Flights from Shanghai (PVG) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Surabaya, gateway to East Java

Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city and the commercial heart of East Java, where historic streets sit alongside modern developments and busy port activity. You will find a city that blends maritime heritage, distinctive architecture, and a proud local identity shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange.

Beyond its energetic centre, Surabaya is a springboard to some of Java's most impressive natural landscapes and coastal areas. Use the city as a comfortable base before setting out to explore volcanic highlands, mangrove-fringed shores, and smaller towns where daily life moves at a gentler pace.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Step inside this well-preserved colonial-era complex to explore museum exhibits, a central courtyard, and a small gallery space.

Suramadu National Bridge

Drive or ride across this long bridge linking Surabaya and Madura Island for broad views over the Madura Strait, especially striking at night.

Tunjungan area

Stroll through this historic commercial district, where heritage facades, modern malls, and cafés create an interesting mix of old and new.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Tour a preserved Russian-built submarine moored by the river to get a sense of naval life and maritime history.

Kenjeran Park and coast

Head to the Kenjeran waterfront for sea breezes, coastal views, and a relaxed escape from the pace of the city centre.

Experience Surabaya and East Java

Surabaya invites you to explore on foot, by becak, or by car, moving between historic neighbourhoods, riverside promenades, and modern shopping streets. Wander through older quarters to see colourful houses, narrow lanes, and traditional markets where stallholders sell fresh produce, snacks, and everyday essentials.

Many travellers use Surabaya as a launch pad for day trips and short excursions. From here you can join organised tours into the highlands of East Java, head towards volcanic landscapes at dawn, or explore coastal areas and outlying islands. Within the city, visit small museums and galleries, or join a guided city walk to better understand Surabaya's role as a trading hub and port.

In the evenings, experience the city from one of its higher viewpoints, with rooftop cafés and viewing decks offering panoramas over the harbour, river, and skyline. Night-time is also a good moment to sample local snacks from street stalls or to relax in one of the city parks as the heat of the day subsides.

A taste of Surabaya

Surabaya's dining scene is known for bold flavours, hearty portions, and a wide range of local specialities. You will find everything from humble street stalls and open-air food courts to stylish cafés and contemporary restaurants, many staying open late into the evening.

Do not miss regional dishes that showcase East Javanese cooking, with rich broths, aromatic herbs, and a balance of savoury and spicy notes. Noodle dishes, grilled skewers, and rice-based favourites are easy to find, often prepared to order at small warungs and casual eateries. Many venues offer cooling drinks, fresh juices, and traditional desserts that are ideal in Surabaya's warm climate.

If you prefer international flavours, head to shopping malls and hotel districts, where you can choose from a variety of Asian and Western cuisines. Brunch spots and modern coffee shops are popular gathering places, offering comfortable seating and a chance to watch city life while you dine.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Surabaya offers a mix of large malls, local markets, and smaller independent shops, making it easy to find both everyday items and memorable keepsakes. Air-conditioned shopping centres provide international brands, electronics, fashion, and lifestyle stores, along with cafés and entertainment options.

Traditional markets are the best places to look for textiles, regional snacks, and locally made products. Stalls are often grouped by category, so you can wander through sections dedicated to clothing, homewares, or fresh produce. This is also where you can observe the city at its most energetic, with early-morning trading and lively bargaining.

Elsewhere, smaller boutiques and craft shops sell batik, handicrafts, and design pieces inspired by East Java. Set aside time to explore side streets around major commercial areas, where you may discover family-run shops that have served local customers for generations.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau), May to September, brings warm days around 27–32°C (81–90°F) and lower rainfall, making it a peak season for outdoor sightseeing and excursions from Surabaya into the highlands and along the coast.

Transitional season, April and October, is a shoulder season with temperatures of about 26–31°C (79–88°F), occasional showers, and a pleasant balance of sunshine and cloud, ideal if you enjoy a slightly quieter atmosphere while still having good conditions for city walks.

Wet season (Musim Hujan), November to March, is a low season with temperatures typically 25–30°C (77–86°F) and frequent short downpours, creating vivid greenery, dramatic skies, and comfortable conditions for museum visits, shopping, and café-hopping between showers.

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