Location: Riau Islands, Indonesia · From Singapore: 45–60 min ferry · Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) · Entry: Check passport-specific requirements · Language: Bahasa Indonesia · Time zone: WIB (UTC+7, 1hr behind SG)
What is Batam?
Batam is a city in Indonesia’s Riau Islands, with ferry links to Singapore and Johor. For trip planning, choose between city activities, a resort stay and excursions to the coast or surrounding islands, then match your hotel and arrival terminal.
The island was developed as a free trade zone in the 1990s and today is a blend of industrial zones, modern malls, beach resorts, and traditional Malay kampungs. For Singaporeans and Malaysians, Batam is the go-to weekend escape.
Quick Facts
Getting to Batam: The Ferry
For travel from Singapore, compare ferries from HarbourFront and Tanah Merah. For a departure from Johor, check Berjaya Waterfront’s routes. Batam also has Hang Nadim Airport; check airline availability for your origin and dates. Travel times depend on the route and do not include all check-in, immigration or transfer time.
Three main operators serve this route: BatamFast, Sindo Ferry, and Horizon Fast Ferry. Ferries run from approximately 7am to 9pm daily. Book online in advance, especially for weekends.
👉 See our complete ferry guide for detailed schedules, prices, and terminal information.
Top Things to Do in Batam
- Spa & Massage — Batam has hundreds of spas. A 90-minute full body massage costs SGD 8–15. Must-try experience for every visitor.
- Seafood Dinner — Fresh local seafood (prawns, crabs, fish) at a fraction of Singapore prices. Grilled fish at Kampung Melayu seafood row is iconic.
- Shopping at Nagoya Hill Mall — The biggest mall in Batam with international brands, local shops, and a huge food court.
- Barelang Bridge & Beaches — The famous series of 6 bridges connecting Batam to the outer islands, with beautiful ocean views.
- Golf — Batam has several championship-level golf courses, significantly cheaper than Singapore.
- Island Hopping — Day trips to nearby islands like Bintan, Karimun, or the smaller outer islands.
- Water Sports — Jet ski, banana boat, kayaking at beaches in Nongsa and Batam Centre waterfront.
Where to Stay
| Area | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Nagoya | Shopping, nightlife, central location | Rp200K–500K/night |
| Batam Centre | Ferry access, business, malls | Rp300K–700K/night |
| Nongsa | Beach resorts, golf, families | Rp800K–3M/night |
| Harbour Bay | Waterfront, mid-range options | Rp250K–600K/night |
Money & Payments
Indonesia uses the Rupiah (IDR). Exchange rate: SGD 1 ≈ IDR 11,500–12,500 (check current rate before travel). Always exchange money at licensed money changers in terminals or Nagoya — never street changers.
Cash is king in Batam outside major malls. Always carry sufficient Rupiah especially for warung food, markets, transport, and beaches. ATMs (BCA, Mandiri, BNI) are widely available in malls and city center.
Essential Travel Info
- Entry requirements: Visa exemption and Visa on Arrival are different entry arrangements. Check the option applicable to your passport nationality and travel purpose at Indonesian Immigration. For international arrivals, follow the official All Indonesia arrival declaration guidance
- Power: Indonesia uses Type C/F plugs (same as Europe), 220V. Bring a universal adapter.
- SIM Card: Buy a local Telkomsel or XL SIM at terminal — Rp25,000–50,000 for data packages
- Transport: Use Grab or Gojek (same app as Singapore) for safe, metered rides
- Language: English is limited outside hotels and malls. Google Translate works well for communication
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. Rp10,000–20,000 for spa staff, Rp5,000–10,000 for warung service
Book your return ferry before you arrive — don't assume you can walk up and get a ticket on the day, especially on Sunday evenings when everyone rushes back to Singapore. Book at least 2–3 days in advance for weekends.
Corrections reviewed 6 September 2026: geography overview, arrival routes and entry terminology. Sources: BP Batam, Berjaya Waterfront and Indonesian Immigration. Other price examples in this article require current provider confirmation.