JB getaway? Yes, please! Food, things to do, fun, and a change of scenery – we've got all the deets in our Johor Bahru guide.
We love returning to our neighbour up north (read: Malaysia), whether it’s for a road trip upstate or a flight to Kuala Lumpur. But for an easy day trip or somewhere nearby to spend the long weekend, JB is where it’s at. What’s not to like? All the excellent attractions to explore, shops to check out, and we can’t forget the food, obviously! 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. Tasik Biru
It’s good to get out of the concrete jungle and bask in nature once in a while. If you’re hankering to do that in JB, we know just the place. Let us introduce you to Tasik Biru, a former gold mine featuring a lake filled with bright blue water. (It got its colour thanks to a high concentration of poisonous arsenic substance.)
There are two routes to conquer; depending on the one you choose, it can take up to three hours to hike. Pro tip: wear proper shoes, slap on that sunscreen, and don’t forget a big bottle of water!
How to get there: Drive or book a Grab to Taman Awam BBKP in Kangkar Pulai. The hike kicks off from the car park.
Opening hours: 24 hours (for safety reasons, it’s advisable to hike during the daytime)
Tasik Biru, Bandar Baru Kangkar Pulai, 81110 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
2. Kacha Kacha Studio
Immortalise your Johor Bahru trip with friends by arranging a photoshoot at Kacha Kacha. Don’t worry, you won’t have to deal with photographers and all that jazz. The studio offers a self-photoshoot experience, with a white background and plenty of cute props for you to pose with. Channel your inner top model for 20 minutes before picking out your best shots for printing. You can even turn your photos into keychains!
How much: From $27 (RM90)
Opening hours: Sundays to Thursdays, 1pm to 9pm and Fridays to Saturdays, 1pm to 10pm
Kacha Kacha Studio, #02-08, Blok A, Eco Palladium, Jalan Ekoflora 7/2, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
3. Hey Decoupage
Been working hard throughout the week? We say give your brain a break and let your hands do all the work at Hey Decoupage. Take part in short workshops where you can dive into punch needle embroidery, mosaic art jamming, or creating your own terrazzo or marbled items. Or, have fun with all the board games available. One round of Exploding Kittens, anyone?
How much: From $11 (RM35)
Opening hours: Thursdays to Tuesdays, 10am to 7pm
Hey Decoupage, 54A Jalan Serampang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
4. 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…
How much: Free entry, though the total damage depends on how many books you’re getting
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
BookXcess Sunway JB, F-01 First Floor, Sunway Big Box Retail Park, Persiaran Medini 5, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
5. 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.
How much: Admission from $7 (RM24) with free coconut ice cream
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11am to 7pm
Chill ‘N Chow Cafe, 16-01, Jalan Austin Heights 8/4, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
6. 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.
How much: From $5.50 (RM18)
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 7pm
Forever Twenty DIY Studio, 51-02, Jalan Jaya Putra 7/6 , Bandar Jaya Putra, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
7. 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.
How much: From $30 (RM99)
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11am to 7pm
Tufting Nuts, 40-01, Jalan Austin Heights 3/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
8. 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.
How much: Admission at $7.55 (RM25) for adults and $4.55 (RM15) for children
Opening hours: Daily, 1pm to 11pm
Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia
9. 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.
How much: Free entry
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays and Saturdays to Sundays, 9am to 5pm
Istana Besar, 107, Jalan Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
10. 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.
How much: Free entry
Opening hours: 24 hours
Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
11. 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.
How to get there: Take a 90-minute ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal or drive from Singapore in under two hours.
Desaru Coast, Jalan Desaru Coast, Desaru, 81300 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia
12. 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.
How much: Day tickets start at $21 (RM69)
Opening hours: Varies by attraction (theme park closes on Wednesdays; water park closes on Tuesdays)
Legoland Malaysia, 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
Johor Bahru guide: Top food spots
13. 833 Lok Lok & Bubble Tea
Lok lok and bubble tea? Say less! This is a divine combination no sane person shouldn’t reject. Swing by this eatery for assorted meats, seafood, and vegetables on sticks dusted with the seasoning of your choice and paired with dipping sauces like Thai chilli, cheese, and sambal penyet. Wash everything down with a cup of ice cold bubble tea in various flavours.
