Where To Stay In Surabaya First Time 2024 - 5 Best Areas
In this article, we dive deeper into your question about where to stay in Surabaya first time.
To make it as simple as possible for you as a reader, we start with an overview of all the recommended areas we cover followed by a short description.
Then, we briefly answer a few commonly asked questions:
Where to stay in Surabaya first time?
Where to stay in Surabaya with family?
Where to stay in Surabaya for backpackers?
Where to stay in Surabaya for couples?
Where to stay in Surabaya for nightlife?
Where to stay in Surabaya to visit Mount Bromo?
You can always tap on a purple link to go directly to that part of the article.
This will save you a lot of time and only read what you need to read.
Enjoy!
Overview of the best areas to stay in Surabaya
| Name of the area in Surabaya | Description of the recommended area |
|---|---|
1. City Center (Surabaya Pusat) Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is the most convenient area in Surabaya as it offers easy access to major attractions like Tunjungan Plaza, Surabaya Zoo, and the historic area around Jalan Pemuda. The area is home to all sorts of accommodation options in all budget classes. *You can click on the purple or blue link to directly navigate to that part of the article to read in-depth information about that specific area. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Located near the central train station, Gubeng is a convenient area to stay in if you plan to travel by train or want easy access to public transportation. It also has a variety of accommodation options and is close to shopping centers and restaurants. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Tunjungan is known for its upscale shopping malls and exciting nightlife scene. You’re also located near attractions like Tunjungan Plaza, Surabaya Submarine Monument, and many restaurants and cafes. It’s a trendy area ideal for younger travellers, if your budget allows it. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is popular among tourists for its proximity to attractions like Ciputra Waterpark and Pakuwon Mall. It’s a bit further from the city center but offers a more relaxed atmosphere and modern amenities. Keep in mind that, aside from its good access to the attractions, accessibility to other parts is not as optimal as other areas. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Darmo is an often overlooked area as it’s mainly a residential area, but this residential area offers easy access to the main attractions in Surabaya and its modern amenities. It’s a relatively quiet area, and ideal for those travelling with kids. Just keep in mind that the variety of accommodation options is not as broad as in the more popular areas. |
Where to stay in Surabaya first time
The best areas to stay in Surabaya first time are Surabaya’s City Center (Surabaya Pusat), Gubeng, and Tunjungan.
For the majority of first-time visitors, Surabaya’s City Center is the best option.
It’s the most convenient area with plenty of things to do while having great access to the major attractions of the city and the most variety of accommodation options.
As Surabaya is not a destination where you will stay for several days, most tourists have certain preferences during their somewhat limited time.
For example, many travelers arrive by train and will stay shortly in Surabaya.
Staying at Gubeng, which is located near the central train station, is therefore a popular option. From here, you can easily arrange other forms of transport to your next destination.
Those who want to explore Surabaya’s nightlife scene should stay in the trendy area of Tunjungan, which also offers good access to the city’s main attractions.
There are two alternative areas you should consider staying at.
Mulyorejo is a popular area among tourists for its proximity to attractions like Ciputra Waterpark and Pakuwon Mall.
However, you’re located further away from the city center.
Lastly, Darmo is a great option when travelling with kids as it’s a relatively quiet area, but it’s conveniently located near the main attractions.
In most cases, though, the City Center is the most ideal option.
Where to stay in Surabaya with family
The best areas to stay in Surabaya with family are Darmo, Mulyorejo, and Surabaya’s City Center.
Darmo is located south of Surabaya’s City Center and is relatively quieter compared to the heart of the city.
As you still have great access to the city center, it’s a fantastic option to discover Surabaya with your family.
Obviously, you can stay in Surabaya’s City Center, which comes with all the comforts you can think of, but it’s simply much busier.
Alternatively, Mulyorejo is a good option if you want to stay closer to certain attractions, such as the mangroves, instead of the main city center.
You do have good access to Atlantis Land Kenjeran, which is an imitation Disneyland theme park.
However, the majority of the major sights and attractions are located around the city center and Darmo.
Where to stay in Surabaya for backpackers
The best area to stay in Surabaya for backpackers is Surabaya’s City Center.
Here, you can find plenty of affordable accommodation options, including hostels and budget hotels.
You will also save plenty of money not spending much on transport, as many attractions are located nearby.
Also, Surabaya’s City Center is home to plenty of affordable restaurants.
Around the Tunjungan Plaza, you will find plenty of like-minded travellers.
Whenever you do need to use public transport, head over to Surabaya Gubeng Station, which is near Jalan Pemuda.
Where to stay in Surabaya for couples
The best area to stay in Surabaya for couples is Tunjungan.
Tunjungan is a bit of an upscale area near the city center and in this area, you can find great hotels, restaurants, and cafes that are ideal for the two of you.
If you’re looking for a bit of comfort, unique dining experiences, and trendy bars and lounges to spend the evening together, this is the area you’re looking for.
Alternatively, Mulyorejo is a good option for couples who seek a bit of a laid-back experience with good access to parks, local eateries, and shopping centers.
Hotels here are more affordable compared to Tunjungan, and you get more value for your bucks, but you’re located further away from the city center.
You can always choose to stay at Surabaya’s City Center, which also offers affordable accommodations.
Where to stay in Surabaya for nightlife
The best areas to stay in Surabaya for nightlife are Tunjungan and Surabaya’s City Center.
Tunjungan is not only known for its upscale shopping malls and dining establishments but also for its great nightlife scene.
This is the place to be for a fun night out.
Especially around Tunjungan Plaza and the surrounding streets, you can find plenty of bars and clubs.
Alternatively, you can explore a good nightlife scene in Surabaya’s City Center.
