Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, offers a diverse range of transportation options suitable for every type of traveller. Whether you prefer affordable public transport or private rides with modern conveniences, navigating the city is generally straightforward once you understand the local system.

The city combines traditional and modern modes of travel, from colourful angkots (shared minivans) and the eco-friendly Suroboyo Bus to popular ride-hailing services such as Grab and Gojek. For Malaysians, these options may feel familiar, as both the city layout and transport habits share similarities with Kuala Lumpur—though traffic can be more unpredictable, and motorbike taxis are a common sight.

Getting around Surabaya allows travellers to experience both its urban energy and authentic local life. With the right mix of planning and flexibility, exploring the city’s landmarks, markets, and culinary spots becomes an easy and enjoyable part of your journey.

🚖 Taxi Services

Taxis are one of the most common and straightforward ways to travel around Surabaya, especially for visitors who prefer comfort and privacy. They are widely available at Juanda International Airport, major hotels, shopping malls, and tourist attractions.

The most reliable taxi companies in the city include Blue Bird and Orenz Taxi, both known for their professionalism, clean vehicles, and use of fare meters. Blue Bird taxis, in particular, are highly recommended as they offer transparent pricing and courteous service similar to what many Malaysians may be used to in Kuala Lumpur.

It is advisable to ensure the meter is turned on before the journey begins. If a driver refuses to use the meter, politely request it or choose another taxi. Most drivers accept only cash payments in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), so carrying small denominations will make transactions easier. While English is not commonly spoken by taxi drivers, having your destination written in Bahasa Indonesia can help avoid confusion.

Below is an overview of taxi fares in Surabaya for reference:

Conversion rate: 1 MYR ≈ 3,400 IDR (subject to change).

For Malaysian travellers, taxis in Surabaya provide a safe and comfortable means of transportation, especially for those carrying luggage or travelling in groups. However, during peak hours, it may be faster and more economical to use Grab or Gojek, which offer upfront pricing and easy mobile bookings.

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🚗 Grab and Gojek Ride-Hailing

Source: Bisnis Tekno

Grab and Gojek are the two most popular ride-hailing apps in Surabaya, offering travellers a fast, safe, and affordable way to move around the city. Both platforms operate similarly to Grab in Malaysia, allowing you to book cars or motorbikes directly from your smartphone with transparent, fixed fares.

These services are particularly convenient for Malaysian travellers, as the Grab app can be used with a Malaysian account, while Gojek requires a quick sign-up using a local SIM card. Both apps provide several ride options — from standard cars and motorbikes to larger vehicles for groups making them suitable for solo travellers, couples, and families alike.

GrabCar is ideal for those who prefer comfort, air-conditioning, and privacy, while Gojek’s motorbike option (GoRide) offers a quick and efficient way to beat the city’s frequent traffic jams. Gojek also provides GoCar for passengers who prefer a car ride. Payments can be made in cash or through e-wallets such as GrabPay, GoPay, or OVO. However, to use e-wallets, you may need to link a local Indonesian number or card.

Below is a general guide to estimated fares and travel times for common routes:

Conversion rate: 1 MYR ≈ 3,400 IDR (subject to change).

Both Grab and Gojek are known for their reliability, transparent pricing, and convenience, which make them highly recommended for tourists. Ride-hailing is also significantly cheaper than using private taxis, and you can easily estimate travel times and fares before confirming your trip.

For Malaysian travellers, Grab is often the easiest option since the app interface and payment methods are familiar. However, trying Gojek can offer additional flexibility, especially if you need quick motorbike rides to navigate the city’s busy streets.

When using either service, it is advisable to:

• Double-check your pickup location before confirming the ride.
• Keep some cash (in small notes) handy in case e-wallet payment fails.
• Always wear a helmet if you are using Gojek’s motorbike service (helmets are provided).
• Avoid booking during heavy rain or peak hours to prevent surge pricing.

Grab and Gojek together offer the most efficient, safe, and affordable way to explore Surabaya — from shopping malls and cultural landmarks to street food areas and local markets.

🚌 Suroboyo Bus- Public Bus

Source: Wikipedia

The Suroboyo Bus is one of Surabaya’s most unique and eco-friendly public transportation systems. Launched by the city government, it is designed to encourage recycling and reduce traffic congestion. The bright red buses run on several key routes across the city, connecting important landmarks, shopping centres, and residential areas.

One of the most distinctive features of the Suroboyo Bus is its payment system — passengers can pay the fare using used plastic bottles or through electronic money cards such as Mandiri e-Money, Brizzi, or TapCash. This innovative approach makes it one of the most environmentally friendly transport options in Indonesia.

