Hotels in Riau

What to Know About Riau Pekanbaru

Tangerang City is an urban area located in Banten Province. According to local accounts, the name “Tangerang” was originally “Tanggeran,” derived from the Sundanese words tengger and perang. The word tengger means “marker,” referring to a boundary monument built in the mid-17th century to mark the territorial divide between the Banten Sultanate and the VOC. Meanwhile, ‘perang’ (war) reflects the area’s history as a battleground between the Banten Sultanate and VOC forces. Evidence of this past can still be traced through the remains of Banten’s defensive fort on the west side of the Cisadane River and the VOC fort on the east. These fortifications later inspired the nickname “Kota Benteng” (the Fortress City), which remained widely used throughout the colonial era.

Today, Tangerang City has evolved into a modern buffer city for Jakarta, blending Betawi and Chinese cultural heritage with contemporary urban life. The city center attracts both business and leisure travelers with its shopping hubs, culinary spots, and well-connected transportation access.

Best Time to Go to Riau

The ideal time to visit Riau is from June to September, when the weather is relatively dry and ideal for exploring the city or nature sites. These months offer clearer skies, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and cultural tours.

Top Tourist Spots in Riau Pekanbaru

An-Nur Great Mosque (Pekanbaru)

This iconic mosque is known for its grand architecture combining Malay, Arabic, and Indian styles. With its spacious courtyard and reflective pools, the mosque is one of the most photogenic landmarks in Riau. Visitors come to admire its religious significance and serene atmosphere.

Riau Cultural Park (Taman Budaya Riau)

Located in Pekanbaru, this cultural center showcases traditional Malay arts through performances, exhibitions, and festivals. It serves as a creative hub that highlights Riau’s local heritage. Travelers can explore various cultural activities and learn more about regional traditions.

Siak Sri Indrapura Palace

Situated in Siak Regency, this historic palace reflects the grandeur of the Siak Sultanate, one of the most influential Malay kingdoms. The building features European and Malay architectural influences, with royal rooms, artifacts, and cultural displays. It is a meaningful stop for visitors interested in history and heritage tourism.

Recommendations of Hotels & Accommodations in Riau 

Cheap Hotels in Riau

Here are some affordable hotel recommendations in Riau:

• Wisma Tirta Kencana near Pekanbaru Airport - Just about 2.5-3.5 km from Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport., this accommodation offers AC rooms with TV, free WiFi, a restaurant onsite.

• Sabrina City Hotel - Delivers budget accommodation with AC rooms, free WiFi, 24-hour reception and onsite parking. While the hotel is modest in amenities, its strategic access near the city centre and shopping.

• RedDoorz Syariah near Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport - Providing air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, private bathrooms, a 24-hour front desk and free parking.

• Collection O Pusat Kota Pekanbaru Near Mall SKA (formerly Hotel Olgaria) - This hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, free parking, a 24-hour front desk and an outdoor swimming pool.

• EXPRESS O 91674 Penginapan BM Prima - This budget-friendly stay offers guest rooms equipped with air conditioning, free WiFi, free on-site parking and a 24-hour reception.

Luxury Hotels in Riau

• Aryaduta Pekanbaru - 4-star hotel located in the heart of Pekanbaru at Jl. Diponegoro No. 34. It offers classic rooms with air-conditioning, free WiFi in rooms and public areas, a large outdoor landscaped pool, fitness centre, tennis courts and multiple dining options.

• FOX Hotel Pekanbaru - 4-star hotel located on Jl. Riau No. 147 in the Senapelan area, Pekanbaru. It offers modern rooms with air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, free WiFi throughout, and a rooftop or indoor pool with city views. The hotel has a fitness centre, restaurant and bar, free parking, and is praised for its cleanliness and vibrant interior design.

• Grand Elite Hotel Pekanbaru - Offers comfortable accommodation in Pekanbaru city centre, providing air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, on-site parking and proximity to city amenities. Suitable for travellers wanting value plus location ease.

• Grand Jatra Hotel Pekanbaru - Offers upscale accommodation suitable for both business and family stays. While detailed publicly available info is limited, it is known to be located in Pekanbaru city centre and typically provides AC rooms, free WiFi and full-service amenities befitting a top-tier hotel choice in the region.

• Grand Central Hotel Pekanbaru - A modern 4-star hotel located in the city centre of Pekanbaru, Riau. The hotel features spacious air-conditioned rooms with modern décor, free WiFi, meeting and event facilities, and a rooftop swimming pool.

Transportation Guide in Riau

• Airport: Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport serves domestic and international flights.

• Bus Services: Intercity buses connect Pekanbaru with other parts of Riau and Sumatra.

• Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab and Gojek operate widely in Pekanbaru.