For travelers with a layover in Batam, the proximity of BTH to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 80 minutes via Taxi/Ride-sharing apps (Grab), and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Batam, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Indonesia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Batam is roughly 80 minutes from BTH via Taxi/Ride-sharing apps (Grab). Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in IDR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IDR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Hang Nadim International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Hang Nadim International Airport into town:
- Taxi/Ride-sharing apps (Grab): About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Bag Storage Near BTH
Specific locker facilities at BTH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Batam itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Batam:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
How to Spend Your Time in Batam
If you head into Batam, here are two things worth checking out:
Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BTH, check out Executive Lounge (Hang Nadim) or Airport Shops & Souvenirs to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Batam: Golden Prawn 933 Seafood Restaurant and Warung Makan Padang Sederhana (Nagoya Hill). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Solaria or Hang Nadim Food Court. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at BTH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Indonesia and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at BTH
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BTH has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Batam genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.