Surabaya is a lively port city that blends heritage districts, modern business hubs, and waterfront views. You find characterful streets, broad boulevards, and easy access to East Java's dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Discover Surabaya
Discover Surabaya
Why visit Surabaya?
What to expect
You can explore colonial-era architecture, leafy residential neighbourhoods, and bustling commercial corridors in one compact urban area. Traffic is busy but relaxed by big-city standards, and locals are warm and welcoming to visitors.
Plan your trip
Surabaya works well as both a city break and a base for wider adventures around East Java, from mountain plateaus to coastal towns. It is also a convenient starting point for journeys towards Mount Bromo and other natural highlights.
Top sights in Surabaya
House of Sampoerna
Visit this preserved compound in the old city for a look at Surabaya's architectural heritage, a small museum, and views over the historic surroundings.
Suramadu Bridge
Drive or ride across this long bridge at sunset for wide views over the Madura Strait and the Surabaya skyline.
Tunjungan heritage area
Stroll past restored buildings, shopfronts, and monuments that reflect the city's early 20th century character around the Tunjungan corridor.
Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam)
Step inside a decommissioned submarine on the riverbank and get a feel for life below the surface while enjoying nearby riverside paths.
Kenjeran Park and coastline
Head out to Kenjeran for sea breezes, open spaces, and coastal views, especially in the late afternoon.
Cheng Hoo Mosque surroundings
See distinctive Chinese-influenced architecture around this landmark area and wander nearby streets for local everyday scenes.
Surabaya Zoo and city park belt
Combine a visit to the zoo with the surrounding green spaces and parks that give you a quieter side of the city.
Experience Surabaya's everyday rhythm
Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to move between districts, with buses and local commuter services covering key corridors. For a different perspective, try a short trip by becak in older areas, and walk the final few blocks where pavements are shaded and lively.
Local life & culture
Surabaya's pace is energetic yet unhurried, with residents gathering in neighbourhood parks, coffee spots, and along riverside promenades. Older quarters reveal layers of trading history, while new business districts show the city's modern, entrepreneurial side.
Where to unwind
Seek out waterfront promenades, leafy city parks, and hotel pool decks to escape the heat, with early mornings and late afternoons offering the softest light. On weekends, head to higher, breezier suburbs for cooler air and wider views across the city.
A taste of Surabaya
Street food & local specialties
Look for Surabaya staples such as rich meat stews, satay, and rice dishes from humble stalls and open-air eateries, especially around traditional markets and older residential streets.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and mixed-use complexes gather cafes, bakeries, and contemporary restaurants in one place, making it easy to sample everything from local comfort food to regional Asian favourites in one meal.
Signature & scenic dining
Elevated hotel restaurants, rooftop lounges, and river-facing venues pair city views with carefully presented menus, ideal for a relaxed evening or special occasion.
Retail therapy in Surabaya
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Surabaya's major malls combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining in cool, spacious interiors that double as popular meeting places for friends and families.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and older commercial streets offer textiles, everyday essentials, and small handicrafts, giving you a glimpse of how locals really shop while you pick up simple souvenirs.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and mall facades glow with bright signage and lively cafes, while occasional pop-up markets add a festive feel; taxis and ride-hailing services make these areas easy to reach and return from at night.
Best time to visit Surabaya
Dry season (peak season): From May to September, days are generally sunny and warm, with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). This is the most popular time for outdoor sightseeing and regional excursions. Transition months (shoulder season): April and October can bring a mix of sunshine and short showers, with temperatures around 27–31°C (81–88°F), offering fewer crowds while remaining comfortable. Wet season (low season): From November to March, Surabaya experiences more frequent rain and higher humidity, with temperatures of about 26–30°C (79–86°F); showers are often brief, leaving plenty of dry intervals for indoor attractions and city exploring.