Categories: Lifestyle

Things To Do In JB For Your Next Getaway: 21 Places To Visit

Looking forward to the next long weekend, or in desperate need of a getaway from the stressful work week? Well, you’re not alone! Like any other Singaporean, I love visiting JB for some great food and affordable shopping. Yet, I often struggle to find new things to do in JB to accommodate the needs of my family or friends. If you’re facing similar challenges, read on to explore more ideas for your next day trip to Johor Bahru, be it a restful spa day or a thrilling theme park adventure

Overview of things to do in JB

Category Activity Address Opening Hours Price
Food & drinks Romanticise your day at Rowan & Parsley Food Atelier No. 17, Jalan Cenderai 20, Kawasan Perindustrial Kota Putri, 81750 Johor Bahru Daily, 11am – 10pm Drinks from RM8

Food from RM21

Enjoy some sweet treats at Fufu Cafe & Dessert Bar 226, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, Wadi Hana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Mon – Fri: 1.11pm – 5.30pm,

7.30pm – 11.11pm

Sat – Sun: 1.11pm – 11.11pm

Desserts from RM17

Drinks from RM14

Socialise at Cabinet 8 by JWC 102, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor Bahru Fri – Sat: 7pm – 1am

Sun – Thur:7pm – 12am

Drinks from RM45
Grab a bagel at The FOUNDERS Cafe Tiong Nam Tebrau, 45, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily, 9am – 10pm Drinks from RM10

Food from RM12

Taste legendary banana cakes at Hiap Joo Bakery 13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Mon: 6.30am – 5pm

Tue – Sat: 7.30am – 4.30pm

Sun: 7.30am – 12pm

Bakes from RM5
Tuck in to late night supper at XiaoLaoBan Lok Lok Jln Sri Pelangi 4, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily, 6pm – 4.30am Each stick is priced at RM1
Theme and recreational parks Explore mini-cities and landmarks at Legoland 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily: 10am – 6pm, last entry at 5pm (check for scheduled ride closures) From RM199
Escape at LOST IN JB #01-33, Blok A Pusat Perdagangan Ekolora, Jalan Ekoflora 7/2, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru Mon – Thur: 12am – 10pm

Fri – Sun:

12am – 12am

Student price from RM128

Adult price from RM138

Entertain the kids at Fanpekka Persiaran Desa Tebrau, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Mon – Thur, Sun: 10am – 10pm

Fri & Sat:

10am – 10.30pm

Children prices from RM72

Adult prices from RM12

Win at Laser Battle Ibrahim international Business District, Johor Bahru City Square, Lot MS-11, Innercity Level 4, 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80888 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily, 10am – 10pm From RM35
Go kart racing at RUD Mendini PTD 200284, Persiaran Medini Sentral 6, Bandar Medini Iskandar, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily, 11am – 2am From RM75
Nature and Sightseeing Attractions Go hiking at Gunung Pulai Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru Tue – Sun: 8am – 6pm Free
Picnic at Taman Merdeka Jalan Datin Halimah, 80200 Johor Bahru Daily, 7am – 7pm Free
Take a romantic firefly cruise at Kota Tinggi Firefly Park Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily, 1pm – 11pm Tickets from RM15
Enjoy the bamboo groves at Putuo Village 1488, Jalan Kampung, Off, Jalan Kota Tinggi – Kluang, Felda Taib Andak, 81000 Kulai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily, 9am – 6pm Tickets from RM10
Shopping & Entertainment Find gems at JB Premium Outlets Jalan Premium Outlets Indahpura, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru Daily, 10am – 10pm
Ice skate at Paradigm Mall Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru, 3F-30, Jalan Bertingkat Skudai, 81200, Johor Bahru Tue:10am – 10pm

Wed – Sun: 2.30pm – 10pm

From RM40
Play with puppies at HOME by Tales of Paws 121, Jalan Serampang, Taman Sri Tebrau, Johor Bahru 80400 Daily, 10am – 6.15pm

Closed on Wed

Last entry at 5pm

From RM88
Snap some photos at Kacha Kacha Studio Block A #02, 08, Jln Ekoflora 7/2, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Sun -Thur: 1pm – 9pm

Fri – Sat: 1pm – 10pm

From RM20
Customise your perfume at Sacree Scent Artisan Paradigm Mall JB (4F-13, Lbh Skudai, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia Daily, 10am – 10pm From RM120
Melt the tension away at Walea Spa & Retreat 6, Jalan Balau, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru Daily, 11am – 7pm From RM48

