Best Hotels in Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Johor Bahru is the capital city of Johor in southern Peninsular Malaysia, adjacent to the border with Singapore. The city is a popular destination for both local and international tourists. Family attractions include Legoland Malaysia, Game On Theme Park, Toppen Shopping Center, Kidz Republic Indoor Theme Park, and many more. For those seeking a vibrant shopping experience, several malls, such as Johor Bahru City Square, Paradigm Mall, KSL City Mall are scattered throughout the city. Like the rest of Malaysia, Johor Bahru is home to cultural diversity reflected in various historical sites. If you are planning a trip to Johor Bahru and thinking about where to stay, how to get around, the weather, here are several info along with the travel tips to Johor Bahru:

Where to stay in Johor Bahru?

Since the richness of Johor Bahru cannot be done overnight, you have to prepare a pleasant place to stay, so you will have time to navigate the city on other days. Here are several best hotels, along with their rates and amenities, for you:

Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru

Situated in Menara Tiga Serangkai, Capri by Fraser is a four-star hotel providing a variety of room types, ranging from RM 400 up to 700 per-night. The room is equipped with modern and sufficient facilities, while restaurants, coffee shops, outdoor pool; including children pool, steam room, and a fitness center are for the public. Near the hotel, several attractions, such as Angry Bird Theme Park, Johor Bahru City Square, and Johor Old Chinese Temple are worth visiting to get a fulfilling staycation and vacation at the same time.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru

Another reputable four-star hotel brand in the city center is DoubleTree by Hilton. Offering comfortable rooms varying from about RM 400 to 5000/night, a range of amenities, like beach and pool sun loungers, poolside bar, and a fitness center are available within the hotel. Like the previous, this hotel is near some tourist attractions, yet make sure to check-in from 3pm and check-out before 12pm to get the entire intimacy with the city’s atmosphere.

Thistle Johor Bahru

Situated near the Johor Bahru city center, you will get yourself exclusive facilities and services inside the stylish design of Thistle Johor Bahru. This 5-star hotel offers 9 room types; some of which head to the views of the Straits of Johor and an eye-catching city skyline. The hotel’s restaurants present a huge range of cuisine, both local and international, composed in an open-restaurant with a poolside view. The nearest theme park from the hotel is Legoland Malaysia where you can take your kids to.

Fives Hotel Johor Bahru City Center

If you are a frequent shopper, consider Fives Hotel as a place to stay during your trip, since Johor Bahru City Square and Komtar JBCC are only a stone’s throw from the hotel. You will also be pleased by an avant-garde exterior and interior of the building, a fitness center, and 24-hour receptionist. Besides shopping areas, the hotel is also near Angry Bird Theme Park and a historical site Johor Old Chinese Temple. Book your rooms now at RM 200-1500, and do not forget to check-in from 3pm and check-out before 12pm.

KSL Hotel and Resort Johor Bahru

If you prefer resort to hotel, KSL will be the best choice to make. With 11 types of rooms; one of which is completed with a private pool, the resort also offers a game room, billiard, table tennis, children play area, and a waterpark access (with surcharge). A temple near KSL, Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam, can be a historical attraction you should contemplate during the stay. Angry Bird Theme Park and Legoland are also suitable for your kids to play around.

How to get around Johor Bahru by public transportations?

There are some accessible options for getting around Johor Bahru. The list of public transportations below will get you informed of how to navigate the city:

Buses

Johor Bahru has an extensive bus network operated by various companies. The main bus terminal is Larkin Sentral, from where buses connect to different parts of the city and beyond.

Taxis

You can find taxis at designated taxi stands or hail one on the street. Ride-hailing services are also popular in the area.

Trains

The main railway station in Johor Bahru is JB Sentral. It serves KTM Komuter train service connecting Johor Bahru to other cities in Malaysia.

BRT (Bus Rapid Transit)

The Iskandar Malaysia Bus Rapid Transit (IMBRT) system is a planned BRT system aiming to provide efficient public transportation in the Iskandar Malaysia region, including Johor Bahru. Please check for updates on the status and routes of the BRT system.

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)

There were plans for an MRT system connecting Johor Bahru to Singapore, known as the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS Link). Please check for the latest developments on this project.

What is the weather like in Johor Bahru?

As other cities and regions in Malaysia, Johor Bahru also experiences tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The climate is affected by the monsoon seasons: northeast (November to March) where the city undergoes more rainfall, including the heavy one; and southeast (May to September) when the weather may be drier with some rainfall. It is always important to note that the actual weather can vary, so it is better for you to check the local weather services for the most accurate weather info, including current conditions, forecasts, and any weather advisories.

What are travel tips to Johor Bahru?

If you are planning a trip to Johor Bahru, here are several tips to help you make the most of your trip: check visa requirements, ensure you have the local currency, pack weather-appropriate clothes, familiarize yourself with local transportations, learn few basic Malay phrases, respect the local customs and traditions, explore local cuisines, attractions, and activities; ensure you have a local SIM card or an international roaming plan to stay connected during the trip, and consider purchasing travel insurances to cover unexpected events.

Always check for the latest travel advisories and stay informed about any developments that may affect your travel plans. Additionally, consult with official tourism websites or local guides for the most up-to-date information. If you are ready, settle your lodging arrangements with Traveloka to travel well and savor the experiences in Johor Bahru.