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Go Road Trippin’ At These 10 Malaysia Destinations From Singapore

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Looking to visit neighbouring Malaysia for a short getaway? Apart from hitting up the shopping malls at Johor Bahru, why not expand your radius by heading on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore! Blending vast, untouched forests and cities packed with classic architecture, Malaysia is an underrated treasure trove of culture and beauty that’ll definitely appeal to visitors of all ages. Wondering where are the best places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore? Read on for our favourite places to visit in Malaysia!

Overview of Best Road Trip Destinations in Malaysia from Singapore

Malaysia road trip from singapore: within 5 hours drive.

malaysia road trip from singapore muar

Wondering where are the fun places to visit in Malaysia? Known as Johor’s royal city, Muar easily earns a spot on our list for road trip destinations in Malaysia because of how it offers something for everyone. For those looking to try authentic Malaysian food, Muar serves a lip-smacking variety to overwhelm your taste buds! You can’t go wrong with local favourites like aromatic Otak-Otak (grilled fish cake) and creamy laksa .

muar mosque malaysia road trip from singapore

Fan of colonial architecture? As a must-see remnant of Malaysia’s colonial era, the Sultan Ibrahim Jamek remains one of the most beautiful sights to spot in Muar! Providing a serene view of the Muar River, the sky-blue mosque was built with Western and Eastern influences in mind and adopts a unique neoclassical aesthetic. Ultimately, it’s the intricate designs of the mosque’s columns and balconies that help it stand out from the rest in Malaysia!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 2 hours

malaysia road trip from singapore desaru

For those seeking an all-inclusive holiday experience, check out the Lotus Desaru Beach Resort And Spa! The wealth of facilities combined with the naturally beautiful surroundings here make the resort a highly sought after destination for families and those looking to recharge and relax. These include adrenaline-filled water sports, therapeutic body scrubs and relaxing fun at their mini waterpark . So if you’re unsure of what are the things to do in Malaysia, this is the place for you!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 1 hour 30 minutes

malaysia road trip from singapore gombak

When you’re planning your Malaysia road trip from Singapore, be sure not to miss out on this exciting destination – Gombak. It’s home to the iconic Batu Caves, one of the world’s most popular Hindu shrines and also one of the popular places to visit in Malaysia. Every year, thousands of tourists pay a visit to get a glimpse of the towering gold statue at its entrance, as well as to snap some Insta-worthy pics while braving its 272-step rainbow stairs. 

malaysia road trip from singapore sunway lagoon

That’s not all – Gombak is also a mere half-hour’s drive away from Sunway Lagoon, one of Malaysia’s biggest amusement parks, with over 80 attractions that’re split into 6 different theme parks. From dry and wet parks, to more thrilling activities like bungee jumping, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Overall, Gombak is definitely one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, and also a place worth including in your road trip itinerary from Singapore.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 3 hours 58 minutes

The Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

If you’re a fan of Little Nyonya , we understand why you’re thinking about taking a drive from Singapore to Malaysia. Malacca’s Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum is one of the many Peranakan houses that line the streets here. Home to four generations of a local family, this house has now become a museum that honours the Peranakan culture. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in this ethnic culture when you can get up close with the classic Peranakan artefacts!

Jonker Walk Night Market

Fuel up at the Jonker Walk Night Market after your visit to the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum! From Nyonya popiah and fried ice cream at the street stalls, to restaurants and cafes, no wonder it is one of the popular things to do in Malaysia! Don’t forget to pick up some quirky souvenirs along this bustling street.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 2 hours 41 minutes

Malaysia road trip from Singapore: Beyond 5 hours drive

5. kuala selangor.

Kuala Selangor malaysia road trip from singapore

Prefer quieter locations for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore? Here’s a place you should check out on your next visit to Malaysia. Located within a stone’s throw away from the nation’s capital, Kuala Selangor is one of our favourite destinations on road trips to Malaysia – abundant with natural attractions. If you’re a nature lover, Taman Alam nature reserve will be perfect for you! You can catch sightings of migratory birds and agile monkeys among staggering varieties of other flora and fauna.

Don’t forget to add Melawati Hill to your travel itinerary when researching things to do in Malaysia! The Altingburg Lighthouse set on this hill is a popular destination as it offers a beautiful view of the sea. You may even be able to catch the lighthouse in action as it’s still being used to guide vessels navigating the Straits of Malacca! Do also visit Fort Altingburg before leaving Kuala Selangor, Malaysia. You’ll be able to see the fort’s ruins, its cannons, an observatory tower built for sighting the new moon, and more!

sasaran sky mirror malaysia road trip from singapore

Fascinated by mesmerising photos of Bolivia’s world famous Uyuni Salt Flats? Take a Malaysia road trip from Singapore and visit Kuala Selangor’s Sky Mirror where you can get a similar experience at a fraction of the cost! The elusive sand bar only reveals itself during low tide, making it a secret tourist attraction that’s only accessible twice a month. Due to Sky Mirror’s endless horizon and shallow waters, the location is often visited by photography enthusiasts keen on taking the perfect Instagram-worthy shot.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 4 hours 4 minutes

Pro tip: You’ll pass Gombak, Malacca and Kuala Lumpur as you drive towards Kuala Selangor. If you don’t want to make too many pit stops, we’d suggest taking a break halfway through your journey, which will be in Malacca. You can visit Malaysia’s famous Jonker Street for some food and souvenirs!

ipoh food malaysia road trip from singapore

You can’t leave out Ipoh on a list of best places to visit in Malaysia. Known for its mouth-watering array of local cuisine, you can get ready for quality options such as their flavourful Hor Fun ( noodle strips in chicken broth ) and Ipoh white coffee ! Self-professed foodies will also adore creating their own food trail and will be spoilt for choice with options like Pusing Public Seafood Restaurant and Sin Yoon Loong.

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple & Zen Gardens

Your Malaysia road trip from Singapore isn’t complete without visiting Ipoh’s limestone cave temples. These Ipoh temples are built into the side of limestone hills, so you’ll realise that temperatures are cooler the moment you step in. The Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple & Zen Gardens is one of such temples that are popular places to visit in Malaysia. As you walk to the end of the cave temple, the other end will open out to a beautiful lake and a garden. This is where you can rent paddle boats and bicycles to tour the grounds with your companions! 

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 6 hours

Pro tip: Take a break in Kuala Lumpur as you make your way towards Ipoh. This is a midway point as you drive from Singapore. You can visit Berjaya Times Square where there are over 1,000 retail shops and 60 food outlets. Not only can you fill up on food and stock up on snacks to tide you over the remaining journey to Ipoh, you can get a massage too! 

7. Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands malaysia road trip from singapore

Don’t make Ipoh your final destination on your Malaysia road trip from Singapore! Continue driving and you’ll reach Cameron Highlands in about two hours! Named after British explorer Sir William Cameron, the location is a haven for tea fanatics — with tea terraces stretching as far as the eye can see. Although the view of the vast greenery alone is enough to warrant a visit, there are plenty of things to do once you’re there! These range from indulging in quality tea and plucking fresh strawberries to trekking through Mossy Forest and exploring Orang Asli village.

Cameron Flora Park

Driving the entire road trip from Singapore to Malaysia can be exhausting, so it’s time to reward yourself with a picnic at the Cameron Flora Park. This is one of the prettiest places to visit in Malaysia for an Insta-worthy experience as you dig into your picnic with a sea of pink flowers at the back. If you can’t get enough of flowers, head on over to the Cameron Lavender Garden. Immerse yourself in a garden of lavender flowers , hydrangeas, and more while enjoying a nice lavender ice cream!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 7 hours 34 minutes

Pro tip: Go for some Puchong Yong Tau Fu before continuing your journey towards the Cameron Highlands. The food here will be more than enough to fill you up and there’s also AEON BiG Puchong Utama nearby where you can stock up on snacks for the rest of your road trip.

malaysia road trip from singapore penang georgetown

Looking to escape the frenzy of life in the big city? As one of the furthest road trip destinations in Malaysia, Penang Island or  Pulau Pinang  stands as a bastion of old-world charm that contradicts the modern-day hustle and bustle. The combination of old and new makes visiting Penang feel like you’re stepping into a time capsule.

Everything from the preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the striking street art further emphasises this!

malaysia road trip from singapore batu ferringhi

Of course, after the hawker delights and cultural immersion within the city, you’ll naturally want to find a place to wind down and relax. What better way to do it than on one of Penang’s beaches? They’re must-visit spots when going on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore, especially the ones that line the coastal area, Batu Ferringhi. Simply park your cars near one of the beaches or beach resorts, and make your way to the sandy shores on foot – then take a seat on the warm sand and enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever set your eyes on. After sundown, you can frequent the night markets likened to our local pasar malams .

