Flights from Amsterdam (AMS) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya, gateway to East Java

Surabaya blends a busy port-city energy with leafy neighbourhoods, modern malls, and grand colonial-era buildings. As Indonesia's second-largest city, it is a dynamic base for business, family visits, and exploration across East Java. You will find wide boulevards, riverside promenades, and a skyline that reflects both history and growth.

Beyond its commercial reputation, Surabaya rewards curious visitors with characterful old quarters, creative cafes, and a strong sense of local pride. The city is also a springboard to some of Indonesia's most dramatic landscapes, making it an ideal starting point for wider adventures while still offering the comforts of a major urban centre.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Explore a beautifully preserved Dutch-era complex featuring a museum, galleries, and a charming courtyard cafe.

Suramadu National Bridge

Drive or ride across this impressive bridge linking Surabaya to Madura Island and enjoy expansive sea views, especially at dusk.

Tunjungan Street

Stroll along this historic and modern shopping boulevard lined with landmark buildings, hotels, and lively city life.

Kenjeran Park and Beach

Head to Surabaya's coastal area for sea breezes, family attractions, and wide open spaces by the water.

Bromo and Tengger Highlands trips

Use Surabaya as your starting point for day or overnight tours to the famous Mount Bromo area and surrounding highlands.

Experience the spirit of East Java

Surabaya offers a rewarding mix of urban exploration and easy access to nature. In the city, you can wander through the old town area with its narrow streets and historic warehouses, then contrast it with riverfront promenades and modern parks that are popular with locals in the early morning and late afternoon. The blend of heritage and contemporary design gives each neighbourhood its own distinct feel.

For those keen on day trips, Surabaya is one of the most convenient gateways to East Java's volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and cool hill towns. Many travellers set out before dawn for organised excursions to Mount Bromo and nearby viewpoints, returning to the city in time to unwind in a comfortable hotel or sample its growing cafe scene. Whether you stay in the city or head out to the countryside, you will find varied ways to experience the region at your own pace.

A taste of Surabaya

Surabaya's dining scene brings together bold East Javan flavours, relaxed neighbourhood eateries, and sleek restaurants in shopping malls and hotels. You can start your day with simple dishes at a streetside stall, then move on to modern interpretations of local favourites in stylish interiors later in the evening. The city is known for hearty portions and welcoming service.

Look out for classic East Javan specialities such as rawon, a rich beef soup with dark, aromatic broth, and rujak cingur, a unique salad combining vegetables and savoury-sweet dressing. In between, you will find bakeries, coffee shops, and dessert spots dotted throughout the city. International cuisines are well represented in larger malls and business districts, so you can alternate between local flavours and familiar favourites during your stay.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Surabaya is one of Indonesia's key shopping cities, with large multi-storey malls offering international brands, local labels, and extensive dining floors. These air-conditioned centres are popular gathering spots, making them pleasant places to browse, dine, and people-watch during the warmest parts of the day.

Beyond the malls, you can explore traditional markets and smaller shopping streets where independent shops and local designers showcase textiles, handicrafts, and everyday essentials. These areas offer a more informal experience, with plenty of opportunities to discover unique pieces and observe daily life. Whether you are looking for fashion, souvenirs, or practical items for your journey, Surabaya's varied retail districts give you many options in one compact city.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau), typically from May to October, is generally sunny with low rainfall and daytime temperatures around 30–33°C (86–91°F). As many travellers prefer these clearer days for sightseeing and excursions, this period is considered the peak season and offers bright conditions for outdoor activities.

Transition months (Shoulder Season), around April and November, see a mix of sunny spells and short showers, with temperatures usually between 28–32°C (82–90°F). This shoulder season can feel calmer, with a pleasant balance of greenery after rain and plenty of dry hours for exploring the city and nearby nature.

Rainy season (Musim Hujan), usually from December to March, brings more frequent showers and occasional heavier downpours, while temperatures stay warm at about 27–31°C (81–88°F). As this is the low season, you can enjoy a softer, greener cityscape, comfortable indoor attractions, and refreshing cooler moments after the rain.

Frequently Asked Questions