Things to do in JB – Food & drinks

1. Rowan & Parsley Food Atelier

(Credit: Rowan & Parsley Food Atelier / Instagram)

When travelling to JB, I look forward to indulging in scrumptious meals without burning a huge hole in my wallet. For couples seeking a romantic date, saunter down to Rowan & Parsley Food Atelier, a rustic glasshouse-esque dining atelier and smokehouse just a quick drive from the causeway. Multiple phototaking spots make for the perfect location for an #OOTD picture, such as the establishment’s lush exterior. Did you know that Rowan & Parsley is JB’s first Texas Barbeque steakhouse restaurant? For the best dining experience, I’d hence highly recommend trying the pork belly and the creamy tomato prawn linguine

Address: 17, Jalan Cenderai 20, Taman Perindustrian Kota Puteri, 81750 Masai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 10pm
Price: Drinks from RM8, Food from RM21

2. Fufu Cafe & Dessert Bar

(Credit: Fufu Cafe & Dessert Bar / Facebook)

Cafe-hopping has become one of the most popular things to do in JB, and I am also guilty of looking for delicious spots that keep me returning over and over again. So, travellers with a sweet tooth, look no further! Upon stepping into the cafe, expect to be greeted by Fufu Cafe & Dessert Bar’s sumptuous desserts. Inspired by different countries, this cafe specialises in waffles and various intriguing ice cream combinations. Their Pandan waffle with Kaya Orange Gelato, shredded palm sugar coconut, and Pandan Jelly made freshly in-house really caught my eye! At just 5 minutes away from the checkpoint, this place makes for a quick dessert pitstop before heading back to Singapore.

Address: 226, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, Wadi Hana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours:
Mon – Fri: 1.11am – 5.30pm, 7.30pm -11.11pm
Sat – Sun: 1.11pm – 11.11pm
Price: Desserts from RM17, Drinks from RM19

3. Cabinet 8 by JWC

(Credit: Cabinet 8 by JWC / Facebook)

Cabinet 8 by JWC is one of the highest-rated speakeasy bars in JB, best known for its vintage decor. The bar also boasts a concealed entrance that creates a unique visiting experience by elevating its mysterious ambience (I shan’t spoil the surprise!). Adventurous folks may enjoy Miss Mary, a twist on the conventional Bloody Mary with the inclusion of tomato juice, Sichuan pepper, and celery Vodka that packs a punch. Margarita lovers may also enjoy the Guavarita, which includes Guava distilled Tequila and a ring of sour plum powder. The bar also regularly brings in guest bartenders, so do keep a lookout for these announcements if you’re a fan! 

Address: 102, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama 81300 Skudai, Johor Bahru
Opening hours:
Fri – Sat: 7pm-1am
Sun – Thur: 7pm – 12am
Price: Drinks from RM45

4. The FOUNDERS Cafe

(Credit: The FOUNDERS Cafe / Instagram)

Planning to head into JB nice and early to beat the crowd? Don’t be fooled by this cafe’s industrial interior and reward yourself with a hearty breakfast at The FOUNDERS Cafe! Have a go at their specialty – hand-rolled bagels, or other highly-recommended dishes such as the quesadilla, which features fluffy tom-yum scrambled eggs. To complete your meal, save some stomach space for decadent desserts like their Tiramisu Cake or classic Burnt Cheesecake with Oat Crumble. 

Address: Tiong Nam Tebrau, 45, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 10pm
Price: Drinks from RM10, Food from RM12

5. Hiap Joo Bakery

(Credit: Hiap Joo Bakery / Facebook)

What’s a trip to JB without queuing at Hiap Joo Bakery for some freshly baked banana cake? I’ve heard that some people dedicate an entire day just to get their hands on their bakes – that’s how addictive they are! With a whopping 104 years of experience, Hiap Joo Bakery is one of Johor’s oldest bakeries. Other than banana cake, the established bakery also sells other popular bakes such as coconut bread, all baked in their traditional wood-fired oven. Do visit early as their bakes are always snapped up quickly, and remember to visit a money changer beforehand as the bakery only accepts cash!

