City Guide

Surabaya Travel Guide

Indonesia

5.0M
Population
$117
Daily Budget
75
Walkability
MEDIUM
Safety

Interactive Map

All POIs
Top Picks
Free Entry
Family-Friendly

Plan your arrival in Surabaya

Arriving

  • Juanda International Airport · 20 kmTaxi and Bus
  • Main stationsGubeng Station

Staying connected

  • Coverage4G/5G · good
  • NetworksTelkomsel and XL Axiata
  • Wi-Fiwidespread
  • Suggested dataabout 1.5 GB a day
  • Weak signalCertain rural outskirts
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Useful apps

  • TransportGojek and Grab
  • Food deliveryGoFood and GrabFood
  • AttractionsTraveloka

Top Attractions

1
Tugu Pahlawan
A monument commemorating the heroes of the Indonesian revolution.
1h Free
2
Surabaya Zoo
One of the largest zoos in Southeast Asia with a variety of species.
2h $5

Best Areas to Stay

Gubeng
Centrally located with easy access to attractions.
TouristsBusiness
Kota Surabaya
Lively area with many dining and entertainment options.
FamiliesNightlife

Typical Costs (USD)

$100
Hotel/Night
$15
Meal
$3
Transport
$4
Coffee
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $52 Tourist: $117 Family: $364

* Estimated from typical costs

Local Tips

Peak Hours:7-9am, 5-7pm
Best Day:Weekdays
Custom:Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Common Mistakes
  • Not bargaining at markets
  • Underestimating traffic times

Food & Drink

Must Try:Rujak Cingur, Soto Ayam, Rawon
Vegetarian:Medium
Tap Water:Unsafe
Taman BungkulG-Walk

Getting Around

Public Transport:Good
Rideshare:Gojek, Grab
Walkability:75/100
BusBecakTaxi

Climate & Weather

Best time to visit: April, October

Warmest monthOct35°C average high
Coolest monthJul24°C average low
Wettest monthJan183 mm of rain
Driest monthAug8 mm of rain
Average daily high and low (°C) Rain
Monthly figures
MonthHigh °CLow °CRain mmRainy days
Jan33.325.218318
Feb33.225.117917
Mar33.625.316015
Apr33.725.610812
May33.625.4557
Jun33.224.8395
Jul32.824.1162
Aug33.124.181
Sep34.024.681
Oct34.825.5364
Nov34.525.88110
Dec33.625.316216

Averages for 1991–2020, not a forecast. Source: WMO climate normals (Stasiun Meteorologi Maritim Tanju, 7 km from Surabaya).

Surabaya travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Surabaya?

April and October are usually the best months to visit Surabaya. Average daytime highs range from about 33°C in July to 35°C in October.

How much does a day in Surabaya cost?

Plan from about US$52 a day on a backpacker budget to around US$117 for a typical visitor, covering accommodation, meals and local transport. These are estimates and vary by season.

How do I get around Surabaya?

Public transport includes bus, becak and taxi and is rated good. Ride-hailing is available through Gojek and Grab. Walkability scores 75/100.

Which airport serves Surabaya?

The nearest airport is Juanda International Airport, about 20 km away. Transfer options include taxi and bus.

Is Surabaya safe for tourists?

Overall safety is rated medium. Watch for overcharging for taxi rides. Areas generally considered safe include Central Surabaya and East Surabaya. Check official travel advice before you go.

How do I stay connected in Surabaya?

4G/5G coverage is provided by Telkomsel and XL Axiata, rated good. Plan for about 1.5 GB a day for maps, messaging and social media. A Indonesia travel eSIM lets you get online on arrival without buying a local SIM.

Is tap water safe to drink in Surabaya?

Tap water is generally considered unsafe. If in doubt, follow local advice or choose bottled water.

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Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.

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