataracts and other eye issues. Polarised lenses can reduce glare, making them perfect for driving or exploring the island’s scenic spots. With the wide variety of styles available, you can choose a pair that complements your look while ensuring your eyes are well-protected during your adventurous activities in Batam.

Umbrella, Hat & Rain Coat

Having the right gear for Batam’s variable weather is crucial. An umbrella, hat, and raincoat are essential items to keep you comfortable and protected. However, to avoid heavy luggage, what you can do is, purchase these items upon arrival. Batam has numerous markets and stores where you can find affordable and suitable gear tailored to the local climate. This way, you can travel light and still be prepared for any weather conditions.

Mosquito repellent

A reliable mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus is essential for keeping these pests at bay, especially during the early mornings and late evenings when mosquitoes are most active. Mosquito repellent is also a must when travelling to remote areas in Batam, especially if you plan to undertake outdoor activities in the jungle. Consider applying repellent not just on exposed skin but also on clothing for added protection. If you're staying or dining in outdoor or wooded areas, portable mosquito repellent devices or patches can also be useful. Taking these precautions will help ensure that your Batam visit remains enjoyable and free from the annoyance and risk of mosquito bites.

Portable Wi-Fi

Portable Wi-Fi is a valuable asset for staying connected while exploring Batam. Whether you need to navigate tourist attractions in unfamiliar areas, stay in touch with loved ones, or work remotely, having a reliable internet connection can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Portable Wi-Fi devices offer convenience and flexibility, allowing you to access the internet anytime and anywhere without relying on local networks or finding Wi-Fi hotspots. Renting or purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device before your trip ensures you can effortlessly stay connected, share your adventures, and access important information while on the go.

Travel insurance

While it’s not a legal ‘requirement’ to travel to Batam you should always secure your travel insurance for Indonesia before leaving Singapore. Even the cheapest travel insurance will help offer peace of mind against unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage. 

Recent incidents, like the tragic go-kart accident involving a 33-year-old Singaporean woman in Batam, underscore the importance of having coverage for potential safety risks involved in recreational activities. Additionally, general crime rates, including petty theft, further highlight the need for travellers to be vigilant and insured.

You should also consider adventure travel insurance for any extreme sports or activities you plan to undertake, like scuba diving or bungee jumping. With the right travel insurance by your side, you can rest assured that you're protected, allowing you to fully enjoy your Batam adventure worry-free.

Go for your Batam trip without worries when you protect yourself with travel insurance.

Travel credit card

Carrying a travel credit card is a smart way to handle your finances while in Batam, Indonesia. What you can do is choose a card that offers low or no foreign transaction fees to save on costs. Other perks include reward points on overseas spending, complimentary travel insurance credit cards, and even lounge access, enhancing your travel experience. 

Do inform your bank of your travel plans to Batam to avoid any potential blocks on your card. Additionally, carrying a mix of payment options, including some cash for smaller transactions, ensures you’re covered in places that may not accept cards.

Any Additional Travel Documents

When travelling to Batam, Indonesia from Singapore, it's crucial to ensure you have all the necessary travel documents. For Singapore passport holders, a visa is not required for stays of 1 day to 30 days for tourism purposes. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, or if your visit is for business, what you need to do is to apply for the appropriate visa before your trip. Additionally, holders of the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) can enter Indonesia for up to 60 days without a visa.

Upon arrival, you must complete a customs declaration form online within 72 hours of your flight at https://ecd.beacukai.go.id/. It's also advisable to carry a health certificate if you have any medical conditions requiring medication.

For health and safety, travellers should also be aware of recent security incidents, such as the arrest of 43 people following a riot in Batam over an industrial park. This highlights the importance of staying informed about local conditions and having comprehensive travel insurance.

Lastly, travellers are required to show proof or certificate of a complete second or third dose of COVID-19 vaccination at least 14 days before departure, however, there are some exceptions as well.

Fun Outdoor Activities in Batam

1. Get your heart rate up at Batam Adventure Park

Source: @batamadventurepark on Instagram

Alt text: batam adventure park, a tourist attraction in batam

If you’re looking for thrills and excitement during your Batam trip, head over to Batam Adventure Park for non-stop fun!

