Surabaya Metropolitan Area Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Surabaya Metropolitan Area with this comprehensive travel guide which includes places to visit, things to do, where to stay, food and drink scene, and more!


Located in East Java, Indonesia, Surabaya Metropolitan Area is a bustling region known for its mix of modernity and tradition. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions, making it the perfect destination for solo travelers, couples and families.

Introduction to Surabaya Metropolitan Area

Surabaya Metropolitan Area is the second-largest city in Indonesia and a hub for business, culture, and education in East Java. The city is home to over 3 million people, making it the 11th most populous city in Indonesia. Surabaya has a rich history as a trading hub that dates back to the 14th century. The city also played a significant role in Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Today, Surabaya is a modern city that’s full of life, diversity and rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Surabaya Metropolitan Area

Surabaya Metropolitan Area is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Here are some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum Mpu Tantular is a historical museum featuring East Java’s culture, including costumes, literature, wood carvings among others.
  • Cheng Hoo Mosque is a Chinese-style mosque in the middle of Surabaya’s Arab Quarter.
  • Joko Dolog Statue is a famous statue depicting a man lounging in front of the Grahadi State Building, which served as the governor’s residence during the Dutch colonial period.

Natural Attractions of Surabaya Metropolitan Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bungkul Park is a beautiful park that provides a scenic view of the city. It’s great for picnics or a morning jog.
  • Taman Flora Surabaya is a large botanical garden with exotic plant species, small lakes and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Surabaya Metropolitan Area

Surabaya Metropolitan Area offers several great hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Gunung Bromo is the nearest hiking spot from Surabaya Metropolitan Area, known for its stunning sunrise view.
  • Coban Rondo Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall in Batu Malang, offering excellent trekking/hiking routes.
  • Treetop Adventure Park is an exciting adventure park that offers several hiking/biking trails for visitors.

Best Things to Do in Surabaya Metropolitan Area: Activities and Tours

Surabaya Metropolitan Area is rich in activities and tours that visitors can indulge in:

  • The House of Sampoerna offers visitors an insight into the production process of Sampoerna clove cigarettes.
  • Suramadu National Bridge is a 5.5 km-long toll bridge that connects Surabaya to nearby Madura Island.
  • Surabaya Night Market is a famous market where you can find a wide selection of local foods and souvenirs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Surabaya Metropolitan Area

Here’s a suggestion for a week-long itinerary for visitors to Surabaya Metropolitan Area:

Day Activity
1 Visit the House of Sampoerna
2 Explore Surabaya Old City and learn about Indonesian history
3 Take a trip to Mount Bromo for a sunrise view
4 Experience the city’s food scene in local markets
5 Visit the Taman Flora Surabaya Botanical Garden
6 Take a day trip to Madura Island to explore the culture
7 Relax in the Bungkul Park before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Surabaya Metropolitan Area

Indonesian cuisine is diverse and flavorsome, and Surabaya Metropolitan Area offers several local dishes and beverages that you must try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rujak Cingur is a traditional dish that comprises of vegetables, fruits, crackers, and boiled cow’s nose.

  • Rawon is a black-colored beef soup made from kluwek nut gravy and could be served with white rice and salted eggs.

Local Beverages

  • Cendol is a drink made of coconut milk, sugar, and green jelly noodles called cendol.
  • Es Dawet Telasih is made of coconut and pandan-flavored drink with a blend of aromatic jasmine flowers.

Where to Stay in Surabaya Metropolitan Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Surabaya Metropolitan Area offers a wide range of accommodations that cater to different budgets.

  • Hotel Majapahit Surabaya Managed by AccorHotels is a luxurious colonial-style hotel that offers a vintage ambience.
  • Hotel Santika Pandegiling Surabaya is an affordable hotel located in the heart of Surabaya, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Surabaya Metropolitan Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Surabaya Metropolitan Area offers a wide range of locally produced items that tourists can buy as souvenirs, including:

  • Batik Tulis is a traditional Indonesian fabric with intricate designs that could be used to make bags, clothing, and decorations.
  • Kerupuk is a famous Indonesian snack made of fish, shrimp or flour that could be fried or barbequed.

Local Culture and Customs of Surabaya Metropolitan Area

The people of Surabaya Metropolitan Area have preserved their unique Javanese culture, which visitors can experience through the city’s popular festivals, such as:

  • Bungkaran Festival is a cultural event held in Lumajang district that involves a traditional bull race.
  • Hari Raya Idul Fitri is a Muslim holiday where family and friends gather and share a meal together to break their fast from the month of Ramadan.

Best Time to Visit Surabaya Metropolitan Area

The best time to visit Surabaya Metropolitan Area is during the dry season between June and September, where you can experience sunny weather and clear skies.

Do’s and Don’ts of Surabaya Metropolitan Area

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try out the local cuisine.
  • Carry a copy of your passport and important documents at all times.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas.
  • Disrespect religious ceremonies or traditions.
  • Wear short clothing or revealing outfits in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Surabaya Metropolitan Area

Surabaya Metropolitan Area is a generally safe city with no significant security issues. It is essential to take the usual safety precautions such as avoiding dark alleys and carrying valuables. Don’t forget to take caution when trying street food.

Health in Surabaya Metropolitan Area

It’s essential to have proper vaccinations before traveling to Surabaya Metropolitan Area. Visitors should ensure they have all necessary medications to prevent unfavorable outcomes in case of any medical emergency.

Getting to Surabaya Metropolitan Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Surabaya Metropolitan Area is accessible by several modes of transportation.

Airports Near Surabaya Metropolitan Area

  • Juanda International Airport is the primary airport in Surabaya Metropolitan Area, which is served by several international airlines.

Bus Stations Near Surabaya Metropolitan Area

  • Purabaya Bus Station is Surabaya’s central bus station for travel to neighboring cities.

Other Options

  • Taxis and Ride-Hailing Applications are other convenient options for traveling around the city.

How to Get Around in Surabaya Metropolitan Area

The city has a well-established transportation system for getting around. Visitors can use:

  • Taxis and Ride-hailing Applications

  • Local Buses: Visitors can take a bus tour around Surabaya to experience the city.

Where to Go Next from Surabaya Metropolitan Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are multiple destinations surrounding Surabaya Metropolitan Area that visitors can visit, such as:

  • Mount Bromo: A famous tourist spot in Eastern Java known for its stunning sunrise and exotic scenery.

  • Ijen Crater: Located in Banyuwangi, a famous sulfur mine area that attracts tourists, hikers, and adventurers.

Conclusion

Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, offers a mix of both modern and traditional cultures, making it a top tourist destination. This city has something in store for everyone, from a variety of mouth-watering dishes to breathtaking outdoor adventures. Plan your next visit to Surabaya Metropolitan Area and experience Indonesia in a new way.

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