Welcome to Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city and a pulsating metropolis where history, commerce, and Javanese culture collide with thrilling energy. Known as the 'City of Heroes' for its pivotal role in the nation's independence struggle, Surabaya is far more than a gateway to East Java; it's a dynamic destination in its own right. This sprawling port city on the northeastern coast of Java offers a compelling mix of colonial-era architecture, vast modern shopping complexes, poignant historical monuments, and a famously tenacious and friendly local population. As a major business and industrial hub, the city boasts a vast and varied accommodation scene, with 957 hotels catering to every taste and budget, from sleek international chains to charming boutique stays. Whether you're drawn by the call of history at the Heroes Monument, the retail therapy of its colossal malls, or the simple joy of exploring its vibrant, sometimes chaotic streets, Surabaya promises an authentic and unforgettable Indonesian urban adventure.
Surabaya's history is etched into its very streets. Founded as a major port of the Mataram Kingdom, it grew under Dutch colonial rule, leaving behind a legacy of European architectural gems in areas like the old city. The city's defining moment came in November 1945, when its citizens fiercely resisted Allied forces in a bloody battle that galvanized the nation's fight for independence, earning Surabaya its heroic moniker. Today, it is a bustling, modern economic powerhouse, yet it retains a distinct cultural identity rooted in Javanese traditions, evident in its dialect, arts, and cuisine. The city is famous for its shopping, with Tunjungan Plaza and Pakuwon Mall being among the largest in Southeast Asia. Key districts include the historic center around the Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan), the upscale commercial area of West Surabaya with its mega-malls, and the coastal Kenjeran area. Surabaya is also a city of contrasts, where gleaming skyscrapers overlook traditional markets and where the calm flow of the Kalimas River cuts through urban hustle.
The best time to visit Surabaya is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. These months offer plenty of sunshine, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like the Submarine Monument or strolling through city parks. The peak tourist season aligns with this period and Indonesian school holidays (June-July, December), so expect higher hotel rates and crowds. The wet season spans October to April, with the heaviest rains usually from December to February. While daily downpours can be intense but brief, humidity is high, and flooding can occasionally disrupt travel. Major events are worth planning around: Heroes' Day on November 10th features solemn ceremonies and reenactments at the Heroes Monument. The Surabaya Carnival is a vibrant cultural parade often held in June. Visiting during the shoulder months of April-May or September-October can offer a good balance of decent weather and fewer visitors.
Surabaya has a tropical monsoon climate with consistently high temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. Humidity is generally high, especially during the rainy months.
Sunny and hot with occasional brief showers. The most comfortable and popular time for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
Hot, humid, and rainy with frequent, often heavy afternoon thunderstorms. Flooding can occur in some areas.
Best for: indoor activities, mall shopping
Best for: indoor activities, mall shopping
Best for: indoor activities
Best for: sightseeing with umbrella
Best for: sightseeing, outdoor activities
Best for: sightseeing, outdoor activities
Best for: sightseeing, outdoor activities
Best for: sightseeing, outdoor activities
Best for: sightseeing, outdoor activities
Best for: sightseeing with umbrella
Best for: historical tours, indoor activities
Best for: indoor activities, mall shopping
Navigating Surabaya is an adventure in itself. The city lacks a metro system, so public transport relies on an extensive network of public buses and minibuses (angkot), which are very cheap but can be confusing for non-Indonesian speakers. For convenience, ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab are ubiquitous, affordable, and offer both car and motorbike taxi options, which are excellent for beating traffic. Traditional taxis are also available; insist on using the meter or agree on a price beforehand. For short distances in pedestrian-friendly areas like certain mall complexes or Tunjungan Street, walking is feasible. Biking is not commonly recommended for tourists due to heavy traffic. The city's Juanda International Airport (SUB) is about 15 km south of the center. The most cost-effective transfer is via airport train to Gubeng Station, while ride-hailing or official airport taxis offer door-to-door service for around $10-15. Overall, budget $5-15 per day for transport using ride-hailing services.
One of the largest zoos in Southeast Asia, featuring a diverse collection of exotic animals and interactive exhibits.
Iconic landmark commemorating the Battle of Surabaya, with a museum detailing Indonesia's independence struggle.
One of Surabaya's largest shopping malls, featuring a wide range of stores, cinemas, and restaurants.