Address: 13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours:
Mon: 6.30am – 5pm
Tue – Sat: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Price: Bakes from RM5

6. XiaoLaoBan Lok Lok

(Credit: Xiao.laoban / Instagram)

The supper scene in JB is rather happening even late into the night! For those who wish to soak up the night atmosphere, XiaoLaoBan Lok Lok is truly a hidden gem supper spot. This place has a huge variety of options and a wide range of accompanying sauces to truly satisfy your late-night cravings. Upon picking your items, the staff grill them to perfection and drench them in the savoury sauce. The shop also has a wanton noodle store if you’re still feeling a little peckish after the lok lok. With each stick priced less than S$1, this affordable spot is great for a casual supper with friends or family. Score!

Address: Jln Sri Pelangi 4, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily, 6pm – 4.30am
Price: From RM1 per stick

Things to do in JB – Theme parks and recreational parks

7.  Legoland

(Credit: LEGOLAND Malaysia / Facebook)

Theme parks have become popular activity options in JB, especially for families or couples looking to let loose and have some fun! Create new memories with your loved ones by snapping some pictures at Legoland with Lego recreations of Asian monuments in eight themed areas around the park. Alternatively, enjoy an invigorating birds-eye view of the park at the Observation Tower. Thrill-seekers can also embark on exhilarating adventures upon the iconic Dragon roller coaster or The Great LEGO Race, Legoland’s only VR-enhanced roller coaster ride!

With an adjacent water park and an aquarium for you to explore, there are tons of things to do in one of JB’s largest theme parks. Legoland is an attraction that’s not to be missed, and a day trip is certainly not enough to experience all the fun! To beat the queue, get your Legoland E-ticket online in advance. 

Address: 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 6pm, last entry at 5pm
Price: From RM199

*Do take note of scheduled ride closures here before visiting!

8. LOST IN JB

(Credit: LOST IN JB Escape Rooms / Facebook)

Looking for things to do in JB with your friends other than cafe-hopping? Put your problem-solving skills to the test with LOST IN JB’s immersive escape rooms! Adopt personas such as detectives or doctors as your group solves quests and unravels mysteries amidst realistic surroundings, ultra-realistic horror props, and live actors! LOST IN JB also offers rooms of varying difficulty levels so everyone can have fun, regardless of whether you’re new to escape rooms! 

If you’re less inclined towards horror like me, don’t fret, as three non-horror themed rooms have recently been launched, so you can still enjoy the thrill of puzzle solving with friends or family as the clock ticks down! Don’t forget to bring a water bottle to replenish your energy after, and remember to book your session in advance. 

Address: #01-33, Blok A Pusat Perdagangan Ekolora, Jalan Ekoflora 7/2, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thur: 12pm – 10pm
Fri – Sun: 12pm – 12am
Price: Student prices from RM128, Adult prices from RM138

9. Fanpekka

(Credit: FANPEKKA / Facebook)

Reminiscent of Singapore’s Kidzania, Fanpekka is a Finnish conceptual theme park that introduces an educational twist to traditional theme parks. Designed based on the Finnish concept of ‘learning by playing’, the activities within Fanpekka’s six park zones foster life skills such as problem-solving and innovation.

Kids can look forward to building a house from building blocks, creating handicrafts with art supplies, or participating in role-playing and dress-up activities. Looking for a fun way to engage your child’s creativity? Mark this as one of the must-visit places for your next JB visit! Fanpekka is conveniently located within AEON Mall, making it perfect for parents who are looking for a way to entertain their children as they do their shopping. 

Address: Persiaran Desa Tebrau, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thur, Sun: 10am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 10am – 10.30pm
Price: Children prices from RM72, Adult prices from RM12

10. Laser Battle

(Credit: Laserblast Laser Tag Equipment / Pexels)

Planning a day trip to JB with your squad this June holidays? Spend your afternoon at Laser Battle Johor – the largest laser tag centre in Asia that spans 5000 square feet. Here, you can enjoy more than 55 modes of laser tag, including tactical and interactive options. Not to mention, there’s also a host of arenas to explore, such as Egyptian-themed and science lab-themed options. 

We all know how annoying laggy tagging systems are, especially during an intense game. That’s why I was glad that there was none of that at Laser Battle Johor, where their tagging technology was really accurate! The game experience was truly enjoyable with the quality equipment, and I enjoyed navigating my way around the arena with the amazing lighting and sound effects. Do visit if you’re up for a challenge! 

