25.09.2025

Surabaya to Bandung by Car - What You NEED to Know for a Smooth Drive

Driving from Surabaya to Bandung is a classic Java road trip. But before you go, you need a solid plan. The big question is: how long does it really take to go Surabaya to Bandung by car?

The direct answer is about 9 to 11 hours to cover the approximately 706-kilometer distance. However, your actual time can vary based on traffic, your chosen route, and rest stops.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We'll give you the exact routes from your source, a realistic timeline, and pro tips to make your journey smooth and efficient. Let's map out your trip.

Surabaya to Bandung by Car: How Many Hours?

Let's get straight to the point. When planning your drive Surabaya to Bandung by car, you should block out a full day.

Distance: ~706 km
Average Driving Time: 9 to 11 hours

Why the time range? Several factors affect your total travel time:

Traffic: Leaving during peak hours in Surabaya or hitting congestion near Bandung can add significant delays.
Your Route: The full toll road is the fastest. Alternative routes are slower.
Rest Stops: Factor in time for meals, coffee, and breaks. A quick stop can easily take 30 minutes.
Weather: Heavy rain can slow down traffic and requires more cautious driving.

Pro Tip: For the fastest trip, leave Surabaya very early in the morning (around 4-5 AM) to avoid the city's morning rush hour.

Best Route Options: Surabaya Bandung Tol & Alternatives

Here are the accurate route options based on the information you shared.

1. The Fastest Route: Via the Cipali Toll Road (Tol Cipali)

This is the most efficient way to drive Surabaya to Bandung by car. The Surabaya Bandung tol route via Cipali is well-maintained and designed for speed.

Here is the correct, step-by-step guide:

Start on the Surabaya-Gempol Toll Road.
Continue to the Gempol-Pandaan Toll Road.
Take the Pandaan-Malang Toll Road.
Continue onto the Malang-Kertosono Toll Road.
After the Kertosono area, you will reach the North Kertosono Toll Gate.
From there, continue your journey to the West Kertosono toll gate.
Get on the long stretch of the Kertosono-Bawen Toll Road.
Connect to the Bawen-Plumbon Toll Road.
Finally, take the Plumbon-Bandung Toll Road to your destination.

Why choose this route? It is the most direct and predictable, minimizing time spent on local roads.

2. An Alternative Toll Route

This is a slight variation that can be useful depending on your starting point in Surabaya.

Begin on the Surabaya-Mojokerto Toll Road.
Then, take the Mojokerto-Surabaya Toll Road.
From there, merge onto the Surabaya-Gempol Toll Road and follow the rest of the route as described above (from step 2 onwards).

3. The Coastal Scenic Route: Via Pantura

This route uses a mix of toll roads and national roads along the north coast. It's more scenic but generally slower due to local traffic.

Start on the Surabaya-Porong Toll Road.
Exit the toll and continue on the national road (jalan raya) through Porong, Sidoarjo, Warugunung, Gempol, and Pandaan.
Once in Pandaan, you can enter the Pandaan-Malang Toll Road to rejoin the main toll network and continue to Bandung as per the first route.

Why choose this route? It's cheaper (less toll fees) and offers a glimpse of local life. Only recommended if you have extra time and patience.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey

A successful trip Surabaya to Bandung by car requires more than just a good route.

Vehicle Check: Before you go, check your tire pressure, brakes, engine oil, and coolant.
Supplies: Pack water, snacks, and create a good music or podcast playlist.
Use Navigation Apps: Waze or Google Maps are essential for real-time traffic updates and rerouting.
Plan Rest Stops: The Surabaya Bandung tol route has excellent rest areas. Plan to stop every 2-3 hours to stay alert.
Cash & E-Toll Card: Ensure your e-toll card is topped up and carry cash for small purchases.

Your Trip, Your Rules: Why Renting a Car is the Best Choice

Driving your own car is great, but renting offers freedom and reliability, especially for such a long trip.

Make your Surabaya to Bandung by car trip effortless by renting with WAHDAH!

Here’s why WAHDAH is the perfect partner for your journey:

UNLIMITED MILEAGE: Drive the full 706 km (and more!) without worrying about extra charges. Perfect for exploring.
CROSS ISLAND: Our cars are perfectly maintained for long journeys across Java.
BEST PRICE: Get a great, transparent rate with no hidden fees.
FLEXIBLE PICK-UP & DROP-OFF: We deliver the car to you at the airport, your hotel, or any location in Surabaya.

Ready for a stress-free road trip? Click here to rent your car from WAHDAH today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the absolute fastest route from Surabaya to Bandung?
A1: The fastest route is the full Surabaya Bandung tol route via the Cipali (Cikampek-Palimanan) toll road, as described in the "Fastest Route" section above.

Q2: Are the roads good for the entire journey?
A2: Yes, if you take the toll route. The Surabaya Bandung tol roads are modern and well-paved. The Pantura alternative will have a mix of road conditions and more traffic.

Q3: Is it safe to drive from Surabaya to Bandung in one day?
A3: Yes, it is safe if you are well-rested. Share the driving if possible, and take regular breaks every 2-3 hours to avoid fatigue. Never drive when tired.

Q4: I'm not from Indonesia. Can I drive this route?
A4: Foreign visitors can drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, the traffic can be intense. For a stress-free experience, many prefer to rent a car with a local driver or use a reliable service like WAHDAH.

Hit the Road!

You now have an accurate and reliable guide for your trip Surabaya to Bandung by car. You know the routes, the timing, and the tips for a successful journey.

Book your perfect road trip car with WAHDAH for unlimited miles and total flexibility. Your adventure awaits!

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