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The Bandar Seri Begawan Travel Guide [Plus 21 Things To Do]
Bandar Seri Begawan
Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital and largest city of Brunei. From a tourism perspective, the city is home to almost all of the country’s major attractions.
Contrary to other Southeast Asian capitals, Bandar Seri Begawan could best be described as “peaceful” or “sleepy”. But this lack of 24/7 bustle is part of what draws travelers to Brunei. The city’s air is clean and roads aren’t overly trafficked. You won’t encounter large crowds of tourists - regardless of the season.
Perhaps Bandar Seri Begawan’s best feature, and what makes it special, is the way the city interweaves with a thriving rainforest. Within 10 minutes, you can go from sitting in a downtown cafe to being on a boat, fully immersed in a mangrove forest! For perspective, BSB has the highest percentage of “green space” of all Southeast Asian capital cities. It’s quite normal to see tropical animals on sidewalks from time to time.
In this travel guide, we’ll explore Bandar Seri Begawan.
We’ll cover the city’s notable history, the top 21 things to do (from a visitor’s perspective), what to eat, where to stay, the best neighborhoods, how you can find the best prices on hotels/accommodation, and your transportation options once in the city.
Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque at sunset
*Agoda.com sells quality, discounted hotel rooms (UP TO $50 OFF!). To see today’s deals on hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
Table of Contents
Brief History And Modern Cityscape
Bandar Seri Begawan has a long, rich history. Including the Kota Batu and Kampong Ayer neighborhoods, this area was the seat of the Brunei Empire for centuries. During that long era, part of the area that currently makes up BSB was called “Bandar Brunei” (Brunei Town). The location of Bandar Brunei was certainly one of a few reasons for the longevity of the Brunei Empire (500 years).
Bandar Brunei was located at the point where the Brunei River empties into Brunei Bay. This allowed easy access for the Bruneians to enter the South China Sea. The town was perfectly suited to become a regional trading hub - where river fishermen could trade easily with gatherers from the rainforest.
Bruneians have been fishermen for centuries
As the local community solidified and grew, Brunei began to trade internationally. Trade relations were established with communities as far away as China, evidenced by records dating back to the 14th century. Being fairly protected by Labuan Island and Brunei Bay’s safe harbor, Bandar Brunei developed into a strong mobilization point for military campaigns outside of Borneo (some as far as the Philippines).
Kota Batu was the 1st prominent settlement within what is now defined as “Bandar Seri Begawan” city. This small neighborhood, just east of the city center and along the Brunei River, is where Brunei’s initial leaders created the seat of the Brunei Sultanate. It was home to a stone fort, which is now known as Brunei’s most important archaeological site.
Kota Batu is where the Bruneian Empire began
Kampong Ayer, the world’s largest water village, succeeded Kota Batu as Brunei’s capital. It held this status for a few centuries, including during Sultan Bolkiah’s reign (not to be confused with Brunei’s current sultan, of the same name), which is fondly called Brunei’s “Golden Age” (1485-1524). James Brooke, the first “White Rajah of Sarawak”, invaded Brunei in 1846. From that point forward, Brunei was progressively forced to cede land and autonomy to the British Empire, until it was eventually relegated to a British protectorate state. As a protectorate state, Brunei essentially functioned as an extension of the British Empire (operating under Britain’s desires).
After gaining control of Brunei, the British officers incentivized residents of Kampong Ayer to move from the water village to the land side, just across the Brunei River. The importance of this area, which now makes up the modern city center, was sped up by the establishment of a new royal palace in 1909, during the era of Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II. By 1920, Brunei’s new capital was mostly situated on the land side.
Many residents of Kampong Ayer moved across the river during the 20th century
Brunei remained a British protectorate state until the Imperial Japanese Army occupied Borneo during World War II (1941-45). The Bruneians and their local infrastructure were greatly neglected during these 5 long years, while Japan tried implementing its concept of pan-Asianism (the creation of a unified East Asia nation, outlined in its “Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere” philosophy).
