Surabaya in Indonesia: all about the city, what to see and where to stay

Surabaya, a lively city on the north-eastern coast of the island of Java, which holds the title of the capital of East Java province. It is often called the "city of heroes" for its significant role in Indonesia's struggle for independence. Surabaya combines rich history, modern culture and the beauty of nature. A charming city adorned with colonial-era architecture, noisy markets and modern skyscrapers, it offers a harmonious combination of traditions and progress.

General information

• Where it is located: East Java province, Indonesia.
• Area: 374 square kilometers.
• Population: 2.87 million.
• Languages: Indonesian and the local dialect of the Javanese language.
• Religion: more than 90% of the population are Muslims.

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How to get to Surabaya

Surabaya is a city with good transport connections, so it is easy to get here both from domestic and international points.

By air. The main gateway to Surabaya is Juanda International Airport, located 12 kilometers from the city. There are two terminals at the airport, between which a free shuttle bus runs.

Airlines offer domestic and international flights connecting Surabaya with major cities around the world. These include: Garuda Indonesia, Indonesia Airasia, Lion Air, Wings Air, Sriwijaya Air, Nam Air, Citilink Indonesia, Batik Air, Susi Air, Trigana Air Services, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Jet Star.

By water. In Surabaya there is Tanjung Perak - the second busiest seaport in Indonesia, where passenger ships arrive from a large number of cities, in particular from Denpasar, Jayapura and Sorong.

By train. There are three main railway stations - Surabaya Kota, Surabaya Pasar Turi, and Surabaya Gubeng. The national railway operator Kereta Api Indonesia operates regular services from Jakarta and other cities.

By bus. Intercity buses connect Surabaya with various destinations on Java and beyond.

As for moving around the city, Surabaya has a fairly well-developed public transport system, including buses, minibuses, taxis, motorized and bicycle rickshaws.

Photo by Puji Nugroho on Unsplash

History of Surabaya

According to historical data, settlements on the territory of Surabaya already existed in the 10th century. Over time the city flourished as a major trading port thanks to its strategic location in the delta of the Brantas River - the longest in East Java.

In the 17th century the city was colonized by the Dutch, turning it into a major center of trade, economy and industry. By the way, many buildings from the colonial era have survived to this day.

Surabaya played a key role in Indonesia's struggle for independence. The city became the site of the notorious "battle for Surabaya" in 1945, during which Indonesians stood for independence and fought against British and Dutch troops.

After gaining independence, Surabaya turned into a major center of industry and trade, where, in particular, many multinational companies are based. Today it is the second most important city in Indonesia, after Jakarta. Surabaya has a thriving economy and modern infrastructure, as well as the status of one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the country.

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What to see in Surabaya

The city offers many impressions and fascinating locations for all categories of travelers: from museums and golf clubs to zoos and children's entertainment centers.

Architecture of Surabaya

Get acquainted with the architectural heritage of Surabaya - from majestic colonial-era buildings, such as Surabaya City Hall, surrounded by a well-kept park, and the Red Bridge (Jembatan Merah), to the modern building of Saint Mary's Catholic Church and the Masjid Al Akbar Surabaya mosque, one of the largest in Indonesia.

Historical attractions in Surabaya

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city by visiting monuments and museums.

• Tugu Pahlawan Heroes Monument and the "Museum 10 November" (Museum Sepuluh November) - this is a reminder of the struggle for independence. The museum presents collections of photographs, weapons, artifacts and exhibits, as well as dioramas telling the history of the city.
• Educational Museum preserves evidence of the pre-literate and colonial periods, as well as the period of independence.
• Sports Museum (Museum Olahraga) invites you to admire a collection of sports items. Hundreds of exhibits are divided into three types: historical (collections obtained during excavations), heraldic (signs of awards and merits, titles, symbols or logos), and technological.
• Blockbuster Museum (Museum Blockbuster) keeps about 3 thousand exhibits, including figures of heroes from legendary blockbusters, movie props and dioramas.

Photo by Ferdinand F Eman on Pexels

Kenjeran Beach amusement park

The park is a coastal tourist attraction in the north of the city. From here you can enjoy the charming beauty of the beach against the background of the Suramadu Bridge. The location does not yet have a large number of attractions, but there is a children's playground, gazebos, souvenir shops and food courts with a wide selection of local dishes. Boat excursions are held.

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Walk through the mangrove forests

In East Surabaya there are several mangrove forests, a walk through which will be an excellent addition to your trip and will allow you to take beautiful photos, observe the inhabitants and learn everything about mangrove ecosystems.

• Wonorejo mangrove forest reserve (Mangrove Wonorejo), with an area of about 200 hectares, is home to many species of birds. Its beauty can be enjoyed during a walk or a boat trip.
• Gunung Anyar mangrove forest (Gunung Anyar Mangrove) - an area of about 25 hectares. There is a walking trail 630 meters long, boat excursions, an observation tower, and photo locations.
• Mangrove Medokan Sawah botanical garden occupies about 16 hectares and invites you to enjoy interesting photo locations made from mangrove roots and bamboo branches. Water tourism with a unique payment system, where visitors must buy 2 mangrove tree seeds from a farmer per person.

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Kapasan Dalam tourist village

The village was opened in 2020 in the Chinatown area of the old city. Decorated with traditional ornaments and murals, it offers an introduction to Chinese culture and food, as well as places for colorful photos.

"Surabaya" park

Taman Suroboyo - a large and well-kept park which first of all attracts attention with the 25-meter statue of Suro (a shark) and Boyo (a crocodile), which are connected with the legend of the origin of the city. In the middle part of the park there is an open space that can be used for roller skating. On the right side of the park there are shady plants and a playground for children. If you visit the park in the morning, you will be able to see a beautiful sunrise.

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Shopping in Surabaya

Surabaya can boast a large number of major modern shopping centers, including Tunjungan Plaza, Galaxy Mall, Hi-Tech Mall, Grand City Mall, Royal Plaza and others. The choice of goods is more than diverse, and you can walk around shopping centers in Surabaya for more than one day.

Trip to Bromo volcano

To enjoy nature, go on an excursion to the majestic active Bromo volcano, located 3-4 hours' drive from Surabaya. Such a trip can be organized independently or you can contact one of the many tour operators.

Depending on the program, the trip can take from 12 hours or more. Admire the breathtaking sunrise over the volcanic crater, explore nearby villages and waterfalls.

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Where to stay in Surabaya

The lively metropolis offers travelers many accommodation options: from modest guest houses costing a few dollars per night to representatives of famous chains such as Movenpick, JW Marriott, Sheraton, Hilton. At the same time, the city concentrates many wonderful mid-range hotels, for example:

• Hotel Santika Premiere Gubeng Surabaya - a multi-storey hotel located not far from Gubeng railway station and shopping centers. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a swimming pool and beautiful views of the surroundings.
• Bumi Surabaya City Resort. A 5-star urban business hotel near the center. Elegant rooms, a good restaurant with a wide range of dishes, a pool and a well-kept garden.
• Grand Swiss-Belhotel Darmo. A high-class hotel a few steps from the main shopping district of Surabaya. It offers 4 categories of rooms, good food, spa services and all opportunities for a full rest.
• Oakwood Hotel & Residence Surabaya. A 5-star hotel with rooms and apartments with a kitchen. The apartments are suitable for both short-term and long-term stays. Guests have at their disposal a restaurant, lounge, indoor pool and fitness center.

Oakwood Hotel & Residence Surabaya