What to do there?
What to do there?
Surabaya is filled with underrated gems and historical attractions. Known locally as the The City of Heroes, Surabaya plays an important role during Indonesia's fight for independence. With genuine taste of culture infused with history, Surabaya prides itself as one of the pioneers of Indonesian traditional dishes such as spicy meals, soups and curries.
For any type of traveller, Surabaya offers every chance to experience the best of Indonesia's culture, religion, history, nature and authentic cuisines with wide options for food hunting if you are an avid foodie! Spend some time sampling food in a city known for a clutch of signature dishes. G-Walk in CitraLand and Pasar Atum are the major places you can go to savor some of the best food in the city. Surabaya is known for gastronomic specialty of fish dishes and no one expertly serve the freshest fish than Layar Seafood. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants in Pakuwon City area for you to explore. Have a leisurely exploration around the city and take advantage of the free tour ride available when you visit the House of Sampoerna Cigarette Factory. The shuttle leaves from the factory at 9am every day except for Monday and will show you some of the main tourist sights around central Surabaya for free. Explore the Arab Quarter or popularly called Kampung Arab or Ampel can be likened to a North African Medina in its appearance and ambience. Characterized by labyrinth of narrow lanes, flanked by arched gateways designed with Arabic script, and multitude of stalls selling religious related paraphernalia such as prayer beads, dates, perfume and clothing.
One of the highlights you shouldn't miss if you visit Surabaya is hiking Mount Bromo which is still an active volcano. The smoldering mountain lies in the wider Bromo Tengger National Park. It is one of the best place where you can watch the sunrise at the peak of Mount Penanjakan as it shines majestically over the lip of the crater. Typical tours included from Surabaya to explore this park also includes a trip to Ijen Crater in the list. Alternatively, check out a local orchard and pick up some fresh fruits at Kusuma Agro Wisata where you can find guavas, apples and strawberries.
For recreational activities, make a splash at the Ciputra Waterpark if you need to cool off especially when you are travelling with children. The water park is part of the wider CitraLand entertainment complex and you can enjoy attractions like wave pools, slides, and smaller play areas for children. Many tourists are also surprised to learn that Surabaya is a city that is obsessed with golfing. The 18-hole Bukit Darmo Golf Course will give you a sense of belonging on a beautiful evening game, especially during business trips or a gathering with your loved ones.
For any type of traveller, Surabaya offers every chance to experience the best of Indonesia's culture, religion, history, nature and authentic cuisines with wide options for food hunting if you are an avid foodie! Spend some time sampling food in a city known for a clutch of signature dishes. G-Walk in CitraLand and Pasar Atum are the major places you can go to savor some of the best food in the city. Surabaya is known for gastronomic specialty of fish dishes and no one expertly serve the freshest fish than Layar Seafood. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants in Pakuwon City area for you to explore. Have a leisurely exploration around the city and take advantage of the free tour ride available when you visit the House of Sampoerna Cigarette Factory. The shuttle leaves from the factory at 9am every day except for Monday and will show you some of the main tourist sights around central Surabaya for free. Explore the Arab Quarter or popularly called Kampung Arab or Ampel can be likened to a North African Medina in its appearance and ambience. Characterized by labyrinth of narrow lanes, flanked by arched gateways designed with Arabic script, and multitude of stalls selling religious related paraphernalia such as prayer beads, dates, perfume and clothing.
One of the highlights you shouldn't miss if you visit Surabaya is hiking Mount Bromo which is still an active volcano. The smoldering mountain lies in the wider Bromo Tengger National Park. It is one of the best place where you can watch the sunrise at the peak of Mount Penanjakan as it shines majestically over the lip of the crater. Typical tours included from Surabaya to explore this park also includes a trip to Ijen Crater in the list. Alternatively, check out a local orchard and pick up some fresh fruits at Kusuma Agro Wisata where you can find guavas, apples and strawberries.
For recreational activities, make a splash at the Ciputra Waterpark if you need to cool off especially when you are travelling with children. The water park is part of the wider CitraLand entertainment complex and you can enjoy attractions like wave pools, slides, and smaller play areas for children. Many tourists are also surprised to learn that Surabaya is a city that is obsessed with golfing. The 18-hole Bukit Darmo Golf Course will give you a sense of belonging on a beautiful evening game, especially during business trips or a gathering with your loved ones.
