Explore Surabaya, Indonesia

Discover the vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and flavors of Indonesia’s bustling port city.

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Sunny in Surabaya

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Surabaya at a glance

Surabaya, Indonesia’s second‑largest city, is home to roughly three million residents. Set in a tropical monsoon climate, the city experiences hot, humid days with a rainy season from November to April and a drier period from May to September. Its blend of modern commerce, colonial heritage, and coastal setting makes it a distinctive gateway to East Java.

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Things to Do in Surabaya

Curated experiences led by local experts.

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10‑Day Sumatra Adventure: Mountains, Culture & Night Markets
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10‑Day Sumatra Adventure: Mountains, Culture & Night Markets

star 4.6

10 Days • Experience

From EUR1,016
5‑Day Komodo Kayak Adventure from Labuan Bajo
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5‑Day Komodo Kayak Adventure from Labuan Bajo

star 4.9

5 Days • Experience

From EUR1,507
Great Creatures: Orangutans & Komodo Dragons – 13‑Day Indonesian Explorer
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Great Creatures: Orangutans & Komodo Dragons – 13‑Day Indonesian Explorer

star 4.9

13 Days • Experience

From USD4,200
6-Day Komodo Kayak Insight from Bali
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6-Day Komodo Kayak Insight from Bali

star 5.0

6 Days • Experience

From USD1,304

Map View

Explore Surabaya on the map

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Surabaya

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-7.258, 112.752

Why travel to Surabaya?

Surabaya suits a range of trips: business travelers benefit from its major port and conference facilities; culture seekers can explore historic sites like the House of Sampoerna and Tugu Pahlawan; food lovers enjoy iconic dishes such as rawon and rujak cingur; families appreciate the waterfront promenade and nearby island excursions. The dry months of May‑September provide comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

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Surabaya View
Surabaya Landmark
Surabaya Street

Surabaya travel blogs

Stories and guides connected to Surabaya and the surrounding destination.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Surabaya?

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The most favorable period is the dry season, from May through September, when rainfall is limited and temperatures remain warm, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more comfortable.

What is the typical climate in Surabaya?

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Surabaya has a tropical monsoon climate with consistently high humidity. Average daily temperatures range between 26 °C and 32 °C. The rainy season runs from November to April, while May to October are drier.

How many people live in Surabaya?

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Surabaya’s population is estimated at around three million inhabitants, making it Indonesia’s second‑largest city and a major urban hub in East Java.

What visa requirements apply for travelers to Surabaya?

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Most foreign visitors can obtain a Visa on Arrival or use the visa‑free entry program, depending on nationality. The visa is typically valid for 30 days and may be extended at local immigration offices.

Which airport serves Surabaya and how can I reach the city center?

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Juanda International Airport (SUB) serves Surabaya with domestic and several international flights. From the airport, taxis, ride‑hailing services, and airport shuttles provide transport to the city center in about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

What are the must‑see attractions in Surabaya?

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Key sights include the historic House of Sampoerna museum, the Tugu Pahlawan monument, the Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam), Suramadu Bridge, and the vibrant Arab Quarter (Kampung Arab). These sites showcase the city’s colonial past, maritime heritage, and multicultural character.

Are there cultural experiences unique to Surabaya?

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Visitors can explore traditional Javanese arts at local galleries, attend the annual Surabaya International Batik Festival, and sample the city’s historic Chinatown, which blends Chinese and Indonesian traditions in architecture and cuisine.

What local dishes should I try in Surabaya?

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Surabaya is known for rawon (spiced beef soup), rujak cingur (fruit and vegetable salad with fermented shrimp paste), soto ayam (chicken broth), and sate kelapa (coconut‑marinated satay). Street stalls and family‑run warungs serve these dishes throughout the city.

Where can I find shopping opportunities in Surabaya?

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Major shopping areas include Tunjungan Plaza, Galaxy Mall, and the traditional Pasar Atum market. These venues offer a mix of international brands, local fashion, handicrafts, and fresh produce.

How can I get around Surabaya using public transport?

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The city operates a network of city buses (Trans Jabodetabek) and commuter rail lines that connect central districts with suburbs. Ride‑hailing apps such as Gojek and Grab are widely used for door‑to‑door travel, and taxis are readily available.