Surabaya has earned a spot among Asia’s top 10 best micro-travel destinations, according to the latest ranking by digital travel platform Agoda. This growing trend of short trips—also known as micro-cations—caters to busy travelers seeking quick, affordable getaways without the need for elaborate planning or hefty budgets.
Agoda’s list, based on booking data from the first five months of 2025, reflects the increasing popularity of micro-travel across Asia. These short getaways—typically lasting a day or just one night—allow travelers to recharge quickly while discovering culture, cuisine, or hidden gems close to home.
“Micro-travel offers flexibility, low stress, and minimal planning.,” said Gede Gunawan, Senior Country Director for Agoda Indonesia, as quoted by Bali Bisnis.
In Asia, the top 10 cities for micro-travel in 2025 include:
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A vibrant mix of urban landmarks like the Petronas Towers, street food markets, and shopping can all be explored within 24 hours.
- Seoul, South Korea – Energetic neighborhoods like Hongdae and Myeongdong offer Korean BBQ, beauty shopping, and late-night karaoke—ideal for a short break.
- Taipei, Taiwan – From Shilin Night Market and Taipei 101 to hot springs, Taipei delivers a complete short-trip experience.
- Manila, Philippines – History meets nightlife in Manila with Intramuros, sunset views at Manila Bay, and lively city vibes.
- Pattaya, Thailand – A quick tropical retreat with beach relaxation, seafood dining, and cabaret shows.
- Jeju, South Korea – A nature lover’s paradise for hiking Hallasan, visiting waterfalls, or enjoying serene beaches.
- Nagoya, Japan – Culture and cuisine converge in Nagoya, home to the iconic Nagoya Castle and the famous miso katsu.
- Kaohsiung, Taiwan – Relaxed coastal charm with visits to Pier-2 Art Center, Cijin Island ferry rides, and bubble tea experiences.
- Penang, Malaysia – A foodie haven with George Town street food, colorful murals, and rich cultural heritage.
- Surabaya, Indonesia – The only Indonesian city on the list, Surabaya offers a blend of history and modernity. Travelers can visit House of Sampoerna, explore shopping centers, or unwind at lively waterfront spots.
The ranking also underscores strong domestic interest in short trips across Indonesia. Agoda’s data shows that Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Tangerang, Semarang, and Medan are the top five Indonesian cities for one-night stays —proving that local micro-travel is just as popular as international escapes.
“With Indonesians increasingly seeking flexible travel experiences that match their lifestyle, we’re proud to help them make the most of every chance to explore—be it through cultural journeys, culinary adventures, or simply a quick break from daily routines,” Gede added.
To support the micro-travel boom, Agoda provides access to over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000+ activities globally. Its mobile app remains a go-to platform for securing the best deals on accommodations and experiences tailored for short stays.
As work-life balance becomes more important, micro-cations are proving to be the smart way to travel—efficient, enjoyable, and easy to plan.
Source: Nusa Bali, Bisnis Bali
Photo Credit: Ferdinand F Eman (pexels.com)
