Surabaya is a dynamic port city in East Java, known for its maritime heritage, vibrant neighbourhoods, and easy access to volcanic landscapes. You experience a blend of history, modern city life, and authentic local charm.
Discover Surabaya
Discover Surabaya
Why visit Surabaya?
What to expect
You find broad avenues, lively traditional quarters, and a fast-growing business district, all set beside a busy harbour. Expect warm hospitality, bustling streets, and a relaxed pace compared with Indonesia's biggest metropolis.
Plan your trip
Surabaya is a convenient base for exploring East Java, from Mount Bromo to pristine highland plantations and coastal towns. Plan at least a few days in the city before or after wider journeys in the region.
Top sights in Surabaya
House of Sampoerna
Explore a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial complex that now houses a museum, gallery, and café, offering insight into Surabaya's commercial past.
Suramadu Bridge
Drive or ride across this impressive bridge linking Java and Madura Island for sweeping views over the Madura Strait, especially around sunset.
Old Town (Kota Tua)
Stroll past historic warehouses, riverfront buildings, and shophouses that reflect Surabaya's role as one of Indonesia's most important trading ports.
Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)
Step inside a decommissioned Soviet-built submarine on the banks of the Kalimas River and learn about Indonesia's maritime and naval history.
Tunjungan area
Wander the Tunjungan boulevard and surrounding streets, where restored heritage buildings sit alongside modern hotels, cafés, and city landmarks.
Kenjeran Park and Beach
Head to the coast for sea breezes, casual seaside eateries, and family-friendly attractions around the Kenjeran waterfront area.
Alun-Alun Surabaya
Join locals at this central public square, where illuminated installations, performances, and outdoor seating create a lively evening atmosphere.
Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm
Getting around
Use taxis or ride-hailing apps for most journeys around Surabaya, as they are convenient and widely available. For a different perspective, try a becak ride in older districts, then explore narrow lanes and markets on foot for the final stretch.
Local life & culture
You see daily life unfold in traditional markets, riverside neighbourhoods, and small community spaces where people gather in the evenings. The city balances a strong trading heritage with a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere in both historic and newer districts.
Where to unwind
Escape the heat in shaded city parks, waterfront promenades, and hotel pools, which are most pleasant in the early morning or late afternoon. Cool indoor galleries and museums provide a calm retreat during the hottest parts of the day.
A taste of Surabaya
Street food & local specialties
Seek out local favourites such as rawon and lontong racing at humble warungs and night-time street stalls, especially in the old town and around busy residential quarters. Morning markets are ideal for traditional snacks and sweets.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Air-conditioned malls and contemporary lifestyle centres across West and Central Surabaya offer Indonesian, Asian, and international options side by side. Menus often feature small plates and sharing dishes, so you can sample a variety of flavours in one meal.
Signature & scenic dining
Treat yourself to rooftop restaurants and hotel venues with city views, where you can linger over a carefully prepared meal as the streets light up below. River- and waterfront-side eateries offer a more relaxed setting with fresh breezes and soft evening light.
Retail therapy in Surabaya
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres in central and western Surabaya bring together global brands, local designers, cinemas, and family entertainment. They double as social spaces, where cafés and food courts make it easy to spend a full afternoon indoors.
Markets & local crafts
Visit traditional markets and smaller commercial streets for textiles, batik, and everyday household goods, where you can see local craftsmanship up close. Areas close to the old port and long-established trading districts are especially rich in character.
Evening retail scene
After dark, selected streets, food-centric corridors, and open-air markets come alive with lights, stalls, and late-opening shops. Convenient taxi and ride-hailing services make these districts easy to reach and return from at night.
Best time to visit Surabaya
Surabaya has a tropical climate with two main seasons. The dry season, from May to September (shoulder season), typically sees temperatures around 28–33°C (82–91°F) with lower humidity and clearer skies. The wet season, from November to March (peak season), brings higher humidity, regular showers, and similar temperatures of about 27–32°C (81–90°F). Transitional months in April and October (low season) can be hot and humid, with a mix of sunny days and occasional rain, and temperatures around 28–33°C (82–91°F).