Surabaya | Explore the Passionate Capital of Java

Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city, is located on the northeastern coast of Java. With an average temperature of 27°C year-round, it enjoys a tropical climate and is full of cultural charm. Follow this guide to embark on a wonderful journey through Surabaya. Itinerary Day 1: First Impressions of the City - Surabaya Town Hall (9:00 - 11:00): This castle, which blends Dutch, Chinese, and Javanese architectural styles, bears the memories of colonial times. Stepping inside is like traveling through time, where you can see ancient buildings, authentic souvenir shops, and experience the collision of diverse cultures. - Arab Street (11:30 - 13:00): The streets are filled with the aroma of spices and coffee, and the shops are full of exquisite carpets, spices, traditional clothing, and more. When you're tired of shopping, find a small shop to sit down and enjoy Middle Eastern specialties such as kebabs and falafel. - Heroes Monument Park (13:30 - 16:00): The park is shaded by trees, and the monument stands solemnly in commemoration of the heroes of the Indonesian War of Independence. Strolling through the park, you can learn about Indonesian history and see locals relaxing and enjoying themselves, experiencing the local life. - Surabaya Chinatown (17:00 - 20:00): Filled with Chinese-style arches and red lanterns, the aroma of familiar dishes wafts from the roadside restaurants. Enjoy Indonesian-style Chinese food, such as Padang beef and Indonesian fried noodles, paired with fresh juice to satisfy your taste buds. Day 2: A Blend of Nature and Culture - Surabaya Zoo (9:00 - 12:00): One of the largest zoos in Indonesia, home to rare animals such as Komodo dragons and Javan tigers (although difficult to see). The zoo is surrounded by lush greenery, allowing you to get close to nature and watch educational animal shows. - Grahadi Building (13:00 - 15:00): An ancient Dutch castle with simple architecture and beautiful surrounding scenery. Climb the castle to overlook the city and learn about Dutch colonial history. - Submarine Monument (15:30 - 17:00): A museum converted from a retired submarine. Explore the interior to discover the submarine's structure and living facilities, and learn about the development of the Indonesian Navy. Day 3: Volcanic Adventure - Mount Bromo (Full Day): Depart in the early morning for a 2-hour drive. Climb to the viewing platform to watch the sunrise, where the crater is dyed orange-red by the morning light, and the sea of clouds churns like a fairyland 🌅. Then ride a horse up the mountain to experience the charm of the volcano up close, with the volcanic ash and lava formations leaving a lasting impression. Remember to dress warmly, as the temperature on the mountain is low. Food Recommendations - Padang Beef: Tender beef stewed with rich spices, spicy and satisfying, a representative of Indonesian cuisine. - Indonesian Satay: Marinated skewers of meat, grilled over charcoal, brushed with sweet soy sauce, tender and juicy. - Gado-gado: Vegetable salad, a mix of various vegetables, tofu, and peanut sauce, refreshing, and nutritious. - Es Teler: A special shaved ice dessert with red beans, coconut milk, fruit, and more, icy and sweet, a must-have for cooling off. Important Notes - Visa: Check visa policies in advance. You can apply for a visa on arrival or an e-visa. Prepare your passport, photos, and other required documents. - Transportation: Public transportation, taxis, and ride-hailing services are available within the city. Choose reputable taxi companies to avoid being overcharged. For Mount Bromo, you can join a tour group or hire a car. - Language: Indonesian is the official language. Some people speak English. Learning some basic Indonesian phrases will be helpful for communication. - Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is used. You can exchange currency at the airport, banks, and exchange offices. Some businesses also accept US dollars. - Climate: Hot year-round. Take sun protection and mosquito repellent measures. Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Bring warm clothing for the volcano trip. - Religion: The majority of Indonesians are Muslim. Respect religious customs. Dress appropriately when entering mosques.