Tunjungan, Surabaya Travel Guide

Explore Tunjungan: Surabaya's vibrant neighborhood where history meets modernity, offering a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Welcome to Tunjungan, the bustling and lively neighborhood located in the heart of Surabaya, Indonesia. Known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, Tunjungan offers tourists a unique glimpse into the city's cultural and commercial life. As you walk through the streets, you will be greeted by an eclectic mix of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers, reflecting Surabaya's dynamic growth and historical heritage. Tunjungan is home to the famous Tunjungan Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in Indonesia. Here, you can indulge in a shopping spree, enjoy a meal at a variety of restaurants, or catch the latest movie at the cinema. The plaza is a hub of activity, offering something for everyone, from luxury brands to local souvenirs. For those interested in history, a visit to the nearby historic Hotel Majapahit is a must. This iconic hotel, originally built in 1910, played a significant role in Indonesia's struggle for independence. Stroll through its elegant gardens and learn about the events that shaped the nation's history. Additionally, Tunjungan's streets are lined with charming cafes, street vendors, and cultural landmarks, making it a perfect place for leisurely exploration.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tunjungan.

Visit Tunjungan Plaza early in the day to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the shopping experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the neighborhood is best explored on foot, allowing you to discover hidden gems.
Don't miss the traditional food stalls around Tunjungan for a taste of authentic Indonesian cuisine.
Carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated, as the tropical climate can be quite warm.

Explore Tunjungan: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Tunjungan

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Siola Surabaya Museum

Explore Surabaya's cultural legacy at the Siola Surabaya Museum, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and local heritage.

4.6

Statue of Gubernur Suryo

Discover the Statue of Gubernur Suryo, a monumental tribute to East Java's heritage, surrounded by lush gardens and rich history in Surabaya.

4.5

Tunjungan Romansa

Explore Tunjungan Romansa, a stunning tourist attraction in Surabaya, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

4.8

Taman Gantung Tunjungan

Discover the tranquil beauty of Taman Gantung Tunjungan, a garden oasis in Surabaya offering vibrant landscapes and peaceful escapes.

4.4

Best landmarks in Tunjungan

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Tunjungan Plaza

Experience the bustling atmosphere of Tunjungan Plaza, Surabaya's premier shopping destination with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options.

4.7

Monumen Tugu Pahlawan dan Museum Sepuluh Nopember Surabaya

Explore Surabaya's rich history at Monumen Tugu Pahlawan and Museum Sepuluh Nopember, a tribute to Indonesia's path to independence.

4.7

Tunjungan Plaza 6

Discover Tunjungan Plaza 6, Surabaya's largest shopping mall, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together to create an unforgettable experience.

4.7

Siola Surabaya Museum

Explore the Siola Surabaya Museum, a cultural hub showcasing Surabaya's rich history and vibrant heritage through engaging exhibits and artifacts.

4.6

Best restaurants in Tunjungan

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Marugame Udon, Tunjungan Plaza

Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Marugame Udon in Tunjungan Plaza—your go-to spot for delicious udon noodles and tempura in Surabaya.

4.7

bebek hitam alas daun

Experience authentic Indonesian flavors at Bebek Hitam Alas Daun in Surabaya – where every dish tells a story.

4.4

Taste Van Java - Tunjungan Plaza 5

Indulge in authentic Javanese cuisine at Taste Van Java in Surabaya – where every dish tells a story.

3.9

GIOI - Tunjungan Plaza 5

Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine at GIOI in Tunjungan Plaza 5, where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.

4.6

Best bars in Tunjungan

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Our Bar

Discover the vibrant culinary and musical experience at Our Bar, the ultimate grill and live music destination in Surabaya.

4.6

COLORS PUB & RESTAURANT

Discover the lively ambiance of COLORS PUB & RESTAURANT in Surabaya, where great food, drinks, and live music come together for an unforgettable night.

4.6

Inul Vizta

Experience the ultimate karaoke night at Inul Vizta, where great music and fun collide in the heart of Surabaya.

4.2

Hacienda Mexican Bar & Grill

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Hacienda Mexican Bar & Grill, a culinary gem in Surabaya, perfect for food lovers seeking an authentic dining experience.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Tunjungan

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

W Super Club Basra Surabaya

Experience the electrifying nightlife at W Super Club Basra, Surabaya's top lounge and bar, where unforgettable memories are made.

4.8

Kowloon Palace International Club

Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite Asian cuisine at Kowloon Palace International Club, the ultimate nightlife experience in Surabaya.

4.4

Top Ten Club Coyote Bar

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Top Ten Club Coyote Bar, Surabaya's leading disco club with electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

VERTIQUE CLUB

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Vertique Club, Surabaya's premier bar and adult entertainment destination, where unforgettable memories await you.

4.4

Best shops in Tunjungan

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Tunjungan Plaza 6

Discover Tunjungan Plaza 6, the ultimate shopping destination in Surabaya, where local culture meets modern retail and dining experiences.

4.7

Tunjungan Plaza

Discover Tunjungan Plaza in Surabaya – a bustling shopping paradise with diverse dining and entertainment options for every traveler.

4.8

Matahari Department Store (Tunjungan Plaza)

Experience the ultimate shopping adventure at Matahari Department Store in Surabaya's Tunjungan Plaza, where fashion meets affordability.

4.6

UNIQLO TUNJUNGAN PLAZA 3 Surabaya

Explore the latest fashion trends at UNIQLO Tunjungan Plaza 3, Surabaya's premier clothing store for stylish and affordable apparel.

4.7

Explore Tunjungan on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Tunjungan, mapped for you.