Despite being located smack dab in the middle of the Batam city, this outdoor activity park is full to the brim with exciting activities. Pull on a poncho and get ready to get a little muddy ATV-ing or off-road go-karting. Once you’re done, head over to the archery range to practice your aim, or get competitive in paintball against your travel companions.

Once you’re all tuckered out, recharge with a hearty meal at their in-house cafe before heading off to the next item in your itinerary.

Also, be mindful that adventure activities come with risks; such as the recent accident of a Singaporean woman while go-karting in Batam. Hence, securing travel insurance is crucial to cover any medical emergencies or accidents. 

Address: Jl. Sudirman, Taman Baloi, Kec. Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29432, Indonesia

Price: Activities starting from IDR 135,000 (approx. S$11), prices varies for each activity

Opening hours: 9am to 5.30pm from Saturday to Thursday, 9:30am to 5:30pm on Friday

How to get there: From the Batam centre ferry terminal, you can book a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab to reach the park. (Google Maps)

2. Climb a thousand steps and take a treehouse selfie at Taman Wisata Habibie 1000 Tangga

Source: indonesia.allabout.city

Alt text: taman wisata habibie 1000 tangga, a tourist attraction in batam

This unique wonder pays homage to the residence of Mr BJ Habibie, the 3rd president of Indonesia. 

Taman Wisata Habibie 1000 Tangga means ‘a thousand steps’, the total number of steps leading to this attraction. One of the best things to do in Batam, these steps lead to many Instagram-worthy spots, including a treehouse, cliffside beach and viewpoint overlooking the skyscrapers of Singapore.

Address: 4WVX+W8V, Tanjung Pinggir, Sekupang, Batam City, Riau Islands, Indonesia

Price: Entrance fee of IDR 10,000 (S$0.86)

Opening hours: 8am to 6am daily

How to get there: You can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab for a convenient ride (Google Maps)

3. Take photos and rides at a waterfront amusement park

Source: Mega Wisata New Ocarina

Alt text: waterfront amusement park, a tourist attraction in batam

Boasting a 30M-tall ferris wheel, swing rides, flying fox and a 3D theatre, Mega Wisata Ocarina Batam is the place to go for families or couples looking for exciting things to do. You can stroll along the waterfront and take some aesthetic photos and soak in the carnival atmosphere. 

Address: Sadai, Bengkong, Batam City, Riau Islands, Indonesia 29444

Price: Entrance fee is IDR 15,000 (approx. S$1.24) per person

Opening hours: 8am to 10pm on Monday to Fridays | 8am to 11pm on Saturdays | 6am to 10pm on Sundays

How to get there: To reach Mega Wisata Ocarina Batam, from Batam Centre Ferry Terminal, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab for a convenient ride to the park. For those using public transport, the closest bus stop is Simpang Franky B, which is just a 3-minute walk from the park (Google Maps)

Protect yourself with travel insurance on your Batam trip.

Adventurous Things To Do in Batam

1. Water Sports at Nongsa Beach

Source: Tripadvisor

Alt Text: nongsa beach, a tourist attraction in batam

Nongsa Beach in Batam offers a wide range of water sports, including jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. This is what makes this beach an excellent spot for both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax by the sea. The beach is known for its clear waters and beautiful surroundings, making it a popular destination for tourists. Among the many things to do in Indonesia, water sports at Nongsa Beach stand out for their excitement and beauty. Given the adventurous nature of these activities, it's important to have travel insurance to cover any potential accidents or injuries, ensuring you can enjoy your time at the beach with peace of mind.

Address: Sambau, Nongsa, Batam City, Riau Islands, Indonesia

Price: Varies by activity

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Get There: One can opt for taking a ferry to Batam if travelling from Singapore, which offers a convenient and scenic route. Additionally, if travelling from Nagoya, it is preferable to hire a private taxi for a direct and comfortable journey to your destination (Google Maps)

2. Wakeboarding at Batam Wakepark

Source: Tripadvisor

Alt Text: batam wakepark, a tourist attraction in batam

Wakeboarding at Batam Wakepark offers an exhilarating experience for water sports enthusiasts. The park features a cable system that pulls riders around a lake, making this activity perfect for both beginners and seasoned wakeboarders.

