Flights from Europe to Surabaya (SUB)

Discover Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is Indonesia's vibrant port city on the edge of Java, known for its maritime heritage, broad boulevards, and lively neighbourhoods. You will find a mix of historic quarters, modern malls, and a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere.

What to expect
Expect a warm tropical climate, busy streets, and a city that feels authentic and lived-in rather than polished. From the old Arab Quarter and Chinatown to newer business districts and waterfront areas, Surabaya gives you a real sense of contemporary Indonesian urban life.

Plan your trip
Many travellers use Surabaya as a base for exploring East Java, from volcanic landscapes to coastal towns. With strong transport links to nearby islands and cities, it works well as both a standalone city break and a gateway to wider adventures.

Top sights in Surabaya

Suramadu National Bridge

Drive or ride across this long bridge linking Java and Madura Island for sweeping views over the Madura Strait.

House of Sampoerna

Step into a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial complex that now serves as a museum, gallery, and cultural space.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Explore a decommissioned Russian-built submarine on the riverfront and learn about Indonesia's naval history.

Old Town and Chinatown

Wander past shophouses, temples, and trading streets that reflect Surabaya's long history as a bustling port.

Tunjungan Street

Stroll this central avenue lined with malls, historic buildings, and cafés that light up in the evening.

Kenjeran Park and coastal area

Head to the coast for sea breezes, family-friendly recreation, and views over the Java Sea.

Madura Island day trip

Cross the Suramadu Bridge to discover quieter villages, coastal scenery, and a different pace of life.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Getting around Surabaya is easiest by metered taxi, ride-hailing services, or local buses for main corridors. For short hops in busy areas, motorcycle taxis and on-foot exploring let you dip into side streets and small shops.

Local life & culture
You will feel local life in Surabaya's neighbourhood markets, riverside promenades, and busy food streets at dusk. Historic quarters blend with modern developments, and you will notice a strong sense of community in parks, public squares, and around schools and campuses.

Where to unwind
When you need a break, look for city parks, waterfront promenades, and hotel pools that offer a pause from the heat. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times for outdoor walks, when the light softens and the city slows slightly.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for bold, savoury flavours, from noodle dishes to comforting rice plates and hearty soups. Many of the most memorable bites come from simple stalls and casual eateries clustered around markets and residential streets.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Air-conditioned malls and newer lifestyle complexes gather cafés, bakeries, and relaxed restaurants in one place. Menus often mix Indonesian and international favourites, with small plates and shared portions that make it easy to try several dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, you can book hotel restaurants and rooftop venues that look over the city skyline. Views are most atmospheric at sunset and into the night, when Surabaya's lights create a soft glow above the streets.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya's large shopping centres combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining under one roof. They are popular gathering points where you can shop, eat, and cool down during the warmest hours of the day.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and traditional shopping streets are ideal for finding textiles, small souvenirs, and everyday items. Areas around the old town and older neighbourhoods reveal family-run shops and stalls that give shopping a more personal feel.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, malls stay lively and some streets become brighter with shopfront lights and food stalls. It is easy to move between these areas by taxi or ride-hailing service, so you can comfortably explore after dark.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (peak season)
From June to September, Surabaya is generally drier and slightly less humid, with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). This is a popular time to visit, especially if you plan side trips to the surrounding region.

Transition months (shoulder season)
April to May and October to early November bring warmer days, some humidity, and occasional showers, with temperatures around 28–33°C (82–91°F). Crowds are lighter, and brief rain is usually followed by clear skies.

Rainy season (low season)
From mid November to March, you can expect more frequent rain, often in short, intense bursts, with temperatures around 26–31°C (79–88°F). You will find greener landscapes and quieter attractions, as long as you are prepared for humid conditions and wet afternoons.

Frequently Asked Questions