3 Days in Surabaya Itinerary: Exploring the Best of the City

Welcome to Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city, where modernity meets history. This 3-day itinerary showcases the best attractions, culinary delights, and cultural experiences Surabaya has to offer.

Day 1: Historical and Cultural Exploration

Start your first day in Surabaya by diving into its rich historical and cultural heritage. Below is a detailed itinerary for Day 1:

Breakfast at Rawon Setan

Address: Jl. Embong Malang No. 78/I, Surabaya

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Rawon Setan, famous for its delicious rawon, a traditional Indonesian black beef soup. This iconic eatery opens early and provides an excellent start to your day.

Morning: House of Sampoerna

Address: Taman Sampoerna No. 6, Surabaya

Your first stop is the House of Sampoerna, an exquisite museum that delves into Surabaya’s history and its link with the tobacco industry. The museum provides guided tours, showcasing the vintage cigarette production process and offering insights into the country’s colonial past.

Mid-Morning: Suramadu National Bridge

After soaking in the historical vibes, take a drive across the iconic Suramadu National Bridge, the longest bridge in Indonesia, connecting Surabaya with Madura Island. The views from the bridge are stunning and make for a great photo opportunity.

Lunch at Layar Seafood

Address: Jl. Manyar Kertoarjo No. 23-25, Surabaya

Indulge in a seafood feast at Layar Seafood, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. From fresh fish to prawns and crabs, every dish is a treat to your taste buds.

Afternoon: Ampel Mosque and Arab Quarter

Address: Jl. Ampel Suci, Surabaya

In the afternoon, visit the Ampel Mosque, one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Surabaya. Wander through the bustling streets of the surrounding Arab Quarter, where you can shop for Arabic goods, taste local delicacies, and soak in the area’s unique atmosphere.

Late Afternoon: Heroes Monument and Museum

Address: Jl. Pahlawan, Surabaya

Your next stop is the Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan) and Museum, a tribute to the fallen heroes of the Battle of Surabaya. The monument is an important symbol of Indonesian independence, and the museum offers an informative glimpse into the country’s struggle for freedom.

Dinner at Depot Bu Rudy Dharmahusada

Address: Jl. Dharmahusada No. 144, Surabaya

End your day with a traditional Indonesian dinner at Depot Bu Rudy Dharmahusada. Known for its fried shrimp (nasi udang) and sambal, this restaurant is a must-visit for authentic local flavors.

Evening: Surabaya Night Market

Conclude your first day by exploring one of Surabaya’s vibrant night markets. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, try street food, and shop for souvenirs to take back home.

Day 2: A Blend of Nature and Modern Attractions

On your second day in Surabaya, you’ll explore a mix of natural beauty and modern attractions. Here’s the plan for Day 2:

Breakfast at Boncafe Steak & Ice Cream

Address: Jl. Gubeng Raya No. 46-48, Surabaya

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Boncafe Steak & Ice Cream, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious meals. Don’t forget to try their famous steak and refreshing ice cream.

Morning: Surabaya Zoo (Kebun Binatang Surabaya)

Address: Jl. Setail No. 1, Surabaya

Kick off the morning with a visit to Surabaya Zoo, one of the oldest and most famous zoos in Indonesia. Home to diverse animals, the zoo offers educational opportunities and a fun experience for visitors of all ages.

Late Morning: Bungkul Park (Taman Bungkul)

Address: Jl. Taman Bungkul, Surabaya

After the zoo, head to Bungkul Park for a relaxing stroll. This beautifully landscaped park is perfect for unwinding, with walking paths, gardens, and plenty of green space. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Lunch at Warung Bu Kris – Kayon

Address: Jl. Kayoon No. 46B, Surabaya

Enjoy a traditional Javanese lunch at Warung Bu Kris – Kayon. Renowned for its crispy fried chicken (ayam penyet) and other Indonesian dishes, this eatery is a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Afternoon: Tunjungan Plaza

Address: Jl. Basuki Rahmat No. 8-12, Surabaya

Visit Tunjungan Plaza, one of the largest shopping malls in Surabaya. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or enjoy some entertainment, Tunjungan Plaza has it all. Spend a couple of hours exploring the shops and indulging in some retail therapy.

Late Afternoon at Zangrandi Ice Cream

Address: Jl. Yos Sudarso No. 15, Surabaya

Head to Zangrandi Ice Cream for a sweet treat after a day of exploration. Established in 1930, this iconic ice cream shop offers a nostalgic ambiance and a range of delectable ice cream flavors.

Evening: G-Walk in Citraland Surabaya

Address: Citraland, Surabaya

Wrap up your second day at G-Walk in Citraland Surabaya. This lively area comes alive at night with street food vendors, cafes, and entertainment options. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and try some local delights to end your day on a high note.

Day 3: Art, History, and Scenic Beauty

Your final day in Surabaya will be a rich blend of artistic exploration, historical insights, and scenic beauty. Here’s the detailed itinerary for Day 3:

Breakfast at Carpentier Kitchen

Address: Jl. Untung Suropati No. 83, Surabaya

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at Carpentier Kitchen, a delightful café known for its delicious breakfast options and charming décor. It’s a great spot to fuel up before a day of exploration.

Morning: Heroes Monument and Museum

Address: Jl. Pahlawan, Surabaya

Head back to Heroes Monument to explore the museum in more detail or to catch anything you might have missed on Day 1. The monument, dedicated to the heroes of the Battle of Surabaya, provides deep insights into Indonesia’s fight for independence.

Mid-Morning: House of Sampoerna

Address: Taman Sampoerna No. 6, Surabaya

Revisit the House of Sampoerna for any missed exhibits or to take additional guided tours. The insights into the history and process of tobacco production are fascinating and worth a second look.

Lunch at Soto Ambengan Pak Sadi

Address: Jl. Ambengan No. 3A, Surabaya

Enjoy an authentic Indonesian lunch at Soto Ambengan Pak Sadi, famous for its savory soto ayam, a traditional Indonesian chicken soup. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients will leave you satisfied and ready for the rest of the day.

Afternoon: Kenjeran Beach

Address: Jl. Pantai Kenjeran, Surabaya

Spend your afternoon at Kenjeran Beach, a beautiful seaside spot perfect for some relaxation. Enjoy the scenic views, take a stroll along the shore, or engage in some beachside activities.

Late Afternoon: Sanggar Agung Temple

Address: Kenjeran Park, Surabaya

Not far from Kenjeran Beach, visit the Sanggar Agung Temple, a unique Chinese temple with an eclectic mix of religious and cultural elements. The striking architecture and serene environment make it a must-visit site.

Dinner at Layar Seafood KH Abdul Wahab Siamin

Address: Jl. KH Abdul Wahab Siamin Surabaya No.216, Surabaya

Feast on a sumptuous dinner at Layar Seafood KH Abdul Wahab Siamin, renowned for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. This is the perfect opportunity to savor the local seafood one last time before concluding your trip.

Evening: Surabaya North Quay

Address: Jl. Tanjung Perak, Surabaya

Wrap up your three-day adventure with a visit to Surabaya North Quay. This port area offers a breathtaking view of the sunset and an array of dining and entertainment options. It’s an ideal place to reflect on your trip while enjoying the ocean breeze.

This concludes your Surabaya itinerary. We hope you had a memorable journey exploring the best of Surabaya’s attractions, food, and culture.