The Essential List of Things to do in Surabaya

So you’ve had enough time to work on your travel schedule and you are convinced that it’s now the right time to tour Surabaya? Congrats on making such a rewarding decision. Surabaya has been receiving visitors from all corners of the world for a number of reasons. The place does not in any way compare to any tourist destination you may have toured recently – It’s unique in its offering and this is perhaps the reason why you want a visit.

We understand that when you come to Surabaya you need to capture only the best part of it. But how do you make that possible considering that you could be a newbie coming to Surabaya for the first time? Well, let’s help you. We’ve been to Surabaya before and hence we know some of the things that you can’t afford to miss when you finally land here. Below is a list of the most fascinating tourist destinations in Surabaya – make sure you don’t miss a chance to witness them! 

Top 10 Things To Do In Surabaya

1.The Bromo Midnight Tour

Whether you are coming to Surabaya for the first time or returning for another visit, your first consideration should be the Bromo Midnight Tour. If you’ve never had a chance to witness an active volcano then you should not miss out on this trip. Bromo is known as one of the most active volcanoes in the world and has been among the most fascinating attractions in this region. As you prepare your to do lists in Surabaya, ensure you don’t skip this place – it’s worth everything!

2.Sampoerna Museum

Whereas you may have visited so many museums in the world, I’m not so sure whether you have seen a museum similar to Sampoerna Museum. This is one of a kind as it’s a museum and a cigarette factory simultaneously. When you go to this museum, you will learn more about the company – you will know why it’s a museum and a cigarette factory at the same time. The museum, having been laid down amid the colonial era is a historical one. It features old photos, family collections, etc. While touring the museum, you will learn more regarding how the company has begun and how it has developed over time. You will love the fact that the museum, Sampoerna Museum offers free bus rides in areas around Surabaya.

3.Try Traditional Street Food

Food is not a big issue in Surabaya. There are a lot of delicacies to try out here. As you walk around the streets, you will come across coffee cafes, roadside hotels, food kiosks, restaurants, etc. Your main work will be to sport the best joint where you’ll enjoy some local delicious. If you’re stranded or don’t have much time to research, visit Kartiko – it’s famous for traditional food. 

4.Madura

Madura is one of the hottest spots to visit between July and August. Amid this season, the people in Madura hold bull races to celebrate the harvest of rice. If you are in Surabaya, driving to Madurai is just a 3-to-4-hour drive. The bull races you will witness here are not only unique but also unusual.

Make sure you don’t miss a chance to see this fun. Bring a camera and come in a group for maximum fun.

5.Saramadu National Bridge

This is one of the wonders not only in Surabaya but also in the entire southeast Asia region. It’s the only bridge that links Surabaya to an island – Madura. You will cross this bridge when visiting Madura from Surabaya – may be to witness the bull races held amid July to August. 

6.Go to Surabaya Monuments

Surabaya’s emblem features a whale and a crocodile. Its name is derived from two words – Sura and Baya. The whale is the Sura in Sanskrit words and Baya is the Crocodile. These two animals are symbolic as they stand for peace and war. Go to this place and learn more regarding its history. Make sure you have a way of recording the entire event here as you will never want to lose this memory. It a good place for photography – come with your family, friends, relatives, workmates, etc. 

7.Cheng Hoo Mosque

There are very many Chinese Indonesians in Surabaya. Most of them are believed to have entered the city as traders. The mosque – Cheng Hoo Mosque is one of the testaments that will tell more regarding the Chinese culture and how it has evolved with time. History lovers would supposedly not imagine missing out on Cheng Hoo Mosque.

8.Taste Tea at Majapahit Hotel

As you continue with your tour in Surabaya, a point will come when you will want to eat or drink something (you can’t be a robot to visit all these places without consuming something. Majapahit Hotel is situated in a colonial building – the building dates back to the early 1910s. Old as it is, you will be amazed to find that it still retains its original appeal. Tea is served between 2-6 PM – don’t be late.

9.Taman Bungkul

Do you need some greenery while in Surabaya? Then why not go to Taman Bungkul? This is one of the most historical parks in Surabaya so never miss out a chance to visit. It’s situated in close proximity to Shangri-La Hotel and is open any time of the day you wish to visit. Couples love to come here in the evening – so it’s a good and safe place to come with your family. The park is good for a walk, biking, running, kid to play, skating etc.

10.Persebaya Game

Are you a soccer fanatic? If your answer to this question is affirmative, then you will want to witness the Persebaya Game. Persebaya is a football club that is the talk of the town. They boast of a stadium with a capacity of up to 50,000 individuals. If you are a gambling addict you could have a chance to make some real cash as you watch. Persebaya FC is notorious for winning almost all their home games. 

The Bottom Line

The above are some places you should never want to miss whenever you visit Surabaya. Book your flight while you still have time. Visit Cathay Pacific website for more Surabaya travel information.