📍 Welcome to Brunei-Muara
Brunei has only four districts: Belait (largest), Tutong, Temburong, and Brunei-Muara (smallest but mightiest). I only visited Brunei-Muara, but don’t be fooled by its size—this is where Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city, is located. It’s the heart of commerce, culture, and politics. 🌆🇧🇳
You’ll need more than three days to fully explore this district, so plan accordingly. Let’s dive into the top attractions by location, using Jubilee Hotel as our starting point.
🔗 For the full itinerary: Brunei Darussalam 3D2N Itinerary »
🕌 BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN AREA
🥭 1. Tamu Kianggeh (Kianggeh Market)
This was actually our very first stop after settling into Jubilee Hotel, and what a great way to start the trip! Tamu Kianggeh gave me my first taste of local life—literally. The market is colorful, lively, and full of charm. I loved how locals smiled warmly as I passed by their stalls, and I couldn’t resist buying some freshly made kueh cincin and jala for breakfast snacks.
Don’t miss:
🍈
Sampling fruits I’ve never heard of before like tarap and membangan
🎁
Bargaining for local crafts like the beautiful tudung dulay
🛶
Taking a spontaneous water taxi ride to Kampung Ayer—it’s right there!
🗺️ Read More »
🕌 2. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
This mosque stopped me in my tracks—literally. I first saw it from afar while walking in Yayasan, and I was drawn to its majestic glow. The golden dome, the serene water surrounding it, and the elegant minarets are absolutely unforgettable. As a non-Muslim, I appreciated how welcoming they were, offering robes and guidance to visitors.
Travel Tip:
✨
Visit at night—this
place glows like a lantern in the dark
🧕🏼
Women must wear the provided robe and head covering inside
📷
Snap a photo with the mahligai barge outside—it’s like stepping into history!
🗺️ Read More »
🛍️ 3. Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex
After our visit to the mosque, we headed to Yayasan for a quick breather and ended up staying way longer than planned. This place isn’t huge, but it has everything—from a nice grocery (perfect for pasalubong!) to cute cafes where I cooled down with a milk tea.
I was so thrilled to spot Boncafé coffee—the one I’d been looking for back home in Manila for months. Plus, I scored Cadbury Dark with Mint which I rarely see elsewhere!
What I loved most:
🛍️
Convenient shopping with the mosque as a gorgeous backdrop
☕️
My surprise “coffee treasure hunt” success!
📸
That granite walkway is perfect for Instagram shots
🎉 4. Mercu Dirgahayu 60 Monument
We stumbled upon this after a relaxing walk along the riverbanks. We weer just looking for food when I saw this elegant golden monument—it was Brunei’s tribute to their beloved Sultan's 60th birthday. The setting, right beside charming riverside cafes, made it feel so regal and yet very much part of everyday Bruneian life.
🍽️ Dine at Kopi Bandar nearby—We ordered their curry and couldn’t believe how affordable it was!
🌊 5. Kampung Ayer (Water Village)
Kampung Ayer was the highlight of my trip—hands down. I remember thinking, How is this even real? Entire neighborhoods built on stilts, complete with schools, clinics, and mosques! I took a water taxi just before sunset, and that view of Istana Nurul Iman glimmering in the golden hour? Absolutely unforgettable.
💡 Insider Tip:
🏡
Ask your boatman to swing by Kampung Sungai Matan Homestay—so peaceful
and authentic!
🎟️
Visit the Cultural & Tourism Gallery for free exhibits and cool
souvenirs
🌅
Don’t miss the sunset ride—pure magic
👑 6. The Lapau & Dewan Majlis
This building is rich with royal history—it's where Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah was crowned in 1968! I didn’t go inside because we didn’t schedule a visit, but even from the outside, it felt grand and historic. I remember standing there imagining how regal the coronation must’ve been.
👑 Travel Tip: If you’re into royal history, try to schedule a tour inside through Brunei Tourism ahead of time.
🗺️ Read More »
📚 7. Brunei History Centre
This was right next to the Royal Regalia Museum, but unfortunately, it was closed when we visited. I had planned to learn more about Brunei’s royal lineage and ancient sultanate stories here. I’ll definitely return for this next time.
📌 Note: Opening hours may vary—check before your visit!
🗺️ Read More »
👑 8. Royal Regalia Building
This museum totally blew me away. It’s regal, elegant, and—surprisingly—free! After removing our shoes and securing our bags in a locker, we stepped into a world of royal gifts, ceremonial regalia, and even a replica of the Sultan’s throne.