The buses are air-conditioned, clean, and safe, making them a comfortable choice for tourists who want to explore Surabaya affordably. Each bus is also equipped with CCTV, wheelchair access, and priority seats for women, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Below is a quick guide to the Suroboyo Bus routes and estimated fares:

Conversion rate: 1 MYR ≈ 3,400 IDR (subject to change).

To board the Suroboyo Bus, passengers can wait at designated bus stops marked with red signs and route maps. Payment can be made either by tapping your electronic money card at the entrance or by exchanging three used plastic bottles (1.5 litres) or six small bottles (600 ml) at official collection points before boarding.

For Malaysian travellers, the Suroboyo Bus offers a safe and budget-friendly way to move around the city while supporting a meaningful environmental cause. It is especially useful for sightseeing along Surabaya’s main roads, such as Basuki Rahmat Street, Tunjungan Street, and Joyoboyo Terminal.

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🚐 Angkot (Public Minivans)

The Angkot, short for Angkutan Kota (city transport), is one of Surabaya’s most traditional and affordable ways to get around. These small, colourful minivans operate along set routes throughout the city and are widely used by locals for daily commuting. For visitors, taking an Angkot offers an authentic local experience, although it may feel confusing at first due to the lack of fixed stops and schedules.

Angkots usually display route codes (letters and numbers) on their windshields, which indicate their operating areas. To board, simply wave your hand when you see one approaching, and tell the driver where you would like to get off. You can hop off anywhere along the route by saying “turun di sini” (stop here). Payment is made in cash, and you should always prepare small bills since drivers rarely have change.

The vehicles are simple and not air-conditioned, but fares are extremely cheap, making them a good choice for short city trips if you want to travel like a local.

Below is a guide to some of the main Angkot routes and their estimated fares:

Conversion rate: 1 MYR ≈ 3,400 IDR (subject to change).

While Angkots are one of the cheapest transport options in Surabaya, they can be less predictable and sometimes crowded during peak hours. Routes may not always be clearly marked in English, so asking locals or hotel staff for guidance before you travel is recommended.

For Malaysian travellers, taking an Angkot can be an enjoyable and memorable experience especially if you are looking to experience the everyday rhythm of Surabaya life. However, for convenience and comfort, services like Grab or Gojek are generally better suited for longer or less familiar routes.

🚆 Train Travel Between Cities

Source: The Jakarta Post

Surabaya serves as one of the most important railway hubs in Indonesia, connecting major cities across the island of Java. Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to explore other destinations from Surabaya, offering travellers a reliable alternative to long bus rides or domestic flights.

The city has two main train stations — Surabaya Gubeng Station and Surabaya Pasar Turi Station.

• Gubeng Station mainly handles trains heading south and east, such as to Malang, Yogyakarta, and Banyuwangi.
• Pasar Turi Station serves routes to the west and north, including Jakarta and Semarang.

Indonesian trains are generally clean, punctual, and well-maintained. There are three main classes of service:

1. Executive Class (Eksekutif) – Air-conditioned with spacious seats, ideal for long journeys.
2. Business Class (Bisnis) – Comfortable with standard seating and air-conditioning.
3. Economy Class (Ekonomi) – Affordable and basic, popular among local travellers.

Tickets can be easily purchased at train stations, through the KAI Access app, or via online booking platforms. It is recommended to book early, especially during weekends and public holidays, as trains tend to sell out quickly.

Below is a guide to popular train routes from Surabaya, including estimated fares and travel times:

Conversion rate: 1 MYR ≈ 3,400 IDR (subject to change).

For Malaysian travellers, train journeys in Indonesia offer a pleasant balance between comfort and cost. Executive class is highly recommended for longer distances, providing air-conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard refreshments at a reasonable price. The trains also feature restrooms and designated luggage storage areas.

If you plan to continue to Bali, you can take the train from Surabaya Gubeng to Banyuwangi, followed by a short ferry ride across the Bali Strait to Gilimanuk Port, a scenic and convenient overland route between Java and Bali.

Travelling by train in Indonesia not only saves money but also allows you to experience the country’s beautiful landscapes, from rice fields and volcanic hills to charming small towns along the way.

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🚙 Car Rental and Private Driver Services

For travellers who value comfort, flexibility, and privacy, renting a car in Surabaya is an excellent option. Car rental services are available at Juanda International Airport, major hotels, and through reputable online platforms such as Trip.com or local travel agencies.

