About Batam

Batam sits just across the Singapore Strait close enough that the skyline of Singapore flickers in the evening haze, yet far enough that life slows down by several beats. It’s part of Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago, and though modest in size, it packs in dense energy: ferry horns, sizzling satay stalls, karaoke bars glowing till dawn, and a hospitality scene that knows exactly how to blend local warmth with practical comfort. The hotels in Batam range from humble street-side guesthouses to serene 5 star hotels in Batam that rival Bali’s coastal charm.

What surprises first-timers is how developed it feels for such a small island. The roads are clean, taxis metered (most of the time), and the ferry terminals run with a level of order rarely seen in busy port cities. Yet, walk two streets behind the Nagoya Hill Mall, and the scent of grilled seafood and sound of mopeds return you to Indonesia’s pulse.

The island has become a convenient weekend escape for Singaporeans and Malaysians, which explains why Batam hotels often surge in rate from Friday afternoon to Sunday evening. Weekdays, however, tell a different story with quieter lobbies, discounted buffets, and pool loungers all to yourself.

Explore the best Indonesia tour packages to explore Batam Island on Akbar Travels featuring curated stays, ferry transfers, and island experiences tailored for every traveller.

Batam airport Address

Hang Nadim International Airport (BTH)

Address: Jalan Hang Nadim No.100, Batam City, Riau Islands, Indonesia.

It’s about 13 kilometres east of Nagoya, the main commercial district. Taxis from the airport to the city centre cost roughly IDR 120,000–150,000 depending on the time of day and traffic.

The Best Time to Visit Batam

The dry season is between May to September and it is the sweet spot. You get bright mornings and manageable humidity, perfect for hopping between the beaches and golf courses. From November to March, rain arrives in short but loud bursts, sometimes delaying ferries and making coastal drives slippery.

A small local trick: hotel rates drop about 15–20% in the first week after school holidays end in Singapore and Malaysia. That’s when the crowds thin, and the best hotels in Batam release unsold rooms at quiet-season prices.

How to reach Batam

By air:

Hang Nadim International Airport connects Batam to Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali, plus limited regional routes. Direct flights are frequent, but book early during long weekends as local families tend to travel en masse.

By rail:

There’s no railway line in Batam, though occasionally you’ll see “hotels in Batam near railway station” listed online; a mislabel carried over by booking engines. Ignore it; no train whistles here.

By road:

The island’s road network is decent, and taxis are the primary mode. Blue Bird and Gojek both operate, though drivers often prefer cash. A short ride across town rarely exceeds IDR 70,000.

If you’re travelling from Singapore, ferries from HarbourFront and Tanah Merah terminals reach Batam Centre, Sekupang, or Harbour Bay in 45–70 minutes. Booking through akbartravels.com can streamline the visa, ferry, and cheap holiday package in Batam deals under one checkout.

Things to do in Batam

1. Barelang Bridge: A chain of six bridges linking small islands and scenic views at sunset.
2. Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple: A peaceful Buddhist temple with enormous laughing Buddha statues.
3. Ocarina Park: Local amusement park with rides and a sea breeze backdrop.
4. Nongsa Beach: Calm waters, soft sands, and a handful of hotels in Batam near beach.
5. Batam Cable Ski Park: Adrenaline hits with wakeboarding sessions for beginners and pros.
6. Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall: Central retail maze; good food court upstairs.
7. Batam Miniature House: Small-scale models of Indonesia’s traditional homes and oddly charming.
8. Batam Centre Ferry Terminal Promenade: Evening street food stretch with music.
9. Tua Pek Kong Temple: One of the oldest Chinese temples, with intricate carvings.
10. Mega Wisata Ocarina Batam: A family-friendly park by the coast; carnival vibe on weekends.

Shopping in Batam

Shopping in Batam is a curious mix of outlet-style malls and old-school arcades. Expect perfume, electronics, and local batik in the same row.

• Nagoya Hill Mall – Best all-rounder for local snacks and beauty brands.
• Mega Mall Batam Centre – Directly connected to the ferry terminal; convenient for last-minute shopping.
• BCS Mall (Batam City Square) – Youthful crowd, lots of Korean cosmetics.
• Grand Batam Mall – Sleek and modern, hosts big chains like H&M and Uniqlo.
• Diamond City Mall – Compact but has solid deals on shoes and watches.
• Lucky Plaza – Bargain electronics; inspect carefully before buying.
• Panbil Mall – Local fashion boutiques, surprisingly good coffee upstairs.
• Top 100 Penuin Market – Local grocery and spice market, slightly chaotic but fun.
• Citra Super Mall – Small, less touristy; good for stationery and toys.
• Harbour Bay Mall – Walkable from the ferry; cafes facing the sea.

Prices swing daily based on ferry traffic, locals even call it “tourist tide pricing.”

Famous Restaurants in Batam

Food defines the island’s rhythm; smoky seafood grills, sambal so fiery it bites back, and endless rice variations.