Address: Ibrahim international Business District, Johor Bahru City Square, Lot MS-11, Innercity Level 4, 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80888 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Price: From RM35

11. RUD Karting Medini

(Credit: RUD Karting Medini / Facebook[cropped])
Ever wondered what driving an F1 car feels like? Enjoy a thrilling GoKarting experience at RUD Karting Medini’s wide racetracks that span an astonishing 774 meters, a sight we aren’t able to experience in Singapore. With karts that go up to 70 km/h, expect to drift around racetracks as a competitive solo driver or a duo during these exhilarating sessions, even for those without driving licenses!

Do note that the wait may get long due to RUD’s growing popularity. While waiting for your turn to drive, consider visiting the RUD Cafe & Bistro located right next door to fuel up or to take some pictures of the cafe’s interior. For adrenaline junkies interested in visiting, make sure to come dressed in comfortable clothing and covered shoes

Address: PTD 200284, Persiaran Medini Sentral 6, Bandar Medini Iskandar, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily, 11am – 2am
Price: From RM75 

Things to do in JB- Nature and Sightseeing Attractions

12. Gunung Pulai

(Credit: Kai-Chieh Chan / Pexels)

As someone who has tried hiking in Singapore, I find myself craving more hiking terrain. With its rolling hills and higher peaks, JB offers rugged trails you simply can’t find back home, coupled with rewarding scenic landmarks at the end of your hike. Looking to push yourself beyond Singapore’s relatively easy hikes? Embark on a hiking trip to Gunung Pulai, a recreational forest with a 654m high peak that’s well away from the hustle and bustle of the JB city centre. 

A round trip along this hike is approximately 10km, but don’t be daunted by the distance! The route is paved and there are rest stops along the way, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hikers. Adventurous hikers can also opt to trek to the hidden waterfall located at the summit and enjoy a cool dip before heading back down. After sweating it out, stop by the Rainforest Tree House at the entrance to refuel with some dessert while admiring the treehouse architecture. For a safe and comfortable hike, be sure to prepare yourself with hiking essentials, and apply for a hiking permit online at least three days in advance. 

Address: Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru
Opening Hours:
Tue – Sun: 8am – 6pm
Price: Free

13. Taman Merdeka

(Credit: Luis Ruiz / Facebook)

Contrary to popular belief, there are many nature-related things to do in JB for couples and families in 2025! For instance, the Taman Merdeka Community Recreational Park is my designated place to visit in JB on a day out with my loved ones to enjoy some fresh air. Spanning a vast 31 acres, its various open spaces provide picturesque settings for a cosy family picnic and photo-taking session. As the sun sets, the lake lights up with a musical light show and dancing fountains – a nice spectacle to conclude a restful day at the park. As the park was established to commemorate Malaysia’s struggle for independence, there are also insightful plaques within the nine lawns for visitors to read more about the country’s history.

Address: Jalan Datin Halimah, 80200 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Daily, 7am – 7pm
Price: Free 

14. Kota Tinggi Firefly Park

(Credit: Kota Tinggi Firefly Park / Facebook)

Malls and cafes are aplenty in Singapore, but fireflies are hard to spot on our little red dot. If you’re looking for a Johor Bahru attraction, why not surprise your partner with a romantic trip to Kota Tinggi Firefly Park’s Firefly cruise? Together on the relaxing row down the Johor River, you’ll be charmed by a sea of glowing fireflies that resemble the starry night sky amidst other wildlife species. This is one of the best things for couples to do in JB to enjoy the magic of nature and create lasting memories. To enliven the experience, I recommend getting a wishing lantern or a love lock from the souvenir shop, so you can commemorate your trip by attaching it to the fence by the river!

Address: Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily, 1pm – 11pm
Price: Tickets from RM15 

15. Putuo Village

(Credit: Putuo Village / Facebook)

Like every other Singaporean, I love visiting Japan and religiously look forward to my next visit, especially to the scenic Arashiyama Bamboo Forests. Luckily, JB has its version in Putuo Village that was specially built to preserve Buddhist culture, so I can visit as often as I want! Located less than an hour’s drive away from JB Sentral, Putuo Village is home to the breathtaking Purple Bamboo Valley and Bodhi Sanctuary. After snapping some photos at the rainbow pathway and with other panda installations, beat the heat at the Fat Bamboo Cafe with their signature bamboo charcoal soft serve and glutinous rice

Address: 1488, Jalan Kampung, Off, Jalan Kota Tinggi – Kluang, Felda Taib Andak, 81000 Kulai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am – 6pm
Price: Tickets from RM10 

Things to do in JB – Shopping & entertainment

16. Johor Premium Outlets

(Credit: VVS / Pexels)

I’ll let you in on a shopaholic’s best-kept secret to score a better bang for your buck … There’s a spot in Johor where you can grab branded pumps for half the price! Take advantage of the favourable exchange rate at the Johor Bahru Premium Outlets by scoring up to 80% for crowd-favourite brands such as COACH, Levi’s, and Nike.

