Where to Stay in Makassar
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Quick Answer
Stay in Panakkukang
Proximity to large shopping malls like Panakkukang Mall and Mall Ratu Indah provides entertainment and dining options.
See full Makassar neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Makassar
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
Panakkukang
A commercial and residential hub with shopping malls and local eateries.
Our top picks in Panakkukang
Offers good value with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
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Losari
A bustling waterfront promenade with vibrant street food and sunset views.
Our top picks in Losari
Ujung Pandang
The historic heart of Makassar, centered around the Dutch fort and colonial architecture.
Our top picks in Ujung Pandang
A large, modern hotel with extensive facilities including pools and restaurants.
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Panakkukang | Budget | A commercial and residential hub with shopping malls and local eateries. | familiesbudget | Safe during the day, but be mindful of p... |
Losari | Mid-range | A bustling waterfront promenade with vibrant street food and sunset views. | first-timersfoodies | Generally safe during the day with plent... |
Ujung Pandang | Mid-range | The historic heart of Makassar, centered around the Dutch fort and colonial architecture. | culturehistory buffs | Generally safe during the day, but some ... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Makassar
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
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Tips for Families in Makassar
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Makassar, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Makassar
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Makassar
Panakkukang
BudgetA commercial and residential hub with shopping malls and local eateries.
- +Good shopping and dining options
- +More local feel than Losari
- +Generally more affordable accommodation
- -Can be noisy due to traffic
- -Less tourist-oriented attractions within walking distance
๐ก๏ธ Safe during the day, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded market areas; at night, stick to main roads and well-lit areas.
Losari
Mid-rangeA bustling waterfront promenade with vibrant street food and sunset views.
- +Iconic sunset views
- +Abundant street food options
- +Central location
- -Can be very crowded, especially evenings
- -Traffic congestion
๐ก๏ธ Generally safe during the day with plenty of people around; at night, stick to well-lit main areas and be aware of your surroundings.
Ujung Pandang
Mid-rangeThe historic heart of Makassar, centered around the Dutch fort and colonial architecture.
- +Rich historical sites
- +Charming colonial atmosphere
- +Good access to the harbor
- -Limited modern amenities
- -Can feel quiet at night
๐ก๏ธ Generally safe during the day, but some side streets can be deserted at night; stay on main roads and be aware of your surroundings.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
IDR 700000/day
Hidden Gems in Makassar
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Pantai Akkarena
This beachfront park offers a more relaxed vibe than the main waterfront, perfect for watching the sunset over the Makassar Strait with locals enjoying street food and local games.
Pasar Malam Toddopuli
FREEExperience the vibrant night market atmosphere, a favorite among locals for its wide array of delicious and affordable street food, from grilled seafood to traditional sweets.
Benteng Somba Opu
FREEExplore the ruins of a historic Sultanate palace, offering a glimpse into Makassar's rich past. It's a fascinating historical site often overlooked by tourists.
Bantimurung National Park
A bit outside the city, this park is known as the 'Kingdom of Butterflies' for its stunning diversity of butterfly species and beautiful waterfalls, a natural escape loved by locals.
Safety in Makassar
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise usual precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, dress modestly, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas like major roads or busy promenades. Avoid isolated streets. Be cautious of opportunistic petty crime.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unregistered taxi drivers.
- 2Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
- 3Requests for money or 'donations' from persistent individuals.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Makassar
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Makassar Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Makassar on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Makassar Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Makassar with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Makassar: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Makassar's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Makassar: Scenic Excursion
Escape Makassar for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Makassar Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Makassar's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Makassar
Families in Makassar: FAQ
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