After the Allied Forces defeated the Imperial Japanese Army in Borneo, Britain would then resume control of Brunei. The population shift from Kampong Ayer to the new capital town continued. By the mid-20th century, only half of Brunei’s population still lived in the Kampong Ayer water village.
During the following decades, Brunei strategically re-built its infrastructure by re-investing profits from its thriving oil and gas industry into the development of social services and a modern business district. Credit goes to intelligent decision-making by Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, who is one of Brunei’s most fondly remembered leaders. This development drew immigrants to Brunei, particularly from China and South Asia. It was during these years that Brunei’s most well-known landmark, and East Asia’s most beautiful mosque, was built - Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
Bandar Seri Begawan’s modern city center
In 1970, Bandar Brunei was renamed “Bandar Seri Begawan”, which translates as “Seri Begawan City” or “Seri Begawan Port”, in tribute to Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III. One of Saifuddien’s royal titles was Seri Begawan. Begawan is derived from the Sanskrit word “bhagavan”, which means “aura of god”. Brunei gained independence from Britain on January 1st, 1984. The new era commenced in grand fashion, with the opening of the world’s largest residential palace, Istana Nurul Iman. In addition to being the royal family’s residence, it’s also the seat of Brunei’s government.
View of Istana Nurul Iman from the Brunei River
Bandar Seri Begawan’s modern city center (known as “Pusat Bandar” in Malay) is where most of Brunei’s important businesses and tourist attractions are located. Though the city has modernized rapidly in the past 50 years, its strong Bruneian roots and cultural charm have remained. Today, the city’s entire metro population is near 300,000, while Kampong Ayer is home to only 3% of Brunei’s total population. Most Bruneians live within a short commute of BSB.
Brunei is divided into four districts.
Bandar Seri Begawan is part of the Brunei-Muara District. The other three districts are Belait, Tutong and Temburong. While Bandar Seri Begawan is now mostly modern and developed, the other districts outside the city are still particularly attractive for the indigenous cultures, as well being places to relax in nature and feel the charm of Borneo island.
Belait, Tutong, Brunei-Muara and Temburong
*Viator.com offers incredible, quality Brunei tours. To see the current top-rated tours in Brunei, click here.
Top 21 Things To Do In Bandar Seri Begawan
Now that you have context about the city’s history and cultural relevance, here is a list of the top 21 things to do in Bandar Seri Begawan. I’ve included a brief description of each attraction, as well as the top-rated relevant tour. If you’d like to read more about any particular attraction, simply click “Learn More” at the bottom of it for its complete in-depth guide!
1) Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
One of the first things you’ll notice when walking around Bandar Seri Begawan are grand, photogenic mosques. It seems at least one is always visible from any point in the city. This was done purposefully.
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is one of Brunei’s national mosques and is undisputed as one of the most beautiful in East Asia. It’s become a national symbol and is commonly used in Brunei’s tourism marketing. Saifuddien Mosque’s interior is finely constructed with Italian marble floors, granite from Shanghai, Arabian carpets and chandeliers from England. Its white minarets and golden domes are visible throughout the city center. Local law prevents any downtown structure to be built taller than it.
A man-made lagoon with a replica of the Mahligai Barge was built along the mosque, creating an effect that resembles Taj Mahal. Saifuddien Mosque and its surrounding area is beautifully lit after dusk. To learn more about Saiffudien Mosque, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of Saifuddien Mosque (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
Saifuddien Mosque is Brunei’s most visited attraction
2) Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is known as Brunei’s other national mosque. It was commissioned by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (Saifuddien III’s son and current Sultan). Like Saifuddien Mosque, Bolkiah Mosque also consistently makes the lists of “Asia’s most beautiful mosques”.
Bolkiah Mosque features a blend of modern architecture, with clear influence from the Ottoman Empire. One of the first things you will notice is its immaculate symmetry. The mosque has 29 golden domes, representing the 29 sultans who’ve led the Brunei Empire during its storied history, which began in the 14th century. To learn more about Sultan Bolkiah Mosque, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of Bolkiah Mosque (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
Bolkiah Mosque is immaculately symmetrical
3) Kampong Ayer
Kampong Ayer is Brunei’s most important piece of living history. A trip to the world’s largest water village is a unique experience that will stick with you long after you’ve left Borneo. The village is entirely built on stilts and inter-connected by 38 kilometers of wooden boardwalk. Called “Venice of the East” by the Spanish explorer, Antonio Pigafetta, this historic village has been through quite a lot.
