Surabaya’s main sightseeing attractions relate to the entire archipelago’s unique history. The Grahadi Building, now used as the governor's secondary residence, is central to the city's layout, though there are numerous other Dutch Colonial houses in or near the city centre. Meanwhile, many of the local monuments (such as Heroes Monument) pay tribute to the military feats accomplished in the 1940s at the dawn of Indonesian independence.

Grahadi Building
This building was built in 1795 by Dutchman Dirk Van Hogendorp. Originally constructed as a mansion house for Van Hogendorp, the building now serves the current governor as a convention hall and a secondary residence to receive guests. The structure itself is very sturdy, indicative of the Dutch Tropical architectural style that was prevalent during the colonial period.

Heroes Monument
Locally known as Tugu Pahlawan, this imposing monolith stands over the Governor's office in Taman Kebunrojo. This streamlined tribute to Indonesia’s soldiers who have risked their lives in combat stands at a height of 44 metres. The Heroes Monument takes centre stage on 10 November when the city recognises those soldiers who gave their lives during Indonesia’s war for independence.

House of Sampoerna
Found in the city’s historic quarter, the House of Sampoerna is a stoic and well-preserved historic site. The Dutch colonial structure was built in 1858 and was originally used by the colonisers as an orphanage. The facility now serves several purposes, with a significant portion set aside as a cigarette production plant. Other portions have been restored and are open to the public, featuring amenities such as a café, museum of the building’s history and an art gallery. Phone: +62 31 353 9000; www.houseofsampoerna.com

Jalesveva Jayamahe Monument
This monument situated on the western perimeter of Port Madura features a uniformed naval officer gazing out to sea. Built during the 1990s, this monument stands 31 metres tall and doubles as a lighthouse. The memorial was commissioned in honour of Indonesia's 45th year of independence, paying special tribute to the naval officers protecting the collection of islands in this nation.

Kapal Selam Monument
This full-scale submarine monument was built in 1995 as a tribute to the nation’s maritime legacy. Known locally as Moumen Kapal Selam, this tourist attraction is often abbreviated as MonKaSel. The submarine has seven chambers, including two torpedo bays (bow and stern); two engine rooms (one diesel, the other electric); two lounges (one for officers, the other for ship's crew); and the command centre. The submarine is open for tours throughout the week. www.monkasel.com

Red Bridge
Situated near the entrance to Surabaya’s Chinatown, this bridge is memorialised as the site where British Brigadier General Mallaby was killed during World War II. This was in the course of an important battle in which the Indonesians came forward to test the mettle of their newly declared independence. Today, the bridge stands as an icon of early independence.