The best areas to stay in Surabaya are Gubeng, Tunjungan, Merr, Darmo, Pakuwon City, and Rungkut.
Gubeng and Tunjungan are ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to shopping malls, the iconic colonial sight of the city, and Surabaya’s best dining and entertainment options.
MERR, Darmo, and Pakuwon City are great for families or longer stays, as they offer a quieter, residential feel with good access to parks, international schools, and upscale malls.
For business travelers or those on a budget, Rungkut is a practical choice with affordable hotels near the industrial zones and good road connections to the airport.
Below, we’ll break down each of these recommended areas in more detail to help you decide which is the best fit for your family.
⚠️ Tip: Tap the area name to jump directly to that section of the article for more information!
Gubeng: This area is a popular choice for tourists due to its central location and easy access to various attractions, shopping malls, and restaurants. It’s a great option for those who want to be close to the city’s hustle and bustle.
Tunjungan: Tunjungan Street is one of Surabaya’s main commercial districts, offering plenty of shopping opportunities, entertainment, and dining experiences. It’s an excellent choice for shopaholics and those who enjoy a lively urban atmosphere.
MERR: MERR (short for MERRith or Mayjen Sungkono Road) is another vibrant area with numerous shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a favorite among young travelers and urban enthusiasts.
Darmo: Darmo is a more upscale and residential area compared to the previous ones. It offers a quieter and more relaxed environment, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a more tranquil stay.
Pakuwon City: If you’re looking for a modern and self-contained area, Pakuwon City is a great choice. It’s a large integrated township with various amenities, including shopping malls, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
Rungkut: For budget-conscious travelers, Rungkut is an option worth considering. It’s known for its affordable accommodation options and local eateries.
Great for: convenience.
If you’re planning a trip to Surabaya and want to stay somewhere central and convenient, Gubeng is a smart choice.
I’ve spent time in this area and can confidently say it offers a great mix of accessibility and local character.
One of the biggest advantages is the Surabaya Gubeng Railway Station, the city’s main train hub.
From here, you can easily catch a train to other parts of Java, whether you’re heading to Yogyakarta, Malang, or even Jakarta. It’s ideal if you’re including Surabaya in a wider Java itinerary.
Gubeng also has a good range of places to stay.
There are plenty of affordable guesthouses for budget travelers, along with comfortable mid-range hotels that offer solid value.
I once stayed in a small hotel just a few minutes from the station. It was simple but had everything I needed, including easy access to food and transport.
Speaking of food, this is one of the highlights of Gubeng.
The area is packed with local warungs where you can try East Javanese specialties like rawon, a dark and flavorful beef soup, and tahu tek, a tasty mix of tofu, egg, and peanut sauce. There are also more modern cafés and restaurants around if you feel like switching things up.
Gubeng’s location puts you close to some of the city’s best-known attractions.
The Submarine Monument, or Monkasel, is just around the corner. It’s an actual Russian submarine you can walk through, and a surprisingly interesting way to learn about Indonesia’s naval history. For shopping or simply escaping the midday heat, Tunjungan Plaza is nearby and offers just about everything you might need.
Overall, Gubeng makes a great base in Surabaya.
It’s convenient, budget-friendly, and gives you a taste of the local scene without sacrificing comfort.
Whether you’re staying a couple of nights or planning a longer visit, it’s definitely worth considering.
Great for: nightlife.
If you’re looking for the beating heart of Surabaya, Tunjungan is where you’ll find it.
This area blends the city’s colonial past with modern energy, making it one of the most exciting and well-rounded places to stay or explore.
At the center of it all is Tunjungan Plaza, a massive shopping complex that ranks among the largest in Southeast Asia.
It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend hours browsing shops, trying out different restaurants, or catching a movie when the tropical heat kicks in.
It’s more than just a mall, really—it’s a lifestyle hub that locals and visitors rely on for everything from daily needs to weekend hangouts.
