Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Surabaya (SUB)

About Surabaya

Discover Surabaya

Why visit Surabaya?
Surabaya is a bustling port city on the northeastern coast of Java, known for its dynamic urban energy, heritage architecture, and access to dramatic volcanic landscapes. You will find a mix of historic quarters, modern business districts, and waterfront promenades.

What to expect
The city spreads along wide boulevards and lively neighbourhoods, from the colonial buildings of the old town to contemporary malls and creative spaces. Its harbour, riverside areas, and growing café culture give you plenty of options to pause between sightseeing and business meetings.

Plan your trip
Surabaya works well as both a standalone city break and a base for exploring East Java. From here, you can plan trips to Mount Bromo, coastal towns, and other Javanese cities, using the city’s strong transport links and accommodation options as a practical starting point.

Top sights in Surabaya

House of Sampoerna

Explore a beautifully preserved historic compound with a small museum, gallery spaces, and a café in a distinctive Dutch colonial building.

Suramadu Bridge

Take in wide views of the Madura Strait as you cross this impressive bridge linking Surabaya to Madura Island, especially scenic at night.

Tunjungan area

Stroll this central district to see restored heritage façades, modern shopping centres, and some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)

Step inside a real submarine set on the riverbank and learn about Indonesia’s maritime history in an unusual city-centre attraction.

Old Town (Kota Lama)

Wander past atmospheric warehouses, former trading houses, and riverside streets that hint at Surabaya’s past as a major colonial port.

Kenjeran Park and beach area

Head to the coast for sea breezes, coastal viewpoints, and recreational spaces that are popular with local families and visitors alike.

Bungkul Park

Join locals in this green urban park, a favourite spot for walking, relaxing, and enjoying open-air events in the cooler hours of the day.

Experience Surabaya’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient ways to move between central districts, while city buses and shared vans cover longer routes. For short hops, walking along the main boulevards and around parks is pleasant in the early morning and late afternoon.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Surabaya is shaped by busy markets, small independent shops, and a growing network of creative spaces and cafés. You will notice a strong sense of local pride in neighbourhoods where street art, community events, and live music bring residents together.

Where to unwind
Surabaya offers several green spaces and waterfront areas where you can slow the pace of your day. Parks, promenades, and seaside zones are most enjoyable around sunrise and after sunset, when temperatures ease and the city’s skyline begins to light up.

A taste of Surabaya

Street food & local specialties
Surabaya’s food stalls and small eateries are known for bold flavours and generous portions. Around markets, side streets, and simple canteens, you can sample local noodle dishes, rice plates, and snacks that reflect the wider culinary traditions of East Java.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and newer commercial districts bring together relaxed cafés, international chains, and local restaurants under one roof. Menus are varied, with portions that make it easy to try several dishes to share, whether you are grabbing a quick lunch or meeting friends after work.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for venues with rooftop views, river outlooks, or settings inside historic buildings. These restaurants often combine Javanese flavours with wider Asian or international influences, creating a sense of occasion for business dinners and special evenings.

Retail therapy in Surabaya

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya has several large malls that bring together international fashion brands, local designers, cinemas, and family entertainment. They serve as social meeting points, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy air-conditioned comfort throughout the day.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller shopping streets are ideal for discovering everyday goods and regionally made items. In older districts and around the city centre, you can look for textiles, accessories, and homeware that reflect local craftsmanship and contemporary Indonesian style.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and mall façades are lit up, creating a lively evening atmosphere. Some markets and smaller stalls trade into the night, pairing browsing with street snacks and people-watching, and you can usually reach these areas easily by taxi or ride-hailing service.

Best time to visit Surabaya

Dry season (musim kemarau, May to October, peak season)
During the dry season, days are generally sunny and warm, with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). Humidity is lower, making it comfortable for city exploring and day trips to nearby highlands.

Transition months (March to April, November, shoulder season)
The months on either side of the main seasons bring a mix of sunshine and brief showers, with averages around 27–31°C (81–88°F). This period can feel a little quieter, making it pleasant for sightseeing and enjoying the city’s parks and waterfront areas.

Rainy season (musim hujan, December to February, low season)
In the rainy season, you can expect short, often intense showers, usually in the afternoon or evening, while temperatures hover around 26–30°C (79–86°F). It remains a good time for indoor attractions, shopping, and dining, with plenty of dry intervals during the day.

Frequently Asked Questions