Surabaya Indonesia

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Surabaya: City of Heroes

Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city, boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and vibrant energy. Known as the “City of Heroes,” it offers a fascinating blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, delicious culinary delights, and warm Indonesian hospitality. This comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know for an unforgettable Surabaya adventure.

1. Places to Go:

  • Historical Landmarks:

    • Surabaya Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan): This iconic monument commemorates the valiant struggle of Surabaya’s people against Dutch colonialism in 1945. Climb to the top for panoramic city views.
    • House of Sampoerna: Explore this beautifully restored historic building, once a tobacco factory and now a museum showcasing the legacy of Indonesia’s famous clove cigarette brand. Enjoy traditional Javanese performances and learn about the intricate process of cigarette making.
    • Surabaya Cathedral: Admire the architectural grandeur of this 19th-century Catholic cathedral, a testament to Surabaya’s colonial past.

  • Cultural Gems:

    • Taman Bungkul: This sprawling green oasis in the heart of Surabaya is perfect for relaxation and people-watching. Enjoy street performers, local snacks, and the serene atmosphere.
    • Museum Mpu Tantular: Delve into the history and culture of East Java through fascinating exhibits on archaeology, art, and traditional life.

  • Shopping & Entertainment:

    • Tunjungan Plaza: Surabaya’s largest shopping mall offers a wide range of international and local brands, department stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
    • Pasar Atom: Experience the vibrant chaos of this bustling traditional market where you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to clothing and souvenirs at bargain prices.

2. Activities:

  • Indulge in Culinary Delights:

    • Rawon Setan: Sample Surabaya’s iconic dish, rawon, a rich beef soup with black keluak nut paste. Rawon Setan is renowned for its flavorful broth and tender meat.
    • Rujak Cingur: This popular street food combines diced vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and beef snout in a spicy peanut sauce.

  • Explore the Coastal Beauty:

    • Kenjeran Beach: Relax on the sandy shores, enjoy watersports, or visit the Kenjeran Park with its amusement rides and attractions.
    • Gereja Katedral Surabaya: This majestic cathedral offers a glimpse into Surabaya’s colonial past and is known for its impressive architecture and stained glass windows.

  • Experience the Nightlife:

    • Jalan Tunjungan: This bustling street comes alive at night with trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants offering live music and entertainment.

3. Where to Eat:

  • Rawon Nguling: A popular restaurant serving authentic rawon in a traditional setting.

  • Rujak Cingur “Ibu Tini”: A legendary spot for Surabaya’s signature rujak cingur dish.

  • Warung Bu Rudy: Enjoy delicious Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng and sate ayam (grilled chicken skewers) at affordable prices.

  • Selat Solo: This restaurant serves a traditional Javanese dish of beef stew in a rich gravy, typically served with potatoes and vegetables.

4. Where to Stay:

  • Luxury Hotels:

    • Shangri-La Surabaya: Offers stunning city views, luxurious amenities, and impeccable service.
    • Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a rooftop pool.

  • Mid-Range Hotels:

    • Novotel Surabaya: Provides convenient access to the city center and offers comfortable accommodations at reasonable rates.
    • The Majapahit Hotel: A historic hotel with colonial charm, located near major attractions.

  • Budget-Friendly Options:

    • RedDoorz Plus @ Jalan Embong Malang: Clean and affordable rooms with essential amenities.
    • Capsule Hostel Surabaya: A unique and social accommodation option offering capsule beds and communal spaces.

5. Things to Know:

  • Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

  • Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.

  • Visa: Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival for tourism purposes. Check the latest visa requirements before your trip.

  • Climate: Surabaya has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round.

6. Transportation:

  • Public Transportation:

    • Buses: Affordable and widely available, but routes can be confusing.
    • Angkutan Kota (City Transport): Shared minivans that follow set routes within the city.

  • Taxis: Blue Bird taxis are reliable and metered.

  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Gojek and Grab are popular apps for ride-hailing and delivery services.

7. Tips:

  • Bargain: Haggling is common practice in markets and with street vendors.

  • Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively by covering your shoulders and knees.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration in the hot climate.

  • Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few basic Indonesian phrases will enhance your interactions with locals.

8. Other Things of Interest:

  • Surabaya Zoo: Home to a wide variety of animals, including orangutans, tigers, and elephants.

  • Ciputra World Surabaya: A massive shopping and entertainment complex with department stores, cinemas, restaurants, and an amusement park.

  • Sidoarjo Mudflow: Witness the ongoing mud volcano eruption in nearby Sidoarjo, a unique natural phenomenon.

Enjoy Your Adventure in Surabaya!

This guide is designed to be your starting point for exploring the wonders of Surabaya. Remember to embrace the city’s vibrant energy, savor its delicious cuisine, and create unforgettable memories during your adventure.