Your stay — Riverside
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Manado.
The Property — Riverside
The Riverside hotel in Manado exudes a laid-back, tropical charm, with its wooden accents and lush greenery-draped balconies. Its 60 rooms are simple yet comfortable, with an emphasis on natural light and local textiles. The hotel's USP is its tranquil riverside setting, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing getaway from the bustle of the city. As you step into the lobby, you'll be greeted by the soothing sounds of the river and the warm smiles of the friendly staff.
Chronicles of Manado
Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi, was founded in 1612 by the Spanish as a trading post. The city's architectural landscape is a blend of colonial, Chinese, and indigenous influences, with the iconic Masoula Church standing tall since 1914. Today, Manado is a melting pot of cultures, with a strong sense of community and a thriving arts scene. The city is also a hub for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, with Bunaken National Marine Park located just off its coast. Manado's Ternate crab festival, held every June, is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar, showcasing the local cuisine and traditional dances.
Best Time to Visit
Full Manado guide →Best months
The best months to visit Manado are June and September, when the weather is dry and sunny, with average high temperatures of 28°C. These months offer ideal conditions for diving and snorkelling in Bunaken National Marine Park. Additionally, the crowds are manageable, making it easier to explore the city's attractions.
Peak / festival surge
August is the peak month for tourism in Manado, driven by the Ternate crab festival, which attracts thousands of visitors. Hotel prices surge during this period, with some properties increasing their rates by up to 30%. The festival is a must-see event, with its vibrant parades, traditional dances, and delicious local cuisine.
Budget shoulder season
April and October are the best shoulder months to visit Manado, with comfortable weather and lower prices. You can enjoy the city's attractions without the crowds, and take advantage of discounts on hotel rooms and tours. Keep in mind that these months are still part of the dry season, but the temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from 22°C to 28°C.
Weather & packing
Manado's climate is characterized by a unique phenomenon known as the 'Sulawesi sun', where the sun can be intense during the day but cools down significantly at night. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially during the shoulder months.
Live City Briefing — Manado
- The Manado city government has recently launched a new public transportation system, making it easier for visitors to get around the city. The city's famous seafood markets have been renovated, offering a wider variety of fresh seafood options. The Bunaken National Marine Park has introduced a new marine conservation program, which aims to protect the park's coral reefs and marine life.
Hotel Facilities — Riverside
free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
serves all floors, with 2 elevators
complimentary digital newsstand through PressReader app
check-in from 14:00, early bag-drop from 08:00, late check-out until 12:00 with IDR 200,000 fee
available for IDR 20,000 per item per day, up to 2 items
step-free access via ramps, wheelchair entries at main entrance, some rooms accessible for guests with mobility impairments
onsite parking available at IDR 30,000 per night, valet parking also available; nearest public car park is Jl. Sam Ratulangi parking lot at IDR 15,000 per day; EV charging available at IDR 10,000 per hour
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: IDR 10,000 per person per night (IDR 20,000 for non-Indonesian guests)
Deposit & card hold: IDR 500,000 advance deposit and IDR 200,000 incidental card hold at check-in
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Mosque: MASJID AL AMANAH (194 m · ~2 min walk)
- Place of worship: Masjid (211 m · ~3 min walk)
- Church: Gereja (260 m · ~3 min walk)
- Place of worship: Masjid (303 m · ~4 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Mall — 1.5 km · ~19 min walk
Taman Sindulang — 1.1 km · ~13 min walk
Museum Negeri Sulawesi Utara — 1.2 km · ~15 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
BNI — 638 m · ~8 min walk
Apotek — 295 m · ~4 min walk
Indomaret — 55 m · ~1 min walk
Halte Bus Sarapung — 1.5 km · ~19 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Exchange money at a local bank, such as BCA or BRI, or use an ATM for a better rate. Be cautious of poor exchange rates at the airport or tourist bureaux.
Visa, Mastercard, and contactless payments are widely accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is still preferred for smaller transactions.