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 8 hours 15 minutes

Pro tip: For foodies who travelled all the way down to Penang for the famous Siam Road Char Kuey Teow, he’s open from 3pm till he sells out, and is closed on Mondays – try queuing off peak hours!

air terjun plangi malaysia road trip from singapore

Ever spotted a double rainbow? As one of the most popular things to do in Malaysia, you have to check out the one at Sungai Lembing’s Rainbow Waterfall in Kuantan! While the journey for this road trip destination in Malaysia can seem tedious with the rough drive across rocky terrain and trekking past slippery rocks, the view is definitely worth it. Reach the premises before 10am and you’ll spot a fascinating sight of a rainbow reflecting off the base of the waterfall to create a fainter bow above!

bukit panorama malaysia road trip from singapore

Looking to challenge yourself physically? Avid mountain hikers will find a huge payout when they reach Bukit Panorama’s peak! Even though it stands at just 271m tall, the summit provides a stunning vista of Sungai Lembing that comes complete with picturesque sunrise and rolling hills. Beginner climbers should use the 1000 cement steps with handrails that shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to conquer!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 5 hours

Pro tip: Take a quick stop at Kota Tinggi where you can have some McDonald’s and visit the nearby supermarket to stock up on more road trip snacks. You can also refuel your vehicle at the nearby petrol station and buy more titbits at the convenience store.

10. Kuala Terengganu

terengganu state museum malaysia road trip from singapore

As one of the furthest destinations for any Malaysia road trip from Singapore, Kuala Terengganu is a location you’ll have a blast at if you’re a museum buff! Kuala Trengganu’s State Museum holds the title of largest museum in South East Asia and occupies 27 hectares of land including galleries and open air exhibitions. You’ll learn plenty, especially with their extensive collection of Keris (ancient Javanese daggers) and royal emblems.

Kuala Terengganu

Besides being rich in history and culture, Kuala Terengganu is also fondly referred to as the Land of Turtles! Over at sites like Perhentian Turtle Sanctuary Beach and Rantau Abang, thousands of Leatherbacks and Olive Ridleys will gather to nest. While this number has dwindled considerably over the years, it’s still worth a visit during June and July on the off-chance that you spot one of these gentle giants! Soaking in the wonders of nature doesn’t end there. Stroll down the boardwalk along the harbour at Pulau Duyong and enjoy the starry night sky while watching the subtle lights from passing yachts. It’s truly a sight to behold.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 7 hours 10 minutes

Pro tip: Stop at Chaah where you can visit Village Noodle & Cafe for a quick meal. You can also head to the nearby convenience store at the Shell petrol station to refuel your vehicle and get more snacks!

Road trip essentials to pack for your drive from Singapore to Malaysia

With some of these road trips destinations in Malaysia taking up to eight hour long drives, you’ll need to ensure you’re sufficiently equipped so you won’t be travelling in discomfort. Here are some road trip travel essentials to pack for those long and drawn out rides.

1. Portable speakers

wireless speaker malaysia road trip from singapore

Every road trip needs a fun playlist to keep the gang hyped and in good spirits for the long ride! To keep you grooving, you’ll need a powerful portable speaker to amplify your songs. From ones with outstanding sound quality to battery-powered speakers that last for more than 20 hours, here’s our in-depth guide to shopping for the best wireless speakers .

2. Travel pillow

travel pillow malaysia road trip from singapore

Just like long flights, lengthy drives can be strenuous on the neck and overall posture as you’re forced to sit in an almost upright position for hours. To help remedy this, make sure to equip yourself with travel pillows . Need recommendations to meet your budget? Read our guide to the best travel pillows !

3. Portable power banks and charging cords

power bank malaysia road trip from singapore

Instead of planning to ration out your power usage for electronic devices, why not buy a portable battery? Power banks keep your devices charged and ready for use at a moment’s notice. For a buyer’s guide, check out these best power banks you can buy today! Also, be sure to stock up on phone cables so you won’t need to worry about misplacing or accidentally damaging them.

irvins malaysia road trip from singapore

No Malaysia road trip from Singapore can be completed on an empty stomach! If you’re looking to get to your destinations early, you’ll want to keep pit stops to a minimum. To keep those hunger pangs at bay, we recommend bringing along your favourite snacks and sweets . Not sure what to pack? Check out our must-try Korean snacks and Japanese snacks !

5. Personal entertainment devices

tablet use malaysia road trip from singapore

Nothing wiles away the hours like a good narrative! Whether you’re clearing your movie backlog on your tablet or playing the latest Nintendo Switch games, these devices will definitely keep you entertained while on your Malaysia road trip from Singapore. In need of titles to keep you busy? Read our guide to the best Chinese dramas and Korean dramas or check out our list of best Nintendo Switch games .

polaroid instant camera malaysia road trip from singapore

Don’t forget to bring along your camera so you can document memorable moments from your road trip! There are also instant portable cameras and film cameras that have filters that give a retro feel to your pictures. These film cameras are perfect for giving your shots of rural Malaysia a subtle vintage vibe. When you’re done with your Malaysia road trip from Singapore, go and develop your film so you can collate all these pictures into a photo album and memorialise your trip! 

7. Backpacks and travel document holders

travel backpack malaysia road trip from singapore

You’ll need to get a proper backpack to fit all your travel essentials for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore. Not only does it need to be large enough for all your important travel items, you should also get one that is fitted with RFID. The RFID blocking layer will protect your bank cards and passports from skimmers who can easily steal information with a wireless scanner. This means that you should also get a travel document holder with RFID. Moreover, having a travel document holder means you won’t have to go digging in your backpack for your passport!

8. Swimwear

swimwear

The best way to end off your Malaysia road trip from Singapore is by taking a dip in a pool or going for a swim at a beach. Stretch out your limbs and get swimming in your favourite swimwear and bikini ! Don’t forget to pack more than one bikini so you don’t have to wait for the other to dry before going for another swim. Need help picking the perfect swimwear? Check out the best bikini types for each body shape !

9. Medical supplies

medical supplies first aid kit malaysia road trip from singapore

Another essential you need to prepare for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore is a first aid kit . It’s important to have medical supplies on hand in case you get minor injuries as you explore the rural outdoors of Malaysia. 

Is it possible to drive from Singapore to Malaysia?

Kuala Lumpur malaysia road trip from singapore

The answer is yes, of course! From August 2022, you are able to travel between Singapore and Malaysia’s land borders regardless of your vaccination status, and without testing or quarantine.

Without a daily limit on travellers, you can expect there to be crowds and traffic jams at certain places. You can help make the immigration process faster and smoother by making sure you keep these in mind:

For those using passports

Taking a road trip to Malaysia in a Singapore-registered vehicle means that you’ll need a VEP. You can apply for a VEP through the VEP-JPJ portal and upon successful registration, you’ll get a VEP RFID tag. You may use the confirmation slip of your VEP application if you’re travelling to Malaysia before the RFID tag is ready. You’ll also have to check whether your passport has expired. Make sure that you still have six months left on your passport before it’s due for renewal. 

Also, after passing through a manned immigration booth, check that your passports are stamped before leaving the immigration booth.

For those using the MACS System

If you’re using the Malaysia Automated Clearance System (MACS 2.0), you’re probably someone who frequently travels to and from Malaysia. With the MACS pass, travellers can expedite their customs screening, as there’s no need for immigration stamps when entering and exiting the country. A great way to make up for the long jams you might encounter!

Vehicle insurance for your car or motorcycle is compulsory if you’re entering Malaysia. Make sure that your insurance policy is still valid while you’re on your road trip to Malaysia.

While travel insurance isn’t compulsory, it’s always best to be prepared when going on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore. As foreign visitors are charged for all medical treatments, it’s advisable to get travel insurance to help cover any potential accidents or injuries that might crop up on your visit to Malaysia.

Touch ‘n Go card

Just like how we have a NETS cashcard to pay for parking fees and ERP charges, the Touch N’ Go card is needed to pay for highway and checkpoint tolls when you’re taking a road trip to Malaysia. You can download the Touch N’ Go app before applying for the VEP. The e-wallet can be linked to your VEP-RFID tag for payments on the road. How convenient is that!

Start organising a Malaysia road trip from Singapore this June holidays (2024)

After going through our list of where to go in Malaysia from Singapore, we hope you’re all set to have a fantastic Malaysia road trip! If you need a breather from all the driving, we recommend making a pit stop at a hotel along the way. Interested in a short getaway to paradise? Book a stay at one of the best Batam resorts or best Bintan resorts for an Insta-worthy vacation! Need help organising those travel essentials you’re bringing abroad? Read up on our guide to choosing a luggage and check out our recommendations on the best luggage options in Singapore !

