Flights from Phnom Penh (KTI) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city and the vibrant heart of East Java, known for its energetic port, broad boulevards, and mix of colonial architecture and modern towers. You will find a city that feels dynamic yet welcoming, with a strong sense of local identity.

What to expect
The city blends busy business districts with leafy neighbourhoods and relaxed riverside areas. Historical quarters, a lively waterfront, and creative communities offer plenty to explore, while large malls and parks provide convenient places to spend your afternoons and evenings.

Plan your trip
Surabaya is a practical base for discovering East Java's natural wonders, from volcanic landscapes to coastal towns. With good onward connections by road, rail, and air, it works well as both a standalone city break and a gateway to the wider region.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Explore a well-preserved Dutch colonial complex turned museum, set within a quiet historic neighbourhood.

Suramadu National Bridge

Drive or ride across this long sea bridge linking Surabaya to Madura Island for wide views over the Madura Strait.

Tugu Pahlawan

Visit this landmark monument and surrounding grounds, dedicated to Surabaya's role in Indonesia's independence story.

Old Town (Kota Lama)

Wander streets lined with heritage buildings, riverside views, and photographic corners that showcase the city's past trading glory.

Kenjeran Park and Beach

Head to the coast for sea breezes, seaside promenades, and open spaces popular with local families at weekends.

Bungkul Park

Relax in one of Surabaya's most popular urban parks, with shady trees, walking paths, and a friendly evening atmosphere.

Ciputra Waterpark

Cool off at this large family-friendly waterpark with slides, pools, and play areas on the city's western side.

Galaxy Mall Surabaya

Combine shopping, dining, and entertainment at this modern mall, a favourite meeting point for local residents.

Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most efficient way to move between Surabaya's spread-out districts. In central areas, pavements and shaded streets make short walks comfortable, while local buses and minivans serve longer stretches for those who prefer public transport.

Local life & culture
You will sense Surabaya's entrepreneurial spirit in its busy streets, local cafes, and creative studios. Neighbourhoods mix long-time residents with students and professionals, creating a lively but down-to-earth atmosphere where street corners and parks quickly turn into informal meeting places.

Where to unwind
Surabaya offers many green spots where you can slow down, from central parks to quieter residential gardens. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to enjoy cooler temperatures, gentle light, and a relaxed pace along tree-lined streets and waterfront areas.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya is known for bold, flavourful dishes such as rawon, soto, and various noodle specialities, often found at roadside stalls and small eateries. Areas around traditional markets and busy intersections are especially rich in options for a quick, satisfying meal.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and mixed-use complexes throughout the city group together cafes, bakeries, and casual restaurants. Portions are often designed for sharing, so you can sample several different dishes in one sitting, from local favourites to regional Indonesian and Asian-inspired plates.

Signature & scenic dining
For something more refined, head to rooftop venues or hotel restaurants that overlook the skyline and main boulevards. These settings pair well-prepared dishes with city views, making them ideal for a relaxed evening or a special occasion in Surabaya.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya has a strong mall culture, with large centres offering international brands, cinemas, and family attractions under one roof. These spaces double as social hubs where you can shop, dine, and linger in air-conditioned comfort throughout the day.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller shopping streets are ideal for finding local textiles, handicrafts, and everyday goods. Districts around older parts of the city, as well as neighbourhood high streets, reveal small independent shops with distinctly East Javanese character.

Evening retail scene
After dark, illuminated storefronts and food-lined streets give Surabaya a lively evening mood. Many shopping centres stay open into the night, and informal stalls appear near parks and public spaces, all easily reached by taxi or ride-hailing services.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (musim kemarau, May to October, shoulder season)
During the dry season, Surabaya is typically hot and less humid, with average temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). Clear skies make it a comfortable time for exploring the city and planning trips to nearby natural attractions in East Java.

Wet season (musim hujan, November to April, peak season)
The wet season brings short, often intense showers, usually in the afternoon or evening, with temperatures around 27–31°C (81–88°F). The city remains busy, and the occasional rain offers a refreshing break from the heat while you enjoy indoor attractions and dining.

Transitional months (around April and November, low season)
In the weeks when seasons shift, you can expect a mix of sunshine and scattered showers, with temperatures near 28–31°C (82–88°F). These periods can feel a little quieter, giving you a relaxed experience while still enjoying warm conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions