Places to Visit in Johor Bahru Malaysia

About Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru (often called JB) is the southern gateway of Malaysia, just across the causeway from Singapore. Known for its vibrant street food, modern shopping malls, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a must-visit for both Singaporeans and international travelers exploring famous cities in Malaysia.

Many visitors compare it to places to visit in KL or Kuala Lumpur attractions, but Johor Bahru offers its own charm with historical buildings, theme parks, and seaside escapes. While places to visit in Langkawi or places to visit in Penang offer island and heritage experiences, JB stands out for its accessibility and mix of urban and local culture.

Did You Know?
Over 15 million Singaporeans cross into Johor Bahru every year for shopping, dining, and short getaways, making it one of the best places to visit in West Malaysia for quick trips.

Stay connected while travelling to Johor Bahru

Avoid expensive roaming fees by getting Circles.Life Borderless Plans, which let you stay online in Malaysia without switching SIM cards.

SIM Only and eSIM Plans for Malaysia

Last updated on: 5 August 2025

Steps to Activate Circles.Life Roaming for Johor Bahru

1. Open your Circles.Life app.

2. Go to Roaming Plans.

3. Select Malaysia from the country list.

4. Choose your preferred plan.

5. Confirm payment and activate instantly.

Top Attractions in Johor Bahru You Shouldn’t Miss

1. Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

Location: Jalan Gertak Merah
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

One of the most iconic landmarks in Johor Bahru, this mosque blends Victorian and Moorish architecture. Its hilltop position offers panoramic views of the Johor Strait, making it as photogenic as some best places to visit in Malaysia during December when the weather is clear.

2. Legoland Malaysia Resort

Location: Nusajaya
Entry Fee: From RM 199 (adults)
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Perfect for families, this theme park features over 40 rides, water slides, and a miniature Lego-built world. If you’re looking for places to visit in Langkawi with family or places to visit in Penang with family, Legoland is JB’s top contender.

3. Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Location: Jalan Trus
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

A historic temple dating back over a century, it’s an important spiritual site and a cultural gem similar to those found in places to visit in Ipoh Old Town.

4. Johor Premium Outlets

Location: Indahpura, Kulai
Entry Fee: Free (shopping)
Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

This luxury outlet mall offers discounts on international brands year-round, making it a shopping destination rivaling Kuala Lumpur attractions.

5. Danga Bay

Location: Johor Bahru waterfront
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours

A scenic waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and carnival rides. It’s a great evening spot similar to the seaside vibes in places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

6. Istana Besar (Grand Palace)

Location: Jalan Ibrahim
Entry Fee: RM 10 (museum entry)
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Once the royal palace of the Sultan of Johor, this building showcases royal heritage and artifacts, much like museums in places to visit in Malacca.

7. Skyscape @ Menara JLand

Location: Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Entry Fee: RM 25
Timings: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM

A 37-story tower with an open-air glass-floored skywalk offering panoramic views of JB city and Singapore.

8. Hutan Bandar Johor Bahru

Location: Jalan Tasek Utara
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

A lush city forest park ideal for picnics, jogging, and nature walks. Comparable to green retreats in the best places to visit in Malaysia in August when the weather is mild.

Johor Bahru: What To Know Before You Go!

How to get to Johor Bahru

• From Singapore: Cross via the Causeway or Second Link by car, bus, or train.

• By Air: Fly to Senai International Airport from other famous cities in Malaysia like Penang or Kuala Lumpur.

Getting Around Johor Bahru

• Grab works seamlessly here for ride-hailing.

• Public buses and taxis are widely available.

• Car rentals for exploring beyond JB.

Best Time to Visit Johor Bahru

• Best months: February to October for dry weather.

• Avoid: November–January due to heavier rain.

• Festivals: Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Johor Arts Festival.

Where to Stay in Johor Bahru

• Budget: Backpacker hostels in Jalan Wong Ah Fook.

• Mid-range: City hotels near JB Sentral.

• Luxury: Resorts near Danga Bay.

Book your stay easily with Agoda discounts from Circles.Life.

Tips For Smooth Trip

• Use a local SIM or Circles.Life eSIM for cheap data.

• Carry a power bank for long sightseeing days.

• Cash is widely used, but e-wallets like GrabPay are accepted.

• Download Klook, Grab, and Google Maps before you go.

Travel Smart – Get Roaming Plans Before Travel!

Many travelers underestimate roaming costs. Having a Circles.Life Borderless Plan ensures you’re always connected for maps, translation apps, and social media updates.

FAQ About Visiting Johor Bahru, Malaysia

How can I stay connected in Johor Bahru without high roaming fees?
You can stay connected by getting a Circles.Life Borderless Plan before your trip for the best rates in places to visit in Johor Bahru.

Is Johor Bahru safe for tourists?
Yes, Johor Bahru is generally safe, similar to other best places to visit in Malaysia, but always practice standard safety precautions.

How many days should I spend in Johor Bahru?
Two to three days are enough to cover the top places to visit in Johor Bahru and nearby areas.

Can I use Grab or other ride apps in Johor Bahru?
Yes, Grab is widely available in places to visit in Johor Bahru.

Do I need cash or is e-wallet accepted widely?
Both cash and e-wallets are accepted in places to visit in Johor Bahru.

Is English commonly spoken?
Yes, English is widely spoken in places to visit in Johor Bahru, especially in tourist areas.