The Ultimate Guide to a Day Trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru

Thinking of a quick escape from the city? The bustling, vibrant city of Johor Bahru (JB) is a perennial favorite for Singaporeans and tourists alike, offering a tantalizing mix of incredible food, affordable shopping, and unique culture just across the causeway. But with stories of traffic jams and border queues, you might be asking: “Is a day trip to Johor Bahru really worth it?”

The answer is a resounding yes! A day trip to JB is absolutely worth the journey, and this guide will show you exactly how to do it efficiently, affordably, and with maximum enjoyment. Get ready to explore the best of what our Malaysian neighbor has to offer.

Johor Bahru Day Trip: Quick Facts

Category	Details
Distance from Singapore	Approx. 25-30km from downtown Singapore to JB Sentral. The physical distance is short, but travel time varies.
Average Travel Time	1.5 – 3 hours (one-way, door-to-door), highly dependent on transport method and traffic.
Best Time to Go	Weekdays (especially Tuesday to Thursday) to avoid the infamous weekend traffic jams.
Estimated Cost	SG$60 – SG$175 per person for an all-inclusive day trip.
Currency	Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

How to Get From Singapore to Johor Bahru

Choosing your mode of transport is the most critical part of planning your JB day trip. Your journey will primarily be via the Woodlands Causeway, the main artery connecting the two cities. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru, helping you pick the perfect option for your budget and timeline.

First, here’s a quick comparison:

Method	Avg. Cost (One-Way)	Avg. Time	Best For
Public Bus	~SG$3	1.5 – 3+ hrs	Budget Travelers
Train (KTM)	SG$5	< 1 hr	Speed & Predictability
Cross-Border Taxi	~SG$80/car	1 – 2.5 hrs	Groups & Families
Driving	Varies (Tolls & VEP)	1 – 3+ hrs	Flexibility & Big Shoppers

By Public Bus (The Budget-Friendly Choice)

For those on a tight budget, the public bus is a fantastic option. The process involves a bit of hopping on and off: you’ll board in Singapore, alight at the Singapore checkpoint for immigration, re-board a bus, cross the causeway, and then alight again at the Malaysian checkpoint. Popular services include SBS Transit (buses 160 from Jurong East, 170 from Queen Street) and Causeway Link (various ‘CW’ buses from Kranji MRT, Queen Street, and Jurong East). While it’s the cheapest, be prepared for potential delays during peak hours.

By Train (The Fastest & Smartest Way)

The KTM Shuttle Tebrau is the undisputed champion for speed and convenience. This 5-minute train ride zips you from Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore directly to JB Sentral. The best part? Immigration for both countries is cleared right at the train station before you board, meaning you bypass all road traffic.

CRITICAL NOTE: This is no secret! Tickets sell out weeks, sometimes even a month, in advance. You must book your tickets online via the KTMB website as early as possible to secure a spot.

By Cross-Border Taxi or Private Hire Car (The Convenient Option)

If you’re traveling in a group, with family, or simply value comfort, a cross-border taxi is a brilliant choice. The biggest advantage is that you do not need to alight at immigration; simply hand your passports to the driver at each checkpoint window. Licensed taxis can be found at the Queen Street Terminal, or you can book private hire cars through apps like Grab or Klook. If you’re wondering how much is a taxi from Singapore to Johor Bahru, expect to pay between SG$60 and SG$100 per vehicle one-way.

Top 5 Things to Do on a Johor Bahru Day Trip

Once you’ve arrived, a world of sights, sounds, and flavors awaits. Here are the top five must-do activities for a perfect first-time day trip.

1. Explore the Cafes and Street Art at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee

   Step back in time along this charming heritage street. Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is the heart of JB’s old town, lined with beautifully preserved pre-war shophouses that now host a vibrant mix of traditional coffee shops and trendy, modern cafes. It’s a top photography spot where you can hunt for street art, grab a famous banana cake from the legendary Hiap Joo Bakery, and sip artisanal coffee at Flowers in the Window. It’s the perfect place to start your JB adventure.

2. Go Shopping at City Square Mall & Komtar JBCC

   Conveniently connected to the JB Sentral checkpoint, these two malls are a shopaholic’s paradise. You’ll find a mix of international brands and local stores, often at prices significantly lower than in Singapore. Whether you’re looking for fashion, electronics, or just want to catch a movie, the sheer convenience makes this a must-do. Plus, the air-conditioning is a welcome escape from the tropical heat!

3. Indulge in a Legendary Curry Fish Head

   You can’t say you’ve been to JB without trying its most iconic dish. Make a beeline for Kam Long Ah Zai Curry Fish Head, an institution that has been serving its signature claypot curry for decades. The rich, aromatic gravy filled with fresh fish, tofu puffs, and vegetables is pure comfort food. Be prepared to queue—it’s that good and absolutely worth the wait.

4. Get a Bird’s-Eye View from Skyscape

   For a breathtaking perspective, head to the top of Menara JLand. Skyscape offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Johor Bahru skyline and across the strait to Singapore. The main attraction is the glass-floored sky bridge, which lets you “walk on air” 149 meters above the ground. It’s a unique experience that offers a fantastic sense of the city’s scale. Tickets cost around MYR 28 for adults.

5. Visit the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

   Discover one of the most unique Hindu temples in the world. The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is a dazzling structure, intricately adorned with over 300,000 pieces of colored glass mosaic. It’s a tranquil and awe-inspiring sight. Entry is by a small donation (approx. MYR 10), and remember to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) to show respect.

Sample Itinerary: The Ultimate Food & Shopping Day Trip

Want a ready-made plan? Follow this schedule for a packed day of delicious food and great shopping.

Time	Activity	Notes
8:00 AM	Cross the Border	Take the 8:30 AM KTM train from Woodlands for a fast, traffic-free crossing.
9:30 AM	Breakfast at Hiap Joo Bakery	Arrive at JB Sentral, take a short walk to Jalan Tan Hiok Nee. Grab a fresh, famous banana cake.
10:30 AM	Cafe Hopping & Street Art	Explore the heritage street. Visit The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen for great coffee and photos.
1:00 PM	Lunch at Kam Long Curry Fish Head	A short walk from the cafe street. Be prepared to queue, it’s part of the experience!
2:30 PM	Shopping Spree	Head back to City Square Mall / Komtar JBCC for some well-deserved retail therapy.
5:00 PM	Relax & Recharge	Catch a movie, get an affordable massage, or enjoy a final snack at the mall.
7:00 PM	Head Back to Singapore	Aim to cross the border before the evening peak traffic builds up for a smoother journey home.

Where to Eat in JB: A Foodie’s Guide

Beyond our itinerary picks, JB is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Here are a few more recommendations:

• Local Delicacies (MYR 15-40): Don’t miss the famous herbal duck at Restoran Ya Wang or the classic Hainanese chicken chop at IT Roo Cafe, which claims to serve the “best chicken chop in town.”
• Trendy Cafes (MYR 30-60): For picture-perfect settings and great brunch, check out Flowers in the Window or the industrial-chic Bev C Cafe.
• Seafood Feasts (MYR 80+): If you have time and are willing to take a short Grab ride, the Stulang Laut area offers fantastic, fresh seafood restaurants with waterfront views.

Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Smooth Trip

A little preparation goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind for a hassle-free day trip.

• Currency: Exchange a small amount of Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) in Singapore for small purchases, but for better rates, use a multi-currency card like YouTrip or Revolut, or withdraw from an ATM in JB.
• Data: Stay connected easily by purchasing an eSIM online before you go or grabbing a local SIM card at the checkpoint.
• Transport within JB: The ride-hailing app Grab is your best friend. It’s reliable, affordable, and the easiest way to get around the city beyond the central area.
• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity from your date of travel. This is a strict requirement.
• Avoid Jams: We can’t say it enough—if you can, avoid traveling on weekends, Singaporean public holidays, and Malaysian public holidays. Always check live traffic on Google Maps before you leave.

What to Pack for a Day Trip to JB

Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist:

• ✅ Passport with 6 months validity
• ✅ Malaysian Ringgit (cash for small stalls) & Credit/Multi-currency Card
• ✅ A portable power bank to keep your phone charged
• ✅ Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be doing a lot of it!)
• ✅ A reusable shopping bag for all your bargains
• ✅ A small umbrella or light jacket for unexpected rain showers

Johor Bahru Day Trip Budget Breakdown

Wondering how much to set aside? Here’s a sample budget to help you plan.

Expense	Budget Trip	Mid-Range Trip
Transportation	SG$10 (Bus/Train)	SG$25 (Train + Grab rides)
Food & Drinks	SG$25 (Local eateries)	SG$50 (Cafes + Restaurant)
Activities	SG$5 (Temple donation)	SG$20 (Skyscape entry)
Shopping/Misc	SG$20	SG$80+
TOTAL PER PERSON	~ SG$60	~ SG$175

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you do a day trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru?

Yes, absolutely! It’s one of the most popular and easiest day trips from Singapore. With efficient transport options like the train, you can be in the heart of JB in about an hour, leaving you with a full day to eat, shop, and explore.

What is the best way to travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru?

It depends on your priority. The fastest way is the KTM Shuttle Tebrau train. The cheapest way is by public bus. The most convenient way, especially for a group or family, is a cross-border taxi.

Is Johor Bahru worth visiting from Singapore?

Definitely. It offers a fantastic change of scenery with delicious and affordable food, great shopping deals, and a growing cafe culture. The value for money you get on food, services like massages, and shopping makes it a very rewarding trip.

Is there a rapid train from Singapore to Johor Bahru?

Currently, the fastest train is the 5-minute KTM Shuttle. However, a high-speed Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link is under construction and is expected to be completed around 2026. Once launched, this will make the journey even faster and more seamless for commuters and day-trippers.

TL;DR: Your Johor Bahru Day Trip Cheat Sheet

• Best Transport: Take the KTM train for speed. Book it weeks in advance!
• Must-Eat: Banana cake from Hiap Joo Bakery and curry fish head from Kam Long.
• Must-Do: Explore the heritage cafes on Jalan Tan Hiok Nee and shop at City Square Mall.
• Top Tip: Go on a weekday (Tuesday-Thursday) to skip the worst of the traffic.
• Money: Use a multi-currency card for the best exchange rates.

Conclusion

A day trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru is a fantastic mini-adventure that promises big rewards without breaking the bank. It’s easy, accessible, and packed with enough delicious food and unique experiences to fill any itinerary. So, use this guide, book that train ticket, and get ready to explore!

What are you most excited to try in JB? Let us know in the comments below!