Ready for an epic day trip to Johor Bahru? This guide will walk you through the must-visit spots, local eats, and hidden gems that make JB a fantastic destination. Whether you're a seasoned JB explorer or it's your first time across the causeway, this itinerary promises excitement, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. Let’s dive in!

Frequent JB Trips Just Got Better!

Our visits to Johor Bahru have gone from once a year to once every few months, and with good reason. Each trip ends with a delightful meal and a soothing massage. With new shopping malls and bubble tea stores popping up every quarter, there’s always something fresh to explore. Bookmark this page because I'll keep it updated with new finds and recommendations by area!

Pro Tip: For those looking to maximize their trips, having a SIM card is crucial for easy navigation and finding top-rated spots. You can either grab a 10 RM SIM card with Hotlink or use a data roaming plan from a local telco like Starhub for seamless connectivity.

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

While spontaneous trips have their charm, planning ahead ensures you get the most out of your JB adventure. Purchase your train tickets in advance to avoid weekend traffic jams, which can get brutal. Train tickets sell out fast on weekends—so be quick! Also, book your massages early; the popular spots like Thai Odyssey fill up fast, especially on weekends.

Where to Go in JB?

JB has so much to offer, but to make the most of your day trip, it’s best to focus on one or two areas. Whether you’re shopping, eating, or exploring, we’ve got recommendations sorted by region so you can hit all the highlights without getting stuck in traffic.

Pro Tips for Beating the Causeway Traffic

Avoid long weekends if possible. The traffic can be intense, with jams lasting up to three hours. If you must travel on a long weekend, set off early—like 5 am early!

Exploring Bandar Johor Bahru / Jalan Dhoby

Once you clear immigration, you’ll find yourself in Bandar Johor Bahru (or JB Sentral). This area is perfect for first-timers or those who prefer to stay close to the city center. From shopping to local eats, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

Shopping Malls to Visit:

City Square Mall & Komtar JBCC: These malls are right next to immigration and are packed with stores like Uniqlo, Sephora, and H&M. They’re perfect for catching a movie, grabbing a bite, or indulging in some retail therapy.
Midvalley Southkey: Legend has it that there are more Singaporeans in this mall. Throw a stone anywhere here and you can find a Singaporean.

Food Highlights:

The Replacement - Lodge & Kitchen: Inspired by Melbourne’s café scene, this spot is perfect for brunch. Its cozy interior and delicious offerings have made it a staple in JB.
Hiap Joo Banana Cake: This old-school bakery is famous for its wood-fired banana cakes, a must-try for any visitor.
It Roo Café: Known for its crispy chicken chop, It Roo Café is a local favorite. The grilled version is my personal pick!
Kam Long Curry Fish Head: For curry fish head lovers, this is the place to be. The curry, paired with fresh fish and vegetables, is perfect with a bowl (or two) of rice.
Palates & Bagels by T.A.M: Best bagels in JB

Attractions:

Johor Bahru Zoo: One of Malaysia’s oldest zoos, this is a great stop for families and animal lovers. Entry is just 2 RM for adults!
Bazar Karat Pasar Malam: Discover a bustling night market filled with second-hand treasures and local snacks. It’s a unique experience, perfect for evening exploration.
Johor Premium Outlet: A vast array of discounted premium branded clothes, bags, sportswear, Nike, Adidas, Puma, food options for the family. Great place for the weekend.
Skudai R&R: Discover convenience here with most petrol stations, largest EV Charging Cluster, largest carpark with more than 200 parking lots and cleanest toilet. Satisfy your tastebuds with the variety of food and coffee options.

Accommodation Options:

Hilton DoubleTree: Ideal for a luxury stay with top-notch amenities.
Amari Hotel: A great option if you want to stay close to the immigration checkpoint.

Explore Pelangi / Taman Sentosa / Tebrau Jaya

For those looking to dive deeper into JB, these areas offer an array of food options, shopping malls, and local culture. From delicious Bak Kut Teh to authentic Korean BBQ, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Shopping & More:

KSL Shopping Mall: A favorite among Singaporeans, offering everything from supermarkets to cinemas.
Giant Hypermarket Leisure Mall: Ideal for stocking up on household essentials.

Hipster Vibes in Taman Mount Austin / Taman Desa Tebrau

If you’re into Instagram-worthy cafés and trendy hangouts, Mount Austin is the place to be. This area is buzzing with life and has quickly become JB’s hippest neighborhood.

Must-Visit Cafés:

Founders Café: This café became a hotspot after Jay Chou’s visit. Expect great vibes, though it gets crowded on weekends.
Mok Mok, Bloom Café: Famous for its beautiful ambiance and mouthwatering burgers.

Shopping & Attractions:

Aeon Tebrau City: A one-stop-shop for shopping and entertainment.
Ikea Tebrau: Pick up some stylish Scandinavian furniture for your home.

Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a shopping spree, Johor Bahru has something for everyone. Plan ahead, explore smart, and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

JB Trips - Pro Tips