5 Best Cheap Hotels in Medan Worth Staying At

Cheap Hotels in Medan – If you’re planning a trip to Medan and wondering where to stay without stretching your budget too far, you’re not alone. Many travelers visit North Sumatra’s capital city for its mix of history, culture, and legendary food, but finding a comfortable place to sleep at a reasonable price can be tricky.

The good news is that you don’t have to compromise comfort for affordability. Medan has a number of budget-friendly hotels that offer excellent facilities. Cozy rooms, and easy access to the city’s main attractions, from the majestic Maimun Palace to the lively street markets and cafés serving local specialties.

Here’s a comprehensive look at the 5 best cheap hotels in Medan worth staying at, all personally handpicked for their great value, cleanliness, location, and guest satisfaction.

1. Beda Arga – Cheap Hotels in Medan

Price: Rp 174,131 (1 night, 2 adults)

Location: 3.6 km from Medan Train Station, 5.8 km from Maimun Palace
Distance to Kualanamu International Airport: 27 km

If you’re looking for a clean, no-frills stay close to the heart of Medan, Beda Arga Near RS Royal Prima Ayahanda is a solid option. This 3-star hotel features air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour front desk service.

Each unit comes with a comfortable seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and fresh linens and towels. Some rooms even include bathtubs — a rare find for hotels in this price range.

Guests can enjoy a simple yet tasty Asian or halal breakfast, and the staff are friendly and attentive, ready to help you with anything from directions to transportation. With the Grand Mosque of Medan just 5.9 km away and easy access to local attractions, this hotel is ideal for travelers who want comfort and practicality at a low cost.

2. Desatu Hotel

Price: Rp 439,889 (1 night, 2 adults)

Address: Komplek Center Point Blok D-1, Medan 20232, Indonesia
Distance to Kualanamu International Airport: 23 km

Desatu Hotel stands out among other cheap hotels in Medan for its excellent location and modern design. It’s just 800 meters from Medan Train Station and a short 3-kilometer ride to both Maimun Palace and the Grand Mosque.

All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a personal safe. Some even feature city views. The hotel offers a 24-hour reception, an ATM, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

One of its biggest advantages is its proximity to Center Point Mall, just a 5-minute walk away. Making it ideal for those who love shopping or want to grab a quick meal nearby.

The on-site business center and hair salon make Desatu Hotel especially convenient for travelers combining leisure and work.

3. Pondok Wisata Istana XI

Price: Rp 163,800 (1 night, 2 adults)

Address: Jalan Amaliun No.7, Medan 20212, Indonesia
Distance to Kualanamu International Airport: 23 km

For backpackers or solo travelers searching for the cheapest hotel in Medan without compromising safety and cleanliness, Pondok Wisata Istana XI is a top choice.

The rooms come with free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms, while some even include a game console for entertainment. Linens and towels are provided, and the friendly multilingual staff (English, Indonesian, and Malay) are always available to assist guests at the reception.

Located just 3.3 km from Medan Train Station, this guesthouse offers convenient access to Maimun Palace, Medan Grand Mosque, and the famous Pajak Ikan Market — all within a short drive.

4. Thong’s Inn Hotel Kualanamu

Price: Rp 427,700 (1 night, 2 adults)

Address: Jl. Pasar V Kebun Kelapa, Kualanamu, Deli Serdang, Medan

If you’re arriving or departing from Kualanamu International Airport, Thong’s Inn Hotel Kualanamu is the most convenient option on this list.

This 3-star hotel offers free airport shuttle service, a refreshing outdoor swimming pool, and spacious family-friendly rooms. Guests can relax at the garden café, let their children play in the playground, or unwind at the restaurant that serves both Indonesian and international cuisine.

Many guests praise the smooth check-in process, good food, and cozy atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for travelers who want to stay close to the airport while still enjoying resort-like comfort at an affordable rate.

Highlights: Free shuttle, poolside café, light breakfast, and on-site taxi arrangements.

5. Permata Inn – Cheap Hotel in Medan

Price: Rp 185,000 (1 night, 2 adults)

Address: Jl. Guru Patimpus No.53, Medan 20231, Indonesia
Distance to Kualanamu International Airport: 24 km

Strategically located just 10 minutes’ walk from Plaza Medan Fair and 15 minutes from local markets and food courts, Permata Inn is a traveler-favorite for its warm service and relaxed vibe.

Rooms feature private or shared bathrooms, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. There’s also a sun terrace and free private parking. For extra convenience, the inn provides airport shuttle services at an additional charge — simply request it when booking.

With attractions like Maimun Palace (2.5 km) and Medan Grand Mosque (2.8 km) nearby, it’s the perfect stay for those who want to explore the city on foot or by short taxi rides.

Which Cheap Hotel in Medan Should You Choose?

Each hotel above has its own charm, depending on what kind of traveler you are.

If you want to stay close to the city center, Desatu Hotel and Permata Inn are your best bets.
For airport convenience, Thong’s Inn is unbeatable.
If you’re backpacking or on a tight budget, Pondok Wisata Istana XI offers excellent value for under Rp 200,000.
And if you’re after a quiet and clean mid-range stay, Beda Arga Near RS Royal Prima ticks all the right boxes.

No matter your choice, all these hotels prove that comfort doesn’t always have to come with a high price tag.

Don’t Miss Out on Medan’s Authentic Culinary Delights!

While you’re in Medan, don’t just stay in your hotel, go out and taste the city’s legendary food scene.

One local gem worth visiting is Mie Ayam H. Mahmud, a family-friendly coffee and noodle house that has earned 4.6 stars from over 7,000 Google reviews.

In the morning, you can enjoy traditional lontong Medan or rice porridge alongside a cup of single-shot Medan coffee. At lunchtime, order their signature mushroom chicken noodles, and by night, sip another round of coffee while snacking on Tanjungbalai mussel satay and other local treats.

Unlike typical cafés, Mie Ayam H. Mahmud brings together almost every Medan specialty under one roof. A perfect stop for those who want to taste the soul of the city.

Finding a cheap hotel in Medan doesn’t mean settling for less. With options like Desatu Hotel, Permata Inn, and Thong’s Inn, you can enjoy comfort, convenience, and cleanliness, all within a traveler-friendly budget.

Pair that with Medan’s rich culture and food scene, and your stay in this North Sumatran city will be more than memorable.