Surabaya — Kota Pahlawan — City of Heroes

Quick facts

• Capital of East Java and home to about 3.0 million people (BPS, mid-2025)
• 334.50 km² split into 31 kecamatan and 153 kelurahan
• Official birthday: 31 May 1293, Raden Wijaya's victory over the Mongol army
• Nicknamed Kota Pahlawan for the Battle of Surabaya; 10 November is national Heroes' Day
• Low-lying and hot: monthly averages of about 28–30°C, with most rain from November to March

Best time to visit

June–September (dry season)

The driest, sunniest months, with only a few rainy days. Best for walking Kota Lama and the coast, but still hot, so start early.

May (Hari Jadi Kota Surabaya, 31 May)

A month of birthday events, including the Surabaya Vaganza parade, Festival Rujak Uleg and promo tickets at city-run attractions.

Mid-September to 10 November (Hari Pahlawan season)

The flag-tearing reenactment at Hotel Majapahit around 19 September, the Parade Surabaya Juang from Tugu Pahlawan, then Heroes' Day ceremonies.

November–March (wet season)

Heavy downpours, with January the wettest month. Plan museum days and keep a light rain jacket handy.

Tips

• Midday highs often reach 35–37°C. Sightsee before 10:00 or after 15:00, and carry water, a hat and sunscreen.
• QRIS payments are everywhere. City attractions take cash or QRIS and some, like the Kalimas boats, accept QRIS only. Keep small notes for parking and street stalls.
• Most city-run museums open about 08:00–15:00 and close on Mondays. Check times and book on tiketwisata.surabaya.go.id.
• Suroboyo Bus and Wira Wiri feeder vans cover the main corridors, and ride-hailing apps fill the gaps. The SSCT sightseeing bus leaves from Balai Pemuda.
• At mosques and the Sunan Ampel tomb, cover your shoulders and knees, take off your shoes where asked and avoid prayer times, especially Friday midday.
• The Surabaya Tourism Information Center is at Jl. Gubernur Suryo 15, in the Alun-alun Surabaya complex at Balai Pemuda.