Not sure where to stay in Surabaya? Here are the best areas to stay in this modern, dynamic and bustling Indonesian city.
Indonesia is a dream vacation destination par excellence! At the crossroads of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, this archipelago abounds in different cultures, treasures and landscapes. Among its islands, Java is a volcanic territory located between Sumatra and Bali. It is home to half of Indonesia’s population. Jakarta is the island’s capital. It is also the most populous city.
With 3.5 million inhabitants, Surabaya is Java’s second-largest city. It’s the ideal base for discovering East Java and its must-see sites, such as the Bromo and Ijen volcanoes. The city offers a wide choice of quality accommodation to suit all budgets. To make sure you make the most of the city and its charms, here you’ll find the best places and neighborhoods to stay in Surabaya!
The old town, or « Old Surabaya
Photo credit: Shutterstock / DanielChang76
As you know, every major city has its historic district. Often picturesque, historic centers are neighborhoods brimming with authenticity. Surabaya is no exception. As if frozen in time, « Old Surabaya » has preserved its magnificent colonial-style buildings and monuments. This is where you’ll find some of the city’s most emblematic landmarks, such as the Mandiri Bank and the Sampoern House. The old town is a pleasant place to stay in Surabaya, ideal for strolling the streets, which are full of small, welcoming and very inexpensive guest-houses.
Find a hotel in Surabaya’s old quarter
Book your AirBnb accommodation in Surabaya’s old quarters
Chinatown
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Mochamad rachmat
Looking for accommodation in Surabaya? Think Chinatown! As a port city, Surabaya has a large Chinese community, thanks to its history and its key role in international trade. As a result, even though the Chinese community is present throughout the city, Chinatown is well established, lively and authentic. Architecture, temples, restaurants… No doubt about it, you’re in Chinatown! Discover its narrow streets and its famous evening fish market, Pasar Pabean. It links Chinatown to the Arab market. Above all, don’t miss the Kong Co Kong Tik Cun Ong temple, one of Indonesia’s largest Buddhist temples. You’ll find plenty of affordable accommodation in Chniatown, if you want to sleep in Surabaya.
Find a hotel in Chinatown, Surabaya
Book your AirBnb accommodation in Chinatown, Surabaya
Gubeng
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Cornelius Krishna Tedjo
Looking for a place to stay in Surabaya? Gubeng is THE backpacker district par excellence! In recent years, it has become one of the city’s liveliest districts. As a result, it’s very popular with travelers looking for a good time out and about. Numerous restaurants, bars, hotels and shopping centers have sprung up around the Gubeng railway station over the years, making the district a convenient base for visiting and staying in Surabaya. This is also where you’ll find one of the city’s must-sees, the Pasopati, a Russian submarine integrated into the Indonesian navy in 1962. Known as the Monumen Kapal Selam, you’ll discover a museum retracing the history of Dutch domination in Indonesia.
Find a hotel in Surabaya’s Gubeng district
Book your AirBnb accommodation in Surabaya’s Gubeng district
Kenjeran
Photo credit: Krist Setyawan via Shutterstock
Surabaya is a seaside city, and its Kenjeran district is very pleasant, especially if you’re traveling with the family and are looking for a quiet, popular spot. Ideally located on the coast, you’ll be close to amusement parks, the beach and the magnificent Sanggar Agung temple. You’ll catch a glimpse of the famous Suroboyo or Kenjeran Bridge, which crosses the coastal area from East Surabaya to Kenjeran Beach. Kenjeran is the ideal place to stay in Surabaya.
Find a hotel in Kenjeran Surabaya
Book your AirBnb accommodation in Kenjeran Surabaya
CitraLand
For accommodation in Surabaya, there’s also the elegant Citraland district. A high-end residential area, Citraland aims to become Surabaya’s « city of tomorrow ». Chic, posh, trendy… many adjectives could define this architectural complex, which is a delight to visit. You can easily stay here, but the budget will be a little higher. Its cleanliness and modern design have earned it the nickname « Surabaya’s Singapore ». You’ll find fine hotels, numerous shopping malls, the famous, ultra-busy G-Walk culinary center, a water park, and magnificent monuments to visit. For accommodation in Surabaya, Citraland is one of the most pleasant districts.
Find a hotel in Citraland, Surabaya
Book your AirBnb accommodation in Citraland, Surabaya
The Arab Quarter
Photo credit: Shutterstock / INDONESIAPIX
To stay in Surabaya’s Arab Quarter is to escape for an evening to the land of 1,001 nights… Its people, its architecture, its food, its monuments… Everything here is reminiscent of the Middle East! If you’re wondering where to stay in Surabaya, the Arab Quarter could be a good place to enjoy shopping, authentic cuisine and historic must-sees like the Ampel Mosque.
Find a hotel in Surabaya’s Arab Quarter
Book your AirBnb accommodation in Surabaya’s Arab Quarter
Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, with family or friends, you’ll have an incredible experience in Surabaya! Whatever your budget, you’ll find what you’re looking for when it comes to accommodation in Surabaya: from inexpensive youth hostels to tropical-style luxury hotels, from small colonial hotels to cosy guesthouses, there’s something to suit every taste and budget!