Flights from Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Surabaya, the gateway to East Java

Surabaya is Indonesia’s vibrant second city, known for its dynamic port, wide boulevards, and a blend of colonial and modern architecture. As the commercial heart of East Java, it offers a lively mix of traditional markets, contemporary malls, and bustling neighbourhoods along the Mas River.

Beyond its urban energy, Surabaya is a convenient base for exploring East Java’s natural highlights, from volcanic landscapes to coastal escapes. The city’s rich history, diverse communities, and strong culinary traditions give it a distinct character that feels both authentic and welcoming. Whether you are here for business or leisure, you will find a city that invites you to explore at your own pace.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Walk through a beautifully preserved Dutch-era complex that now houses a museum, gallery, and café set around a charming courtyard.

Suramadu National Bridge

Drive or ride across this landmark bridge linking Surabaya and Madura Island, especially scenic when illuminated in the evening.

Tunjungan area

Stroll the Tunjungan district for colonial facades, modern malls, and a sense of Surabaya’s role as a historic trading hub.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Explore a decommissioned submarine on display by the river and learn about Indonesia’s maritime heritage.

Kenjeran Park and coastal area

Head to Kenjeran for sea views, fresh air, and a relaxed break from the city streets.

Experience the spirit of East Java

Surabaya is a city best experienced on the move. Start your day at a traditional market such as Pasar Pabean or Pasar Genteng, where you can browse local produce, snacks, and everyday goods while watching the city come to life. Later, walk along the streets around Tunjungan and Embong Malang to see a mix of heritage buildings and modern developments.

If you have more time, use Surabaya as a springboard to discover East Java’s dramatic scenery. Organised excursions can take you to the cool highlands around Tretes or to the striking volcanic landscapes further inland. In the evening, unwind in one of the city’s parks or riverside areas, where families and friends gather to enjoy the cooler air and street food.

For those interested in local culture, look out for small galleries, performance spaces, and community events that showcase regional arts and crafts. These intimate settings offer a closer look at the creativity and resilience that define Surabaya’s character.

A taste of Surabaya

Surabaya’s dining scene is full of flavour, shaped by Javanese traditions and influences from traders who have passed through its port for centuries. You will find everything from humble street stalls to stylish cafés, with many places specialising in recipes that have been handed down through generations.

Local dishes are often rich, savoury, and aromatic. Look out for comforting bowls of soto, skewers of satay grilled over charcoal, and hearty rice dishes topped with spiced meats, vegetables, and sambal. In many neighbourhoods, evening brings rows of open-air eateries, where you can sit on simple benches and enjoy freshly cooked meals in a relaxed setting.

If you prefer air-conditioned comfort, Surabaya’s shopping malls host a wide range of restaurants and bakeries. Here, you can sample Indonesian favourites alongside international options, and pick up popular local snacks or cakes to take home as gifts.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

From traditional markets to contemporary malls, Surabaya offers a wide range of shopping experiences. For a sense of the city’s trading heritage, visit markets such as Pasar Atom, where you can weave through corridors of small shops selling clothes, textiles, accessories, and local snacks.

Modern shopping centres like Tunjungan Plaza and Galaxy Mall bring together international brands, local designers, and extensive dining choices under one roof. These malls are popular places to meet friends, enjoy a meal, and browse the latest collections in a comfortable, climate-controlled setting.

If you are looking for souvenirs, explore smaller boutiques for batik, handicrafts, and packaged treats from East Java. Many visitors also pick up practical everyday items, from shoes to homeware, taking advantage of the wide choice concentrated in Surabaya’s retail districts.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau), typically from May to October, brings warm days around 27–32°C (81–90°F) with lower humidity and less rainfall, making it ideal for city sightseeing and day trips. This period often sees more visitors and events, so it is considered the peak season.

Transition months around April and November act as a gentle bridge between dry and wet seasons, with temperatures of about 26–31°C (79–88°F) and occasional showers that quickly clear. These months are a shoulder season, offering lively city life with slightly fewer crowds and a fresh feel after light rain.

Rainy season (Musim Hujan), usually from December to March, features frequent but often short-lived showers, with temperatures around 25–30°C (77–86°F). This low season can be a pleasant time to enjoy indoor attractions, cafés, and malls, while the surrounding landscapes appear lush and green.

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