27 Best romantic things to do in Bandung for a fairytale winter getaway in the Paris of Java!

Written by Beverley Lennon
Co-written by Cisca Lim and Junanto Xu

Everyone thinks of Paris as the city of love and why not, the language, the museums, and the Eiffel Tower sure level up the city’s charm. But hey, we have to agree that it takes a lot of savings to go all the way to Europe.

Closer to home and known as the Paris of Java, Bandung may not be your magic white winter getaway, but it has cooler highlands and will give you plenty of reasons to skip South East Asia’s beaches!

There are many spots in Bandung that take romance and magic to another level: cute cafes, restaurants with a view but also picturesque natural attractions where you can catch the sunrise and share plenty of memories!

Here’s our curated list of the most dreamy things to see and do in Bandung.

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Recommended place to stay: Hilton Bandung

If you are both shopping enthusiasts, the centre of Bandung is a prime location to spend your vacation. As you stroll around the city, you will discover a great shopping experience, from bargain stores to designer outlets.

Hilton Bandung, which is just a 10-minute drive from Husein Sastranegara International Airport, is the perfect option for couples, shopaholics and first-timers in Bandung alike who want to stay at the best spot. Strategically located near a train station and offering an exclusive shuttle service to the nearby 23 Paskal Shopping Centre (where you’ll find many dining options), we are not surprised to learn that the hotel is popular for its location!

And when it comes to customer service, the staff know exactly what you want and will go the extra mile to make it happen (yes, even bringing a doctor to your room!).

The spacious rooms are the perfect respite from your shopping sessions as you get to enjoy spectacular city views and cuddle comfortably in each other’s arms. And if you want extra relaxation, go for a massage at the hotel’s Jiwa Spa. The private couple’s room is a guest favourite – luxurious and romantic!

When you’re tired from all the shopping, head to their magnificent pool area, which is equipped with comfortable cabanas where you can chill. (If you ask us, they are also great for post-swim naps!)

Make sure you have enough luggage space for all your purchases and Hilton Bandung will take care of the rest!

Find out more Hilton Bandung

1. Step into your very own romantic Korean drama series – Little Seoul (Chingu Cafe)

Annyeonghaseyo! Welcome to Bandung’s very own ‘Little Seoul’, the place where you can fulfil all of your K-dreams with your K-prince or princess!

In this cute and Instagrammable Koreatown, you can find signages in Korean characters and restaurants where you can taste delicious Korean cuisine. All prices are even in Korean won! No cash is accepted at the restaurants as you have to get it exchanged at the ‘Money Changer’ stall (1 won = Rp. 10, which is close to the actual exchange rate), where you will get a ‘Citypass card’ that you can then use to pay for your orders.

You can choose to dine at Chagiya Korean Suki & BBQ, where you will enjoy the iconic Korean BBQ, or head to Chingu Cafe for Korean hotpot, rice balls (Jumukbap) and colourful traditional shaved ice (Bingsu).

Or simply stroll along the Korean street replica – Dongdaemun Street is where you can get all of your Korean snack cravings satisfied, including the iconic Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)! This is also where you can rent a Hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for your very own photoshoot session.

Searching for a cosy place nearby in the heart of the city to chill at with your love after your date at the Instagrammable Chingu Cafe? Head to Hilton Bandung’s Magma Lounge, where you can sip on fine cocktails, munch on tapas dishes and get some rest before your next stop!

2. Take a magical walk in the flower fields – Rainbow Garden Lembang

Located in the famous Floating Market Lembang, this garden complex offers a vast collection of more than a hundred types of flowers! It’s almost as though you’ve been transported to the tulip fields far away in the Netherlands.

The perfectly manicured Rainbow Garden is also colour-coordinated to resemble a rainbow, which gives this garden its name. Besides taking plenty of photos for the ’gram, there is also a flower nursery where you can purchase various types of organic flowers, cacti and other plants. Why not make a bouquet out of it and get down on one knee to pop the big question?

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3. Dip in a heart-shaped pool – Taman Love Soreang

Parks aren’t called refuges for nothing. A great park can make you forget you’re in the city and this is exactly what you’ll feel when travelling down to South Bandung to explore their version of Love Park.