What to see there?
What to see there?
The City of Heroes literally translates in Indonesian as Kota Pahlawan. Surabaya is closely linked to the birth of Indonesia and battle for independence. Don't be surprised when you see tens of statues and monuments commemorating independence scattered all over the city. There are plenty of heritage, cultural and historical sights to visit here in Surabaya, which means there will be a lot of sightseeing to do here too!
See the the Heroes Monument or Tugu Pahlawan which was built to commemorate the event of 10 November 1945 where many people died during the battle of Surabaya. Continue your exploration to Museum Ten November and learn more about the national history. Visit the Monkasel Submarine Monument, to see a submarine that was used by the Indonesian navy from 1962 till it was decommissioned in 1990. There is also a museum here set up for tourism purposes in Surabaya where you can tour this Soviet Union built machine which sits in the wider harbor and learn a great deal about history of Indonesia’s navy.
Surabaya is also a port and you can enjoy sweeping vistas across the water and also a promenade along the waterfront will provide a perfect spot to admire the famous Suramadu National Bridge that connects the city with neighboring Madura. The bridge's beauty best seen at night when it's most charming and colourful illumination is visible. Your trip to Surabaya is also incomplete without a visit to one of the top attractions here - House of Sampoerna. Check out the famous cigarette factory and learn how cloves are used for the cigarette or locally known as ‘kretek’ that was said to be medicinal. Beside the factory is an adjacent museum which casually hosts art exhibitions and also find a charming little coffee shop where you can sip few cups.
Enjoy an exciting cultural visit and hike the ruins of Majapahit Empire which used to be the biggest and most powerful empire in Southeast Asia during the 14th century. Things to explore here in Trowulan Archaeological Site include Wringin Lawang, Majapahit Archeological Museum as well as temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus. Stop by for an afternoon tea at Majapahit Hotel, a famous old landmark. The hotel built in 1910 with colonial style is surrounded by beautiful lush and gardens where you can enjoy classic high tea, sandwiches and other delectable food.
Check out bits of Islamic culture in the Arab quarters or Kampung Arab as it also houses the most popular mosque in Surabaya which is Masjid Ampel. With a huge space, the vast expanse of its marble floor are divided by dozens of wooden pillars, but there’s very little in the way of ornamentation. Admire the Chinese architecture applied in Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque which is one of the key religious sites for Chinese Indonesians in Surabaya who converted to Islam but still retain much of their heritage. Aside the vivid red, yellow, and green decorations, explore the traditional pagoda which is a blend of dragon and lion carvings at the back of the mosque.
Al-Akbar Mosque Surabaya is a huge prayer complex with brilliant Islamic architecture that is well worth a visit even for the views alone. The mosque actually has its own tower that has an internal elevator and you can ride all the way to the top of the tower which sits at 65 meters above the city. Further to the eastern part of Surabaya lies the highly evocative Kong Co Kong Tik Cun Ong Temple which redeems a blast of unfiltered culture. The primarily Buddhist complex with dashes of Confucius and Taoist influences spans two sides of a small gang, arched with temple gateways, concrete columns wrapped with dragon and latticed teak altars. The inside is usually filled with flickering candles, wafting incense and praying pilgrims.
Pick up some souvenirs at Roode Brug Soerabaia on Jalan Pucang Anom Timur. Just like an antique store mixed with a museum you are going to find a range of retro memorabilia such as vintage t-shirts, old fashioned British or Japanese army helmets, and even miniature models of Surabaya’s famous Russian submarine. Relax with your loved ones at Apsari Park or Taman Apsari which is famous for housing the ancient Joko Dolog Buddhist statue which was built to honor its former ruler, King Kertanegara. Walk around Chinatown and have a feel of a country in a city. This part of Surabaya got its name due to the large Chinese population likewise their businesses such as restaurants and shops in the area and you can still find a wealth of local architecture here that leads off the main road which is called Jalan Karet.