• Golden Prawn 933: Legendary seafood joint by the sea.
• Rezeki Seafood Restaurant: Classic kampung-style eatery near Nongsa.
• Harbour Bay Seafood Restaurant: Mid-range, breezy tables facing the marina.
• Wey Wey Seafood: Open-air tables, perfect for sunset.
• Nomad Bar & Resto: Cocktails and fusion bites.
• Teras Café Batam: Laid-back vibe, Indonesian comfort food.
• Goodies Café: Western fare popular with expats.
• Diana Layer Cakes: Famous for local kue lapis.
• Coffee Story Batam: Independent café with solid espresso.
• Kazu Japanese Restaurant: Good sushi inside Nagoya Hill complex.
• Love Seafood Piayu: Fresh catch, simple setting.
• De Bottle Bar: For late-night music and drinks.

Popular Hotels in Batam

Choosing hotels in Batam is like navigating a small city of its own. The range is wide, the pricing volatile, and the service culture quietly efficient.

• Nagoya Hill Hotel: Next to the mall; reliable and central.
• Harris Hotel Batam Center: A favourite for business travellers.
• Aston Batam Hotel & Residence: Smart suites, good breakfast spread.
• Planet Holiday Hotel: Slightly old-school but comfortable.
• Best Western Premier Panbil: Chic interiors and a rooftop view.
• Turi Beach Resort: The island’s postcard-perfect beachfront spot.
• Radisson Golf & Convention Center: Large rooms, great for families.
• Harmoni One Convention Hotel: Popular for corporate stays.
• I Hotel Baloi: Good mid-range option near BCS Mall.
• Da Vienna Boutique Hotel: Central and friendly staff.
• Zest Hotel Harbour Bay: Modern and budget-friendly.
• Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay: Business-class comfort, sea views.
• Crown Vista Hotel: Hilltop setting with panoramic skyline views.
• Harmoni Suites Hotel: Apartment-style convenience.
• Redlink Hotel Batam: Cheap hotel in Batam that surprises with its cleanliness.

For quick bookings and Batam hotel price comparison, akbartravels.com is genuinely efficient; filters by distance, airport proximity, and real user photos.

Popular Resorts in Batam

When the conversation shifts to leisure rather than logistics, these Batam hotels morph into weekend sanctuaries.

• Turi Beach Resort: Classic wooden chalets over water.
• Montigo Resorts Nongsa: Villas with private pools; ideal for couples.
• Nongsa Point Marina & Resort: Yachts, sunsets, and soft music from the bar.
• Batam View Beach Resort: Older but spacious, with lush grounds.
• Tempurung Seaside Hill Resort: Quiet and affordable.
• Holiday Inn Resort Batam: Indoor pool and family rooms.
• Harris Resort Barelang: Family-friendly and near the bridge.
• KTM Resort: Famous for its sea-view bungalows.
• Taman Sari Resort: Low-key, traditional design.
• Pulau Abang Resort: Good for divers and snorkellers.
• Nongsa Village Resort: Self-catering chalets; peaceful atmosphere.
• Pacific Palace Hotel: Ship-shaped building – part quirky, part grand.

Where to Stay in Batam

Location defines experience here. The best places to stay in Batam depend on why you’ve come.

• Nagoya District: The beating commercial heart, walkable malls, massage parlours, nightlife. Ideal for first-timers.
• Nongsa: Coastal calm and golf resorts; 30 minutes from the ferry. Great for honeymoons.
• Batam Center: Balanced choice; near the ferry and shopping.
• Harbour Bay: Good mid-range hotels in Batam near beach, with ferry access to Singapore.
• Baloi: Residential yet lively – cheap hotels in Batam and great local food.

Those looking for hotel apartments in Batam should focus around Baloi or Batam Center. The prices stay stable even in high season, and housekeeping tends to be friendlier.

Places to Stay in Batam near Popular Attractions

• Near Nagoya Hill Mall: I Hotel, Da Vienna Boutique Hotel, Nagoya Hill Hotel.
• Near Barelang Bridge: Harris Resort Barelang, KTM Resort.
• Near Nongsa Beach: Turi Beach Resort, Montigo Resorts Nongsa.
• Near Batam Center Ferry Terminal: Harris Hotel Batam Center, Harmoni One.
• Near Mega Mall Batam Centre: Aston Batam, Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay.
• Near Ocarina Park: Pacific Palace Hotel, Batam View Beach Resort.

Those catching early flights should check hotels in Batam near airport like OS Hotel Airport Batam or D’Merlion Hotel; taxi transfers at dawn are smooth and cheap (about IDR 100,000).

Budget Hotels in Batam

Budget travel here isn’t roughing it, just fewer frills, more street sounds.

• Zest Hotel Harbour Bay: Clean, crisp, great Wi-Fi.
• Redlink Hotel: Cheapest hotel in Batam that feels safe and central.
• Amaris Hotel Nagoya Hill: Small rooms, solid breakfast.
• The Evitel Hotel: Cosy and modern décor.
• The L Hotel Entertainment: Close to nightlife.
• Biz Hotel Batam: Functional, reliable service.

