Strategically located at the crossroads of Eastern Indonesia, Makassar has long been a vital centre of economic growth as well as a meeting point for cultures, traditions, and ideas. As the capital of South Sulawesi, the city showcases a vibrant urban rhythm seamlessly intertwined with historical legacy and cultural richness. To experience this blend, travellers need only step into the city centre, where past and present unfold side by side.
Makassar emerges as a dynamic metropolis with a strong maritime soul. From its role as a regional powerhouse to its reputation as a haven for culinary treasures, the city invites exploration as a place defined by energy, diversity, and enduring charm.
One of Makassar’s most compelling highlights is Paotere Harbour, a historic local port renowned for its traditional wooden pinisi sailing ships. More than a cultural landmark, Paotere remains a working harbour and lively fish market, supplying fresh seafood daily. Amid the bustle of local trade, visitors can observe the iconic Bugis boats up close, an authentic glimpse of Makassar’s maritime identity and everyday life.
Across the harbour stands Fort Rotterdam, a lasting legacy of the Gowa–Tallo Kingdom on the city’s western coast. Built in 1545, the fort later became a central hub for the Dutch spice trade in Eastern Indonesia and served as a military and administrative headquarters. Rectangular in shape and enclosed by seven-metre-high walls, Fort Rotterdam features five bastions and a collection of well-preserved 17th-century buildings. One of these houses, the La Galigo Museum, collects several prehistoric megaliths from Watampone, as well as ancient weapons, coins, shells, tools, sketches and stamps.
From Fort Rotterdam, travellers can stroll to Losari Beach, Makassar’s most iconic waterfront and a favourite spot for taking in sweeping sea views and memorable sunsets. Beyond its scenic appeal, Losari is also one of the city’s most sought-after places to enjoy authentic Makassar cuisine.
Visitors can sample local favourites such as pisang epe (grilled bananas drizzled with palm sugar syrup and topped with slices of jackfruit), es pisang ijo, featuring bananas wrapped in green rice-flour dough served with sweet coconut rice flour porridge and fragrant syrup, alongside a wide selection of freshly prepared seafood. Other highlights include mie titi, a local noodle dish similar to ifu mie, and many more specialties that make Losari Beach as much a culinary destination as it is a visual one.
Alternatively, visitors may choose a romantic dinner or a private cruise aboard a phinisi boat around Losari Beach. This experience pairs freshly prepared seafood and local specialities with stunning sunset views over the sea. A number of phinisi boat operators are available, offering a range of options to suit different preferences.
Travelling in Makassar is straightforward, with the city offering a wide selection of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels conveniently located near key attractions to more budget-friendly choices.
Visiting Makassar with Accor
International hotel group Accor operates several properties in the city, catering to a variety of preferences and budgets.
ibis Makassar City Center
An ideal choice for exploring the city’s main tourist attractions. Its strategic location offers convenient access to Losari Beach, culinary centres, as well as shopping and souvenir areas. The hotel features 205 modern, minimalist-style rooms, designed to be simple, functional, and comfortable. Each room is equipped with the iconic ibis Sweet Bed, a work desk, an LED TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi, making it suitable for both leisure and business travellers.
Dining options are available at ibis Kitchen, which serves a selection of local and international dishes throughout the day in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Travellers can also unwind at the Lobby Lounge Bar, enjoying a range of hot and soft drinks, an ideal place to relax after a busy day or an afternoon exploring the city.
IG: @ibismakassarcitycent
Novotel Makassar Grand Shayla
Close to Losari Beach, this Novotel offers 320 well-appointed rooms across seven different categories, designed to suit a wide range of guest preferences. The Square Restaurant and Gourmet Bar, located in the hotel lobby, serves a diverse selection of international and local dishes, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavours without leaving the comfort of the hotel.
For those wishing to stay active, the fitness centre is equipped with modern facilities to support daily workout routines. The hotel also sets itself apart through its regular participation in Car-Free Day activities along Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, reflecting its engagement with the city’s vibrant lifestyle.
The Executive Lounge on the 12th floor provides an exclusive and tranquil setting with panoramic views of the city. Meanwhile, the Attic Ballroom, situated on the top floor, features impressive 360-degree views of both the city and the sea, making it a distinctive and elegant venue for business meetings, corporate events, and receptions.
IG: @novotelmakassar
ibis Styles Makassar Sam Ratulangi
A modern and comfortable accommodation which offers a range of room types, from Superior rooms to Family Suites. All rooms provide impressive views of the city as well as the Makassar coastline.
Breakfast is included as a key added value, with a varied menu to suit different tastes. In addition, the hotel features a restaurant, gym, pool, spa, and meeting rooms, catering to both business requirements and leisure needs.
IG: @ibisstyles.makassar
Mercure Makassar Nexa Pettarani
With a strong emphasis on comfort and functionality, appealing to both business and leisure travellers, this hotel features stylishly designed rooms and suites, equipped with modern amenities and thoughtful touches inspired by local influences.
Travellers can enjoy a range of facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant serving international and Indonesian cuisine, as well as well-appointed meeting rooms suitable for corporate events and social gatherings. Strategically located along Jalan A.P. Pettarani, one of Makassar’s main arterial roads, provides convenient access to business districts, shopping areas, and key city attractions.
IG: @mercuremakkasar
