Johor Bahru: The Ultimate 3-Day Adventure on a Budget!

Discover the charms of Johor Bahru without breaking the bank.

14 October 2023

Johor Bahru, Malaysia offers a fantastic destination for budget travelers. With affordable accommodations and a reasonable cost of living, you can explore attractions like the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and Dataran Bandaraya Johor Bahru within your budget. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local street food and explore the vibrant shopping scene for a fulfilling trip without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Unveiling Johor Bahru Delights

  • Check into the funky and budget-friendly J Street Hotel in the heart of Johor Bahru.
  • Kickstart your day with a flavorful roti canai breakfast at the legendary Selera Johor, where locals gather for their morning fix.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by exploring the lively pasar malam (night market) at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee – feast on delicious street food and pick up quirky souvenirs.
  • Take a stroll along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, a street filled with charming heritage buildings, trendy cafes, and colorful street art.
  • Dine at Restoran Todak, a popular seafood spot where you can savor fresh catch with your toes dipping into the flowing seawater beneath the restaurant.
  • End the day with a leisurely sunset walk along the beautiful Danga Bay waterfront, marveling at the stunning views of the city skyline.
Day 2

Nature's Symphony in Johor Bahru

  • Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at the cozy Roost Coffee & Culture housed in a heritage building.
  • Head to Johor Bahru's hidden gem, Hutan Bandar Recreation Park, where you can escape the city buzz and revel in nature's embrace.
  • Enjoy a peaceful boat ride in the park's tranquil lake, surrounded by lush greenery and chirping birds.
  • Pay a visit to the stunning Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple, a unique temple adorned with colorful glass mosaics that reflect an ethereal glow when sunlight pours in.
  • Refuel with a scrumptious meal at Bev C Cafeteria, a local favorite serving mouthwatering fusion dishes at pocket-friendly prices.
  • Soak in the buzzing atmosphere of Taman Pelangi, known for its quirky cafes and vibrant street art – perfect for an Instagram-worthy stroll.
Day 3

Thrill-seeking Adventures in Johor Bahru

  • Begin your day with a quick breakfast at Hiap Joo Bakery, a nostalgic spot famous for their freshly baked banana cakes.
  • Embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure at Legoland Malaysia Resort, a must-visit for theme park enthusiasts and families seeking a thrilling day out.
  • Indulge in a delectable lunch at Restoran ZZ Sup Tulang, serving the iconic Johorean dish – mammoth portions of braised mutton bones drenched in flavorful gravy.
  • Explore the striking Istana Bukit Serene, the official residence of the Sultan of Johor, and marvel at its grandeur and architectural beauty.
  • Treat yourself to a unique dining experience at Johor Bahru's latest foodie hotspot, The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen, where you can devour creative dishes within a stylish, eclectic ambiance.
  • End the day with a leisurely stroll at Dataran Bandaraya, a bustling square where you can witness Johor Bahru's vibrant nightlife come alive.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Johor Bahru, Malaysia by plane is to fly to Senai International Airport (JHB) which is located approximately 32 kilometers northwestern of Johor Bahru city center. There are numerous international and domestic flights that operate to and from Senai International Airport, making it a convenient choice for air travel.

Car

To reach Johor Bahru, Malaysia by car, you can drive via the North-South Expressway. If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, take the North-South Expressway (NSE) southbound and exit at Johor Bahru. The journey usually takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Train

There is no direct train service to Johor Bahru, Malaysia. However, one can take a train to Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore which is located near the Johor-Singapore Causeway. From there, you can cross the Causeway by foot and take a bus or taxi to Johor Bahru city center.

Boat

There is no direct boat service to Johor Bahru, Malaysia. However, if you are coming from Indonesia, you can take a ferry from various ports such as Batam or Bintan to the Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal in Johor Bahru. From there, you can easily access the city center by taxi or local buses.

Bus

The best way to get to Johor Bahru, Malaysia by bus is to take a coach from various locations in Malaysia. Many bus operators provide services to Johor Bahru, with Larkin Terminal being the main bus terminal in the city. From Larkin, you can easily access different parts of Johor Bahru by local buses or taxis.

Destination

Johor Bahru

Welcome to a city where the street food is so delicious, you won't mind wearing elastic waistbands, and the traffic is so unpredictable, you'll learn to appreciate the art of spontaneous dance moves in your car.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Love in Johor Bahru: Hawkers, Pirates, and Seafood

Embark on a romantic getaway in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, where a fusion of cultural heritage and modern attractions await. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant streets of Little India, indulge in delectable street food, and shop for unique handicrafts at Central Market. Unwind by the scenic Desaru Beach, where you can soak up the sun, enjoy a romantic sunset stroll, and rejuvenate with soothing spa sessions, creating unforgettable memories as a couple.

An Epic Family Adventure in Johor Bahru!

Johor Bahru, Malaysia is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a plethora of exciting and educational activities. Visitors can explore Legoland Malaysia, a theme park where children can enjoy thrilling rides and build with Lego blocks. Families can also visit animal attractions like Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark and Johor Zoo, providing opportunities to interact with various animals while having fun in the water.

Johor Bahru: The Ultimate 3-Day Adventure on a Budget!

Johor Bahru, Malaysia offers a fantastic destination for budget travelers. With affordable accommodations and a reasonable cost of living, you can explore attractions like the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and Dataran Bandaraya Johor Bahru within your budget. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local street food and explore the vibrant shopping scene for a fulfilling trip without breaking the bank.

Johor Bahru: 4 Days of Fun, Food, and Adventure!

Johor Bahru, Malaysia, is a vibrant city filled with rich cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and exciting attractions for tourists. Explore the historical sites such as the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and Istana Bukit Serene, or indulge in a shopping spree at the massive Johor Premium Outlets. With its close proximity to Singapore, taking a day trip to experience both cities is a popular choice among tourists.