Surabaya City Guide

Food is a highlight with local dishes like Rawon and Lontong Balap. There are many international options and growing vegan/vegetarian choices. Street food and some restaurants stay open late.

Nightlife centers on hotel bars, lounges, and some clubs with live music and dancing. It's smaller than Jakarta or Bali but has decent options.

Coffee culture is strong with many cafes and specialty roasters featuring local blends and modern methods.

Tipping is not required but appreciated. Service charges and taxes are usually added at restaurants. Taxi tips are small and optional.

SIM cards from Telkomsel, XL, and Indosat are easy to buy at the airport or malls. Telkomsel has the best coverage. ID or passport needed to register.

Main roads and tourist areas are fairly clean; side streets and markets less so. Recycling is limited.

Many minimarts open 24/7, some pharmacies and clinics offer late service. Street food often available late.

Large supermarkets like Ranch Market, Hypermart, and Carrefour sell both local and international products. Traditional markets like Pasar Atom offer fresh local produce where bargaining is common.

Cards work well in malls, supermarkets, and big restaurants. Cash is needed for smaller vendors, markets, and public transport.

ATMs are common in banks, malls, and convenience stores. Banks like BCA, Mandiri, BRI, and BNI are widely found. Expect withdrawal fees of about IDR 20,000–25,000 for international cards.

Surabaya has local schools like SMA Negeri 5 and international schools including Surabaya Intercultural School and Cita Hati Christian School. International schools teach mainly in English.

An emerging community with some coworking spaces and online groups, but smaller than in Bali or Jakarta.

Parks like Taman Bungkul and Kebun Bibit Wonorejo provide green, shaded places to walk or run.

Good running spots include Taman Bungkul and Darmo Boulevard. Air quality can be an issue during traffic peaks.

Several gyms offer modern equipment and classes.

Tennis courts are available at clubs and hotels with varying booking systems.

Padel is rare but can be found in some newer sports complexes.

Several yoga studios offer different styles. Some have English-speaking instructors.

Facilities teach Silat, Taekwondo, Karate, Boxing, Muay Thai, and growing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu options.

No skiing in Surabaya or Indonesia due to the tropical climate.

Limited water sports like banana boating at Kenjeran Beach. More options require travel.

No surfing spots in Surabaya. Nearest breaks are several hours away on the south coast.

Not a diving spot. Nearest dive sites are in East Java parks or Bali and Lombok.

Private hospitals like Siloam, Mitra Keluarga, and Premier have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies (apotek) are common and offer OTC meds with some advice.

Tap water is unsafe to drink directly. Use bottled water or filters.

Parks like Taman Bungkul and Taman Flora have playgrounds. Family attractions include Surabaya Zoo and Ciputra Waterpark. Baby supplies are easy to find.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is limited and conservative. Open displays carry risks. Safe spaces are few.

Pet policies vary; some places allow pets but many do not. Veterinary care is available. Strict import rules apply.