🎁 Must Do: Take photos in the outer gallery (only place allowed!), then just soak in the royal splendor inside.
🗺️ Read More »
🌳 9. Tasek Lama Recreational Park
We stumbled upon this spot looking for a nature break, and it was one of the most pleasant surprises! You wouldn’t expect to find a forest trail and waterfall right in the city center. We didn’t have a guide, but following the path was easy and fun.
🌿 Try this: If you’re up for a mini adventure, follow the trail to the waterfall—or just relax and people-watch near the playground.
🏰 10. Istana Nurul Iman
This is not just a palace—it’s the largest residential palace in the world, and it’s designed by a fellow Filipino, Leandro Locsin. 🇵🇭 It made me proud seeing Filipino excellence on this grand scale. We couldn't enter (it's only open during Hari Raya), but even from the outside, it was impressive.
🌇 My favorite view: From the water taxi during sunset—the golden dome glows beautifully. Don’t miss that.
🗺️ Read More »
🛕 KOTA BATU & JALAN TUTONG AREA
🎨 11. Arts & Handicrafts Centre
This riverside centre preserves Brunei’s traditional crafts like weaving and brasswork. It’s not super touristy, but that’s what I loved—it felt genuine and peaceful.
🎁 If budget allows: Pick up handmade souvenirs here—they’re more authentic than those in malls.
🗺️ Read More »
🌄 12. Bukit Subok Recreational Park
We took a short walk from Bandar and found this hidden gem. The viewing decks gave us a great perspective of the city skyline and Kampung Ayer. It’s not crowded either—just peaceful views and fresh air.
📷 Perfect for early morning or late afternoon photos!
🏛️ 13. Bubongan Duabelas (House of Twelve Roofs)
This stately home-turned-gallery has a storybook feel. It’s one of Brunei’s oldest surviving buildings and was once home to British officials. It’s a lovely stop if you're into architecture or history.
🏞️ Also offers panoramic views of Kampung Ayer.
⚓ 14. Mausoleum of Sultan Bolkiah
This spot is a little off-the-beaten path, but visiting the resting place of the “Singing Admiral” (the 5th Sultan) was meaningful. His reign was considered the Golden Age of Brunei. It felt solemn and serene.
🕊️ Worth a quiet visit for those interested in Brunei's deep history.
🏛️ 15. Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum
Although smaller than other national museums I’ve seen, this one had some interesting Islamic art and maritime relics. We passed through quickly, but I would love to spend more time here next time.
💡 Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Malay Technological Museum—they’re very close!
🧰 16. Malay Technological Museum
This museum was one of the highlights of my second day. It’s all about how ancient Bruneians lived, worked, and built things. I found the boat-making and goldsmithing displays fascinating. Great way to understand the roots of Brunei’s culture.
🎟️ No entrance fee, and very well curated!
🗺️ Read More »
🕌 GADONG & JERUDONG AREA
🕌 17. Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
This is hands-down the most majestic mosque I’ve seen in Brunei. I couldn’t help but stare at the towering minarets and the golden domes—especially when they lit up at night. It's so big that you can see it from the highway on the way to the airport.
If you can time your visit when the mosque is open to the public, go inside. I wasn’t able to enter, but even just viewing it from the outside was worth the drive.
✨ Night visit highly recommended—those domes are magical when lit up.
🗺️ Read More »
🛍️ 18. The Mall (Gadong)
After all the sightseeing, I needed some AC and a good meal, so we headed to The Mall in Gadong. This 8-story complex is a one-stop spot for shopping, movies, and food cravings. I was happy to finally try Ambuyat, Brunei’s national dish, at the food court. Add a Teh Tarek (milky pulled tea) and you're good to go!
🍽️ Try the local eats—even at the food court, they’re authentic and flavorful.
🥾 19. Bukit Shahbandar Forest Recreational Park
We originally planned to just “swing by” here, but it ended up being one of the more physically challenging parts of the trip 😅. Locals say it’s their favorite hiking and jogging spot, and I could see why—it’s peaceful but has intense uphill trails.
🌄 There’s an observation tower with a great view, if you’re up for the hike!
🏨 20. The Empire Hotel & Country Club
Wow. Just wow. This 6-star luxury hotel isn't listed as an official tourist attraction—but it really should be. We visited right before sunset, and the whole place looked like something out of a royal movie. Grand chandeliers, gold touches everywhere, and beachfront views? I could stay there forever.
