Explore Surabaya

Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city and the capital of East Java, is a bustling metropolis with a proud revolutionary spirit and a deep connection to the country’s struggle for independence. Often referred to as the “City of Heroes,” Surabaya combines modern development with traditional markets, colonial landmarks, and strong Javanese cultural roots. It serves as a key business hub while offering travelers a taste of authentic urban Indonesia.

Start your visit in the old city area, where Dutch colonial buildings line the Kalimas River. The House of Sampoerna, a beautifully preserved cigarette factory-turned-museum, offers insights into Java’s industrial past and elegant architecture. The red bridge (Jembatan Merah), once a battleground during Indonesia’s independence movement, is a symbol of local resilience.

For a glimpse of spiritual and architectural grandeur, visit the Al-Akbar Mosque—one of the largest in Southeast Asia—or the Cheng Hoo Mosque, which blends Islamic and Chinese styles. Surabaya also celebrates its multicultural roots in areas like Kampung Arab and Kampung Cina, where narrow alleyways lead to shops, food stalls, and vibrant communities.

The city is well known for its culinary strength—rawon (black beef soup), rujak cingur (spicy salad with beef snout), and lontong balap (rice cake with bean sprouts) are local specialties. Food courts and night markets buzz with energy, offering flavors that reflect the diversity of East Java.

Surabaya also serves as a gateway to Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater—two of Java’s most iconic volcanic adventures. While often overshadowed by Jakarta or Bali, Surabaya’s gritty charm, history, and hospitality make it a city well worth discovering.