
Gubeng Old Station
A vital transport hub in Surabaya, blending historic Dutch architecture with modern KAI upgrades for efficient travel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother travel.

Gubeng Old Station
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother travel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital transport hub in Surabaya, blending historic Dutch architecture with modern KAI upgrades for efficient travel.
"Better and better each time we visit here, there are so many improvements by KAI to make this railway station as good as other countries."

🚗 Grab/Gojek Pick-up
Meet drivers outside the station to avoid an extra Rp6,000 parking fee. :car:
📱 KAI App Reliability
Ensure your KAI app is updated; some users experience glitches. :iphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture
Gubeng Old Station
Explore the charming Dutch colonial architecture, a nod to its historical significance.

Modern Station Improvements
Gubeng Station
Witness KAI's efforts in modernizing facilities, offering a comfortable and efficient travel experience.

Viaduct Views
Gubeng Viaduct
Walk along the viaduct for unique perspectives of the station and surrounding areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Gubeng Station
Booking & App Woes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Grab/Gojek Pick-up
Meet drivers outside the station to avoid an extra Rp6,000 parking fee.
:car:📱 KAI App Reliability
Ensure your KAI app is updated; some users experience glitches.
:iphone:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Grab local snacks and food items for gifts at the station's shops.
:gift:🚶♀️ Walking Tours
Consider a 'Mubeng Gubeng' walking tour for historical insights.
:walking:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Grab/Gojek Pick-up
Meet drivers outside the station to avoid an extra Rp6,000 parking fee.
:car:📱 KAI App Reliability
Ensure your KAI app is updated; some users experience glitches.
:iphone:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Grab local snacks and food items for gifts at the station's shops.
:gift:🚶♀️ Walking Tours
Consider a 'Mubeng Gubeng' walking tour for historical insights.
:walking:🏨 Nearby Hotels
Many affordable hotels are just minutes away from Gubeng Station.
:bed:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gubeng Station is praised for its central location, accessibility, and ongoing modernization efforts by KAI, offering improved services and facilities. While generally efficient, some travelers note minor issues like app reliability and the unique track-crossing navigation system.
"Located right in the city center, a great hub for travelers.
Accessibility:
It’s easy to access from anywhere in Surabaya, and there are clearly marked Grab and Gojek pick-up points. Just note: if your driver goes inside the station to pick you up, they'll be charged an extra Rp6,000 for parking, so it’s better to meet outside if you want to avoid the fee.
Facilities:
- There’s plenty of parking space available for private vehicles.
- Inside the station, you’ll find a few souvenir shops, mostly selling food items and local snacks... great for picking up last-minute gifts.
- There are two toilet areas, and from my experience, the indoor restroom was slightly cleaner than the other one.
Overall, a solid and efficient station with all the basics covered. If you’re traveling from or to Surabaya by train, Gubeng Station is a reliable and accessible choice."
Clara Hadiwijoto
"Better and better each time we visit here, there are so many improvements by KAI to make this railway station as good as other countries. Services, public facilities, food and beverage stalls, include the system and all staff that managed it.... it's great 👍 👌"
Dimas Angga Pradiga
"Like most other major city train stations across Java, it looks decidedly modern with decent station facilities. I had no idea one has to enter and get out of a stationary train to walk across from one side of the train station to another side depending on where you need to go from the station. You literally walk over the train tracks to get onto the right platform is how the system works in most parts of SE Asia. If you exit from wrong side of station, it could a long walk or ride for your next destination."
Ami McFaddy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the Suroboyo Bus from Juanda Airport to Gubeng Station for under Rp50,000.
Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Grab or Gojek are readily available.Yes, Gubeng Station is very accessible from anywhere in Surabaya. Clearly marked pick-up points for Grab and Gojek make it convenient.
Depending on your location in Surabaya, walking might be an option. For those staying in hotels very close to the station, it's just a few minutes' walk.
Gubeng Station is a major hub, offering numerous train services across Java. Taxis, ride-sharing apps, and local buses are also easily accessible from the station.
From Gubeng Station, you'll need to arrange onward travel to the nearest train station for Mount Ijen. This typically involves a longer journey by train or bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Train tickets can be purchased through the KAI Access app or at the ticket counters within the station. Be aware of potential app issues.
There are no entrance fees to enter Gubeng Station itself. Fees may apply for parking private vehicles.
While tickets are often available on the day, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular routes or during peak seasons, to secure your seat.
Gubeng Station operates 24/7 to accommodate train schedules. Ticket counters and other facilities will have specific operating hours.
Typically, you will need to show a valid ID when purchasing train tickets, especially for certain classes or promotions. It's always good to have one handy.
🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience
Gubeng Station offers basic facilities including restrooms, souvenir shops selling food and snacks, and ample parking.
Yes, you can find various food and beverage stalls and some restaurants within Gubeng Station, offering local snacks and meals.
Information on public Wi-Fi availability can vary. It's advisable to have your own mobile data or portable Wi-Fi device for reliable internet access.
Absolutely! There are numerous hotels, including budget-friendly options, located very close to Gubeng Station, some just a few minutes away.
The 'Mubeng Gubeng' walking tour is a guided exploration of the Gubeng area, starting from the train station and covering historical sites like the viaduct and old Dutch-style houses.
📸 📸 Photography
The old station building offers a charming backdrop with its Dutch colonial architecture. The viaduct also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Generally, you can take photos inside train carriages, but be respectful of other passengers and avoid obstructing staff. Some luxury compartments might have specific rules.
There are usually no strict restrictions on personal photography for travelers. However, professional or commercial photography might require permits.
Many rail enthusiasts capture trains and station life. The historical architecture also attracts photographers interested in urban exploration and heritage sites.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the station's ambiance and architectural details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For day trips or excursions, research family-friendly attractions in Surabaya that are easily reachable from Gubeng Station. The station's connectivity means you can easily access various parts of the city or even embark on longer journeys across Java.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilizing ride-sharing apps and meeting drivers outside the station can help save on transportation costs. For food, explore the local snacks and affordable eateries within and around the station rather than opting for pricier options.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Numerous budget-friendly hotels and hostels are available nearby, perfect for solo adventurers. While the KAI app is useful, be aware of potential glitches and have a backup plan for ticket purchases.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Gubengs: Old and New
In contrast, the New Gubeng Station represents KAI's commitment to modernization. Travelers often praise the improvements in services, facilities, and overall management, making it comparable to international standards. This dual nature provides a rich experience, allowing visitors to appreciate both the historical roots and the contemporary efficiency of this vital transportation hub.
The station's layout can sometimes be confusing, with the need to walk across train tracks to reach different platforms, a common practice in many Southeast Asian stations. Understanding this system is key to navigating efficiently and reaching your desired destination within the station or your next train.
Getting Around Surabaya: Station to City
When using ride-sharing services to pick up passengers at Gubeng Station, it's advisable to meet your driver outside the main station area. This is to avoid an additional Rp6,000 parking fee that drivers incur if they enter the station premises. This small tip can help save a bit of money on your journey.
Beyond taxis and ride-sharing, Surabaya has a public bus system, and local transportation options can also be explored for shorter distances. The station itself is a hub, so you'll find many transport options readily available upon arrival.
Accommodation Near Gubeng Station
When searching for lodging, look for hotels that specifically mention their proximity to Stasiun Gubeng. This ensures you're within easy reach of train services and other city attractions. Booking through platforms that offer promotions, like those found on TikTok, can sometimes yield better rates.
Staying near the station not only simplifies travel logistics but also places you in a central part of Surabaya, with many dining and shopping options nearby.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit