3-Day Surabaya, Indonesia Travel Itinerary
Introduction:
Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. This three-day itinerary will help you explore Surabaya’s top attractions, hidden gems, and local flavors, ensuring a memorable visit to this dynamic city.
Places to Visit:
- House of Sampoerna: A museum and cigarette factory showcasing the history of the Sampoerna family and their famous kretek cigarettes.
- Surabaya Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam): An actual Russian submarine turned into a museum, offering a glimpse into Indonesia’s naval history.
- Tugu Pahlawan (Heroes Monument): A landmark dedicated to the heroes of Indonesia’s independence struggle, with an adjacent museum.
- Suramadu Bridge: The longest bridge in Indonesia, connecting Surabaya and Madura Island.
- Sunan Ampel Great Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Indonesia, located in the historic Arab quarter.
- Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque: A unique mosque with Chinese architectural influences.
- Kenjeran Beach: A popular seaside destination with stunning views and recreational activities.
- Surabaya Zoo: One of the oldest and largest zoos in Southeast Asia.
- Jalan Tunjungan: A historic street known for its colonial-era buildings and vibrant shopping scene.
- Taman Bungkul: A lively urban park perfect for relaxation and people-watching.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the House of Sampoerna. Spend a few hours exploring the museum and learning about the history of the Sampoerna family.
- Mid-Morning: Head to the Surabaya Submarine Monument. Take a tour of the submarine and learn about Indonesia’s naval history.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant near Tugu Pahlawan. After lunch, visit the Heroes Monument and the museum to understand the city’s role in Indonesia’s independence.
- Evening: Visit the Ampel Mosque in the historic Arab quarter. Enjoy the unique architecture and atmosphere, and have dinner at a nearby Middle Eastern restaurant.
Day 2: Modern Attractions and Natural Beauty
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Suramadu Bridge. Take a drive across the bridge and enjoy the scenic views of the Madura Strait.
- Mid-Morning: Visit the Cheng Hoo Mosque. Admire the unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant at Kenjeran Beach. After lunch, relax on the beach or take part in water sports and other recreational activities.
- Evening: Return to the city center and visit Jalan Tunjungan. Explore the historic buildings, enjoy shopping, and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Family Fun and Relaxation
- Morning: Visit the Surabaya Zoo. Spend a few hours exploring the exhibits and learning about the diverse animal species.
- Mid-Morning: Head to Taman Bungkul. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the park, participate in outdoor activities, and have a picnic lunch.
- Afternoon: Visit local markets for some last-minute shopping and souvenirs. Explore the vibrant stalls and try some local street food.
- Evening: End your trip with a relaxing dinner at a top-rated restaurant in the city center, enjoying local delicacies and reflecting on your trip.
See Itinerary Map (Includes Places to Visit and Accommodations)
Best Time To Go:
The best time to visit Surabaya is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. This period offers clear skies and lower humidity, ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city.
Activities To Do:
- Local Cuisine: Try Surabaya’s famous dishes like rawon (beef soup), sate klopo (coconut satay), and rujak cingur (spicy fruit salad).
- Shopping: Explore local markets like Pasar Atum and Pasar Genteng for traditional crafts, batik, and souvenirs.
- Nightlife: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at popular spots like G-Walk and Surabaya Town Square.
- Street Art: Discover the city’s street art scene, especially in areas like Jalan Kembang Jepun and Jalan Pahlawan.
- Nature: Experience the magical Bromo sunrise and explore the active Bromo crater, complemented by the stunning landscape of Mount Batok and Mount Semeru.
Accommodations:
- Shangri-La Hotel Surabaya: A luxury hotel with modern amenities and excellent service.
- Hotel Majapahit Surabaya MGallery: A historic hotel with colonial-era charm and elegant rooms.
- JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya: Offering stylish accommodations and a central location.
- Bumi Surabaya City Resort: A resort-style hotel with lush gardens and spacious rooms.
- Novotel Samator Surabaya Timur: A contemporary hotel with convenient access to major attractions.
Transportation Options:
- Buses: The city has an extensive bus network that covers most areas.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Grab and Gojek are readily available.
- Motorbike Rentals: Rent a motorbike to explore the city at your own pace.
- Trains: Surabaya is well-connected by train to other major cities in Indonesia.
- Becak: Traditional three-wheeled cycle rickshaws are available for short trips within the city.
Tips:
- Advance Booking: Book tickets for popular attractions and performances in advance to avoid long queues.
- Public Transport Pass: Consider purchasing a public transport pass for unlimited travel on buses and trains.
- Weather Preparedness: Surabaya can be hot and humid, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
- Local Etiquette: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Explore on Foot: Many of Surabaya’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. Wear comfortable shoes and explore the city on foot.
This detailed itinerary ensures you make the most of your three days in Surabaya, experiencing its rich culture, history, and vibrant city life.
