What's the best and nearest getaway? Johor Bahru, of course! There are plenty of things to do here, and we have all the deets.
Whether it’s a road trip upstate or a flight to Kuala Lumpur, we love returning to Malaysia repeatedly. But for an easy day trip or somewhere nearby to spend the long weekend, Johor Bahru is where it’s at. What’s not to like? Think about all the excellent attractions to explore, shops to check out and, obviously, the food! Here’s our list of the best hotels, places to eat and shop, and things to do in Johor Bahru.
Johor Bahru guide: Attractions and things to do
1. Chill ‘N Chow Cafe
We know a paw-fect place where you can take it easy with a few furry friends. This canine cafe in Mount Austin is home to five adorable chow chows that will clamour for your attention… as long as you have treats. No reservation is required here – just walk in (wear your socks or purchase them at the counter), get your tickets, and have fun interacting with the friendly doggos.
Chill ‘N Chow Cafe, 16-01, Jalan Austin Heights 8/4, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
2. Forever Twenty DIY Studio
All the artsy folks are going to love this place. This pretty pink studio offers fun art activities to flex your creativity. If you want something truly unique, go for the toast jamming sesh. You’ll be handed a few paint pots (they’re actually yoghurt) to decorate your canvas, aka toast. The best part is you can eat it once you’re done! You can also design your own phone case, do sand painting, or create a bead bracelet.
Forever Twenty DIY Studio, 51-02, Jalan Jaya Putra 7/6 , Bandar Jaya Putra, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
3. BookXcess Sunway JB
You may be familiar with this Instagrammable bookstore in Kuala Lumpur. Well, looks like you don’t have to travel too far to visit the space again. BookXcess has opened a branch in JB, and yes, this outlet is equally IG-worthy. There’s a gigantic eight-metre cube-shaped bookshelf in the middle of the store where you can snap photos and, of course, grab a book or two. Excuse us, we’ll need a good few hours here…
BookXcess Sunway JB, F-01 First Floor, Sunway Big Box Retail Park, Persiaran Medini 5, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
4. Tufting Nuts
Have you always wanted to try rug tufting? Well, you can do that in Johor Bahru. Enter Tufting Nuts, a studio in Mount Austin where no prior experience is required, and you can enjoy a relaxing session. An experienced tufter will be on hand to guide you during the workshop, and you’ll leave with a rug that you can show off anywhere in your home. If rug tufting sounds intimidating, you can go easy with a pillow or tote bag.
Tufting Nuts, 40-01, Jalan Austin Heights 3/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
5. Kota Tinggi Firefly Park
If there’s one place you should visit in Johor Bahru, make sure it’s this nature wonderland. You get to hop on a nighttime boat cruise down the Johor River and marvel at the fireflies surrounding you. It’s truly a mesmerising sight. Along the way, you’ll learn more about the river’s history. After the boat tour, write your wish on a lantern and let it fly towards the sky. This is a perfect romantic activity for couples.
Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia
6. Istana Besar
This former home of Sultan Abu Bakar is the grand palace of the state. Nowadays, the palace is mainly used for official ceremonies, while another area is converted into the Royal Abu Bakar Museum which houses various heirlooms and antiques. Fall in love with the architecture, which is influenced by Anglo-Malay styles.
Istana Besar, 107, Jalan Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
7. Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street
Explore JB’s old town, which is named after one of the state’s founding fathers. Here’s where you can check out colourful murals and heritage buildings – whip your phones out and take loads of photos for the ‘gram. When you’re done, pop into the antique shops for a spot of shopping before seeking refuge from the heat by dipping into the cafes and restaurants.
Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
8. Desaru Coast
Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city by paying Desaru a visit. There are plenty of things to do here, from letting your hair down at the waterpark to wakeboarding and parasailing at the beach. If you prefer on-land activities, you can visit the ostrich farm or pick your own fruits at the fruit farm. Extend your stay at Desaru by checking into the resorts.
Desaru Coast, Jalan Desaru Coast, Desaru, 81300 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia
9. Legoland Malaysia
What’s a trip to JB without dropping by Legoland Malaysia, the first international theme park in the country? This long-time favourite destination is an excellent place to spend time with the fam. There are three areas to explore here: the theme park, which comes with eight themed zones; the massive water park; and the aquarium, which houses over 120 fish species in 11 habitat zones. Planning to stay the night? Book a room at the Legoland Hotel, which is always a hit with kids.
Legoland Malaysia, 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
Johor Bahru guide: Top food spots
10. Meetime
Why eat instant noodles in a cafe when you can have it at home? It’s for the experience, of course. Meetime has a wide selection to choose from, including popular Korean and Japanese brands. All you gotta do is pick the one for your stomach, head to the automated cooking station, and top up with fried shallots before tucking in. Easy peasy! Grab a canned drink and ice cream to sweeten your meal. It opens till 4am daily, which makes this a good supper spot before you return home.
Meetime, 37, Jln Setia 3/13, Taman Setia Indah, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
11. Tebrau Food Truck Park
Are you feeling peckish? We say skip the cafes and restaurants and head to Tebrau Food Truck Park in Desa Tebrau. You’ll find over 10 food trucks offering myriad selections including Western fare, bakso noodles, and decadent sweet treats. Swing by in the evening and enjoy your meal during sunset. The live performances and fairy lights add a lovely touch to the experience.
