Flights from Frankfurt (FRA) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is a dynamic port city on the north coast of East Java, known for its wide boulevards, maritime heritage, and welcoming atmosphere. It is a place where historic quarters, modern malls, and waterfront promenades sit side by side.

What to expect
You can explore characterful neighbourhoods, from colonial-era buildings in the old city to busy traditional markets and contemporary business districts. The city offers a relaxed pace compared with larger capitals, with leafy streets, coastal breezes, and a growing creative scene.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is a practical base for discovering East Java, including volcanic landscapes and coastal towns. With well-connected road, rail, and air links, it works well for both short city stays and longer journeys through the region.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Visit this museum complex in a preserved historic building to learn about local heritage and see traditional architecture.

Suramadu Bridge

Drive or ride across this impressive bridge linking Java and Madura for wide views over the Madura Strait, especially towards sunset.

Tunjungan Street

Stroll along one of Surabaya's most famous streets, lined with malls, hotels, and historic façades that glow at night.

Old Town (Kota Tua)

Wander through the old town area to see a mix of colonial-era buildings, warehouses, and lively street life.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Explore a preserved submarine on the riverbank and gain an insight into Indonesia's maritime history.

Kenjeran Park and Beach

Head to the waterfront to enjoy sea views, fresh air, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the city centre.

Ciputra Waterpark

Spend a fun family day at one of the largest waterparks in the region, with pools and slides to cool off in the heat.

Maharani Zoo and Cave (day trip)

Take a trip outside the city to combine wildlife viewing with a walk through an illuminated limestone cave.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
In Surabaya, taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to move between districts, especially in the heat. For a more local experience, you may also see colourful minibuses on main routes. Walking works well within individual neighbourhoods and malls for short distances.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Surabaya centres on family, community, and work, with many residents gathering in cafés, malls, and roadside stalls after dark. The city has a strong trading and seafaring history, which you can feel around the port and traditional markets, where merchants and shoppers keep up a lively pace.

Where to unwind
When you want a break from the urban streets, you can relax in city parks, waterfront areas, and hotel pools. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the most pleasant times to be outdoors, with softer light and cooler temperatures ideal for a gentle walk or a quiet drink by the water.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for hearty Javanese and East Javanese dishes, with flavours that are rich, savoury, and often spicy. Busy streets, small neighbourhood eateries, and casual markets are ideal places to sample local favourites in a relaxed setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Large malls and lifestyle centres across Surabaya house food courts, cafés, and family-friendly restaurants offering Indonesian, Asian, and international menus. Small plate options and shared dishes make it easy to try several flavours in one meal, whether you prefer quick snacks or a longer sit-down dinner.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, you can dine in rooftop venues, high-rise hotel restaurants, or waterfront locations with views over the city lights. Many offer a mix of local and international cuisine, paired with panoramic outlooks that turn dinner into a memorable part of your trip.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya is known for its large shopping centres, where you will find international brands, local labels, cinemas, and a wide choice of dining. These malls act as social hubs, offering air-conditioned comfort and convenient services for an easy day out.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and traditional shopping streets are good places to look for textiles, accessories, and everyday essentials. Neighbourhood centres around the old town and established local districts offer a more informal atmosphere with small shops and independent traders.

Evening retail scene
After dark, malls stay lively and many streets remain busy with shoppers, diners, and families enjoying the cooler air. Some areas feature pop-up stalls and informal vendors, adding to the evening energy. Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services make it straightforward to reach these districts at night.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, Surabaya is generally sunny and warm, with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). Clear skies make it ideal for walking city streets, taking day trips, and enjoying sunset views along the waterfront.

Wet season (Musim Hujan, November to April, peak season)
The wet season brings higher humidity and regular showers, with temperatures averaging 26–31°C (79–88°F). Rain often falls in short bursts, leaving much of the day free for indoor attractions, shopping, and dining in the city’s many malls and cafés.

Transitional months (around April and November, low season)
In the shoulder between wet and dry periods, weather patterns can shift from showers to brighter days, with temperatures of about 26–31°C (79–88°F). These months can feel a little quieter, giving you extra space to explore markets, museums, and parks at a relaxed pace.

Frequently Asked Questions