Top 25 Attractions in Surabaya (2024)
Surabaya is the second-largest city in Indonesian and is located in East Java. It is a business capital and is usually not tourist’s first choice when it comes to holidaying in Indonesia. However, similar to Jakarta, Surabaya has its charms, and you will love more of its nature, food and people once you get to know them more in-depth. To make the best of your trip, here is the list of the top 25 attractions you should visit while you are in Surabaya.
1. Air Terjun Grojogan Sewu ( Grojogan Sewu Waterfall)
Located not too far from Danau Katsoba, this gorgeous waterfalls stands at 81 metres high above sea level. The name Grojogan Sewu means ‘thousands of showers’ and is enveloped in the beautiful scenery; no wonder why this is a popular site among tourists. The journey to the fall is tricky and takes approximately an hours. For the best experience, we will suggest you engage a tour operator.
2. Atlantis Land
Atlantis Land is the largest waterpark in Indonesia and has a similar concept of that of Disneyland. What will captivate your attention is the giant castle that is colourfully illuminated during the night. This is an ideal place for family with so many rides and attractions all within this 15 hectares of land.
3. Hotel Majapahit
Opened in 1911, Hotel Majapahit is one of the most famous heritage buildings in Surabaya. Surrounded by a charming garden, this colonial-inspired architecture is well-maintained and furnished with a modern interior concept for the comfort of the guests. But nonetheless, you can still take a picture of this stunning architecture in the exterior.
4. Bukit Jamur Bungah (Jamur Bungah Hill)
In Bukit Jamur Bungah, you will witness 40 mushroom stones that are formed in this 4 hectares of land. The mushroom stones are created after the erosion from the rain and wind over a long period. This phenomenon only happens after the rock is being eroded by wind and sand, molding it to be what it is now . You should join a tour and see this unusual sighting.
5. Bukit Mas (Mas Hill)
Bukit Mas is a luxury housing area that is inspired by the European culture in its building architectures. If you have always wanted to see those historical buildings in the Mediterranean, this place will be able to satisfy you. Situated in a big plot of land, surrounded by nature, you will see Notre Dame Adventure Park, the Rome Colosseum, the Arc De Triomphe and many more. Though these are just building replicas, they suffice for an excellent picture.
6. Bukit Masegit (Masegit Hill)
Bukit Masegit is situated in the city of Sampang, and the journey to the site only takes 30 minutes by car. Sampang is a gorgeous city surrounded by a green landscape. Bukit Masegit is the crowd’s favourite place for hiking, and the exposed rocky cliffs allow some visitors the thrill of rock-climbing. The best time to visit this place is during the evening as the panoramic view from the top with the sun setting is lovely.
7. Bukit Pelalangan (Pelalangan Hill)
This is a mystical limestone hill that will transport you to a different world when you are there. The journey starts with you passing through limestone cliffs with jagged lines and upon reaching, you will be in awe with the series of cave inside. It is really fascinating to see the unique lines that also appears in the cave interiors and the occasional rays of light shining from the opening on top.
8. Cheng Hoo Mosque
Cheng Hoo Mosque is a mosque dedicated to the Chinese Muslim community in Surabaya. The architecture of the building resembles a Chinese Temple with arches, dragons and pagodas. As the union between Chinese and Java people are not widely accepted here in Surabaya, this building is a place for prayer and peace for those converted Chinese. It is fascinating to see the melting pot of two cultures co-existing in one place.
9. Ciputra Waterpark
Ciputra Waterpark is one of the largest waterparks in South East Asia and promises everyone here a fun-filled time. Go through a journey with Sinbad, as his tale inspired the design of the waterpark. Built on 5 hectares of land, it is easy to spend a day here as there are so many things to explore. There are many slides, but the best has to be the Roc Tower Thunder Ride; as this adrenaline-pumping ride will give you a splashing good time.
10. Dipo Lokomotif Sidotopo
Dipo Lokomotif Sidotopo is dubbed as the train graveyard. If you love trains and classic-collectables, this is the perfect place for a short sightseeing destination and photo-taking. Preferably come here in the mornings so that you won’t be scorched by the sun during midday.
11. Galaxy Mall
Galaxy Mall is one of the largest malls in Surabaya with a chain of 3 malls in one area. Galaxy Mall is a modern concept mall that is highly accessible and convenient to everyone; especially those with disabilities and those with baby prams. There are plenty of things to do here besides shopping, as there are a variety of restaurants, entertainment centres and also a cinema if you want to catch the latest movie.
12. Hutan Mangrove Wonorejo (Wonorejo Mangrove Park)
Mangrove Wonorejo Forest is a recreational mangrove area that is frequently visited by locals and tourists. In an area spanning across 200 hectares, this is a perfect place for nature lovers. You will get to learn about the plants that are grown here and its benefits. You may explore this place either by foot or better yet, rent a kayak to discover more sides to the forest.
