Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and diverse culture. For those considering things to do in Surabaya, exploring the House of Sampoerna, a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial-style building turned museum, and visiting the Heroes Monument, a tribute to the Indonesian independence struggle, are top activities.
The city’s bustling markets, such as the Pasar Atom, offer a lively atmosphere and a chance to experience local life, with vendors selling everything from traditional fabrics to local snacks. Nearby, the Surabaya Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world, provides a family-friendly attraction with a variety of animal species.
Beyond its urban attractions, Surabaya is also known for its culinary scene, with numerous warungs (food stalls) and restaurants serving traditional East Javanese dishes such as rawon and lontong balap. For those seeking the best places to visit in Indonesia, Surabaya’s blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and gastronomic adventures makes it a compelling destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Surabaya, Indonesia
1. House of Sampoerna
The House of Sampoerna is a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial-style compound that now serves as a museum, art gallery, and still-operational cigarette factory. Visitors can learn about the history of tobacco in Indonesia and the Sampoerna business dynasty.
Location: Krembangan, Surabaya, Indonesia. Easily accessible from the city center.
Scenic Spot: A well-preserved Dutch colonial-style building with a tobacco museum and an active cigarette factory.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for guided tours and a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the history-focused exhibits may be more engaging for adults.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Try to catch the live music performances that are held regularly in the café; they provide a lively backdrop to your visit.
2. Suramadu National Bridge
Spanning across the Madura Strait, the Suramadu Bridge is a spectacular sight and a significant feat of engineering connecting Surabaya to the island of Madura. It’s the longest bridge in Indonesia and offers stunning views, especially at night when it’s lit up.
Location: Connects Surabaya to Madura Island over the Madura Strait.
Scenic Spot: Indonesia’s longest bridge, best viewed at night when illuminated.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the best lighting and fewer traffic disruptions.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though it is primarily a drive-by attraction.
Price: Free to view, toll fee for vehicles approximately €1.30.
Travel Tip: For the best views and photos, visit at dusk when the lights turn on and the traffic is lighter.
3. Tugu Pahlawan (Heroes Monument)
The Heroes Monument is an iconic landmark of Surabaya, dedicated to the memory of the soldiers who died during the Battle of Surabaya on November 10, 1945. The towering monument stands as a symbol of the city’s spirit and resilience.
Location: Pabean Cantikan, Surabaya, Indonesia. Near the city center.
Scenic Spot: A towering monument honoring Indonesian heroes, with an underground museum.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid the heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may not find the museum engaging.
Price: €0.60 per person.
Travel Tip: Visit the accompanying museum to gain deeper insight into Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
4. Tunjungan Plaza
Tunjungan Plaza is one of the largest shopping malls in Indonesia, offering a modern shopping experience with a wide variety of stores, entertainment options, and eateries.
Location: Jalan Basuki Rahmat, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: One of Indonesia’s largest shopping malls, featuring international brands and local stores.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a more relaxed shopping experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with family-friendly entertainment options.
Price: Free to enter; shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Check for local events or shows held in the central atrium, as the mall often hosts cultural performances and expos.
5. Surabaya Zoo
As one of the oldest and largest zoos in Southeast Asia, Surabaya Zoo holds a variety of species from around the world. Despite some past controversies, efforts have been made to improve the conditions for the animals.
Location: Wonokromo, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: One of the oldest zoos in Southeast Asia, featuring diverse animal species.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings when the animals are most active.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially for families with children.
Price: €1.90 per person.
Travel Tip: Visit during the weekday mornings to avoid crowds and see the animals when they are most active.
6. Kebun Bibit Wonorejo
Kebun Bibit Wonorejo is a lush park and nursery offering a green escape within the city. It’s ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful place for a stroll or picnic.
Location: Rungkut, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A green park and plant nursery with walking paths, a lake, and picnic areas.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families, joggers, and nature lovers.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Bring along some snacks and a mat if you plan to picnic, as there are limited food stalls within the park.