Must-try items: Anything seafood (get your money’s worth!)
Opening hours: Daily, 3pm to 12am
833 Lok Lok & Bubble Tea, multiple locations including Adda Heights and Taman Kota Masai
14. Basilico
If you’re craving Italian food, make a beeline for this restaurant at Taman Mount Austin. The dishes are made from fresh, premium ingredients – one taste is all it takes for you to feel like you’ve been transported to Italy. It’s not Italian dining if you don’t pair your meal with wine, and Basilico has an impressive selection for you to choose from.
Must-try items: Basilico’s Signature; Grandma’s beef lasagne; gorgonzola cheese and winter truffle
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 10pm
Basilico, 17, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
15. 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.
What you can eat: Instant noodles; unlimited drink refills; DIY waffles
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 4am
Meetime, 37, Jln Setia 3/13, Taman Setia Indah, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
16. 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.
Must-try items: Banana fritters with assorted toppings; bakso noodles; lontong goreng
Opening hours: Daily, 5pm to 12am
Tebrau Food Truck Park, Jln Harmonium 24/1, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Johor Bahru guide: Best cafes
17. OutLine Cafe
Glamping is such a vibe, but who has the patience to deal with the heat and the outdoors? At OutLine Cafe, you can enjoy the glamping experience indoors, in air-conditioned comfort. Goodbye sun and pesky bugs! This spacious cafe takes it up a notch with a feature wall adorned with an illuminated moon alongside camping chairs and tables. Grab a seat and enjoy mains at affordable prices, or sip on matcha drinks to help you cool down.
Must-try items: Creamy truffle mushroom pasta; grilled chicken with cheese; mille crepe; Bleeding Matcha
Opening hours: Thursdays to Tuesdays, 11.30am to 10pm
OutLine Cafe, 22, Jalan Austin Height 7/8, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
18. Yeon Cafe
In the realm of aesthetic cafes, JB is coming for our throats. Have you visited this quaint little spot? You’ll feel as if you’ve just been transported to Seoul the moment you step in. Come hungry ‘cos you’ve got plenty to choose from. We’re talking about a wide variety of baked goods from scones to cakes and hearty Korean mains. Wash everything down with an iced yuzu jasmine tea. Don’t forget to take loads of photos for the ‘gram!
Must-try items: Spicy kimchi fried rice; creamy prawn ramen; genmaicha mochi tart
Opening hours: Daily, 10.30am to 10pm
Yeon Cafe, 12 Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
19. Soil
You’ve probably come across this cafe on social media more than once, thanks to its charming decor. Think cottagecore meets industrial minimalism, with gorgeous foliage covering the exterior and interiors awash with natural lighting. The pastry selection includes danishes with indulgent fillings, buttery croissants, and doughnuts. Enjoy the coffee scent perennially permeating throughout the cafe as you dig in.
Must-try items: Croissant aux amandes; ham and cheese croissant; matcha espresso
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 6pm
Soil, Unit SL009, Eco Spring Labs, Jalan Ekoflora Utama, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
20. Flowers in the Window
Even if you don’t come here for the full meals, you must get the baked goods here. We’re talking freshly baked sourdough loaves and croissants laminated and baked in-house. We recommend popping upstairs to check out more of the space. Each nook and cranny is perfect for relaxing with a cup of coffee. Just be careful not to trip over the knick knacks as you walk around (yes, we speak from experience).
Must-try items: Meatball hummus; lotus chips salmon bowl; orange passionfruit cinnamon danish
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 4pm
Flowers in the Window, 9 Jalan Dhoby, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
21. Ukiyo Cafe
This cafe in Johor Bahru scores high marks on aesthetics and Instagrammable factors. Just take a look at the light wood interior and terrazzo-style tables! It’s great for anyone with a sweet tooth as Ukiyo Cafe specialises in handcrafted French-Japanese desserts. Each cake is a delicate work of art that pairs perfectly with coffee. The tiramisu coffee and rose-flavoured lattes are our picks.
Must-try items: Sicily; Genie; Number One Girl; Miyazaki
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 7pm
Ukiyo Cafe, 17-02 Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
22. The Cool Cat Ice Cream
We don’t know about you, but the sun seems to shine a little brighter (and hotter) whenever we’re in Malaysia. And what do you need on hot days? Ice cream, of course. Pop by The Cool Cat. It’s a cosy glass cafe serving up scoops of ice cream in cups or cones with tons of toppings. Psst: if you know anyone getting married in JB, consider hiring the team! You can set up an ice cream booth with them so your guests can fill up on sweet treats.