This article was updated on 30 May 2024. Additional research done by Liew Shu Wen.

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By Bryant Tay

When he's not telling others why Tom Holland is the best Spider-man, Bryant can be found indulging in football banter and exploring the vast world of gym fitness. He'll also buy you a cup of coffee if you can name a video game he's never heard of!

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SingaporeMotherhood | Family Fun

Best Family Road Trip Destinations from Singapore to Malaysia

By Cherie Foo

singapore road trip to malaysia

Want to go on a last-minute holiday but don’t want the hassle of organising flights? Take a road trip to Malaysia. Assuming you’re driving from Singapore, you have plenty of options to choose from – including Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, and Johor. Our handy guide tells you how to get to each of them, and where to stay. We’ve also included family-friendly attractions that you shouldn’t miss. Get the kids to pack their bags… it’s time for a road trip!

singapore road trip to malaysia

Malacca is just a four-hour drive from Singapore, the perfect length of time for a first-time family road trip. This lively coastal town used to be occupied by the Dutch, which is why many of their buildings look distinctively European. Even if your kids aren’t old enough to appreciate history, they’ll still be impressed at the fire-engine red Christ Church, which was built using bricks shipped over all the way from the Netherlands. Of course, there’s plenty of delicious local food to keep every Singaporean appetite satiated.

Jonker Street: A road trip to Malacca is not complete without a stroll down Jonker Street. Lined with restaurants, eateries and shops selling souvenirs and knick-knacks, there’s also a night market from Friday to Sunday evenings. When you’re here, check out Mamee Jonker House, a one-of-a-kind Mamee Café that serves dishes revolving around – guess what? – Mamee noodles! Adults can try their hand at customising their very own instant noodles, while little ones can join in the Mamee Monster DIY workshop, and learn how to make noodles from scratch.

singapore road trip to malaysia

Melaka Wonderland: This water park features 16 attractions including the Big Wave pool, the Adventure Island, Anaconda Twist, The Pendulum, and a small dinosaur park. If your kids are still energetic and raring to go after taking on the water park, Melaka Bird Park is just next door!

A’Famosa Resort

A’Famosa is an integrated resort that features a hotel, villas, theme parks and more. The kids won’t be able to get enough of the resort’s Safari Wonderland and Old West. Then there’s their Water Park, which is the largest in Malaysia. Want to shop? Check out Freeport A’Famosa, an outlet mall with over 70 fashion, sport and accessories brands laid out in an open air mall complete with fountains, carousel and even a windmill.

The Settlement Hotel

singapore road trip to malaysia

This swanky hotel used to house a 1960s government office so you’ll be staying in a real slice of history. Apart from a 45-room residence block, the hotel also has four villas with spacious gardens and lawns and five traditional Malay villas, one of which houses their spa facility. There’s complimentary shuttle service to Jonker Street and the Portuguese Settlement as well.

How to drive to Malacca:

The most efficient way to get to Malacca is via the North-South Expressway (NSE). Watch out for the exit at Plaza Tol Ayer Keroh. If you need to take a break, there are several Rest and Service Areas (RSAs) at Gelang Patah, Machap, Pagoh, and Ayer Keroh, where you can grab a bite and fill up your tank. 

2: Kuala Lumpur

singapore road trip to malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is an obvious choice for a quick and easy road trip if you’re a city lover. There’s a smorgasbord of good food to be had here, and plenty of attractions to keep kids occupied.

District 21: This indoor theme park at IOI City Mall has plenty of exciting obstacles and rides that will thrill kids of all ages. Younger ones can head for the tamer activities (such as the launch pad, carousel, tubby ride, and pedal go-kart) while older kids go for the sky trail, where they’ll have to navigate a wobbly rope bridge, balance on narrow planks and traverse a series of oil drums — all up in the air.

View this post on Instagram Here comes weekend again! Enjoy your weekend with your family at Sunway Lagoon and Have Your Best Day Ever with us! Grab your tickets at sunwaylagoon.com/promotions 🛒 now! Awesome 📸 by @rachealkwacz #BestDayEver #SunwayLagoonMY A post shared by Sunway Lagoon Malaysia (@sunwaylagoonmalaysia) on Apr 12, 2019 at 7:57pm PDT

Sunway Lagoon:  One of the best-known theme parks in Malaysia, this is just a short drive away from KL’s city centre. There are six different areas, including a Wild Wild West themed amusement park, a haunted house, an Extreme Park, a Water Park, a Wildlife Park and a Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon. There’s too much to cover in a day so pick your attractions carefully. Older ones might enjoy the Scream Park (a huge haunted house with zombies) and the Extreme Park (where you can take part in activities such as bungy-jumping, go karting and ziplining), but these may be too adventurous for younger children.

(See also: A Kid-Friendly Guide to Sunway Lagoon )

KLCC: This is where you’ll find the famous Petronas Towers. The KL Aquarium and the excellent Petrosains Discovery Centre are also located here. Visit them earlier in the day, then head to the KLCC playground and water park as the sun starts to set. This gigantic playground with a shallow wading pool and waterfall is massively popular with kids of all ages.

PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur

singapore road trip to malaysia

If you need to accommodate a large family, the PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur has spacious family suites that span up to 62 square metres. The hotel comes with all the usual bells and whistles, including a gorgeous pool. Kids under 12 stay free when they use existing beds.

Ramada Plaza Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a more affordable option? Try the Ramada Plaza Kuala Lumpur, a four-star hotel in KL’s Mid-valley district. Facilities include outdoor and indoor swimming pools. Plus, one child under the age of 12 stays free if using existing bedding.

How to drive to KL:

Take the Second Link at Tuas, then follow the signs to KL. From there, it depends on where you are going to. If you’re heading to Bangsar, take the “Bangsar” exit on the New Pantai Expressway once you hit the Sungei Besi toll. RSEs along the way include Machap, Pagoh, Ayer Keroh, and Seremban. Your journey to KL should take approximately five hours, but you might be stuck in heavy traffic once you reach the city.

3: Cameron Highlands

singapore road trip to malaysia

If your kids are clamouring to go somewhere cold, but you can’t afford to take that many days of leave (and splurge on expensive plane tickets), bring them on a road trip to Cameron Highlands!

Strawberry farms

Fun fact: Cameron Highlands is the only place in Malaysia which has strawberry farms. Popular strawberry farms in Cameron Highlands include: Big Red Strawberry, Strawberry Farm Kea, Healthy Strawberry Farm, and Kok Lim Strawberry Farm.

Honey farms

You’d be surprised – the honey farms in Cameron Highlands can make for unexpectedly educational visits. Most have tours and they’ll even walk you through the entire life cycle of the bee, so the kids leave with insights about how honey is made. Popular honey farms here include: Cameron Tringkap Bee Farm, Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm, and Highlands Apiary Farm.

Time Tunnel

singapore road trip to malaysia

Time Tunnel is the first ever memorabilia museum in Malaysia. It aims to preserve the “historical memory and cultural heritage” of Cameron Highlands. Here, you’ll find 1,000-plus exhibits spread out over two levels, from the private collection of See Kok Shan, a collector who grew up in Cameron Highlands.

As you stroll through the exhibits and reminisce about the past, the kids can immerse themselves in the different “sets” that are laid out, complete with props. They’ll be able to role-play as a hairdresser in a salon, pretend to serve drinks behind an old-school drinks cart, and even try their hand at some vintage games. Talk about a blast from the past!

Cameron Highlands Resort

singapore road trip to malaysia

This colonial hotel and boutique hill retreat is perched 1,500 metres above sea level. Serene and peaceful, it offers stunning views of tea plantations and rolling hills. All rooms and suites have gorgeous four-poster beds, polished teak furniture, and luxurious silk fabrics. The two-bedroom suite and signature suite can accommodate four, and cots are available upon request.

Moonriver Lodge

singapore road trip to malaysia

Moonriver Lodge is a family farmstay within the picturesque mountains of Sigar Highlands. There are plenty of fun activities here – a gardening programme to learn how food is grown on-site, a trek to see the Rafflesia Kerrii, the second largest flower in the world, harvesting organic vegetables, fruits and herbs from their kitchen garden, and even helping the staff prepare a meal.

Prefer some quiet bonding time with your kids? Laze on a hammock, play board games, or enjoy family karaoke (just remember to bring along your own VCDs or DVDs).

How to drive to Cameron Highlands:

The drive from Singapore to Cameron Highlands takes approximately eight hours so this is a longer road trip. Leave early so that you can reach Cameron Highlands at around 3pm in the afternoon. Take the North-South Expressway (NSE) and exit at either Simpang Pulai or Tapah. The Tapah route involves a three-hour long winding drive up the mountains, so we’d recommend the Simpang Pulai exit, which gives you a shorter and more manageable route.

