Bandar Seri Begawan

Brunei Darussalam, Asia

Bandar Seri Begawan, the charming capital of Brunei Darussalam, is known for its stunning Islamic architecture and rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the majestic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the opulent Istana Nurul Iman, and the vibrant Kampong Ayer water village. Visitors can explore the peaceful gardens and indulge in local cuisine, making it an inviting destination for cultural enthusiasts. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity, along with warm hospitality, makes it an appealing location for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Brunei

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Bandar Seri Begawan

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

A stunning mosque, iconic to Brunei's skyline.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Kampong Ayer

Experience the world's largest water village community.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Royal Regalia Museum

Home to the Sultan's royal treasures and artifacts.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Brunei's largest mosque, known for its beautiful architecture.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Tasek Lama Recreational Park

Enjoy nature trails and a serene waterfall in the city.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience the Night Market at Tanjung Bunut

Taste local street food and Brunei cuisine at its best.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Brunei Museum

Learn about Brunei's history, culture, and art.

No booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Ulu Temburong National Park

Experience Brunei's rainforest and canopy walk.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Istana Nurul Iman

The Sultan's palace and the largest residential palace.

Booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Gadong Night Market

A vibrant market for local crafts and food.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a river cruise on the Brunei River

Enjoy a scenic boat ride through Brunei's waterways.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Malay Technology Museum

Discover traditional Malay crafts and technologies.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at the Jerudong Park

A fun theme park with rides and attractions.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-14 (#189 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Brunei Dollar

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Malay

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ambuyat

Sago starch dish served with sauces. (National dish)

Nasi Katok

Rice with fried chicken and sambal.

Pulut Panggang

VE

Grilled glutinous rice with fillings.

Kelupis

VE

Glutinous rice wrapped in leaves.

Hati Buyah

Fried beef liver dish, often spicy.

Phrases to learn

English

Malay

Hello

Salam

(Sah-lahm)

Yes/No

Ya / Tidak

(Yah / Tee-dahk)

Thank you

Terima kasih

(Teh-ree-mah kah-see)

Excuse me

Maaf

(Mah-ahf)

How much?

Berapa?

(Ber-ah-pah)