Must-try flavours: Pandan coconut; Oreo; taro; chocolate
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Mondays, 2pm to 10.30pm
The Cool Cat Ice Cream, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Center, Jalan Yahya Awal, 80200 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
23. George & Dragon Cafe
The warm wood and quirky decor of this cafe will have you wondering if you’re really in Malaysia. The interior is reminiscent of medieval fantasy books with decorative barrels and exposed brick. We hear this is the place to be for some of the best British food in Johor Bahru. The menu features all-time favourites like fish and chips, Kerry lamb pie, and pasta.
Must-try items: Irish lamb pie; braised lamb shank; potato skins; fish and chips
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 10.30pm
George & Dragon Cafe, 1&3 Jalan Glasiar, Taman Tasek, 80200 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
24. Space Cafe
Savour delicious French pastries while enjoying vibrant downtown views at Space Cafe. You’ll be basking in the aroma of its rich, house-blended coffee while reclining at dreamy-looking window seats. We recommend trying the Coco Jumbo, a tropical-tasting cuppa that’ll put you in a holiday mood.
Must-try items: Coco Jumbo; orange Americano; caramel cinnamon cafe latte
Opening hours: Daily, 8am to 9pm
Space Cafe, G-11, Holiday Villa Johor Bahru City Centre, 260 Jalan Dato Sulaiman, 80250 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
25. Bev C
A fashion boutique as well as a contemporary cafe, Bev C feels like something you’d find in Soho, New York. There’s even a bed for customers to rest on! If you’re feeling warm from all the good-lookers flooding the store, chill out with a glass of iced coffee served with espresso ice cubes. We also recommend giving the charcoal croissant a try! The edgy pastry is paired with delicious toppings, perfect for Instagram.
Must-try items: Homemade charcoal croissant; squid ink rice rendang; black sesame lemon cream pie
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 6pm
Bev C, 54 Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
26. Just Want Coffee, The Factory 30
This JWC chain is housed in a massive factory building. We love how the chic industrial-style cafe is nicely furnished with brass pipes, brick walls and coffee bags hanging on the ceilings. Order its freshly baked, buttery croissants, and pair ’em with its signature iced coffee served in an amber glass bottle.
Must-try items: Hungry Jack Big Breakfast; JWC beef stew with potato puree; classic cold brew
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 11pm
The Factory by Just Want Coffee, 30 Jalan Mutiara Emas 5/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
27. The Brew Orchestra
This cafe brews amazing cuppas that will impress even the biggest coffee snobs. Check out its wide selection of speciality coffee beans from award-winning roasters (such as beans from Seoul’s beloved 180 Coffee Roasters). Aside from coffee, Brew Orchestra also serves scrumptious brunches and thickly-packed sandwiches that’ll keep you full as you venture around JB.
Must-try items: Rolling in the Teap; signature tiramisu
Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 7pm and Saturdays to Sundays, 8.30am to 7pm
The Brew Orchestra, 19 Jalan Molek 1/5C, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
28. Commune by the Creators
The clean interior of this cafe makes it the perfect spot to take respite from the bustle of city life. Tuck into warm, perfectly poured cups of coffee alongside a hot meal. We recommend the freshly baked bagels, or the yuzu eggs Benedict for that classic Instagrammable brunch. You can also go for one of the other mains if you need something more filling.
Must-try items: Commune signature baked eggs; yuzu eggs Benedict; basque burnt cheesecake
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 9am to 6pm
Commune by the Creators, Tama Adda Heights, 228 & 230 Jalan Adda 7, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
29. The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen
Taking up a spot on the cool list is this spiffy bed-and-breakfast, an off-shoot of the popular Faculty of Caffeine. Head here early for breakfast or brunch and have the indulgent English breakfast platter. If you want a quick getaway to Australia but don’t have time to fly there, you’re in luck! The interior of this spot is inspired by Melbourne’s cafes, which we absolutely adore.