Tipping is not expected but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service. For taxi drivers, round up the fare to the nearest thousand rupiah.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →You can find a cup of coffee for around 10,000 IDR (~$0.70 USD) at a local warung or street stall.
A plate of nasi goreng or mie goreng at a local eatery costs around 20,000 IDR (~$1.40 USD).
A main course at a budget-friendly restaurant costs around 50,000 IDR (~$3.50 USD).
The night market at Pasar 45 or the food stalls along Jalan Wolter Monginsidi offer a variety of affordable street food options.
Indomaret and Alfamart are common convenience store chains with a wide selection of groceries and household items.
Local markets like Pasar 45 or the night market offer a range of affordable clothing and souvenirs.
A day pass for Angkudes bus costs around 5,000 IDR (~$0.35 USD). From the airport, take the Trans-Papua bus for around 10,000 IDR (~$0.70 USD).
Avoid eating at restaurants near major tourist areas, as prices tend to be higher. Instead, try local eateries or street food stalls.Use public transportation or walk whenever possible, as taxis can be expensive.Haggle politely when shopping at local markets for the best prices.
Good to know — Manado
Type C/F · 230V
not safe — drink bottled
$1 ≈ IDR 18097.75 · IDR
Emergency Contacts
ManadoWhere to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Manado, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Riverside
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · BNI — 638 m · ~8 min walk — pharmacy · Apotek — 295 m · ~4 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Sam Ratulangi International Airport → M. C. Cottage Bunaken (Bunaken Island jetty, Manado)
💡 Pre-book through hotel for fixed rate; local taxis at arrivals often hike prices. Bargain if paying cash.
Anywhere in Manado city → Bunaken jetty (Pasar 45 area)
💡 Can pay cash or app. Works best in city centre; airport pickups often rejected by drivers. Use with local SIM for reliable data.
Bunaken terminal (Manado) → Kawangkoan (regional routes)
💡 Only useful for out-of-city trips, not for hotel. Single route covers main road. Air-conditioned and reliable, but stops before 6pm. Don't use for jetty runs.
Terminal Malalayang → Pasar 45 (Manado city centre near Bunaken jetty)
💡 Route code 'B' or 'T' covers city centre. Confusing if you don't know Manado—ask driver to drop at 'Pasar 45' for jetty. Expect squashed seating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is check-in at Riverside?
Check-in at Riverside is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Riverside have Wi-Fi?
free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, speeds up to 100 Mbps, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Riverside?
IDR 10,000 per person per night (IDR 20,000 for non-Indonesian guests)
Where can I eat cheaply near Riverside?
A plate of nasi goreng or mie goreng at a local eatery costs around 20,000 IDR (~$1.40 USD).
What is the cheapest way to get around from Riverside?
A day pass for Angkudes bus costs around 5,000 IDR (~$0.35 USD). From the airport, take the Trans-Papua bus for around 10,000 IDR (~$0.70 USD).
When is the best time to visit Manado?
The best months to visit Manado are June and September, when the weather is dry and sunny, with average high temperatures of 28°C. These months offer ideal conditions for diving and snorkelling in Bunaken National Marine Park. Additionally, the crowds are manageable, making it easier to explore the city's attractions.
Top Attractions in Manado
💡 Come at sunrise (around 5:30 AM) to see local joggers and the sun rise behind the mountains. Avoid after 8 AM as it gets hot and crowded.
💡 Visit late afternoon when fishermen return with their catch. The light is good for photos, and you can buy grilled fish cheaply from street vendors.
💡 The statue is better viewed from a distance. Combine it with a walk through the nearby Kampung Jawa market, where you can buy cheap fried bananas.
💡 The hike to the crater rim takes about 2 hours. Bring water and sturdy shoes; the trail is steep and muddy after rain.
💡 Bring your own snorkel gear from town; rental on site is poor quality. Go early morning to avoid crowds and spot dugongs.