With panoramic views of mountains and hills from afar, you can either plunge into their infinity pool or take a dip in their romantic heart-shaped pool, which looks even more magical at night with the city lights as the backdrop.

The park is dominated by other scenic spots like heart-shaped selfie platforms and an intriguing abandoned airplane.

Those sure can make up for the absence of the Eiffel Tower in the Paris of Java, right?

4. Find love among 20,000 orchids and pine trees – Cikole Orchid Forest

This new addition to Lembang’s collection of picturesque scenery invites you to enjoy fresh air from the mountains, rows of pine trees and, as its name says it, plenty of orchids!

Here you will find over 20,000 orchids, among which include some of the rarest variants such as West Java’s own Phavio. But surely your special one is the rarest of them all?

If you’re one of those adventurous people, the place also offers exciting activities to enjoy, including gliding on a flying fox and crossing a wooden bridge that hangs 23 metres above the valley!

5. Your very own Japanese romance – Kyotoku, Floating Market Lembang

Don’t we all admit that the scenery in Japan is so delightfully charming? What if you can find Japan in Bandung?

Located at the Floating Market of Lembang, this little Japanese-styled town has got you covered for your trip to the land of the rising sun (something more affordable until the right time comes!).

Dress up in traditional kimonos and explore the cherry blossom gardens, stroll around the lakes, and visit the traditional Japanese houses. It’s a fun and unforgettable experience to surprise your partner with or even to enjoy with a good bunch of friends!

6. Make a trip down to the little Bali of Bandung – Sosis Kraton

We all know that Bali has some cool hipster cafes but Bandung is quickly catching up and has plenty of Instagrammable spots to chill at too!

With a pool and colourful bean bags, visiting Sosis Kraton is pretty much like dropping by a pool club in Bali. In fact, it almost resembles a traditional villa you might find in Canggu!

Sosis Kraton is surrounded by nature on a plateau where you can admire the beauty of Bandung from a hill. The menu offered includes breakfast dishes, appetisers and mains, but don’t forget to leave some space for dessert too!

7. Find Greece up in the hills! – Orofi by The Valley

Destination: Greeeeece!!

Can’t afford Santorini yet? Taking a trip to Bandung is almost equivalent to travelling to Europe!

Orofi (which translates to ‘roof’ in Greek) is located high up on Dago hill and offers the most postcard-perfect views and magazine-approved decor inspired by the land of the Olympian gods!

As you step into this cute rooftop cafe, you’ll feel as though you have been transported to a beautiful Cycladic island.

And we hope you’re hungry, as the cafe boasts delicious flavours and you can feast like real ancient Greek gods and goddesses! The menu offers mostly Western dishes with a wide choice of soups, pizzas, pasta and more.

Overlooking the city of Bandung, this is the place to be if you both want amazing views and food to match!

8. Go on a lovely strawberry picking session – Rumah Stroberi

Did you know that strawberries have a long and romantic history? Next to chocolate, strawberries are one of the most widely known aphrodisiacs. In fact, chocolate-covered strawberries were originally paired together because they are two of the world’s most famous aphrodisiacs!

Not only will this adventure to Rumah Stroberi give you and your love some sweet treats but some sweet memories too as you get to enjoy good times outside with your partner or friends.

The strawberry farm is located in the chilly region of Lembang, and is known to be the only strawberry farm in town with all-year-round strawberries – they house more than 30,000 strawberry plants!

The property also features a cosy and intimate restaurant where you can enjoy organic vegetables from their garden and indulge in the all-time-favourite, the star on the menu, *drumroll* – the legendary Nasi Liwet (a traditional dish with rice cooked in coconut milk, served with chicken broth and other spices)!

9. Your fairytale garden dream come true! – Cocorico Cafe

For the perfect dinner out, you need the right ingredients – timely prompt service, good vibes, tasty food, and panoramic views if possible.

This relaxed eatery offers both indoor and outdoor dining, but it is on the outside that things take a more romantic turn as you indulge in a delicious meal with views of the city lights!

