Malang, known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and proximity to Mount Bromo, is a charming city in East Java, Indonesia. Located 85 km (53 miles) south of Surabaya, Malang is accessible by train, bus, private car, or shuttle. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Surabaya to Malang:
- By Train: The fastest and most comfortable option.
- By Bus: The cheapest but slower alternative.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The most flexible and convenient choice.
- By Shuttle (Travel Minivan): The most convenient door-to-door service.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Surabaya to Malang.
Timetable
| Flight East Java - East Java $ 59.18–93.37 4h 59m – 1d 3h 19m | |
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| Bus Surabaya - Malang $ 2.23–7.32 1h 30m – 2h | |
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| Taxi Surabaya - Malang $ 58.20–211.49 1h 30m | |
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By Train: The Fastest and Most Comfortable Option
Taking a train from Surabaya to Malang is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel, with multiple departures throughout the day.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Surabaya Gubeng Station or Surabaya Pasar Turi Station.
- Arrival Station: Malang Kota Baru Station.
- Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on train type.
- Price: 35,000–150,000 IDR (~$2–$10 USD), depending on class.
- Train Types:
- Eksekutif (Executive Class – Fastest and most comfortable).
- Bisnis (Business Class – Standard seating).
- Ekonomi (Economy Class – Budget-friendly).
- Popular Trains:
- Bima (Executive Class, fastest option).
- Mutiara Selatan (Executive and Business Class).
- Jayabaya (Economy Class, budget-friendly).
- Seating Options:
- Executive Class (A/C, reclining seats, spacious).
- Business Class (A/C, standard seating, less legroom).
- Economy Class (A/C, budget seating, more crowded).
- Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~2 hours on Executive Class).
- Comfortable seating with A/C and spacious legroom.
- No traffic delays.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Tickets sell out quickly, especially for Executive Class.
- Economy Class can be crowded.
- Limited luggage space in Economy Class.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, book an Executive Class seat. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Bus: The Cheapest but Slower Alternative
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Surabaya to Malang is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than the train.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Purabaya Bus Terminal (Bungurasih), Surabaya.
- Arrival Point: Arjosari Bus Terminal, Malang.
- Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 20,000–60,000 IDR (~$1.50–$4 USD), depending on bus type.
- Bus Operators:
- Patas (Express Bus with A/C, fewer stops).
- Ekonomi (Cheaper, non-A/C, more stops).
- Departure Frequency: Every 30 minutes from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheapest travel option (~20,000 IDR for Economy Bus).
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Takes longer than trains (~3+ hours).
- Traffic delays are possible, especially during weekends.
- Economy buses can be crowded and less comfortable.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a Patas Express Bus with A/C. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Most Flexible and Convenient Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Surabaya to Malang is the most convenient choice, especially for families and groups.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel or airport in Surabaya.
- Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Malang.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 700,000–1,500,000 IDR (~$45–$100 USD), depending on car type and operator.
- Taxi & Private Car Services:
- Grab (local ride-hailing app).
- Hotel-arranged private drivers.
- Local taxi companies.
- Car Types:
- Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
- SUV or Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).
Pros:
- Fastest travel option (~2 hours via Toll Road).
- Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
- Comfortable for families and groups.
- Flexible travel schedule and scenic stops along the way.
Cons:
- More expensive than trains and buses.
- Traffic delays are possible.
Booking Tip:
For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.
By Shuttle (Travel Minivan): The Most Convenient Door-to-Door Service
For travelers who prefer door-to-door service, taking a shuttle (travel minivan) from Surabaya to Malang is a convenient and affordable option.
Key Details:
- Departure Points: Pickup from your hotel in Surabaya.
- Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Malang.
- Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 100,000–200,000 IDR (~$7–$15 USD).
- Shuttle Operators:
- Citra Trans (Popular with locals).
- Malang Travel (Reliable and convenient).
- Shuttle Type:
- Travel Minivan (A/C, reclining seats, door-to-door service).
- Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
- Comfortable seating with A/C and more legroom.
- Affordable prices for a convenient journey.
Cons:
- Traffic delays are possible.
- Limited luggage space.
