Things to do in Banda Aceh

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Tent and swings on seashore, Banda Aceh, Sumatra, Indonesia
Tent and swings on seashore, Banda Aceh, Sumatra, Indonesia
Air Terjun Seuhom @ Banda Aceh, Indonesia
Space of Hope (Bridge of Hope) Hallway toward the chimney to bring visitors to the Bridge of Hope (the space of hope). Called a bridge of hope because through this bridge visitors can see the 54 flags of the 54 countries who helped Aceh after the tsunami, the same number of flags premises number of stones arranged in the edge of the pond. In each flag and a stone inscribed with the word 'Peace' with the language of each country as a reflection of war and peace in Aceh before the tsunami conflict. With the earthquake and tsunami, the world saw firsthand the situation in Aceh, the Aceh peace support and help, as well as contributing to the building (reconstructed) of Aceh after the disaster occurred.
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque The original Masjid Raya ("Grand Mosque") was built in 1612 during the reign of Iskandar Muda, Sultan of Aceh. Some say the original mosque was built even earlier in 1292 by Sultan Alaidin Mahmudsyah. The original royal mosque features a multi-tiered thatched roof, a typicalAcehnese architecture. During the First Aceh Expedition, the mosque became a center of armed resistance to the Dutch and therefore it was destroyed razed to the ground on 6 Januari 1874 by the East Indies Governor General van Swieten. In March 1877, the Dutch offered to rebuild the mosque to the local rulers. Construction only began in 1879. The first stone was laid by Tengku Qadhi Malikul Adil who became the first Imam. Construction was completed on 27 December 1881 during the rulership of Muhammad Daud Syah, the last sultan of Aceh. Initially, many Acehnese refused to pray at Baiturrahman, because it was built by the Dutch with ambitions to conquer Aceh, however today it is the pride of Banda Aceh. At first, the Baiturrahman Mosque featured one dome and one minaret. More domes and minarets were added in 1935, 1958 and 1982. Today the mosque has seven domes and eight minarets, including one that is claimed to be the highest minaret in Banda Aceh. Baiturrahman Grand Mosque survived the 2004 earthquake and tsunami but suffered minor damages such as wall cracks. The earthquake had slightly tilted and cracked the 35 meter minaret by the main gate. During the disaster, The mosque served as a temporary shelter for displaced persons and only reopened for prayers after two weeks.

Banda Aceh Attractions

If you're searching for things to see and do in Banda Aceh, prepare to be busy. This vibrant city knows how to entertain. Whatever you're into, you'll be wowed by the wide variety of tourist attractions to sink your teeth into here. Read on to learn about some of the best of them.

Learn what makes Banda Aceh tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Browse through our top {1 fun activities in Banda Aceh fun activities in Banda Aceh}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Recommended things to do in Banda Aceh

Number of things to do
1
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Aceh Private Airport Transfer with English Speaking Driver: $59
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Banda Aceh

Free Things to Do in Banda Aceh

There's no need to constantly reach for your wallet in Banda Aceh. The following won't even cost a cent.

Pasar Ikan - Pay a visit and discover the importance of this place to the community.

Masjid Raya Baiturrahman - Take a few moments for some meditation or prayer at this tranquil religious site.

Things to Do in Banda Aceh with Kids

There are plenty of fun things to do with your kids in and near Banda Aceh. Keep the crew happy with our family friendly experiences.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Banda Aceh? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Banda Aceh

Baiturrahman Grand Mosque The original Masjid Raya

Masjid Raya Baiturrahman

You can find out about the history of Banda Aceh when you stop by Masjid Raya Baiturrahman. Amble around the area's parks or experience its museums.

Masjid Raya Baiturrahman

Aceh Tsunami Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Aceh Tsunami Museum during your travels in Banda Aceh. Amble around the area's parks or experience its museums.

Aceh Tsunami Museum

Pasar Aceh Central

You can learn about the history of Banda Aceh with a trip to Pasar Aceh Central. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Pasar Aceh Central

Taman Sari Park

Explore the great outdoors at Taman Sari Park, a lovely green space in Banda Aceh. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

Taman Sari Park

Harapan Bangsa Stadium

Catch an event at Harapan Bangsa Stadium during your trip to Banda Aceh. While you're in the area, wander around the forests.

Harapan Bangsa Stadium

Rumah Aceh

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Rumah Aceh in Banda Aceh. Amble around the area's parks or experience its museums.

Rumah Aceh

Museum Negeri Banda Aceh

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Museum Negeri Banda Aceh during your trip to Banda Aceh. Amble around the area's parks or experience its museums.

Museum Negeri Banda Aceh

Taman Putroe Phang

Explore the great outdoors at Taman Putroe Phang, a lovely green space in Banda Aceh. Discover the area's museums and monuments.

Taman Putroe Phang

Pasar Ikan

You can enjoy retail therapy at Pasar Ikan during your stay in Banda Aceh. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Pasar Ikan

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Banda Aceh worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or sample regional foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Banda Aceh.
How do I spend a day in Banda Aceh?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aceh Tsunami Museum and Museum Aceh. Then, explore different parts of Banda Aceh for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Banda Aceh?
Aceh Tsunami Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Banda Aceh and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Banda Aceh?
You can easily enjoy popular sights like Aceh Tsunami Museum, Museum Aceh and Harapan Bangsa Stadium with a three-day getaway in Banda Aceh. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and check out Sabang.
What are some activities to do in Banda Aceh with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Banda Aceh with kids.
What to do in Banda Aceh for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Banda Aceh, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Masjid Raya Baiturrahman or Museum Negeri Banda Aceh.
Are there free things to do in Banda Aceh?
In Banda Aceh, Pasar Ikan is a popular spot for anyone wanting to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a top way to discover the best free things to do in Banda Aceh.