Surabaya Indonesia – Top-10 Tourist Attractions and Things to Do

The capital of the East Java province, Surabaya is not only a gateway destination for those longing to tackle the misty summit of Mount Bromo, but the metropolis is also a bustling business hubbub for Indonesia’s professionals and businessmen. Although well-known for its business scene and popular with the domestic market, Surabaya has a surprisingly playful quality too; with several interesting and enjoyable things to do. Being a port, Surabaya also boasts beautifully scenic views across the water and since it is a city that is usually not visited much by international tourists, there are still a myriad of unspoiled charms and hidden gems to explore. Here we will list our top 10 attractions and activities in Surabaya and reasons to visit.

1. It’s an absolute foodie’s paradise.

This is at the very top of the list for very good reason. Often more important than museums or monuments, excellent food is often the thing that travelers remember most fondly about a place. Surabaya offers travelers an abundance of foodie haunts to visit and tantalizing culinary delights that perfectly capture the tradition, culture and flavor of Indonesia’s second largest city. From scrumptious dishes being ladled onto plates and into hungry mouths at night bazaars, all the way to fine-dining delicacies on crisp, white linen tablecloths; Surabaya encourages elastic pants and an adventurous pallet. Don’t leave without trying Ayam Goreng (Indonesian fried chicken), Tahu Telor (a supper omelet with tofu and peanut gravy), Rujak Cingur (a spicy salad containing raw fruits, vegetables and beef lips) and Sayur Asem (Indonesian-style sour vegetable soup).

2. Perfect for as a Mount Bromo gateway.

Undoubtedly one of Surabaya’s primary reasons to visit is as an entry point to Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park wherein the majestic Mount Bromo lies. The smoldering crater of Java’s most well-known volcano can be accessed on the popular Bromo Midnight Tour that departs from Surabaya very late at night.

The late (or early?) departure is designed especially so that travelers can reach the volcano in the early hours of the morning and watch the dreamy, pastel colors of sunrise rise off the rim of the crater. The early morning wake-up call, freezing temperatures, and the somewhat strenuous hike will all be worth it as you watch the dawn sunlight slowly reveal one of Indonesia’s most iconic sights. There are many tour operators that offer similar, competitive packages. Rates are usually around IDR 800,000 per person but generally go down if booking with more than two people.

3. House of Sampoerna cigarette factory

A surprisingly entertaining day out. A visit to a cigarette factory probably wouldn’t usually be a top tourist attraction but the House of Sampoerna cigarette factory is the exception to this rule. Sampoerna House is Surabaya’s most popular sight-seeing attraction and with the informative and interactive, family-owned museum; as well as the working cigarette factory on site, it’s not difficult to understand why. Open seven days a week from 9am until 6pm, the Dutch-colonial style architecture and fascinating exhibits are sure to entice you to stay a little longer and have a bite to eat inside the cozy café after browsing the museum.

4. The Suramadu National Bridge

More of a tourist attraction than a bridge, the Suramadu National Bridge connects Surabaya on the island of Java with the quiet town of Bangkalan on the island of Madura. The bridge is well-worth a visit, especially at nighttime where the lights on the bridge are brightly illuminated and create quite a striking ambiance with stunning reflections bouncing off the water. Generally at evening time the bridge is enjoyed by cheerful tourists trying to get a selfie with the picturesque view as the background, photographers trying to capture the lights, or by couples of all ages strolling hand in hand.

5. Monumen Kapal Selam

We all live in a yellow submarine! Monumen Kapal Selam is a museum inside an old, Russian war submarine that visitors are allowed to explore on their own or on guided tours. One can investigate the periscope, climb into the depths of the torpedo tubes and poke and prod at anything within the interior that tickles their fancy. Created in 1952 by the Soviet Union, the submarine was cut into pieces in order to be transported from the ocean onto the land for visitors to explore today. The submarine is located within a manicured park along the Mas River with a scattering of trendy cafes to grab a coffee and a light meal after you’re finished exploring the dusty nooks and crannies of the submarine.

6. Old Chinatown

Fondly known as ‘Kya-Kya’, the old Chinatown in Surabaya directly translates to “hanging around” in the Hokkien dialect and this is exactly what a trip to the quaint and charming Old Chinatown will entail. Visitors can delight in taking their time, strolling around the streets and shops adorned with Chinese emblems, looking at dragon sculptures, and taking in the traditional red lanterns. Photo opportunities also abound here in this festive-looking part of Surabaya and travelers may even get the opportunity to observe live entertainment in the form of dancing or singing while exploring the streets. At night time this part of the city comes alive with dozens of food and drink stalls filling the air with scrumptious, fragrant smells and trade goes on until the early hours of the morning. Old Chinatown can be found on Jalan Panggung which is a 20 minute walk from the House of Sampoerna.

7. Cool off at Ciputra Waterpark.

Don’t forget your swimsuit and sunscreen! One of the largest waterparks in the whole of South East Asia lies in Surabaya. Ciputra Waterpark has plenty of water rides and amusement rides that are sure to thrill the whole family. Fun activities at Ciputra include a wave pool, a 480 meter river that circles the park, Roc Tower Thunder Ride which is a 15 meter pitch-black slide, and even a lagoon. Open from 10am until 7pm, the waterpark is located at Kawasan Waterpark Boulevard Citraland.

8. Enjoy tea at the Majapahit Hotel

Originally a prison camp for Dutch women and children during World War 2, this gorgeous, Dutch-style hotel offers visitors a gateway to a time long gone with its ornate architecture and majestic interior décor. Any visit to Majapahit Hotel would be incomplete without indulging in a decadent high tea of hot beverages, dainty sandwiches and delicious desserts. High tea is served from 12pm until 6pm which allows visitors time to explore the lush courtyards and immaculate gardens before or after eating. Frolic amongst the date palms, photograph the impressive fountains and grab an information pamphlet from the front desk to fully submerge yourself in the history of this fine establishment.

9. Pay a visit to the Heroes Monument

Calling all history buffs! The Heroes Monument in Surabaya is the city’s main symbol and is a dedication to all those who lost their lives during the Battle of Surabaya in 1945. The very first stone that was laid down for the monument was laid down by the first Indonesian president. The monument itself is extremely impressive and stretches almost 42 meters high and consists of two floors with exhibitions as well as an auditorium. Documentary photographs and accurate reproductions are scattered throughout the monument and those who wish to learn more about the war will find the museum especially informative and helpful.

10. Spend a relaxing afternoon at Bungkul Park

Travelers longing for a bit of green space and fresh air while in Surabaya should head to Bungkul Park for blissful peace and quiet. The park offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere, green lawns to amble on, trees to read under, and plenty of street vendors for those who fancy having a makeshift picnic in the shade. For travelers wishing for something slightly more exciting than relaxing on the grass, Bungkul Park is also a popular spot with joggers, skaters and locals practicing Tai Chi.