Getting Around Pekanbaru: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Pekanbaru is a moderately walkable city, especially in central areas like Jalan Dagang, where travelers can find shops, cafes, and restaurants within a reasonable distance. However, the walkability is not uniform across the city; some areas dominated by office buildings might not be as convenient for walking. While it offers a decent pedestrian experience in specific neighborhoods, long walks or transportation might be required for certain errands.

The public transit system in Pekanbaru includes Trans Metro Pekanbaru buses and mikrolets, which offer some level of coverage. The city operates 14 bus lines, but with limited frequency and coverage, making it somewhat challenging for travelers to rely on public transportation for all their needs. The availability of a bus service to the airport is beneficial, but payment requiring an e-payment card and potential long wait times can pose inconveniences.

Pekanbaru's flat terrain provides a good foundation for cycling, attracting cycling communities and enjoying initiatives like bicycle lanes on Car Free Days. Despite these positives, the high volume of motor traffic remains a concern, and dedicated cycling infrastructure is not consistently available. While biking is feasible, it might not always be comfortable or safe, especially during busy traffic hours.