Surabaya is a dynamic port city that blends historic architecture, leafy neighbourhoods, and a lively urban edge. You will find a gateway to East Java with a strong sense of local character.
Discover Surabaya
Discover Surabaya
Why visit Surabaya?
What to expect
Expect busy streets, grand colonial-era buildings, modern malls, and a relaxed café culture. The city feels authentic and lived-in, with friendly locals and easy access to nearby natural attractions.
Plan your trip
Use Surabaya as a base to explore East Java, from volcanic landscapes to coastal towns. Plan extra days to enjoy the city itself before or after wider adventures in Indonesia.
Top sights in Surabaya
House of Sampoerna
Explore a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial complex that now showcases Surabaya history, local industry, and a small art scene.
Tunjungan heritage district
Wander streets lined with early 20th-century buildings, including the famous Hotel Majapahit, and feel the citys layered past.
Suramadu Bridge
Cross this impressive bridge linking Java and Madura Island for broad views over the Madura Strait and the city skyline at a distance.
Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)
Step inside a decommissioned Soviet-built submarine on the riverbank and get a close look at life on board a naval vessel.
Kenjeran Park and beach area
Head to the Kenjeran coastal area for sea breezes, photo spots, and open spaces away from the busiest streets.
Cheng Hoo Mosque and surroundings
Admire distinctive Chinese-influenced architecture and then explore the surrounding streets for small shops and local life.
Bromo and Tengger highlands excursions
Use Surabaya as your starting point for day trips or overnight tours to Mount Bromo and the dramatic Tengger highlands.
Experience Surabayas everyday rhythm
Getting around
Move around Surabaya by metered taxi or ride-hailing services for comfort in the heat, and use local buses on main corridors. For the last mile, short walks or becak pedicabs in some neighbourhoods give you a slower look at the city.
Local life & culture
Surabaya has a proud, down-to-earth character, with busy commercial streets, family-run shops, and relaxed coffee houses. Neighbourhoods feel community-focused, and you will see daily life spilling out into courtyards, markets, and open spaces.
Where to unwind
Stroll along riverside paths, city parks, or hotel gardens in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures ease. Sunset and early evening are ideal for enjoying cooler air in open plazas and waterfront areas.
A taste of Surabaya
Street food & local specialties
Try East Javanese favourites such as rawon beef soup and lontong-based dishes from street stalls and humble eateries, especially around traditional markets and older neighbourhoods.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern cafés, food courts, and casual restaurants in Surabayas malls and business districts offer Indonesian classics alongside international choices, with portions that make it easy to share and sample several dishes.
Signature & scenic dining
Seek out rooftop venues and hotel restaurants with skyline or pool views for a more polished evening, combining city lights with thoughtfully presented Indonesian and international menus.
Retail therapy in Surabaya
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls in central Surabaya bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and family entertainment, and are popular places to meet friends in air-conditioned comfort.
Markets & local crafts
Browse traditional markets and smaller streets for batik textiles, local snacks, and handmade items, especially in older commercial areas and near heritage districts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, malls stay lively and some neighbourhood streets host small-scale night trading, with food and stalls under bright lights. Taxis and ride-hailing services make these evening areas easy to reach and return from.
Best time to visit Surabaya
Surabaya has a tropical climate with a clear wet and dry season. Peak season: June to September is the dry season, with temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F), lower humidity, and generally sunny days. Shoulder season: April to May and October to early November bring warmer temperatures around 28–33°C (82–91°F), occasional showers, and a mix of sun and clouds. Low season: late November to March is the wet season, with temperatures around 27–31°C (81–88°F), higher humidity, and frequent but often brief heavy showers, especially in the afternoon.