💡 You can walk around and
explore as a visitor, just respect the restricted guest-only areas.
🌅
Go during golden hour for the full luxury experience!
🗺️ Read More »
🌺 21. Rimba Horticulture Business Centre
If you're a plant lover like me, this is such a soothing place to visit. From ornamental flowers to tropical plants, the center is full of greenery. It’s not a typical tourist stop, but it’s a refreshing way to slow down and connect with nature.
🌿 Add this to your list if you love gardens or want a peaceful escape.
🎠 22. Jerudong Park Playground
Sadly, we ran out of time and weren’t able to visit this park, but I wanted to include it here because it's a fun option especially if you're traveling with kids. It opened in 1994 to celebrate the Sultan’s 48th birthday and has rides like carousels, dodgem cars, and even a pirate ship!
🎪 Also check out the Jerudong Market nearby for local snacks and produce!
🏖️ BERAKAS & MUARA BEACH AREA
🏟️ 23. Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium
We didn’t spend too much time here, but this stadium is where major public events and sports competitions are held, especially Brunei National Day. Locals also use it for jogging and workouts.
🚶 Worth a quick stop if you’re into sports or architecture.
🎤 24. International Convention Centre
This was more of a drive-by view, but it looked really impressive from the outside! We passed by it after visiting the stadium on our way back to the hotel. It hosts political events and international conventions.
📍 Can skip if short on time, but still interesting to see.
🌲 25. Berakas Forestry Recreational Park & Berakas Beach
This park was such a gem! We brought some snacks and had a little afternoon picnic here. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone who just wants a peaceful forest-meets-sea vibe.
🍖 There are BBQ pits,
huts, and trails for short nature walks.
🏖️
The nearby beach is great for breezy, sandy strolls.
🐊 26. Meragang Beach (aka Crocodile Beach 🐊 —but don’t worry!)
Don’t let the name scare you—there were no crocs in sight, just peaceful waves and a wide sandy shoreline. It’s not crowded at all, and the sunset views here are breathtaking. A lovely, quiet alternative to the more popular beaches.
🌅 Sunset chasers—this one’s for you!
🌊 27. Muara Beach
This is one of the most accessible and well-maintained beaches in Brunei. It’s 27 km from Bandar, but totally worth the drive. There are shaded picnic areas, changing rooms, and even food stalls on weekends.
☀️ Perfect for families or chill
beach days
🍢
Try some grilled street food if you visit on a weekend
🏄♂️ 28. Serasa Beach & Water Sports Complex
If you’re into water sports or just want a more lively beach vibe, Serasa is the place to go. Locals come here to kayak, windsurf, or just enjoy a swim. It’s the most developed of the beaches and has complete facilities for international-level events.
🌊 A great spot to end your Brunei-Muara trip with some beach fun!
✨ While writing this guide, I realized I covered a lot of Brunei-Muara, but there’s still more I want to explore. What I missed this time, I’ve bookmarked for next! That’s the beauty of Brunei—it’s compact but rich in culture, heritage, and nature.
🔑 Tips from My Experience:
- Start far, end near: Always plan your itinerary starting from the farthest site so you’re closer to the hotel by nightfall.
- Modest dress is a must, especially for mosques.
- No traffic, no trains—but don’t worry, driving is easy and peaceful!
- Bring sunscreen and a hat if you’re doing a lot of walking or beach hopping.
📢 Need Help With Your Brunei Itinerary?
Just drop a comment below and I’d be happy to help you map out your trip, especially if you're short on time or want to make the most of it like I did. Don’t forget to check out my related guides below!
📚 Related Blog Posts You Might Like:
➡️ 🇧🇳 14 Things to See & Do in Belait District, Brunei’s Oil-Rich Region
»
➡️ 🌿 8 Things to Do in Temburong District, Brunei – Hidden Rainforest Wonders »
➡️🏞️ 4 Things to See in Tutong District, Brunei – Nature, Culture & Peace
»
🧳 Our 3-Day Brunei Adventure Series:
➡️ 🇧🇳 Brunei Darussalam Day 1: National Day, Tamu Kianggeh, Tamu Selera & Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
➡️ 🇧🇳 Brunei Darussalam Day 2: Royal Regalia 🏛 | Tasek Lama 🌿 | Kampong Ayer 🚤 | Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque 🕌tyhukj,m,
➡️ 🇧🇳 Brunei Darussalam Day 3: A Royal Finale with Empire Hotel, Istana Nurul Iman & Jame'Asr Mosque
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