RSAs along the NSE include Gelang Patah, Machap, Pagoh, Ayer Keroh, Seremban, Dengkil, Rawang, and Tapah. Hop out and use the restrooms, and stop for snacks/lunch at these areas.

4: Johor (Kota Tinggi)

singapore road trip to malaysia

Johor isn’t just for café-hopping and stocking up on groceries – there are also plenty of family-friendly attractions and sites that you can visit on a short road trip here.

Visit (Kota Tinggi):

Kota tinggi firefly park.

singapore road trip to malaysia

The sight of the night sky lit up with fireflies is spectacular – so don’t pass up on your chance to witness this at the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, an easy 15-minute drive from Kota Tinggi’s city centre. You’ll drive through a palm tree plantation and arrive at a tze char restaurant where you can purchase tickets for your boat ride to see the fireflies. While waiting for the boat, kids can explore the mini farm and old-school playground nearby.

The boat sets sail towards the mangroves, where you’ll witness groups of dancing fireflies. Do pay attention to the audio guides; these provide interesting tidbits about the fireflies and the World War II Fortress that you’ll sail past.

Kota Tinggi Waterfalls

Kota Tinggi Waterfalls is one of the best known waterfalls in southern Malaysia. There are actually two waterfalls here – one near the park entrance, and another that can only be accessed via a walkway. If you’re coming with older kids, head for the cement steps – this will take you up the walkway, and from there, you can get to the larger waterfall. Your kids can swim, or rent tubes to float on. For younger kids who aren’t strong swimmers, stick to the waterslides and shallow pools. Alternatively, go on a hike – there are plenty of trails in the area.

Stay (Kota Tinggi):

Kota tinggi rainforest resort.

This family-friendly resort has swimming pools and natural water pools, and activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, paintball, abseiling, and Flying Fox. Guides can be hired to bring you on a trek through the rainforest, or a hike to the nearby Pelapah Waterfall. The resort’s Family Chalet Room can accommodate up to seven adults and one child – if you’re coming with extended family, definitely consider staying here!

How to drive there:

Kota Tinggi is just an hour away from the Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore. To get to Kota Tinggi Town, take the AH2 and AH18 to the Johor Bahru-Kota Tinggi Highway.

(See also:  Why Kid-friendly Colmar Tropicale Should Be Your Next Family Holiday Destination )

5. Johor (Desaru)

Like Kota Tinggi, Desaru is highly accessible (just 2-3 hours away!) for a road trip, and has plenty of fun for the whole family.

Desaru Ostrich Farm

singapore road trip to malaysia

This family-run ostrich farm is one of the largest in Malaysia. Most of the over 200 ostriches are fenced up for safety reasons, but there are two which roam freely. They are tame, so it’s perfectly fine to get up close and personal with them. Take a selfie with them, or pay for your kids to have an ostrich ride. You can also order an ostrich omelette or other ostrich dishes at the stall later. PS: Ostriches are attracted to shiny objects, so avoid wearing any eye-catching jewellery or accessories here.

Desaru Beach

Desaru’s pristine beach is famous. It overlooks the South China Sea, and the shallow portion of the sea extends pretty far out from the beach, making this an ideal spot for families with children to enjoy water play. If your kids are a little older, consider activities such as parasailing, jet-skiing, or a thrilling ride on an inflatable donut. Why not pay a visit to the newly-opened Desaru Coast ?

Desaru Fruit Farm

View this post on Instagram Went to the @desarufruit, and this guy was amused with lemon growing on tree. We spotted many different kinds of fruit trees and there was a mini petting zoo within. Animals always delight the kids, and they were most happy feeding koi fish. . #desarufruitfarm #lemontree #fruitfarm #sgtoddler #sonshine #instakids #shortgetaway #toddlerboy A post shared by Karen (@mumscalling) on Mar 10, 2019 at 12:58am PST

Desaru Fruit Farm has more than fruit – there’s a petting zoo, a paintball arena, and a go-kart and ATV track as well. Walk around by yourself and purchase fruits, or pay for the guided tour to learn more about how over 100 varieties of fruits and herbs are grown. This comes with a complimentary fruit platter. Remember to purchase some fresh fruits to enjoy on the drive back to Singapore!

Stay (Desaru):

Lotus desaru beach resort.

One of the most popular resorts in Desaru, this has apartments as well as more traditional bedrooms and suites. Baby cots and strollers are available for loan. Within the beach resort, there’s a water park, a “High Ropes” obstacle course that’s suitable for children over age 10, pond water rafting, paintball, Flying Fox, kayaking, and jungle trekking activities.

Sand and Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa

singapore road trip to malaysia

This family-friendly resort has a beautiful pool with a swim-up bar, and an air-conditioned gym that’s floating within the pool. The Family Suite Duplex is a comfy, spacious suite that spans two floors. You get your own space (with a luxurious four-poster bed) and kids get a colourful pirate-themed room. Perfect!

Take the same route to Kota Tinggi from the Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore. Then go via the Senai-Desaru Expressway and cut through Johor River to get to Desaru Beach.

Take a Road Trip today!

So you see, there’s no need to head to exotic, far flung locations in order to have fun. Just round up the entire family, hop into the car, and go on a road trip to visit our neighbours up north!

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The Ultimate Road Trip Guide Travel from Singapore to Malaysia

Atiqah Akhib

  • Travel Tips

Table of Contents

Covid restrictions have been relaxed, borders have been reopened, and international travelling has been made possible yet again.

For two years, the border between Malaysia and Singapore has been closed due to the rising cases of Covid-19, but as of 1st of April 2022, Malaysians can now travel to Singapore and Singaporeans too are now free to cross the bridge and visit Malaysia—be it to visit your close relatives and say hi to your friends, or even for leisure!

travel-to malaysia-for-best-food-in-Johor-Bahru

So, what exactly do you need to know before packing your bags and setting off on your trip from Singapore to Malaysia?

Flights might only take you less than an hour to reach Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) from Changi Airport, but of course, the price per passenger might not be to your liking. So, how do you get there without leaving a huge hole in your wallet?

Continue scrolling through and discover the cheapest ways to travel to Malaysia , the essentials that you must have before you start your journey, and some of the best places to visit during your trip other than the one and only Petronas Twin Towers.

Preparations for the Trip

Valid passport.

singapore road trip to malaysia

Of course, first things first—make sure your passport is not expired! Keep in mind that your passport must be valid for more than six months in order to enter Malaysia.

You might not notice that your passport is nearing the expiry date especially when you have not been travelling abroad for quite some time, so it’s best to check the date and renew it if needed!

Vaccination

Make sure you’re fully vaccinated before travelling to Malaysia. While fully vaccinated visitors are no longer required to self-quarantine upon reaching Malaysia.

Mysejahtera App

At this point of time, you are still required to install the Mysejahtera app on your mobile. Some places still need to are still required to check the risk status of visitors through the app.  You need to upload your vaccination certificate to your Mysejahtera App so that your vaccination status will show “Fully Vaccinated”.

The app is available on both Apple and Android app stores, so be sure to download it to your smartphones beforehand.

Touch n’ Go Card (TNG)

For those who choose to drive to Malaysia, it is a must for you to keep a Touch n’ Go card with you at all times.

You’ll have to go through several highway tolls and all of them only accept cashless payments, so be sure to have sufficient balance topped up in the TNG card.

Other than being used for tolls, the TNG card can also be used for the MRT, LRT, Monorails, KTM, bus rides as well as parking fees.  

EZL-x-TNG-Motoring-Card

source: Ez-link

To ease your trip, you can go ahead and purchase the new EZ-Link x Touch n’ Go Motoring card , a dual-currency smart card which can be used in both Singapore and Malaysia.

You can easily get it from selected 7-11 outlets throughout Singapore as well as EZ-Link official Shopee store.

T op-ups can be made in various shops and petrol stations scattered throughout Malaysia too, but it is highly recommended that you download the Touch n’ Go e-wallet app in your smartphones.

singapore road trip to malaysia

source: Touch’N Go

Through this app, you can make payments at various stores that accept e-wallet payments and if you’ve purchased Enhanced Touch n’ Go card, you can even top-up your balance online!

Cheapest Way to Travel from Singapore to Malaysia

Now that you have all those essentials listed above settled, it’s time to decide which transportation method you prefer to travel to Malaysia.

Other than flying, there are three other options to choose from. While taking flights could indeed save a lot of your travelling time, these three options listed below can definitely save your bank accounts.

Travel by Bus - Suitable for those travelling with friends

The cheapest option to Malaysia is by none other than bus rides. However, this option is not recommended for those who are travelling with infants and elderly as it requires a lot of walking around and sometimes, long queues.

