Flights from Taipei (TPE) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is a dynamic port city on the northeastern coast of Java, known for its wide boulevards, historic districts, and evolving creative scene. You will find a mix of heritage architecture, leafy neighbourhoods, and modern developments that give the city an energetic yet grounded feel.

What to expect
The city is shaped by its waterfront, colonial-era quarters, and contemporary business districts, all linked by busy main roads and growing public spaces. You can explore atmospheric old streets, stroll along urban promenades, then move easily into newer areas with cafés, malls, and hotels that cater well to visitors.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is a practical gateway for discovering East Java, including mountain landscapes and coastal escapes. Many travellers combine time in the city with excursions to nearby highlands and nature spots, using Surabaya as a well-connected base with good accommodation, transport links, and services.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Step into a well-preserved historic compound with galleries and exhibits that share the story of Surabaya's commercial and architectural heritage.

Suramadu Bridge

Drive or ride across this long bridge linking Java and Madura Island for sweeping views of the Madura Strait, especially striking in the early evening.

Tunjungan Street

Wander along one of Surabaya's most recognisable streets, lined with historic buildings, shops, and city landmarks that come alive after dark.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Explore a decommissioned submarine turned museum, set beside the river in a central park area that is popular with local families.

Old Town (Kota Lama)

Discover streets of heritage warehouses and offices near the port, where you can appreciate the city’s past as an important trading hub.

Bungkul Park

Relax in this urban green space, a favourite local meeting spot with walking paths, trees, and regular community activities.

Kenjeran Park and Beach

Head to the coast for sea views, open spaces, and a cooler breeze, especially pleasant in the late afternoon and early evening.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
In Surabaya, taxis and ride-hailing services are the most practical way to cover longer distances between districts. For a more local perspective, short rides in city minibuses or becak pedicabs can be memorable on quieter streets. Walking works well within individual neighbourhoods and parks.

Local life & culture
Daily life revolves around neighbourhood cafés, casual eateries, and community spaces where families and friends gather throughout the day. You will notice a strong sense of local pride, from restored heritage buildings to murals and small creative businesses. Shopping streets and parks are particularly lively in the evening.

Where to unwind
You can unwind in Surabaya’s green parks, riverside walks, and coastal areas, which offer a welcome break from the main roads. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for enjoying cooler temperatures and softer light. Many hotels also feature pools and simple wellness facilities for a calm end to your day.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for flavourful local dishes served at simple stalls, food courts, and small eateries across the city. Neighbourhoods near traditional markets and older districts are especially good for discovering long-standing vendors and regional specialities with bold, satisfying tastes.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find convenient dining options in Surabaya’s shopping centres and newer commercial areas, where cafés and restaurants offer a mix of Indonesian favourites and international choices. Menus often feature smaller sharing plates alongside hearty mains, so you can sample several dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose rooftop venues, hotel restaurants, or places overlooking the cityscape and major roads. These settings combine comfortable interiors with wide views, making them ideal for relaxed dinners or business gatherings. Advance reservations are recommended at the most popular spots on weekends.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya has several large malls that bring together international brands, local designers, supermarkets, and cinemas under one roof. These centres are popular social spaces, with air-conditioned interiors that make them comfortable throughout the day and convenient for combining shopping with dining.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and traditional shopping streets are the best places to look for textiles, everyday items, and crafts. Areas around the old town, long-established market complexes, and busy local districts showcase everything from clothing and accessories to simple souvenirs made by local producers.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, Surabaya’s malls stay lively, and some streets glow with illuminated shopfronts and food stalls. Late-night opening hours make it easy to browse after a day of sightseeing or business. Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services help you move comfortably between different shopping areas after dark.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (musim kemarau)
From May to October, Surabaya experiences its dry season, with average temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F) and lower humidity. This is considered peak season, with clearer skies that are ideal for city walks, coastal visits, and excursions to the surrounding highlands.

Transition months
April and November sit between the main dry and wet periods, with temperatures of about 27–31°C (81–88°F) and occasional short showers. As a shoulder season, these months offer a pleasant balance of sunshine and cloud, fewer crowds, and flexible conditions for both indoor and outdoor activities.

Wet season (musim hujan)
From December to March, the wet season brings more frequent rain, usually in short, intense bursts, with temperatures around 27–30°C (81–86°F). This low season is a comfortable time for exploring Surabaya’s malls, museums, and cafés, with quieter attractions and fresh air after rainfall.

Frequently Asked Questions