Diners’ favourites include the oxtail soup, which is so comforting when the temperature drops low. They have a varied menu with Indonesian, Western and other Asian dishes for the pickiest of eaters.

And the best part? You can enjoy this five-star location at very affordable prices.

10. Indulge in a soothing body treatment – Martha Tilaar Spa

Specifically designed with romance in mind, you will find a variety of treatment packages for couples at Martha Tilaar Spa.

From body massages, facials, to hair cream baths, hand-and-foot treatments and lunch, sign up for their Sensual Enchanter Spa Package – a good deal that lasts 5 hours!

If you want to talk to each other during the massage, you can. If you want to quietly commune, that’s good, too. The therapists will follow your lead.

What do we love? Martha Tilaar Spa focuses on empowering women and has a strong philosophy to help women pursue their dreams. They offer training and encourage women to be independent and earn their own money!

Considering a more luxurious spa right in the city? Why not head to Jiwa Spa at Hilton Bandung for a romantic pampering session, which comes with a sauna and hot and cold whirlpools too!

11. Go on a memorable afternoon tea session – Sucré Pâtissier and Chocolatier

Dates aren’t restricted to dinner time only! Why not bring your special one on an afternoon tea session?

If the way to her heart is a plate filled with beautiful dessert creations, you’re sure to win her ‘YES!’ with a romantic afternoon tea at Sucré Pâtissier and Chocolatier – the expert in macarons.

You will both be able to delight in a delicious menu of lovingly prepared treats! Besides scrumptious macarons, other too-pretty-to-be-eaten desserts include heart-shaped cakes, durian cheesecake and a special Nougatine that should not be missed!

12. Plunge into a comforting hot spring – Cipanas Nagrak

Find warmth and comfort at this natural hot spring surrounded by mountains. This lesser-known spot is rustic and natural!

Be sure to pack your swimsuit, and you will enjoy an almost-private place to soak in with your sweetheart. The natural pool is fed by several little waterfalls – almost like in a fairytale!

Since the location has not been developed for tourism yet, there are only a few facilities, which also translates to no crowds! That being said, you will find bathrooms, prayer rooms and a spacious parking area.

There you go – a pampering and sensual sauna-like experience for two without breaking the bank!

13. Wander into the forest to be blessed by little fairies’ magic dust – Curug Aseupan

We can all agree that waterfalls are one of Earth’s most captivating natural wonders that also happen to be super romantic when you’re visiting one with your other half!

At Curug Aseupan, you get to relish on one of the most magical waterfalls in Bandung – it’ll be as if you’ve jumped right into The Jungle Book. The falls offer commanding views of the downrush over an impressively lush landscape. So if you’re both waterfall junkies and ready to get dirty (while trekking down of course), Curug Aseupan should be on your ultimate to-do list.

14. Come here with your Instagram partner – Picknick on The Roof

This cafe located on a rooftop is just begging to be photographed! One of the best ways to describe Picknick on The Roof is simply “very hipster”.

You’ll love the super trendy tropical decor with verdant hues and marbled tables, but the most ’grammed feature of this venue is their yellow vintage VW Kombi resting in the background.

The menu is as hip as the decor; your camera will enjoy the photo-worthy cookies, pizza, chicken wings and refreshing cocktails as much as your belly.

With everything you need for an Insta-background, you sure will save some space on your feed for their good-looking treats too!

Looking for a cosy place nearby in the heart of the city to chill after dinner? Head to Hilton Bandung’s Magma Lounge, where you can sip on fine cocktails and enjoy a good night’s heart-to-heart chat!

15. Sit and dine by the clouds – Skyline Best View Resto

There’s nothing quite like a trip to paradise for two. Skyline Best View Resto is surrounded by fields, mountains and villages that are worth admiring, and what better way to do it than from above?

Located on an elegant rooftop, the restaurant features floor-to-ceiling windows so you get to enjoy a close encounter with the sky!

Guests can choose to sit outside on the rooftop or hang around in the equally beautiful main dining area. We recommend you try the Spanish Roasted Chicken along with a generously topped pizza!

16. Book a table in an igloo – Utara Cafe

Too bad it doesn’t snow in Bandung, as this would add to the romantic scene at Utara Cafe. While the main restaurant sits in what appears to be an industrial-style building, you can opt for an open-air table or one set in a no-snow snow globe!

Since this is located in the highlands, it might get a bit chilly here and that makes it ideal for a delightful BBQ platter, or better yet, our hotpot favorite – shabu-shabu! Don’t miss this comforting and fun dining experience!

17. Look out for this secret glasshouse in a garden – The Potting Shed

This glasshouse cafe is distinguished by its unconventional and modern minimalist architecture that challenges the traditional landscape and offers a quiet respite away from all the hustle and bustle. Yet despite its contemporary exterior, the interiors are packed full of vintage decorations among other plant ornaments. It’s almost as though you’re taking a voyage through time.

The restaurant is a firm favourite for special romantic occasions for two. A romantic dinner doesn’t have to mean white tablecloth, polished silver cutlery and waiters in bow ties. Here, the atmosphere oozes elegance and charm, and the food is also mouthwatering and delicious. Share a delectable dessert to add a sweet touch to the end of your date.

18. Be Adam and Eve at Bandung’s Garden of Eden – Cafe D’Pakar

Cafe D’Pakar is a humble cafe serving light bites such as sandwiches and martabak (sweet or savoury stuffed pancakes), and heavier meals such as rice and noodles. As the cool breeze accompanies your meal, you’ll appreciate a warm cup of coffee that completes your relaxing experience.

Located in the Dago highlands, the cafe makes for an ideal intimate moment for those who love to chill with Bandung’s panoramic mountains and cloud-speckled blue sky.

Getting to Cafe D’Pakar requires a bit of an effort as it is outside the city centre, but you just need to visit once to understand why it’s worth the trip!

19. Go behind the scenes of a traditional orchestra – Saung Angklung Udjo

Marketing itself as a ‘one-stop cultural workshop’, Saung Angklung Udjo is the perfect destination for you if you’re looking for an educational entertainment experience in Bandung.

Made from bamboo tubes carved to produce a particular note, the angklung produces a sound unlike any other musical instrument, and is considered to be unique to the Sundanese culture.

You can attend angklung-making classes and watch how the instrument goes together with a traditional dance and puppet show performance.

Udjo Ngalegana, a traditional craftsman, built the place in 1966 as a means of giving back to the community. All proceeds of Saung Angklung Udjo go to the education of local students, most of whom are underprivileged children in the area.

20. The only all-white Santorini cave dining in Indonesia – Goldstar 360 Cave

Switch your fancy candlelit dinner with a whimsical cave atmosphere for a different experience!

On the third floor of the multifunctional building Goldstar 360, the Goldstar Cave – a special series of all-white interconnected caves – await. These Greece-inspired caves offer different concepts (outdoors, semi-outdoors and indoors) too.

There is Megas Lakkos (a private area with blue lights), Korydallos (a secluded area with a prison theme), and Stravomyti, Mykonos and Petralona, which are the middle sections with giant glass windows.

The drawings on the wall depict ancient sketches and other symbolic patterns that create an exotic ambience.

Food here is also quite affordable and delicious. Enjoy favourites such as Nasi Goreng, chicken steak or spaghetti, with plenty of drinks, including alcohol. When you’re done cave-hiding, head up to their rooftop cafe on the 5th floor for a 360-degree view of Bandung!

21. Indulge in whimsical rustic beauty – Tafso Barn

How would you like to enjoy an afternoon at a scenic cafe with whimsical vantage points and great food?

In the Ciumbuleuit area, Tafso Barn is making headlines as a must-visit culinary spot. With a scenic view of Bandung, this gorgeous cafe houses a mini golf field, decorated human-sized bird cages, vintage swings and cosy mini tents. This huge area is also divided into separate cafe sections with different concepts. Choose from the shaded tables in the garden or a rustic setting with old barrels as props.

With an extensive menu featuring Indonesian, Western and Japanese cuisine, you’ll be spoilt for choice of delicious bites. Make sure your phone is all charged up – you’ll be snapping away some real #vacaygoals pictures!

