The best areas to stay in Surabaya are Gubeng, Tunjungan, Merr, Darmo, Pakuwon City, and Rungkut.
That might be a bit of a confusing answer to your question about where to stay at Surabaya.
In this article, we go into much detail about what we believe are the best areas to stay in Surabaya, regarding the type of traveller you are.
If you want to go straight to the recommendations, tap on the following button.
Or simply continue reading if you want to know a bit more about Surabaya itself.
As Indonesia’s second-largest city and the capital of East Java province, Surabaya offers a unique mix of tradition and modernity, making it an attractive destination for many tourists.
Surabaya is renowned for its historical significance, being a city of heroes during Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
You can explore iconic landmarks like the Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan) and the Submarine Monument (Monkasel), which pay homage to the city’s courageous past.
The city’s bustling shopping districts, such as Tunjungan Street and Merr, offer an exciting retail experience with a plethora of malls, boutiques, and markets.
You can indulge in shopping sprees for traditional crafts, souvenirs, and even the latest fashion trends.
Surabaya’s culinary scene is another highlight, with its delectable local dishes and vibrant street food.
You can savor authentic Indonesian cuisine, such as Soto Ayam (chicken soup), Rawon (black beef soup), and Rujak Cingur (a traditional fruit salad with beef snout).
For nature enthusiasts, Surabaya is a gateway to numerous breathtaking destinations.
The city is close to Mount Bromo, one of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes, offering stunning sunrise views and adventurous hiking opportunities.
Also, Surabaya’s proximity to the beautiful beaches of East Java makes it a convenient starting point for beach getaways.
Beyond its attractions, Surabaya is known for its warm and friendly locals, who embrace visitors with open arms.
The city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and dynamic cultural events ensure an engaging experience for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Indonesian life.
Combining all of this and you understand why Surabaya is such a popular tourist destination.
To make things easier for you so you can enjoy the city to the fullest, we’ve come to the best areas the city has to offer.
Each of the recommended areas comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which are summarized after each paragraph.
With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.
Where to stay in Surabaya? Keep reading!
Overview of the best areas to stay at Surabaya
Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.
You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.
| The best areas to stay in Surabaya | What’s so special about this area? |
|---|---|
| 1. 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. |
| 2. 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. |
| 3. 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. |
| 4. 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. |
| 5. 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. |
| 6. Rungkut | For budget-conscious travelers, Rungkut is an option worth considering. It’s known for its affordable accommodation options and local eateries. |
The best areas to stay in Surabaya are:
1. Gubeng
Gubeng is one of Surabaya’s most central and accessible areas, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the city with ease.
The district is home to Surabaya Gubeng Railway Station, the main rail hub that connects you to destinations across Java, offering unmatched convenience for regional travel.
This vibrant area combines modern amenities with local charm, featuring a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, from affordable guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
Food enthusiasts will find plenty to indulge in, with numerous warungs (local eateries) and restaurants serving traditional East Javanese delicacies like rawon and tahu tek, alongside more contemporary dining options.
Gubeng’s central location also places you close to some of Surabaya’s most popular attractions, such as the Submarine Monument (Monkasel), a fascinating piece of naval history, as well as Tunjungan Plaza, one of Indonesia’s largest shopping malls, perfect for retail therapy or escaping the midday heat.
With its blend of accessibility, affordability, and a thriving culinary scene, Gubeng is a practical and enjoyable base for exploring Surabaya, whether you’re staying for a short visit or an extended trip.
Great for: convenience.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Tunjungan
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Merr
Merr (Mayjen Sungkono Road) is one of Surabaya’s most vibrant districts, perfect for travelers who crave a mix of modern amenities and a relaxed atmosphere.
Popular among young locals and visitors, this area is known for its trendy cafes, shopping malls, and a diverse range of dining and entertainment options.
Whether you’re in the mood for authentic East Javanese dishes like tahu campur and nasi goreng or looking to explore international cuisine, MERR’s food scene won’t disappoint.
The district is well-connected, with easy access to key areas of the city, including Juanda International Airport and major business districts, making it a convenient base for both tourists and business travelers.
If you’re in the mood for shopping or entertainment, you’ll find plenty to explore at nearby attractions like Ciputra World Mall, Lenmarc Mall, Pakuwon Food Festival, and Galaxy Mall.
