Surabaya, Indonesia-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

  • Morning:
    • Arrive at Juanda International Airport
    • Take a taxi or Grab (Indonesia’s Uber) to your hotel in the city center (approximately IDR 30,000 - 50,000 / USD 2-3)
    • Check-in at Hotel Majapahit (a 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location) or similar
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Surabaya Zoo, home to over 300 species of animals (IDR 15,000 / USD 1 admission fee)
    • Take a stroll along the Mandara Beach, a beautiful beach in the heart of the city (free admission)
  • Evening:
    • Head to Jalan Pemuda for dinner and exploration
      • Try Sate Kambing Bakar at Sate House, a popular street food stall serving grilled goat meat skewers (IDR 10,000 / USD 0.70 per stick)
      • Visit the Surabaya Night Market, offering a variety of food stalls and shopping options (free admission)

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Mausoleum of Sunan Amangkurat I, a historical site and final resting place of the founder of the Mataram Sultanate (IDR 10,000 / USD 0.70 admission fee)
    • Explore the Surabaya Museum, showcasing the city’s history and culture (IDR 5,000 / USD 0.35 admission fee)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Tambak Siring Water Palace, a beautiful palace with a stunning garden and fountain show (IDR 15,000 / USD 1 admission fee)
    • Take a break at Kediri Street for lunch and shopping
  • Evening:
    • Head to Jalan Rungkut for dinner and exploration
      • Try Gudeg Lawes, a popular restaurant serving traditional Javanese cuisine (IDR 50,000 / USD 3.50 per meal)
      • Visit the Surabaya Night Market again or explore the surrounding area

Day 3: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Surabaya Trade Center, a large shopping mall with various shops and restaurants (free admission)
    • Take a break at the Surabaya Golf Course, an 18-hole golf course located in the city center (IDR 100,000 / USD 7 per person for green fees)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Indonesian National Museum of Ethnology, showcasing traditional Indonesian culture and art (IDR 5,000 / USD 0.35 admission fee)
    • Take a stroll along the Surabaya Riverwalk, a beautiful promenade along the Surabaya River (free admission)
  • Evening:
    • Head to Jalan Tunjung for dinner and exploration
      • Try Warung Bu Sari, a popular food stall serving traditional Indonesian cuisine (IDR 20,000 / USD 1.40 per meal)
      • Visit the Surabaya Night Market again or explore the surrounding area

Day 4: Adventure

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Bung Tomo Bridge, an iconic bridge with stunning views of the city (free admission)
    • Take a trip to the nearby Mount Penanggungan, a popular hiking spot with breathtaking views (IDR 50,000 / USD 3.50 per person for transportation and entrance fees)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Surabaya Adventure Park, an amusement park with various rides and attractions (IDR 100,000 / USD 7 per person for admission)
    • Take a break at Kediri Street for lunch and shopping
  • Evening:
    • Head to Jalan Rungkut for dinner and exploration
      • Try Gudeg Lawes, a popular restaurant serving traditional Javanese cuisine (IDR 50,000 / USD 3.50 per meal)
      • Visit the Surabaya Night Market again or explore the surrounding area

Day 5: Last Day in Surabaya

  • Morning:
    • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
    • Take a last-minute visit to any attraction you missed earlier in your trip
  • Afternoon:
    • Check-out of your hotel and depart for the airport (approximately IDR 30,000 - 50,000 / USD 2-3 by taxi or Grab)
    • Depart from Juanda International Airport

Things to Know

  • Language: Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) is the official language, but many locals also speak Javanese.
  • Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at a bank or use an ATM.
  • Weather: Surabaya has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothing.
  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and avoid traveling alone at night.

Tips

  • Try local food: Indonesian cuisine is delicious and varied. Try trying some traditional dishes like nasi goreng, gado-gado, or sate kambing bakar.
  • Respect local customs: Indonesia is a conservative country, so be sure to dress modestly and respect local traditions.
  • Bring sunscreen: Surabaya can get very sunny, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses.

Getting Around

  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the city. You can hail one on the street or book in advance through a taxi app like Grab.
  • Grab: Grab is Indonesia’s version of Uber. It’s easy to use and affordable.
  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city, especially in smaller areas.

Other Activities

  • Visit a local temple: There are many beautiful temples throughout Surabaya, each with its own unique character and history.
  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng or gado-gado.
  • Explore the nearby islands: The surrounding islands offer stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.

Note: Prices mentioned are approximate and subject to change.