Surabaya Trips & Tours

Enjoy the colourful streets, culture and history of Indonesia’s second-largest city.

The capital of East Java, Surabaya doesn’t look like much from the outset, but spend a little time here and you’ll find the magic. Firstly, it’s definitely one of the more pleasant urban centres in Indonesia and there are pretty, tree-lined streets and (relatively!) orderly traffic. Towards the port, things get a little more characterful, and in the north, the Arab and Chinese Quarters are fascinating. Known as Ampel, the Arab Quarter is centred around the mosque and tomb of Sunan Ampel, said to have spread Islam in Java, and in the Chinese Quarter, you’ll find old temples, shrines and the House of Sampoerna, a small museum showcasing the art of hand-rolled clove kretek (cigarettes). Get around by rickshaw, shop in the intoxicating Pasar Pabean market, and stop to look at the Sura and Baya monuments that depict a shark and a crocodile fighting for supremacy and said to symbolise Surabaya’s strength.

Things to do

What to do in Surabaya

Take a private heritage tour of the city, visiting landmarks like the House of Sampoerna, a historic cigarette factory, and the Heroes Monument. For a taste of local flavors, embark on a food tour through Surabaya’s vibrant markets and street food stalls. Discover the city’s colonial architecture with a guided walk through the old town, or take a private boat cruise along the Kalimas River for a different perspective of the city. In the evening, enjoy fine dining at one of Surabaya’s luxury restaurants, offering modern Indonesian cuisine with panoramic views of the city.

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