Top reasons to visit Surabaya
- Vibrant City Atmosphere: Surabaya offers a lively blend of modern amenities and rich cultural experiences, making it a captivating destination for all types of travellers.
- Cultural Exploration: Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's heritage by visiting historic mosques, houses, and monuments that showcase local traditions.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The city provides a variety of attractions tailored for families, ensuring fun and educational experiences for all ages.
- Shopping and Dining: Surabaya boasts excellent malls and local restaurants, offering diverse shopping and culinary experiences.
- Diverse Accommodation: From luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, there's a range of options to suit every traveller's budget and preference.
Find great hotels in Surabaya
Discover an array of hotel accommodations in Surabaya, East Java, catering to every traveller's needs. From luxurious stays at the Sheraton Surabaya to charming guesthouses, the city offers a variety of options for business and family vacations alike. Enjoy spa-themed facilities and exceptional services, ensuring a memorable experience during your visit to this vibrant city. Explore top hotels in Surabaya and find the perfect base for your adventures.
- Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Tunjungan Plaza: Situated in the heart of Surabaya, the Four Points by Sheraton offers a family-friendly atmosphere complemented by a city-themed experience. This 4-star hotel boasts a commendable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Ideal for business travellers and families alike, it features amenities designed specifically for children, including a pool for children, free cribs, and safety measures like window guards. With convenient access to local attractions, guests can enjoy a blend of comfort and practicality in this vibrant city centre location.
- JW Marriott Surabaya: As a 5-star luxury hotel, JW Marriott Surabaya stands out with its elegant design and superior guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This property caters to families seeking a luxurious vacation experience, providing amenities such as a children’s club and a dedicated pool area for kids. The hotel also offers free cribs and breakfast options for children, ensuring a delightful stay for younger guests. Located in a prime area, it combines sophistication with family-friendly services, making it a top choice for those looking to indulge.
- Fairfield by Marriott Surabaya: Fairfield by Marriott Surabaya is a comfortable, 4-star accommodation aimed at business travellers, with a solid guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This hotel provides a practical environment for those on work-related trips, featuring well-equipped rooms and essential amenities. While it may not have the extensive facilities of its luxury counterparts, it offers a reliable base for professionals seeking convenience and ease while exploring Surabaya's business landscape.
Where to stay in Surabaya
Surabaya offers a delightful blend of culture and modernity, making it ideal for family and business-themed vacations. Explore the vibrant Pakuwon Indah area, known for its friendly atmosphere and hidden gems. This walkable city boasts convenient locations for excursions, allowing travellers to relax and engage with the local vibe. With its budget-friendly options and welcoming neighbourhoods, Surabaya promises an enriching experience for every visitor.
- Wonocolo: Nestled within the Surabaya area, Wonocolo is a charming village that attracts travellers year-round, particularly peaking in May, July, and September. Visitors are drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant city-themed experiences. The village offers easy access to shopping centres and malls, making it an ideal spot for retail therapy. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby landmarks, including monuments and memorials, as well as a scenic mountain, providing a perfect blend of urban and natural attractions.
- Pakuwon City: Also located in the Surabaya region, Pakuwon City is another inviting village that maintains a steady flow of visitors throughout the year. Peak travel times occur in January and during the summer months of June to July. The village is known for its business-friendly environment and family-oriented activities. Guests can enjoy a variety of shopping options at local centres and malls. Pakuwon City serves as a convenient hub for those looking to experience the lively city life while indulging in retail delights.
- Gubeng: Gubeng is a vibrant neighbourhood situated around Surabaya, welcoming a diverse range of visitors throughout the year, particularly in July, September, and December. This area is celebrated for its city-themed experiences, making it a popular choice for business travellers and families alike. Gubeng is conveniently located near shopping centres, educational institutions, and the bustling piazza square. Additionally, the nearby mountain provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and exploration, making Gubeng a well-rounded destination.
Things to do in Surabaya
Shopping
In Surabaya, visit Tunjungan Plaza, a premier shopping destination with a mix of local and international brands. For a unique experience, if you're up for a drive, head to Ciputra World, located about 19km away, featuring upscale shopping and dining options in a modern setting.
Recreation
Hammam Spa offers an oasis of relaxation with traditional Indonesian treatments, soothing massages, and rejuvenating body scrubs. For a tranquil escape, visit the beautiful Taman Bungkul park, where you can enjoy leisurely strolls amid lush greenery and tranquil surroundings.
Experience the calming atmosphere at the Wellness Spa, featuring holistic therapies and wellness programmes focused on mind and body harmony. Alternatively, unwind at Kenjeran Beach, where the gentle waves and stunning sunsets create a serene environment for relaxation and reflection.
Adventure
In Surabaya, explore the vibrant Taman Safari Prigen, where you can embark on a thrilling safari adventure among exotic wildlife. For a unique experience, venture to Mount Bromo, renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views and exhilarating hiking trails through volcanic landscapes.
Nightlife
In Surabaya, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife at the bustling Tunjungan Plaza, where shopping meets entertainment. For a lively bar scene, visit the stylish Sky Lounge, offering stunning views. Alternatively, experience local culture at the traditional food stalls in G-Walk, perfect for a late-night snack.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Surabaya
Surabaya offers numerous ways to save money while exploring the city. Enjoy free attractions like the Suramadu Bridge, Surabaya Town Square, and Red Bridge. For transport, opt for buses and motorcycles to keep costs low. The best months for budget travel are February, April, and June, while Saturdays are typically the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia to find great deals by filtering for your budget and combining hotel bookings with flights and activities for additional savings. Always check for any hidden fees to ensure a hassle-free experience.
- 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, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses 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 family, city, and business-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as mosques, historic houses, and monuments. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture while enjoying experiences tailored for families and those seeking a vibrant city atmosphere. Exploring these points of interest will provide a memorable experience for every traveller in this bustling Indonesian city.
- Chinatown: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Surabaya's Chinatown, where rich cultural heritage blends with bustling city life. Stroll through colourful streets filled with traditional shops, delicious street food stalls, and ornate architecture that reflects a unique blend of cultures.
- Surabaya Town Square: This lively piazza is a cultural hub featuring a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Enjoy the open-air environment, participate in local events, and soak in the lively city vibe while indulging in culinary delights from various cuisines.
- Al Akbar Mosque: As one of the largest mosques in Indonesia, Al Akbar Mosque boasts stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Visitors can admire its impressive dome and minaret while learning about Islamic culture and the mosque's significance to the local community.
Best time to go to Surabaya
The best time to visit Surabaya is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. October is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Surabaya
Flying into Surabaya, East Java, is convenient with the main airport being Surabaya (SUB-Juanda), located 14km from the city. Excellent nearby accommodations include the 5-star Oakwood Hotel & Residence, 11km from the airport, offering various transport services including a 24-hour airport shuttle. JW Marriott Surabaya and Sheraton Surabaya Hotel and Towers are both situated 14km away, with accessible airport transport options. Alternatively, you can consider Malang (MLG-Abdul Rachman Saleh), 76km from Surabaya, with luxury options like Hotel Tugu Malang and The Singhasari Resort, both providing reliable shuttle services. For those venturing further, Noto Hadinegoro Airport (JBB) is 151km away, with several hotels offering transport services.