The best way to get from Johor Bahru to Singapore for traveling families

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For families who are travelling long-term, Malaysia is a popular destination. It provides value for money food, accommodation and attractions. Affordable destinations are paramount for families travelling long-term.

Johor Bahru is located on the southern end of the Malay Peninsula, a gateway to Singapore. The second largest city in Malaysia, Johor Bahru, is a lively mix of history, culture, and modernity, making it an essential destination for families before they cross into the more expensive Singapore.

When you travel from Johor Bahru to Singapore you will experience two modern cities

Johor Bahru is well connected to Kuala Lumpur and cities in Malaysia but is the primary transport route for families travelling by bus from Johor Bahru to Singapore.

What can you see in JB for families before you leave for Singapore?

Johor Bahru, also known as JB, is a city in Malaysia. It’s the central city in Johor state. JB is special because it’s right next to Singapore, which makes it essential for business and travel. But JB isn’t just about work!

life size models made with lego at lego land malaysia
Miniature models made of Lego bricks in Legoland, Johor, Malaysia.

There are fun things to do in Joho Bahru, too. You can visit cool theme parks, go shopping, see old buildings, and try tasty food. When you visit Johor Bahru, you’ll find many things to do and see.

You can explore the busy city streets or relax on the peaceful beaches of Danga Bay. Check out the lively markets like Pasar Karat and Pasar Malam for local food and unique souvenirs.

Learn about the city’s history by visiting places like Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque and Istana Besar, or have fun at theme parks like Legoland Malaysia and The Mini Cuso Trick Art Gallery.

JB is a great mix of work and play! Families and teenagers visiting Johor Bahru for a while will have plenty of things to enjoy in JB’s different attractions.

Getting from Johor Bahru to Singapore

The distance from Johor Bahru to Singapore is just 24 kilometres. Around 300,000 people travel between the cities daily. While trains, car trips, and ride-share are options, most travellers prefer buses. The Johor Bahru to Singapore bus is comfy and not too expensive.

a bus crossing the border from Malaysia into Singapore
A bus from Malaysia is about to cross the bridge into Singapore.

Travel time from Johor Bahru Sentral to Singapore and Singapore to Johor Bahru is just one hour. There are different bus options, from basic ones to fancy coaches. So, hop on a bus and explore both cities!

In 2026, the Johor Bahru Singapore Rapid Transit system rail link will connect Malaysia’s second-largest city, Johor Bahru, with Woodlands, Singapore. Once open, it will run from the northern Woodlands North station to Bukit Chagar station in Johor. The Johor Bahru Singapore RTS link journey is slated to take 5 minutes.

There will be shared Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine facilities at the Malaysian and Singaporean termini, which is expected to ease traffic congestion between the two countries.

Practical tips to travel between Johor Bahru and Singapore by bus

Before you begin the journey to Singapore from Johor Bahru, there are a few things you will need to do for yourself and your kids. Make sure to bring your passport when you travel cross-border between the two countries of Singapore and Malaysia.

  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months to cross from Johor Bahru to Singapore.
  • Complete your SG arrival card within three days before arriving at the checkpoints in Singapore. This card includes your personal information and health declaration.

Things to do in Singapore that won’t cost families a fortune

Singapore will be much more expensive for families travelling in Asia. You must make well-researched decisions on what attractions are worth seeing and what are not. Head to Gardens by the Bay and watch a free light show at night.

a m um and daughter exploring singapore with the singapore ferris wheel in the background
A mum and Daughter exploring Singapore!

Take the affordable Sentosa Express train to this fun island. Play at accessible beaches, check out Fort Siloso, and catch the Wings of Time show (tickets are budget-friendly). Dive into different cultures! Walk through colourful streets, visit temples, and try tasty and cheap local food.

Food lovers can head to Hawker Centers and taste dishes like chicken rice, Char Kway Teow, and Hainanese curry rice. The prices are reasonable, and the flavours are unique. Take a photo of the famous Merlion statue and the beautiful Marina Bay view. It’s a must-see and completely free!

Remember, Singapore can be exciting and affordable for families. Have a great time exploring without spending too much money!

Transport from Johor to Singapore is straightforward. Kids look out the window as they cross the Causeway, entering a new country, while parents chat with other travellers, sharing tips and stories. As the transportation ends, get ready to explore the sights of Singapore.

We hope this article on Wyld Family Travel helps you plan your travel to Malaysia and Singapore.


More travel inspiration for your trip to S.E Asia


Rebecca Wyld

bec.wyld@wyldfamilytravel.com

Content Creator/SEO Editor

Co-founder and SEO editor here at Wyld Family Travel. Bec has travelled to over 45 countries across 3 continents and is a journey with kids advocate. When Bec is not planning travel, she creates content for our family travel blog or does local community service work. You can find all of Bec’s detailed travel guides here on Wyld Family Travel and on other popular websites such as Lonely Planet.