See the the Heroes Monument or Tugu Pahlawan which was built to commemorate the event of 10 November 1945 where many people died during the battle of Surabaya. Continue your exploration to Museum Ten November and learn more about the national history. Visit the Monkasel Submarine Monument, to see a submarine that was used by the Indonesian navy from 1962 till it was decommissioned in 1990. There is also a museum here set up for tourism purposes in Surabaya where you can tour this Soviet Union built machine which sits in the wider harbor and learn a great deal about history of Indonesia’s navy.
Surabaya is also a port and you can enjoy sweeping vistas across the water and also a promenade along the waterfront will provide a perfect spot to admire the famous Suramadu National Bridge that connects the city with neighboring Madura. The bridge's beauty best seen at night when it's most charming and colourful illumination is visible. Your trip to Surabaya is also incomplete without a visit to one of the top attractions here - House of Sampoerna. Check out the famous cigarette factory and learn how cloves are used for the cigarette or locally known as ‘kretek’ that was said to be medicinal. Beside the factory is an adjacent museum which casually hosts art exhibitions and also find a charming little coffee shop where you can sip few cups.
Enjoy an exciting cultural visit and hike the ruins of Majapahit Empire which used to be the biggest and most powerful empire in Southeast Asia during the 14th century. Things to explore here in Trowulan Archaeological Site include Wringin Lawang, Majapahit Archeological Museum as well as temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus. Stop by for an afternoon tea at Majapahit Hotel, a famous old landmark. The hotel built in 1910 with colonial style is surrounded by beautiful lush and gardens where you can enjoy classic high tea, sandwiches and other delectable food.
Check out bits of Islamic culture in the Arab quarters or Kampung Arab as it also houses the most popular mosque in Surabaya which is Masjid Ampel. With a huge space, the vast expanse of its marble floor are divided by dozens of wooden pillars, but there’s very little in the way of ornamentation. Admire the Chinese architecture applied in Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque which is one of the key religious sites for Chinese Indonesians in Surabaya who converted to Islam but still retain much of their heritage. Aside the vivid red, yellow, and green decorations, explore the traditional pagoda which is a blend of dragon and lion carvings at the back of the mosque.
Al-Akbar Mosque Surabaya is a huge prayer complex with brilliant Islamic architecture that is well worth a visit even for the views alone. The mosque actually has its own tower that has an internal elevator and you can ride all the way to the top of the tower which sits at 65 meters above the city. Further to the eastern part of Surabaya lies the highly evocative Kong Co Kong Tik Cun Ong Temple which redeems a blast of unfiltered culture. The primarily Buddhist complex with dashes of Confucius and Taoist influences spans two sides of a small gang, arched with temple gateways, concrete columns wrapped with dragon and latticed teak altars. The inside is usually filled with flickering candles, wafting incense and praying pilgrims.
Pick up some souvenirs at Roode Brug Soerabaia on Jalan Pucang Anom Timur. Just like an antique store mixed with a museum you are going to find a range of retro memorabilia such as vintage t-shirts, old fashioned British or Japanese army helmets, and even miniature models of Surabaya’s famous Russian submarine. Relax with your loved ones at Apsari Park or Taman Apsari which is famous for housing the ancient Joko Dolog Buddhist statue which was built to honor its former ruler, King Kertanegara. Walk around Chinatown and have a feel of a country in a city. This part of Surabaya got its name due to the large Chinese population likewise their businesses such as restaurants and shops in the area and you can still find a wealth of local architecture here that leads off the main road which is called Jalan Karet.
When is the best time to go there?
When is the best time to go there?
March - November
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Solo , Couple , Friends , Family , Group
What to eat?
What to eat?
Rawon, Lontong Balap, Rujak Cingur, Tahu Tek, Sate Klopo, Pecel Semanggi, Nasi Bebek, Mie Pecun
Where to eat?
Where to eat?
Arumanis Restaurant, Layar Seafood, Lontong Balap Pak Gendut, Mama Chicken, Lontong Kikil Kutai Jaya, Rawon Setan, Bungkul Park, Pakuwon Food Festival, Sate Klopo Ondomohen Bu Asih, Bebek Sinjay Kaza, Soto Ayam Lamongan Cak Har
Useful local terms
Useful local terms
- Selamat pagi: Good morning
- Selamat siang: Good afternoon
- Selamat sore: Good evening
- Selamat malam: Good night
- Apa kabar?: How are you?
