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Getting Around Surabaya

Getting Around Surabaya

Surabaya Java, Indonesia Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Surabaya has a developing public transportation system, mainly relying on buses and minibuses rather than a metro or tram. The city has no underground metro system or tram network. Its public transport relies on road-based vehicles.

Buses (Trans Semanggi Suroboyo): Surabaya's modern public bus system. Features air-conditioned buses on designated routes, offering a more comfortable and structured public transport experience. The system is expanding.

Angkot & Ticketing

  • Angkot (Public Minibuses): Privately operated minibuses, often brightly colored, that follow specific routes. A traditional form of local transport. Flag them down anywhere along their route.
  • Trans Semanggi Suroboyo Fares: Cashless payment with e-money card (Flazz BCA, Mandiri e-money, BNI TapCash, or BRI Brizzi). Purchase and top up cards at mini-marts or bank branches. Fares are fixed (e.g., IDR 6,200 for adults, IDR 2,000 for students).
  • Angkot Fares: Pay cash directly to the driver. Fares are usually fixed based on distance or route segment, typically IDR 5,000 - 10,000. Confirm the fare with the driver before boarding for longer distances.
  • Operating Hours: Trans Semanggi Suroboyo operates from early morning (5-6 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM). Angkot operates throughout the day into late evening. Frequency is generally good.

Bus Routes

Trans Semanggi Suroboyo routes connect major city areas, including Bungurasih Bus Terminal, Joyoboyo, Darmo, and various shopping centers.

Angkot Flexibility

Angkot routes are denoted by letters and numbers. Flag them down anywhere. Ask locals or drivers for guidance.

Accessibility Notes

Public buses and Angkots generally have limited accessibility for mobility challenges. Steps are usually involved. Angkots are not accessible for wheelchairs.

Travel Smart with eSIMs

Convenient Connectivity
  • Stay connected affordably. Purchase an eSIM from Airalo before you arrive.
  • Avoid roaming charges with local data plans.
  • Quick and easy activation upon landing.
Enhanced Travel Experience
  • Access maps, ride-hailing, and translation apps without Wi-Fi.
  • Keep your physical SIM slot free for your home country SIM.
  • Multiple package options for various travel durations.

Essential Travel Tools

Currency Converter

Quickly convert IDR to your home currency.

Offline Maps

Navigate without internet access.

Translation App

Overcome language barriers.

Local Contacts

Store embassy and emergency numbers.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient and generally affordable options for getting around Surabaya, especially for direct routes or when carrying luggage. They provide a more private and comfortable alternative to public buses.

Licensed Taxis

  • Identification: Licensed taxis are typically blue or white. The Blue Bird Group (distinct blue cars and bird logo) is the most reputable and reliable taxi company. They are known for using meters and providing good service.
  • Hailing: Hail licensed taxis on the street, find them at designated taxi stands (common at shopping malls, hotels, and major transport hubs), or book them via phone or through the Blue Bird app.
  • Typical Fares: Starting fare usually around IDR 7,000-10,000. Approximately IDR 5,000-7,000 per kilometer. Rates are transparent when the meter is used. Payment is with cash.
  • Safety: Generally safe, especially using reputable companies like Blue Bird. Insist on using the meter to avoid potential overcharging.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Gojek: An Indonesian-born "super-app." GoRide (motorcycle taxi, fast in traffic), GoCar (car taxi service), GoFood (food delivery), GoMart (grocery delivery).
  • Grab: A Singapore-born competitor, Grab offers similar services to Gojek: GrabBike, GrabCar, GrabFood, GrabMart.
  • Payment: Cash directly to the driver for each ride or link a credit/debit card to the app for cashless payments. Linking a card offers convenience.
  • Safety: Generally safe. Drivers are registered, rides tracked. Confirm driver's name, vehicle model, and license plate. For motorcycle taxis, drivers provide a Helmet for your use.

Rental Options

  • Car Rental: To rent a car and drive it yourself, an International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid national driver's license are needed. Passport and major credit card for deposit are also required.
  • Self-driving in Surabaya is generally not recommended for drivers inexperienced with Southeast Asian traffic conditions. Many foreign visitors find a private driver more convenient and safer.
  • Companies: Major international car rental companies (e.g., Avis, Hertz) have a presence. Local Indonesian rental companies also offer services.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Less common for direct rent within Surabaya city compared to more tourist-centric islands. Some smaller guesthouses might offer rentals.
  • Safety: Only rent a motorcycle if an experienced rider and comfortable navigating heavy, chaotic urban traffic. Wearing a helmet is mandatory. Accidents involving motorcycles are common.
  • Bicycle: Limited availability of dedicated bicycle sharing programs. Some hotels may offer bicycles. Cycling on main roads can be hazardous.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws

Drive on the left side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in a car. Helmets are mandatory for motorcyclists.

Road Conditions

Major roads are generally well-maintained. Smaller roads can have uneven surfaces or potholes. Traffic congestion is severe during peak hours.

Parking

Parking is available at shopping malls, hotels, and designated public parking lots, usually for a fee. Street parking is limited and often requires a local attendant.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer intimate ways to explore Surabaya, revealing details missed from a vehicle. Surabaya features a few specialized transportation options that cater to tourists or offer unique local experiences.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Tunjungan Street: This historic and revitalized street in the city center is excellent for walking. It features beautifully preserved colonial architecture, modern shopping malls, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Old City (Kota Tua): The Old City area, with its narrow streets and historical buildings, is best explored on foot. This district allows immersion in Surabaya's diverse heritage, including its Chinese and Arab quarters.
  • Parks: Surabaya boasts numerous well-maintained parks. Bungkul Park (Taman Bungkul) and Flora Park (Taman Flora Bratang) offer green spaces, walking paths, and a relaxed environment away from the city's hustle.
  • Walking Tour Options: Several local tour operators offer guided walking tours focusing on specific themes, like Surabaya's history or culinary experiences. Self-guided walks using maps are also possible.

