The capital of West Sumatra, Padang has several houses built in traditional architecture, including the Padang Museum which houses objects of cultural and historical interest.
The beach of the bay of Bungus and its white sands is good for swimming, boating or just watching the fishing boats going out to sea in the afternoon. Small boats can be hired from here to some small islands nearby: Sirandah, Sikoaci.

The heart of the highlands, Bukittinggi is a two-hours drive through beautiful countryside of the Anai falley and up to the Agam Plateau. A centre of attraction is the town's clocktower topped with a hornshaped roof and referred to by the people as Jam Gadang. It overloks the market square and the citys magnificent surroundings.
Located 930 metres above sea level, Bukittinggi formerly named Fort De Cock by the Dutch has a cool climate and is surrounded by three volcanoes: Tandikat, Singgalang and Merapi. In the outskirts of the town is the Ngarai Sianok, a canyon separating Bukittinggi from Kota Gadang, 12 km away overland.

Kota Gadang is renowned for its fine silver filigree and hand embroidery. Also worth visiting is the Museum which is a Rumah Gadang, a traditional extended family house built in the 19th century.

It is a botanical garden covering 70,000 ha, with a rare collection of flora and fauna, situated on the way to Solok, about 300 - 1,000 m above sea level. The cool mountain air and panoramic views make this area a popular resort for both the young and old. Monkeys and other animals can be found here, and are protected by the Park Warden. Transportation to Taman Hutan Raya Bung Hatta is easy as it lies on the highway to Solok.

The largest port on the west coast and a bustling harbour cross-roads for rubber, cinnamon, coffee, tea and nutmeg. It is the principal gateway to both the Minang High-lands and the Mentawi Islands