Address: 526V+M8M, Jl. Tj. Buntung, Tj. Buntung, Kec. Bengkong, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Price: IDR 1,200,000 (approx. S$98.64) per person

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Get There: It's a 45-minute ferry ride from Singapore's HarbourFront to Batam Centre, and you can arrange for them to pick you up upon arrival (Google Maps)

3. Mangrove Kayaking Tour

Source: Tripadvisor

Alt Text: mangrove kayaking, an activity to do in batam

The Mangrove Kayaking Tour is a fun activity which offers a unique way to explore Batam's natural beauty. Paddle through serene mangrove forests, observe wildlife, and enjoy the tranquillity of the waterways. This guided tour is both educational and adventurous, suitable for nature lovers of all ages. The tours usually start at the Piayu Laut area, known for its beautiful mangrove forests and scenic views.

Address: Wisata Alam Mangrove Pandang Tak Jemu, Kampung tua bakau serip pantai, Jl. Hang Lekiu No.KM.4, Sambau, Kecamatan Nongsa, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29465, Indonesia

Price: IDR 250,000 per person

Opening Hours: Daily from 6:30 AM to 6 PM, Friday- 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM, Saturday and Sunday- Open 24 hours

How to Get There: To reach Wisata Alam Mangrove Pandang Tak Jemu after arriving in Batam, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab from the Batam Centre Ferry Terminal to get to the location Google Maps

Things To Do in Batam For Couples

1. Get the ultimate pampering session at Xoleil Spa Village 

Source: Xoleil Spa Village

Alt text: couple spa, an activity to do in batam

Xoleil Spa Village has everything you can ever ask for a relaxing getaway.

One popular massage is the 90-minute Xoleil Signature Massage, a full-body Balinese massage that’ll loosen those knots and leave you feeling like a newborn.

Besides relaxing massages, this wellness destination also has food options that will leave you spoilt for choice.

Eat at the Urban Farm Kitchen, chill at their wine bar and lounge or stuff yourself silly at their pizza courtyard. After your tummies are filled, take a dip in their salt pool or relax at the stone onsen. 

For those looking for more activities to do, the village in Batam also offers a cooking school, where you can attend various classes such as wine tasting and cheesemaking.

Remember to use a credit card like the Standard Chartered Rewards+ Credit Card to earn some cashback returns for your overseas spending! You can earn up to 4 miles for every S$1 spent overseas and up to S$500,000 in travel insurance.

Address: Jl. Raja H. Fisabilillah, Tlk. Tering, Kec. Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Price: From IDR 1,110,340 (S$95)

Opening hours: 10am to 10pm daily

How to get there: The nearest bus stop is Transfer Point Batam Center. You can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab for the remaining journey to Xoleil Spa Village (Google Maps)

2. Stay at a Luxury Resort at Montigo Resorts 

Source: Tripadvisor

Alt text: stay at montigo resorts, a must thing to do in batam

Another best thing to do for couples when in Batam is to stay at luxury resorts such as Montigo Resorts. These resorts offer luxurious modern villas with stunning sea views, private pools, and elegant furnishings. Couples can enjoy a romantic stay with amenities like a rooftop terrace, world-class spa, and exquisite dining options.

Address: Jl. Hang Lekiu, Sambau, Kecamatan Nongsa, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29465, Indonesia

Price: Starting from IDR 3389280 (S$279.16)

How to get there: Take a ferry either from Tanah Merah or Harbourfront ferry terminal (Google Maps)

3. Visit Barelang Bridge

Source: Tripadvisor

Alt text: barelang bridge, a tourist attraction in batam

Barelang Bridge, an iconic tourist attraction in Batam, is perfect for a romantic outing. Couples can enjoy picturesque views and take memorable photos. The bridge connects several islands, providing a scenic drive or walk. It's a must-visit spot for its breathtaking sunset views and tranquil atmosphere.

Address: Q5MG+69M, Jl. Trans Barelang, Sembulang, Galang, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29481, Indonesia

How to Get There: The place is far from city area and you can get there by taxi or book a ride on Grab (Google Maps)

Things To Do in Batam with Kids and Family

1. Go-Kart Racing at Golden Go-Kart

Source: Tripadvisor

Alt text: go karting, a must do activity in batam

Golden Go-Kart in Batam is one of the best things to do with your kids as it offers a thrilling racing experience for the whole family. Kids and adults can enjoy the excitement of go-karting in a safe environment. The track is designed for fun and safety, making it a perfect family activity.