Tebrau Food Truck Park, Jln Harmonium 24/1, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
12. Taman Mount Austin
When it comes to gastronomical adventures, this bustling neighbourhood is the perfect place to be. You’ll be spoilt for choice here. Craving caffeine? Atlas Coffee Embassy is a highly raved coffeehouse with a gorgeous interior by a Japanese designer. If you have space in your stomach, we recommend hitting up Bean Jr. Soya beancurd with a side of popping pearl toppings? Yes, please!
Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
13. Eco Spring Labs
You should explore this hidden gem if you can’t tear yourself from cafe-hopping. Eco Spring Labs is a haven of Instagrammable cafes, gardens, and shophouses. You’ll have a field day just being here. Soil is a cottage-style cafe with gorgeous foliage covering its facade. Oh, and the offerings are not too bad either. Pop by Morihana Pastry if you’re a fan of pies and want more cakes.
Eco Spring Labs, 1, Jalan Ekoflora Utama, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Johor Bahru guide: Places to shop
14. Toppen Shopping Centre
This JB mega mall is where you can shop till you drop, take part in some fun activities, and refuel. Stop by the integrated Ikea to get your home needs and explore the showrooms for inspo. If you visit at the right time, you can check out the lively night market, which has plenty of food options to chow down. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the rooftop garden before calling it a day.
Toppen Shopping Centre, No. 33A, Jln Harmonium, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
15. Maslee Express
It’s no secret everyone goes to Johor Bahru for a spot of grocery shopping. While there are many supermarkets you can visit in this state, we highly recommend Maslee Express at Johor Street Market. It’s bright, spacious, and stocked with plenty of necessities you can get for your home. Pro tip: get the Vinda range of cleaning products. The citrus-scented wet wipes easily clean up any spills!
Maslee Express, Lot CD 01, B5, Johor Street Market, Pusat Bandar Tampoi, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
16. Mid Valley South Key
Are you bored of City Square Mall and Komtar? When you’ve cleared immigration, bypass those malls and head straight for Mid Valley South Key. This sprawling complex has everything you need: a dental clinic for your pearlie white appointments, a massage parlour, various nail and hair salons, and craft shops. There’s also an indoor kids’ playground, so the little ones can tire themselves while adults explore the shopping centre.
Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
17. Johor Premium Outlets
For the bougie folks out there (no judgment here), Johor Premium Outlets is where you can get your goods at a steal. Marc Jacobs, Ferragamo, Bally, Burberry… basically every high-end brand you can think of. If you’re into high-street fashion, you can drop by Gap and Victoria’s Secret.
Johor Premium Outlets, Jalan Premium Outlets, Indahpura, 81000 Kulaijaya, Johor Darul Takzim, Johor, Malaysia
18. Pasar malams
Of course, you can’t talk about shopping at Johor Bahru and not drop by the night markets. Pasir Karat is where it’s at for bargain shopping and street food. Check out the vintage stores for treasures to add to your closet. Another inexpensive shopping destination is Tebing Bandar Dato’ Onn, which comes alive at night with food trucks, live performances, and roadside stalls. Keep the little ones preoccupied with activities such as ATV rides and fishing.
Pasar Karat, Jalan Segget, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Tebing Bandar Dato’ Onn, Jln Dato’ Onn Utama, Nasa City, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Johor Bahru guide: The best hotels
19. Amari Johor Bahru
Here’s a top hotel in JB if you’re looking for some good ol’ R&R. It’s conveniently located near malls and food places, so you can get some shopping done and enjoy a meal within walking distance. Travelling with the fam? Consider checking into the family suite, which has two bedrooms and a living room. If you don’t plan to venture out, you can soak up the sun at the hotel’s pool and chill out at the Breeze Spa Cafe.
Amari Johor Bahru, 82C, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
20. St. Giles Southkey Hotel
Located within Mid Valley Southkey, St. Giles Southkey Hotel is easy to return to after a day at the shopping complex. Enjoy stunning views of the river or the city from your room, which comes equipped with bay windows and cushy beds. Pop by The View Bar & Lounge if you fancy a tipple. Get some exercise done at the outdoor rooftop pool or fitness centre. Causeway Cafe has high tea buffets on the weekends, where you can have light bites and not contend with the crowds.
St. Giles Southkey Hotel, Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
21. KSL Hot Spring Resort
We can’t get enough of this family-friendly hotel in Johor Bahru. The facilities here cater to everyone! There’s an outdoor playground, so kids can stay active and get their fun in the sun. Meanwhile, adults can relax in the hot spring spa or the sauna room. Be sure to check out the golf simulator, which promises excitement for the whole brood. We like that the hotel’s eco-friendly too.
KSL Hot Spring Resort, 31, Jalan Kangkar Tebrau, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
22. Midori Concept Hotel
Planning to put up at Taman Mount Austin for the night? Consider checking into this eco-friendly boutique hotel. The first thing that catches your eye is the leafy facade, which extends into the accommodation once you step into it. Natural light shines through the hotel lobby, all thanks to the translucent roof. The suite rooms are elegantly furnished with baroque velvet furniture and a bathtub to soak in.
Midori Concept Hotel, 57, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
23. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru
If accommodation is your top priority, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru is your best bet. This premium hotel has everything you need – comfortable beds, classy bathrooms, and a work desk to dump all your day’s shopping. For those driving in from Singapore, you’ll be glad to know there’s free parking here. Splurge a little bit more for your room to gain access to the lounge.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru, 12, Jalan Ngee Heng, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Well, what are you waiting for? It’s time to cross the Causeway and visit Johor Bahru!