Tunjungan Essentials

Tunjungan is centrally located in Surabaya, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. You can reach Tunjungan by taking a taxi or using ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab. If you're coming from Surabaya's Gubeng Train Station, it’s just a short 15-minute taxi ride. Public buses and angkots (minibuses) also frequently connect Tunjungan with various parts of the city, making it convenient for travelers.
Tunjungan is well-connected by public transport. The local bus system operates routes through the area, and angkots can be flagged down along major streets. For a unique experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the neighborhood at a leisurely pace, as many attractions are within cycling distance. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available, providing an easy option for getting around.
Tunjungan is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in busy markets and shopping areas. Be cautious in poorly lit streets at night and avoid displaying valuables. While most of Tunjungan is safe, areas around the outskirts may have higher crime rates—exercise caution when wandering off the main streets.
In case of an emergency, dial the local emergency number 112 for police assistance. Hospitals and clinics are available in and around Tunjungan, with the RSUD Dr. Soetomo being one of the larger hospitals. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops in such places. Religion: Do respect local customs, and when visiting mosques, ensure to wear appropriate attire. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers, but don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite handshake; a smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try street food, but don’t drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead.
To experience Tunjungan like a local, visit the historic Tunjungan Plaza for shopping and dining. Explore the nearby traditional markets for authentic Indonesian snacks and handicrafts. Engage with local vendors, as they often share stories about the culture and history of Surabaya. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local dishes such as rawon (beef soup) and rujak (fruit salad) at street stalls. Take time to enjoy the vibrant street art that adorns many buildings in the area.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Tunjungan

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tunjungan. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [se-la-mat ting-gal]
- YesYa
  [ya]
- NoTidak
  [ti-dak]
- Please/You're welcomeSilakan
  [si-la-kan]
- Thank youTerima kasih
  [te-ri-ma ka-sih]
- Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [ma-af]
- How are you?Apa kabar?
  [a-pa ka-bar]
- Fine. And you?Baik. Bagaimana denganmu?
  [ba-ik. ba-gai-ma-na den-gan-mu]
- Do you speak English?Apakah anda bisa berbicara bahasa Inggris?
  [a-pa-kah an-da bi-sa ber-bi-ca-ra ba-ha-sa Ing-gris]
- I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
  [sa-ya ti-dak men-ger-ti]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, silakan
  [sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, si-la-kan]
- I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sa-ya ti-dak ma-kan da-ging]
- Cheers!Selamat minum!
  [se-la-mat mi-num]
- I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, silakan
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, si-la-kan]
- Help!Tolong!
  [to-long]
- Go away!Pergi!
  [per-gi]
- Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
  [pang-gil po-li-si]
- Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
  [pang-gil dok-ter]
- I'm lostSaya tersesat
  [sa-ya ter-se-sat]
- I'm illSaya sakit
  [sa-ya sa-kit]
- I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-be-li...]
- I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat-lihat
  [sa-ya han-ya me-li-hat-li-hat]
- How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
- That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
- Can you lower the price?Bisakah anda menurunkan harganya?
  [bi-sa-kah an-da me-nu-run-kan har-ga-nya]
- What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
  [jam be-ra-pa se-ka-rang]
- It's one o'clockJam satu
  [jam sa-tu]
- Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
  [se-ten-gah (se-pu-luh)]
- MorningPagi
  [pa-gi]
- AfternoonSore
  [so-re]
- EveningMalam
  [ma-lam]
- YesterdayKemarin
  [ke-ma-rin]
- TodayHari ini
  [ha-ri i-ni]
- TomorrowBesok
  [be-sok]
- 1Satu
  [sa-tu]
- 2Dua
  [du-a]
- 3Tiga
  [ti-ga]
- 4Empat
  [em-pat]
- 5Lima
  [li-ma]
- 6Enam
  [e-nam]
- 7Tujuh
  [tu-juh]
- 8Delapan
  [de-la-pan]
- 9Sembilan
  [sem-bi-lan]
- 10Sepuluh
  [se-pu-luh]
- Where's a/the...?Di mana...
  [di ma-na]
- What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
  [a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bisakah anda menunjukkan kepada saya (di peta)?
  [bi-sa-kah an-da me-nun-juk-kan ke-pa-da sa-ya (di pe-ta)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kapan (bus) berikutnya?
  [ka-pan (bus) be-ru-ti-knya]
- A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke ....)
  [ti-ket (ke)]

History of Tunjungan

Tunjungan, located in the heart of Surabaya, was significantly developed during the Dutch colonial period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As Surabaya emerged as a vital trading hub, Tunjungan became a prominent area characterized by colonial architecture, including the historic Tunjungan Plaza, which reflects the European influence of that era.
In the 1930s, Tunjungan played a pivotal role in the modernization of Surabaya. The establishment of businesses, hotels, and entertainment venues transformed the neighborhood into a central social and commercial hub. This period saw the construction of the iconic Hotel Majapahit, which became a symbol of luxury and elegance.
During World War II, Tunjungan, like much of Indonesia, experienced the harsh realities of Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945. The occupation led to significant changes in the local economy and society, as Japanese authorities imposed strict controls and utilized local resources for the war effort. The impact of this period is still remembered by residents through various historical narratives.
Following Indonesia's declaration of independence in 1945, Tunjungan became a focal point for nationalist movements. It witnessed significant political activity and demonstrations as the local population sought to assert their rights and identity. The neighborhood's vibrant community spirit was instrumental in shaping the post-colonial narrative of Surabaya.
Today, Tunjungan is a blend of history and modernity, serving as a cultural hub that showcases Surabaya's rich heritage. The area hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions, and traditional markets, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the neighborhood over the decades. The blend of modern shopping complexes with historic sites illustrates the ongoing evolution of Tunjungan within the urban landscape of Surabaya.