Visitors can choose to rent a car with or without a driver, depending on their level of confidence in navigating local roads. However, for most Malaysian travellers, it is strongly recommended to hire a car with a driver. Driving in Surabaya can be challenging due to heavy traffic, unfamiliar road rules, and the local driving style, which tends to be more spontaneous and less structured compared to Malaysia.

Hiring a driver also provides the added advantage of local knowledge — drivers can suggest efficient routes, popular attractions, and good places to eat. Most drivers are polite, punctual, and accustomed to assisting foreign travellers.

Below is a guide to typical car rental rates in Surabaya:

Conversion rate: 1 MYR ≈ 3,400 IDR (subject to change).

Rental prices typically include basic insurance, and additional charges may apply for overtime, tolls, or parking. If you plan to drive yourself, ensure you possess an International Driving Permit (IDP), as Malaysian licences alone are not officially recognised in Indonesia.

For multi-day trips or excursions outside the city, such as to Malang, Bromo, or Banyuwangi, hiring a car with a driver offers the best balance of comfort, safety, and convenience. Many local drivers also act as informal guides, helping travellers explore attractions at their own pace without the stress of navigating or parking.

Overall, using a private car service allows Malaysian visitors to experience Surabaya and its surroundings with ease and enjoying a flexible schedule and the comfort of door-to-door travel.

💳 Money and Payment in Surabaya

Understanding how payments work in Surabaya will help Malaysian travellers navigate the city smoothly and avoid unnecessary inconveniences. While modern payment methods such as credit cards and e-wallets are becoming more common, cash remains essential in many places especially small shops, traditional markets, and local food stalls.

🏦 Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available at Juanda International Airport, major shopping malls, and authorised money changers across the city. It is advisable to exchange a small amount at the airport for transportation and small expenses, then exchange larger amounts at licensed money changers in the city for better rates.

Banks such as Bank Central Asia (BCA), Bank Mandiri, and Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) also offer currency exchange services. Always check the rates and make sure to keep your exchange receipts.

💡 Tip: Avoid changing money on the street or with unlicensed agents to prevent counterfeit or short-counted notes.

🏧 ATMs and Cash Withdrawal

ATMs are widely available throughout Surabaya in shopping malls, convenience stores, and near hotels. Malaysian travellers can withdraw cash using Visa, MasterCard, or Cirrus-enabled debit or credit cards. Withdrawal fees typically range from IDR 20,000–50,000 (RM 6–15) per transaction, depending on your home bank.

To avoid issues, always choose ATMs located inside secure areas (such as malls or banks) and notify your bank before travelling to prevent card blocking.

💳 Credit and Debit Cards

Major credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted at upscale hotels, restaurants, and large retail outlets. However, many smaller shops and food stalls still prefer cash payments.

Before using your card, confirm with the cashier whether card payments are accepted, as some places may require a minimum spend or add a small service charge.

📱 E-Wallets and Digital Payments

Digital payments through GoPay, OVO, and DANA are becoming increasingly common, especially in urban areas. These platforms are widely used for ride-hailing (Grab, Gojek), food delivery, and retail purchases.

However, foreign travellers may find it difficult to activate local e-wallets, as registration often requires an Indonesian phone number and bank account. For convenience, Malaysians can continue using credit or debit cards for online bookings and hotel payments.

🪙 Tipping Practices

Tipping is not mandatory in Indonesia but is always appreciated. In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is common if service is not already included in the bill. For hotel staff or drivers, a small tip of IDR 10,000–20,000 (RM 3–6) is considered polite.

When travelling around Surabaya, it is highly recommended that Malaysian visitors carry small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Many small shops, street vendors, and local eateries often struggle to provide change for large bills, so having smaller notes makes transactions quicker and more convenient. For added convenience, consider using Grab or Gojek for cashless payments whenever possible. These ride-hailing apps display the fare in advance, ensuring transparency and helping travellers avoid overcharging. They are also generally safer and more reliable than hailing taxis from the street.

It is important to note that foreign currencies such as Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) or U.S. Dollars (USD) are not accepted for everyday purchases in Indonesia. All transactions must be made in Indonesian Rupiah, so make sure to exchange enough cash before exploring the city. Plus, always practice good money management and safety habits. Keep your cash and cards in different places such as your wallet, handbag, and hotel safe to reduce the risk of loss or theft.

Overall, Surabaya’s payment system is a blend of traditional and modern methods. While cash remains king for daily spending, credit cards and digital wallets are steadily gaining popularity. For Malaysian visitors, carrying sufficient Rupiah, along with a working card for emergencies, ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

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