Cycling & Pedestrian Safety

  • Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety: Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy traffic, aggressive driving, and a general lack of cyclist awareness. It is safer for casual cycling within city parks or along quieter neighborhood streets. Wear a helmet and bright clothing for visibility.
  • No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists: Major arterial roads with heavy, fast-moving traffic are generally not suitable. While sidewalks exist, they can be uneven, narrow, or obstructed by vendors. Always stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Night Safety: Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit or deserted areas, as general urban safety precautions apply.
  • Tip: When walking in crowded market areas or on busy sidewalks, keep your bag close to your body and valuables out of sight. This simple practice deters pickpockets.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Suroboyo Bus

The Surabaya City Sightseeing Bus, an unique public service. Payment by bringing plastic bottle waste, promoting environmental awareness.

Covers major landmarks.

River Transport

Water transportation within Surabaya's rivers or canals is limited for tourist purposes. Not a main tourist option for sightseeing or regular commuting.

Local traditional boats (perahu) exist.

Accessibility Services

Public transportation systems (buses, trains) have limited accessibility features. Many public spaces, especially older buildings and traditional markets, lack ramps or elevators.

Specialized accessible vehicles are rare.

Considerations for Travelers

Suroboyo Bus & Angkot
  • Consider utilizing the Suroboyo Bus for sightseeing. It offers a convenient and environmentally conscious way to see the city's highlights, and the payment method is a conversation starter.
  • The Angkot (public minibuses) mentioned previously serve as an unique, informal local transport system that visitors might find novel compared to their home countries.
  • Pedestrian-friendly areas include Tunjungan Street, the Old City (Kota Tua), and various city parks like Bungkul Park.
Safety & Planning
  • For those with mobility challenges, plan your itinerary carefully, focusing on newer attractions, shopping malls, and hotels which generally offer better accessibility.
  • Use Google Maps for route suggestions, but always cross-reference with local information or ask residents for the most current advice, especially for Angkot routes.
  • During peak hours (morning and evening commutes, roughly 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM), traffic can significantly slow down all forms of public transport. Plan extra travel time accordingly.

Important Safety Advisory for Local Transport

  • Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit or deserted areas. General urban safety precautions apply.
  • Be cautious of traffic when walking or cycling; drivers may not always expect pedestrians or cyclists.
  • Always prioritize safety over convenience, especially when navigating unfamiliar areas or during late hours.
  • Report any suspicious activity to local authorities immediately.
  • Motorcycle ride-hailing provides speed but comes with inherent risks; riders receive Helmets.
  • Self-driving is not recommended for most tourists due to challenging traffic.
  • Public transport may not cater to all accessibility needs.
  • When using taxis, confirm meter use or agree on a fare beforehand to avoid issues.

Walking & Cycling Continued

Walking and cycling offer intimate ways to explore Surabaya, revealing details missed from a vehicle.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas & Tours

  • Tunjungan Street: Historic and revitalized, excellent for walking, featuring colonial architecture and modern amenities.
  • Old City (Kota Tua): Best explored on foot, immersing visitors in Surabaya's diverse heritage including Chinese and Arab quarters.
  • Parks: Bungkul Park and Flora Park offer green spaces and walking paths, ideal for leisurely strolls.
  • Walking Tour Options: Guided tours on history, architecture, or culinary experiences are available. Self-guided walks using maps are also possible.

Cycling & Pedestrian Safety

  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy traffic.
  • Safety for Cyclists: Safer for casual cycling within city parks or quieter neighborhood streets. Wear a helmet and bright clothing for visibility.
  • No-Go Areas: Major arterial roads with heavy traffic are generally not suitable for walking or cycling due to safety concerns.
  • Sidewalk Conditions: Sidewalks can be uneven, narrow, or obstructed by street vendors, parked motorcycles, or construction. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Suroboyo Bus

Explore city landmarks by paying with plastic bottle waste, an unique and eco-conscious method.

Angkot Experience

Experience Surabaya's local shared mini-bus transport system, offering a flexible and authentic local ride.

Accessibility Planning

For mobility challenges, focus on newer attractions and hotels which generally offer better accessibility. Consider a companion or local assistance.

Walking & Cycling Tips

Pedestrian Guidelines
  • Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Tunjungan Street, Old City, and city parks are excellent for walking.
  • Safety Awareness: In crowded market areas or on busy sidewalks, keep your bag close to your body and valuables out of sight. This practice deters pickpockets.
  • Uneven Surfaces: Sidewalks can be uneven, narrow, or obstructed. Remain aware of surroundings.
Cycling Guidelines
  • Limited Lanes: Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited.
  • Safety Gear: If cycling, wear a helmet and bright clothing for visibility.
  • Preferred Areas: Safer for casual cycling within city parks or quieter neighborhood streets rather than main roads with heavy traffic.

Local Transport Tip

Consider utilizing the Suroboyo Bus for sightseeing. It offers a convenient and environmentally conscious way to see the city's highlights, and the payment method is a conversation starter.

For efficient ride-hailing, pinpoint your location accurately on the map within the app.

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