- Kabar baik: I’m good
- Terima kasih: Thank you
- Sama sama: You are welcome
- Ya: Yes
- Tidak: No
- Ini berapa? : How much does this cost?
- Saya tidak mengerti : I don't understand
- Permisi: Excuse me
- Di mana kamar kecil? : Where is the toilet/washroom?
- Bagus!: Great!
- Hati-hati: Be careful
- Selamat jalan: Have a safe journey
- Ini apa?: What is this?
- Sampai jumpa lagi : See you again
- Tolong: Help
- Maaf: I am sorry
- Jam berapa?: What time is it?
- Saya tidak bisa bicara bahasa Indonesia : I can't speak Indonesian
- Bisa bicara bahasa Inggris? : You speak English?
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Coming in a group of 4 pax minimum is the best way to explore Surabaya on your own free schedule as you can rent a car or private vehicle at an affordable rate.
- Since Surabaya is predominantly Muslim, it is advisable to dress conservatively to respect the culture here.
- Though non-Muslims aren't welcomed to enter the mosque, the souk-style streets in Kampung Arab’s surrounding it make it a worthwhile visit.
- Calling people by crooking your finger is considered impolite.
- Do not walk a lonely street alone at night as it can be dangerous.
- Ignore taxi and other offers of transportation from unmarked ones.
- Tap water in Indonesia is usually not safe for drinking. It is best to purchase bottled water for drinking or cooking.
- Flooding is common in many areas of the city in Surabaya during the rainy season.
- Surabaya is also a transit city between Jakarta and Bali for travellers who are using ground transportations.
- Climbing over monuments or places of worship is considered highly disrespectful.
- Be extra cautious when you dine at any local ‘warungs’ (small stalls to dine by the roadside) as they can be dirty.
Start your East Java journey from Surabaya — explore quixotic little corners of interest and discover the hidden gems in Indonesia’s second largest city!
Start your East Java journey from Surabaya — explore quixotic little corners of interest and discover the hidden gems in Indonesia’s second largest city!
What to do there?
What to do there?
Surabaya is filled with underrated gems and historical attractions. Known locally as the The City of Heroes, Surabaya plays an important role during Indonesia's fight for independence. With genuine taste of culture infused with history, Surabaya prides itself as one of the pioneers of Indonesian traditional dishes such as spicy meals, soups and curries.
For any type of traveller, Surabaya offers every chance to experience the best of Indonesia's culture, religion, history, nature and authentic cuisines with wide options for food hunting if you are an avid foodie! Spend some time sampling food in a city known for a clutch of signature dishes. G-Walk in CitraLand and Pasar Atum are the major places you can go to savor some of the best food in the city. Surabaya is known for gastronomic specialty of fish dishes and no one expertly serve the freshest fish than Layar Seafood. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants in Pakuwon City area for you to explore. Have a leisurely exploration around the city and take advantage of the free tour ride available when you visit the House of Sampoerna Cigarette Factory. The shuttle leaves from the factory at 9am every day except for Monday and will show you some of the main tourist sights around central Surabaya for free. Explore the Arab Quarter or popularly called Kampung Arab or Ampel can be likened to a North African Medina in its appearance and ambience. Characterized by labyrinth of narrow lanes, flanked by arched gateways designed with Arabic script, and multitude of stalls selling religious related paraphernalia such as prayer beads, dates, perfume and clothing.
One of the highlights you shouldn't miss if you visit Surabaya is hiking Mount Bromo which is still an active volcano. The smoldering mountain lies in the wider Bromo Tengger National Park. It is one of the best place where you can watch the sunrise at the peak of Mount Penanjakan as it shines majestically over the lip of the crater. Typical tours included from Surabaya to explore this park also includes a trip to Ijen Crater in the list. Alternatively, check out a local orchard and pick up some fresh fruits at Kusuma Agro Wisata where you can find guavas, apples and strawberries.
For recreational activities, make a splash at the Ciputra Waterpark if you need to cool off especially when you are travelling with children. The water park is part of the wider CitraLand entertainment complex and you can enjoy attractions like wave pools, slides, and smaller play areas for children. Many tourists are also surprised to learn that Surabaya is a city that is obsessed with golfing. The 18-hole Bukit Darmo Golf Course will give you a sense of belonging on a beautiful evening game, especially during business trips or a gathering with your loved ones.
For any type of traveller, Surabaya offers every chance to experience the best of Indonesia's culture, religion, history, nature and authentic cuisines with wide options for food hunting if you are an avid foodie! Spend some time sampling food in a city known for a clutch of signature dishes. G-Walk in CitraLand and Pasar Atum are the major places you can go to savor some of the best food in the city. Surabaya is known for gastronomic specialty of fish dishes and no one expertly serve the freshest fish than Layar Seafood. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants in Pakuwon City area for you to explore. Have a leisurely exploration around the city and take advantage of the free tour ride available when you visit the House of Sampoerna Cigarette Factory. The shuttle leaves from the factory at 9am every day except for Monday and will show you some of the main tourist sights around central Surabaya for free. Explore the Arab Quarter or popularly called Kampung Arab or Ampel can be likened to a North African Medina in its appearance and ambience. Characterized by labyrinth of narrow lanes, flanked by arched gateways designed with Arabic script, and multitude of stalls selling religious related paraphernalia such as prayer beads, dates, perfume and clothing.
One of the highlights you shouldn't miss if you visit Surabaya is hiking Mount Bromo which is still an active volcano. The smoldering mountain lies in the wider Bromo Tengger National Park. It is one of the best place where you can watch the sunrise at the peak of Mount Penanjakan as it shines majestically over the lip of the crater. Typical tours included from Surabaya to explore this park also includes a trip to Ijen Crater in the list. Alternatively, check out a local orchard and pick up some fresh fruits at Kusuma Agro Wisata where you can find guavas, apples and strawberries.
For recreational activities, make a splash at the Ciputra Waterpark if you need to cool off especially when you are travelling with children. The water park is part of the wider CitraLand entertainment complex and you can enjoy attractions like wave pools, slides, and smaller play areas for children. Many tourists are also surprised to learn that Surabaya is a city that is obsessed with golfing. The 18-hole Bukit Darmo Golf Course will give you a sense of belonging on a beautiful evening game, especially during business trips or a gathering with your loved ones.
What to see there?
What to see there?
The City of Heroes literally translates in Indonesian as Kota Pahlawan. Surabaya is closely linked to the birth of Indonesia and battle for independence. Don't be surprised when you see tens of statues and monuments commemorating independence scattered all over the city. There are plenty of heritage, cultural and historical sights to visit here in Surabaya, which means there will be a lot of sightseeing to do here too!
See the the Heroes Monument or Tugu Pahlawan which was built to commemorate the event of 10 November 1945 where many people died during the battle of Surabaya. Continue your exploration to Museum Ten November and learn more about the national history. Visit the Monkasel Submarine Monument, to see a submarine that was used by the Indonesian navy from 1962 till it was decommissioned in 1990. There is also a museum here set up for tourism purposes in Surabaya where you can tour this Soviet Union built machine which sits in the wider harbor and learn a great deal about history of Indonesia’s navy.
Surabaya is also a port and you can enjoy sweeping vistas across the water and also a promenade along the waterfront will provide a perfect spot to admire the famous Suramadu National Bridge that connects the city with neighboring Madura. The bridge's beauty best seen at night when it's most charming and colourful illumination is visible. Your trip to Surabaya is also incomplete without a visit to one of the top attractions here - House of Sampoerna. Check out the famous cigarette factory and learn how cloves are used for the cigarette or locally known as ‘kretek’ that was said to be medicinal. Beside the factory is an adjacent museum which casually hosts art exhibitions and also find a charming little coffee shop where you can sip few cups.
Enjoy an exciting cultural visit and hike the ruins of Majapahit Empire which used to be the biggest and most powerful empire in Southeast Asia during the 14th century. Things to explore here in Trowulan Archaeological Site include Wringin Lawang, Majapahit Archeological Museum as well as temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus. Stop by for an afternoon tea at Majapahit Hotel, a famous old landmark. The hotel built in 1910 with colonial style is surrounded by beautiful lush and gardens where you can enjoy classic high tea, sandwiches and other delectable food.