Apart from competitive prices, this shopping complex houses 150 renowned brands within its 45-acre space, as the first of its kind in the region! Products sold range from apparel to footwear and even bags, guaranteeing that all shoppers (and even budding ones) will leave satisfied without a gaping hole in their pocket.

Address: Jalan Premium Outlets Indahpura, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm

17. Ice skate at Paradigm Mall

(Credit: Blue Ice Skating Rink / Facebook)

With the disheartening closure of Singapore’s only Olympic-sized skating rink, JCube, the next best option is to visit Blue Ice Skating Rink located in Paradigm Mall! Covering 20,000 square feet of ground, this rink makes the perfect option to escape the scorching afternoon sun by skating or playing a game of ice hockey. I remember having lots of fun ice skating at JCube as a child, and you’re in for a similarly great experience at the Blue Ice Skating Rink! Unlike most, this rink uses real rather than synthetic ice, which means less friction and smoother gliding. So, whether you’re an expert or just starting, this setup makes for a much more enjoyable and well-controlled skating experience!

After your skating session, consider visiting Stars Archery or Camp5 Paradigm’s rock climbing walls if you’re seeking more action-packed things to do in JB for your next trip!

Address: Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru, 3F-30, Jalan Bertingkat Skudai, 81200, Johor Bahru
Opening hours:
Tue: 10am – 10pm
Wed – Sun: 2.30pm – 10pm
Price: From RM40

18. HOME By Tales Of Paws Dog Cafe

(Credit: HOME by Tales of Paws / Instagram)

Animal lovers, unite! Wherever I visit JB, I find myself gravitating towards pet cafes to interact with the adorable animals. Whether you have a pet at home or you’re simply looking to spend some quality time with these furry companions, HOME by Tales of Paws is a great place to recharge and unwind. The dogs are released from behind their gate, allowing you to get a video of them rushing out enthusiastically to gush over them at home. After spending an afternoon playing with them, the staff will help to gather the doggies and snap a commemorative Polaroid to conclude your session. 

As this is a 2-in-1 cafe, those seeking a more relaxed environment can head to the second floor to lounge with the cats. Do avoid lunchtime if you can, as the animals may get drowsy and less excitable after their meals (relatable)! The place is larger and better ventilated than some of the pet cafes I have visited prior. Highly recommended!

Address: 121, Jalan Serampang, Taman Sri Tebrau, Johor Bahru 80400
Opening hours: Daily except Wed. 10am – 6.15pm
* Do note that the last entry is at 5pm daily
Price: From RM88 

19. Kacha Kacha Photo Studio

(Credit: Kacha Kacha Studio / Kacha Kacha Website)

Kacha Kacha is a viral self-photoshoot studio in JB for families, couples, and friends! Choose between express and standard packages that include a private photoshoot experience with ample props and digital file downloads. Recently, they also launched DIY beading keychain kits if you feel like converting your photo into a keychain to hang on your bag! There is even a makeup zone for you to touch up your makeup before you head over to take your photos, and hear that the lighting is impressive! I previously found it gimmicky, but consider me convinced, and I’ll definitely be heading down to try it with my friends! 

Address: Block A #02, 08, Jln Ekoflora 7/2, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours:
Sun – Thur: 1pm – 9pm
Fri – Sat: 1pm – 10pm
Price: From RM20

20. Perfume Making at Sacree Scent Artisan

(Credit: Sacree Scent Artisan / Instagram)

If you’re just getting into scents like me but are wary of the price of DIY perfume-making workshops, visit Sacree Scent Artisan to tailor a perfume to your liking at an affordable price! I love how I’m able to customise the various notes and accents, as I find some perfumes slightly too gourmand for my liking. The lab has a wide range of scents, so there’s something for everyone, and the staff will guide you through the interesting process of choosing and mixing the scents. At the end, name your perfume and take a picture with your bottle for a keepsake! 

