Flights from Amsterdam (AMS) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya blends historic charm, coastal scenery, and a dynamic urban core. You will find heritage buildings beside modern towers, lively streets, and friendly locals, giving the city an energetic yet welcoming atmosphere.

What to expect
The city centres on the Tunjungan and Embong Malang areas, where offices, hotels, and malls sit close together. Along the waterfront and older districts, you can explore preserved architecture, broad avenues, and a busy port that reflects Surabaya's role as a major gateway in eastern Indonesia.

Plan your trip
Surabaya works well as both a city-break and a base for wider adventures in East Java. From here you can connect to scenic highlands, coastal towns, and natural attractions, while still enjoying the convenience of a large, well-connected city.

Top sights in Surabaya

Heroes Monument

Visit this striking landmark and adjoining museum to learn about Surabaya's role in Indonesia's struggle for independence.

Suramadu Bridge

Drive across the long bridge linking Surabaya and Madura Island for panoramic views of the Madura Strait, especially around sunset.

House of Sampoerna

Explore a carefully preserved historic complex with galleries, period architecture, and a small museum in a quiet corner of the city.

Old Town (Kota Lama)

Stroll through Surabaya's Old Town to see colonial-era facades, wide streets, and glimpses of the city's trading past.

Tunjungan Street

Walk along this central boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and malls that showcase Surabaya's modern side.

Wonokromo and riverside paths

Enjoy a relaxed walk by landscaped riverbanks and local parks that offer a quieter perspective on the city.

Mangrove Ecotourism areas

Head to mangrove conservation zones on the outskirts of Surabaya for boardwalks, boat rides, and coastal views.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to move around Surabaya, especially for longer journeys between districts. In central areas, pavements and pedestrian bridges make short walks manageable, and hotel concierges can help you arrange trusted transport for day trips.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Surabaya revolves around neighbourhood streets, small cafes, and community parks. You will notice a busy working rhythm during the day, with a more relaxed atmosphere in the evenings as families and friends gather outdoors, especially around popular streets and waterfront areas.

Where to unwind
City parks, riverside promenades, and coastal viewpoints offer space to slow down and enjoy the breeze. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to be outside, when the light is softer and temperatures are more comfortable for walking or sitting outdoors.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for bold, flavourful dishes served in small eateries and simple venues across the city. Many neighbourhoods have evening food spots where you can sample snacks, rice dishes, and noodle favourites in a relaxed, everyday setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and newer lifestyle complexes offer a practical mix of local and international restaurants. Menus often feature shareable plates and modest portions, making it easy to try a variety of flavours over one meal with family or colleagues.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special night out, look for restaurants in upper floors of city hotels or towers that overlook Surabaya's skyline. You can enjoy carefully prepared dishes while watching the city lights stretch towards the coast, creating a memorable backdrop for your meal.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya is known for its large malls, which bring together international labels, local brands, cinemas, and family entertainment. These air-conditioned centres act as social spaces where you can shop, dine, and relax throughout the day.

Markets & local crafts
Beyond the malls, smaller markets and neighbourhood streets are good for finding everyday items and simple handmade goods. Districts close to the city centre often combine traditional stalls with newer boutiques, giving you a varied and informal shopping experience.

Evening retail scene
Many malls and shopping streets stay lively into the evening, when cooler temperatures make browsing more pleasant. Illuminated facades, late-opening cafes, and convenient public and private transport options make it easy to visit different areas after dark.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, Surabaya is generally sunny with low rainfall. Average temperatures sit around 27–32°C (81–90°F), and humidity feels more manageable. Clear days suit city walks, rooftop views, and excursions to nearby coastal or highland areas.

Transitional months (April and November, shoulder season)
April and November bridge the wetter and drier parts of the year, with occasional showers alongside brighter spells. Temperatures hover around 27–31°C (81–88°F). These months can feel a little quieter, with mixed weather that still allows for sightseeing and indoor activities.

Rainy season (Musim Hujan, December to March, peak season)
The rainy season brings warm temperatures, typically 26–30°C (79–86°F), and short, intense showers often in the afternoon or evening. The city remains very active, and you can comfortably focus on museums, malls, and dining, enjoying clearer intervals for short outdoor walks.

Frequently Asked Questions