7. Cheng Hoo Mosque
Cheng Hoo Mosque is unique for its Chinese architectural design, symbolizing the harmonious blend of Muslim and Chinese cultures in Indonesia. It stands out with its pagoda-like structure and is a place of worship as well as a cultural attraction.
Location: Genteng, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A unique mosque with Chinese-style architecture, symbolizing harmony between Muslim and Chinese cultures.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon, avoiding prayer times.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but visitors should dress modestly and respect religious customs.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Dress modestly when visiting, and if you’re non-Muslim, avoid prayer times for your tour.
8. Ciputra Waterpark
As the largest waterpark in Indonesia, Ciputra Waterpark offers fun for the whole family with a variety of water slides, pools, and play areas.
Location: Sambikerep, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: The largest water park in Indonesia, featuring slides, wave pools, and a lazy river.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with areas for children and thrill-seekers alike.
Price: €7.50 for adults, €5.70 for children.
Travel Tip: Go on a weekday to enjoy the park without the weekend crowds, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen for protection during the sunny days.
9. Pakuwon Food Festival
The Pakuwon Food Festival is an extensive outdoor dining complex where visitors can enjoy a vast selection of Indonesian and international cuisines. It’s a great place to indulge in local flavors and enjoy live entertainment.
Location: Pakuwon City, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: An outdoor food court offering a mix of local Indonesian dishes and international cuisines.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively atmosphere and best food selection.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for families and food lovers.
Price: Free to enter; food costs vary.
Travel Tip: Try to visit in the evening when the atmosphere is most vibrant and lively.
10. Mpu Tantular Museum
This museum showcases a wide array of Indonesian artifacts including prehistoric finds, traditional costumes, and cultural items that narrate the rich history of the archipelago.
Location: Sidoarjo, near Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A museum showcasing Javanese history, including ancient artifacts and traditional costumes.
Best Time to Visit: Midday when it’s cooler inside.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but more engaging for history enthusiasts.
Price: €0.60 per person.
Travel Tip: Hiring a guide can greatly enhance your experience, offering insights into the cultural significance of the exhibits.
11. Monkasel (Submarine Monument)
Monkasel, short for Monumen Kapal Selam, is a retired Russian submarine turned museum in the heart of Surabaya. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the inside of a real submarine and learn about its history and the life of submariners.
Location: Jalan Pemuda, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A decommissioned Russian submarine turned into an interactive museum.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for cooler temperatures inside the submarine.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the interior may feel cramped for some visitors.
Price: €1.30 per person.
Travel Tip: The interior can be quite cramped and hot, so visit earlier in the day when it’s cooler and less crowded.
12. Kenjeran Park
Kenjeran Park is an amusement park located on the eastern shore of Surabaya, offering a blend of recreational activities including a waterpark, karting track, and cultural attractions like the four-faced Buddha statue.
Location: Eastern Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A beachfront park with an amusement area, cultural landmarks, and scenic views.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for sunset views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with activities for both kids and adults.
Price: €1.90 per person.
Travel Tip: Visit during a weekday to enjoy the facilities without the weekend rush, and stay for the sunset views over the beach.
13. Sanggar Agung Temple
This impressive Chinese temple, located within Kenjeran Park, stands out with its colorful architecture and statues, including a giant statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. It’s not just a place of worship but also a cultural center for the Chinese-Indonesian community.
Location: Inside Kenjeran Park, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A striking Chinese temple with a massive statue of Guan Yin overlooking the sea.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for a peaceful experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though it is an active place of worship.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The temple is particularly festive during Chinese New Year celebrations; visiting during this time provides a deeper glimpse into local traditions.
14. Surabaya North Quay
Surabaya North Quay is an upscale area by the port offering dining and entertainment with a view of the sea and passing ships. It’s a perfect place to relax and watch the sunset.
Location: Near Tanjung Perak Port, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A waterfront area offering ocean views, restaurants, and occasional live performances.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the best views and cooler weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for a relaxing evening.
Price: Free to enter.
Travel Tip: Check out the schedule for live music or events that are frequently held here, adding to the ambiance of the quay.