It began with quite humbling beginnings, as a small fishermen’s village, but then grew to be the seat of the Brunei Empire. Throughout the various eras, some parts of the village were destroyed by fires and invaders, but it continued to rebuild. Even to this day, the village still has the amenities to operate self-sufficiently (while maybe not luxuriously).
During your visit, be sure to stop by the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery. As Kampong Ayer’s official museum, it features a permanent exhibition explaining the area’s history, traditions and current lifestyle of its residents. Take advantage of the opportunity to sleep for a night or longer in the world’s largest water village (see Agoda listings). To learn more about Kampong Ayer, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of Kampong Ayer (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
Kampong Ayer is the world’s largest water village
4) Brunei River Mangrove Tour
No trip to Borneo is complete without a step into nature. Taking a trip up the Brunei River is a great way to get away from the city and see endemic Bornean wildlife. Despite being just a few kilometers from central Bandar Seri Begawan, this mangrove forest truly feels like wilderness once you enter it. Here, you can encounter endangered proboscis monkeys, Asian water monitor lizards, many bird species, crocodiles and breathtaking views of the Bandar Seri Begawan cityscape. To learn more about the Brunei River Mangrove Tour, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of the Brunei River (with incredible views of the proboscis monkeys!), click here.
Proboscis monkeys have unique, protruding noses and a beautiful reddish-brown coat of fur
5) Ulu Temburong Day Trip
Ulu Temburong National Park, affectionately called the “Green Jewel of Brunei”, is easily Brunei’s top national park. Ideally, you should aim to spend one night or more in Temburong District to experience the national park to its fullest - but if you’re tight on time it’s still possible to visit Ulu Temburong as a day trip from Bandar Seri Begawan. The park offers a lot to do, from calm nature walks to jungle treks and zip-line. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the park is the “Canopy Walk”, where you can safely walk a sky bridge that offers views across the jungle canopy! To learn more about Ulu Temburong, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of Ulu Temburong National Park (with the amazing Canopy Walk!), click here.
The Canopy Walk, where you’ll have a panoramic view over the Bornean jungle
6) Gadong Night Market
Gadong Night Market is by far the best all-in-one place to try local food in Brunei. The combination of its wide selection and great prices is what separates it from the rest of Brunei’s markets and restaurants. You’ll find various Bruneian, Indonesian, Malaysian and Singaporean dishes that fill your stomach for just a few Brunei dollars! If you’re familiar with Southeast Asian markets, Gadong may surprise you. Compared to most other large markets in this region, Gadong is spacious, organized and cleaner. The facilities were improved during the government-sponsored renovation project in 2017, yet its local charm and tradition have been well-maintained.
The “Gadong commercial area” is Bandar Seri Begawan’s most bustling part of town, and easily the best place to spend evenings as a visitor. Here, you can also visit Jerudong Fish Market during the day and The Mall, Brunei’s largest shopping mall, from morning til evening. We’ll cover more on the Gadong commercial area in the Accommodation section at the bottom of this guide.