It is also not advisable to pack your things in a bulky and huge luggage, so backpacks are the best choices here.

First and foremost, you must reach Woodlands Train Checkpoint before you could even get on any of the Cross Border Shuttles. To do so, you can start your journey at Woodland MRT. 

Once you’ve arrived, try to look for sign boards that can lead you to the Woodlands Bus Interchange. Once you’ve gone down the staircase, you’ll straight away notice several buses waiting for you. But which one do you need to take?

Woodlands-Bus-Interchange

You can either take Bus 856 (Berth 11) which only has six stops before you could reach the checkpoint or Bus 903 (Berth 4) and get off after ten stops.

You can also opt for Bus 903, 911T, 912, and 912 B , however, getting to the checkpoint via these buses is rather confusing. So, be sure to ask the bus driver first before you set your bags!

You may refer to this article for more in depth guide on taking the bus to the checkpoint.

You can, of course, walk to the checkpoint although you might be drenched in sweat upon your arrival. If you’re not in the mood to wait for the buses, feel free to take the taxi or Grab.

Woodlands-train-checkpoint

source: Google Maps

Now that you’ve arrived at Woodlands Train Checkpoint after a good 10-15 minute bus ride, go ahead and make your way to the Woodland CIQ (Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex).

Once you’ve gotten through the Singapore immigration checkpoint, all you have to do is head down the escalator and take the Cross Border Shuttle Bus which will take you straight to Johor CIQ.

With less than $2, you can either choose to embark on the SBS Transit Bus (160, 170, 170X, and SMRT 950) or take the Causeway Link buses if you’re a Causeway Link ticket holder.

Upon reaching JB CIQ, proceed through the immigration process and before you know it, you’re free to roam around and take an exciting trip around Johor Bahru !

To ease your travels, feel free to rent a car—we recommend booking one from Easybook .

easybook

Travel by Train - Suitable for everyone including those with small children and elderly people.

If you feel taking bus too hassle or not in the mood for driving, and prefer to sit back and relax, then you can opt to travel to Malaysia via train rides—plus, the price for the train tickets never change, so don’t worry about any extra surcharges imposed especially during peak seasons.

To begin your trip, simply make your way to the Woodlands station. After going through the customs clearance, those who had purchased the train tickets online can straight away board the train while those who have yet to buy the tickets can do so at their official ticket counters for only $5.

Once you have the tickets in your hands, get on the train and enjoy the 5-minute journey from Singapore to Johor Bahru.

However, the train can only take you to JB Sentral, so you might have to figure out your own transportations should you wish to travel to the other parts of Malaysia. You can always rent a car or make use of the KTM train which connects many cities and towns in Malaysia.

Take the train from JB Sentral up until Gemas which is where you can find two KTM lines that lead you to different parts of Malaysia: The main KTM railway line goes all the way up to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang while the Jungle Railway goes to the eastern parts of Malaysia such as Kelantan.

Travel by Car - Suitable for those travelling with infants and elderly

how-to-travel-to-malaysia-by-Car

If you’re planning on driving to Malaysia, you first need to ensure that your vehicle insurance policy covers your time in Malaysia. Then, you’ll have to register for the mandatory Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) if you haven’t done so already.

For first timers, you can register your vehicle details online here .

sample-of-malaysia-vehicle-entry-permit-rfid-tag

Once you’ve received a confirmation email, you’ll be contacted via another email to confirm your address as the VEP RFID tag will be posted straight to your doorstep. Now that you’ve gotten the tag, you’re free to start your journey to Malaysia!

*The tag installed also comes with an e-wallet which you can use to pay at the tolls around Malaysia.

While parking spaces in shopping malls can be paid with TNG and debit cards, there are also others that require parking coupons.

You can purchase parking coupons from various stores located nearby the parking spaces (most of the time, they’ll put up a sign if they’re selling any) or if you prefer to avoid any unnecessary hassles, go ahead and download the parking apps in your phone.

However, the apps might differ according to the states that you’re in, so be sure to use the right one.

Also, if by any chance, you are involved in an accident on the road, remain calm and dial up any of these emergency numbers according to your needs:

Police and ambulance services: 999

Fire and rescue department: 994

Accidents: 991

Tourist police hotline: 03-2149 6590

There are two different highways to choose from to explore Malaysia: The North South Highway (NSH) and the Eastern Coastal Route.

The latter is great for those who’d like to go on a road trip filled with some of the great views of the South China Sea while the NSH is often used by travellers who are planning on visiting the city of Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Ipoh, and Penang.

Road Trip To The Most Popular Destinations In Malaysia

The Ultimate Road Trip of Malaysia

Johor Bahru

If you’re travelling to Malaysia by land, the first state that you’ll reach is none other than Johor—so why not spend some time exploring its city, Johor Bahru while you’re there?

Also known as Malaysia’s southern jewel, Johor Bahru or JB is a popular tourist destination that could cater to almost everyone—be it those travelling with a group of friends or those visiting with family members and small children.

legoland-malaysia

Need some good laughs with your kids? Get a ticket to LEGOLAND Malaysia and spend a few hours having fun at their seven different themed areas.

Go on exciting rides, be prepared to get drenched on their water slides, and say hi to some of the marine animals at the SEA LIFE Aquarium.

Avid food hunters on the other hand, surely won’t be disappointed as Johor Bahru also has an abundance of unique cafes and restaurants serving different kinds of menu while shopaholics out there could swipe their cards at Johor Premium Outlets.

adventure-water-park-desaru

source: Desaru Coast

If you have more time, don’t forget to visit Desaru too! Overlooking the South China Sea, this exact destination in Johor is great for those who plan on having a great time with their families and big group of friends.

Get a ticket to Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, a unique waterpark famous for its backdrop of traditional kampung and at least 13 thrilling rides and slides to keep you entertained all day long.

What’s even better is that it is only a matter of time until the opening of a brand new jetty that directly connects Singapore and Desaru, so no more time consuming travelling time!

red house in melaka

Whether you’re a history buff or simply someone who loves sightseeing, then Melaka should definitely get included in your “must-visit” list. Filled with dozens of historical buildings, you can get a chance to learn a thing or two about Malaysia’s history and Melaka’s origin.  

The best way to explore this colonial town is of course, by foot as many of its attractions are located pretty near to each other.

Start your tour by visiting a couple of museums, take a closer look at the A Famosa fort along with the 16th century Church of Saint Paul on top of the breezy hill overlooking the town, try out some pandan pancakes with sweet gula melaka at a few of the Instagrammable cafes, and witness the lively nightlife at Jonker Street

Ipoh-City-Malaysia

Unique temples, themed water parks, historic castles, heritage museums, cave explorations, and countless local cuisines —these are the things that could describe the wonders of Ipoh. 

Although this gem in the north is located at least a six hour drive from Johor Bahru, Ipoh surely is worth a visit at least once in your entire lifetime!

Home to the Lost World of Tambun, you, your friends, and family can get a chance to have a blast splashing water and go on thrilling water slides.

What’s best about the theme park is that it is well surrounded by hills and mother nature—which makes you feel as if you’re really in the middle of a long lost world deep in the jungle!

ipoh-Gua_Tempurung

source: Wikipedia

For those who prefer something more challenging, head to Gua Tempurung and explore the old cave. Be prepared to crawl through narrow openings, slide down the steep and slippery surfaces, and encounter some exotic insects calling the cave their home.

History lovers could pay Kelly’s Castle a visit while foodies could spend hours jumping from one eatery to another trying out mouth-watering egg tarts, dim sums, curry mee, tau fu fah, salted chicken, and many more.

Concubine Lane is definitely a must visit and if you can’t decide which of those famous food in Ipoh that you should not miss, here are some of our suggestions.

George Town Penang Island

Nicknamed the Pearl of the Orient and Malaysia’s food paradise , Penang should get included in your itinerary especially if you have an undying love for delicious food and cuisines.

From nasi kandar to pasembur, rojak, cendol, and roti canai served with a generous amount of gravy, a sunny side up, and a juicy chicken thigh—you can have them all.

It is not difficult to find restaurants and stalls selling all those delicacies above, but there are also some that you should not miss: Penang Road Teochew Cendol, the town’s most famous cendol stall that has been operating since the ‘30s as well as Hameed Pata Mee Sotong in Esplanade Park Food Court.

Ghost Museum Penang-Shop

source: Ghost Museum Facebook

While Penang is best known for its eclectic mix of food and culinary scene, this precious town is also the home to an array of interesting museums, parks, and sightseeing spots.

One of the most peculiar museums that you find in Penang includes the Ghost Museum which showcases eerie and horrifying depictions of ghosts and spirits originating from both Malaysia and Indonesia.

As for those who crave for amazing sunset views, don’t forget to stop by Batu Ferringhi!

Cameron and Genting Highlands

Cameron-Highlands

None can ever say no to spending some quality time on top of a breezy hill, sipping a hot cup of strawberry tea and munching on some tasty pastry while overlooking an entire tea plantation.

Cameron Highlands can offer you just that! Founded in the 19th century, Cameron Highlands is now filled with a great number of points of interest that could keep you entertained.

Other than sitting around in cafes, you can visit one of its many strawberry farms, get a taste of the unique nasi lemak strawberry, take a closer look at a colourful rose farm, tour around the villages of orang asli , and climb up Mount Brinchang if you’re feeling adventurous.

genting-highlands-view

Of course, if you’ve visited Cameron Highlands, you must also spend some time in Genting Highlands.

In contrast to Cameron highlands which is a spot surrounded by beautiful mother nature, Genting Highlands focuses more on theme parks and thrilling fun! The main highlight is of course, the recently opened Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park.

Tioman and Perhentian Islands

In the mood for a spectacular view of the beach combined with the crystal clear sea water? If so, then pack your bags and make your way to either Tioman or Perhentian Islands.

Tioman Islands is located in Pahang while Perhentian can be found in Terengganu, however, both can offer you a pleasant vacation experience.

You can spend the entire day lying on the soft sand beaches and go snorkelling to see all the unique and colourful marine life in their natural habitat.

Redang Sea Beach

For those staying in Johor, you can take a ferry from Mersing to reach Tioman Island. As for the Perhentian Islands, since it is located on the eastern coast of Malaysia, you’ll first have to go through several hours of journey to Kuala Besut jetty and take the speedboat to the islands.

You’ll know that you’re nearing the pristine islands when the deep dark ocean water turns clear to the point where you can easily spot the corals and small marine animals swimming around—if you’re lucky, you might even take a glimpse of stingrays dashing through underwater!

Kuala Lumpur

Last but not least, what’s a trip to Malaysia without setting foot on its capital city, Kuala Lumpur?

If splurging your paychecks at high-end stores, sipping coffees at Instagrammable cafes , eating at some of the best fine dining restaurants, and visiting the Petronas Twin Towers are your definition of a perfect trip, then the busy city of Kuala Lumpur is the right destination for you.  

bukit-bintang

Do keep in mind, however, that the city is also known for its traffic jams especially during peak hours, but don’t worry too much as KL has a wide option of public transport—you can take the MRT, LRT, and Monorail lines to reach all sorts of main attractions such as the Central Market which is popular for Malaysian arts and crafts. 

Pavilion, the top shopping complex filled with an array of branded stores, the KL Tower which can offer you a great view of the entire city, and many more.

Getting to Malaysia from Singapore is indeed hassle-free. All you need to do is plan your itinerary beforehand and choose which one of the transportation options that you prefer. 

Once the first few steps are done, what’s left is for you to pack your backpacks and get ready for a fun road trip with friends and family!

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Dive Into Malaysia

Dive Into Malaysia

4-10 Day Singapore Malaysia Itinerary: Enjoy The Perfect Singapore And Malaysia Trip!

Planning a Singapore and Malaysia trip? Brilliant! This is a great part of the world and these destinations make a great combination.

Thanks to Singapore and Malaysia being so close together, it’s very easy to travel from Singapore to Malaysia and to enjoy a trip with both destinations.

In this article, I’m going to give you the perfect Singapore and Malaysia itinerary so all you have to is follow it! I do this by walking through a Singapore Malaysia itinerary for up to ten days.

If you are looking for a 4 days 3 nights Singapore Malaysia itinerary, simply stop reading at the 4 day point. If you want longer, keep reading! It’s easy to adjust this Singapore Malaysia tour itinerary to whatever time period you like.

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary:Merlion Park and Singapore skyline

I also describe exactly how to get from Singapore to Malaysia at the end as well as give you some specific Singapore to Malaysia day trip suggestions.

This is a Singapore to Malaysia itinerary which assumes you arrive in Singapore and leave from Malaysia. You can reverse it and make it a Malaysia Singapore itinerary instead.

You will also need to factor in time to get back to your starting point if you need to fly out of the same airport from where you started. Luckily, flights, taxis and buses between Malaysia and Singapore are quick and easy.

Excited? I hope so! This is a fabulous part of the world and I can’t wait to help you have the PERFECT Singapore Malaysia trip!

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

4-10 Day Singapore Malaysia Itinerary: Enjoy The Perfect Singapore And Malaysia Trip!

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary For 4-10 Days

Day 1 – arrive in singapore.

 Gardens By The Bay Singapore

Today is an introduction to Singapore.

  • Start the day at Gardens by the Bay. Visit the conservatories and OCBC Skyway ( tickets here) where you walk among the futuristic trees. If you have kids, take bathers and also visit the childrens gardens. This is my favourite attraction in all of Singapore so don’t skip it! If you are on a budget, it’s still worth coming and walking around for free.
  • Have lunch in the shopping centre at the base of the iconic Marina Bay Sands which is right next to Gardens by the Bay.
  • Take the short train trip to Clarke Quay and walk though here and the historic Fort Canning on your way to the next attraction.
  • Spend the afternoon at the National Museum of Singapore ( discount tickets here ).

Day 2 – Singapore

Singapore's Chinatow

Today is all about discovering Singapore’s three main cultural groups.

  • Start the day with some breakfast in Little India and then visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple.
  • Walk to the nearby Malay area of Kampong Glam. Visit the Malay Heritage Centre and Sultan Mosque before having some Malay food for lunch.
  • Finish with some temple visits in Chinatown before shopping for souvenirs at the markets here and having some great Chinese food for dinner.

Day 3 – Singapore

Sentosa Island and merlion

Your final day in Singapore is all about fun, Sentosa Island style! Sentosa Island is a small island just off the tip of Singapore which is easily reached by public transport, cable car or even walking over. It’s packed full of fun attractions and is Singapore’s playground.

It’s full of top class facilities and just walking around is fun. There are so many different attractions that it’s hard for me to say exactly what you should add to your Singapore Malaysia trip itinerary. It depends on your interests and budget as the attractions can be expensive and add up quickly. There are also many free attractions on Sentosa which you may prefer to stick to.

Here are my top recommendations:

  • Start by heading to the Merlion Plaza and taking a photo of the Sentosa sign with the giant merlion as pictured above. Consider climbing up inside the Merlion Tower for great views ( tickets here ).
  • Take the Skyline Luge and chair lift. This is one of our favourites!
  • For more adrenaline rushes, try Mega Adventure where you can zipline and take a 15 metre jump or fly at iFly !
  • Visit easily one of the best aquariums in the world at S.E.A. Aquarium ( tickets here ).
  • If you have kids, visit the Palawan Pirate Ship. A free (and amazing) water playground.
  • Walk to the Southern Most Point of Continental Asia.
  • Enjoy the beaches
  • Visit Fort Siloso and learn some WWII history

In the evening, head to the free light shows at Resorts World Sentosa.

I also recommend you take the cable car over one way ( discount tickets here ). The views are great! I also love Universal Studios Singapore but with one day, I would go to a few different attractions instead rather than spending the day at one so you get a better taste of Sentosa Island.

To save money and time, buy attraction tickets beforehand at Klook. We have saved so much money this way. Click here for many options.

There is also the Sentosa Fun Pass that can save you a lot of money. You basically buy a number of tokens and then exchange these tokens at various attractions on the island. The number you need depends on what you want to see. I suggest you will at least want 80.

You can find the Sentosa Fun Pass here and information about how many tokens are required for each attraction here.

Where To Stay In Singapore

Here are our best options for each budget. Pick the one that best suits you.

LUXURY: Marina Bay Sands

singapore road trip to malaysia

For luxury and the ultimate Singapore experience, you can’t go past the Marina Bay Sands, one of the most iconic hotel buildings in the world.

Have great views over Singapore as you relax in the infinity pool or visit the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck. Shop and eat in the downstairs shopping centre or enjoy one of the many hotel restuarants or room service. You can use the gym, day spa or simply have a drink at the pool bar.

There are a range of room types with doubles and twins on offer. All are spacious and well appointed and have everything you would expect in a 5 star hotel. You can pick the view you want and there are suites for extra luxury with their own living area.

In addition to staying in a fabulous hotel, you are also just moments walk away from Gardens By The Bay and other top Singapore attractions and there is a subway station below the hotel making sightseeing easy. This is the ultimate Singapore hotel and you have to stay here at least once!

Click here for the latest prices.

MIDRANGE: Village Hotel Bugis

singapore road trip to malaysia

The Village Hotel Bugis is our favourite hotel for a mix of a great price, very convenient location and a good standard of rooms and facilties. Located close to Bugis MRT station and many shopping centres, it’s easy to get around to all of Singapore here. It’s also located in the Malay area, Kampong Glam, and a short walk from Little India.

There are a range of room types which are all comfortable and well appointed, if on the cosy side. This includes family options which makes this a great choice with kids – we have stayed here with ours multiple times.

The hotel also has a swimming pool, gym and restaurants.

BUDGET: Backpacker Cozy Corner Guesthouse

singapore road trip to malaysia

For bargain seekers, the Backpacker Cozy Corner Guesthouse is also located in a convenient location near Bugis MRT and has everything you need for a budget Singapore stopover with excellent value rooms for the location and price.

Rooms include air conditioning and wifi and there are 2, 3 and 4 people rooms available. To save money, they do not have private bathrooms.

Singapore And Malaysia Itinerary 4 days

If you have just 4 days, use your final day in your Singapore Malaysia itinerary 4 days to do a day trip into Malaysia. Below, there are a range of Malaysia day trip options. Click here to read them and pick one!

My personal favourite is a fun day at Legoland Malaysia , but pick whichever most appeals to you.

We can book a taxi for you for the day to take you into Malaysia and back into Singapore again. Click here and fill in the form with what you want and we’ll get back to you.

If you are only looking for a Singapore Malaysia itinerary 3 days then cut out one of the Singapore days above which is least appealing.

Want the Easiest (and BEST) Way to travel between Singapore and Malaysia?

We can book a taxi for you from anywhere in Malaysia to anywhere in Singapore for a great price.

A taxi is the best way to cross the border as you don’t have to leave the air-conditioned comfort of your vehicle.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Day 4 –Johor Bahru

Legoland Malaysia

It’s time to say a sad goodbye to Singapore before heading over the causeway to more adventures in Malaysia!

There is more information below about how to travel between Malaysia and Singapore. It’s very straightforward.

We can also hire a taxi for you which picks you up at your hotel in Singapore and drops you off at your hotel in Johor Bahru for just SG$90. Click here to book and for more details.

Today, you will have a great day at Legoland Malaysia. You can buy discounted tickets here.

Day 5 – Johor Bahru And Melaka

Central Johor Bahru

This morning, it’s time to see some of Johor Bahru before catching a bus in the afternoon to Melaka.

  • Head to central Johor Bahru near the causeway to Singapore. You can do some shopping or explore the streets to the west of the main strip here. Some are quite pretty and it’s a nice area to stroll around. Eat lunch before leaving Johor Bahru.
  • Take a taxi to the main bus station in Johor Bharu, Larkin Bus Terminal, and then take a bus to Melaka. You can book bus tickets here on some great bus services. The bus takes about three hours and I recommend you book a bus for the early afternoon.
  • Take a taxi to your hotel, freshen up and head to Jonker Street in the evening. If it’s Friday or Saturday night, enjoy the night market, but there are plenty of places to eat any night on this famous strip.

Note that Melaka and Malacca are different ways to spell the same place.

If you have your own vehicle on this journey, I recommend stopping at Muar on your way. It does not take much extra time to do this, but Muar is a pretty city with some great street art and is a great plae to break up the journey.

Read more about Muar here.

Where To Stay In Johor Bahru

Luxury: doubletree by hilton hotel johor bahru.

singapore road trip to malaysia

Located just minutes from the Causeway in a convenient location, the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru is a great choice if you want a luxury hotel which is easy to use as a base to explore both Johor Bahru and Singapore.

Despite not being rated as a five-star hotel, it is our top pick of the options near the Causeway. It has first class facilities including a stunning outdoor swimming pool on the 13th floor, four restaurants, gym, steam room, spa and wifi.

Each of the hotel’s spacious guest rooms have everything you would expect from a top option such as air conditioning, TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a pillow menu. There are also larger suites with separate living areas as well as rooms which are apartment style and have a kitchenette with washing machine. All this for a great price!

MIDRANGE: Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru

hourly rate hotel in Johor Bahru

For a midrange price option, you can’t go past the Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru. Also well located near the Causeway and shopping, this is a great base for Singapore and Johor Bahru exploration.

There are many facilities at this hotel. You can use the tennis and squash courts, a gym, sauna and a yoga studio.  Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a day spa, three onsite restaurants and bars.

There are a range of accommodation options at this hotel. In addition to standard hotel rooms, you can book a room with a separate living and sleeping area or even a room with a kitchenette.

BUDGET: Baguss Hotel And Serviced Apartment

singapore road trip to malaysia

For a real bargain, consider the Baguss Hotel and Serviced Apartments. Close to the Causeway and downtown shopping areas, this standard, 3-star hotel is especially a great choice for families and groups looking for accommodation.

There are a range of hotel rooms suitable from two to four people. Each hotel room includes air conditioning, a TV, wifi, tea and coffee making facilities and a refrigerator. For larger groups, there are 3 bedroom apartments which can accommodate up to 6 people. These apartments include a kitchen and lounge room.

Find more Johor Bahru accommodation options here.

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary 5 Days

If you are looking for a 5 days 4 nights Singapore Malaysia itinerary then you can do the five days above and head back to Singapore to fly out on day 5 instead of on to Melaka.

You could also consider spending all 5 days in Singapore and just taking a day trip to Johor Bahru. If money isn’t an issue, this is a good choice. Otherwise, it is more budget friendly to stay in Johor Bahru accommodation.

If Melaka sounds interesting to you, you could also follow the first four days above and then do a day trip to Melaka on the final day of your Singapore Malaysia 5 days itinerary ( find one here ). This is a long day but I have done it myself and it’s very doable.

You can also hire a private taxi here for the day to travel quickly and easily to Malaysia for the day.

Day 6 – Melaka

Melaka's pretty waterfront

Today is all about exploring Melaka’s historic centre and Chinatown before heading to your final stop, Kuala Lumpur, in the evening.

Get your walking legs on! Everything mentioned here is close and, while you can take taxis or trishaws to get around, the attractions are so close together that there is no real need.

  • Start at the Sultanate Palace where you can walk through a replica of the palace of Sultan Mansur Shah who ruled Melaka from 1456 to 1477.
  • Take a photo of Porta de Santiago and explore the ruins of St Paul’s Church.
  • Walk downhill to Stradthuys, the town hall and governor’s residence that dates back to the Dutch in 1650. Trishaws tend to congregate here so you can go on a ride on one if you like.
  • Walk over the river to Chinatown and head to 8 Heeren Street to check out this 18th century Dutch period residence.
  • Next, walk through Chinatown to Baba and Nonya Heritage Centre.
  • By now, you have probably worked up an appetite. Eat some lunch.
  • Finish your Melaka day tour by visiting three temples all close together: Cheng Hoon Temple, Masjid Kampung Kling and Sri Poyatha Venayagar Moorthi Temple.

In the late afternoon, catch your onward bus to Kuala Lumpur. This takes about 2.5 hours and I recommend booking a bus from 3-4pm.

Click here to book it now.

On arrival, check in to your hotel. If you feel like going out, head to the night markets in Petaling Street or Jalan Alor.

You can find our recommend hotels in Kuala Lumpur here.

Where To Stay In Melaka

Luxury: casa del rio melaka .

Located in a premium position just 300 metres from Jonker Street and right by the river, you will find the best option in Melaka, the stunning 5-star luxury boutique hotel, Casa del Rio Melaka Hotel.

There are a a range of room types on offer including options for up to 6 people in two-bedroom suites. All rooms include standard fittings such as a TV, wifi, tea and coffee making facilities, air conditioning and a desk. If you book a suite, you will also have separate living and dining areas. Some suites even include an outdoor spa.

This hotel features first-class facilities with a stunning infinity swimming pool offering views across the Melaka River as well as three restaurants, a gym, a rooftop garden and day spa.

MIDRANGE: Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka 

This 5-star hotel at a midrange price point is a great choice. Located along the Melaka River just a short taxi ride from Jonker St, the Swiss-Garden Hotel offers guests modern accommodation.

There are a range of rooms which accommodate up to two guests and include all the standard amenities including a TV, air conditioning, wi-fi, tea and coffee making facilities, private balcony and seating area.

You can also book a suite which includes separate dining and living areas. Some rooms  also include panoramic views of the ocean and the Melaka River. Ask for a high level!

The Swiss-Garden Hotel includes a range of great facilities including two big swimming pools, a tennis court and the Sky Garden rooftop bar. The hotel also has direct access to a shopping mall.

BUDGET: T Hotel Melaka

singapore road trip to malaysia

The T Hotel which is located in Melaka City just a 15 minutes walk from Jonker Street, is a good choice for budget travellers.

