East Java Tours: 2 Days Surabaya and Madura island Tours start from Surabaya

Experience the Best of Surabaya and Madura in 2 Days

Trying to cover Surabaya and Madura Island in just two days might sound ambitious, but this tour makes it feel manageable—and quite enjoyable. For $150 per person, you get a thoughtfully planned itinerary that hits key highlights, offers authentic local sights, and provides a comfortable and hassle-free way to explore East Java’s diverse treasures. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply love scenic drives, this tour could be a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of this vibrant region.

One thing we particularly appreciate is the inclusion of famous landmarks and lesser-known spots—like the Jaddih Hill’s white brick mining area or the historic Fort Van Den Bosch—giving a well-rounded glimpse of the area’s cultural and natural beauty. The tour’s pace seems balanced, offering enough time at each site without feeling rushed, which is essential when you’re trying to soak in local atmosphere.

However, a potential consideration is the early morning start—at 6:00 am—which might be a challenge if you’re not an early riser or if your hotel is a bit farther from the pickup point. Still, this early start is necessary to maximize your sightseeing time across two busy days.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured itinerary, want to see both cultural and scenic sites, and appreciate the convenience of door-to-door pickup and a dedicated guide. It’s ideal for those with a limited schedule but who still want to experience the highlights and authentic flavors of East Java and Madura.

Key Points

• Includes essential highlights: From bridges and hills to museums and forts, the tour hits a broad spectrum of attractions.
• Comfortable transportation: A private car ensures a smooth journey through sometimes busy roads, making the experience more relaxed.
• Authentic cultural insights: Visits like the Sampoerna Museum and Fort Van Den Bosch offer meaningful glimpses into local history and industry.
• Scenic spots: Jaddih Hill and Arosbaya limestone hills provide Instagram-worthy views and unique natural textures.
• Local flavor and shopping: Tunjungan Plaza offers time to explore, try local foods, or shop for souvenirs.
• Value for money: With all entrance tickets, guiding, and one night in a 4-star hotel included, the price reflects solid value for this comprehensive experience.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day East Java Tour

Day 1: Suramadu Bridge, Madura’s White Hills, and Surabaya’s Heart

The day kicks off early—around 6 am—with a pickup from your hotel, setting the tone for a busy day ahead. Traveling from Surabaya across the Suramadu National Bridge is a highlight in itself. Spanning the sea, the bridge offers sweeping views, and many guests find it an evocative experience to cross into Madura. The guide often shares snippets about Madura’s history and significance, making the crossing as educational as it is scenic.

Once on Madura, the tour visits Bukit Kapur Jaddih, a striking site for lovers of unusual landscapes. The white brick mining area looks almost otherworldly, especially with the pond in the middle—locals refer to it as the “Water of White Cave.” Here, visitors can wander around the white hills, take photos, and learn a bit about traditional mining practices. Many reviews mention how hypnotic the scenery is, with some describing it as a “must-see for any photography enthusiast.”

Next, the tour moves to Arosbaya Limestone Hill, another former mining site, now transformed into an Instagram hotspot. Its rugged, textured cliffs and the natural formations create a surreal environment perfect for exploration or just soaking in the views. Expect about an hour here to wander, shoot photos, and admire the landscape.

The afternoon shifts gears toward culture with a visit to the Sampoerna Museum. The building’s Dutch colonial architecture immediately transports you back to a different era. Inside, you’ll learn about the tobacco industry’s history in Indonesia, and the museum itself offers a glimpse into the heritage of Surabaya’s economic development. Many visitors find it both educational and visually appealing, especially for photography lovers.

A quick stop at Monkasel, the Submarine Museum, offers an intriguing look into Indonesia’s naval history. The submarine itself is quite photogenic, and walking around the vessel allows a tangible sense of maritime life from the 1950s. Guides often share fascinating stories about the submarine’s service history, making it more than just a static display.

Later, the group heads to Tunjungan Plaza, the biggest shopping mall in Surabaya. Here, you get several hours to browse local brands, indulge in Indonesian street food, or shop for souvenirs. Many reviews mention enjoying the variety of local and international cuisines available—perfect for a relaxed end to the day.