Check out bits of Islamic culture in the Arab quarters or Kampung Arab as it also houses the most popular mosque in Surabaya which is Masjid Ampel. With a huge space, the vast expanse of its marble floor are divided by dozens of wooden pillars, but there’s very little in the way of ornamentation. Admire the Chinese architecture applied in Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque which is one of the key religious sites for Chinese Indonesians in Surabaya who converted to Islam but still retain much of their heritage. Aside the vivid red, yellow, and green decorations, explore the traditional pagoda which is a blend of dragon and lion carvings at the back of the mosque.
Al-Akbar Mosque Surabaya is a huge prayer complex with brilliant Islamic architecture that is well worth a visit even for the views alone. The mosque actually has its own tower that has an internal elevator and you can ride all the way to the top of the tower which sits at 65 meters above the city. Further to the eastern part of Surabaya lies the highly evocative Kong Co Kong Tik Cun Ong Temple which redeems a blast of unfiltered culture. The primarily Buddhist complex with dashes of Confucius and Taoist influences spans two sides of a small gang, arched with temple gateways, concrete columns wrapped with dragon and latticed teak altars. The inside is usually filled with flickering candles, wafting incense and praying pilgrims.
Pick up some souvenirs at Roode Brug Soerabaia on Jalan Pucang Anom Timur. Just like an antique store mixed with a museum you are going to find a range of retro memorabilia such as vintage t-shirts, old fashioned British or Japanese army helmets, and even miniature models of Surabaya’s famous Russian submarine. Relax with your loved ones at Apsari Park or Taman Apsari which is famous for housing the ancient Joko Dolog Buddhist statue which was built to honor its former ruler, King Kertanegara. Walk around Chinatown and have a feel of a country in a city. This part of Surabaya got its name due to the large Chinese population likewise their businesses such as restaurants and shops in the area and you can still find a wealth of local architecture here that leads off the main road which is called Jalan Karet.
See the the Heroes Monument or Tugu Pahlawan which was built to commemorate the event of 10 November 1945 where many people died during the battle of Surabaya. Continue your exploration to Museum Ten November and learn more about the national history. Visit the Monkasel Submarine Monument, to see a submarine that was used by the Indonesian navy from 1962 till it was decommissioned in 1990. There is also a museum here set up for tourism purposes in Surabaya where you can tour this Soviet Union built machine which sits in the wider harbor and learn a great deal about history of Indonesia’s navy.
Surabaya is also a port and you can enjoy sweeping vistas across the water and also a promenade along the waterfront will provide a perfect spot to admire the famous Suramadu National Bridge that connects the city with neighboring Madura. The bridge's beauty best seen at night when it's most charming and colourful illumination is visible. Your trip to Surabaya is also incomplete without a visit to one of the top attractions here - House of Sampoerna. Check out the famous cigarette factory and learn how cloves are used for the cigarette or locally known as ‘kretek’ that was said to be medicinal. Beside the factory is an adjacent museum which casually hosts art exhibitions and also find a charming little coffee shop where you can sip few cups.
Enjoy an exciting cultural visit and hike the ruins of Majapahit Empire which used to be the biggest and most powerful empire in Southeast Asia during the 14th century. Things to explore here in Trowulan Archaeological Site include Wringin Lawang, Majapahit Archeological Museum as well as temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus. Stop by for an afternoon tea at Majapahit Hotel, a famous old landmark. The hotel built in 1910 with colonial style is surrounded by beautiful lush and gardens where you can enjoy classic high tea, sandwiches and other delectable food.
Check out bits of Islamic culture in the Arab quarters or Kampung Arab as it also houses the most popular mosque in Surabaya which is Masjid Ampel. With a huge space, the vast expanse of its marble floor are divided by dozens of wooden pillars, but there’s very little in the way of ornamentation. Admire the Chinese architecture applied in Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque which is one of the key religious sites for Chinese Indonesians in Surabaya who converted to Islam but still retain much of their heritage. Aside the vivid red, yellow, and green decorations, explore the traditional pagoda which is a blend of dragon and lion carvings at the back of the mosque.