Must-try items: The Breakfast Platter; croque madame; berries compote French toast
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 5pm
The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen, 33 Jalan Dhoby, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
30. The Atlas Maison
Designed with pine and muted grey touches, Atlas Coffee Embassy looks like it’s jumped right out of the pages of a Kinfolk magazine. While the main focus is the coffee, it also doles out delicious homely breakfasts including the usual scrambled eggs and ham affair. Try the sweet breakfast options if you’re not up for the savoury ones. The coffee is even made specifically for the taste of the typical Johorean.
Must-try items: Atlas’s baked egg; French toast & mascarpone cream; classic madeleine
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 5pm
The Atlas Maison, 32 Jalan Austin Heights 8/7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
31. Haru Coffee
This cafe will whisk you away to the land of K-dramas with its Korean-inspired menu and interiors. Think light and fluffy tofu cheesecakes and hot bibimbap or Shin Ramyun served alongside sweet dalgona coffee. Grab your close chingus and make some new memories of Johor Bahru at this cosy little cafe!
Must-try items: Haru Breakfast; berry matcha with croissant; Americano coconut fusion; Haru special latte
Opening hours: Fridays to Wednesdays, 8am to 6pm
Haru Coffee, 48 Jalan Adda 7, Taman Adda Heights, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Johor Bahru guide: Places to shop
32. Mid Valley Southkey
Are you bored of City Square Mall and Komtar? When you’ve cleared immigration, skip those malls and head straight for Mid Valley Southkey. 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.
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
33. The Commune Lifestyle Mall
If you like Mid Valley Southkey, you’re going to love this ginormous mall. The Commune doesn’t see itself as just another shopping mall – it’s a whole lifestyle destination with everything to offer… and more. The complex boasts popular retail stores and dining spots (there’s a Chagee drive-through!) along with 10 badminton courts and two futsal courts that are free for booking.
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
The Commune Lifestyle Mall, Pusat Komersial Indah, 291, Jalan Kiambang 10, Bandar Indahpura, 81000 Kulai, Johor, Malaysia
34. Sunway Big Box Retail Park
Sunway Big Box may be a little further away from your usual haunts, but trust us, the journey more than makes up for it. Located in Iskandar Puteri, the mall is giving industrial container park chic, and we’re all for it. This shopping complex houses the sprawling BookXcess, where you can get your fill of books and snap loads of photos for your IG. There are other fun things you can get up to, like bouncing around a trampoline park and living out your childhood at the arcade.
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Sunway Big Box Retail Park, Pusat Komersial Sunway Marketplace, Persiaran Medini 5, Sunway City, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
35. 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.
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Toppen Shopping Centre, No. 33A, Jln Harmonium, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
36. 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.
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Johor Premium Outlets, Jalan Premium Outlets, Indahpura, 81000 Kulaijaya, Johor Darul Takzim, Johor, Malaysia
37. 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!
Opening hours: Daily, 9.30am to 10pm (some locations may have varying opening hours)
Maslee Express, multiple locations including Johor Street Market and Desaru Utama
38. 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.
Opening hours: (Pasar Karat) Tuesdays to Sundays, 6pm to 2am; (Tebing Bandar Dato’ Onn) Daily, 2.30pm to 1.30am
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: Finest hotels
39. Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru
If you don’t wanna venture too far from the immigration checkpoint, consider staying at this sleek apartment-hotel. Select rooms offer breathtaking views of the ocean, which is exactly what you need after being stuck in Singapore’s concrete jungle for far too long. The best part? There are shuttle bus services that’ll bring you to malls like City Square and Mid Valley.
Room rates: From $42 (RM139)
Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru, Menara Tiga Serangkai, Jalan Tengku Azizah, Kim Teng Park, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
40. 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.
Room rates: From $132 (RM438) per night
Amari Johor Bahru, 82C, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
41. 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.
Room rates: From $135 (RM448) per night
St. Giles Southkey Hotel, Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
42. 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.
Room rates: From $60 (RM198) per night
Midori Concept Hotel, 57, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
43. 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.
Room rates: From $180 (RM595) per night
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru, 12, Jalan Ngee Heng, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
44. 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 is eco-friendly too.
Room rates: From $73 (RM242) per night
KSL Hot Spring Resort, 31, Jalan Kangkar Tebrau, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Well, what are you waiting for? It’s time to cross the Causeway and visit Johor Bahru!
