Flights from Paris (CDG) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city, known for its busy port, heritage architecture, and leafy neighbourhoods. You will find a dynamic mix of modern business districts, historic quarters, and waterfront views that give the city a distinctive, energetic feel.

What to expect
The city blends broad avenues, lively shopping streets, and traditional kampung areas, with striking landmarks such as the Heroes Monument and the Suramadu Bridge. You can expect warm hospitality, a warm tropical climate, and a pace of life that combines urban buzz with relaxed, everyday routines.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is an excellent starting point for exploring East Java, from Mount Bromo to the coastal town of Malang. With good transport links, varied accommodation, and bustling dining districts, it works well for both short city stays and longer journeys across the region.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Explore a beautifully preserved colonial-era complex with galleries, a museum, and a glimpse into Surabaya's industrial heritage.

Tunjungan Street

Stroll along one of Surabaya's most historic streets, lined with shops, heritage buildings, and vibrant intersections.

Taman Bungkul

Relax in this popular city park, where locals gather for evening walks, casual performances, and open-air activities.

Suramadu Bridge Viewpoint

Take in panoramic views of the Suramadu Bridge, especially atmospheric around sunset and after dark when it is illuminated.

Arab Quarter (Kampung Arab)

Wander through narrow lanes filled with historic shophouses, traditional goods, and a distinctly old-world atmosphere.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Visit a real submarine turned museum on the riverside, offering an insight into Indonesian maritime history.

Old City (Kota Tua)

Discover colonial-era warehouses and offices gradually being revived with cafes, galleries, and creative businesses.

Kenjeran Park and Beach

Head to the coast for sea views, breezy promenades, and family-friendly recreational areas.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to move between districts in Surabaya, complemented by city buses on key routes. For short hops, motorbike taxis can be a quick solution, while walking is enjoyable in parks and compact neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture
Much of daily life centres on neighbourhood streets, parks, and informal food spots where friends and families gather in the evenings. You will notice a strong sense of community, with local shops, small businesses, and traditional markets woven into the modern cityscape.

Where to unwind
Green spaces like Taman Bungkul and riverside promenades offer a welcome break from the busy streets, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Coastal areas such as Kenjeran provide sea breezes, open views, and a slower pace within reach of the city.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for rich, flavourful dishes such as soto, rawon, and sate, often enjoyed at humble stalls and casual eateries. Neighbourhoods around Tunjungan and many local markets are filled with vendors serving comforting meals from early morning until late at night.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres across the city house food courts and cafes where you can sample a variety of Indonesian regional dishes and international options in one place. Portions are often modestly sized, making it easy to try several flavours during a single meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special meal, head to high-floor restaurants, hotel venues, or places near the waterfront that frame Surabaya's skyline and harbour lights. These settings pair carefully prepared menus with wide city views for a memorable evening out.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya has several large malls that combine international fashion brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining, making them popular social spaces. These centres are convenient for shopping, meeting friends, and escaping the midday heat in air-conditioned comfort.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller streets around the old city, Tunjungan, and the Arab Quarter are good places to look for local textiles, household items, and everyday goods. You can explore stalls and small shops that reflect the city's trading heritage and creative community.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, malls stay lively with extended opening hours, while busy streets remain active with late shoppers and diners. Some outdoor areas take on a festive feel with lights and food stalls, and local transport makes it straightforward to reach these districts after dark.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, daytime temperatures average around 30–33°C (86–91°F) with lower rainfall and sunnier skies. This is a comfortable time for city sightseeing, outdoor walks, and excursions to nearby attractions in East Java.

Wet season (Musim Hujan, November to April, peak season)
The wet season brings short, intense showers, usually in the afternoon or evening, with temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). The city stays green and vibrant, and rain often clears quickly, allowing you to continue exploring with simple planning.

Transitional months (around April and November, low season)
In the transitional months, you may experience a mix of dry days and occasional showers, with temperatures around 29–32°C (84–90°F). This period can feel a little quieter, offering a relaxed atmosphere while still providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city.

Frequently Asked Questions