Address: 526R+Q58, Jl. Bengkong Laut, Tj. Buntung, Kec. Bengkong, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Price: IDR 150,000 (S$12.32) per session

Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

How to Get There: Golden Go-Kart is best accessed by taxi, as there's no public transport available. It's 25 minutes from Batam Center and 10-15 minutes from Nagoya, depending on traffic (Google Maps)

2. Shop to your heart’s content or catch a S$3 movie at Grand Batam Mall

Source: Grand Batam Mall

Alt text: grand batam mall, a tourist attraction in batam

There’s no wonder why Singaporeans flock to Batam for weekend getaways — almost everything there is super affordable, with full meals at a restaurant averaging at around S$5 or less to massages that cost around S$10 per hour.

Shop ‘til you drop at the new Grand Batam Mall, a top tourist attraction in Batam, which hosts shops such as Uniqlo and H&M, among many others. 

In the 80,000 square-metre mall, foodies may also find Genki Sushi, Marugame Udon, Mocca Cabana and Ichiban. 

After shopping and eating, catch a movie for only S$3 at CGV Cinema. They have various seating options, including couple-friendly ‘Sweetbox’ and Satin Suites. 

Address: Jalan Pembangunan, Batu Selicin, Kecamatan Lubuk Baja, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Opening hours: 10am to 10pm daily

How to Get There: You can travel from Batam Center Ferry Terminal to RedDoorz Premium near Grand Batam Mall in Nagoya by passing through Batam Centre, Singapore Harbour Front, Harbourfront Centre, and Harbour Bay (Google Maps)

3. Explore Batam Botanical Garden

Source: Tripadvisor

Alt text: batam botanical garden, a tourist attraction in batam

Visiting Batam Botanical Garden should be on the list of top things to do for families as it allows them to explore a variety of plants, making it an educational and fun outing.

Address: 53CJ+5GQ, Jl. Hang Lekiu, Sambau, Kecamatan Nongsa, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29465, Indonesia

Price: Free entry but there is a charge for the Orchid Garden, IDR 82,339 (S$6.76) for regular admission and IDR 16,467 (S$1.35) for seniors

Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Get There: From the Batam centre ferry terminal, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab to reach the garden (Google Maps)

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Batam

1. Have your food sent to you while chilling in a swimming pool at SENSE Coffee & Pool

Source: SENSE Coffee & Pool

Alt text: sense coffee & pool, a tourist attraction in batam

Bali vibes, anyone?

This whimsical cafe in Batam is the closest you can get to Bali without going there. Take tons of photos in their pool and taste trendy dishes for a fraction of cafe prices in Singapore (think, S$3 smoothie bowls). 

If you're someone who loves to spend on food, earn up to 6% cashback for your dining expenses when you sign up for a Citi Cash Back Card. On top of that, it also provides up to S$1 million travel insurance coverage!

Address: Komp, Jl. Centre Park No.3, Taman Baloi, Batam Kota, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29432, Indonesia

Price: IDR 25,000 to IDR 50,000 (S$1.23 to S$4.11)

Opening hours: Daily from 9 AM to 9 PM

How to Get There: The nearest bus stop to Sense Coffee & Pool in Batam is Ikan Daun, just a 5-minute walk away. The bus lines KOR 2 and KOR 5 stop near Sense Coffee & Pool, making it easily accessible by public transport (Google Maps)

2. Cuddle up with giant teddy bears as you munch at Lee’s Cafe & Bar

Source: Lee's Cafe & Bar

Alt text: lee’s cafe & bar, a tourist attraction in batam

A meal for one? Scrap that — you’re never alone at Lee’s Cafe & Bar as you’ll have a giant stuffed bear seated opposite you. And on the floor, and along the walls. 

This cafe in Batam is popular as an attraction among tourists for its tasty Cheese Lava dessert that oozes gooey cheese sauce. 

