Flights from Perth (PER) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is a dynamic port city on the north coast of Java, blending historic districts, leafy neighbourhoods, and a growing modern skyline. You will find busy streets, waterfront views, and a relaxed, down-to-earth atmosphere that feels distinctly different from Indonesia's resort destinations.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Madura Strait, with character-filled quarters such as the old Arab Quarter, Chinatown, and the Dutch-influenced old town. Wide roads, large malls, and business districts contrast with narrow alleys, local markets, and riverside promenades, giving you many ways to experience daily life.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is a convenient base for exploring East Java, including the volcanic landscapes around Mount Bromo and the cool highlands inland. With good onward connections by road and air, it works well as both a city break and a starting point for a longer journey through Java and beyond.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Explore a well-preserved Dutch colonial building housing a museum and gallery, set around a charming central courtyard.

Suramadu Bridge

Drive or ride across this striking bridge linking Java and Madura Island, especially atmospheric when lit up at night.

Tunjungan heritage area

Walk past restored buildings and classic shopfronts in this historic district that now mixes heritage architecture with modern life.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Step inside a decommissioned submarine on the riverfront and learn about Indonesia's maritime history in an unusual setting.

Kenjeran Park and beach area

Head to the coast for sea views, breezy promenades, and family-friendly recreational spaces along the shoreline.

Chinatown (Kya-Kya area)

Stroll through busy streets lined with traditional shophouses, local eateries, and atmospheric side alleys.

City parks on Jalan Raya Darmo

Enjoy wide, tree-lined avenues and pocket parks in one of Surabaya's greener, more residential neighbourhoods.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most practical way to cover longer distances in Surabaya, especially between your hotel, malls, and historic districts. For a different perspective, short becak or scooter rides can be memorable. For nearby streets, walking early in the morning or late afternoon is most comfortable.

Local life & culture
Much of Surabaya's daily rhythm plays out in its neighbourhood markets, old town lanes, and community sports fields. In the early morning, you will see residents exercising in parks and along major boulevards, while evenings bring families and friends together in open-air squares, food streets, and riverside areas.

Where to unwind
Leafy residential districts and city parks offer calm pockets amid the busy roads, especially around Darmo and the western suburbs. Waterfront areas provide sea breezes and wide views, while hotel pools and spa facilities give you space to slow down after exploring. Sunset and early evening are ideal times to enjoy the cooler air outdoors.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for hearty, flavourful dishes served at simple warung stalls and casual eateries. You can try local favourites in neighbourhood streets, traditional markets, and clusters of small vendors that appear in the late afternoon and evening across the city.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and business districts host a wide range of cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serving Indonesian and international flavours. Food courts make it easy to sample several dishes in one visit, with smaller portions encouraging you to try something new each time.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for hotel restaurants and rooftop venues with views over the city lights and the Madura Strait. Some riverside and coastal spots combine open-air seating with relaxed music and soft lighting, creating an unhurried setting to end your day in Surabaya.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya has several large shopping centres where you will find international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family entertainment under one roof. These malls double as social hubs, offering cafés, restaurants, and event spaces where locals gather throughout the week.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and traditional streets are ideal for browsing everyday items, textiles, and gifts. Districts near the old town, Chinatown, and the Arab Quarter reveal rows of shops selling fabrics, accessories, and household goods that reflect the city's trading heritage.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many areas stay lively with illuminated shopfronts, night-time food streets, and late-opening malls. You can combine shopping with a relaxed walk and a meal, then use taxis or ride-hailing services to return comfortably to your hotel.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (musim kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, Surabaya is generally hot and sunny, with average temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). Clear skies make it a good time for day trips and walks in city parks, and afternoon breaks indoors help you avoid the warmest hours.

Wet season (musim hujan, November to April, peak season)
In the wet season, temperatures stay warm at about 27–31°C (81–88°F), with short, intense showers often in the afternoon or evening. The city remains active, and the rain can bring cooler breezes, making early mornings and post-rain walks feel particularly pleasant.

Transitional months (around April and November, low season)
The transition between seasons brings a mix of dry and rainy days, with temperatures around 28–31°C (82–88°F). These months can feel quieter, and changing skies give the city a softer light, offering comfortable conditions for exploring museums, malls, and neighbourhood cafés.

Frequently Asked Questions