Pabean Market Surabaya
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Pabean Market Surabaya

4.4
·199 reviews·, Indonesia

Surabaya's oldest market, offering fresh seafood, spices, and wholesale goods at unbeatable prices. A vibrant hub of local life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early Mornings

Freshest goods, best prices

CrowdMedium
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Pabean Market Surabaya

Pabean Market Surabaya

Best Time

Early Mornings

Freshest goods, best prices

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Surabaya's oldest market, offering fresh seafood, spices, and wholesale goods at unbeatable prices. A vibrant hub of local life.

4.4
(199 reviews)

"Pasar Pabean is a great place for affordable, high-quality ingredients, whether you're shopping for personal use or in bulk."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Bag! :shopping_bags:

Help reduce waste and carry your haul easily. Many vendors offer wholesale, so you might buy a lot!

Cash is King :money_with_wings:

While some vendors might accept digital payments, cash is still the preferred method here. Come prepared!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seafood Galore

Seafood Galore

Fish Market Section

A vibrant display of fresh fish, shrimp, squid, and various shellfish. Perfect for culinary adventurers!

Spice Bazaar

Spice Bazaar

Spice Stalls

Aromatic treasures await, from chilies to exotic spices. Bring home the flavors of Indonesia.

Wholesale Goods

Wholesale Goods

Various Stalls

Find great deals on everything from textiles to snacks when buying in bulk. Ideal for savvy shoppers.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Early Bird

For the freshest seafood and best selection, arrive in the morning. This is when vendors are stocking up and prices are often at their most competitive. Be prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Wholesale Wonders & Haggling

Pasar Pabean is known for its wholesale prices, making it ideal for bulk purchases. Don't hesitate to politely haggle, especially when buying larger quantities. It's part of the traditional market experience!

Best Times

When
Early Mornings
Why
Freshest goods, best prices
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Evenings
Why
Quieter, unique night market feel
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Aku sama mama ku kalo pengen seafood belanjanya tuh langsung di pusatnya karna harganya terjangkau & selain itu bisa di tawar juga 😁 #pasar #pasarpabean #pasarpabeansurabaya #pasarikan #pasarmurah #pabeansurabaya #fyp
@febrirenaldi_
13.8K likes • 311.7K views

Bring Your Own Bag! :shopping_bags:

Help reduce waste and carry your haul easily. Many vendors offer wholesale, so you might buy a lot!

Cash is King :money_with_wings:

While some vendors might accept digital payments, cash is still the preferred method here. Come prepared!

#pabeansurabaya #manukansurabayabarat #manukan #kulinermanukansurabaya
@maeylani_erlan_kuliner
8.5K likes • 265.9K views
Legendary traditional market in Surabaya. Pabean market is never sleep . . #explore #tour #city #market #excursión
mijelajah
0 likes • 3.7K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on potentially wet and uneven surfaces. Comfort is key!

Embrace the Chaos :sparkles:

It's a bustling traditional market! Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and friendly vendors.

Pabean Market, Surabaya, Java, Indonesia. Retrato #PasarPabean #Java #Jawa #Indonesia #Surabaya #SurabayaNightMarket #PasarTradisional #SurabayaHeritage #ExploreSurabaya #VisitEastJava #PasarMalam #StreetPhotographyIndonesia #NightMarketVibes #StreetPhotography #Chilli 🌶️ #HotAndSpicy #Portrait #Retrato #NoMusicneded
mondo_jonan
29 likes • 565 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Bag! :shopping_bags:

Help reduce waste and carry your haul easily. Many vendors offer wholesale, so you might buy a lot!

Cash is King :money_with_wings:

While some vendors might accept digital payments, cash is still the preferred method here. Come prepared!

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on potentially wet and uneven surfaces. Comfort is key!

Embrace the Chaos :sparkles:

It's a bustling traditional market! Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and friendly vendors.

Taste the Street Food :street_food:

Don't miss out on authentic local snacks and dishes available from various food stalls.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(199 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pasar Pabean is a highly-rated traditional market in Surabaya, celebrated for its incredibly affordable wholesale prices and vast selection of fresh goods, especially seafood and spices. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to buy in bulk, though some note the market can be crowded and wet, particularly in certain sections.

"Pasar Pabean Surabaya: A Traditional Market with Affordable Wholesale Prices.

