Flights from Hangzhou (HGH) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is Indonesia's thriving port city on the island of Java, known for its dynamic urban energy, layered history, and access to dramatic volcanic landscapes. You will find wide boulevards, waterfront views, and characterful neighbourhoods that blend heritage buildings with modern developments.

What to expect
The city is defined by its busy harbour, historic quarters, and leafy residential districts, all linked by a growing network of roads and bridges. Business districts sit alongside older streets, while riverside promenades, local parks, and contemporary malls shape the daily rhythm of life for residents and visitors alike.

Plan your trip
Surabaya works well as both a standalone city break and a base for exploring East Java, including mountain viewpoints and coastal areas. Its well-connected airport, busy rail links, and onward road routes make it a practical gateway to the wider region, whether you are travelling for work, family visits, or leisure.

Top sights in Surabaya

Surabaya North Quay

Stroll along this waterfront promenade for harbour views, passing ships, and a relaxing breeze at sunset.

House of Sampoerna

Explore a well-preserved Dutch-era complex that now serves as a museum, gallery space, and cultural venue.

Tunjungan Street

Walk this central avenue lined with historic buildings, modern hotels, and busy shops that showcase the city's evolution.

Surabaya Submarine Monument

Step inside a preserved submarine on the riverbank to learn about maritime history in an unusual setting.

Surabaya City Hall Area

Admire civic architecture and landscaped gardens that offer a quieter corner in the middle of the city.

Kenjeran Park and beach area

Head to the coast for sea views, fresh air, and open spaces popular with local families on weekends.

Bromo day trip gateways

Use Surabaya as a convenient starting point for organised trips to the famous volcanic scenery of East Java.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
You can move around Surabaya by metered taxi, ride-hailing services, and the city bus network, which covers many key districts. For shorter distances, walking between linked malls and central streets is practical, especially in the evening when it is cooler.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Surabaya unfolds in busy markets, modern coffee shops, and community parks where people gather in the early morning and late afternoon. Neighbourhoods range from historic quarters with narrow lanes to newer areas with mid-rise apartments and offices, giving you a sense of a city that is continually growing.

Where to unwind
Green spaces, riverfront walks, and coastal areas offer calm breaks from the traffic. Early morning and late evening are the most comfortable times to enjoy outdoor spots, when the air is cooler and the city lights begin to reflect on the water and skyline.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for flavourful noodles, rice dishes, and grilled snacks served from simple stalls and small eateries. You will find lively food streets and casual corners near markets and office areas, especially busy at lunchtime and after work.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and mixed-use complexes around central Surabaya offer convenient places to eat, with cafes and restaurants serving Indonesian favourites, pan-Asian dishes, and international options. Portions are often suited to sharing, so you can try a variety of plates with family, friends, or colleagues.

Signature & scenic dining
For a more memorable meal, look for restaurants in upper floors of hotels or towers that overlook the city, especially at dusk when the lights come on. Waterfront and rooftop venues provide relaxed settings for business dinners or special occasions with a distinctive Surabaya backdrop.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya is home to several large malls, where you can find international fashion labels, local brands, cinemas, and family entertainment under one roof. These centres are popular meeting places, with many cafes and restaurants that make it easy to combine shopping and dining.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller shopping streets are ideal for browsing everyday goods, textiles, and simple souvenirs. Districts around older parts of town showcase smaller traders and independent shops, giving you a more local perspective on the city’s commercial life.

Evening retail scene
After dark, some streets and malls stay lively with illuminated storefronts and extended opening hours, creating a relaxed atmosphere for an evening stroll. Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services make it straightforward to reach the main shopping areas in the evening.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (musim kemarau, May to October, peak season)
During the dry season, Surabaya is generally sunny and warm, with average temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). Clear skies make it an appealing time for city exploring and excursions to East Java’s highlands, with relatively low rainfall and bright evenings.

Rainy season (musim hujan, November to April, shoulder season)
The rainy season brings short, often intense showers, usually in the afternoon or evening, with temperatures around 27–31°C (81–88°F). Between showers, you can enjoy greener city parks and quieter attractions, while indoor malls and museums provide comfortable options at any time of day.

Transitional months (around April and November, low season)
In the transitional months, weather patterns can shift from wetter to drier or vice versa, with temperatures near 28–31°C (82–88°F). These periods can offer a mix of sunny days and occasional rain, and you may find a calmer atmosphere at popular city sights and nearby viewpoints.

Frequently Asked Questions