By Surabaya, the bustling metropolis of Indonesia’s East Java province, is renowned for its cultural heritage and historical significance. It offers a unique blend of modern living and tradition, while rich in history and interesting sights. Surabaya is not only Indonesia’s second largest city, but also a place where visitors can gain insight into the country’s past and present.
History
Surabaya’s history dates back to the 13th century, when it became one of the most important port cities of the Majapahit Empire. According to legend, it takes its name from the mythical battle between a shark (‘sura’) and a crocodile (‘baya’), which is still the symbol of the city today. Surabaya played a key role in the Indonesian struggle for independence, particularly during the ‘November 10 Struggle’ of 1945, when the city’s inhabitants fought for Indonesian independence against the Dutch.
Language: The official language of Indonesia is Indonesian.
Currency: The currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian rupiah.
Credit cards and ATMs: You can pay with your credit card in upscale restaurants and hotels in tourist areas. However, if you go shopping in local markets, vendors will only accept cash.
Attractions not to be missed
Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan) – A monument to the heroes of the Indonesian War of Independence, which attracts visitors with its impressive size and historical significance.
House of Sampoerna – The rich history of Indonesia’s most famous cigarette brand. Ask for a guided tour of the factory to learn about the cigarette-making process and the history of the brand, or simply wander through the galleries and immerse yourself in Surabaya’s culture. Don’t forget to try some local kretek cigarettes!
Taman Bingkul Park: atranquil oasis in the heart of Surabaya. Take a leisurely stroll along the lush greenery-lined paths and admire the beautiful flowers and ornamental plants. The park is also a popular place for jogging, cycling and picnicking.
Kalimas River Boat Tour: a river tour takes you through the heart of Surabaya and allows you to witness the city’s bustling lifestyle from a new perspective. Don’t forget to take some photos of the beautiful scenery along the way.
Suramadu Bridge – Suramadu Bridge is Indonesia’s longest cable-stayed bridge, spanning 5.4 km across the Madurai Strait. The bridge takes you to Bangkalan, in the heart of Madura Island, where you can admire the natural panorama and delicious Madurai cuisine.
Mount Bromo. Sunrise here is not just a sight to behold, it is an experience of a lifetime as the golden lights slowly hug the rim of the volcano. And the stunning lunar landscape of the Tengger caldera makes you feel as if you have stepped into another world.
Surabaya sunrise or sunset mount Bromo
Tumpak Sewu Falls: an unmissable tourist attraction in Surabaya. It is famous for its unique formation that resembles a curtain of water. Its name „thousand” comes from the number of falls within the area. The waterfall is located at the foot of Mount Kendeng, where it flows into the Madura Gorge. As you walk through the jungle to get there, you are surrounded by lush vegetation that makes you feel as if you have stepped out of ancient times.
Tip: Surabaya malang tumpak sewu Bromo ijen drop Bali
Specials
Surabaya’s cuisine offers special local flavours, including the famous rawon, a black beef soup made with a nut called kluwek. The city is also famous for its rujak cingur salad, an exotic salad made from a variety of fruits and pickled vegetables, topped with special sauces.
Interesting facts
Surabaya is famous not only for its history and modern attractions, but also for being one of the busiest seaports in the world. The city also boasts the Submarine Monument (Monumen Kapal Selam), a fully preserved submarine that can be visited as a museum today.
Indonesia is known for its delicious coffee, and Surabaya is home to some of the country’s best coffee shops. Get a taste of Surabaya’s coffee world in your home by buying a bag of local coffee beans. Try Kapal Api Global Cafe’s blends and bring home your favourite. Learn about Indonesia’s unique coffee and history on our blog! Discover famous varieties and the country’s unique coffee culture. Java, Sumatra, Bali discovoer the best Coffees in Indonesia
Surabaya is a city where past and present live together in perfect harmony. Historical monuments and modern infrastructure make the city attractive, while the location is a perfect combination of history and modernity.