In summer 2025, the international travel platform Agoda released its ranking of Asia’s most affordable cities for holiday accommodation.
Topping the list was Surabaya, Indonesia, with average room rates around just US$35 (approximately Rp576,000) per night.
This is notably lower than alternatives like Tirupati in India and Hat Yai in Thailand, which followed closely behind with rates of about US$37 and US$39 respectively.
Agoda’s criteria focused on the average prices across its most popular cities in nine Asian markets, making Surabaya the clear winner in terms of value-conscious travel.
Culture, History, and Affordability
Surabaya’s appeal lies not only in its remarkably low accommodation costs, but also in its rich historical and cultural offerings.
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Heroes Monument and the House of Sampoerna, housed in preserved Dutch colonial architecture that offers an immersive glimpse into the local heritage.
For those enchanted by culinary adventures, the city’s Chinatown, especially lively around Kya‑Kya Street buzzes with affordable street eats like kwetiau Medan, bakmi, nasi campur, and babi kecap, all brimming with flavor yet easy on the wallet.
Accessibility and Local Charm
Getting around Surabaya is simple and cost-effective, thanks to an array of transportation options such as shared angkot minibuses, a reliable bus network, and app-based services like Gojek and Grab.
These options allow visitors to navigate from bustling markets to historic neighborhoods without stretching their budget.
The city’s sprawling commercial heart centers on avenues like Tunjungan Street, lined with heritage structures like Hotel Majapahit and colonial facades that hark back to its role in Indonesia’s independence struggle.
Nearby Tunjungan Plaza offers both shopping and entertainment, all under one roof, making for an accessible and vibrant urban experience.
Urban Sophistication
Surabaya is more than just a budget destination; it’s a thriving urban center known for its cleanliness and green initiatives.
The city has been repeatedly recognized with national and international awards for its environmental planning efforts, and its many parks, such as the UN‑recognized Bungkul Park, provide tranquil escapes within the cityscape.
Combined with its dense cultural tapestry, spanning traditional Javanese performing arts, distinctive local cuisine, and dynamic city life, Surabaya blends urban convenience with regional authenticity.
Perfect Base to Explore East Java
A visit to Surabaya offers a superb base for exploring more of East Java without compromising affordability. Its proximity to destinations like Mount Bromo and Madura Island makes it not only cost-effective to stay in but also easy to venture out from for enriching day trips.
In conclusion, Surabaya emerges not just as Asia’s cheapest city for summer stays, according to Agoda’s data, but as a vibrant melting pot where affordability and rich, authentic experiences converge.
With its balance of history, food, accessibility, and green urban design, Surabaya offers tremendous value and proves that budget-friendly travel doesn’t mean compromising quality or cultural immersion.