There are trendy bars and clubs to discover, but also evening markets and local nightlife venues.
Also, the nightlife here takes place more on the streets compared to Tunjungan.
Where to stay in Surabaya to visit Mount Bromo
The best areas to stay in Surabaya to visit Mount Bromo are Surabaya’s City Center and Gubeng.
These two areas come with convenient transportation links.
Visiting Mount Bromo is best when you arrange this via a tour operator.
Many of these agents are located in Surabaya’s City Center, and in this area, you will find plenty of accommodation options.
You will be picked up in the morning and dropped off in the late evening, and staying in the city center is incredibly convenient.
Gubeng is also a great option.
This area is located close to the central station and as it is a transportation hub, tour operators often gather at this station before heading to Mount Bromo.
Again, you can easily arrange a trip from the train station to Mount Bromo via one of the travel agencies.
1. City Center
Simply put, for the majority of tourists, Surabaya’s City Center is the ideal area to stay.
As the name suggests, the City Center is strategically located in the heart of Surabaya, making it a convenient base for exploring the city’s attractions and landmarks.
Many of Surabaya’s key sights, such as Tunjungan Plaza, Surabaya Zoo, and the historic area around Jalan Pemuda, are easily accessible from this area.
Popular areas like Chinatown and Old Town are also part of the city center.
The area offers a wide variety of accommodation options in all budget classes.
From backpackers to those seeking an upscale experience, it’s all available here.
As you can expect from a city center, there are plenty of things to do and many restaurants to discover.
From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, you can all find it here.
During the evening, you can enjoy a decent nightlife scene, which is more local compared to the nightlife epicenter of the city, the trendy Tunjungan
Traveling to other parts of the city is relatively easy as well, as the Gubeng train station, one of Surabaya’s main transportation hubs, is not far from here.
Is there anything not to like about Surabaya’s City Center?
One of the major drawbacks is the traffic congestion in combination with the crowds.
Luckily, the majority of the attractions are near the center, but keep in mind that you often are stuck in traffic in Surabaya’s center.
Also, it’s simply noisy, especially compared to the other areas that I recommend in this article.
That being said, this part of the city comes with so many advantages that the disadvantages are simply minor ones.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Gubeng
Gubeng is the main transportation hub of the city.
It’s (only) a great area when you’re planning to rely on public transport, explore Surabaya and its surrounding areas, as well as visiting Mount Bromo.
You’re located near the city center, but it’s definitely not within walking distance.
To be honest, the reason why you should choose Gubeng is that (a.) you have limited time in Surabaya and you need to use the train or bus to your next destination or (b.) when you’re planning to visit Mount Bromo.
That’s because the area itself doesn’t have that much to offer and the city center is simply a better option.
You won’t find much nightlife and restaurants here, and the major attractions are located near the City Center.
Now, I’m not saying Gubeng is a bad area, but for the majority of the tourists, who do want to see the highlights of Surabaya, the City Center is simply more convenient.
My advice is to pick a hotel that lies between Gubeng and the City Center.
That way, you can have a bit of both.
Also, if you’re planning to visit Mount Bromo, you can find many tour operators near Gubeng Train Station, which makes it a convenient area to visit this popular volcano.
With that being said, getting to the city center is not that difficult, though.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Tunjungan
For an upscale experience, or when you’re a nightlife fanatic, Tunjungan is the area you’re looking for.
Yes, you can find upscale hotels in Surabaya’s city center, but Tunjungan is particularly known for being trendy and upscale.
Tunjungan is conveniently located in the heart of the city and visiting the city’s key sights is a piece of cake from here.
The area is dotted with amazing restaurants, shopping malls, chic cafes, rooftop bars, and nightclubs.
Accommodations here come with excellent amenities, such as swimming pools, spa facilities, fine dining experiences, and much more.
Tunjungan is well-maintained and many amenities such as banks, pharmacies, and convenience stores can be found here.
Especially couples tend to stay here to enjoy Surabaya with all these comforts.
The downside of this area?
The premium price tag.
If your budget allows it, Tunjungan is one of the best areas you can stay at.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Mulyorejo
Mulyorejo is one of the alternative options you have.
It’s located a bit outside of the city and because of that, you can find a far more relaxed atmosphere compared to the somewhat chaotic city center.
You can find many shopping malls in this area, including Pakuwon Mall, one of Surabaya’s largest shopping centers.
Here, you can find entertainment venues and plenty of restaurants, including Western diners.
From Mulyorejo, you can easily visit Atlantis Land Kenjeran and Ciputra Waterpark, which are both family-friendly parks.
Overall, families who prefer a quieter area tend to stay here.
But keep in mind that you’re located further away from the city center.
If you don’t mind travelling a bit to see Surabaya’s main attractions and come back to a quieter area later that day, this is the area you’re looking for.
But if you prefer to stay closer to the city center with your family, then the next recommended area is a better option.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Darmo
I must admit, that Darmo is not the most common choice for first-time visitors to Surabaya.
That’s because Darmo is a predominantly residential area.
The area tends to be quieter and more peaceful compared to the city center while remaining centrally located.
Because of that, it’s a good option for families who prefer to stay closer to the city center, but prefer a quieter neighborhood.
You won’t find that many hotels here, but the ones that are located here offer more value for your money, especially compared to the city center.
Now, keep in mind that this area caters to its local residents, so you won’t find many international restaurants here, for example.
Also, you’re facing the same issue as Gubeng: there is not much to do, and the city center simply offers far more convenience.
So the only reason why it makes sense to stay here is when you want to avoid all the noise and crowds and prefer to stay in a quieter, local and authentic neighborhood.
With that being said, getting to the city center is not that difficult, though.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Surabaya in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.