Top reasons to visit Surabaya
- Diverse Cultural Experiences: Surabaya boasts stunning mosques, historic houses, and significant monuments, perfect for those seeking cultural enrichment.
- Vibrant Shopping Scene: Explore bustling shopping centres and malls, offering a delightful mix of local and international brands.
- Delectable Local Cuisine: Sample an array of local dishes at diverse restaurants, showcasing the rich flavours of Indonesian cuisine.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The city's attractions cater to families, ensuring fun and memorable experiences for all ages.
- Warm Local Atmosphere: Friendly locals and charming neighbourhoods make for a welcoming and immersive travel experience.
Find great hotels in Surabaya
Experience the vibrant charm of Surabaya with a diverse range of accommodation options tailored to meet the needs of every traveller. Whether you're seeking a luxurious stay at the Sheraton Surabaya or a cosy guesthouse, the city offers a variety of hotels perfect for business trips, family vacations, or spa retreats. Discover the top hotels in Surabaya and enjoy a memorable getaway in this bustling Indonesian metropolis.
- Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah: This 4-star hotel offers a family-friendly and romantic setting, perfect for those seeking a memorable getaway in Surabaya. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, it features golf-themed experiences, making it ideal for both golf enthusiasts and leisure travellers. Guests can indulge in a range of amenities designed for children, including a dedicated pool and breakfast options tailored for younger visitors. The hotel also provides intimate romance packages, allowing couples to unwind at the spa and enjoy the outdoor pool, complete with cabanas and sun loungers for a relaxing day under the sun.
- JW Marriott Surabaya: This luxurious 5-star accommodation boasts a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10 and is tailored for families looking for a lavish experience. Guests can enjoy an array of amenities for children, including a free kids’ club and specially curated breakfast options. The hotel excels in providing a family-friendly atmosphere, with features such as a children's pool and complimentary cribs. Its elegant facilities and attentive service create a sophisticated yet comfortable environment, making it a superb choice for those who appreciate luxury while travelling with their families.
- Swiss-Belinn Tunjungan Surabaya: Rated 4 stars with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for business travellers and those seeking a spa retreat. The property offers a full-service spa with a variety of treatments, including massages and manicures, ensuring relaxation after a busy day. The outdoor pool provides a refreshing escape, complemented by a serene atmosphere that encourages rejuvenation. Its convenient location makes it easy for guests to access business centres and local attractions, catering to both work and leisure needs.
Where to stay in Surabaya
Surabaya, a vibrant city in East Java, offers an array of experiences for every traveller. From the bustling Pakuwon Indah area with its modern amenities to charming neighbourhoods filled with friendly locals, you’ll discover hidden gems around every corner. This walkable city is perfect for families and business trips alike, providing a unique blend of culture and relaxation. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere and explore the exciting excursions nearby.
- Waru: Nestled in the heart of Surabaya, Waru offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly activities. This neighbourhood is characterised by its lush parks and vibrant theme parks, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a fun day out with loved ones. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of nearby mountains and partake in various outdoor pursuits. Although tourist numbers fluctuate throughout the year, February, October, and December see the most visitors, ensuring a lively atmosphere during these months.
- Surabaya Center: As the bustling hub of Surabaya, Surabaya Center is a must-visit for those looking to experience the city's vibrant culture and scenic beauty. This neighbourhood is perfect for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its proximity to stunning mountains and historical landmarks, including magnificent mosques and fascinating museums. The shopping experience here is unparalleled, with numerous shopping centres and malls catering to diverse tastes. Expect a surge of visitors from July to August and October, creating a vibrant energy throughout the area during these peak times.
- Wonocolo: A charming village in the Surabaya area, Wonocolo is ideal for family outings and business-themed visits. Known for its inviting atmosphere, this locale offers a variety of shopping centres and malls for a leisurely day of retail therapy. Visitors can also explore local monuments and memorials that highlight the village's rich history. While tourist numbers are fairly consistent throughout the year, the months of May, July, and September attract the most visitors, ensuring a warm and welcoming environment for all.
Things to do in Surabaya
Shopping
In Surabaya, visit Tunjungan Plaza for a variety of local and international brands. If you're up for a drive, check out Galaxy Mall, which features a great selection of shops, entertainment, and dining options.
Recreation
In Surabaya, the Vasa Hotel's Spa offers rejuvenating treatments with a blend of traditional and modern techniques amidst a tranquil atmosphere. Additionally, the Shangri-La Hotel's Health Club features a well-equipped gym and an inviting pool, ideal for relaxation and revitalisation during your stay.
Adventure
Mount Bromo offers breathtaking views and thrilling hikes at sunrise, revealing the dramatic volcanic landscape. Explore the vibrant Sidoarjo mudflow area for an unusual geological experience, or dive into the rich marine life at Gili Petelu for snorkelling adventures in crystal-clear waters.
Nightlife
In Surabaya, the vibrant nightlife scene includes venues like the lively Jatim Park 3 with its attractions and entertainment options. At the luxurious JW Marriott Hotel, you can enjoy cocktails and fine dining, while clubs such as Velvet offer pulsating music and a dynamic atmosphere for a night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Surabaya
Surabaya provides numerous free attractions, including the Suramadu Bridge and Surabaya Town Square. To save on transport, utilise local buses and motorcycles for affordable travel. For budget-friendly accommodation, visit during February, April, or June, and consider booking on a Saturday for lower rates. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Sorting options by price can help you find the best deals on your stay, ensuring an economical yet enjoyable visit to this vibrant city.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Surabaya are February, April and June, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Surabaya is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Surabaya is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: Consider the possibility of saving money by combining your hotel reservation in Surabaya with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Surabaya
Surabaya is an excellent destination for families and business travellers alike, offering a blend of cultural and city experiences. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including stunning mosques, historic houses, and significant monuments, making it an ideal location for those seeking a rich cultural journey. The city's diverse points of interest ensure that every traveller finds something to enjoy in this vibrant Indonesian metropolis.
- Suramadu Bridge: This modern architectural marvel connects Surabaya to Madura Island, offering stunning views over the Madura Strait. The bridge’s impressive length and sleek design create a striking silhouette against the skyline, making it an ideal spot for photographers and those seeking a unique vantage point of the city.
- Chinatown: A vibrant neighbourhood rich in history and culture, Surabaya's Chinatown is bustling with life. Explore colourful markets, savour authentic street food, and admire traditional Chinese architecture that reflects the area’s diverse heritage, all while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
- Surabaya Town Square: This lively piazza is a hub of culture and social interaction, featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. With its open spaces and vibrant events, it’s a perfect place to relax, mingle with locals, and immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic spirit.
Best time to go to Surabaya
The best time to visit Surabaya can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Surabaya falls in October, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Surabaya falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Surabaya
Surabaya can be accessed through several airports, with the closest being Juanda Airport (SUB), located 14.5km from the city centre. Nearby, you can find luxurious hotels like JW Marriott Surabaya and Bumi Surabaya City Resort, both offering convenient airport shuttle services. Malang Airport (MLG) is situated 75.6km away, with quality accommodations such as Hotel Santika Premiere Malang and Savana Hotel & Convention Malang, providing transport options to the airport. For those further afield, Noto Hadinegoro Airport (JBB) is 151.3km from Surabaya, with hotels like Hotel 88 Diponegoro Jember offering shuttle services on request.