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The city of Surabaya is the second-largest city in Indonesia and it is one of the best places to see the local life in the country, as well as to learn about the historical and cultural aspects. You can also find many adventurous activities in Surabaya. Here is a list of top 10 places to visit in Surabaya when you are there.
1. Sampoerna Cigarette Factory
The Sampoerna Cigarette Factory, which is also known as the House of Sampoerna is a factory that makes one of the branded cigarette types ‘kretek’ in Surabaya. It is housed in a Dutch building of the 19th century. These cigarettes are made from cloves and therefore, it is high in medicinal properties. You can learn more about how cigarettes are made and about the history of making them in Surabaya by visiting this factory. There is also a museum with a large collection of cigarette lighters, holders and cases that were used in European countries.
2. Surabaya National Monument
Surabaya National Monument is also known as the Heroes Monument. This is because it was established to honour those who died while fighting against the Dutch, particularly in the Battle of Surabaya on 10 November 1945. This monument stands at a height of 41 meters and below it, you can find the 10 November Museum which has exhibitions to explain the meaning behind the establishment of the Surabaya National Monument. However, it is better to wear a hat or take an umbrella with you if you are planning to visit the monument because there are no shady areas near it.
3. Suramadu National Bridge
The Suramadu Bridge, which is also known as the Surabaya–Madura Bridge, is the longest in Indonesia because it connects Surabaya and the town of Bangkalan on the island of Madura. The total distance covered by the bridge is 5.4 kilometres. A suggestion would be to visit or have a walk in the bridge when it is illuminated with lights to give a breathtaking view.
4. Sanggar Agung Temple
Sanggar Agung Temple is one of the must-visit places in Surabaya if you want to see the religious and cultural aspects of Indonesia. It is a Chinese temple that originally served as the main place of worship for the Tridharma followers. The main attraction in this temple is a statue of Guanyin who is the Bodhisattva in the South Sea. The statue stands at a height of 20 meters. There is an interesting story behind the building of this statue. It is said that one of the employees saw a woman walking on the sea at night, believed to be Guan Yin and decided to build the statue in dedication after consulting with her superiors.
5. Cheng Hoo Mosque
Cheng Ho Mosque, which is officially known as the Al Islam Muhammad Cheng Hoo Sriwijaya Palembang Mosque, is one of the main places of worship of Chinese people who have converted to Islam. It was constructed in 2006. As of now, 600 worshipers can be accommodated inside and there are no rules for the separate entry of males and females. The architecture is quite impressive because of the combination of local Palembang, Chinese, Indonesian and Arabic and Malay styles. There is a pagoda as well inside the premises inspired by traditional Chinese architecture- lion and dragon carvings painted with jade/ red combination.
6. Ciputra Waterpark
If you are in for adventurous activities in Surabaya you should head to the Ciputra Waterpark, especially if you are here with your family. It is the biggest waterpark in Indonesia and features many activities like slides, rides and so on. Try the Roc Tower Thunder Ride, Sirens River, Sinbad’s Playground, Marina Lagoon and Chimera Pool. The Sirens River is suitable for the whole family; it has a 480-meter flow in the calm currents in which you can relax the entire ride. The Sinbad’s Playground is another exciting attraction but this is designed for children. Your children can play in the towers and fire water from the canons at other siblings! Chimaera Pools is for younger kids to enjoy as it is a 20 cm deep pool. The Ciputra Waterpark is open until 8.00 pm daily but make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid any disappointments.
7. Masjid Al-Akbar
Masjid Al-Akbar, which is also known as the Great Mosque of Surabaya, is worth the visit just alone for the architectural styles. If you are not a Muslim, you have to dress decently to enter the mosque. It is the second-largest mosque in Indonesia. The most eye-catching feature is the large vertical blue coloured dome which is surrounded by four small blue domes. It also has a minaret, which is a tower-like structure standing at a height of 99 meters. You can get on the elevator in the tower if you want to witness incredible views of the Surabaya city.
8. Monumen Kapal Selam
Monument Kapal Selam, which is simply known as the Submarine Monument is one of the submarines used by the Indonesia Navy fleet in the 1950s. The name of the submarine is KRI Pasopati 410. Today, this submarine is a museum and it was established to honour the Indonesian soldiers and to remember the Battle of the Aru
Sea that was started to free West Irian from Dutch. To learn more about the history, you can arrange for a guided tour with a local guide.
9. Atom Market
Atom Market is one of the best places to buy things that are local and affordable. This market was established in 1972 but still, it hasn’t lost its former glory. You can find almost anything: textiles, electronics, cosmetics, handbags, shoes, souvenirs and even local snacks or sweets to take back home to your loved ones.
10. Ria Kenjeran Beach
Ria Kenjeran Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Surabaya and it is a must-visit if you are looking for a sun-sand time in the city. It can be crowded almost every day but there are many recreational activities for the whole family to enjoy. You can also relax on the beach after a day of exploring the city. It is the go-to place in Surabaya to witness incredible sunsets.
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