Surabaya Indonesia

Surabaya Travel Guide 🇮🇩

Welcome to Surabaya, the vibrant second-largest city in Indonesia! This comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in.

Places to Visit 🏙️

  1. Heroes’ Monument (Monumen Pemuda): A significant landmark symbolizing the Indonesian National Revolution. The panoramic city view from the top is breathtaking.
  2. Surabaya Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in Southeast Asia, home to a variety of exotic animals.
  3. Suroboyo Carnival Park (Taman Festival Suroboyo): A popular park offering events, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.
  4. China Town (Glodok): A bustling area with unique shops, restaurants, and temples reflecting Chinese-Indonesian culture.
  5. Masjid Agung Cheng Ho (Grand Mosque of Surabaya): An impressive architectural masterpiece that can accommodate 1200 worshipers at once.
  6. Sukarno House: The childhood home of Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, now converted into a museum showcasing his life and Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
  7. Sampoerna Museum: A tobacco history museum featuring antique items, artworks, and traditional Javanese architecture.

Activities 🎈

  1. Tour the Madura Strait: Experience a traditional fishing boat tour or visit the beautiful islands nearby like Pulau Suro and Pulau Bali.
  2. Visit Local Markets: Explore vibrant markets like Pasar Pagi, Pasar Badja Market, and Pasar Aman in Glodok for local food, souvenirs, and daily life experiences.
  3. Attend Cultural Events: Check out the calendar for traditional Javanese performances such as Wayang Golek and Gamelan music.

Where to Eat 🍴

  1. Sop Buntut Senggoeng: Famous for its oxtail soup, a Surabaya delicacy.
  2. Gudeg Yu Djum: Try this traditional Javanese dish made from young jackfruit cooked in coconut milk and palm sugar.
  3. Restaurant Rumah Makan Minang: Indulge in authentic Minangkabau cuisine, one of the richest and most flavorful Indonesian cuisines.
  4. Warung Bebek Pak Koto: A popular spot for crispy duck dishes.
  5. Kopi Padi: A cozy cafe offering local coffee and pastries in a traditional setting.

Where to Stay 🏨

  1. Grand Mutiara Hotel Surabaya: Luxury hotel offering modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options.
  2. Ibis Styles Surabaya City Center: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and convenient city location.
  3. Hotel Santika Premier Surabaya: Mid-range hotel with a variety of amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and restaurant.

Things to Know 🤔

  1. Language: While Bahasa Indonesia is the national language, many people in Surabaya speak Javanese and English.
  2. Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.
  3. Transportation: Taxis, Grab (ride-hailing app), angkots (minibuses), and TransJakarta buses are available for transportation around the city.
  4. Etiquette: Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a religious building. Handshakes are common among men; women can either shake hands or opt for a light hug or bow.
  5. Tipping: Tipping is not expected but appreciated, especially in upscale restaurants and hotels.

Tips 💡

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration due to the tropical climate.
  2. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and the locals.
  3. Plan Ahead: Check the opening hours of attractions, markets, and restaurants before visiting, as schedules can vary.
  4. Stay Safe: Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
  5. Embrace the Experience: Surabaya offers a unique blend of modernity, tradition, and warm-hearted hospitality. Embrace the experience to create unforgettable memories! 🇮🇩❤️