If you haven’t already, read our Brunei Food Guide and 7 Fruits You Should Try In Brunei. You’ll find many of the foods that I mention in those guides are easy to find at Gadong Night Market. To learn more about Gadong Night Market, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of Gadong Night Market (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
Gadong Night Market has endless tasty options
7) Royal Regalia Museum
Royal Regalia Museum features gifts given to Sultan Bolkiah by foreign heads of state. It’s fascinating to see the creativity employed in them. Additionally, the permanent exhibit showcases Bolkiah’s life since his childhood, Queen Saleha and her contributions, plus information about the royal family. By the time you leave, you’ll understand why the Sultan and Queen are beloved by Bruneians. As you enter the museum, you’ll be greeted by a large gilded chariot, built for the 1992 Silver Jubilee ceremony, and still used by the royal family in national celebrations. When not in use, it’s parked here as the museum’s centerpiece. To learn more about the Royal Regalia, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of the Royal Regalia (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
The gilded chariot inside the Royal Regalia Museum
8) Kota Batu Archaeological Sites
Unfortunately, Kota Batu is often skipped by visitors. Though only a fringe neighborhood of Bandar Seri Begawan today, Kota Batu has historical significance. As the original capital of the Brunei Empire, it’s still home to the ruins of an ancient palace, mosque and administrative center - dating all the way back to Brunei’s third Sultan, Sharif Ali.
Kota Batu means “Stone Fort'“ in Malay. What still remains are Brunei’s most important archaeological sites (Kota Batu Archaeological Park, Tomb of Sultan Ali and Mausoleum of Sultan Bolkiah). Just a short walk from the archaeological sites are 3 of Brunei’s major museums (Brunei Museum, Malay Technology Museum and Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum. To learn more about Kota Batu, click here.
Mausoleum of Sultan Bolkiah
*Agoda.com sells quality, discounted hotel rooms (UP TO $50 OFF!). To see today’s deals on hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
9) The Empire Brunei Hotel
The Empire Brunei is one of Southeast Asia’s most luxurious hotels. It’s one of the few “7-star hotels” in the world. The Empire Brunei’s premises are open to the public during their normal business hours, so visitors to Brunei can visit the property at no cost.
Built along the South China Sea on a coastal property containing an 18-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, one can easily spend a full day here. Be sure to explore the hotel’s peaceful walking trail along its coast. The hotel’s interior drips of luxury, including a $1 million USD chandelier that greets you at the grand entrance. Sit for a meal or high tea at one of the hotel’s restaurants. To learn more about the Empire Brunei Hotel, click here.
*To see today’s deals for The Empire Brunei (or other hotels), click here.
The Empire Brunei Hotel
10) Istana Nurul Iman
Istana Nurul Iman is the world’s largest residential palace. As the royal family’s home and as the seat of the Brunei government, it is where Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah hosts world leaders. The palace is closed to the public for most of the year, except during Hari Raya (Aidil Fitri), an annual three-day holiday that celebrates successful completion of Ramadan month.
During Hari Raya, locals and foreigners are invited to join the grand feast in Istana Nurul Iman’s reception hall. After the feast, guests may queue to meet the Sultan or Queen. If you’re unable to visit Brunei during Hari Raya, your best bet to catch a very scenic glimpse of Istana Nurul Iman is through the Brunei River Mangrove Tour. To learn more about Istana Nurul Iman, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of Istana Nurul Iman (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
Grand entrance to Istana Nurul Iman
11) Tamu Kianggeh
Tamu Kianggeh is Brunei’s most complete day market. It sits along the eastern side of the Kianggeh River in Bandar Seri Begawan city center. The market has been a local fixture for years, where fishermen from Kampong Ayer come to trade their catches with fruit vendors from the nearby land villages.
Here, you’ll see a wide variety of food, including produce, spices, prepared meals, and fresh or salted fish. A popular draw for visitors are the dozens of colorful spice mounds, resembling the spice bazaars (souqs) found in Arab countries. Spices are sold by weight. Tamu Kianggeh is busiest on Fridays. Also read our Brunei Food Guide and the 7 Fruits You Should Try In Brunei!
*For the top-rated tour of Tamu Kianggeh Market (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
The bustling Tamu Kianggeh sits along Kianggeh River
12) Malay Technology Museum
The Malay Technology Museum is a must-visit for all culture and history enthusiasts. You’ll see what life was like in Kampong Ayer (including customs, art and lifestyle). You’ll walk through life-sized huts, featuring model humans depicted exactly as they were assumed to have been during daily life a few centuries ago.
You’ll also observe how handicrafts, textiles and boats were made and how sago (the key ingredient in Brunei’s national dish, Ambuyat) is extracted. You’ll leave with an understanding of how Brunei’s rich fishing history developed. The museum features an intact “lintau” (a traditional, ingenious fishing trap that effectively funnels fish toward a narrowing point of no return). To learn more about the Malay Technology Museum, click here.
*For the top-rated tour of the Malay Technology Museum (which includes other major attractions), click here.
Learn about Bruneians’ customs and traditions
13) Ash Shaliheen Mosque
Ash Shaliheen Mosque looks like a mosque you’d encounter in Morocco or Spain. Built in Andalusian form, Ash Shaliheen continues Brunei’s tradition of blending its own style with architectural styles from around the world (both Islamic and elsewhere).
Bright blue domes atop creamy vanilla walls make it a must-visit for fans of religious architecture. The mosque’s interior is worth checking out. A retractable roof opens up to a scenic, peaceful courtyard. To learn more about Ash Shaliheen Mosque, click here.
Ash Shaliheen Mosque was built in the Andalusian style
*Agoda.com sells quality, discounted hotel rooms (UP TO $50 OFF!). To see today’s deals on hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
14) Tasek Lama Recreational Park
Tasek Lama is a natural escape conveniently located at the doorstep of BSB city center. The entrance to the park is located on Jalan Tasek Lama (Tasek Lama Road) - just a 20 minute walk from Royal Regalia Museum. Entrance to the park is free. Apart from the sometimes imposing Borneo sun (better to visit during morning or late afternoon hours), Tasek Lama’s trails are not very physically demanding (all are beginner-friendly). The most popular trail leads to Tasek Lama waterfall, which is even larger and busier than Teraja Waterfall in the Belait District (on the western side of Brunei).
Tasek Lama Waterfall sits at the end of a short trail
OTHER URBAN PARKS
Bandar Seri Begawan actually offers many parks. It’s often called the “greenest” capital city in Southeast Asia. If urban green spaces are of interest to you, also consider 2 others in BSB - Bukit Subok Recreational Park and Tamam Persiaran Damuan Park.
Bukit Subok sits along Brunei River, beside RIPAS Bridge. There’s an elevated wooden platform in the park, offering unobstructed panoramic views of the Brunei River, RIPAS Bridge and the surrounding area. Tamam Persiaran is an open green space popular with families, for its playground and short walking trails. It sits just west of Istana Nurul Iman.
*To join a tour that passes by Tamam Persiaran Park (which also includes other major attractions), click here.
15) Watch A Spectacular Sunset
With so much coastline and intact rainforest, Brunei offers some spectacular sunsets and views. Even if you can’t make it to the “best sunset spots” in western Brunei (Pantai Seri Kenangan in Tutong or the Billionth Barrel Monument in Belait), you still have options in BSB. Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas is the best place in the city to catch a sunset.
The elevated platform offers a panoramic view of the city center, Brunei River and Saifuddien Mosque all from one spot! No need to arrive too early though, as the park offers very little shade. The next best spot to watch the sun set in Bandar Seri Begawan is from the Empire Brunei Hotel. The coastal hotel offers some unimpeded views of the vast South China Sea.
*To join the Bandar Seri Begawan Night Tour (which includes multiple major local attractions), click here.
The view from Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas
16) Explore The City Center (Pusat Bandar)
The Bandar Seri Begawan city center (called “Pusat Bandar”) offers many things to see and do. Apart from the aforementioned Saifuddien Mosque, Royal Regalia Museum and Tasek Lama Park, there are other attractions you’ll see just by walking through.
Across from Royal Regalia is the “Lapau”. This building is closed to the public, but still noteworthy as the site where Sultan Bolkiah was first crowned in 1968 (a notable moment in Brunei’s recent history). Adjacent to the Royal Regalia is the Brunei History Centre, a public building with a few local historical exhibits offering cultural context.
A block away from the Brunei History Centre, along Kianggeh Road, is Teng Yun Temple. Its bright red and green paint is very easy to spot. The functioning Chinese temple is open to visitors. In addition to being a religious center, Teng Yun is a tribute to the large local Chinese-Bruneian community, which has been key to Brunei’s cultural and economic growth and development over the years. In fact, the Chinese were some of the first non-Bornean immigrants to settle in Brunei, and China was one of the Bruneian Empire’s first trading partners in recorded history!
