About Surabaya accommodation
Surabaya is Indonesia’s second-largest city—and a key gateway to East Java. Whether you’re flying in to explore Mount Bromo, heading to the Ijen Crater or catching the ferry to Bali, this is where many trips begin. But linger a little and you’ll find a city full of contrasts: Dutch-era architecture next to mega-malls, street food stalls across from sleek hotels.
Accommodation here is just as varied. From five-star icons near Tunjungan Plaza to leafy boutique stays in Darmo or simple guesthouses near Gubeng Station, Surabaya caters to all travel styles.
Where to stay in Surabaya
- City Centre (Tunjungan & Genteng): This is Surabaya turned up to eleven, with colonial landmarks, giant malls and round-the-clock buzz. Stay here if it’s your first time or if you want to be near the action. Think Tunjungan Plaza, Hotel Majapahit and sunset strolls along Jalan Tunjungan.
- Gubeng: Catching a train or heading to Mount Bromo? Gubeng’s your launchpad. It’s also packed with practical picks. Think mid-range hotels, busy warungs and quick trips to the city centre.
- Darmo: Leafy streets, neighbourhood cafés and a slower pace—Darmo is ideal if you’re after a quieter base. You’re close to Bungkul Park, with enough greenery to take a breather from the bustle.
- Kenjeran: For temple sunsets, head east to Kenjeran. It’s a bit out of the way, but it rewards with ocean air, seafood stalls and Sanggar Agung’s massive waterfront pagoda.
How much is Surabaya accommodation?
Surabaya might be Indonesia’s second-biggest city, but it’s far from the most expensive. You can nab a private room here for less than a Sydney breakfast. Even the fancier picks won’t burn through your budget. Accommodation stays wallet-friendly year-round, with only a slight uptick during school holidays or festive periods like Eid or Raya.
- Backpackers & guesthouses: From AU$12 per night. Simple beds near Gubeng Station or local warungs.
- Mid-range hotels: From AU$40 per night. Expect air conditioning, free breakfast, and good locations near malls or transport.
- Boutique & design hotels: From AU$70 per night. Often in revamped buildings with local artwork, greenery, or thoughtful extras.
- Luxury hotels: From AU$150 per night. Think infinity pools, city views, and in-house spas, especially around Tunjungan Plaza or central Darmo.
Top-rated hotels in Surabaya
- Hotel Majapahit Surabaya – MGallery: A slice of living history in the heart of Surabaya. This 1910 landmark has manicured courtyards, art deco details and a spa housed in an old Dutch colonial building. Just steps from Tunjungan Plaza and Jalan Tunjungan, it’s as central and serene as you can get.
- JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya: A five-star favourite for business and leisure alike. Expect marble bathrooms, a pool deck with skyline views, and six dining spots, including a Japanese teppanyaki grill. Right in the commercial core, it’s walkable to Grand City Mall and Gubeng Station.
- Bumi Surabaya City Resort: A rare urban oasis. This sprawling, resort-style property blends Javanese design with lush tropical gardens and koi ponds. It’s peaceful, polished, and just a short grab ride to both Darmo’s café strips and the colonial core.
- Grand Swiss-Belhotel Darmo: Comfort meets convenience here. Located near Bungkul Park and Darmo’s tree-lined avenues, this mid-range favourite offers rooftop views, a full breakfast spread and easy access to Surabaya’s creative enclaves.
- POP! Hotel Stasiun Kota Surabaya: Clean, colourful, and built for short stays, this budget pick is a favourite for rail travellers. Just around the corner from Surabaya Kota Station, with compact rooms and fast food options close by.
Tips for finding the perfect accommodation in Surabaya
- Pick your patch based on purpose: In Surabaya, where you stay, shapes your trip. Want nightlife, malls or colonial sights? Go City Centre. After something quieter? Darmo’s your go. Heading to Bromo? Gubeng puts you close to the tracks.
- Time it around travel, not crowds: Surabaya rarely draws tourist rushes like Bali, so prices stay stable. That said, avoid domestic holiday peaks like Eid for smoother traffic and better rates.
- Use filters for must-haves: Whether it’s a 24-hour front desk near the station or a pool near a park, Traveloka’s filters make it easy to match your stay with your plans—and patience.
- Check what’s actually walkable: Sidewalks are hit-or-miss in Surabaya, and big blocks can be deceiving. Always check hotel maps and plan around Grab access for shorter hops.