Introduction: Why Surabaya?
When most travelers think about East Java, they imagine Mount Bromo’s sunrise or the blue fire of Ijen Crater. But before heading to these natural wonders, many journeys begin in Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city and the gateway to East Java.
Known as the City of Heroes (Kota Pahlawan), Surabaya offers more than just a transit hub. It is a city where history, culture, modern lifestyle, and culinary delights blend together, making it a perfect stop before or after your Bromo and Ijen adventure.
Here are the 8 best things to do in Surabaya to make the most of your visit.
1. 🏛 Explore Tugu Pahlawan (Heroes Monument)
No trip to Surabaya is complete without visiting the Tugu Pahlawan, the city’s most iconic landmark.
- Built to honor Indonesia’s independence fighters during the Battle of Surabaya (1945).
- Inside the complex, you’ll find the 10 November Museum with photos, dioramas, and war artifacts.
- A must for history lovers who want to understand why Surabaya is called the City of Heroes.
👉 Best time to visit: Morning, to avoid the heat.
2. 🕌 Visit the Majestic Al-Akbar Mosque (Masjid Agung Surabaya)
The Al-Akbar Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Surabaya, is one of the largest in Indonesia.
- Stunning green-blue dome and towering minarets.
- You can go up the tower viewpoint to see Surabaya’s skyline.
- Beautiful spot for architecture and cultural photography.
👉 Tip: Dress modestly and visit during non-prayer times for a peaceful experience.
3. 🚢 Experience Maritime History at Surabaya Submarine Monument (Monkasel)
Located on the banks of the Kalimas River, the Monkasel (Monumen Kapal Selam) is actually a real submarine, KRI Pasopati 410, built in the Soviet Union.
- Visitors can explore the inside of the submarine.
- Learn about Indonesia’s naval history during the Cold War era.
- Family-friendly attraction, especially for kids.
👉 Fun fact: Surabaya has long been a naval base city, and this museum reflects its maritime spirit.
4. 🎨 Explore House of Sampoerna Museum
One of Surabaya’s most unique attractions is the House of Sampoerna, a museum inside a preserved Dutch colonial building.
- Originally built as an orphanage in 1862, later became the home of Indonesia’s famous Sampoerna cigarette company.
- Visitors can see women hand-rolling clove cigarettes with incredible speed.
- Exhibits about Surabaya’s history and industrial heritage.
- A free shuttle bus is available from the museum to explore Surabaya’s historical districts.
👉 Great place for heritage lovers, photographers, and culture seekers.
5. 🌿 Relax at Taman Bungkul Park
If you want to see the daily life of Surabaya’s locals, head to Taman Bungkul, the city’s most popular urban park.
- Jogging tracks, skate park, and food stalls.
- Awarded as one of the best urban parks in Asia by the UN in 2013.
- Bustling in the evenings with street food vendors.
👉 Perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
6. 🛍 Shop and Eat at Surabaya’s Famous Malls
Surabaya is known as a shopping paradise in East Java. The city has some of the biggest and most luxurious malls in Indonesia.
- Tunjungan Plaza → One of the largest shopping centers in Southeast Asia.
- Galaxy Mall → Modern design, popular among young locals.
- Pakuwon Mall → Huge variety of restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment.
👉 Don’t miss the chance to try Surabaya’s legendary street food inside and outside these malls:
- Rawon Setan (Devil’s Rawon) → beef black soup with rice.
- Lontong Balap → rice cakes with tofu, sprouts, and savory broth.
- Rujak Cingur → unique salad with fermented shrimp paste sauce.
7. 🌅 Sunset at Kenjeran Beach and Surabaya Bridge
For a relaxing escape within the city, head to the Kenjeran Beach area.
- Visit the Suramadu Bridge (connecting Surabaya and Madura Island).
- Beautiful during sunset with city lights reflecting on the water.
- Nearby you can also see the CETC Pagoda (Chinese temple with 9 stories) for photography.
👉 This is a great prelude if you plan to extend your journey to Madura Island.
8. 🚂 Day Trips from Surabaya (Bromo, Ijen & Madura)
Surabaya is not just a destination in itself but also the main gateway to East Java’s greatest attractions.
- Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour → 3–4 hours from Surabaya, perfect for overnight or 2D1N trips.
- Ijen Crater (Blue Fire) → Around 6–7 hours drive, best for 2–3 day tours.
- Madura Island → Just across Suramadu Bridge, famous for keris makers, bull races (Karapan Sapi), and Gili Labak Island snorkeling.
👉 Many travelers book a Bromo Ijen tour package starting from Surabaya, making it the most strategic city to begin your East Java adventure.
Practical Travel Tips for Surabaya
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (May–October) for clear skies and outdoor activities.
- Getting Around: Use Grab/Gojek apps, or rent a car with a driver.
- Accommodation: Ranges from budget hostels near Gubeng Station to luxury hotels like Sheraton or JW Marriott.
- Local Etiquette: Friendly city, but modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites.
Conclusion: Surabaya, More Than Just a Gateway
While many travelers see Surabaya as just a starting point for Bromo and Ijen tours, the city itself offers fascinating attractions, rich history, and vibrant culture worth exploring.
From the Heroes Monument and House of Sampoerna to the sunset at Kenjeran Beach, Surabaya provides a balanced mix of heritage, modern lifestyle, and culinary adventure.
👉 Whether you’re here for a Surabaya city tour or as part of a Bromo Ijen package, don’t miss the chance to discover Indonesia’s City of Heroes.