Teng Yun Temple is easy to spot
Also in the city center is the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex, an indoor shopping center sitting along Brunei River, beside the jetty where you’ll see boats departing to Kampong Ayer all day long. Near Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex is Mercu Dirgahayu 60, a gold monument erected as a celebration of Bolkiah’s 60th birthday. It depicts the number 60 written in the Arabic script.
Mercu Dirgahayu 60 monument along the Brunei River
*Agoda.com sells quality, discounted hotel rooms (UP TO $50 OFF!). To see today’s deals on hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
17) Brunei Museum
The Brunei Museum (called “Muzium Brunei” in Malay) is Brunei’s primary history and ethnology museum. As the country’s official national museum, it opened in February 1972, a dozen years prior to Brunei gaining its independence, in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II of England. The exhibits cover various subjects, from the history of Brunei’s indigenous peoples and archaeological sites, as well as some displays of Islamic art made domestically and internationally. It’s the best place to learn about the Brunei Empire’s long history - including its inception in Kota Batu, its expansion to Manila PH, the Castilian War with Spain, and the struggle against Britain’s and Japan’s colonial efforts. To learn more about Brunei’s museums, click here.
*To see the current top-rated tours in Bandar Seri Begawan, click here.
Fishermen have always been important in Brunei
18) Scuba Dive
Most people do not consider Brunei when they think of scuba diving in Southeast Asia. However, the dive industry is growing quickly, thanks to World War II shipwrecks that are well-maintained and have become artificial reefs with thriving marine life. Also, since its reefs don’t suffer much from over-tourism, like some other Southeast Asian countries, Brunei is a great place to learn how to dive.
Costs are competitive and the underwater visibility is good. If interested in diving in Brunei, check out Poni Divers. Their Fun Dive packages are perfect for beginners wanting to learn how to dive, as well as for certified divers seeking macro or wreck dives. To learn more about diving in Brunei, click here.
*To see the current top-rated tours in Bandar Seri Begawan, click here.
Brunei has some incredible shipwreck dive sites
19) Jerudong Park
According to many, Jerudong Park is considered to be one of Southeast Asia’s best amusement parks. It’s received this title for a few reasons, including being Southeast Asia’s largest amusement park, costing $1 billion USD to build (fully government funded). In addition to local Bruneians, Jerudong is now popular with Malaysians, Indonesians and Filipinos as well.
The park has hosted famous global acts, including Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston. While big names perform during major celebrations, lesser known acts commonly perform on any weekend. Entrance to Jerudong Park is free. You’ll pay per ride.
*To join a tour that stops at Jerudong Park (and which also includes other major attractions), click here.
Merry-go-round in Jerudong Park
20) RIPAS Bridge
The RIPAS Bridge, officially Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge, was commissioned by Sultan Bolkiah as a tribute to his wife, Queen Saleha. At 622 meters in length, it’s much shorter than Temburong Bridge (the longest in Southeast Asia), but arguably more beautiful. Its golden dome pierces the sky, resembling the huge minarets of Saifuddien Mosque and Bolkiah Mosque. You can access RIPAS Bridge on your way from the city center to Kota Batu, or walk to it from Kampong Ayer. The bridge also has a pedestrian lane to help you walk safely.
*To join the tour that passes RIPAS (plus other attractions), click here. For the night tour that passes RIPAS (plus other attractions), click here.
The RIPAS Bridge is beautifully lit during the evening
21) Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum
Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum showcases Brunei’s lengthy history as a trade powerhouse. Ideally situated near the mouth of the Brunei Bay, with easy access to the South China Sea, Brunei was a thriving trade hub since at least the 14th century.
Records show Brunei was a trading partner with civilizations as far away as China and the Southeast Asia mainland during that era. The Maritime Museum’s main exhibit also highlights a shipwreck found 50 kilometers off Brunei’s coast. This ship was in process of transporting thousands of artifacts, some dating back 500+ years. To learn more about Brunei’s museums, click here.
