Private guide in Surabaya, guided tours in Surabaya, Indonesia

Surabaya
Indonesia

Information about Surabaya

Why is Surabaya in Indonesia attractive to tourists?

Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city and a significant cultural, economic, and historical center of the country. It is located on the eastern part of Java Island and serves as a gateway to many interesting regions. The city combines modern skyscrapers with colonial architecture, cozy neighborhoods, and picturesque parks. Here, you can feel the spirit of traditions while enjoying developed infrastructure and local hospitality.

Surabaya is suitable for both business trips and family vacations or educational tourism. Thanks to its location and connections to other cities, it often becomes the starting point for journeys across East Java. City tours allow you to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history, learn about religious diversity, and taste unique local cuisine.

What attractions should be visited in Surabaya?

• Monument Bajaj Victory – a symbol of the struggle for independence, towering over the city. A great place for photos and learning about the city's history.
• Goa Lonteng Temple – a Buddhist temple known for its colorful statues and scenic location. Perfect for lovers of culture and unusual architecture.
• Surabaya Zoo – one of the oldest and largest zoos in Southeast Asia. An ideal place for families with children.
• Kali Mas River Promenade – a popular walking area with fountains, cafes, and evening lighting.
• Cathedral Church of St. Joseph – a Catholic church with a beautiful interior and historical elements.
• Tugu Palapa Museum – a museum dedicated to Indonesia's history and cultural heritage.
• Tunjungan Plaza Shopping Mall – the largest shopping complex with stores, entertainment, and food.
• Blambangan Square – the heart of the city where festivals and events take place.
• Siva Bala Djaya Temple – a Hindu temple with impressive architecture and an atmosphere of peace.
• Bumbum Park – a green recreation area with playgrounds and picnic zones.

Why is it better to explore Surabaya with a private guide?

Private guided tours in Surabaya allow for a deeper immersion into the city's history and culture. Private guides in Surabaya are well-versed in the specifics of each location, can share interesting facts, and tailor the route to your interests. They help avoid queues, choose convenient visiting times, and ensure a comfortable environment.

If you're traveling with your entire family, with children, or on a short trip, a private guide in Surabaya will become your best assistant. This approach is especially useful if you want to combine sightseeing with visits to local markets, restaurants, and workshops.

When is the best time to visit Surabaya?

The best time to visit Surabaya is during the dry season, which lasts from April to October. During this period, there are fewer rains, and the weather is favorable for walks and excursions. However, thanks to the tropical climate, Surabaya remains an interesting destination all year round.

What language is spoken in Surabaya?

The main language is Indonesian. However, in many tourist areas and hotels, staff speak English. Local dialects such as Javanese are also widespread in the city.

What food should I try in Surabaya?

The gastronomic variety of Surabaya is impressive. Be sure to try dishes such as **rujak cingur** (a salad with seafood), **lontong balap** (rice cakes with lentils), and **rawon** (meat soup with dark broth). Don’t forget the sweet desserts: **lemper** and **klanting**.

How is shopping in Surabaya?

Surabaya offers many shopping opportunities — from modern shopping centers to street markets. If you are looking for original souvenirs, go to the **Pasar Atom** market, and for branded clothes and electronics, **Tunjungan Plaza** and **Supermal Pakuwon Indah** are perfect.

What to buy as a gift from Surabaya and what cannot be exported?

As a souvenir, you can buy handcrafted textiles, wooden items, spices, and coffee. It is not recommended to export animals, rare plant species, and cultural heritage items without permission.

What clothing and shoes are suitable for a trip to Surabaya?

In Surabaya, it is hot and humid all year round. It is recommended to bring light, breathable clothing, headgear, and sunglasses. For visiting temples, closed shoulders and legs are required. Comfortable shoes are a must — a lot of walking!

What currency is used in Surabaya and is it worth exchanging money?

The Indonesian rupiah (IDR) is used in Surabaya. It is better to exchange currency at banks or exchange offices at the airport. Many places accept cards, but cash is still important, especially at markets.

What are the rules of behavior in public places in Surabaya?

Respect for culture and religion is very important. In temples and mosques, you need to remove your shoes and cover your head. Avoid speaking loudly in public places or showing emotions in stressful situations.

How safe is Surabaya for tourists?

Surabaya is considered a relatively safe city. However, as in any large city, you should be careful in crowded places and not carry large amounts of money with you. Avoid sparsely populated areas at night.

What to do in the evening in Surabaya?

In the evening in Surabaya, you can walk along the embankment, have dinner in one of the cozy cafes, visit theaters or concerts. Nightclubs and karaoke bars are also popular among young people.

Is Surabaya interesting for children?

Yes, Surabaya has something to offer for children: a zoo, parks, museums, and game centers. Private guides in Surabaya can offer family routes adapted to the age of the children.

Who lives in Surabaya, what is the religion, and the population size?

The population of Surabaya is about 3 million people. The city is multi-ethnic, with representatives of different ethnic groups living here. The main religion is Islam, but Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism are also widely represented.

How is the ecology in Surabaya?

Surabaya faces air and water pollution problems, like many other major cities. However, local authorities are actively working to improve the environmental situation by developing greening programs and waste recycling.

Which city and airport should you fly to reach Surabaya?

You can fly directly to Surabaya at Juanda International Airport (**Juanda International Airport**), which is about 20 km from the city center. From other cities in Indonesia, you can get there by domestic flights or train.

Why should you visit Surabaya?

Surabaya is the perfect combination of history, culture, cuisine, and modern life. It is a city where everyone can find something interesting. With the help of private guides in Surabaya, you will be able to uncover all its secrets and get the most pleasure from your journey.

5 Reasons to Visit Surabaya

1. A unique blend of historical heritage and modernity.
2. Diverse cuisine that will delight even the most sophisticated gourmets.
3. Plenty of opportunities for family leisure and entertainment.
4. An excellent base for further travel around East Java.
5. The possibility to order individual tours with private guides in Surabaya.

Our Tips for Tourists in Surabaya

• Plan your temple visits in advance to arrive before closing time.
• Use taxis or ride-hailing apps — it's safer than public transport for tourists.
• Take water and insect repellent with you — especially when visiting parks and natural areas.
• Don't forget to tip in good establishments — it's part of the local service culture.
• Learn basic Indonesian phrases in advance — it can help communicate with locals.