13. House of Sampoerna
Built in 1862, House of Sampoerna is a museum and an active tobacco factory. The interesting architecture of this building is influenced by the Dutch culture resulting in its colonial design. The main entrance to the museum is a popular picture taking site as it resembles the design of a coliseum building. Within this place, you will be able to learn the history, the ingredients used and also the manufacturing processes. Within the same compound, you will also find art galleries and cafes if you would like to take a coffee-break.
14. Kodam Brawijaya Night Market
While you are in town, why not visit Kodam Brawijaya Night Market, one of the popular night markets in Surabaya. Opens daily, this night market is lively and bustling from the moment they opened till they close at 11 pm. There are a variety of local foods being sold here, and you must try out their delicious grilled seafood. You will also be able to find many trinkets and handmade crafts done by locals as souvenirs to bring home.
15. Masjid Al Akbar Surabaya (Al Akbar Surabaya Mosque)
Al Akbar Surabaya Mosque is the National Mosque situated at Easy Java. This Great Mosque can be seen from afar, built in modern architecture while still sporting a traditional turquoise dome and minarets. The mosque is open to the public, and friendly staffs will be thrilled to show visitors around the mosque area.
16. Menara Suar Sembilangan (Suar Sembilangan Tower)
Menara Suar Sembilangan is a 55 metres tall lighthouse that is situated in Madura Island. Built 135 years ago, this cast-iron structure is still functioning as a lighthouse, indicating to sailing ships where land is. You can climb up to the top of this structure and see the beautiful aerial view of the surroundings.
17. Mount Bromo
Mount Bromo is a popular attraction among tourist and locals. Famous for the sunrise views, you can engage a local tour to drop you off at the mountain site. The trail to the peak is easy and can be quite crowded on the weekends. After the sunrise, you can also trail along the crater of this active volcano for an adrenaline rush moment. The site is enormous and it is intriguing to see smoke coming out from the volcano within such as short distance.
18. Pulau Noko and Gili (Noko & Gili Islands)
Noko and Gili islands are both beautiful paradises that are situated very close to one another. Both islands boast crystal clear blue water and white beautiful sandy beaches. The place is rich with marine lives, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling and diving. If not, you can relax by the bay while enjoying some local seafood that is sold here.
19. Heroes Monument
Heroes Monument is an icon of the city and pays tribute to the fallen soldiers from the Battle of Surabaya. This monument stands at 41.15 metres tall and has a museum built on the bottom. If you would love to learn more about Surabaya history, why not visit this museum. There are plenty of knowledge, artefacts and photos that are put on display to help you visualise how it was in the past.
20. Surabaya North Quay
Located 40km away from the Surabaya town, this is a place you must visit when you are planning your itinerary. There is so much you can do here at Surabaya North Quay, from retail therapy to dinning and many beautiful places for awesome pictures. You will also get to see many big ships travelling in and out of the port as it it just situated next to the Quay.
21. Surabaya Submarine Monument
Surabaya Submarine Monument is one of the biggest submarine monuments in Asia. Located in the city centre, this submarine attracts much attention from passerbys. Perfect for families with kids, you can enter the submarine to see the control rooms, the workspaces and also the many artefacts that were left behind after Operation Trikora.
22. Surabaya Zoo
Located in the city of Surabaya, Surabaya Zoo is one of the most complete zoos in South East Asia. Spanning across 37 acres of lands, this zoo is home to 350 animal species. Within the zoo vicinity, you will also find an aquarium, but it would require you to pay a separate entrance fee.
23. Suramadu Bridge
Suramadu Bridge is the longest bridge in Indonesia that is 5.4km long. This bridge connects Surabaya to Madura Island, making it the first bridge to cross the Madura waters. This steel cable-stay bridge is held up by two towers, standing majestically at 140 metres high. This iconic bridge is beautiful during the day and more so at night when it is illuminated with colourful LED lights.
24. Taman Bungkul (Bungkul Garden)
Bungkul Garden is located in the heart of Surabaya and is one of the favourite spots for locals and tourists. Surrounded by trees, this park is equipped with many facilities such as a jogging, bike and skateboarding tracks. There place also possesses a plaza, an open stage area for performances and even a food court to satiate your hunger.
25. Tanjung Gaang (Gaang Cape)
Situated in Bawean Island, Tanjung Gaang is a beautiful rocky cliff by the side of the sea. Surrounded by clear turquoise waters, every spot here is perfect for picture-taking. If you loved to see more of Tanjung Gaang’s beauty, we would suggest you join a tour that is operated by the locals here. It is so fascinating to see what you can uncover from all corners of the of the island.
Surabaya is a melting pot of cultures which could be seen in the architecture of many historical buildings in the city. It is a place with beautiful landscape and rich floras and faunas as well. Why not make most of your business trip here to Surabaya next time.