Taking the bus from Jakarta to Surabaya provides a long but memorable journey throughout Java, allowing passengers to explore the island's different landscapes and urban districts. Both locals and tourists extensively use the route that connects two of Indonesia's main cities. The following is a detailed look at the experience of taking a bus from Jakarta to Surabaya, covering significant parts of the journey and ideas for making it more comfortable. These days, you can easily order tickets online through sites like Easybook. These platforms enable you to select your favourite bus operator, class, and departure time. You can also purchase tickets directly at the bus terminal, but we recommend booking in advance, particularly during peak travel periods like weekends or public holidays.

The primary terminals for buses departing from Jakarta are:

• Pulo Gebang Bus Terminal, located in East Jakarta, is the city's largest and most modern bus terminal. It is well organized, with clean facilities, waiting areas, restrooms, and food stands.
• Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal: Another key terminal in East Jakarta that provides long-distance service, especially to Surabaya.
• Kalideres Bus Terminal: Located in West Jakarta, this terminal is less congested than Pulo Gebang but still services multiple buses bound for Surabaya.

Arrival Terminal in Surabaya:

• Purabaya (Bungurasih) Bus Terminal: This station is one of the largest in East Java, and it is easily accessible from central Surabaya via angkot (minibuses), taxis, or ride-hailing services such as Grab. Depending on your vacation intentions, you can easily grab a taxi to your Surabaya hotel or connect to other surrounding cities, such as Malang or Probolinggo, from Purabaya Terminal.

Buses continuously arrive and depart for various parts of Java at the crowded bus terminals, providing an excellent opportunity to purchase snacks or drinks from the vendors. We strongly advise you to reach the terminal 30 to 45 minutes prior to departure so you can effortlessly check in and locate your bus. There are multiple bus operators running the service on this route, including 3M Transport, Sari Indah, Angkasa Trans, Jaya Pahala Kencana, PO Harapan Jaya, PO Mawar, PO Tiara Mas, Kym, and Trans Bass Trans Travel.

Taking a bus from Jakarta to Surabaya is a cost-effective and convenient choice for those who don't mind the long ride. Passengers can choose the option that best fits their budget and interests, as different bus companies offer varying levels of comfort. While the journey might be long, the stunning sights, frequent rest stations, and flexible departure times make it an appealing option for anyone seeking to experience overland travel in Java.