🌍 Embark on a thrilling journey! Dive into Surabaya’s top 🚩 attractions and action-packed activities in Indonesia’s vivacious city 🌃✨
Located on the northeastern coast of Java, Surabaya is Indonesia’s second-largest city and the capital of East Java. It has long been an important hub for trade, culture, and history, yet often overlooked by tourists who favour Bali or Jakarta. The things to do in Surabaya are plentiful, offering visitors a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, modern attractions, and vibrant local life, making the city well worth a visit. Whether you’re drawn to its historical landmarks, culinary scene, or cultural diversity, Surabaya has something for every kind of traveller. Here’s a guide to Surabaya’s top attractions and unmissable activities.
Discover the Historical Charm of the House of Sampoerna
One of Surabaya’s most iconic attractions is the House of Sampoerna, a museum dedicated to the city’s tobacco and cigarette industry. This beautifully preserved colonial-style building, which once served as a Dutch orphanage, now offers a glimpse into the history of Indonesia’s clove cigarette, or kretek, production. Visitors can tour the museum to learn about the Sampoerna family and their role in shaping the tobacco business, as well as view live demonstrations of cigarette rolling. The museum is surrounded by a stunning garden and features a café where visitors can relax and enjoy the local atmosphere. The House of Sampoerna stands as a testament to the city’s industrial heritage, making it an essential stop for history buffs.
Immerse Yourself in History at Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan)
Surabaya is known as the “City of Heroes” due to its critical role in the Indonesian struggle for independence. A visit to the Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan) is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the city’s importance in the nation’s history. This towering obelisk, which stands at 41 meters tall, honours the soldiers and civilians who fought against the Dutch colonial forces during the Battle of Surabaya in 1945. Adjacent to the monument is the 10 November Museum, which houses artifacts, documents, and dioramas detailing the fierce battle that took place. The combination of these two sites provides a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made during Indonesia’s fight for independence.
Visit Suramadu Bridge: A Modern Marvel
For a more contemporary experience, head to Suramadu Bridge, the longest bridge in Indonesia. This impressive structure connects the island of Java with the island of Madura and stretches over 5 kilometres across the Madura Strait. It’s not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of modern Surabaya’s growth and development. Visitors can drive or walk along the bridge and take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, reflecting on the waters below. Whether you’re a fan of modern engineering or simply love scenic vistas, Suramadu Bridge is worth a visit.
Explore the Grand Mosque of Surabaya (Masjid Al-Akbar)
For those interested in religious and architectural landmarks, a visit to Masjid Al-Akbar is essential. This grand mosque is one of the largest in Indonesia, with a capacity to hold up to 30,000 worshippers. Its stunning turquoise domes and minarets dominate the skyline, while its interior features intricate tile work and a peaceful ambience. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to explore the mosque outside prayer times, offering a unique opportunity to experience Indonesia’s Islamic culture. For the best views, ascend the mosque’s minaret, which offers a panoramic view of the city. The mosque is also known for its educational and cultural programs, making it a great place to learn more about local traditions.
Discover Chinatown and the Arab Quarter
Surabaya is home to diverse ethnic communities, with two of the most vibrant being its Chinatown and Arab Quarter. In Chinatown, visitors can wander through narrow streets lined with colourful shophouses, traditional temples, and bustling markets. It’s a great place to try local delicacies like bakso (meatball soup) and nasi goreng (fried rice). The Kya-Kya Night Market, held in this area, is a popular spot to sample street food and enjoy live performances.
Meanwhile, in the Arab Quarter, you’ll find historic mosques, spice markets, and shops selling Middle Eastern goods. The atmosphere is markedly different from other parts of the city, with a strong sense of tradition and a unique blend of Indonesian and Arabic influences. Both districts offer a fascinating look into Surabaya’s multicultural fabric.
Enjoy the Culinary Delights of Surabaya
No visit to Surabaya is complete without indulging in the city’s diverse and delicious food scene. Surabaya is known for its bold and flavorful dishes, often featuring a mix of Javanese, Madurese, and Chinese influences. A must-try dish is rawon, a black beef soup made with keluak (a type of nut), which gives it a rich and earthy flavour. Another favorite is sate klopo, skewers of coconut-marinated beef or chicken, grilled to perfection.
Street food culture is vibrant in Surabaya, and you’ll find an array of stalls offering everything from lumpia (spring rolls) to tahu tek (tofu salad with peanut sauce). For a more refined dining experience, visit one of the many seafood restaurants along the coast, where you can enjoy fresh fish and shellfish while taking in the view of the sea.
Relax at Kenjeran Beach
For a more laid-back experience, head to Kenjeran Beach, located on the outskirts of Surabaya. This beach offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its calm waters and peaceful surroundings. While it’s not the best for swimming, Kenjeran Beach is a great spot for enjoying a sunset stroll or simply soaking in the ocean breeze. There are also several seafood restaurants nearby, offering fresh catches of the day.
Conclusion
Surabaya may not be as famous as Bali or Jakarta, but it’s a city rich in history, culture, and modern marvels. From historical landmarks like the House of Sampoerna and Heroes Monument to vibrant neighbourhoods like Chinatown and the Arab Quarter, Surabaya offers a unique travel experience. Combine that with its thriving food scene, beautiful mosques, and scenic spots like Suramadu Bridge and Kenjeran Beach, and you have a city that should be on every traveller’s radar.