I visited Pasar Pabean with my mom to buy cashew nuts, emping blinjo, salted fish, and shallots, and I was impressed by the variety and affordability! This market is one of the oldest in Surabaya, known for its fresh seafood, spices, and traditional ingredients.

The atmosphere is lively, with vendors offering everything from fresh fish and dried seafood to aromatic spices and snacks. Since it's located between Kampung Arab and Kya-Kya Chinatown, it has a unique cultural mix, making shopping here even more interesting.

One of the best things about this market is that you can buy in bulk/wholesale (grosir) for even better prices! Whether you need a small amount or a large quantity, the vendors are flexible and offer great deals.

The prices are really cheap, and the selection is excellent. However, since it’s a traditional market, expect a bit of crowd and some wet areas, especially in the seafood section. It’s best to come in the morning for the freshest selection.

Overall, Pasar Pabean is a great place for affordable, high-quality ingredients, whether you're shopping for personal use or in bulk. If you love cooking or looking for local specialties, this market is definitely worth a visit!"

Dina

"Looking for the fresh fish or Vegetables. You just in the right place. There also has chicken and other needs for cook."

ヴァムレオ

"Good place to get seasonings in bulk. Also famous for the fish market. Really cheap and we can find all kind of fish here"

yohanes bimo antoro

What People Like

Affordable wholesale prices
Fresh seafood selection
Vibrant market atmosphere

What People Dislike

Crowded conditions
Wet areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pasar Pabean is accessible by various modes of transport in Surabaya. You can take a local bus, taxi, or ride-sharing service. It's located centrally, making it relatively easy to find. Many visitors mention the area can get jammed, so factor that into your travel time.TikTok

Parking can be challenging due to the market's busy nature and central location. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport if possible, or be prepared to find parking a short walk away.

The market is situated between the Arab quarter and Chinatown, offering a multicultural experience.Instagram Walking is the best way to explore its various sections, from seafood to spices.

Like any busy market, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. The general consensus is that it's a safe place to visit, with friendly vendors.Instagram

Yes, Google Maps is a reliable tool for navigating to Pasar Pabean. Search for 'Pasar Pabean Surabaya' and follow the directions provided. It's a well-known landmark.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Pasar Pabean is a public traditional market, and there is no admission fee to enter. You can freely wander through its bustling aisles.

Pasar Pabean is known for being a market that 'never sleeps',Instagram operating almost 24/7. However, the peak hours for fresh produce and seafood are typically in the early morning.

For the freshest seafood and produce, aim to visit in the early morning, shortly after dawn. This is when vendors are actively restocking their stalls.Reddit

While the market is always active, weekends and peak shopping hours can be more crowded. If you prefer a less intense experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning.

Pasar Pabean is a traditional market, and there's no system for pre-booking. You purchase items directly from vendors upon arrival.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods

You can find an incredible variety of goods, including fresh seafood,TikTok meats, vegetables, fruits, spices, dried goods, snacks, and even wholesale textiles like hijabs.Instagram It's a one-stop shop for many household needs.

Yes, haggling is common and expected, especially when buying in bulk or wholesale quantities.TikTok Be polite and respectful when negotiating prices.

Absolutely! Pasar Pabean is renowned for its wholesale prices, making it very economical to buy in bulk for ingredients like spices, shallots, or dried goods.Reddit

The spice stalls are a treasure trove. You'll find a wide array of aromatic spices, and buying in larger quantities often yields better prices.

While primarily a food and goods market, you might find unique local snacks, traditional spices, or textiles that make for interesting souvenirs.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You can find authentic Chinese food,Instagram local snacks, and fresh ingredients to cook with. Many vendors offer ready-to-eat dishes and street food.

While there aren't formal restaurants, numerous food stalls offer delicious meals and snacks. It's a fantastic place to experience authentic street food.

Look for fresh seafood preparations, local snacks, and dishes influenced by the market's multicultural heritage, such as Chinese-style foods.Instagram

As with any street food, use your judgment. Many vendors maintain good hygiene, and the popularity of stalls often indicates quality and freshness.

Definitely! Pasar Pabean is the perfect place to buy fresh fish, meat, vegetables, and spices to prepare your own Indonesian dishes.

