Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city and the main gateway to East Java, blending a busy port-city energy with leafy neighbourhoods and historic quarters. You will find a mix of heritage architecture, modern business districts, and a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere.
What to expect
The city stretches along the coast, with the old port area, Chinatown, and Arab Quarter offering narrow streets and traditional shophouses, while newer districts feature malls, hotels, and business towers. Traffic is lively, but wide boulevards, green spaces, and riverside promenades balance the urban pace.
Plan your trip
Surabaya is a practical base for exploring East Java, including Mount Bromo, the cool highlands around Malang, and coastal towns along the Java Sea. With a good range of hotels, dining options, and transport links, it works well for both short stopovers and longer journeys through the region.