Looking for ideas on what to do in Batam for a short break? Batam is the perfect destination for a 2-day, 1-night getaway. Just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Batam offers a great mix of relaxation, culture, and shopping. Whether you’re planning to unwind at a spa, explore some local sights, or try delicious local cuisine, this itinerary covers the highlights. Plus, if you’re wondering what to eat in Batam, you’ll get to sample some of the island’s best seafood and local dishes during your trip.

Day 1: Arrival, Relaxation, and Nightlife

Morning: Take the Ferry to Batam

Catch an early ferry from HarbourFront Centre to Harbour Bay Downtown. The short ferry ride makes Batam one of the most convenient destinations for those looking for a quick weekend getaway from Singapore. After arriving in Batam, check into your hotel—options like Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay or Batam Marriott Hotel Harbour Bay offer comfort and convenience due to their location near the ferry terminal. For more hotel options in the area, click here to access our blog post about hotels in Harbour Bay Downtown.

Afternoon: Spa Time & Family Activities

Start your afternoon with a relaxing spa session at The Spa Secret near Nagoya Hill Mall. Known for its luxurious yet affordable treatments, this spa offers everything from full-body massages to rejuvenating facials, providing the perfect way to unwind.

Spa Central Batam is another excellent option for families, especially if you’re traveling with children. Spa Central has a Kids Club where your little ones can enjoy supervised playtime, movies, and snacks while you indulge in a massage. It’s the perfect place for parents to relax, knowing that their kids are entertained and well cared for on-site.

After your spa session, it’s time to explore some dining options within Nagoya Hill Mall:

Reniun Restaurant. Photo Credit @ Mel Mak.
  • Renuin Restaurant: If you’re looking for a cozy spot that caters to large groups and families with young kids, Renuin Restaurant is perfect. They offer a variety of Indonesian and Asian dishes, with main courses starting at just Rp 18,000 (S$ 1.50) and set meals beginning at Rp 38,000 (S$ 3.20).
  • Common Space Coffee & Bar: For a more laid-back vibe, head to Common Space Coffee & Bar. It’s a trendy spot, great for unwinding with family or friends after a busy day of exploring or shopping. They serve a range of coffee, cocktails, and light bites, with prices between Rp 55,000 and Rp 130,000 (about S$ 5 to S$ 12).
  • J.Co Donuts & Coffee: When it comes to quick and affordable treats, J.Co is a must-stop. Their donuts are a crowd favorite, with a dozen priced at Rp 85,000 (SGD 7.16). I always make sure to grab a Jacky Chunk or Crunchy Crunchy donut when I’m there. And here’s the best part: with every drink order, you get a classic glazed donut on the side, free!

Here are some nearby activities for families:

Cinema XXI. Photo Credit @ Jaman Batam.
  • Movie Options at Nagoya Hill Cinema: Cinema XXI in Nagoya Hill Mall is a great spot for families, offering clean, spacious seating for a relaxing experience. Tickets starts at Rp50,000 (about SGD 4.20). International movies are shown in their original language, with Indonesian subtitles for English films, and both English and Indonesian subtitles for non-English films.
  • Kids’ Play Area: Nagoya Hill Mall has a dedicated indoor playground where kids can run and play. It’s a great option for some post-spa fun and keeps them active while you shop or relax.
Evening: Seafood Dinner and Nightlife
Photo Credit @ Jco Riupassa

Nagoya Foodcourt features over 30 stalls, offering a great mix of local and international dishes. Whether you’re craving kway teow, bakmi pangsit, or fresh seafood like kam heong crab, there’s something for everyone. The lively setting, complete with live bands and football screenings, adds to the fun atmosphere. It’s located just 10 minutes from Harbour Bay Ferry Terminal, making it a convenient dining option. Prices range from Rp 20,000 to Rp 50,000 (around S$1.80 to S$4.20), perfect for sampling a variety of dishes.

If you’re up for a scenic drive, Love Seafood Piayu is about 40 minutes from Harbour Bay Ferry Terminal and is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood. The best time to visit? Go just before sunset to enjoy the beautiful views as you dine by the water. Popular dishes like grilled prawns and chili crab are priced from Rp 70,000 to Rp 150,000 (about S$6 to S$13). It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, scenic meal after a day of exploring Batam.

After dinner, you can either dive into Batam’s nightlife or keep things laid back. If you’re up for some fun, head to Golden Tiger for live music and drinks. It’s a lively spot, perfect if you want to continue the evening with a vibrant atmosphere. For something more relaxed, take a stroll along the promenade at Harbour Bay Downtown. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the sea breeze and unwind, especially after a good meal. Both options offer a great way to end the night in Batam.

Day 2: Explore, Shop, and Departure

Morning: Panbil Nature Reserve and Golf
Panbil Nature Reserve
Photo Credit @ Panbil Nature Reserve

Kick off your morning with a peaceful escape to Panbil Nature Reserve. The reserve is a hidden gem in Batam, offering lush greenery, well-maintained walking trails, and opportunities to interact with local wildlife like rabbits and deer. You’ll feel a sense of calm as you stroll through the tranquil surroundings, perfect for nature lovers seeking a quiet retreat. Don’t forget to bring your camera—this place is full of picturesque spots! If you’re up for it, rent a bike to explore the area more extensively.

For golf enthusiasts, nearby Padang Golf Sukajadi offers a relaxing round of golf with stunning scenery and a serene atmosphere.

Cafes and Restaurants Nearby:

Photo Credit @ Bhinneka Batam
  • Piccola Stella: A cozy Italian restaurant offering wood-fired pizzas and Italian favorites like pasta. The interior has a charming, rustic vibe with warm lighting, making it perfect for families and groups. Prices range from Rp 70,000 to Rp 150,000 (around S$6 to S$13).
  • BPK Sukajadi: Known for its Babi Panggang Karo (Batak-style pork), this casual eatery has a simple, no-frills setup with no air conditioning, making it ideal for groups looking for hearty local food. Prices range from Rp 50,000 to Rp 120,000 (around S$4 to S$10).
  • Bhinneka Indonesian Resto & Cafe: This café has a cozy, traditional Indonesian atmosphere, with wooden furnishings and a laid-back vibe. The menu offers favorites like nasi goreng and ayam penyet, great for families. Prices range from Rp 40,000 to Rp 120,000 (around S$3 to S$10).
Afternoon: Shopping and Dining at Grand Batam Mall
Photo Credit @ Pakcik Dolly

After a relaxing morning, head to Grand Batam Mall for a fun shopping experience. In the basement, you’ll find the massive Top 100 supermarket, perfect for stocking up on local products like Indo Mie and snacks. Don’t miss the Mantato booth for their famous fluffy, tasty French fries. The mall also has an arcade, a kids’ playground, and lots of snack booths, making it ideal for families.

Evening: Last-Minute Gifts and Departure

At Bay Front Mall, located conveniently next to Harbour Bay Ferry Terminal, there are several notable places to shop and dine before catching your ferry back to Singapore.

For last-minute souvenirs, D’Paris Snack on level 1 is a great spot for local treats like kueh lapis and premium bird’s nest. They offer a variety of Indonesian snacks, making it a popular choice for tourists looking to bring home authentic flavors. Additionally, Lapis No. 1 Premium Kueh Lapis and Lapisa Premium Layer Cake Shop are other top spots for those looking for a sweet gift to take back home.

With your bags full of local treats and memories, board your ferry back to Singapore, feeling relaxed and refreshed from your quick island escape. Until next time!