Juanda International Airport is about 20 km south of central Surabaya. The drive takes 30-45 minutes via the Waru toll road, passing through East Java's industrial outskirts before reaching the city's busy commercial core.

About Surabaya City Center

Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city and the gritty, energetic capital of East Java. The city is known as 'Kota Pahlawan' (City of Heroes) for its fierce resistance during the Battle of Surabaya in 1945, commemorated at the Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan) and the 10 November Museum. The Arab Quarter (Kampung Arab) and Chinatown offer atmospheric wandering through narrow alleys and historic shophouses.

Surabaya's food scene is legendary among Indonesians—the city claims to have the best rawon (black beef soup), rujak cingur (fruit and beef salad), and sate Madura. The Tunjungan Plaza area serves as the modern commercial center, while the House of Sampoerna (a clove cigarette museum in a Dutch colonial building) is the city's most visited attraction. Surabaya is also the main gateway to Mount Bromo and the Ijen Crater.

Nearby Landmarks

Tugu Pahlawan House of Sampoerna Tunjungan Plaza Suramadu Bridge

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit arrivals and find the DAMRI bus counter. 2. Board the DAMRI bus to Purabaya or Tunjungan route. 3. Ride approximately 45 minutes to the city center. 4. Take a short Grab ride to your final destination.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport. Grab and Gojek operate around the clock, with rides to the city center costing approximately 80,000-120,000 IDR ($5-8) at night. DAMRI airport buses run until about 9 PM.

Luggage Tips

Use Grab or Gojek car services for comfortable luggage transport. DAMRI buses have luggage space below. Avoid motorcycle taxis (ojek) if you have more than a small backpack.

Accessibility

Airport taxis and Grab cars accommodate wheelchairs in the trunk. DAMRI buses have steps and are not wheelchair accessible. Surabaya's sidewalks are often uneven or obstructed by street vendors. Pre-arrange accessible transport through your hotel.