Looking for the ultimate Padang travel guide? If you have ever tasted beef rendang or Nasi Padang, then you’ve already experienced a piece of West Sumatra. But nothing compares to enjoying these iconic dishes in their true homeland.

Located on the western coast of Sumatra Island, Padang, the capital of West Sumatra, is a destination rich in culture, culinary heritage, and stunning ocean views. While often overshadowed by Bali or East Java, West Sumatra deserves to be called one of Indonesia’s true hidden gems.

I had the chance to visit Padang during a conference — and even with limited time, this city exceeded all my expectations.

Upon arriving at Padang City, the capital of West Sumatra Province, as well as the largest town in the province, I instantly fell in love with it! As we landed at the Minangkabau International Airport, the major gateway of the province, the view from my aircraft dismantles the beautiful terminal building. Instead of a modern, sophisticated building like one might find in Jakarta, the building is relatively basic with a traditional West Sumatran-style roof. I’m always into something more conventional, and that makes this town one of my favorites. During my brief visit, I’m eager to share the stories of this Indonesian town.

1. Culinary Paradise: What to Eat in Padang

No Padang travel guide would be complete without talking about food! West Sumatran cuisine is famous across Indonesia — and even internationally. Rich in spices and coconut milk (santan), the flavors are bold, complex, and unforgettable.

Must-Try Foods in Padang

• Beef Rendang – Slow-cooked beef simmered in spices and coconut milk
• Ayam Pop – Fried skinless chicken with subtle seasoning
• Tambunsu – Tofu-stuffed beef intestine
• Soto Padang – Savory beef soup with crispy toppings
• Sate Padang – Satay served with thick, spicy sauce
• Lontong Sayur Padang – Rice cake with vegetable curry

For authentic flavors, consider dining at:

• Lamun Ombak Restaurant – Known for quality dishes and reasonable prices
• Selamat Restaurant (situated at the market) – Famous for juicy rendang

Being a coastal city, Padang also offers excellent seafood. While less famous than rendang, seafood cooked in Minang-style spices is something seafood lovers should not miss.

If you’re a foodie, Padang is easily one of the best culinary destinations in Indonesia.

2. Minangkabau Architecture: The Unique Identity of West Sumatra

If Bali is known for its temples, West Sumatra is known for its Rumah Gadang-inspired architecture.

Across Padang, you’ll notice buildings with dramatic curved roofs — from houses and schools to banks and government offices. This architectural style originates from the Minangkabau culture and gives the city a distinctive identity.

Masjid Raya Sumatra Barat (West Sumatra Grand Mosque)

One architectural highlight is Masjid Raya Sumatra Barat, located in the heart of Padang. Built with strong Minangkabau influence, the mosque blends modern structure with traditional philosophy.

Unlike conventional domed mosques, this mosque features sweeping rooflines resembling traditional houses. It is especially lively during Friday prayers and is one of the must-visit landmarks in Padang.

3. Best Beaches in Padang: Indian Ocean Views

Padang sits along the Indian Ocean, giving West Sumatra a coastline stretching over 2,400 kilometers. The province is known worldwide among surfers thanks to the Mentawai Islands, located about 100 km offshore.

While Padang’s beaches may not rival Mentawai’s world-class waves, they still offer breathtaking scenery.

Air Manis Beach

Only 8 km from Padang city center, Air Manis Beach is one of the best beaches in Padang. The beach features scenic cliffs lined with coffee shops — perfect for watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Sipping warm coffee while watching the golden sun dip below the horizon? Pure magic.

Malin Kundang Stone

Air Manis Beach is also home to the legendary Malin Kundang Stone, inspired by a famous Indonesian folktale about a disobedient son turned to stone. For Indonesians, this story is part of childhood memory. Seeing the stone in person adds a cultural and emotional layer to your Padang visit.

4. Siti Nurbaya Bridge: A Cultural Icon

Before heading back to your hotel, don’t miss Siti Nurbaya Bridge. Named after a famous Indonesian novel character, this 156-meter bridge connects the old town area.

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most beautiful view. The soft lighting over the river and hills creates a peaceful atmosphere that perfectly closes your day in Padang.

Beyond Padang: More Places to Visit in West Sumatra

If you have more time, explore:

• Bukittinggi – Home to Ngarai Sianok and the iconic Jam Gadang
• Kelok Sembilan – A spectacular winding road surrounded by lush hills

Unfortunately, my trip coincided with the Sinabung eruption, which caused road blockages. That means my West Sumatra journey is far from complete — and I definitely plan to return.