The 14 BEST things to do in Surabaya, Indonesia

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Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Surabaya, Indonesia!

Welcome to Surabaya, Indonesia – the city of heroes and the gateway to the beautiful island of Java! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newbie to the world of adventure, Surabaya has something for everyone. From exploring the vibrant culture and history of the city, to enjoying the delicious local cuisine and beautiful natural surroundings, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this amazing destination.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Cropland duiring Night Time
Photo by Aron Visuals
Surabaya has a unique atmosphere that is unlike any other city in Indonesia. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the city is bustling with energy and activity. The streets are full of colorful markets, delicious food stalls, and lively street performances, and the nightlife is equally vibrant. Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the local culture, or party the night away, Surabaya has something for everyone.

Weather throughout the year

Photo of a Man Sitting Under the Tree
Photo by Admiral General M. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ GodShepherdly 33277089*
Surabaya has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. The rainy season runs from November to April, while the dry season runs from May to October. While the weather can be a bit unpredictable at times, the overall climate is warm and sunny, making it a great destination for travelers looking to escape the cold and enjoy some sunshine.

Why Surabaya, Indonesia is the best place to be

Silhouette of Mountain Under Cloudy Sky during Sunset in Surabaya, Indonesia.
Photo by Aron Visuals
There are so many reasons why Surabaya is the best place to be! The city is rich in history and culture, with a fascinating blend of traditional Javanese and modern influences. The local cuisine is also a major draw, with a wide variety of delicious dishes to try, including spicy sambal, sweet martabak, and savory nasi goreng. And of course, the natural beauty of the surrounding region is breathtaking, with beautiful beaches, forests, and mountains just a short drive away.

Cost of Travel

Silhouette of person against sunset sky in Surabaya, Indonesia.
Photo by Ida Rizkha
Surabaya is an affordable destination for travelers, with a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. There are plenty of cheap guesthouses and hostels for backpackers, as well as more luxurious hotels for those looking for a bit of extra comfort. The local currency is the Indonesian rupiah, and prices for food and other necessities are generally quite reasonable.

Top 14 best things to do in Surabaya, Indonesia

Person Surfing on the Sea in Surabaya, Indonesia.
Photo by Nick Wehrli
  1. Visit the amazing Joko Dolog Monument – a towering statue of a Javanese warrior that is a symbol of Surabaya’s proud history and culture.
  2. Explore the vibrant markets of Pasar Atom and Pasar Besar, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local crafts, to souvenirs and unique clothing.
  3. Take a stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens of Taman Bungkul, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  4. Savor the delicious local cuisine, including spicy sambal, sweet martabak, and savory nasi goreng.
  5. Relax on the beautiful beaches of the surrounding region, such as G-Land and Bangsring Bewah.
  6. Visit the Surabaya Zoo, where you can see a wide variety of exotic animals from all over the world.
  7. Explore the historic sites of the city, such as the Kwan Sing Bio Temple and the Surabaya History Museum.
  8. Top 14 best things to do in Surabaya, Indonesia (continued)

    Canoe on Body of Water With Pagoda Background in Surabaya, Indonesia.
    Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi
    1. Take a trip to the beautiful Mount Bromo, an active volcano located in the surrounding region that offers stunning views and great hiking opportunities.
    2. Check out the amazing Chinese temples of the city, including the Cheng Ho Mosque and the Fuk Tsun Temple.
    3. Experience the local nightlife, with a wide variety of clubs, bars, and live music venues to choose from.
    4. Go shopping at the modern malls and shopping centers of the city, such as the Tunjungan Plaza and the Surabaya Town Square.
    5. Take a boat tour of the Madura Strait, where you can see the beautiful islands and beaches of the surrounding region.
    6. Visit the amazing Grahadi State Building, a beautiful architectural masterpiece that houses a museum and art gallery.
    7. Explore the beautiful surrounding forests and mountains, such as the Merbabu National Park and the Semeru National Park.
    8. Take a trip to the charming village of Trowulan, the ancient capital of the Majapahit Empire, where you can see beautiful temples and ruins from the 13th century.

    Conclusion

    Body of Water Near Green Mountain
    Photo by Oliver Sjöström
    Surabaya, Indonesia is a truly amazing destination that offers something for everyone. From exploring the vibrant culture and history of the city, to enjoying the delicious local cuisine and beautiful natural surroundings, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this amazing destination. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Surabaya today and experience all that this amazing city has to offer!


    Have you thought about staying in Surabaya for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Surabaya

    Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Indonesia, such as Makassar, Bali or Jakarta.