Johor Bahru guide: Best things to do, food, shops, and hotels

by Sufyan • 07 Jun 2023

Malaysia, oh how we adore thee. Whether it's a road trip upstate or a flight to Kuala Lumpur, we love returning to the country repeatedly. But for an easy day trip or somewhere nearby to spend the long weekend, we’re all for Johor Bahru. What's not to like? Think about all the excellent attractions to explore, shop to check out and, of course, the food! Here's our list of things to do, places to eat and shop, and the best hotels in Johor Bahru.

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.Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia

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.Istana Besar, 107, Jalan Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.Tufting Nuts, 40-01, Jln Austin Heights 3/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.Desaru Coast, Jalan Desaru Coast, Desaru, 81300 Bandar Penawar, Johor, 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.Legoland Malaysia, 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia

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.Tebrau Food Truck Park, Jln Harmonium 24/1, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

When it comes to gastronomical adventures, this bustling neighbourhood is the perfect place to be in. You’ll be spoilt for choice here. Craving caffeine? Atlas Coffee Embassy is a highly raved about coffeehouse with a gorgeous interior by a Japanese designer. If you have space in your stomach, we recommend hitting up Bean Jr. Soya beancurd with a side of popping pearl toppings? Yes, please!Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

You should explore this hidden gem if you can't tear yourself from cafe-hopping. Eco Spring Labs is a haven of Instagrammable cafes, gardens, and shophouses. You’ll have a field day just being here. Soil is a cottage-style cafe with gorgeous foliage covering its facade. Oh, and the offerings are not too bad either. Pop by Morihana Pastry if you’re a fan of pies and want more cakes.Eco Spring Labs, 1, Jalan Ekoflora Utama, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.Johor Premium Outlets, Jalan Premium Outlets, Indahpura, 81000 Kulaijaya, Johor Darul Takzim, Johor, Malaysia

It's no secret that 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!Maslee Express, Lot CD 01, B5, Johor Street Market, Pusat Bandar Tampoi, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Are you bored of City Square Mall and Komtar? When you’ve cleared immigration, bypass those malls and head straight for Mid Valley South Key. 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.Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.Pasar Karat, Jalan Segget, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Tebing Bandar Dato’ Onn, Jln Dato’ Onn Utama, Nasa City, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia

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's eco-friendly too.KSL Hot Spring Resort, 31, Jalan Kangkar Tebrau, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.St Giles Southkey, Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.Midori Concept Hotel, 57, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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.DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru, 12, Jalan Ngee Heng, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Well, what are you waiting for? It's time to cross the Causeway and visit Johor Bahru!