Step outside and you’re on Tunjungan Street, a lively strip that really comes to life after dark.
The street is a mix of old and new, with colonial-era facades standing next to modern cafés, boutiques, and glowing signs.
In the evenings, the atmosphere turns festive. It’s where people come to eat, stroll, and soak up the energy of the city.
Food-wise, Tunjungan is a treat.
Just a short walk down the street and you’ll find everything from traditional street food to high-end dining.
Whether it’s a comforting bowl of soto ayam or a plate of lontong balap from a roadside vendor, or a beautifully plated meal at an upscale Indonesian or international restaurant, there’s something for every craving and every budget.
The area is also packed with cultural and historical spots.
You’re close to landmarks like the Grahadi Building and the elegant House of Sampoerna Museum, which tells the story of Indonesia’s clove cigarette industry in a stunning heritage building.
History lovers will also want to visit the iconic Hotel Majapahit, a colonial gem with deep roots in Indonesia’s independence movement, and the nearby Heroes Monument, one of the city’s most important sites.
What makes Tunjungan especially convenient is how well-connected it is.
Whether you’re taking public transportation or using ride-hailing apps, it’s easy to get around from here.
You’re right in the middle of the action, yet everything feels walkable.
Accommodation options are diverse too.
There are stylish boutique hotels with a lot of character, as well as more luxurious stays if you’re in the mood to treat yourself.
If nightlife is on your radar, this is definitely the place to be.
While Surabaya’s nightlife scene isn’t wild, Tunjungan has a good mix of late-night cafés, bars, and lively corners that stay buzzing well into the night.
In short, Tunjungan is the kind of neighborhood that lets you experience a bit of everything – history, shopping, food, culture, and a touch of nightlife – all within easy reach.
Great for: convenience combined with tranquility.
If you’re looking for a part of Surabaya that feels fresh, modern, and just a bit more laid-back, head to MERR, short for Mayjen Sungkono Road.
It’s one of the city’s liveliest areas and has become especially popular with young locals, students, and travelers who enjoy a good mix of city life without all the chaos.
What stands out about MERR is its cool, youthful vibe.
The area is full of trendy cafés where you can grab a great coffee, get some work done, or just hang out and people-watch.
It’s also home to several malls and lifestyle spots that keep the energy up both day and night.
Whether you’re in town for business or just passing through, MERR gives you that nice balance between comfort and local flavor.
Food lovers will have a field day here.
From classic East Javanese dishes like tahu campur and nasi goreng to international favorites, the food scene is incredibly diverse.
You’ll find street food stalls, casual diners, and stylish restaurants all within walking distance.
I had some of my favorite late-night meals in this part of the city.
Getting around from MERR is easy.
You’re well-connected to the rest of Surabaya, with quick routes to Juanda International Airport and the city’s main business hubs.
That makes it a really practical choice for anyone juggling both leisure and work during their stay.
If shopping or entertainment is high on your list, there’s no shortage of nearby places to explore.
Ciputra World, Lenmarc Mall, Galaxy Mall, and the always lively Pakuwon Food Festival are all just a short ride away.
Each spot offers a slightly different vibe, from high-end shopping to casual food court feasts.
One of the things I love most about staying in MERR is the calmer atmosphere.
It’s not as hectic as downtown, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to wind down a little without being too far from the action.
You get all the benefits of the city without the nonstop noise.
Accommodation here is also solid.
You’ll find everything from budget guesthouses to sleek, modern hotels, all offering good value for money.
It’s the kind of place where you can be comfortable without blowing your travel budget.
And if you’re up for a bit of exploring, you’re not far from Kenjeran Beach or the Surabaya Night Carnival, both great options for a fun evening out or a bit of fresh air by the coast.
All in all, MERR is a great base in Surabaya if you’re after convenience, comfort, and a more relaxed city experience that still has plenty to offer.
