Bandar Seri Begawan is capital of Brunei. Known for its grand mosques, serene waterfront, and rich cultural heritage, this city is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia that’s well worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a day trip from Kota Kinabalu or a standalone visit, here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your time in Bandar Seri Begawan.
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Bandar Seri Begawan: Capital city of Brunei Darussalam, on the island of Borneo Country: Brunei Darussalam
Coordinates: 4.9031° N, 114.9398° E
What to eat/drink: Ambuyat, Nasi Katok, Kelupis, Teh Tarik
What to do: Mosque-hopping, cultural museums, river cruises, local markets
Where to stay: Radisson Hotel Brunei, The Brunei Hotel, and budget stays like Apek Utama Hotel
Ideal time to visit: November to February for cooler, dry season weather, and to avoid the heavy rains of the mid-year
Language: Malay, with English widely spoken
Currency: Brunei Dollar (BND); approximate exchange rate: 1 BND = 41 PHP or 0.73 USD (rough estimate)
HOW TO PLAN YOUR BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN ITINERARY
1. DETERMINE THE NUMBER OF DAYS YOU’LL BE STAYING
• 1 Day: Perfect for a quick tour of the city! Focus on highlights like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Royal Regalia Museum, and a stroll along the Brunei Waterfront.
• 2 to 3 Days: Great for a deeper dive! You’ll have time to visit additional spots like the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, take a water taxi to Kampong Ayer, and maybe fit in a mangrove tour or a relaxing river cruise.
• 4 Days or More: Ideal for a relaxed pace with day trips beyond the city, such as Ulu Temburong National Park or the Proboscis Monkey Mangrove Safari. With more time, you can immerse yourself in Brunei’s unique culture and explore at leisure.
Tip: For most travelers, two to three days is ideal, but if you have extra time, you’ll find plenty of peaceful and scenic spots to explore!
• 1 Day: Perfect for a quick tour of the city! Focus on highlights like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Royal Regalia Museum, and a stroll along the Brunei Waterfront.
• 2 to 3 Days: Great for a deeper dive! You’ll have time to visit additional spots like the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, take a water taxi to Kampong Ayer, and maybe fit in a mangrove tour or a relaxing river cruise.
• 4 Days or More: Ideal for a relaxed pace with day trips beyond the city, such as Ulu Temburong National Park or the Proboscis Monkey Mangrove Safari. With more time, you can immerse yourself in Brunei’s unique culture and explore at leisure.
Tip: For most travelers, two to three days is ideal, but if you have extra time, you’ll find plenty of peaceful and scenic spots to explore!
 |
| MERCU DIRGAHAYU 60 AT BRUNEI WATERFRONT |
2. DETERMINE YOUR HOTEL LOCATION
• City Center: This is your best option for easy access to major sights like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Yayasan Mall, and the waterfront. Staying centrally lets you walk to many attractions or take a short ride to others.
• Gadong Area: Known for shopping and dining, this area is perfect if you want to explore local food spots and markets. Gadong Night Market is a must for food lovers!
• Kiulap: A quieter area with a mix of local eateries and residential vibes. It’s close enough to the city center but a little removed from the busier spots, making it ideal for a laid-back stay.
Tip: Bandar Seri Begawan is compact, so most sights are within a quick drive or a short Grab ride.
3. DETERMINE YOUR IDEAL MODE OF TRANSPORTATION
Getting to Bandar Seri Begawan
• By Air: Most visitors arrive via Brunei International Airport, which is just a 15-minute drive from the city center. Direct flights are available from Manila, Kota Kinabalu, and several major Asian cities.
• By Ferry: If you’re coming from Kota Kinabalu, you can take a ferry to Brunei via Labuan. While it’s scenic, the journey is longer than flying, so it’s ideal if you enjoy relaxed travel by sea.
Getting Around Bandar Seri Begawan
• Walking: Bandar Seri Begawan’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to take in the quiet atmosphere of the city and explore at your own pace.
• Dart: This is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Dart is widely used in Brunei, offering flexibility and ease when exploring attractions.
• Public Buses: There are public buses in Bandar Seri Begawan, but schedules can be a bit challenging to navigate. Buses are best for locals, but if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s an option.