When using akbartravels.com, look under “Budget stays” for flash deals; local agents often push unsold weekday rooms there first.

Batam Hotels by Star Rating

• 5 star hotels in Batam: Radisson Golf, Best Western Premier Panbil, Montigo Resorts Nongsa, Turi Beach Resort, and Batam View Beach Resort.
• 4 star: Aston Batam, Harmoni One, Planet Holiday, Swiss-Belhotel, Crown Vista.
• 3 star: I Hotel Baloi, Da Vienna, Zest Hotel.
• 2 star hotel Batam: Redlink, OS Hotel Airport.

Small note – star ratings don’t always match international standards; a “4 star” here can feel more like 3.5 if breakfast runs out early (happens).

Best Hotels in Batam based on Location

• Best for City Access: Harris Hotel Batam Center – walk to Mega Mall.
• Best for Beach Lovers: Turi Beach Resort – waves within reach.
• Best for Golfers: Radisson Golf & Convention Center.
• Best for Families: Holiday Inn Resort Batam.
• Best for Business: Best Western Premier Panbil.
• Best for Value: I Hotel Baloi – mid-range price, upscale comfort.
• Best Boutique Feel: Da Vienna Boutique Hotel.
• Best Luxury Hotels in Batam: Montigo Resorts Nongsa and Radisson Golf.

When rates surge, use akbartravels.com to monitor tariff swings; the tracker refreshes hourly and often flags price dips before other sites.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Batam

Families tend to prefer resorts with space and pools big enough for cannonballs.

• Holiday Inn Resort Batam: Spacious and full of kid activities.
• Radisson Golf: Quiet yet connected.
• Harris Resort Barelang: Affordable seaside fun.
• Montigo Resorts Nongsa: Private villas ideal for families sharing.
• Aston Batam: Reliable with breakfast variety.

One practical rule: book two months early if you’re eyeing connecting rooms, these go first during Singapore school breaks.

Batam Hotels Tariff

Batam hotel price changes more frequently than the tides. Mid-range rooms hover between IDR 700,000 and 1,200,000, while luxury hotels in Batam can spike to IDR 3 million during holidays. Cheap hotels in Batam start around IDR 350,000.

Some agents inflate prices mid-week, better to do a Batam hotel price comparison across at least two platforms. Weekends, however, are the reverse; demand from Singaporean day-trippers drives tariffs up by 25–30%.

For consistent deals, akbartravels.com occasionally bundles holiday package in Batam with ferry tickets and breakfast vouchers. That saves the headache of juggling multiple bookings.

Batam Travel Tips

1. Book Early for Flights and Hotels: Batam flight tickets can vary in price. To secure the best fares, it’s advisable to book cheap flights to Batam well in advance. Rates jump especially before long weekends when Singaporeans rush over for mini-breaks.
2. Pick Weekdays for Lower Hotel Tariffs: Hotels in Batam tend to be 20–30% cheaper from Monday to Thursday, particularly in Nagoya and Batam Center.
3. Carry Some Indonesian Rupiah in Cash: Card machines occasionally go down, and smaller cafés or taxi drivers prefer cash for quick payments.
4. Avoid Ferry Peak Hours: The HarbourFront–Batam route gets packed on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Aim for mid-morning crossings to breeze through immigration.
5. Choose Accommodation by Purpose: Stay in Nagoya for nightlife, Nongsa for beaches, or Harbour Bay if you want a quick ferry-to-room transfer.
6. Keep Photocopies of Passport and Visa: Some smaller Batam hotels require paper copies at check-in, especially during high season.
7. Try Local Transport Apps: Gojek and Grab work well but expect small delays near ferry terminals around 5–7 pm.
8. Go Easy on the Street Seafood: It’s delicious but spicy enough to cause regret if you’re not used to chilli. Always ask for “sedikit pedas” (a little spicy).
9. Book Spa Slots Early: Spa centres like Majesty or Eska fill up by 7 pm, book afternoon sessions or risk long waits.
10. Mind Hotel Deposits: Most mid-range Batam hotels request IDR 200,000–300,000 refundable deposits; keep that handy in cash.
11. Bring a Universal Plug Adapter: Power sockets are European two-pin, and reception rarely has spares.
12. Avoid Overpacking: Laundry services are cheap about IDR 15,000 per kilo, and same-day return is normal.
13. Watch Out for Seasonal Rains: From November to March, quick downpours can flood some streets near Nagoya Hill Mall. Carry a compact umbrella.
14. Ask Reception for Taxi Fares in Advance: It avoids confusion, airport runs are roughly IDR 120,000–150,000 depending on time of day.
15. Respect Local Customs: Modest dressing is appreciated outside resort zones, and a polite “Terima kasih” earns genuine smiles.

You can conveniently apply for your Indonesia visa online through Akbar Travels for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.