Travel Guide for Surabaya

Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city, is located on the northeastern coast of Java. Known as the “City of Heroes,” it boasts a rich history from its role in Indonesia’s independence. The city’s vibrant culture mixes old traditions with modern attractions.

In late June, Surabaya enjoys warm, mostly dry weather—perfect for family outings. Enjoy a stroll at Taman Bungkul park, explore the Surabaya Zoo, and visit House of Sampoerna Museum for interactive exhibitions. With affordable dining and family-friendly spots, Surabaya offers memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

Surabaya is easily reached by air, with Juanda International Airport serving both domestic and international flights. Families on a budget can often find affordable flights from Jakarta, Bali, or Singapore. Taxis and ride-hailing services make getting from the airport to the city convenient.

Traveling by train is a comfortable and scenic option from major cities like Jakarta or Yogyakarta, with several daily departures. Long-distance buses also connect Surabaya to other cities in Java, offering an economical choice. Weather in late June is typically dry, so travel disruptions are rare; however, it’s wise to book tickets early during school holidays.

Surabaya has a tropical climate, marked by a hot, humid atmosphere year-round. Temperatures usually range from 26°C to 34°C (79°F to 93°F), with high humidity making it feel warmer. The city experiences two main seasons: the wet season (November to April) brings heavy rainfall, while the dry season (May to October) features sunnier, drier days.

From June 27 to June 29, you can expect Surabaya’s typical dry season weather—generally sunny or partly cloudy, warm, and not much rain, which is ideal for family activities, sightseeing, and tours. Extreme weather is rare during this period, but bring sun protection and stay hydrated as midday heat can be intense.

Surabaya offers a range of family-friendly hotels in the city center, such as Hotel Majapahit and Bumi Surabaya City Resort, both praised for their comfort and historic charm. Midtown and Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers are also popular for their convenient locations near malls and attractions. Apartments like Ascott Waterplace and Puncak Permai are great for families seeking extra space and a kitchen.

If you prefer a cozy apartment or a house, check Airbnb and Booking.com for options in secure neighborhoods like Darmo and Citraland, which are well-connected yet quiet. For June 27–29, book early to avoid rising prices, as local events or school holidays might increase demand. Many accommodations offer family rooms or child-friendly amenities, so filter for these features when booking.

Surabaya’s cuisine is a treat for families, with famous dishes like rawon (black beef soup), lontong balap (rice cake with bean sprouts), and rujak cingur (vegetable and fruit salad with beef snout). Try local favorites at Depot Bu Rudy for spicy sambal and warungs at Pasar Atom or Jalan Raya Darmo for affordable, authentic eats.

For family-friendly dining, visit Boncafe for great Indonesian and Western food, or the Surabaya Town Square area for a variety of restaurants and laid-back cafes. Many cafes offer kid-friendly menus and Indonesian-style drinks like es campur and kopi tubruk. Alcohol is available but not common in most local eateries; look to hotels or Western bars for it.

Tipping isn’t mandatory as many places include service charges, but rounding up your bill or giving small change is appreciated. Halal food is easy to find; vegetarian options can be limited, so ask staff for guidance. Food allergies may require extra caution—bring allergy cards in Bahasa Indonesia to help communicate your needs.

Surabaya is ideal for family-friendly sightseeing with historical landmarks and fun attractions. Visit the House of Sampoerna Museum to learn about the city’s heritage, then explore the vibrant Surabaya Zoo, home to various animals and lush gardens. Taman Bungkul offers outdoor spaces for relaxing or picnicking while kids play in well-maintained playgrounds.

Take an educational tour at Heroes Monument, where you’ll discover Surabaya’s role in Indonesia’s history. For a unique experience, stroll along the historic Arab Quarter (Ampel) or ride the Surabaya Heritage Track to see colorful neighborhoods. These activities offer engaging experiences the whole family can enjoy year-round, with plenty of local food and photo spots.