Johor Bahru in next 3 month
December in Johor Bahru is hot and humid with occasional rain showers and moderate air quality.
Usual trip duration
A 2-3 day trip to Johor Bahru allows you to explore the city's cultural and historical attractions, visit theme parks like Legoland Malaysia, and indulge in the local cuisine and shopping experiences.
Affordable with some expensive options
The best time to visit Johor Bahru is generally during the dry season, which falls between March and October. During these months, you can expect less rainfall and more sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. The humidity is also slightly lower compared to the monsoon season. However, keep in mind that Johor Bahru experiences relatively consistent temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 30°C to 32°C (86°F to 90°F). If you prefer cooler temperatures and don't mind occasional rain, you can still visit during the off-season. The shoulder seasons (March-April and September-October) offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Avoid the peak holiday seasons, especially during school holidays and public holidays in Malaysia and Singapore, as Johor Bahru can get quite crowded, and prices for accommodations and attractions may increase.
Johor Bahru is easily accessible by various modes of transportation:
Mode | Details |
---|---|
By Air | Senai International Airport (JHB) serves Johor Bahru. It offers both domestic and international flights, connecting to major cities in Malaysia, Southeast Asia, and beyond. You can take a taxi, bus, or ride-sharing service from the airport to the city center. |
By Road (From Singapore) | Many buses and taxis operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru, crossing the Causeway or the Second Link. These are two land border crossings that connect the two countries. The journey takes about 1-2 hours, depending on traffic. You can also drive your own car, but be prepared for potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. |
By Road (Within Malaysia) | Johor Bahru is well-connected to other major cities in Malaysia via the North-South Expressway. You can take a bus, taxi, or drive your own car. |
By Train | Johor Bahru Sentral is the main railway station. Trains connect Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur and other cities in Malaysia. You can also take the Shuttle Tebrau train service to Woodlands, Singapore. |
Johor Bahru boasts a variety of attractions for all types of travelers. Here are some of the must-visit spots:
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
LEGOLAND Malaysia | A popular theme park featuring LEGO-themed rides, shows, and attractions. It's a great place for families with children. |
Puteri Harbour | A waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and attractions like Sanrio Hello Kitty Town and Thomas Town. |
Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque | A historical mosque with stunning architecture and a mix of Victorian, Malay, and Moorish styles. |
Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple | A unique Hindu temple adorned with intricate glass decorations. |
Istana Bukit Serene | The Royal Palace and official residence of the Sultan of Johor. While the palace itself is not open to the public, you can view the impressive gate and gardens from outside. |
Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street | A historical street lined with traditional shophouses, cafes, and art galleries. |
Angry Birds Activity Park | An indoor activity park featuring Angry Birds-themed games and attractions. |
Johor Bahru offers a range of activities to suit different interests. Here are some popular options:
Johor Bahru is a shopping paradise, offering everything from luxury brands to local handicrafts. Here are some of the most popular shopping destinations:
Shopping Spot | What to Expect |
---|---|
Johor Premium Outlets | A large outlet mall featuring a wide range of international and local brands at discounted prices. |
Mid Valley Southkey | A modern shopping mall with a variety of retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment options. |
City Square Johor Bahru | Located near the Johor Bahru CIQ (Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine) complex, it offers a convenient shopping experience for those crossing the border from Singapore. |
KSL City Mall | A popular mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema. It's also known for its massage parlors and karaoke centers. |
Holiday Plaza | A budget-friendly mall with a variety of shops selling electronics, clothing, and accessories. |
Johor Bahru is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of dining options from hawker fare to upscale restaurants. Here are some of the best places to eat:
Category | Restaurant/Location |
---|---|
Hawker Food | Restoran Ya Wang (for herbal roast duck), Restoran Kin Hua (for dim sum), and Taman Sentosa Hawker Centre. |
Seafood | Todak Seafood Restaurant (for fresh seafood with a view), Yi Jia Seafood Restaurant, and Grand Bayview Seafood Restaurant. |
Cafes | Flowers in the Window (for organic food and coffee), The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen, and Bev C Cafe. |
Fine Dining | Amari Johor Bahru, Tosca Trattoria Italiana, and The Marq |
Johor Bahru is a great base for exploring other parts of Johor and even Singapore. Here are some popular nearby destinations:
Destination | Distance | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Singapore | ~ 1 hour (depending on traffic) | Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Universal Studios Singapore, Orchard Road (shopping). |
Desaru Coast | ~ 1.5 hours | Beaches, golf courses, adventure waterpark, fruit farms. |
Mersing | ~ 2 hours | Gateway to Tioman Island and other nearby islands, beaches, diving, snorkeling. |
Kukup | ~ 1 hour | Fishing village, seafood restaurants, mangrove forests. |
From Johor Bahru, you can easily plan several exciting day trips. Here are a few ideas:
Like any major city, Johor Bahru has its share of safety concerns. However, it's generally considered safe for tourists who take necessary precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, especially in crowded areas like markets and shopping malls. It is always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. Use reputable transportation services, such as taxis or ride-hailing apps, and be cautious of unsolicited offers from strangers. By taking these precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Johor Bahru. It's also a good idea to check travel advisories from your home country for any specific safety concerns or recommendations before you travel.
The local currency in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). It's advisable to exchange your currency for Ringgit upon arrival, either at the airport or at money changers in the city. Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments such as hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants. However, smaller shops and street vendors may prefer cash. It's always a good idea to have some Ringgit on hand for these situations. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed. Be sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your credit or debit cards. Some establishments may charge a small fee for credit card transactions, so it's always best to check beforehand.
The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia (Malay). However, English is widely spoken in Johor Bahru, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and shopping malls. You'll find that most locals are able to communicate in English to some extent. Other languages spoken include Mandarin, Tamil, and various Chinese dialects. Learning a few basic Malay phrases can be helpful and is often appreciated by locals. Here are a few useful phrases: Selamat pagi (Good morning), Terima kasih (Thank you), Maaf (Sorry/Excuse me), and Berapa harga ini? (How much is this?). Even a small effort to speak the local language can enhance your interactions with the locals and provide a more immersive cultural experience.
Yes, being aware of cultural etiquettes can significantly enhance your experience and show respect for the local customs in Johor Bahru. Here are a few key points to keep in mind: