Nestled in the lush highlands of West Java, Bandung offers a refreshing alternative to Indonesia’s bustling urban centers. Often called the “Paris of Java” for its colonial architecture and fashion-forward culture, Bandung combines natural beauty, artistic vibrancy and an emerging entrepreneurial spirit. Stroll through the lively Braga Street, where art deco buildings house eclectic boutiques, cafes and galleries, or unwind in the city’s cooler climate, a welcome respite from Indonesia’s tropical heat. Doing so reveals why the city ranks an impressive #21 in our overall Lovability index, including #4 in our Instagram Hashtags subcategory and Top 25 spots for both Google Trends and Facebook Check-ins.
Nearby, the Dago Pakar area, Tangkuban Perahu Volcano and Kawah Putih crater lake provide stunning natural getaways, cementing the city’s reputation as a retreat for nature lovers and its #36-ranked Nature & Parks. Bandung’s green spaces do a lot of the heavy lifting for its overall Livability index ranking of #56, and reflect its dedication to creating a balance between urban growth and natural bounty. The revitalization of the Cikapundung River and the creation of parks like Teras Cikapundung add to the network of nature trails, tea plantations and vibrant city parks such as Babakan Siliwangi Forest Walk, a serene urban escape.