Surabaya, Indonesia
Welcome to Surabaya: A Travel Guide
Table of Contents
Places to Visit
Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some must-visit places:
1. Monumen Kapal Selam
- Address: Jl. Pemuda No. 4, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (daily)
- Admission: IDR 2,000 (approximately USD 0.14)
This iconic submarine monument is a must-visit for its unique blend of history and architecture.
2. Tugu Pahlawan
- Address: Jl. Pemuda No. 3, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (daily)
- Admission: IDR 1,000 (approximately USD 0.07)
Dedicated to the heroes of Indonesia’s struggle for independence, this monument is a poignant reminder of the country’s rich history.
3. Surabaya Zoo
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (daily)
- Admission: IDR 15,000 (approximately USD 1)
Home to over 300 species of animals, the Surabaya Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon with family and friends.
4. Ciputra Water Park
- Address: Jl. Raya Nginden No. 100, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (daily)
- Admission: IDR 50,000 - IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 3.5 - USD 10)
Cool off on a hot day with a visit to this massive water park, featuring slides, wave pools, and more.
5. Surabaya Marina
- Address: Jl. Raya Nginden No. 100, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (daily)
- Admission: IDR 10,000 (approximately USD 0.70)
Take a stroll along the marina and enjoy the beautiful views of the sea.
Activities
Surabaya offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests:
1. Shopping
- Visit the Tunjungan Plaza, one of the largest shopping malls in Indonesia
- Explore the Surabaya Trade Center for a vast array of products and services
- Browse through the many street stalls and markets selling everything from clothes to souvenirs
2. Dining
- Savor traditional Indonesian cuisine at restaurants like Ayam Penyet or Mie Jawa
- Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the many rooftop restaurants in the city
- Try some delicious street food, such as siomay or bakso
3. Cultural Events
- Attend a traditional dance performance, like the Jaipong or Reog Ponorogo
- Watch a live concert or music festival at one of the many venues in the city
- Visit the Surabaya Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region
4. Adventure Activities
- Take a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands and marine life
- Go hiking or trekking in the nearby forests and hills
- Try your hand at water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding
Where to Eat
Surabaya is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences:
1. Ayam Penyet
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (daily)
- Price Range: IDR 20,000 - IDR 50,000 (approximately USD 1.4 - USD 3.5)
This popular restaurant serves delicious Ayam Penyet, a traditional Indonesian dish made from crushed chicken.
2. Mie Jawa
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (daily)
- Price Range: IDR 15,000 - IDR 30,000 (approximately USD 1 - USD 2)
Try this local favorite for a flavorful bowl of Mie Jawa, a type of Indonesian noodle soup.
3. Sate House
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (daily)
- Price Range: IDR 20,000 - IDR 40,000 (approximately USD 1.4 - USD 2.8)
Savor the rich flavors of Sate House’s grilled meats and skewers.
4. Kafe 17
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (daily)
- Price Range: IDR 15,000 - IDR 30,000 (approximately USD 1 - USD 2)
This cozy cafe serves a variety of coffee and tea, as well as light bites and snacks.
Accommodation
Surabaya offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets:
1. Hotel Majapahit
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Price Range: IDR 150,000 - IDR 300,000 (approximately USD 10 - USD 21)
This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views.
2. Hotel Tunjungan
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Price Range: IDR 100,000 - IDR 200,000 (approximately USD 7 - USD 14)
This modern hotel features sleek design and comfortable rooms.
3. Hotel Royal
- Address: Jl. Raya Tunjungan No. 1-2, Surabaya
- Price Range: IDR 50,000 - IDR 100,000 (approximately USD 3.5 - USD 7)
This budget-friendly hotel offers basic amenities and a convenient location.
4. Homestay
- Address: Various locations throughout Surabaya
- Price Range: IDR 20,000 - IDR 50,000 (approximately USD 1.4 - USD 3.5)
Experience local culture by staying in a homestay, where you can enjoy traditional meals and interact with the family.
Things to Know
Before traveling to Surabaya:
- Language: Indonesian is the official language, but many locals also speak Javanese.
- Currency: IDR (Indonesian Rupiah) is the local currency.
- Weather: Surabaya has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year.
- Safety: Be mindful of your belongings and avoid traveling alone at night.
Transportation
Getting around Surabaya is relatively easy:
1. Taxi
- You can hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance through a ride-hailing app.
- Make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
2. Ride-Hailing Apps
- Use apps like Grab or Go-Van to book a ride.
- Be aware of surge pricing during peak hours.
3. Public Transportation
- Take a bus or minibus to get around the city.
- You can also use the Trans Semarang (red and white) buses, which cover most areas of Surabaya.
Tips and Tricks
To make the most out of your trip:
- Learn some basic Indonesian phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning a few words like “hello” (halo), “thank you” (terima kasih), and “excuse me” (tolong).
- Bring sunscreen and sun hat: Protect yourself from the strong sun.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot weather.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or mosques, and avoid public displays of affection.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore all that Surabaya has to offer.