Day 2: Historic Forts and Scenic Rivers

The second day begins early again, with a 6 am pickup for a roughly 2-hour drive to Ngawi. The main attraction here is Fort Van Den Bosch, an old Dutch fort built in 1839. Sitting at the confluence of the Bengawan Solo and Madiun Rivers, the fort’s strategic location made it vital in colonial times. Today, its high embankments and relatively preserved structure make it a compelling site for history lovers—and many find it offers great photo opportunities.

The visit offers insights into colonial architecture and military history, providing a different perspective on Indonesia’s past. Reviewers mention that the fort’s strategic position and well-preserved state make it worth the early wake-up call, especially if you enjoy historical sites.

After exploring, the tour concludes with a drive back to Surabaya, where you’re dropped off at your hotel. The entire day is about 7 hours, including travel, exploration, and some downtime.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transport is via a private car, ensuring comfort and flexibility, especially during the longer travel legs. The vehicle accommodates up to six travelers—so it’s intimate but not crowded. The tour price covers all entrance fees, fuel, tolls, parking, and guide services, making it straightforward to budget. The inclusion of a 4-star hotel stay with breakfast adds a touch of luxury, especially after two busy days of sightseeing.

What’s particularly helpful is the guided aspect—your guide not only navigates but also shares cultural and historical insights that you might miss exploring on your own. Many travelers appreciate having a local guide who makes the story come alive.

However, be prepared for early mornings—6 am starts are standard—and a full schedule. The tour is designed for those who like a structured plan rather than wandering freely. Also, during Covid-19, all guests need to bring a recent negative rapid antigen test or Genose C19 test result, ensuring safety for everyone.

Food, Tips, and Extras

While the tour includes breakfast and bottled mineral water, lunch and dinner are not covered, giving you flexibility to try local cuisine at your own pace. Many reviews highlight how enjoying street food or local markets can be a highlight, especially around Tunjungan Plaza. Tips are not included but appreciated, especially for guides and drivers who enhance the experience.

Suitability and Recommendations

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of scenery, history, and shopping, and prefer the convenience of an organized day. It’s particularly good for first-timers wanting a broad overview or those with limited time who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour packs a lot into a relatively short window, balancing cultural, scenic, and leisure activities. The inclusion of Madura’s unique landscapes, Surabaya’s historical sites, and local market time makes it a well-rounded experience. For those who value authentic sights paired with comfort and ease, this tour delivers on all fronts.

The price of $150 offers a good deal when considering the hotel stay, transport, and entry fees, especially given the diverse itinerary. Whether you’re into history, scenery, or shopping, this tour provides a convenient way to see East Java’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

If you’re after a comprehensive, immersive, and hassle-free experience with a touch of adventure, this tour is well worth considering—especially if you’re eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or cruise port, making it easy to start your day without additional transportation worries.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
The tour begins early at 6:00 am, which is perfect for maximizing your sightseeing time, especially to avoid afternoon crowds at some sites.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance tickets for the stops listed—including Jaddih Hill, Arosbaya, Sampoerna Museum, Monkasel, and Fort Van Den Bosch—are included in the price.

How long does the drive between destinations take?
Expect about a 2-hour drive to Ngawi on day 2, with shorter trips between the Madura sites and Surabaya.

Can I customize this tour?
Given the structured itinerary and group size (maximum six travelers), customization options are limited but discussing specific interests with your guide may enhance your experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you’re traveling with very young children, especially given early mornings and long drives.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, and a camera. Also, remember the Covid-19 negative test result if required; packed water bottles and some cash for optional meals or shopping are advisable.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

Travelers craving an authentic taste of East Java, with diverse experiences from natural beauty to historical sites, will find this tour particularly satisfying. Its well-planned itinerary suits those wanting a rundown without the stress of logistics. The inclusion of a 4-star hotel stay elevates the experience, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate comfort after a day of exploration.

It’s also ideal for first-time visitors to Surabaya and Madura who want a guided experience, ensuring they don’t miss key sights or cultural insights. While the early mornings and full schedule might be a challenge for some, those who enjoy a busy, immersive trip will leave feeling they’ve truly seen a different side of Indonesia.

In essence, this 2-day East Java tour offers a balanced mix of scenic sites, history, culture, and shopping, all wrapped into an easy-to-book package. With solid value and a focus on authentic experiences, it’s a great choice for travelers eager to maximize their time in Surabaya and Madura.