Where to Stay in Surabaya: Best Hotels & Accommodations
Where to Stay in Surabaya
Planning a city tour Surabaya involves more than just mapping out attractions—it also means choosing the right place to stay. Surabaya, the City of Heroes, offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit every type of traveler, from luxurious five-star hotels and boutique stays to budget-friendly guesthouses. Whether you’re here for history, culinary adventures, shopping, or a gateway to Mount Bromo, the right accommodation will make your trip seamless and enjoyable. This guide breaks down the best areas and hotel options in Surabaya so you can find the perfect place to rest after exploring the city.
Why Your Choice of Accommodation Matters in a City Tour Surabaya
A well-planned stay allows you to maximize your time. Surabaya is a large and bustling city, and staying close to the attractions or districts you plan to visit will save you hours in traffic. For example, staying near Tunjungan Plaza puts you close to modern lifestyle hubs, while accommodations in North Surabaya bring you closer to Old Town, Chinatown, and heritage sites. Selecting the right hotel also enhances your cultural experience, as many accommodations offer local flavors, hospitality, and even city tour packages.
Best Areas to Stay in Surabaya
1. Central Surabaya – For First-Time Visitors
Central Surabaya is home to Tunjungan Plaza, one of Indonesia’s largest malls, as well as business centers and upscale hotels. It’s perfect for those who want convenience and access to both modern and historic attractions.
- Luxury: Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers – Offers five-star luxury with direct access to Tunjungan Plaza, a pool, and a spa.
- Mid-range: Hotel Majapahit – A heritage hotel dating back to 1910, famous for its colonial architecture and role in Indonesia’s independence history. Staying here feels like sleeping in a living museum.
- Budget: POP! Hotel Stasiun Kota – Affordable, clean, and located near Surabaya’s central train station.
This area is a great base for a city tour Surabaya, especially if your itinerary includes shopping, museums, and nightlife.
2. North Surabaya – For History Enthusiasts
North Surabaya is where you’ll find Kota Tua (Old Town), Chinatown, and the historic Jembatan Merah bridge. Staying here immerses you in Surabaya’s heritage atmosphere.
- Luxury: JW Marriott Surabaya – Though technically near the center, it provides easy access to heritage areas with luxurious comfort.
- Mid-range: Swiss-Belinn Tunjungan – Combines modern amenities with close proximity to historical landmarks.
- Budget: Kokoon Hotel Surabaya – A boutique-style hotel in an old building with restored colonial charm.
For travelers on a city tour Surabaya focusing on history, this area makes every landmark just a short ride away.
3. South Surabaya – For Relaxation & Local Lifestyle
South Surabaya is quieter and more residential, with highlights like Bungkul Park, Keputih Bamboo Forest, and many local eateries.
- Luxury: Vasa Hotel Surabaya – A five-star hotel with modern interiors and fine dining.
- Mid-range: Fairfield by Marriott Surabaya – Stylish, comfortable, and close to local parks.
- Budget: Favehotel Rungkut – Affordable with cozy facilities, located in a vibrant neighborhood.
This area is perfect if you want a more relaxed city tour Surabaya, combining nature, food, and lifestyle experiences.
4. Near Juanda International Airport – For Transit Travelers
If you’re only stopping briefly in Surabaya before heading to Bromo, Malang, or Bali, staying near the airport is practical.
- Luxury: Holiday Inn Express Surabaya Airport – Modern rooms just minutes from the airport.
- Mid-range: Hotel Tilamas – Comfortable, family-friendly, and affordable.
- Budget: Zoom Smart Hotel – Simple, convenient, and close to the airport.
These hotels are ideal for travelers catching early flights or those on tight schedules for their city tour Surabaya and beyond.
Types of Accommodations in Surabaya
- Luxury Hotels: World-class facilities, rooftop pools, spas, and fine dining. Perfect for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.
- Boutique Hotels: Offer unique design and personalized service, often with historical or cultural touches.
- Business Hotels: Cater to corporate visitors but also serve tourists with excellent amenities.
- Budget Hotels & Hostels: Affordable options for backpackers or short stays, often with strategic locations near train stations or malls.
- Homestays & Guesthouses: Great for cultural immersion and budget-friendly lodging.
No matter your choice, you’ll find accommodations that complement your city tour Surabaya itinerary.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hotel in Surabaya
- Plan Around Your Itinerary: Choose a location that reduces travel time between attractions.
- Check Accessibility: Surabaya traffic can be heavy, so proximity to public transport or main roads is crucial.
- Look for City Tour Packages: Some hotels collaborate with local agencies to offer half-day or full-day city tour Surabaya deals.
- Consider Food Options: Staying near culinary hotspots makes it easy to enjoy Surabaya’s street food scene.
- Balance Budget & Comfort: Surabaya offers excellent mid-range options that give both affordability and convenience.
Conclusion
Surabaya’s charm lies in its mix of history, culture, and modernity—and the same goes for its accommodation scene. From colonial-style heritage hotels like Hotel Majapahit to sleek skyscraper stays like Vasa Hotel, and from budget hostels near the train station to boutique hotels in Old Town, there’s something for every traveler.
Choosing the right place to stay enhances your city tour Surabaya, saving you time and enriching your cultural experience. Whether you want to immerse yourself in history, relax in modern comfort, or simply enjoy authentic local life, Surabaya has the perfect hotel waiting for you.