Al-Akbar Mosque Surabaya is a huge prayer complex with brilliant Islamic architecture that is well worth a visit even for the views alone. The mosque actually has its own tower that has an internal elevator and you can ride all the way to the top of the tower which sits at 65 meters above the city. Further to the eastern part of Surabaya lies the highly evocative Kong Co Kong Tik Cun Ong Temple which redeems a blast of unfiltered culture. The primarily Buddhist complex with dashes of Confucius and Taoist influences spans two sides of a small gang, arched with temple gateways, concrete columns wrapped with dragon and latticed teak altars. The inside is usually filled with flickering candles, wafting incense and praying pilgrims.
Pick up some souvenirs at Roode Brug Soerabaia on Jalan Pucang Anom Timur. Just like an antique store mixed with a museum you are going to find a range of retro memorabilia such as vintage t-shirts, old fashioned British or Japanese army helmets, and even miniature models of Surabaya’s famous Russian submarine. Relax with your loved ones at Apsari Park or Taman Apsari which is famous for housing the ancient Joko Dolog Buddhist statue which was built to honor its former ruler, King Kertanegara. Walk around Chinatown and have a feel of a country in a city. This part of Surabaya got its name due to the large Chinese population likewise their businesses such as restaurants and shops in the area and you can still find a wealth of local architecture here that leads off the main road which is called Jalan Karet.
When is the best time to go there?
When is the best time to go there?
March - November
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Solo , Couple , Friends , Family , Group
What to eat?
What to eat?
Rawon, Lontong Balap, Rujak Cingur, Tahu Tek, Sate Klopo, Pecel Semanggi, Nasi Bebek, Mie Pecun
Where to eat?
Where to eat?
Arumanis Restaurant, Layar Seafood, Lontong Balap Pak Gendut, Mama Chicken, Lontong Kikil Kutai Jaya, Rawon Setan, Bungkul Park, Pakuwon Food Festival, Sate Klopo Ondomohen Bu Asih, Bebek Sinjay Kaza, Soto Ayam Lamongan Cak Har
Useful local terms
Useful local terms
- Selamat pagi: Good morning
- Selamat siang: Good afternoon
- Selamat sore: Good evening
- Selamat malam: Good night
- Apa kabar?: How are you?
- Kabar baik: I’m good
- Terima kasih: Thank you
- Sama sama: You are welcome
- Ya: Yes
- Tidak: No
- Ini berapa? : How much does this cost?
- Saya tidak mengerti : I don't understand
- Permisi: Excuse me
- Di mana kamar kecil? : Where is the toilet/washroom?
- Bagus!: Great!
- Hati-hati: Be careful
- Selamat jalan: Have a safe journey
- Ini apa?: What is this?
- Sampai jumpa lagi : See you again
- Tolong: Help
- Maaf: I am sorry
- Jam berapa?: What time is it?
- Saya tidak bisa bicara bahasa Indonesia : I can't speak Indonesian
- Bisa bicara bahasa Inggris? : You speak English?
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Coming in a group of 4 pax minimum is the best way to explore Surabaya on your own free schedule as you can rent a car or private vehicle at an affordable rate.
- Since Surabaya is predominantly Muslim, it is advisable to dress conservatively to respect the culture here.
- Though non-Muslims aren't welcomed to enter the mosque, the souk-style streets in Kampung Arab’s surrounding it make it a worthwhile visit.
- Calling people by crooking your finger is considered impolite.
- Do not walk a lonely street alone at night as it can be dangerous.
- Ignore taxi and other offers of transportation from unmarked ones.
- Tap water in Indonesia is usually not safe for drinking. It is best to purchase bottled water for drinking or cooking.
- Flooding is common in many areas of the city in Surabaya during the rainy season.
- Surabaya is also a transit city between Jakarta and Bali for travellers who are using ground transportations.
- Climbing over monuments or places of worship is considered highly disrespectful.
- Be extra cautious when you dine at any local ‘warungs’ (small stalls to dine by the roadside) as they can be dirty.