22. Here’s where you can feed Bambi and camp under the stars –  Ranca Upas, Ciwidey

In Ranca Upas, you can buy vegetables or carrots to feed the deer (which costs around Rp. 5,000) or simply watch them graze peacefully.

There’s also an outdoor adventure park (complete with a tree house!) and water rides where you both can have fun like real kids, or simply choose to soak in the hot springs.

If you spontaneously feel like spending a night here, camping equipment is also available for rent at the nearby shops. It’s about to get wild!

23. One for the artsy people – Warung Salse

Living up to its name, Warung Salse (which means “to relax” in Sundanese) is meant for those looking for a moment of peace in an intimate setting.

You can sit by the glass windows with the sunlight filtering in or settle down in the open-air area to enjoy the chilly temperatures of Dago. But regardless of which you opt for, you’ll be overlooking the stunning view of lush forests.

Any good time here must include some great quality food. Treat yourself to the chef’s recommendation – Spaghetti Tektek, which fuses Indonesian and Western flavours.

Don’t forget to explore the exterior of the restaurant, which features unique artwork.

24. Travel back to the romantic colonial era – Dakken

For your next romantic night out, travel back in time and spend a special moment in a colonial building.

Set in a colonial residence that dates back to 1910, Dakken’s vintage interiors promise an unusual dining experience for you and your loved one.

Equally beautiful and romantic, you can also opt for their outdoor seating where you can relish its pretty garden views.

While you’re here, don’t miss out on these specialities – Sup Buntut (if you crave for local flavours) or a chunky juicy steak (if you prefer a Western dish). When dessert time clocks in, why not try their special choco lava cake, a real heart-winner!

If you’re looking for more dining alternatives, why not head to the Hilton Bandung and settle at the poolside Fresco Restaurant for a hearty Western meal or Purnawarman Restaurant if you are craving for some Indonesian flavours? (Psst… Purnawarman Restaurant offers buffet dinners on Fridays and Saturdays too!)

25. An affordable picturesque time in nature – Puncak Bintang, Bukit Moko

If you want to spend some quality time but are growing a little tired of the same old “roses and chocolate” routine, switch things up this holiday by being romantic while also showing your love for Mother Nature.

At an altitude of 1,500 metres above sea level, Moko Hill offers unobstructed views of Bandung’s city lights. Its chilly weather and endless views make it the perfect place for a date night out!

With temperatures as low as 18⁰C, we highly recommend you to bring along a jacket, or will your partner’s warm arms suffice?

26. This tea plantation is the perfect Bollywood movie backdrop – Sukawana Tea Plantation

Are you keen on an aroma-tea-raphy session in lush green fields? Tea plantations have long been one of the most appealing recreation choices when around Bandung. With the fresh breeze and a hint of fragrant tea leaves lingering in the air, the experience of being in the middle of green tea territory is simply wonderful.

So what sets Sukawana Plantation apart from the dozen other tea plantations in the area? While other tea plantations are more popular, Sukawana Tea Plantation offers a more intimate experience where you can bask in the views of Mount Burangrang and Mount Tangkuban Perahu from afar.

Come and soak in total bliss in peace.

27. If you’re both serious coffee drinkers – Cups Coffee & Kitchen

Cups Coffee & Kitchen sits on a row of several cafes in the area of Trunojoyo, but there are many reasons to pick this one.

You’ll feel right at home at this garden-inspired cafe that is known for its remarkable coffee beans from Bali and Sumatra – the perfect blend of everything local and authentic that you’ll find comfort in! They also have unusual creative concoctions such as Red Velvet Latte.

While you can pop by at any time of the day, we highly recommend you come for breakfast as the cafe starts serving at 7am. You should definitely give their Granola Bowls a go – they are topped full with goodness like fresh yogurt, crunchy granola, fruit and honey!

And who doesn’t like to have a strong cup of coffee to kick start the day?

If you are staying at Hilton Bandung, Cups Coffee & Kitchen and the cafe hotspot in Trunojoyo are just a short seven-minute drive away! Staying in the heart of the city means you are so much closer to all the action.

Have we successfully convinced you to think beyond walks on the beach and picnics at the Eiffel Tower for your next romantic getaway? Tag your lover below and let them know where you’re heading to next!

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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