Surrounded by smoking volcanoes, bubbling hot springs and lush tea plantations, Bandung is a bustling city in the Parahyangan Mountains. The city is home to a lively student population as well as some of Indonesia's best-preserved Dutch colonial buildings.

Things to do

For Bandung's trendiest cafes, shops and restaurants, head to the Jalan Braga strip. Decorated with vintage furniture and local art, Wiki Coffee is one of the city's hippest places to get a caffeine fix. The stylish Braga City Walk is a favourite with locals, featuring clothing boutiques, a cinema and an upmarket food court.

Opened in 1920, the Bandung Institute of Technology was Indonesia's first university. Notable alumni include Sukarno, the beloved first President of Indonesia. The spacious grounds are a fantastic place for a stroll, stopping to visit the Galeri Soemardja, which showcases work from the university's fine arts school.

Over the decades, Bandung has played an important role in Indonesian politics. Housed inside the Freedom Building, the Museum Konferensi explores the turbulent Asia-Africa conference of 1955. Inside you'll find local memorabilia and original photos of world leaders like Sukarno, Ho Chi Minh, Nasser and Nehru.

For a glimpse at Java's rich local culture, head to Saung Angklung. The Sundanese cultural centre hosts wonderful "angklung" music performances as well as plenty of dance events, ceremonies and processions.

Getting around

Most locals get around on small public minibuses, known as "angkot", while there are also plenty of taxis. Husein Sastranegara Airport is just four kilometres from the city centre, with the drive taking up to one hour during peak hours.