Tip: Walking is perfect for exploring the city center, while Grab and public buses are ideal for areas a bit further away.
OUR ITINERARY FOR BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Bandar Seri Begawan was part of our 6D5N trip which included a stopover in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. We started our journey by flying into Kota Kinabalu, then took a scenic cross-border bus ride to Brunei, where we spent Days 1 to 3 exploring the best of Bandar Seri Begawan.
See our cross-border bus journey from Kota Kinabalu to Bandar Seri Begawan here.
DAY 1: KOTA KINABALU TO BRUNEI VIA BUS
DAY 2: BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN CITY TOUR
Lunch at Yayasan Mall
Brunei Waterfront
Here’s a quick overview of estimated costs to help you plan:
• Accommodation (Per Night): 30–50 BND ($22–$36 USD or ~1,230–2,050 PHP) for budget rooms, 60–100 BND ($43–$73 USD or ~2,460–4,100 PHP) for mid-range, 120 BND+ ($87 USD+ or ~4,920 PHP+) for luxury rooms
• Food: 3–5 BND per meal ($2–$4 USD or ~125–205 PHP) for local eats, 10–20 BND per meal ($7–$15 USD or ~410–820 PHP) for mid-range restaurants, and 30 BND+ per meal ($22 USD+ or ~1,230 PHP+) for fine dining restaurants.
• Transportation: 3–10 BND per ride ($2–$7 USD or ~125–410 PHP) for hailed taxis within the city center and 50–80 BND per day ($36–$58 USD or ~2,050–3,280 PHP) for car rentals for day trips outside the city
• Entrance Fees: Mosques and museums are usually free
• Total Estimated Daily Budget:
Budget Traveler: ~50–70 BND ($36–$51 USD or ~2,050–2,870 PHP)
Mid-Range Traveler: ~100–150 BND ($73–$110 USD or ~4,100–6,150 PHP)
Luxury Traveler: 200 BND+ ($146 USD+ or ~8,200 PHP+)
• City Center: This is your best option for easy access to major sights like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Yayasan Mall, and the waterfront. Staying centrally lets you walk to many attractions or take a short ride to others.
• Gadong Area: Known for shopping and dining, this area is perfect if you want to explore local food spots and markets. Gadong Night Market is a must for food lovers!
• Kiulap: A quieter area with a mix of local eateries and residential vibes. It’s close enough to the city center but a little removed from the busier spots, making it ideal for a laid-back stay.
Tip: Bandar Seri Begawan is compact, so most sights are within a quick drive or a short Grab ride.
 |
| TYPICAL BUS IN BSB |
Getting to Bandar Seri Begawan
• By Air: Most visitors arrive via Brunei International Airport, which is just a 15-minute drive from the city center. Direct flights are available from Manila, Kota Kinabalu, and several major Asian cities.
• By Ferry: If you’re coming from Kota Kinabalu, you can take a ferry to Brunei via Labuan. While it’s scenic, the journey is longer than flying, so it’s ideal if you enjoy relaxed travel by sea.
Getting Around Bandar Seri Begawan
• Walking: Bandar Seri Begawan’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to take in the quiet atmosphere of the city and explore at your own pace.
• Dart: This is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Dart is widely used in Brunei, offering flexibility and ease when exploring attractions.
• Public Buses: There are public buses in Bandar Seri Begawan, but schedules can be a bit challenging to navigate. Buses are best for locals, but if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s an option.
Tip: Walking is perfect for exploring the city center, while Grab and public buses are ideal for areas a bit further away.
OUR ITINERARY FOR BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Bandar Seri Begawan was part of our 6D5N trip which included a stopover in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. We started our journey by flying into Kota Kinabalu, then took a scenic cross-border bus ride to Brunei, where we spent Days 1 to 3 exploring the best of Bandar Seri Begawan.
See our cross-border bus journey from Kota Kinabalu to Bandar Seri Begawan here.