A large integrated shopping, dining, and entertainment complex directly connected to the apartment.
Large shopping mall with entertainment and dining options.
Monument featuring a real Russian submarine that visitors can enter and explore.
Modern shopping and entertainment complex with a wide range of retail and dining options.
Large mall with extensive shopping, entertainment, and a variety of culinary choices.
Popular lifestyle center featuring restaurants, cafes, and regular live music events.
Coastal area known for its seafood restaurants, temples, and relaxed atmosphere.
A local market for fresh produce and goods.
A waterfront area with dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
The historic heart of the city, home to the Heroes Monument, colonial buildings, and government offices. It's dense, bustling, and full of character.
The modern, upscale commercial hub featuring mega-malls like Pakuwon Mall and Tunjungan Plaza, luxury hotels, and high-end residences.
A large area encompassing universities, industrial parks, and more residential neighborhoods. Home to Ciputra World Surabaya mall.
The port area and coastline, featuring Kenjeran Beach, the Submarine Monument, and fresh seafood eateries. More laid-back but less polished.
A major transportation hub with Gubeng Railway Station, numerous universities, and a mix of commercial and residential zones.
A modern integrated entertainment complex with an open-air plaza, restaurants, cafes, and a cinema. Popular for evening outings.
Surabaya's cuisine is a bold testament to East Javanese flavors, characterized by savory, sweet, and spicy notes. The city's signature dish is Rujak Cingur, a unique salad with boiled cow snout (cingur), tofu, tempe, and vegetables, all smothered in a thick, sweet, and spicy peanut-petis (shrimp paste) sauce. Soto Ayam Surabaya, a fragrant turmeric-based chicken soup, is a beloved comfort food. For seafood lovers, Kenjeran Beach is lined with warungs (simple eateries) serving incredibly fresh grilled fish and shellfish. Dining culture ranges from humble street-side tents to upscale restaurants. Must-try areas include the vibrant Genteng Night Market and the food court at Tunjungan Plaza. A hearty local meal can cost as little as $2-3 from a street vendor, while a mid-range restaurant meal runs $5-10 per person. Etiquette is generally relaxed; using your right hand to eat is customary, and it's polite to say 'selamat makan' (enjoy your meal) before digging in.
Iconic active volcano with breathtaking sunrise views over a sea of sand. A quintessential East Java experience.
Famous for its annual bull races (Karapan Sapi), unique culture, salt farming, and bridges connecting it to Surabaya.
Archaeological site of the great Hindu-Buddhist Majapahit Empire, featuring temple ruins and a museum.
A surreal and ongoing geological disaster where hot mud has submerged villages. A sobering and unique sight.
A charming cooler highland city known for its colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and apple plantations.
A popular cool-climate retreat near Malang, featuring fruit orchards, theme parks like Jawa Timur Park, and beautiful landscapes.
Surabaya is generally a safe city for travelers, with a low violent crime rate. However, petty crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur in crowded markets, buses, and tourist areas, so remain vigilant with your belongings. Common scams include taxi drivers refusing to use the meter or offering inflated tours; always use reputable ride-hailing apps or official taxi stands. Be cautious in quieter areas at night. Traffic is the biggest daily hazard; cross streets carefully. Drink only bottled or filtered water. Emergency numbers are 110 for police, 118 for ambulance, and 113 for fire. Keep a copy of your passport handy. Health-wise, ensure routine vaccinations are up to date and consider those for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Use mosquito repellent to prevent dengue fever.
Surabaya offers excellent value for money. A budget traveler can manage on $25-35 per day: stay in hostels or basic losmen ($10-15/night), eat at warungs and street stalls ($1-3 per meal), use angkot buses and ride-hailing bikes ($2-5), and visit free attractions like Heroes Monument. Mid-range travelers should budget $50-80 daily: comfortable hotel or Airbnb ($30-50/night), meals at nice local restaurants and cafes ($5-10 per meal), Grab cars for transport ($5-10), and paid entrance fees to sites like the Submarine Monument. A luxury daily budget of $120+ affords 4-5 star hotels ($70+), fine dining, private car hire, and spa treatments. Money-saving tips: Use Gojek/Grab for all transport, eat where locals eat, visit malls for free AC and window shopping, and stay slightly outside the main commercial center for better hotel rates.