Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is a dynamic port city on the island of Java, blending wide boulevards, heritage buildings, and a vibrant waterfront. You will find a thriving urban hub that is less crowded than Jakarta yet full of character, history, and authentic everyday life.

What to expect
The city is defined by its busy harbour, historic Arab Quarter, and colonial-era streets around the old town. Modern shopping malls, leafy residential districts, and riverside promenades sit alongside traditional markets, giving you a varied urban landscape to explore in a single day.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is an excellent base for exploring East Java, including access to volcanic landscapes and coastal getaways. With good domestic connections and a growing hospitality scene, it works well as both a short city break and a starting point for longer journeys across the region.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Visit this well-preserved heritage complex and museum set in a former colonial building with exhibits on local history and industry.

Suramadu Bridge

Drive or ride across this impressive bridge linking Java and Madura Island for sweeping views of the Madura Strait.

Tunjungan Street

Stroll along this central thoroughfare lined with historic facades, hotels, and modern shops that capture Surabaya's urban energy.

Old City (Kota Tua)

Explore the old city district to see colonial-era warehouses, riverside views, and emerging creative spaces in restored buildings.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Step inside a decommissioned submarine displayed along the riverfront to learn about Indonesia's maritime heritage.

Bungkul Park

Relax in this popular city park, known for shaded walking paths, playgrounds, and a friendly local atmosphere in the evenings.

Madura Island day trip

Take a short trip across the Suramadu Bridge to discover quieter coastal villages and distinctive local culture on Madura Island.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Getting around Surabaya is easiest by using metered taxis, ride-hailing services, and the growing network of buses along main routes. For a different perspective, try a becak ride in quieter neighbourhoods. Many central sights group around Tunjungan and the old town, so short walks link key stops.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Surabaya revolves around its streetside stalls, neighbourhood parks, and busy commercial districts. You will notice a strong community spirit, with families gathering outdoors in the cooler hours and students filling cafes. Creative spaces and galleries are emerging in restored warehouses, adding a fresh cultural layer to the city.

Where to unwind
For a break from the traffic, head to Bungkul Park, riverside promenades, or waterfront spots near the harbour. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to enjoy cooler air and soft light. Many hotels also offer pools and spas, giving you a calm retreat after a day of exploring.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for hearty, flavourful dishes served from simple eateries and street stalls. You will find local favourites in neighbourhood warungs and bustling evening food streets, where shared tables and fast service make it easy to sample several specialties in one sitting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern cafes, food courts, and mall restaurants offer everything from local comfort food to regional Asian and international options. Large malls group many choices under one roof, so you can mix quick snacks, coffee breaks, and relaxed sit-down meals between shopping or sightseeing.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for restaurants on higher floors of central buildings or hotels that overlook the city lights. Some venues near the riverfront and in newer districts pair well-presented dishes with wide views, creating an atmospheric setting for a special evening in Surabaya.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya has several large malls where you can find international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family entertainment. These air-conditioned centres are popular meeting points, offering spacious food courts, supermarkets, and lifestyle stores in one convenient place.

Markets & local crafts
For a more local feel, head to traditional markets and smaller commercial streets where you can browse textiles, everyday goods, and simple souvenirs. Neighbourhoods around the old town, the Arab Quarter, and side streets off Tunjungan reveal smaller shops and stalls with a distinct Surabaya character.

Evening retail scene
In the evenings, malls stay lively while street stalls and small night markets appear along busy roads. Brightly lit shopfronts and food vendors create a friendly atmosphere for a stroll after dinner, and you can easily reach these areas by taxi or ride-hailing services.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, days are generally sunny with lower humidity, and average temperatures sit around 27–32°C (81–90°F). Clear skies make it a pleasant time for walking tours, city sightseeing, and excursions to nearby natural attractions.

Wet season (Musim Hujan, November to April, peak season)
The wet season brings short, often intense showers, usually in the late afternoon or evening, with temperatures around 26–31°C (79–88°F). Between showers you can still enjoy warm, bright weather, and the city feels fresh and vivid after the rain.

Transition months (around April and November, low season)
In the transition months, weather can be changeable, with a mix of dry days and occasional showers, and temperatures near 27–31°C (81–88°F). Visitor numbers are often lower, so you may find popular areas a little quieter while still experiencing warm tropical conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions