SURABAYA AT A GLANCE
CITY
Surabaya
COUNTRY
Indonesia (Republik Indonesia)
TIMEZONE
UTC+7 (ICT/WIB)
TRAIN
BUS
TERRAIN
Large City, Coastal Tropics
WEATHER
75ºF - 93ºF Year-Round, Dry Season May - September, Wet Season October - April
AVERAGE MEAL COST
Rp40000 IDR / $2.42 USD
AVERAGE HOSTEL COST
Rp75000 IDR / $4.55 USD
LAST UPDATED
30/06/2024
LANDSCAPE
NOTABLE FEATURES
Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history and economic significance. It played a pivotal role in the country's struggle for independence, with notable landmarks like the Heroes Monument commemorating the Battle of Surabaya in 1945. As a major port city, Surabaya is an economic hub, contributing significantly to Indonesia's trade and industry. The city boasts modern shopping malls, a vibrant nightlife, and a growing number of skyscrapers, reflecting its urban development. Surabaya is also known for its culinary delights, including rujak cingur (a traditional salad with beef snout) and rawon (a black beef soup). The city's diverse cultural landscape is highlighted by various ethnic communities, including Javanese, Chinese, and Madurese, each contributing to its unique cultural fabric.
ACTIVITIES
Popular Activities
Visit the Heroes Monument: Explore this monument and museum dedicated to the Battle of Surabaya.
Tour the House of Sampoerna: Discover the history of Indonesia's famous cigarette company in this colonial-era building.
Walk along Tunjungan Street: Experience the historic street, known for its old Dutch buildings and modern shops.
Visit Surabaya Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in Indonesia, home to a variety of animals.
Explore the Submarine Monument: Tour a real Russian submarine and learn about Indonesia's naval history.
Stroll through Bungkul Park: Relax in this popular city park with gardens, fountains, and a skate park.
Shop at Tunjungan Plaza: Visit one of the largest shopping malls in Surabaya for a variety of retail and dining options.
See the Suramadu Bridge: Drive across the longest bridge in Indonesia, connecting Java and Madura Island.
Try Rawon: Sample this traditional black beef soup, a culinary specialty of Surabaya.
Visit the Ampel Mosque: Explore this historic mosque and its surrounding Arab Quarter, known for its vibrant market and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Underrated Destinations
Explore the Surabaya Museum of History and Culture: This lesser-known museum provides insights into Surabaya’s rich history and cultural heritage, featuring exhibits on traditional crafts, historical artifacts, and the city's development.
Visit the Cheng Hoo Mosque: An architectural gem in Surabaya, this mosque blends traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. It’s a unique spot that reflects the cultural diversity of the city.
Tour the Kenjeran Park: This large public park along the coast offers beautiful sunset views, a traditional amusement park, and a pleasant escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with less tourist traffic.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Tunjungan Street: This area is a key commercial district, featuring a mix of shopping malls, historical buildings, and modern restaurants. It's a central area for both shopping and cultural experiences.
Gubeng: A major business district with a mix of office buildings, hotels, and dining options. It’s also known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment venues.
Suramadu Bridge Area: Located near the bridge connecting Java and Madura, this area is notable for its modern infrastructure and scenic views of the bridge, as well as local markets and eateries.
Kampung Arab: A historic district with strong Arab influences, featuring traditional markets, mosques, and a unique cultural vibe that reflects Surabaya's diverse heritage.
Kenjeran: This coastal area is known for its parks, beaches, and seafood restaurants, providing a relaxing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.