15. Pasar Atom
Pasar Atom is a large market and shopping center known for its diverse range of goods from fabrics and clothing to electronics and traditional snacks. It’s a bustling place where locals and tourists alike come to shop and haggle.
Location: Near North Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A large traditional market offering clothes, electronics, and local snacks.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for the freshest products.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but it can be crowded.
Price: Free to enter; shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Be prepared to negotiate prices, and take the time to explore the different sections for the best deals.
16. Jembatan Merah
The “Red Bridge” is a historical landmark in Surabaya, which played a pivotal role during the Indonesian war of independence. The area around the bridge has now become a bustling commercial center.
Location: Old Town, Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A historic bridge significant to Indonesia’s independence movement.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid heat and traffic.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but best for those interested in history.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: To learn more about its history, consider finding a local guide who can provide insights into the bridge’s significance and the surrounding area.
17. Balai Pemuda
Balai Pemuda is a cultural building that hosts various arts and performance events. It’s a central hub for the city’s cultural and artistic expression, housed in a historic building.
Location: Central Surabaya, Indonesia.
Scenic Spot: A cultural center hosting art exhibitions, performances, and music events.
Best Time to Visit: Check the schedule for live performances.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially for those interested in arts and culture.
Price: Free, though event prices may vary.
Travel Tip: Look out for posters or online listings of upcoming events that might coincide with your visit, as attending a local performance can be a memorable experience.
Plan Your Perfect Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
Surabaya, Indonesia: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Surabaya: 6/10 – Surabaya offers several attractions for families with children, including the Surabaya Zoo, Atlantis Land Waterpark, and Ciputra Waterpark. The city also has several parks and playgrounds, though it lacks the variety and number of kid-centric activities found in larger cities.
Nightlife in Surabaya: 6/10 – Surabaya’s nightlife is moderate, with a selection of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city has a few popular nightlife areas such as G-Walk and Jalan Tunjungan, but it is generally quieter compared to cities like Jakarta or Bali.
Sport in Surabaya: 7/10 – Surabaya offers various sports facilities and activities, including football stadiums, tennis courts, and golf courses. The city also has several parks and open spaces for jogging and cycling. Water sports are available in nearby coastal areas, providing a range of options for sports enthusiasts.
Culture and Attractions in Surabaya: 7/10 – Surabaya has a rich cultural heritage with attractions such as the House of Sampoerna, Surabaya Submarine Monument, and the Heroes Monument. The city also hosts cultural festivals and traditional events. While it has notable historical sites, it lacks the density of cultural attractions found in other major Indonesian cities.
Gastronomy in Surabaya: 8/10 – The gastronomic scene in Surabaya is diverse and vibrant, with a mix of traditional Javanese cuisine and international options. Must-try dishes include Rujak Cingur, Soto Ayam, and Rawon. The city is also known for its street food, with numerous food markets and hawker centers offering delicious local fare.
Shopping in Surabaya: 7/10 – Surabaya offers a good shopping experience with several modern malls such as Tunjungan Plaza and Pakuwon Mall. Traditional markets like Pasar Atom and Pabean Market provide opportunities to buy local products and souvenirs. While it may not be as renowned as Jakarta or Bali for shopping, it still offers a variety of options.
Prices in Surabaya: 9/10 – Surabaya is very affordable, with low prices for accommodation, food, and transportation. It is an excellent destination for budget travelers, offering quality experiences at reasonable costs.
Average price for a hotel night: 30-55 $
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 2-4 $
Price of a beer: 1.5-2.5 $
Price of a coffee: 1.5-2.5 $
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Surabaya, Indonesia
For those looking to explore beyond Surabaya’s modern hustle, top day trips near Surabaya reveal East Java’s dramatic landscapes and rich culture. The majestic Mount Bromo and the ancient temples of Trowulan offer visitors a glimpse into the natural and historical wonders of Indonesia, each within reach for an unforgettable day out.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Surabaya accommodations offer a diverse array from luxurious high-rise hotels in the city center to charming guesthouses in quieter neighborhoods, ensuring every traveler finds the right spot to relax and recharge.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surabaya
https://www.getyourguide.com/surabaya-l348/
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
