About
Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city, a major port on the northeast coast of the island of Java in the province of East Java. It is a working city first: an important industrial and commercial centre, and a place where ships and trade have long shaped daily life. The city is also known under the older spelling Soerabaja.
What to see and feel
Surabaya's historical significance is visible in its colonial architecture, the older buildings that recall the period when the city was part of the Dutch East Indies. Walking through the older districts gives a sense of how the city has changed over time, with its present-day commerce moving around these established streets.
Food and street life
- Street food: the city has a lively street food scene, and eating at stalls and small local places is one of the most rewarding ways to spend an evening.
- Port and commerce: the harbour and the busy trading areas give a direct view of the city's economic role in the region.
Planning a visit
Surabaya suits travellers interested in history, urban life and local food rather than a quiet resort stay. It works well as a stop in East Java, a base from which to explore the wider province, or a destination in its own right for those curious about one of Indonesia's largest cities. Allow time to wander on foot, sample the street food, and look at the colonial buildings at a relaxed pace.
