Flights from Kathmandu (KTM) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is a dynamic port city in East Java, known for its wide boulevards, historic quarters, and gateway access to volcanic landscapes. You will find a blend of heritage architecture, busy modern districts, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere along the Java Sea.

What to expect
The city combines traditional kampung neighbourhoods, colonial-era buildings, and contemporary malls in areas such as Tunjungan and Darmo. Traffic can be lively, but there are many green corners, waterfront promenades, and air-conditioned spaces where you can pause and take in the city at your own pace.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is an ideal base for exploring East Java, including Mount Bromo, vibrant coastal towns, and nearby islands. With a good choice of accommodation and onward transport options, it works both as a standalone city break and as the starting point for a wider Indonesian journey.

Top sights in Surabaya

Heroes Monument

Visit this landmark tower and surrounding park, where exhibits and architecture reflect Surabaya's role in Indonesia's modern history.

House of Sampoerna

Explore a well-preserved museum complex in a historic Dutch-style building, with galleries, a courtyard café, and a glimpse into local industry heritage.

Tunjungan area

Stroll through one of Surabaya's key commercial districts, where shopping centres, hotels, and restaurants line broad, walkable streets.

Surabaya North Quay

Head to the cruise terminal promenade for views over the busy harbour, colourful sunsets, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

Kenjeran Park and beach

Enjoy the sea breeze at this coastal area, where you can walk along the shore, take photos of seaside structures, and unwind outdoors.

Old City (Kota Tua)

Wander past colonial-era warehouses and offices, spotting restored facades and hidden cafés that bring new life to historic streets.

Submarine Monument

Step inside a preserved Russian-built submarine on the riverfront and learn about naval history in an unusual urban setting.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to move between districts, especially in the heat. City buses and newer transport corridors link major hubs, while walking works well in central areas around Tunjungan. For short hops, cycle rickshaws in some neighbourhoods add a slower-paced option.

Local life & culture
Surabaya has a strong sense of local pride, reflected in its public spaces, community events, and lively cafés. Older neighbourhoods feel intimate and close-knit, while newer districts showcase modern Indonesian design. You will notice a relaxed, down-to-earth atmosphere, with families and friends gathering in parks and riverside spots.

Where to unwind
For a break from the city bustle, head to leafy parks, hotel pools, or the waterfront at Surabaya North Quay. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to be outdoors, when temperatures ease and soft light falls across the city skyline and harbour views.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for hearty East Javanese dishes, often full of rich spices and savoury flavours. Around traditional markets and busy local streets, you will find stalls serving classic noodle dishes, rice plates, and tasty snacks from early morning until late evening.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Air-conditioned malls and lifestyle complexes across central Surabaya make it easy to sample a wide variety of Indonesian and international flavours in one place. Many venues offer smaller portions or shared plates, so you can try several dishes with friends or family during a single meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a restaurant in a high-rise hotel, riverside venue, or harbourfront spot with views over the city lights. Some historic buildings have been converted into stylish dining spaces, combining characterful architecture with modern menus for a distinctive Surabaya experience.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya offers large, modern shopping centres where international brands sit alongside local labels and lifestyle stores. These malls often include cinemas, family entertainment, and spacious food courts, making them popular places to spend a comfortable afternoon indoors.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller shopping streets are the best places to look for textiles, batik, and locally made items. Neighbourhoods around the old town, north Surabaya, and some residential districts feature clusters of independent shops and stalls that reward patient browsing.

Evening retail scene
After dark, some streets and mall exteriors come alive with bright signage, outdoor dining, and extended opening hours. Informal street stalls selling clothing and accessories may appear around busy junctions, creating a lively atmosphere that is easy to reach with taxis or ride-hailing services.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, Surabaya is typically hot and less humid, with average temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). Clearer skies make it a good time for city walks and trips to East Java's highlands, with cooler evenings providing comfortable conditions for exploring.

Transition months (April and November, shoulder season)
April and November sit between the main wet and dry periods, bringing warm conditions and occasional showers. Temperatures usually hover around 27–31°C (81–88°F). These months often feel pleasantly balanced, with bursts of sunshine and passing rain that quickly freshens the air.

Rainy season (Musim Hujan, December to March, low season)
The rainy season brings heavier showers, especially in the afternoon, and average temperatures of 26–30°C (79–86°F). Downpours are usually brief, leaving plenty of dry spells for indoor sightseeing, shopping, and dining while you experience the city with fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions