The 13 essential things to do in Surabaya

Visit Surabaya: what are the best things to do and see in this ultra dynamic and modern metropolis of the island of Java?

It’s gone to the direction Indonesia ! The Indonesian Archipelago consists of several thousand islands, including the largest Java. It represents a dream destination and especially varied! Its heavenly beaches, volcanoes and rice fields, Indonesia is considered a paradise on Earth. However, great interesting cities are to be discovered, like Surabaya!

Located on the island of Java, in the province of East Java, it is the 2nd largest city in Indonesia after the capital Jakarta with 3.5 million inhabitants. Surabaya is nicknamed “The City of Heroes”, because of its important role in the country’s independence during the Indonesian National Revolution. In addition to being an industrial and modern city, Surbaya is the main maritime port of Oriental Indonesia. Visiting the metropolis ensures you discover many religious sites, an amazing architecture, various attractions and a tasteful cuisine. Let’s not forget to mention the incredible shopping sessions and the lively nightlife! Are you wondering what to do in Surabaya? This is it!

1. The house Sampoerna

If you are going to visit Surabaya, then don't miss the visit of the Sampoerna house. Created in the 19th century, this magnificent complex of several buildings includes a cigarette factory and a museum on tobacco production. The Sampoerna House is built in the Dutch colonial style.

2. Suramada Bridge and the Madura Islands

3. The Bromo and Ijen volcanoes

Visiting Surabaya will also allow you to be well located to discover some of the most important tourist attractions of Java. From Surabaya, many tours are organized for a Mont Bromo and Mont Ijen combo. And honestly, the two volcanoes are to be seen! You can of course organize your own journey, taking care of your transport and accommodations, but you may need to be patient. The tours are often more expensive, but the organization is necessarily much easier!

Le Mont Bromo

With an altitude of 2,200 metres and still active, Mont Bromo is one of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes. Because of the danger of the place, he prefers the ascent of Mount Penanjakan, to attend the sunrise on the Bromo. The King Kong Hill viewpoint is accessible on foot or by jeep. You can then go around the volcano and climb to the top of the crater.

Mount Ijen

Also called Kawa Ijen, his ascent is to be done in the middle of the night. Why? You will attend the trip to the breathtaking blue flame show. This is due to the combustion of sulphuric gases in contact with air at temperatures above 220 °C. Once you reach the top of the volcano, after an ascent that remains affordable to all in terms of technique, you will patiently wait up the sunrise. The first rays of the sun will finally reveal the lake with an emerald, deep colour. The lake is located at the bottom of the crater. You can also see sulphur carriers on your way. They risk their lives every day in very difficult conditions.

4. Masjid Cheng Hoo Mosque

Built in the 15th century, this uncommon mosque is dedicated to the Chinese Muslims. The specificity of this mosque is in the combination of several styles. This mix of medium oriental architecture, local Javanese culture and its yellow, green and red colors, which remind some China temples, make it a magnificent building. Don’t miss out on the observation platform located right next door, which offers a wonderful view of the city.

5. The old port of Kalimas

If you are looking for what to do in Surabaya, go to the early morning (before sunrise and so before the rest of the day), on the old port of Kalimas, to see the premises loading and unloading the boats. In the harbour you can also see old wooden boats, built six centuries ago.

6. La Mangrove de Wonorejo

7. Al Akbar Mosque

For some, it is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. With its minaret of almost 100 meters high offering a unique panoramic view of the city, and its blue dome of 65 meters high, it is one of the most famous tourist attractions of the city. You can admire the elegance of its marble interior from the first floor accessible to the public, the ground floor being reserved for Muslims.

8. Ciputra Waterpark

Ideal if you’re travelling with your family and wondering that doing in Surabaya is one of the largest water parks in Southeast Asia. You can enjoy 5 hectares of attractions, including swimming pools, slides and even a 5D cinema! It is inspired by the universe of Persian tale "Simibad the sailor".

9. Trade centres

Like his great sister Jakarta, the city of Surabaya is full of larger shopping centers than others! If you're going to visit Surabaya, wait to discover demeasure, air conditioning, floors by dozens, and shops by hundreds... High tech, fashion, accessories, handicrafts, traditional jewelry, antiques, perfumes... Large couturiers with traditional small shops... If you're looking for something, no doubts, you'll find it here! To name just a few, you will find the Supermall, which in fact brings together 3 shopping centers side by side, Tunjunhan Plaza, the second largest of the city, Plaza Graha Famili, smaller and outdoor, which includes a large play area for children or the Ciputra World or Lenmarc.

10. Gastronomy

Visiting Surabaya is also an opportunity to discover or rediscover Asian flavours. Their reputation is no longer to be done... so it seems obvious that in a large city like Surabaya you can discover delicious Indonesian flavors. From the small "warung" street to the gastronomic restaurant of major hotels in the city, to the "food court" of shopping centers, there will be for all tastes and wallets! " Nasi goreng" (riz frit) , "Sate Ayam" (input satay), "Sate Kambing" (Lamb) , "Gado gado" (salade of vegetables with a peanut sauce), "Bakso" (soupe with meatball), are typical dishes with enchanting flavors that you will not forget! And if it's been a long time since you're in Indonesia and you're starting to get tired of food (yes, yes, it happens), the city is full of restaurants of all nationalities! You'll find something to delight your taste buds!

11. The Arab Quarter

12. The church of Gerea Kelahiran

13. The Old Town

How do I get to Surabaya?

You decided to go to Surabaya? Know that there are no direct flights from France. Some flights from Paris include most of the time 1 stopover, most often in Singapore. You'll have to count around 16 hours on average. If you are already in Indonesia, there are many cheap internal flights from many cities in the archipelago! You will find a cheap flight on our partner Skyscanner's website. Surabaya International Airport, also known as Juanda, is 20 kilometres south of the city. You can easily reach the city centre of Surabaya by taxi for less than 10€ (with taxi meter).

Where to stay in Surabaya?

If you choose to visit Surabaya, staying will not be a problem! From the small guest house to the living room, to the great luxury hotel, the city is full of accommodations and you will find your happiness! The majority of the local population lives in a metropolitan area called Gerbangkertosusila. If you are looking for atmosphere and animation, the G-Walk and Loop neighbourhoods are ideal! You can find a cheap hotel in Surabaya by searching for this hotel comparison.

We will not hide it from you, Surabaya is, just like Jakarta, a big city that laughs with pollution, heat, noise and traffic.. But, in passing a few days, you will undoubtedly discover the best places, and you will find charming beaucup! So you still wonder what to do in Surabaya?

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