Address: Blk. J, Jl. Komp. Penuin Centre No.1-2, Batu Selicin, Kec. Lubuk Baja, Kota Batam, Kepulauan Riau 29444, Indonesia

Price: Around IDR 25,000 to IDR 170,000 (S$2.50 to S$17) 

Opening hours: 11am to 10pm daily (Last order 9.30pm)

How to Get There: It is located at a 10-minute walk from Batam City Square Mall (Google Maps)

3. Taste locally-made multi-coloured beers at Freshbeer Batam

Source: sifrsite.com

Alt text: freshbeer batam, a tourist attraction in batam

Taste colourful beers featuring tropical flavours such as passion fruit and seaweed at only IDR 15,000 (S$1.40) a pop at Fresh Beer Batam.

Besides an assortment of beer, they are also known for their array of exotic barbeque meat on the menu, such as bat, crocodile, squirrel and snake to name a few.

Address: Komplek hup seng blok D no 8, Jl. Engku Putri No.kel, Teluk Tering, Batam Kota, Batam City, Riau Islands 29444, Indonesia

Price: IDR 75,000 to IDR 1,00,000 (S$6.16 to S$8.21)

Opening hours: 12pm to 1am Mondays to Saturdays | 12pm - 12am Sundays

How to Get There: The closest station to Fresh Beer Batam Centre is Inko, just a 3-minute walk away at 190 metres. Bus lines KOR 2 and KOR 5 stop nearby, making it conveniently accessible by public transport (Google Maps)

Popular Districts in Batam For Travel

Nagoya

Nagoya is the bustling commercial hub of Batam, known for its vibrant shopping centres like Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall and the Batam City Square. It’s also famous for its nightlife, with numerous bars and restaurants catering to various tastes. Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere with plenty of options for entertainment, dining, and shopping.

Nongsa

Nongsa is a more serene district, known for its luxury resorts such as Montigo Resorts and Turi Beach Resort. It offers beautiful beaches and upscale amenities, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to relax. Key landmarks include Nongsa Point Marina and Nongsa Beach.

Batam Center

Batam Center is the administrative heart of the city, home to the Batam Center Ferry Terminal and Mega Mall Batam Center. It's a great spot for families and business travellers, offering easy access to various things to do, including shopping, dining, and exploring transportation hubs. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of activities, from browsing through shops and enjoying local cuisine at Mega Mall Batam Center to taking leisurely walks along the waterfront. With its convenient location and diverse range of things to do, Batam Center is an ideal starting point for exploring the city.

Sekupang

Sekupang is known for its ferry terminal and close proximity to various international ferry routes. It features attractions like the Sekupang International Ferry Terminal and Ocarina Park. It’s also the starting point for many island-hopping tours, offering a quieter, more laid-back experience.

Batu Aji

Batu Aji is a residential and industrial area known for its local markets and affordable accommodations. It's less touristy, offering a glimpse into everyday life in Batam. Notable tourist attractions include the Aviari Market and nearby industrial complexes.

Batu Ampar

Batu Ampar is a port area, bustling with activity due to its shipyards and logistics businesses. It's an interesting district for those wanting to explore the industrial side of Batam. Visitors can also find seafood restaurants and local eateries along the waterfront.

What You Need to Know When Planning For Your Batam Activities

Weather conditions

Batam enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season from April to October, when you can enjoy outdoor activities without the worry of rain.

Demographics

Batam's diverse culture is a melting pot of ethnic groups, primarily Malay, Chinese, and indigenous communities, each contributing to the island's rich cultural tapestry. The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, but due to its proximity to Singapore and Malaysia, English, Bahasa Melayu, and Mandarin, as well as various Chinese dialects, are widely spoken, especially within the tourism sector. 

Economy

The island's economy is booming, with tourism, manufacturing, and shipbuilding industries leading the charge. This economic growth has led to a proliferation of shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors, from idyllic beachside resorts to luxury hotels with amenities right at your doorstep.

How Much Should I Bring to Batam from Singapore?

Budgeting how much money to bring to your Batam trip depends on your planned activities, dining preferences, and shopping plans. For a 3-day trip, the recommended budget is around IDR 44,55,906 (approx. S$370) per person, including transportation, accommodation, and meals. If you are planning to stay for a week, you should budget around IDR 9634392 to IDR 12042990 (approx.S$800 to S$1000), accounting for the same daily expenses. Also, keep in mind that while Batam offers affordable options for dining and shopping, setting aside a contingency fund is wise for any unexpected expenses. Moreover, while non-cash payments via QR/QRIS are widely accepted in Batam, carrying some cash is advisable for traditional markets and street vendors.

