As Indonesia’s second city, Surabaya is at the center of East Java, blending old traditions with modern change. Known as the “City of Heroes”, Surabaya is more than a historical landmark; it is a vital transport hub with extensive bus services connecting travelers across the archipelago. It’s a city of contrasts, where colonial-era buildings sit beside contemporary malls, and local food stalls compete with trendy cafes. However, Surabaya is not primarily a tourism hotspot; instead, it serves as a bustling center for business, education, and transportation, often acting as a gateway for travelers exploring the natural and cultural wonders of East Java.

What To Do In Surabaya?

Even though Surabaya is not a tourism destination, it has a nice mix of history, culture, and city life that is worth checking out. Start at the Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan), Indonesia’s tallest monument commemorating the country’s struggle for independence. Then, you can visit the House of Sampoerna, an old colonial-style property that was turned into a museum to tell the story of Indonesia’s world-famous kretek (clove cigarette) industry and where one may watch the hand-rolling technique used in making these iconic products firsthand.

For those arriving by bus to Surabaya and after some retail therapy, Tunjungan Plaza is one of the biggest malls in Southeast Asia. For food lovers, Pasar Atum is unmissable. This lively traditional market has fantastic fresh produce, spices, and local specialties. It also has great street food stalls serving spicy East Javanese dishes like rawon and rujak cingur, fashionable cafes, and many international dining options. Need a break from the city? Surabaya can be the launch pad to some great natural wonders like Mount Bromo and the beautiful beaches of Madura Island, making it a suitable base for adventure lovers. Those craving a bit of nature in the afternoon or families looking for fun will enjoy the Surabaya Zoo and Ciputra Waterpark. Both are affordable and just a short ride from the city center.

Bus Pick Up & Drop Off Points In Surabaya : 🚌

Getting to Surabaya by bus is convenient and offers scenic views along the way, especially if you're coming from nearby provinces or major cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, or Bali.

Purabaya Bus Terminal in Waru is Surabaya’s main hub for intercity and interprovincial buses. It’s clean, well-managed, and easily accessible via public transport or ride-hailing apps. Due to unpredictable traffic, especially during peak times, always confirm your departure and arrival terminals when booking a bus to Surabaya