*Agoda.com sells quality, discounted hotel rooms (UP TO $50 OFF!). To see today’s deals on hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
Where To Stay
[Neighborhoods & Accommodation]
Most Brunei visitors choose to stay in 1 of 3 neighborhoods in Bandar Seri Begawan. All 3 of these neighborhoods are conveniently located near multiple attractions and only a short trip away from the other two. These three neighborhoods are: Pusat Bandar, Gadong and Kampong Ayer.
Pusat Bandar (City Center)
The most common place to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan is Pusat Bandar (city center). Here, you’ll be situated nearby most of the city’s attractions and just a short walk from Bandar Seri Begawan’s Main Station, the country’s public transportation hub. There are many hotel options in Pusat Bandar, catering to all budgets - from backpackers to luxury travelers. Almost all businesses in the city center shut down by evening, but you can still safely walk around the riverfront area at night. To read more about safety in Brunei, click here.
Bandar Seri Begawan’s city center, also called Pusat Bandar
*For UP TO $50 OFF hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
Gadong
Gadong commercial area is the busiest and most active section of Bandar Seri Begawan. This is where locals come to enjoy their free time during evenings and weekends. This walkable area is home to the Gadong Night Market, Jerudong Fish Market and The Mall (Brunei’s largest shopping mall).
Within Gadong commercial area are a variety of accommodation, dining and shopping options. Don’t expect luxury stores here, instead you’ll find various low priced goods (compared to Europe or East Asia), from clothing to electronics. If you want evening options, whether local restaurants or chains such as McDonalds, you’ll probably prefer Gadong over Pusat Bandar. And because Brunei is a dry country (meaning sale and public consumption of alcohol are both prohibited), Gadong will be the closest thing you’ll find in Brunei to a busy “nightlife scene”.
The Mall, located in the Gadong commercial area
*For UP TO $50 OFF hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
Kampong Ayer
Staying in Kampong Ayer might be the most unique and enriching accommodation choice to be had in Brunei. While most travelers visit the water village as part of a day trip, many don’t know that sleeping here is an option! Just browse Agoda for a few minutes and you’ll see multiple listings.
Compared to attractions of such historical/cultural value in other parts of the world, Kampong Ayer isn’t too touristic (yet), which allows guests to have a truly authentic experience. Of these 3 neighborhoods to choose from, Kampong Ayer is the best for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But you should also note that, rather than the typical hotel setup (of relative luxury), in Kampong Ayer you’d be staying in a guesthouse or a private home. With that said, you can see incredible sunsets and sunrises.
Kampong Ayer is a magical place to stay
*For UP TO $50 OFF hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
Which Neighborhood Should You Choose?
Truthfully, you won’t go wrong whether you choose Pusat Bandar, Gadong or Kampong Ayer. All three are only a taxi, bus ride or 1 BND water taxi away from Bandar Seri Begawan’s major attractions. The choice comes down to your personal preferences of environment and experience.
For the ultimate luxury experience, Empire Brunei Hotel would be your best choice. This immaculately-designed country club is one of the world’s few “7-star” luxury hotels. Luckily, prices for the Empire Brunei’s lowest-tier rooms are lower than other hotels of similar quality (globally speaking). But also keep in mind that the Empire Brunei is about a 30 minute drive from the BSB city center (where most of the country’s major attractions are located).
All in all, rather than recommending you any specific hotels/lodging options (service and quality will vary over time), the best way to find a great place to stay in Brunei is to use the most reliable search options, which leads us to…
*For UP TO $50 OFF hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
The Best Way To Find A Hotel In Brunei
Agoda.com is well-known in Brunei (and Southeast Asia) for providing amazing deals on a wide range of accommodation options. You’ll find luxury or budget hotels, resorts, villas, hostels, apartments, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and unique/alternative types). Use the widget below or click here to search in Brunei.