How to Get to Batam From Singapore?

The easiest method of travelling to Batam from Singapore is by ferry. The ride takes about 40 to 70 minutes, depending on the harbour you depart from and arrive at.

There are 6 ferry terminals in Batam you can choose to arrive at, and 2 ferry terminals you can depart from Singapore. You can depart at HarbourFront Centre Regional Ferry Terminal or Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore to Ferry Terminal Batam Centre, Ferry Terminal Sekupang, Ferry Terminal HarbourBay and Ferry Terminal NongsaPura in Pulau Batam.

There are four ferry companies providing services to Batam: Sindo Ferry, Batam Fast Ferry, Majestic Fast Ferry, and Horizon Fast Ferry. You can book your ticket directly on their respective websites, or on sites like Easybook that allow you to compare different departure and arrival times at a glance.

Source: Batamfast

Though you can purchase your ferry tickets up to 1 hour before your departure at the harbour itself, we recommend securing your tickets beforehand to ensure that there are sufficient tickets for you and your travel buddies for your trip. 

How to Get Around Batam to Complete Your Batam Itinerary

Exploring Batam and its tourist attractions is convenient, thanks to a variety of transportation options catering to different preferences and budgets:

Rent a car

Renting a car in Batam offers the ultimate flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. Various rental agencies are available, providing a range of vehicles to suit your needs. When renting a car, ensure you have a valid driver’s licence and are familiar with the local driving laws. Renting a car is ideal for families or groups and to travel at night, so you can do all the things you want to do without relying on public transport. You should also purchase international car rental insurance for a self-drive trip to ensure your financial protection. Do also ensure your travel insurance comes with rental excess coverage!

Get a taxi

Taxis are a convenient and affordable way to get around Batam. They can be hailed directly from the streets or booked through your hotel. Agreeing on a fare before starting your journey is advisable, as not all taxis use metres. For longer distances or full-day hires, negotiating a fixed rate with the driver can offer better value and convenience.

Ride the local public transport

For an authentic Batam experience, the best thing you can do is use the local public transport. Mini-buses, known locally as 'angkot,' run specific routes around the island, offering an inexpensive way to travel. While the angkot system can seem daunting at first, it's a great way to immerse yourself in local life and navigate Batam like a resident.

Take Grab and/or Gojek

Ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Gojek are now widely used in Batam, providing a safe and efficient means of transportation. With the convenience of app-based booking, you can easily arrange for rides from your location to your destination at transparent prices. These services often offer a variety of vehicle options, from standard cars to larger vehicles for groups, making them a versatile choice for getting around.

Must-Buys From Batam

Wondering what to buy at Batam? Trust us, you’ll have no problem finding a souvenir to bring home! Batam is a haven for Singaporean shoppers, known for its affordable goods and unique local products. Batik shirts, with their vibrant patterns and colours, make for beautiful souvenirs and gifts. Kueh lapis, a rich, layered cake, is another must-buy item from Batam, famous for its spices and buttery goodness. Additionally, local handicrafts such as woven baskets and traditional ornaments reflect Batam’s rich cultural heritage. And don't miss out on local snacks and dried seafood, which are perfect for taking a taste of Batam home with you!

Check Out All The Best Tourist Attractions in Batam Today!

Batam is a treasure trove of tourist attractions, offering something for every traveller. Start your adventure with a visit to Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall, the largest shopping centre in Batam, perfect for retail therapy and culinary delights. For a dose of culture, explore the Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple, one of Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temples. Barelang Bridge is another must-see, a series of impressive structures connecting Batam's islands and offering stunning views.

For those seeking relaxation, Nongsa Beach and Melur Beach provide serene settings and clear waters. If you're up for some thrills, Batam Cable Ski Park and Golden Go-Kart offer exciting activities for adrenaline junkies. Nature lovers will enjoy the Mangrove Kayaking Tour at Piayu Laut, where you can paddle through lush mangrove forests. Finally, unwind at the Xoleil Spa Village for a rejuvenating experience.

Explore these diverse tourist attractions to experience the best of Batam today!

Plan ahead for your Batam trip. Protect yourself with travel insurance.