Flights from Brussels (BRU) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Gateway to East Java

Surabaya is Indonesia's vibrant port city on the shores of the Java Sea, and the main gateway to the cultural and natural treasures of East Java. Its wide boulevards, busy harbour, and mix of modern high-rises and heritage districts give the city a distinctive energy that feels both urban and deeply rooted in local traditions.

You will find a city known for its friendly spirit, bustling local businesses, and thriving food culture. Traditional markets sit alongside contemporary malls, and historic neighbourhoods contrast with waterfront developments. Many travellers use Surabaya as a base to explore surrounding highlands and coasts, while still enjoying the convenience and comfort of a major Indonesian city.

From leafy parks and riverside promenades to creative hubs and cafes, Surabaya invites you to slow down and discover its many layers. Whether you are here for business, visiting family, or beginning a wider journey across Java, the city offers an authentic, welcoming introduction to Indonesia.

Top sights in Surabaya

Tugu Pahlawan

Visit this striking monument and surrounding grounds to learn about Surabaya's role in Indonesia's modern history.

House of Sampoerna

Explore a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial complex that now serves as a museum and cultural space with rotating exhibitions.

Suramadu Bridge

Drive across Indonesia's first longest cable-stayed bridge for sweeping views between Surabaya and Madura Island, especially atmospheric at dusk.

Kenjeran Park and Coast

Spend a relaxed afternoon by the sea with coastal views, playgrounds, and photo-worthy lookout points along the shore.

Arab Quarter and Ampel area

Wander through narrow streets lined with traditional shops, historic buildings, and colourful trading houses that reflect Surabaya's maritime past.

Experience Surabaya and East Java

Surabaya is a launching point for memorable journeys around East Java. Many visitors travel onwards to the highlands around Mount Bromo for sunrise views over a volcanic landscape, or to the cooler mountain towns near Malang for tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic drives. Day tours and multi-day excursions are widely available, allowing you to combine city comforts with outdoor exploration.

Within the city, you can join guided heritage walks that trace Surabaya's past through its colonial-era architecture, old port districts, and riverside warehouses. These tours offer insight into how the city grew as a trading hub and how different communities shaped its character. For a different perspective, evening cruises or riverside strolls show you the city lights reflecting on the water.

Families and leisure travellers will find plenty of modern attractions too, from well-equipped urban parks and interactive museums to indoor entertainment centres and aquariums. Whether you prefer an active itinerary or relaxed sightseeing with regular cafe stops, Surabaya offers a flexible mix of cultural and outdoor experiences.

A taste of Surabaya

Surabaya has a rich food culture influenced by Javanese, Chinese, and other Southeast Asian flavours. You will find everything from bustling street stalls and traditional warung-style eateries to contemporary restaurants and stylish rooftop venues. Many local specialities highlight bold spices, slow-cooked broths, and generous portions of rice or noodles.

Among the signature dishes to try are rawon, a deeply flavoured beef soup with dark, nutty notes, and rujak cingur, a vibrant salad that balances sweet, sour, and savoury tastes. You will also see satay skewers, fried snacks, and a wide variety of rice dishes at markets and small neighbourhood cafes. Freshly squeezed juices and iced drinks help you stay refreshed in the tropical climate.

In the newer business districts and shopping malls, you can enjoy cafes, bakeries, and international dining options that sit comfortably alongside local favourites. This mix makes it easy to sample traditional Surabaya flavours one meal and choose something familiar the next, especially if you are travelling with family or on a longer stay.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

As one of Indonesia's largest cities, Surabaya offers a wide range of shopping experiences. Modern malls house international brands, electronics, and lifestyle stores, as well as cinemas and extensive dining floors, making them convenient destinations for both shopping and relaxation. These centres are also popular evening and weekend hangouts for local residents.

For a more traditional experience, explore the city markets and older commercial streets, where you will find textiles, batik, handicrafts, and everyday household goods. These areas offer a chance to see local life up close and pick up distinctive souvenirs, from patterned fabrics to locally made accessories.

If you are interested in design and locally produced items, seek out smaller boutiques and creative hubs that showcase contemporary takes on Indonesian craftsmanship. Many of these spaces combine retail with cafes or small galleries, making them pleasant places to spend a few unhurried hours.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (Musim Kemarau), typically from May to September, brings warm, relatively low-rainfall days with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). Clearer skies make it appealing for day trips to highland areas and coastal outings, and it is generally considered a peak season.

Shoulder months around the turn of the seasons, usually April and October, offer a mix of sunny spells and occasional showers, with temperatures near 27–31°C (81–88°F). This shoulder season can feel slightly less humid than the wettest months, creating comfortable conditions for urban sightseeing and evening walks.

Rainy season (Musim Hujan) runs roughly from November to March, with higher humidity, frequent showers, and temperatures of about 26–30°C (79–86°F). Rain often falls in short, intense bursts, leaving time for indoor attractions, shopping, and Surabaya's dynamic food scene, making this a low season that still rewards visitors.

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