Ampel Arab Quarter Surabaya
A vibrant cultural hub in Surabaya, known for its Middle Eastern markets, delicious street food, and the historic Ampel Mosque.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Market buzzes with food stalls
Ampel Arab Quarter Surabaya
Best Time
Market buzzes with food stalls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant cultural hub in Surabaya, known for its Middle Eastern markets, delicious street food, and the historic Ampel Mosque.
"You'll find the variety of arab food, some fresh fruits, songkok, batik, etc. good adventures!!"
Modest Dress Code Essential
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Sleeved shirts and below-the-knee wear are recommended. :dress:
Taste the Unique Snacks
Try the large Middle Eastern snacks and local favorites like Roti Maryam. :foodie:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arab Street Food Delights
Indulge in authentic Middle Eastern snacks and traditional Indonesian treats like Roti Maryam.
Middle Eastern Goods Galore
Discover a wide array of dates, perfumes, Islamic clothing, and traditional fabrics.
Vibrant Bazaar Atmosphere
Experience the lively energy of this cultural hub, especially during evening bazaars.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Modestly for Respect
Embrace the Evening Buzz
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress Code Essential
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Sleeved shirts and below-the-knee wear are recommended. :dress:
Taste the Unique Snacks
Try the large Middle Eastern snacks and local favorites like Roti Maryam. :foodie:
Bargain for Perfumes & Fabrics
Find great deals on Arab perfumes and Middle Eastern fabrics. :shopping_bags:
Explore Pasar Pegirian
Don't miss the diverse offerings at Pasar Pegirian, open into the evening. :shopping_cart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress Code Essential
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Sleeved shirts and below-the-knee wear are recommended. :dress:
Taste the Unique Snacks
Try the large Middle Eastern snacks and local favorites like Roti Maryam. :foodie:
Bargain for Perfumes & Fabrics
Find great deals on Arab perfumes and Middle Eastern fabrics. :shopping_bags:
Explore Pasar Pegirian
Don't miss the diverse offerings at Pasar Pegirian, open into the evening. :shopping_cart:
Affordable Stays Nearby
Look for budget-friendly accommodations starting from 80k IDR in the Ampel area. :bed:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the vibrant atmosphere and the wide variety of Middle Eastern goods and street food available in Ampel Arab Quarter. It's a great place for cultural exploration and affordable shopping, though it can get very crowded, especially in the evenings. Some find the food offerings a bit repetitive, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its unique vibe.
"You'll find the variety of arab food, some fresh fruits, songkok, batik, etc. good adventures!!"
Freddy Tanod
"I just stopped by to buy ta'jil for iftar on Ampel Street. It's super crowded when you visit it after Ashar. There are many food stalls you can find, mostly sell mid-eastern snacks in a big big size. I cannot recommend anything since what I tried yesterday tastes so-so. But you're gonna love the vibe tho."
Mochammad Akbar
"Some pictures are taken around Pasar Ampel, some are taken in Pasar Ampel.
Pasar Ampel is open even in the evening.
The most common goods can be found at Pasar Ampel are dates, sejadah, Arab perfumes, kufi, mukena, etc."
Stephanie Zhang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ampel Arab Quarter is located in North Surabaya. You can reach it by various public transport options or ride-sharing services. Many visitors find it convenient to use apps like Gojek or Grab to navigate directly to the Ampel Mosque area. +1
Yes, public transport is available, though specific routes might require local knowledge. Ride-sharing apps are a popular and easy alternative for tourists.
Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. Be prepared for crowded streets, especially in the evenings.
The Ampel Mosque is the central point, and the surrounding market streets like Jl. Nyamplungan and Jl. Ampel Masjid are key areas to explore. +1
Parking can be challenging due to the narrow streets and crowds. It's often easier to park a bit further away and walk or use ride-sharing services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Ampel Arab Quarter itself is free. However, there might be small fees for specific attractions or donations at the mosque.
