Sidoarjo
Introduction
Located in East Java, Sidoarjo Regency serves as a vital component of the Gerbangkertosusila metropolitan area. Situated just south of Surabaya, you will find it shares borders with Gresik, Pasuruan, Mojokerto, and the Madura Strait.
While it is the geographically smallest regency in the province, Sidoarjo is densely populated. Its location makes it an integral part of the surrounding metropolitan region.
Before you go
Prepare for a tropical monsoon climate when planning your visit. You can expect periods of moderate to little rainfall during the months of May through November, while the season from December to April brings heavy rainfall.
Getting there
You can reach the area by rail via Sidoarjo Railway Station, located on Jalan Diponegoro in Lemahputro. Daily local or commuter trains provide access from nearby cities including Bojonegoro, Lamongan, Surabaya, and Pasuruan.
Getting around
You can navigate Sidoarjo using the Gojek ride-hailing service, which offers transportation options for both motorbikes and cars.
Where to stay
You can choose from various accommodations that offer convenient amenities for your stay in Sidoarjo. Select a hotel with an outdoor pool to relax after exploring the area.
- Stay at a property located near a shopping mall and within walking distance of Alun-Alun Sidoarjo city park.
- Choose a nearby option situated in the Buduran area.
Food & drink
Savor the local flavors of Sidoarjo by sampling traditional snacks and hearty regional dishes. You can enjoy kue lumpur bakar, a roasted sweet cake, or try ote-ote Porong, which is a fritter filled with minced meat and vegetables. For a savory meal, seek out lontong kupang, a dish consisting of rice cakes served in a clam soup.
When you need a caffeine fix, visit the local coffee shops to enjoy a cup of milk coffee.
What to see and do
Explore the region's rich history by visiting several ancient temples and specialized museums. You can explore the Majapahit era heritage at Pari Temple, a stone relic from the reign of King Hayam Wuruk, or visit Tawangalun Temple and Pamotan Temple. For those interested in history and science, Museum Mpu Tantular houses collections ranging from numismatics to archaeology, while the naval aviation museum provides insight into military aviation.
You can enjoy various recreational activities across the area:
- Experience a day of fishing at Delta Fishing or Monstero Fishing Park.
- Visit Suncity Waterpark for a day of swimming.
- Visit several local mosques, including Masjid Agung Sidoarjo and Masjid Cordoba Sidoarjo.
Three days in Sidoarjo
Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the local area and experiencing the atmosphere of the region. You might start near the Alun Sidoarjo to get your bearings before heading out to see more of the surroundings.
Day two, you can travel further to visit the Majapahit Pari Temple, where you can reflect on the history of King Hayam Wuruk. This provides a deeper connection to the heritage of the area beyond the modern streets.
Day three, you can spend your final day navigating through local districts like Buduran or Porong. You can also take time to savor the local flavors as you conclude your stay in Sidoarjo.