Address: Paradigm Mall JB (4F-13, Lbh Skudai, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Price: From RM120

21. Walea Spa & Retreat

(Credit: LOST IN JB Escape Rooms / Facebook)

After a day of fun, visit the popular Walea Spa & Retreat to unwind and loosen those knots. They offer unique massage treatments such as the Walea Transcendental Massage, which includes a body scrub of your choice from a list of intriguing options – aloe vera, apple, passionfruit, and lemon. Located just a stone’s throw away from KSL Resort and Holiday Plaza, this is an indulgent option if you’re staying nearby or if you simply want to relax before heading back.

Address: 6, Jalan Balau, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 7pm
Price: From RM48

What to pack for a day trip to JB?

(Credit: Diana / Pexels)

As you’ll be travelling around throughout the day, it’s recommended that you pack light without missing out on the essentials! For starters, remember to bring your passport and other personal documents or items. Having some cash on hand will also be handy as some stores only accept cash payments, and scrambling to find an ATM will surely sour your mood! With the unpredictable weather conditions in mind, it’s also wise to pack an umbrella or a portable fan. For navigation purposes, do consider packing a power bank and purchasing your SIM card or eSIM in advance!

What is the best way to get to JB?

(Credit: Aleksejs Bergmanis / Pexels)
  1. By public bus

Taking cross-border bus services is one of the most common and cheapest ways to travel to JB from Singapore. Refer to these tables for the cross-border bus fares and here for bus timings. Alternatively, you can take the following SBS Transit bus services to get to JB:

  • 950 – from Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange to JB Sentral Terminal
  • 160 – from Jurong East to Johor Bahru
  • 170 – from Queen Street Terminal to JB Larkin Terminal
  • 170X – from Kranji MRT Station to JB Sentral
  1. By train (KTM Shuttle Tebrau)

Those who want to avoid crowds and queues can consider the KTM Shuttle Tebrau, also known as the Singapore – Malaysia VTL train. It costs around $10 for a return trip, and only takes five minutes per trip. Simply book your tickets in advance online and then make your way to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint to board the train for a hassle-free trip. Don’t make the same mistake I did and aim to reach slightly earlier as the train departs promptly!

  1. By car or taxi

When planning a day trip to JB, you can also drive across the Woodlands or Tuas causeways (do have all the necessary documents ready to be stamped!). However, do be prepared for potential traffic jams. Alternatively, hail a taxi at the Queen Street taxi terminal to get to JB.

Do note that all foreign vehicles entering Malaysia from Singapore must register for a vehicle entry permit (VEP) and a radio frequency identification (VEP-RFID) tag, which should be attached to your vehicle’s windscreen or headlights. VEPs cost 20RM (~S$6.10) and registration can be done online via the official website. As of 1 Oct 2024, failure to apply for a VEP may result in fines up to 2,000RM (~S$610). 

What is the best time to enter JB?

(Credit: Pixabay / Pexels)

On weekdays, the optimal times to enter JB are before 8am or after 8pm. Alternatively, traffic tends to be lighter between 12pm-5pm. It is advisable to avoid travelling into JB on Monday mornings and Friday evenings, as these are peak times for commuters heading to and from work. One wrong move and you just might be stuck in an hour-long traffic jam. Sian

On weekends, peak hours typically begin around 8am on Saturdays and 11am on Sundays. To avoid congestion, cross the border after 11am on Saturdays and after 2pm on Sundays. When returning to Singapore on a Sunday, traffic can get heavy as early as 5pm, so it’s best to plan your return before sunset or after midnight.

If you’re still feeling kiasu, you can check LTA’s Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoint cameras on their website for accurate live images of the traffic on these causeways and checkpoints to better gauge your journey.

Have a blast with these exciting things to do in JB!

Engage in some quality bonding with family or friends over yummy food, exhilarating theme parks, and invigorating natural attractions in Johor Bahru. With a bustling entertainment and cultural scene, things to do in JB on your next trip are aplenty. Thinking of roughing it out on the road instead? Check out this guide on road trips to Malaysia from Singapore! In addition, gear up for your vacations with the best SIM cards for world travel and these travel essentials for an exciting yet restful trip!

This article was updated on 6 May 2025. Additional research done by Chloe Gee.

Shi Nan

Loves dressing up for no good reason. When she’s not writing, she's probably at the thrift shop or sipping coffee at a cafe.

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