The market is generally open throughout the day, but it becomes most vibrant and active from the afternoon into the evening, especially after Ashar prayer.
It gets very crowded after Ashar prayer, particularly for iftar. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting earlier in the afternoon.
Entry to the Ampel Mosque is typically free for visitors, though donations are appreciated.
Yes, but expect significantly larger crowds during religious holidays and festivals.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Popular souvenirs include dates, Arab perfumes, Islamic clothing like jubah and kopiah, prayer mats (sejadah), and Middle Eastern fabrics. +1
Numerous stalls sell a wide variety of Arab perfumes. It's worth browsing a few to compare scents and prices.
Yes, you can find competitive prices, especially for Islamic attire and Middle Eastern fabrics. Bargaining is common.
While known for Middle Eastern goods, you can also find some local Indonesian crafts and batik.
Most vendors are reputable, but it's always wise to check for freshness and quality. Look for busy stalls with good turnover.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of Middle Eastern snacks, including large portions of fritters, martabak, and Roti Maryam. Some stalls offer traditional Indonesian fare as well. +1
Roti Maryam and unique snacks like Milor Sreng (Martabak Madura) are highly recommended. +1
Many of the fried snacks and bread-based items are vegetarian-friendly.
Food prices are generally affordable, with many items starting from just a few thousand Rupiah. +1
Yes, the area is a Muslim-centric market, so all food sold is halal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant market scenes, the Ampel Mosque, and the unique architecture. The bustling food stalls and diverse goods offer great photographic opportunities.
Be respectful when photographing people, especially inside religious sites. Always ask for permission if unsure.
The golden hours before sunset and the lively evening atmosphere offer beautiful lighting and vibrant scenes.
Photography inside the mosque may be restricted. It's best to observe local customs and signage.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also excellent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting earlier in the afternoon to avoid the peak evening crowds. While the shopping might be more adult-oriented, the sheer variety of goods and the lively atmosphere can still be engaging for older children. Ensure everyone is dressed modestly to respect local customs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Shopping for souvenirs like perfumes, dates, and clothing can also be done on a budget, especially if you're willing to bargain. For accommodation, look for budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels in the Ampel area, with prices starting from around 80,000 IDR per night.
🕌 Religious & Cultural Explorers
Engage with the local community, observe daily life, and learn about the history of Islamic trade and influence in Surabaya. The markets provide a tangible connection to these traditions, offering authentic goods and flavors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Surabaya's Arab Community
The quarter is not just a place of worship but also a bustling commercial center. Visitors can explore narrow, winding streets filled with shops selling a variety of goods. This vibrant atmosphere makes it a popular destination for both religious tourism and cultural exploration.
Beyond the mosque, the area is renowned for its lively markets, especially Pasar Ampel and Pasar Pegirian. These markets are a sensory delight, offering everything from traditional Middle Eastern foods and spices to Islamic clothing, perfumes, and handicrafts. The energy intensifies in the evenings, transforming the streets into a lively bazaar.
Culinary Adventures in Ampel
Many food stalls set up shop in the afternoon and become particularly active after Ashar prayer, catering to those breaking their fast during Ramadan or simply enjoying the evening ambiance. The prices are generally very affordable, making it a great spot for budget-friendly snacking.
Beyond the well-known snacks, explore the diverse offerings at Pasar Pegirian for more unique finds. While the food might be described as 'monotonous' by some, the experience of trying these distinct flavors in such a culturally rich setting is what makes it special.
Shopping for Authentic Goods
You can also find beautiful prayer mats (sejadah) and a variety of Middle Eastern fabrics. The prices are often competitive, and bargaining is a common practice, so don't hesitate to negotiate for the best deals.
While the focus is on religious and cultural items, you can also discover some local Indonesian crafts and batik, adding to the diverse shopping experience. Remember to dress modestly while shopping, as it's a respectful practice in this area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit