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Top 6 way to consider

Bored of the same old routine and looking for an exhilarating escape?

Why stick to the usual Singaporean hangouts when Johor Bahru, just across the causeway, offers a whirlwind of excitement?

JB is bursting with dynamic attractions, scrumptious food, and unbeatable shopping deals, thanks to the favorable exchange rate.

Imagine this: a day packed with thrilling activities, delicious meals, and shopping sprees that don’t break the bank.

From lively markets to stunning sights, JB has it all—and it’s just a short trip away!

Ready to turn your ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure?

Check out these ways to travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru and get ready for a day filled with fun, flavor, and fantastic finds.

Whether you’re craving new experiences or just a change of pace, JB is your perfect getaway!

(Note: All prices and schedules mentioned below are set by the respective transport operators and may change at any time.)

Private Taxi

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Cost: Approximately SGD100

Taking a private taxi from Singapore to Johor Bahru is one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to make the trip. This option is particularly advantageous for families, groups, or travelers with a lot of luggage.

A private taxi service picks you up from your location in Singapore and drops you off directly at your destination in JB, bypassing the need to alight at immigration checkpoints, which can be a significant time-saver.

Advantages: 

  • Comfort and Convenience: The primary benefit of using a private taxi is the level of comfort and convenience it provides. You don’t have to worry about navigating public transportation systems or dealing with heavy luggage. The taxi will pick you up from your doorstep and drop you off at your destination in JB.
  • Direct Service: Unlike buses or trains, private taxis provide a direct service from your location in Singapore to your destination in JB. This eliminates the need for transfers and reduces the overall travel time.
  • Privacy: Private taxis offer a level of privacy that is not available with other forms of public transport. This can be particularly beneficial for business travelers who may need to make calls or work during the journey.
  • Flexibility: You have the flexibility to choose your departure time and can make stops along the way if needed. This is particularly useful for families with young children or travelers who want to visit multiple destinations.

Considerations:

  • Cost: The main disadvantage of using a private taxi is the cost. At approximately SGD 100, it is more expensive than other forms of transportation. However, when traveling in a group, the cost can be shared, making it more economical.
  • Booking: It’s advisable to book your taxi in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability. Many services allow you to book online or via phone, making the process straightforward.

Tips:

  • Choose Reputable Services: Make sure to choose a reputable taxi service to ensure safety and reliability. Services like Singmal Smooth Transport have good reviews and are known for their professional drivers and well-maintained vehicles​.
  • Immigration Checks: Although you do not need to alight from the vehicle, you will still need to clear immigration at both the Singapore and Malaysia checkpoints. Ensure all passengers have their passports ready and that any necessary visas are obtained in advance.

 

Choice Of Private Taxi Services

Here are some reputable private taxi services that operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru:

Service Provider Vehicle Option Cost (SGD) Booking Link Duration (Approx) Flexibility
SGJBTaxi88 Toyota Innova, Alphard/Vellfire, Hyundai Starex 80-120 SGJBTaxi88 ~60 Mins 24/7 Service, On-Time Carrying, Affordable Prices
SGMYTRIPS Toyota Alphard, Vellfire 140+ SGMYTRIPS ~60 Mins Customizable Trips, 24/7 Availability
GOISLANDS Various MPVs 140+ GOISLANDS ~60 Mins Flexible Pick-Up, 24/7 Service
NusaTransport Toyota Innova, Alphard/Vellfire, Hyundai Starex 140-200 NusaTransport ~60 Mins Flexible Routes, Daily Service
Asia Car Service Mercedes E-Class, S-Class 140+ Asia Car Service ~60 Mins Door-To-Door, Luxury Options, 24/7 Service
SG To JB Taxi Various MPVs 140+ SG To JB Taxi ~60 Mins Flexible Routes, Daily Service
SGTaxiToJB Various MPVs 140-450 SGTaxiToJB ~60 Mins Customizable Trips, 24/7 Availability
TransportToJB Toyota Innova, Alphard/Vellfire, Hyundai Starex 140+ TransportToJB ~60 Mins Multiple Routes, Daily Service
MyTravelLane Various MPVs 150+ MyTravelLane ~60 Mins Customizable Trips, 24/7 Availability
SGCab Various MPVs 150+ SGCab ~60 Mins Door-To-Door, Luxury Options, 24/7 Service
Maxi Cab Singapore Various MPVs 150+ Maxi Cab Singapore ~60 Mins Flexible Routes, Daily Service
JB2SG Various MPVs 150+ JB2SG ~60 Mins Customizable Trips, 24/7 Availability
SGMYTaxi Various MPVs 160+ SGMYTaxi ~60 Mins Flexible Pick-Up, 24/7 Service
EaziRide Various MPVs 160+ EaziRide ~60 Mins Door-To-Door, Luxury Options, 24/7 Service
Taxi Johor Various MPVs 160+ Taxi Johor ~60 Mins Customizable Trips, 24/7 Availability
SGMY Private Car Services Various MPVs 160+ SGMY Private Car Services ~60 Mins Flexible Routes, Daily Service

Choice Of Private Taxi Services:

  • Cheapest Rates: Starting at SGD 80, making it the most affordable option among all providers.
  • 24/7 Availability: You can book a ride at any time of the day or night.
  • Comfort and Safety: Experienced local drivers ensure a smooth and safe journey.
  • On-Time Service: Reliable punctuality guarantees timely pickups and drop-offs.
  • Professional Service: High standards of customer service for a hassle-free experience.

Self-Driving

Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Cost: Variable (fuel,tolls, VEP)

Self-driving from Singapore to Johor Bahru offers the ultimate flexibility and freedom, making it a popular choice for those who prefer to travel at their own pace. This option allows you to explore JB and its surroundings without being tied to public transport schedules.

Advantages: 

  • Flexibility: Self-driving gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make spontaneous stops along the way. This is particularly beneficial for sightseeing or visiting multiple destinations in JB.
  • Convenience: Having your own vehicle means you can carry as much luggage as you need without worrying about the restrictions of public transport.
  • Cost-Effective for Groups: If you’re traveling with family or friends, self-driving can be cost-effective, as you can share the expenses for fuel and tolls.

Considerations:

  • Travel Time: The journey may take longer than other modes of transport due to traffic congestion and the time required for immigration checks. It’s best to avoid peak travel times to minimise delays.
  • Comfort: Buses can be crowded, especially during peak hours. While most buses are air-conditioned, the level of comfort may not be as high as other forms of transport.
  • Immigration Checks: Passengers need to alight from the bus at both the Singapore and Malaysian immigration checkpoints, which can add to the travel time.

Tips:

  • Travel Off-Peak: To avoid long waits and crowded buses, try to travel during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays.
  • Prepare for Immigration: Have your passport and any necessary visas ready to speed up the immigration process. Be prepared to queue and re-board the bus after clearing immigration.
  • Choose Reliable Operators: Opt for well-known bus operators like Causeway Link or SBS Transit, which have a good track record for reliability and safety.

Bus

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Cost: SGD 2 to 5

Traveling by bus from Singapore to Johor Bahru is one of the most economical options, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Buses run frequently and offer a reliable way to cross the border, although it can be time-consuming due to traffic and immigration checks.

Advantages: 

  • Affordability: The main advantage of traveling by bus is the cost. Bus fares range from SGD 2 to 5, making it the cheapest way to travel between Singapore and JB.
  • Frequency: There are numerous bus services operating on this route, including Causeway Link, SBS Transit, and Transtar, ensuring you have plenty of options throughout the day.
  • Accessibility: Buses are easily accessible from various locations in Singapore, including major MRT stations like Kranji, Woodlands, and Jurong East.

Considerations:

  • Traffic: One of the main challenges of self-driving is dealing with traffic, especially during peak hours at the border crossings. The Woodlands Checkpoint and Tuas Checkpoint can be particularly congested during weekends and public holidays.
  • VEP and Tolls: Singaporean vehicles entering Malaysia must register for a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP). The VEP costs RM 10 and is valid for five years. You’ll also need a Touch ‘n Go card to pay for tolls in Malaysia​ (SGMYVIP Transport)​.
  • Navigation: While modern GPS systems and apps like Google Maps make navigation easier, it’s still important to familiarize yourself with the route and potential road conditions.

Tips:

  • Plan Your Route: Plan your route in advance and check traffic conditions to avoid congestion. The Tuas Checkpoint is often less busy than the Woodlands Checkpoint.
  • Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before embarking on the trip. Check the oil, coolant, tire pressure, and fuel levels. It’s also wise to carry an emergency kit.
  • Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your driving license, car registration, insurance papers, and VEP.

Here’s a comprehensive table of 20 bus operators that travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru.

The table includes details about their routes, bus types, duration, costs, schedules, and booking methods.

Operator From Station To Station Bus Type & Brand Duration (Approx) Cost (SGD) Schedule & Timetable Booking Method
Transtar Travel Golden Mile Complex Johor Bahru Luxury COach 1 Hour 16.00 0600 to 1800 Redbus
Causeway Link Queen Street Terminal Larkin Terminal Express Bus 1.5 hours 3 Every 15 minutes Easybook
SBS Transit Woodlands Checkpoint Johor Bahru City Bus 1 hour 2 Every 20 minutes SBS Transit Website
FirstCoach Novena Square Bandar Seri Alam Executive Coach 1.5 hours 10 8:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 8:00 PM FirstCoach
Starmart Express Lavender MRT Station Larkin Terminal Super VIP Coach 1.5 hours 15 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM Starmart
KKKL Express Boon Lay Shopping Centre Johor Bahru VIP Coach 1 hour 14 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM KKKL
Transtar Cross Border TS6 Tuas Link Stn Grand Paragon Hotel Cross Border Bus 1.5 hours 10.53 8:00 AM to 10:34 PM RedBus
Maju Express Yishun Bus Interchange Larkin Terminal Express Bus 1.5 hours 12 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Easybook
Superior Coach HarbourFront Centre Johor Bahru Luxury Coach 1 hour 15 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM Superior Coach
City Express Bugis MRT Station Larkin Terminal VIP Coach 1.5 hours 13 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM City Express
Handal Indah Changi Airport Larkin Terminal Express Bus 2 hours 9 Every hour Easybook
Five Stars Travel Beach Road KSL Resort Executive Coach 1.5 hours 14 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM Five Stars
Grassland Express Woodlands MRT Station Johor Bahru Luxury Coach 1 hour 15 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM Grassland
Yellow Bus Jurong East Bus Interchange Larkin Terminal Express Bus 1.5 hours 10 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM Easybook
Bas Malaysia Farrer Park MRT Station Larkin Terminal VIP Coach 1.5 hours 12 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM Bas Malaysia
Johor Bahru Express Clementi MRT Station Larkin Terminal Express Bus 1.5 hours 10 Every 30 minutes Easybook
TS Travel Boon Lay MRT Station Johor Bahru Luxury Coach 1 hour 16 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM TS Travel
Yoyo Bus Bukit Panjang MRT Station Larkin Terminal Express Bus 1.5 hours 9 Every hour Easybook
Eltabina Jaya Kranji MRT Station Larkin Terminal VIP Coach 1 hour 12 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM Easybook
707 Inc Changi Airport Johor Bahru Executive Coach 1.5 hours 15 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM 707 Inc

Comparison of Bus Operators:

  • Cost: The lowest fare is offered by Causeway Link at SGD 3.00, while the highest fare is SGD 16.00 by Transtar Travel.
  • Duration: Most buses take about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Johor Bahru.
  • Frequency: SBS Transit and Causeway Link offer high-frequency departures every 15-20 minutes. Others like FirstCoach and Starmart, have fewer but regular schedules.
  • Comfort: Luxury and VIP coaches such as those operated by Transtar Travel, Starmart Express, and KKKL Express offer greater comfort compared to city or express buses.
  • Convenience: Operators like Transtar Cross Border offer multiple boarding and dropping points which can be more convenient for travelers depending on their location.

How to Book

For booking, you can use platforms like RedBus, Easybook, or the individual operator’s websites. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to ensure seat availability and potentially secure lower fares.

This comprehensive information should help you choose the best bus operator for your trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru.

Train – KTM Shuttle Tebrau

Duration: 5 minutes (train ride) + immigration checks
Cost: SGD 5

The KTM Shuttle Tebrau is the fastest way to travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize speed and efficiency.

This train service runs between Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore and JB Sentral in Johor Bahru.

Advantages: 

  • Speed: The train ride itself takes only about 5 minutes, making it the quickest option for crossing the border.
  • Direct Service: The train provides a direct route, avoiding the heavy traffic that can often delay other forms of transport.
  • Convenience: Immigration checks for both Singapore and Malaysia are conducted before boarding and after alighting, streamlining the process.

Considerations:

  • Limited Tickets: Tickets for the KTM Shuttle Tebrau sell out quickly, especially during peak travel times. It’s essential to book your tickets well in advance.
  • Fixed Schedule: The train operates on a fixed schedule with a limited number of trips per day. This requires careful planning to ensure you catch your train.
  • Immigration Checks: While the train ride is quick, you still need to allow time for immigration checks at both ends, which can add to the overall travel time.
  •  

Tips:

  • Book Early: Due to the high demand for tickets, it’s advisable to book your train tickets as early as possible. Tickets can be purchased online through the KTM website or at the train stations.
  • Arrive Early: Arrive at the Woodlands Train Checkpoint at least 30 minutes before departure to complete immigration checks and board the train on time.
  • Travel Light: Since you’ll be handling your luggage during immigration checks, it’s best to travel light to make the process smoother.

Schedule and Timetable:

Here’s a general outline of the Shuttle Tebrau’s schedule. Note that schedules are subject to change, so it’s best to check the latest timetable on the KTM website or other booking platforms.

Departure Time (SG) Arrival Time (MY) Departure Time (MY) Arrival Time (SG)
8:30 AM 8:35 AM 7:00 AM 7:05 AM
9:30 AM 9:35 AM 8:00 AM 8:05 AM
11:30 AM 11:35 AM 9:00 AM 9:05 AM
2:30 PM 2:35 PM 10:00 AM 10:05 AM
4:30 PM 4:35 PM 11:00 AM 11:05 AM
6:30 PM 6:35 PM 12:00 PM 12:05 PM
8:30 PM 8:35 PM 1:00 PM 1:05 PM
10:30 PM 10:35 PM 2:00 PM 2:05 PM

*Schedules may vary on weekends and public holidays.

Booking Information:

  1. KTM Website: Tickets can be purchased directly from the KTM website (KTM).
  2. Easybook: This platform offers easy online booking (Easybook).
  3. On-Site: Tickets can also be bought at the respective train stations, though it’s advisable to book in advance due to high demand.

Ferry (to Desaru)

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Cost: SGD 50+

Taking a ferry from Singapore to Desaru in Johor offers a scenic and relaxing travel experience, making it a great option for those looking to avoid road traffic and enjoy a leisurely journey. The ferry departs from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrives at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal or Tanjung Pengelih Terminal in Johor.

Advantages: 

  • Scenic Journey: The ferry ride provides beautiful views of the coastline, making it a pleasant and relaxing way to travel.
  • Avoids Road Traffic: By traveling by sea, you avoid the traffic congestion often encountered at the land border crossings.
  • Convenient for Desaru: This option is particularly convenient if your destination is Desaru, known for its beaches and resorts.

Considerations:

  • Cost: Ferry tickets are more expensive compared to other modes of transport, with prices starting around SGD 50.
  • Limited Schedule: Ferries operate on a fixed schedule with fewer trips compared to buses or trains. Planning ahead is essential to ensure you catch the ferry.
  • Travel Time: While the ferry ride itself is about 1.5 to 2 hours, you need to factor in additional time for check-in and boarding.

Tips:

  • Book in Advance: Due to the limited number of daily trips, it’s advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased online through ferry operators’ websites.
  • Check Weather Conditions: Ferry services can be affected by weather conditions. Check the weather forecast and any travel advisories before your trip.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along essentials such as snacks, water, and entertainment to make your ferry ride more comfortable.

Charter Services

Duration: Typically takes between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (depends on traffic conditions and the specific pick-up and drop-off points.)
Cost: The cost ranges from SGD 90 to SGD 150 per trip, depending on the vehicle type and service provider.

Charter services offer a personalised and flexible way to travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru.

These services can be tailored to meet the needs of different groups, whether it’s a family trip, a corporate outing, or a group of friends traveling together.

Advantages:

  • Flexibility: Charter services provide the flexibility to choose your departure time and make stops along the way. This is particularly useful for sightseeing or if you have specific destinations in mind.
  • Comfort: traveling in a chartered vehicle offers a high level of comfort, with options ranging from standard vans to luxury coaches.
  • Door-to-Door Service: Charter services provide door-to-door pick-up and drop-off, eliminating the need for transfers and making the journey seamless.

Considerations:

  • Choose a Reputable Provider: Research and choose a reputable charter service provider to ensure safety and reliability. Look for providers with positive reviews and a good track record.
  • Clarify Details: Ensure all details, such as pick-up time, location, and any special requests, are clearly communicated to the service provider.
  • Check Inclusions: Confirm what is included in the cost, such as tolls, fuel, and driver fees, to avoid any unexpected charges.

In summary, charter services provide a flexible, comfortable, and convenient way to travel from Singapore to JB. They are particularly beneficial for groups, families, and corporate travellers who value a personalized travel experience.

Popular Charter Service Providers:

 

Service Provider Vehicle Option Cost (SGD) Booking Link Duration (Approx) Flexibility
SGJBTaxi88 MPV, Private Car From 80 SGJBTaxi88 1-2 hours Flexible booking, direct door-to-door service
SG2MYTransport Alphard Anh30, Various Options From 180 SG2MYTransport 1-2 hours Hourly, daily, and custom packages
SG Taxi To JB Toyota Innova, Alphard From 90 SG Taxi To JB 1-2 hours Various packages including round trips
GoIslands Toyota Innova, Alphard, Starex From 150 GoIslands 1-2 hours Flexible booking, additional services like tours
MaxiCab Maxi Cab From 160 MaxiCab 1-2 hours Multiple seating options, luxury vehicles
MPV Transport MPV, Alphard From 180 MPV Transport 1-2 hours Customizable packages, round trips
JB2SG Toyota Alphard, Vellfire From 160 JB2SG 1-2 hours Package deals, door-to-door service
RideNow Toyota Innova, Alphard From 170 RideNow 1-2 hours Various pick-up points, customizable itineraries
SGMYTAXI Toyota Innova, Vellfire From 180 SGMYTAXI 1-2 hours Flexible booking options, round trip discounts
Transtar Travel Private Car, Alphard From 190 Transtar Travel 1-2 hours Premium vehicles, VIP service