Surabaya is a lively port city that blends heritage architecture, leafy neighbourhoods, and a modern business core. You find a down-to-earth atmosphere, historic streets, and easy access to wider East Java.
Discover Surabaya
Discover Surabaya
Why visit Surabaya?
What to expect
Expect busy roads, friendly street life, and contrasting districts from the old Arab Quarter to contemporary riverside malls. The city feels authentic and energetic, with coffee shops and local eateries on almost every corner.
Plan your trip
Use Surabaya as a base for East Java, with routes to Mount Bromo, waterfalls, and coastal towns. Plan a few days in the city itself to explore its history, food scene, and relaxed neighbourhoods before or after your excursions.
Top sights in Surabaya
House of Sampoerna
Step into a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial complex that now houses a museum, art gallery, and heritage café, giving you a window into Surabaya history.
Suramadu National Bridge
Cross or view this long bridge linking Java and Madura Island, especially striking at sunset when the lights and sea views create a memorable skyline.
Tunjungan Heritage Street
Walk along historic Tunjungan to admire restored façades, stop at cafés, and see how Surabaya blends its past with a new generation of creative spaces.
Submarine Monument
Visit the decommissioned Russian-built submarine on the riverfront, where you can step inside the vessel and learn about Indonesia maritime history.
Old Arab Quarter and Ampel area
Explore narrow lanes lined with spice shops, textile stores, and traditional houses, soaking up a mix of Indonesian and Middle Eastern influences.
Kenjeran Park and coastal area
Head to Surabaya coastal edge for sea breezes, family attractions, and wide open spaces that offer a refreshing contrast to the inner city.
MURI Bamboo Monument
See this dramatic bamboo sculpture on a city roundabout, a symbol often associated with Surabaya story of resilience and local pride.
Experience Surabaya everyday rhythm
Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to get around Surabaya, especially in the heat. For a slower view, try a becak ride through older districts, then walk shorter distances along shaded pavements for the last stretch to cafés and shops.
Local life & culture
Surabaya moves at a practical, unpretentious pace, with residents gathering in neighbourhood warungs, coffee stalls, and community spaces. You feel the city spirit most strongly in its street art, heritage buildings, and lively evening hangouts.
Where to unwind
Relax in city green spaces like Bungkul Park, popular in the cool early morning and after sunset. Riverside paths, waterfront spots at Kenjeran, and hotel pools offer calm corners to pause between sightseeing and day trips.
A taste of Surabaya
Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for dishes such as rawon (rich beef soup), lontong balap, and sate klopo, often found at simple stalls and traditional markets. Neighbourhoods around old Surabaya and the Ampel area are great for sampling these flavours.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern malls and business districts offer Indonesian favourites alongside Asian and Western options, ideal when you want air-conditioning and choice in one place. Generous portions make it easy to share plates and try several dishes with friends or family.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for rooftop venues and hotel restaurants that overlook the city lights or riverside areas for a more memorable evening. These spots pair local and international menus with wide views, perfect for marking a special night in Surabaya.
Retail therapy in Surabaya
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya malls bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and family attractions under one roof. They double as social spaces where you can shop, dine, and cool off from the afternoon heat.
Markets & local crafts
Browse traditional markets and smaller streets for batik, handicrafts, and everyday essentials, especially in and around old Surabaya and the Tunjungan area. These spots are ideal for picking up authentic, affordable souvenirs.
Evening retail scene
Many malls and neighbourhood shops stay open into the evening, when the air is cooler and streets feel more relaxed. Night-time traffic is manageable, and taxis or ride-hailing services make reaching these districts straightforward.
Best time to visit Surabaya
Surabaya has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry periods. Peak season runs from June to August (peak season), when days are relatively dry and temperatures average around 27–32°C (81–90°F). The shoulder season stretches from April to May and September to October (shoulder season), with warmer days of about 28–33°C (82–91°F) and a mix of sunshine and short showers. November to March is the wettest period (low season), with heavier rains, higher humidity, and temperatures typically between 26–31°C (79–88°F).