Great for: affordability
If you’re after a peaceful place to stay in Surabaya that still keeps you close to the action, Darmo might be exactly what you’re looking for.
This quiet, residential neighborhood offers a more relaxed pace, making it a great option for travelers who want to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Even though it feels tucked away from the hustle and bustle, Darmo is actually just a short drive from the city center.
Getting around is easy, with good road connections to other parts of Surabaya.
So whether you’re heading to a museum, a shopping mall, or out to explore a local park, it won’t take long to get there.
What makes Darmo especially appealing is how budget-friendly it is.
The area has a good mix of places to stay, from simple guesthouses to comfortable hotels that offer great value without the big-city price tag.
It’s perfect if you’re traveling on a budget but still want somewhere clean, quiet, and convenient.
One of my favorite things about Darmo is the food scene.
You’ll find lots of local warungs serving comforting Indonesian dishes like ayam penyet and a warm bowl of soto, as well as more modern cafés and restaurants if you’re in the mood for something international.
It’s a nice blend that keeps your taste buds happy without having to venture far.
Even though Darmo is more chilled-out than other parts of the city, you’re never far from something interesting.
The Surabaya Zoo is nearby and great for families or animal lovers.
Taman Bungkul Park is also close, offering a green space to relax or take a leisurely walk.
And when you’re ready for some shopping, malls like Royal Plaza and Ciputra World are just a short ride away.
Overall, Darmo is ideal if you want to enjoy a quieter, more local side of Surabaya without missing out on the city’s highlights.
It offers that perfect balance of comfort, affordability, and convenience that’s often hard to find in a big city.
Great for: comfort and space
If you’re looking for a comfortable and modern base during your time in Surabaya, Pakuwon City is a solid option to consider.
Located in East Surabaya, this planned residential area offers a more organized and relaxed environment compared to the city center, making it a popular choice for families, long-stay travelers, and anyone who prefers a quieter setting without being too far from the action.
Pakuwon City stands out for its clean streets, secure neighborhoods, and green spaces.
It’s a peaceful area, yet still well-connected to major parts of Surabaya.
You’ll find plenty of local amenities here, including supermarkets, clinics, cafes, and a growing number of restaurants.
The nearby East Coast Center and Food Festival are great for casual dining and shopping, while Galaxy Mall isn’t too far away if you’re after something more upscale.
Accommodation in Pakuwon City tends to be modern and spacious.
Whether you’re staying in a serviced apartment or a guesthouse, you’ll likely enjoy more room and privacy than in the busier parts of town.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who plan to stay more than just a few nights.
While Pakuwon City may not be ideal if you’re chasing nightlife or want to be right in the middle of tourist attractions, it’s a great choice for those who value comfort, space, and a slower pace.
Great for: budget & practicality
Rungkut is a practical and down-to-earth area in East Surabaya that’s ideal for travelers looking for convenience without the crowds.
It may not be the most touristy part of the city, but that’s exactly what gives it a more local and authentic vibe.
If you’re visiting Surabaya for business, studying, or a longer stay, Rungkut offers a balanced mix of affordability and accessibility.
This area is known for being close to several universities and business parks, so you’ll find lots of budget-friendly accommodations, co-living spaces, and affordable restaurants catering to students and young professionals.
It’s a great place to base yourself if you’re planning to explore Surabaya on a tighter budget but still want decent comfort and access to city essentials.
Rungkut is also fairly well-connected.
Juanda International Airport is just a short drive away, and major roads make it easy to reach other parts of the city.
You’ll find local markets, malls like City of Tomorrow (CITO), and plenty of street food stalls selling East Javanese favorites such as nasi pecel and tahu campur.
While it may not offer high-end malls or flashy attractions, Rungkut’s charm lies in its laid-back feel and everyday rhythm.
It’s a place where you can settle in, live like a local, and enjoy good food without breaking the bank.
If you’re after a quieter, budget-conscious stay with easy access to key parts of the city, Rungkut is worth considering.
