Travel Tips in Bandar Seri Begawan
Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital of Brunei, and it is a great destination for travelers who are looking for a unique and exotic destination. The city is full of culture, history, and stunning sites and monuments. To make the most of your trip to Bandar Seri Begawan, here are some helpful tips.
First, familiarize yourself with the culture and etiquette of Brunei. This will help you navigate the city with ease and make your experience more enjoyable. Second, make sure to research the various sites and monuments to visit and plan your days accordingly. This will help you make the most of your time in Bandar Seri Begawan. Third, keep in mind the cost of activities and plan your budget accordingly. Lastly, make sure to follow local laws and customs to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the top sites and monuments in Bandar Seri Begawan.
- Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque – This impressive mosque is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It was constructed in 1958 and features an exquisite blend of Islamic and modern architecture. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to noon and from 2pm to 4pm on weekdays, and from 9am to noon on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/sultan-omar-ali-saifuddien-mosque/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340034)
- The Empire Hotel and Country Club – This luxury hotel and country club is located on a man-made beach and features amenities such as a spa, golf course, and multiple restaurants. It is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. (https://www.theempirehotel.com/)
- Kampong Ayer – This unique village is located on the Brunei River, and it is home to over 30,000 people. It is a great place to get a glimpse of traditional Bruneian culture and architecture. Admission is free and it is open from 8am to 5pm. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/kampong-ayer/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340033)
- Royal Regalia Museum – This museum features a collection of royal artifacts and memorabilia related to the history and culture of Brunei. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/royal-regalia-museum/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340032)
- The Brunei Museum – This museum showcases the history and culture of Brunei. It features a collection of artifacts and exhibits, as well as a library and theater. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/the-brunei-museum/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340031)
- Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex – This complex is home to the Sultan’s palace, as well as a mosque, a museum, and a theater. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/yayasan-sultan-haji-hassanal-bolkiah-complex/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340030)
- Istana Nurul Iman Palace – This is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei and it is the largest residential palace in the world. Admission is not allowed, but visitors can take a look at the outside of the palace. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/istana-nurul-iman-palace/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340029)
- The Brunei River – This river flows through the city and is a great spot for a leisurely stroll. There are several restaurants and cafes along the river where visitors can enjoy a meal or snack. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/the-brunei-river/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340028)
- Kianggeh Market – This bustling market is a great place to pick up souvenirs and sample local street food. It is open from 8am to 5pm every day. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/kianggeh-market/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340027)
- Jerudong Park – This amusement park is a great spot for families with children. It features several attractions, such as rides, games, and shows. Admission is free and it is open from 5pm to 11pm on weekdays, and from 2pm to 11pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/jerudong-park/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340026)
- Ulu Temburong National Park – This park is home to a lush rainforest and is a great spot for nature lovers. There are several hiking trails, as well as boat rides and canopy walks. Admission is free and it is open from 8am to 5pm. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/ulu-temburong-national-park/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340025)
- Tasek Lama Recreational Park – This park is a great spot for outdoor activities, such as jogging, cycling, and picnicking. Admission is free and it is open from 8am to 5pm every day. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/tasek-lama-recreational-park/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340024)
- The Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque – This mosque is the largest in Brunei, and it features a unique blend of Islamic and modern architecture. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to noon and from 2pm to 4pm on weekdays, and from 9am to noon on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/the-jame-asr-hassanil-bolkiah-mosque/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340023)
- Tamu Kianggeh – This open-air market is a great spot to pick up souvenirs and sample local food. It is open from 8am to 5pm every day. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/tamu-kianggeh/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340022)
- Lapau – This cultural site is located in the heart of the city and is home to several historical buildings. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/lapau/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340021)
- Malay Technology Museum – This museum showcases the history and culture of the Malay people. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/malay-technology-museum/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340020)
- The Brunei History Centre – This museum showcases the history and culture of Brunei. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/the-brunei-history-centre/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340019)
- Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium – This stadium is the home of the Brunei national football team. Admission is free and it is open from 8am to 5pm every day. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/sultan-haji-hassanal-bolkiah-stadium/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340018)
- The Brunei Gallery – This gallery houses a collection of artwork from local and international artists. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/the-brunei-gallery/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340017)
- Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex – This complex is home to the Sultan’s palace, as well as a mosque, a museum, and a theater. Admission is free and it is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 1pm on weekends. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/brunei/bandar-seri-begawan/attractions/yayasan-sultan-haji-hassanal-bolkiah-complex/a/poi-sig/1320661/1340030)
Day 1:
• Start the day with a visit to the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
• Take a stroll along the Brunei River.
• Stop by the Kianggeh Market to pick up souvenirs and sample local street food.
• Spend the afternoon at Jerudong Park, which features several attractions, such as rides, games, and shows.
• End the day with dinner at the Empire Hotel and Country Club.
Day 2:
• Begin the day with a visit to the Ulu Temburong National Park.
• Stop by the Tasek Lama Recreational Park for some outdoor activities, such as jogging, cycling, and picnicking.
• Visit the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque.
• Take a look at the outside of the Istana Nurul Iman Palace.
• End the day with dinner at Tamu Kianggeh.
Day 3:
• Start the day with a visit to the Royal Regalia Museum.
• Take a look around Lapau and check out the various historical buildings.
• Visit the Malay Technology Museum.
• Stop by the Brunei History Centre.
• Spend the afternoon at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.
• End the day with a visit to the Brunei Gallery.