Transportation In Bandar Seri Begawan
Between public bus, taxi and Dart, navigating the city is easy. Public bus connects all the major neighborhoods. Taxis are abundant in Pusat Bandar and Gadong. Dart is Brunei’s local ride-sharing app, similar to Uber and Grab (neither operate in Brunei). To learn about Dart or to download it, click here.
Bandar Seri Begawan’s Main Station is very centrally located, just a block from Brunei River, at the intersection of Jalan Saifuddien and Jalan Cator. Here you’ll see public buses organized by color and direction (Northern Line, Western Line, etc).
An Eastern Line bus waiting at a bus stop
The cost to get from Bandar Seri Begawan Main Station to Brunei International Airport via bus is only 1 BND. Line 57 will take you to the airport, as well as to Empire Brunei Hotel in Jerudong. You can also take buses from Bandar Seri Begawan Main Station to Pekan Tutong in the Tutong District, and to Seria in the Belait District.
If you’ll be depending on public buses during your visit, keep in mind that they start their routes early but generally end by early evening (sometimes as early as 6 pm). Here’s a PDF of the Brunei-Muara Public Bus Route Network, up-to-date as of September 2024. Brunei-Muara is one of Brunei’s 4 districts (this is where BSB is located).
For river transport to Kampong Ayer, simply take a water taxi from Bandar Seri Begawan’s main jetty. You’ll easily find the jetty behind Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah shopping mall. The cost of a trip across the river to Kampong Ayer is 1 BND. To learn all about the travel costs in Brunei, click here.
Bandar Seri Begawan’s main jetty
*Viator.com offers incredible, quality Brunei tours. To see the current top-rated tours in Brunei, click here.
Bruneian Cuisine
Eating Bruneian food will be one of the best parts of your trip. Bruneian cuisine is a mix of the local, traditional dishes and the regional cuisine from Brunei’s neighboring countries (Malaysia and Indonesia) and even more distant countries, such as India and China (can’t forget the British as well).
Brunei’s cuisine incorporates a range of spices and ingredients, resulting in very flavorful dishes. The origin stories of both Ambuyat (Brunei’s national dish) and Nasi Katok (the national fast food) are sources of national pride for Bruneians. For a complete guide on both of these dishes (as well as many others), where to find them, and the rest of Brunei’s cuisine, read our full Brunei Food Guide.
Ambuyat, fully laid out and ready to be enjoyed!
Eating fruits in Brunei is a memorable experience. Borneo’s vast, tropical rainforest (the Equator crosses the island) produces a wide range and abundance of fresh produce. For more information about fruits, read 7 Fruits You Should Try In Brunei.
Lastly, remember that Brunei follows Islamic law. This means all food is prepared in the halal manner. As a “dry country”, the sale and public consumption of alcohol is forbidden. It’s possible to bring alcohol into Brunei for private consumption, but there are rules regarding this that you must know. To learn about Brunei’s alcohol rules, click here.
Bandar Seri Begawan doesn’t offer much in regards to nightlife. And since alcohol isn’t served, there are no bars. Still, a handful of restaurants and cafes remain open until 10 pm, and a few until midnight (highest concentration of late night restaurants is found in the Gadong area). Most restaurants in Brunei close during Friday prayer. The time varies depending on time of year, but expect a prayer break to start roughly around noon and last for 1-2 hours.
*Agoda.com sells quality, discounted hotel rooms (UP TO $50 OFF!). To see today’s deals on hotels in Brunei (or in another destination), click here.
Conclusion
Hopefully you found this guide helpful.
Bandar Seri Begawan offers stark contrast to the congested megacities of Southeast Asia. But this is also where it gets its charm/appeal. Brunei is not the place to visit if you’re seeking over-stimulation.
Rather, it’s where you’ll re-connect with nature and absorb a local culture that’ll stick with you long after you’ve left. Brunei is not a tourist hotspot yet, but it certainly offers the history, culture, attractions and decent prices to become one. Take the opportunity to experience this remote destination soon! To learn more about Brunei, explore our other guides below.
Enjoy your travels!
Explore Bandar Seri Begawan with these tours below, organized by Viator and run by locals!
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