DAY 1: KOTA KINABALU TO BRUNEI VIA BUS
DAY 2: BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN CITY TOUR
We decided to go for a self-guided tour around the city’s top spots. Most of these highlights are easy to reach on foot. Alternately, booking a Brunei Half Day City Tour via Klook would be a better option if you prefer a hassle-free trip.
 |
JAME' ASR HASSANIL BOLKIAH MOSQUE |
Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
We started the day with a visit to Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, a must-see with its impressive golden domes and stunning architecture. It’s truly a sight to behold! Remember to dress modestly, and check visiting hours for non-Muslims.
 |
| YAYASAN MALL WITH VIEW OF SULTAN OMAR ALL SAIFADDIEN MOSQUE |
For lunch, we headed to Yayasan Mall. With a good mix of local and international eats, it was the perfect spot to refuel. Trying out Bruneian dishes like Nasi Katok was definitely worth it!
 |
| SULTAN OMAR ALI SAIFUDDIEN MOSQUE FROM THE LAGOON |
 |
| MAHLIGAI |
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
After lunch, we made our way to the iconic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Its marble minarets and reflective lagoon were even more beautiful up close—especially around sunset.
 |
| ROYAL REGALIA MUSEUM |
Royal Regalia Museum
Next, was the Royal Regalia Museum, which offers free entry and displays an impressive collection of Brunei’s royal artifacts. We learned a lot about Brunei’s royal history and got to see some truly unique exhibits.
 |
| TAMAN HAJI PARK |
Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien
The park is a popular spot for local events, national celebrations, and evening strolls. With wide-open spaces, fountains, and well-kept gardens, it’s perfect for unwinding or capturing scenic views of the mosque and city skyline.
 |
| KAMPONG AYER |
We wrapped up the day with a relaxing walk along the Brunei Waterfront, taking in the peaceful river views and Kampong Ayer across the way. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
OPTIONAL DAY TRIPS
OPTIONAL DAY TRIPS
If we’d had a few more days, these day trips from Bandar Seri Begawan would’ve definitely been on our list:
Kampong Ayer (Water Village) Tour
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Kampong Ayer is a unique floating village that would’ve been amazing to explore. A guided tour is a great way to learn about traditional life on the water.
Proboscis Monkey Encounter Tour
A mangrove safari to spot wildlife, especially Brunei’s famous proboscis monkeys, sounds like an unforgettable experience and a fun way to see more of Brunei’s natural side.
HELPFUL TIPS:
• Dress Modestly: Brunei is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative dress expectations, especially in religious sites.
• Alcohol Restrictions: Brunei is a dry country, meaning alcohol isn’t sold here. You can bring a limited quantity with you if needed.
• Respect Local Customs: Bruneians are friendly but appreciate it when visitors follow local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or mosques.
• Language: English is widely understood, so you’ll have no trouble communicating.
BUDGET GUIDE:
 |
| KAMPONG AYER |
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Kampong Ayer is a unique floating village that would’ve been amazing to explore. A guided tour is a great way to learn about traditional life on the water.
Proboscis Monkey Encounter Tour
A mangrove safari to spot wildlife, especially Brunei’s famous proboscis monkeys, sounds like an unforgettable experience and a fun way to see more of Brunei’s natural side.
HELPFUL TIPS:
• Dress Modestly: Brunei is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative dress expectations, especially in religious sites.
• Alcohol Restrictions: Brunei is a dry country, meaning alcohol isn’t sold here. You can bring a limited quantity with you if needed.
• Respect Local Customs: Bruneians are friendly but appreciate it when visitors follow local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or mosques.
• Language: English is widely understood, so you’ll have no trouble communicating.