MERR also offers a more tranquil vibe compared to the hustle and bustle of the city center, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter stay without sacrificing convenience.
With a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to stylish hotels, MERR offers excellent value for money.
Plus, its proximity to places like Kenjeran Beach and the Surabaya Night Carnival means there’s always something exciting nearby.
Great for: convenience combined with tranquility.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Darmo
Darmo is a peaceful, residential area in Surabaya that offers a more relaxed and laid-back experience, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a tranquil retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Situated just a short distance from the city center, Darmo is well-connected to various parts of Surabaya, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s main attractions.
The area is known for its affordability, with a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to more upscale hotels, all providing great value for money.
Food lovers will enjoy Darmo’s diverse dining scene, with local warungs serving traditional Indonesian dishes like ayam penyet and soto, as well as modern cafes offering international cuisine.
Though Darmo offers a quieter, residential vibe, it’s still close to key attractions such as the Surabaya Zoo, Taman Bungkul Park, and the city’s shopping malls, allowing you to easily explore the city’s highlights.
The area’s combination of central location, accessibility, affordability, and local charm makes Darmo an ideal choice for travelers who want to experience the best of Surabaya while enjoying a comfortable and peaceful stay.
Great for: affordability
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Pakuwon City
Pakuwon City is a massive integrated township known for its modern infrastructure and amenities.
Staying here provides access to well-designed green spaces, jogging tracks, and recreational facilities within the township itself.
Residents and visitors can enjoy shopping at the Pakuwon Mall, one of the largest malls in Surabaya.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Rungkut
Rungkut is a more budget-friendly area compared to the others on the list, offering affordable accommodation options.
The area is known for its local eateries, where you can try various Indonesian dishes at reasonable prices.
While it may not have as many tourist attractions as other areas, Rungkut is an excellent choice for those looking to save on accommodation costs and experience a more authentic side of Surabaya.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
How to get around in Surabaya as a tourist?
Taxis are widely available in Surabay although you can use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab to book a car or motorbike taxi.
These apps are popular in Indonesia and offer a safe and affordable way to travel around the city.
Becak is a traditional cycle rickshaw commonly found in Surabaya.
It’s a unique and enjoyable way to explore the city at a slower pace.
But make sure to negotiate the fare with the becak driver before starting your journey.
Angkot is short for Angkutan Kota, which means city transportation.
These public minivans follow specific routes and are an inexpensive way to get around the city.
However, they can be crowded and might not be the most comfortable option for all travelers.
The city has several public buses operated by various companies.
While buses can be a more budget-friendly option, they might not be as tourist-friendly due to potential language barriers and lack of route information.
Exploring on foot is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover hidden gems.
Many of Surabaya’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in areas like Tunjungan and Gubeng.
To be fair, the majority of tourists take either a taxi or book a ride with ride-hailing apps to travel longer distances and then explore the city on foot.
When you want to visit Mount Bromo, the best option is to book an organized tour.
What is the best time of the year to visit Surabaya?
The best time to visit Surabaya is during the dry season, which generally falls between May and September.
During this period, you can expect pleasant weather with lower humidity, making it more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The dry season is also the peak tourist season in Surabaya.
Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons in Surabaya:
Dry Season (May to September)
This is the most popular time for tourists to visit Surabaya.
The weather is generally sunny, with less rainfall and milder temperatures.
Daytime temperatures usually range from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F), making it an enjoyable time to explore the city and nearby attractions.
Wet Season (October to April)
Surabaya experiences a wet season, characterized by more frequent rainfall and higher humidity.
The wet season peaks between December and February.
While the city remains accessible and activities are available, heavy rains and occasional flooding may occur, affecting travel plans and outdoor excursions.
Another factor to consider when planning your visit is local events and festivals.
Surabaya hosts various cultural events and celebrations throughout the year, which can add an extra layer of excitement to your experience.
However, it’s essential to book accommodations well in advance during peak tourist seasons and major festivals.
Map of best areas to stay in Surabaya
The next image is a map of the best areas in Surabaya including the city highlights.
The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.
A map will follow soon.
There you have it, all our recommendations to your question about the best areas to stay in Surabaya.
We hope you enjoyed it and hopefully, you can make a good decision and have the time of your life at this amazing destination!
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