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The market offers a vibrant tapestry of daily life, colorful produce, and interesting characters, making it a photographer's paradise.Instagram+3

Focus on the bustling activity, the fresh produce displays, the vendors' expressions, and the unique cultural blend of the market.Instagram+1

Early morning offers great light and activity. Evenings can provide a different, perhaps more atmospheric, mood.Instagram

Generally, photography is welcomed, but it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up portraits of individuals.Instagram

A versatile lens like a 35mm or 50mm is great for capturing the scene. Some photographers enjoy the challenge of prime lenses for street photography.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pasar Pabean can be an exciting, albeit busy, outing for families. The sheer variety of sights and sounds can be captivating for children. Focus on the colorful produce sections and perhaps the lively fish market (from a safe distance!).

Tips for Families: Bring a stroller or carrier for younger children, as navigating crowds can be tricky. Keep a close eye on little ones, and consider visiting during less crowded times if possible. The street food stalls offer a chance for kids to try new flavors, but always opt for freshly prepared items.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Pasar Pabean is a goldmine. The wholesale prices mean you can get more for your money, whether you're buying snacks, spices, or ingredients for a meal.TikTokReddit It's an excellent place to experience local life without breaking the bank.

Savvy Shopping: Don't be afraid to haggle politely for the best prices. Bring your own reusable bags to save on packaging and make carrying your purchases easier. You can also find affordable local eateries around the market.

🍳 Culinary Enthusiasts

If you love to cook or explore new flavors, Pasar Pabean is your paradise. The market boasts an incredible array of fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and local ingredients that are hard to find elsewhere.TikTokReddit It's the perfect place to source authentic Indonesian flavors.

Ingredient Hunt: Explore the spice stalls for unique blends, find the freshest catch of the day, and discover local produce. Many visitors rave about the quality and affordability of the ingredients available, making it ideal for creating delicious meals.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heartbeat of Surabaya: A Living Heritage

Pasar Pabean is more than just a market; it's a living heritage site and one of Surabaya's oldest traditional markets.Instagram+1 Its enduring presence speaks volumes about the city's history and its multicultural roots.Instagram The market thrives on a rhythm of constant activity, a testament to the dedication of its vendors and the needs of the community.

The atmosphere is a sensory explosion: the calls of vendors, the aroma of spices, the vibrant colors of fresh produce, and the sheer energy of people going about their daily lives. It's a place where time seems to slow down, yet life never ceases to move.Instagram This unique blend of tradition and dynamism is what draws both locals and curious travelers alike.

Cultural Crossroads: Situated between the historic Arab quarter and Chinatown,Instagram Pasar Pabean reflects Surabaya's rich multicultural tapestry. This historical context adds another layer of fascination to the market experience, offering a glimpse into the city's past as a vital trading hub.

Navigating the Bustling Aisles: Tips for Shoppers

Visiting Pasar Pabean is an immersive experience, and a little preparation goes a long way. The market is known for its wholesale prices, making it an excellent destination for stocking up on groceries, spices, and other goods.TikTokReddit Remember that haggling is part of the culture here, so don't be afraid to negotiate politely, especially when purchasing in larger quantities.

Freshness is Key: For the best selection of seafood and produce, aim for an early morning visit. This is when the market is most vibrant, with vendors bringing in their freshest catches and harvests.Reddit Be prepared for a lively and sometimes wet environment, particularly in the seafood section. Wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes is highly recommended.

Embrace the Experience: Beyond shopping, Pasar Pabean offers a fantastic opportunity to witness authentic daily life in Surabaya.Instagram Engage with the friendly vendors, soak in the sights and sounds, and perhaps even sample some of the delicious street food available. It's a place that truly engages all your senses.

A Photographer's Dream: Capturing the Essence

Pasar Pabean is a visual feast, offering endless opportunities for compelling photography. The market's vibrant atmosphere, colorful displays of produce, and the genuine human interactions provide rich subject matter.Instagram+3 From the glistening scales of fresh fish to the intricate patterns of spices, every corner holds a potential masterpiece.

Storytelling Through the Lens: Photographers can capture the 'sweat, strength, and humanity' of the workers who are the backbone of the market.Instagram The candid moments of daily life, the expressions of vendors, and the sheer energy of the place tell powerful stories. Whether you're using a wide-angle lens to capture the bustling scene or a prime lens for intimate portraits, the market offers diverse photographic possibilities.Instagram

Best Light and Moments: Early mornings often provide the best natural light for photography, illuminating the fresh goods and the activity. However, the market's unique character can also be captured during other times, offering different moods and perspectives. Always remember to be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.

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