BUDGET GUIDE:
|
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, BRUNEI
ITINERARY |
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|
ACTIVITY |
TIME |
2 PAX IN A GROUP |
NOTES |
|||
|
EXPENSE IN MYR/BND |
PHP (PER PAX) |
USD (PER PAX) |
||||
|
GROUP |
PER PAX |
|||||
|
Day
1: Arrival in BSB, Brunei |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Arrival in BSB Terminal |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Check-in Accommodation |
|
BND
90 |
BND
45.00 |
PHP
1600 |
USD
32.35 |
3D2N
at Qing Yun Resthouse Bandar |
|
Convert USD to BND |
|
|
- |
- |
- |
Convert
money at Yayasan Mall |
|
Purchase simcard |
|
BND
25 |
BND
12.50 |
PHP
445 |
USD
9.00 |
Divided
by 2 Pax (Bought at Yayasan) |
|
Dinner at Yayasan
Mall |
|
|
BND
10.00 |
PHP
356 |
USD
7.20 |
|
|
Rest |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Day
2: BSB City Tour |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Breakfast near Accommodation |
|
|
BND
10.00 |
PHP
356 |
USD
7.20 |
|
|
DIY Walking Tour |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Bus Station to Jame' Asr Hassanil |
|
|
BND
2 |
PHP
72 |
USD
1.45 |
Via
Bus 1 |
|
Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Jame' Asr to Bus Station |
|
|
BND
2 |
PHP
72 |
USD
1.45 |
Via
Bus 1 |
|
Bus Station to Yayasan Mall |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Lunch at Yayasan Mall |
|
|
BND
10.00 |
PHP
356 |
USD
7.20 |
|
|
Yayasan Mall to Sultan Omar Ali |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Sultan Omar to Taman Haji Park |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Taman Haji Park |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Taman Haji Park to Royal Regalia Museum |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Royal Regalia Museum |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Royal Regalia Museum to Bus station |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
Dinner
near Accommodation |
|
|
BND
10.00 |
PHP
356 |
USD
7.20 |
|
|
Rest |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Day
3: BSB, Brunei to KK, Malaysia |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Breakfast near Accommodation |
|
|
BND
10.00 |
PHP
356 |
USD
7.20 |
|
|
Departure at BSB Terminal |
|
|
BND
0 |
PHP
0 |
USD
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL BND |
|
BND
111.50 |
PHP
3969 |
USD
80.25 |
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL |
PHP
7571 |
USD
151 |
|
|
• Accommodation (Per Night): 30–50 BND ($22–$36 USD or ~1,230–2,050 PHP) for budget rooms, 60–100 BND ($43–$73 USD or ~2,460–4,100 PHP) for mid-range, 120 BND+ ($87 USD+ or ~4,920 PHP+) for luxury rooms
• Food: 3–5 BND per meal ($2–$4 USD or ~125–205 PHP) for local eats, 10–20 BND per meal ($7–$15 USD or ~410–820 PHP) for mid-range restaurants, and 30 BND+ per meal ($22 USD+ or ~1,230 PHP+) for fine dining restaurants.
• Transportation: 3–10 BND per ride ($2–$7 USD or ~125–410 PHP) for hailed taxis within the city center and 50–80 BND per day ($36–$58 USD or ~2,050–3,280 PHP) for car rentals for day trips outside the city
• Entrance Fees: Mosques and museums are usually free
• Total Estimated Daily Budget:
Budget Traveler: ~50–70 BND ($36–$51 USD or ~2,050–2,870 PHP)
Mid-Range Traveler: ~100–150 BND ($73–$110 USD or ~4,100–6,150 PHP)
Luxury Traveler: 200 BND+ ($146 USD+ or ~8,200 PHP+)
Travelling to Brunei or Kota Kinabalu soon? Get Discounted activities through Klook!
Klook.com
Klook.com
Bandar Seri Begawan may be small, but it’s packed with cultural and scenic experiences that make it perfect for a relaxing and enriching visit.
Bandar Seri Begawan is part of our Kota Kinabalu-Brunei trip. Learn more about it here:
FOOTNOTES:
Photos by Rae Argallon and Cheloi Marasigan | Samsung Note 9 | Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei | February 2020
RAESCAPE contains affiliate links in the website. By clicking and purchasing through this links, I get to earn a small commission to help me run this website without extra cost to you. Thank you for helping a fellow traveler and say yes to adventures!
Read about the Disclosure and Disclaimer here.
Photos by Rae Argallon and Cheloi Marasigan | Samsung Note 9 | Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei | February 2020
RAESCAPE contains affiliate links in the website. By clicking and purchasing through this links, I get to earn a small commission to help me run this website without extra cost to you. Thank you for helping a fellow traveler and say yes to adventures!
Read about the Disclosure and Disclaimer here.
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