Introduction

Makassar is a port city and the capital of South Sulawesi province in Indonesia. It’s the largest city on Sulawesi island and an important economic, trade, and transportation hub in eastern Indonesia. Historically, Makassar was known as Ujung Pandang and was a powerful trading center, especially during the 16th–17th centuries under the Gowa and Tallo kingdoms.

Island Hopping to Samalona and Kodingareng Keke
Just a short boat ride from Makassar’s harbor lies a string of tiny, beautiful islands, perfect for a day of island hopping. Samalona Island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and fantastic snorkeling opportunities among coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Kodingareng Keke Island, a bit further out, is a dreamy sandbar surrounded by turquoise sea — ideal for swimming, picnicking, and snorkeling in peaceful seclusion.

Snorkeling and Diving in Spermonde Archipelago
For underwater enthusiasts, the Spermonde Archipelago is a must. This cluster of islands and reefs offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in Indonesia. You’ll encounter vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and even occasional dolphins. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced diver, there are dive operators in Makassar who can arrange unforgettable trips to explore this marine paradise.

Trekking at Rammang-Rammang Karst Area
About an hour’s drive from Makassar, Rammang-Rammang in Maros is home to one of the largest karst formations in the world. You can explore this stunning limestone landscape by boat or on foot, winding through green rice fields, caves, rivers, and rugged hills. Adventurers will love hiking to viewpoints, visiting hidden caves with ancient handprints, or simply gliding along the Pute River in a small canoe surrounded by towering cliffs.

Sunset Cruise along Losari Beach
While Losari Beach is known for its iconic sunset views, you can take the experience up a notch by joining a sunset cruise. Board a traditional boat and sail along the coast as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. Some tours even offer dinner or live music onboard, making it a romantic or family-friendly adventure.

Culinary Adventure in Makassar’s Street Food Scene
Makassar is a heaven for food lovers, and one of the best ways to explore it is through its bustling street food scene. Try local specialties like Coto Makassar (spicy beef soup), Konro (beef rib soup), Pallubasa (spicy meat stew), and Es Pisang Ijo (banana dessert wrapped in green dough). You can hop from stall to stall around Losari Beach or the bustling Jalan Somba Opu, turning your night into a flavorful adventure.

Fort Rotterdam
This well-preserved 17th-century Dutch fort is Makassar’s most famous historical landmark. Once the seat of the Gowa kingdom and later the Dutch colonial government, Fort Rotterdam houses museums, old cannons, and colonial architecture. Walking through its courtyards gives you a glimpse of Makassar’s rich past and offers some great photo opportunities.

Losari Beach
Known as the “Heart of Makassar,” Losari Beach is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s not a swimming beach, but it’s perfect for a relaxing walk, people-watching, or enjoying street food while gazing at the sunset. The waterfront promenade is lined with food stalls, benches, and sculptures, making it a lively gathering place day and night.

Trans Studio Makassar
If you’re traveling with family or seeking indoor fun, Trans Studio Makassar is one of the largest indoor theme parks in Southeast Asia. It offers thrilling rides, shows, and entertainment zones suitable for all ages. From roller coasters to theatrical performances, it’s a great escape on a rainy day or when you want a break from outdoor sightseeing.

Paotere Harbor
To witness Makassar’s maritime heritage up close, visit Paotere Harbor, where you can see the iconic Phinisi schooners — traditional wooden ships used for centuries by the Bugis and Makassarese people. Watching the dock workers load and unload cargo, repair the ships, or prepare for their next journey offers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged over time.

Akkarena Beach
Located just a few kilometers from the city center, Akkarena Beach is a more modern, family-friendly beach with dark volcanic sand. It’s popular for picnics, jet-skiing, and beach volleyball. There’s also a small pier that’s great for watching the sunset or enjoying a leisurely evening by the sea. It’s less crowded than Losari and offers a more laid-back vibe.

Dos and Don'ts in Makassar

Dos

1.     Dress modestly
While Makassar is a modern city, it’s culturally conservative, especially outside tourist areas. Wearing modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is appreciated, especially when visiting mosques or villages.

2.     Try local food
Don’t miss Makassar’s signature dishes like Coto Makassar, Pallubasa, Konro, and Es Pisang Ijo. Street food is generally safe, but stick to busy stalls for the freshest options.

3.     Respect local customs
Greet people politely, use your right hand when giving or receiving items, and smile often — Makassar locals are known for their friendliness.

Don’ts

1.     Don’t disrespect religious practices
Avoid loud behavior near mosques, especially during prayer times. During Ramadan, be mindful when eating or drinking in public.

2.     Don’t point with your foot or touch heads
Pointing at people or things with your foot is considered rude, and touching someone’s head (even a child’s) can be seen as disrespectful.

3.     Don’t litter, especially on beaches and islands
Help keep Makassar’s natural attractions clean by disposing of trash properly or taking it back with you.

Best time to reach in Makassar

The best time to visit Makassar is during the dry season, from May to October.

Here’s why:

Pleasant weather — Sunny days, lower humidity, and less rain make it ideal for sightseeing, island hopping, snorkeling, and outdoor adventures.
 Calmer seas — Boat trips to islands like Samalona or Kodingareng Keke are smoother and safer.
 Cultural festivals — Some local festivals and events happen during this period, adding to the experience.

• Heavy rainfall, especially from May to July, can cause flooding, road closures, and limited inter-island travel.
• Sea conditions may be rough, which affects snorkeling/diving visibility and ferry schedules.

• Avoid visiting during the rainy season (November to March) if you plan outdoor activities, as flooding can occur in some parts of the city.
• Semarang can be hot and humid year-round, so wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated.

• Weather: Heavy rains, high humidity, and potential flooding in low areas.
• Travel Challenges: Outdoor activities may be disrupted, and some rural roads become muddy or inaccessible.
• However: Hotel rates may be lower, and tourist spots are less crowded.

• Weather: Warm and dry
• Activities: Great for snorkeling, jet skiing, golfing, and exploring cultural spots
• Events: Local festivals and fewer chances of ferry cancellations
• Cons: Occasional ferry delays due to rough seas

• Pros: Fewer tourists, lower hotel prices.
• Cons: Weather is cold, gray, and not ideal for outdoor exploring. Some attractions may have reduced hours.

• It’s the off-season. Things are cheaper and less busy, but it’s quite chilly, wet, and not ideal for scenic walks or long days out.

• Why go: Cheaper flights & hotels, magical Christmas decorations, markets, and ice skating rinks.
• Best for: Holiday lovers and shoppers.
• Downside: Cold, dark days and more indoor sightseeing.
• What to pack: Warm coat, gloves, and waterproof shoes.

• November to April – Ideal for hiking, paragliding, and exploring the volcanoes and nature reserves because it’s dry and cool.
• June to September – Rainy season with frequent afternoon showers, making outdoor activities tricky. However, it’s still a good time for museums and cultural sites.

• Fewer crowds, making attractions more enjoyable
• Christmas markets and festive lights add a magical touch.

• Weather: Mild (8-15°C / 46-59°F), occasional rain.
• Crowds: Least crowded, cheaper hotels & flights.
• Events: Christmas Markets, Three Kings Parade (January 5).

• Chilly but rarely freezing (5–12°C / 41–54°F).
• The Toulouse Christmas Market in December is a festive highlight.
• Museums, churches, and indoor attractions remain open and less crowded.

• Cold (0–10°C or 32–50°F), but magical
• Fete des Lumieres (Festival of Lights) in December
• Cozy bouchons (local restaurants) with warm Lyonnaise cuisine
• Less touristy, but some attractions may have shorter hours

• Mild winter (5°C – 15°C / 41°F – 59°F), rarely snowing.
• Fewer tourists, lower hotel rates.
• The Nice Carnival (February) is one of Europe’s biggest and most colorful festivals.
• A good time for cultural sightseeing, museum visits, and day trips to Monaco

• Magical Christmas markets & festive lights (especially near Champs-Élysées)
• Fewer tourists = Cheaper hotels & flights
• Ice skating rinks at iconic spots like Hôtel de Ville

• Why visit? Cold but charming with festive markets, ice skating, and cozy cafés. It’s the best time for indoor attractions like Mauritshuis and the Peace Palace.
• Temperature: 2°C – 8°C (36°F – 46°F)
• Events: The Royal Christmas Fair in December.

• Cold (0–8°C) but magical Christmas vibes.
• Ice skating at Schaatsbaan Rotterdam and festive lights around the city.
• Great time for museums, cafes, and the iconic Markthal.

• The city sparkles with lights during the Amsterdam Light Festival (December - January).
• Christmas markets and ice skating make it a cozy, festive time.
• Cold temperatures (0-7°C / 32-45°F) with occasional snow, but indoor attractions like museums and cafés make up for it.

• Cold temperatures (0–5°C / 32–41°F), sometimes snow.
• Weimar Christmas Market in December is magical with festive lights and traditional German treats.
• Indoor attractions like the Goethe House, Bauhaus Museum, and Duchess Anna Amalia Library are perfect for winter visits.
• Quieter and more budget-friendly compared to summer.

• For the best weather and fewer crowds: Spring (April – May) or Autumn (September – October)
• For the full festive experience: December (Christmas market season)
• For warm and lively vibes: Summer (June – August), but expect more tourists

• Why Visit: Winter in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is incredibly enchanting, especially if you love a festive atmosphere. The town looks like something out of a Christmas card, with Christmas lights and decorations filling the streets. This is an excellent time to visit if you enjoy the holiday season, and the town’s Christmas Market (usually from late November to December) is one of the highlights.
• Events: The Christmas Market is a magical experience, featuring handcrafted ornaments, festive foods, and traditional German holiday treats. Even outside the Christmas period, the winter season brings a quiet, peaceful atmosphere, and you can enjoy fewer tourists and cozy, intimate settings.
• Drawback: The weather can be cold, and snow is possible, so be prepared for chilly temperatures.

• The Mannheim Christmas Market is one of the best in the region, held in Wasserturm Square.
• Cozy atmosphere with festive lights, mulled wine (Glühwein), and traditional German treats.
• Indoor attractions like Technoseum, Kunsthalle, and Mannheim Palace are great for cold days.

• Cold temperatures (0–8°C / 32–46°F) with possible snow.

• Holiday Magic: Winter in Munich can be magical, especially during Christmas time. The city hosts several traditional Christmas markets, such as the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz, where you can shop for gifts, enjoy mulled wine, and see beautiful holiday lights.
• Winter Sports Nearby: Munich is just a short distance from the Bavarian Alps, making it ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a popular resort town nearby.
• Cold Weather: Winter temperatures can dip below 0°C (32°F), and snow is common, so pack accordingly for the cold weather.

• The Bremen Christmas Market (late November - December) is magical, with festive lights, mulled wine, and handmade gifts.
• Cold temperatures but great for winter charm.
• Ideal for indoor attractions like Universum Bremen and Bottcherstrabe’s museums.

• Cooler temperatures (0–10°C / 32–50°F), but rarely heavy snow.
• Christmas markets and festive lights create a magical atmosphere.
• A great time for relaxing getaways, but not ideal for outdoor adventures.