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Got quoted a price in Medan? Check it
If you are in Medan right now, type the price you were quoted. Fair ranges and rip-off lines per item keep improving with traveler reports.
Updated October 2026
common in tourist areas · Becak motor fares must be haggled; pushy hawkers at Maimun Palace
Good to knowUse the Railink train from Kualanamu and Grab/Gojek in town to skip haggling
See full travel difficulty: language, transport, payments, safety ›
Where tourists get overcharged most in Medan
Confirm the meter is on or use an app fare before you go. ≈ $2.15
Agree the destination and fare before you set off. ≈ $0.92
Places with a posted price list are safest; ask if the tip is included. ≈ $7.36
Compare what is included (tickets, meals, pickup) to understand price gaps. ≈ $15.3
A block or two away from the sights is cheaper. ≈ $1.84
Check the menu for tax and service charges. ≈ $7.36
Common rip-offs in Medan
- Small "no commission" money changers often short-change with counting tricks. Use Authorized Money Changers or bank ATMs.
- Grab and Gojek fix the fare upfront for cars and bikes. With street taxis, confirm the meter is on before you go.
- Expect to haggle at markets, souvenir stalls, with ojek drivers and surf schools. Open at 60–70% of the first price.
- A "++" on the menu means 10% tax plus a 5–10% service charge on top, so the bill runs 15–21% above menu prices.
How to avoid getting ripped off
- Ask the price before you ride or order, then check it here.
- For taxis and bikes, compare with a ride-hailing app fare; that is your benchmark.
- Where nothing is priced, open at 60–80% of the first quote.
- Pay in local currency; dollar or card conversions are usually worse.
- Report what you paid; it becomes the next traveler's benchmark.
All fair prices in Medan
October 2026 · 1 USD = Rp 16,300
FAQ
How much should a taxi cost in Medan?
For 5 km in town, Rp 28,000–Rp 56,000 is normal; above Rp 67,200 is suspicious. Grab and Gojek fix the fare upfront for cars and bikes. With street taxis, confirm the meter is on before you go.
What is a fair price for a massage in Medan?
About Rp 84,000–Rp 192,000 for an hour; above Rp 230,000 is tourist pricing.
How much is a meal in Medan?
A local meal is about Rp 21,000–Rp 48,000. A "++" on the menu means 10% tax plus a 5–10% service charge on top, so the bill runs 15–21% above menu prices.
What should I do if I got ripped off in Medan?
For small amounts, just check prices first next time. For bigger ones like taxis or tours, keep the receipt or app record, and report what you paid so the next traveler can avoid it.