A Weekend in Bandung: Food, Nature, and a Cozy Vibe
Tucked away in the highlands of West Java, Bandung offers a refreshing escape from city chaos. Whether you're craving a food adventure, a breath of fresh mountain air, or a peaceful café corner to unwind, a weekend in Bandung is the perfect getaway.
Known as the “Paris of Java,” Bandung combines European-style architecture with Javanese warmth. The city is beloved for its cool climate, stunning landscapes, street fashion, and creative culinary scene. Here's your ultimate Bandung travel guide for an unforgettable two-day itinerary.
Day 1: Food & Culture in the Heart of Bandung
1. Start Your Day with a Traditional Sundanese Breakfast
Begin your morning the local way with Kupat Tahu, a savory dish made with rice cakes, tofu, peanut sauce, and sweet soy dressing.
Where to go:
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Kupat Tahu Gempol – A legendary breakfast spot in the city center.
Pair it with Bandrek or Bajigur, traditional hot drinks made with ginger, coconut milk, and palm sugar—perfect for Bandung’s chilly mornings.
2. Stroll Down Braga Street
Once the heart of colonial Bandung, Braga Street is filled with heritage buildings, art deco architecture, and cozy cafés.
Don’t miss:
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Gedung Merdeka – Home to the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference.
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Local art galleries and vintage shops.
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Photo ops with European-style façades and wall murals.
Braga Street sets the tone for Bandung’s laid-back yet artsy vibe.
3. Lunch at a Local Food Court or Warung
Head over to a food court like Paskal Food Market or find a local warung to try:
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Batagor (fried tofu and dumplings with peanut sauce),
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Siomay (steamed fish dumplings),
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And Bandung's legendary mie kocok—a beef noodle soup with kikil (beef tendon).
You’ll find the Bandung food scene full of flavor, spice, and creativity.
4. Tea Time at a Cozy Café
Bandung is famous for its coffee and café culture. Settle into one of the hillside or garden-themed cafés.
Top picks:
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Lereng Anteng Panoramic Coffee Place (great view of the valley),
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Two Hands Full (for coffee purists),
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Kopi Toko Djawa (a vintage-style bookstore café).
These spots are perfect for a breather, photos, and a hot cuppa before more adventures.
5. Sunset at Tebing Keraton
In the late afternoon, drive up to Tebing Keraton, a cliffside viewpoint offering jaw-dropping views of the forested hills of Bandung.
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Best visited before sunset for that golden hour glow.
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Bring a jacket—the higher altitude makes it chilly in the evenings.
This spot is one of the top nature attractions in Bandung and ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
6. Dinner with a View in Dago or Lembang
For dinner, head to Dago Atas or Lembang, where restaurants come with sweeping city views and cool air.
Recommendations:
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The Valley Bistro – Fine dining with a view.
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Lawangwangi Creative Space – Art gallery + café + stunning terrace.
Wrap up the night with a warm meal and a cozy blanket as the city lights start to twinkle below.
Day 2: Nature, Volcanic Wonders & Local Markets
1. Early Morning Escape to Kawah Putih
Kick off your second day with a trip to Kawah Putih, a surreal crater lake located about 2 hours from central Bandung.
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Its milky turquoise waters and sulfur mist make for stunning photos.
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Go early to avoid crowds and fog.
Pro tip: Wear a mask if you’re sensitive to the sulfur smell and pack layers—it gets cold!
2. Explore the Tea Plantations of Ciwidey
On your way back from Kawah Putih, stop by the Rancabali Tea Plantation.
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Enjoy a walk through endless green tea fields with mountain views.
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You can also sip freshly brewed local tea at one of the plantation cafés.
This peaceful landscape is a favorite among couples and families.
3. Lunch in a Floating Restaurant
Head to Dusun Bambu or Kampung Daun, where you can dine in bamboo huts surrounded by nature, ponds, and pine trees.
The food is mostly Sundanese, featuring grilled fish, nasi liwet, sambal, and fresh veggies.
It’s an immersive and relaxing way to enjoy Bandung’s culinary and natural treasures in one go.
4. Shop Local at Factory Outlets & Markets
Bandung is a paradise for fashion and souvenir shopping. Don’t leave without checking out:
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Rumah Mode – A stylish factory outlet.
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Pasar Baru Trade Center – For cheap textiles, Muslim wear, and batik.
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Cihampelas Walk (CiWalk) – For streetwear and denim lovers.
From trendy clothes to local handicrafts, Bandung’s shopping scene has something for everyone.
5. Last Sip Before You Go
Before heading home, unwind with a final drink at a scenic café like:
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Armor Kopi (situated in the pine forest),
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Sejiwa Coffee (modern and minimalistic).
Let the cozy Bandung atmosphere sink in as you sip your final cup of artisan coffee.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Bandung Getaway
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Best Time to Visit: May to September for dry weather and cooler air.
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How to Get Around: Rent a car with a driver or use local ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek.
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Stay Options: Choose Dago or Lembang for nature views; Braga or Riau for city vibes.
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Clothing Tip: Pack layers—it’s warm during the day but can get chilly in the evenings, especially in highland areas.
A weekend in Bandung is the perfect mix of food, fresh air, and slow living. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or just looking to disconnect from the chaos, Bandung welcomes you with open arms—and a hot bowl of mie kocok.
From the bubbling craters of Kawah Putih to the calm corners of a hillside café, every moment here is an invitation to breathe deeper, smile more, and soak in the mountain magic.
So the next time you need a break, don’t think twice. Bandung is calling—and trust us, you’ll want to answer.
Chloe M. Winters
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