They offer double, twin, triple or family suites. All are comfortable and clean and come with air conditioning, wifi, a TV, tea and coffee facilities and a seating area.

You can find more options for where to stay in Melaka here .

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary For 7 Days

Merlion statue fountain in Merlion Park and Singapore city skyline

If you are looking for a 6 nights 7 days Singapore Malaysia itinerary you could stop right here. This does mean that you don’t have much time in Kuala Lumpur. If you would prefer some time in Kuala Lumpur (which I do recommend), drop either Johor Bahur or Melaka, whichever appeals less. It’s easy to get buses from Singapore to Melaka directly or from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur.

You can then pick a day or two from the following three recommmend days in Kuala Lumpur for your Singapore Malaysia itinerary 7 days.

Days 7-9 Kuala Lumpur

singapore road trip to malaysia

Three days in Kuala Lumpur is a great amount of time to get a good taste of this city on your Malaysia Singapore trip.

You can read my full (and detailed) itinerary for 3 days in Kuala Lumpur here.

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary For 10 Days

If you have 10 days, you can add an extra day to Kuala Lumpur using my suggestions in my 3 day itinerary article here .

You could also add an extra day to Singapore if that appeals more or if you want to do an activity there like visit Universal Studios. However, if you are looking for a Singapore Malaysia budget itinerary then the less time in more expensive Singapore, the less you will need to spend so Kuala Lumpur can be a better pick.

Batu Caves

Singapore And Malaysia Trip 10+ Days

If you have more than ten days, yay! There are so many great places that you can add on in Malaysia.

I have a full itinerary document here for Malaysia travel for ten days. This includes travelling to Ipoh, Penang and Langkawi after Kuala Lumpur so you can add one or all of these destinations to the itinerary above to create a plan for up to 17 days.

Click here to download it now.

If you want to visit Thailand as well, you can find itineraries here which include Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand as well as other south east Asia destinations.

Singapore To Malaysia Day Trip

Desaru Coast

If you don’t have time for a big Singapore Malaysia adventure then you may just with to take a one day trip to Malaysia from Singapore. With a timeframe of less than 5 days, this is what I recommend.

This is completely possible and you could spend a 1 day trip to Malaysia from Singapore doing one of the days in the itinerary above to Johor Bahru or Melaka. Just note with Melaka that you will spend a lot of time travelling over the day but it is highly possible – I have done it myself.

Singapore to Malaysia day trip ideas:

  • Legoland Malaysia: The easiest and maybe most fun suggestion is to spend a day at Legoland Malaysia. There are buses directly here from Singapore and it’s a fun and easy place to enjoy. More details here .
  • Johor Bahru: You can catch the local bus over the causeway and explore central Johor Bahru.
  • Melaka: You can either pay for an expensive day tour here (easiest option) or save on your Singapore Malaysia trip cost and take public transport from Singapore to Melaka and back again and explore Melaka on your own, as per day 6 above. The bus takes about four hours each way so buy your ticket in advance and go early.
  • Desaru Coast: This coastal area in Malaysia is just one hour from Singapore with a half-hour ferry ( buy here ) and half-hour shuttle and is perfect if you would like some white sandy beach time or to have some fun visiting attractions such as a huge water park, ostrich, fruit or crocodile farm.

The easiest way to day trip to Malaysia is in your own private taxi. We can hire you one of the day with a safe and reliable local operator. Click here to get a quote.

They can pick you up from your Singapore hotel and drop you off there again at the end of the day.

How To Travel From Singapore To Malaysia

singapore road trip to malaysia

Getting from Singapore to Malaysia could really not be easier. There are buses, planes, trains and even taxis across. It’s been streamlined as much as possible because it’s such a popular option with thousands of people doing it all the time.

The easiest way to get across the causeway from Singapore to Malaysia is to hire a private car and driver. These can be quite affordable for a family or small group and you can be picked up and dropped off wherever you like and don’t need to get out of the car at the border.

Click here for more details about hiring a private driver to take you to Malaysia . This starts at just SG$90 for up to 5 people.

You can also get a local taxi but they are less flexible. If you catch a Singaporean taxi, they can only drop you at Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. If you catch a Malaysian taxi, they can drop you off anywhere in Malaysia but can only pick you up Queen Street Bus Terminal. They also need to be especially licensed to do this – you can’t just take any taxi.

The cheapest (and still quite easy) way to get across is with public, local bus called the Causeway Bus. Note that with the bus, you will need to get off and back on again at both immigration points in Singapore and Malaysia with all your belongings. Once you are through, you simply wait for the next Causeway Bus to come along. You can catch it from:

  • Kranji MRT (route CW1) from SGD$1.50 (RM1.90 return)
  • Queens Street (route CW2) from SGD$3.50 (RM3.40 return)
  • Newton Circus (route CW5) from SGD$3.30 (RM3.40 return)

The buses stop along the way so you can also hop on elsewhere along the route.

If you need to get between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur then I recommend flying.  This is often a very good price and cuts out the longer journey. For further afield than KL, I also recommend flying.

If you are going across to Johor Bahru, Melaka or anywhere else south of Kuala Lumpur then going overland is the best choice. We can book you a taxi from anywhere in Singapore to anywhere in pensinular Malaysia, and there are direct buses too.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

Getting Around Malaysia

An easy way to get around Malaysia is with private taxi. These can take you between different towns and cities.

Click here for our long distance taxi booking service.

There is also a great bus system. Find tickets and prices here.

Singapore Malaysia Trip Map

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary map

I hope you enjoyed this Singapore Malaysia DIY itinerary.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

You can also find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia here. There are more Malaysia itineraries here.

Related posts:

singapore road trip to malaysia

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

singapore road trip to malaysia

Let's Venture Out

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary: 4-12 days Guide

Have you always wanted to travel to Singapore and Malaysia but don’t know how to plan your trip? Well, I’ve created the perfect Singapore and Malaysia itinerary that you can easily modify to your liking. 

Singapore’s well-connected airport and awesome transportation system make it easy to get around while Malaysia’s diverse culture, history, and buzzing cities serve as a great introduction to Southeast Asia. 

Since Singapore and Malaysia are located right next to each other, planning a trip to both countries doesn’t require a huge amount of money. 

Whether you have only 4 days or up to 12 days, this ultimate Singapore Malaysia itinerary will show you how to plan an awesome trip with all the best places to visit and how to get around while minimizing your costs. 

Top Experiences and Tours in Singapore & Malaysia

  • Gardens by the Bay admission tickets
  • Petronas Twin Towers skip-the-line tickets
  • Batu Caves guided tour with hotel transfers
  • Langkawi Skycab and Skybridge admission ticket

Book cheap bus tickets from Singapore to Malaysia by clicking here .

Street Art in Melaka: Singapore and Malaysia Itinerary

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Table of Contents

Day by day Singapore and Malaysia trip itinerary 

  • Day 1-3: Singapore 
  • Day 4: Melaka 
  • Day 5-6: Kuala Lumpur 
  • Day 7-8: Ipoh 
  • Day 9-10: Penang 
  • Day 11-12: Langkawi 

Day 1 – Singapore 

Modern architecture, unusual skyscrapers, avatar-like gardens, cheap and delicious food, an efficient transportation system, the list goes on! While Singapore is slightly more expensive than Malaysia, it’s still worth visiting and I’ll show you a few tricks on how to save money! 

Jewel Changi Airport 

Start off with the one thing you can’t miss on your Singapore and Malaysia itinerary: The Jewel! If you’re landing in Terminal 1, you’ll find the Jewel and HSBC Rain Vortex as soon as you get out of Customs. It’s one of the tallest indoor waterfalls in the world and is totally free to visit! 

Apart from seeing the waterfall, there are lots of other attractions at the Jewel such as the canopy park, mirror maze, hedge maze, bouncing net, and more. These do require an entrance ticket that you can book here.

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS TO THE ATTRACTIONS AT JEWEL CHANGI

The Jewel is open 24/7 but the Rain Vortex is operational from 11 a.m to 10 p.m from Monday to Thursday and from 10 a.m to 10 p.m from Friday to Saturday. There’s also a Light and Sound show every night at 8 p.m and 9 p.m from Monday to Thursday with an additional show at 10 p.m from Friday to Sunday.

Visiting Jewek at Changi airport is one of the top things to do during any Singapore Malaysia itinerary

How to get from Changi Airport to the city center? 

Private transfer.

If you’re traveling with a group, the most convenient option is to book a private airport transfer . The driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall and take you directly to your hotel.

CHECK PRICE FOR A PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFER

One of the cheapest ways to get to the city center is by using the MRT. To be more cost-effective, make sure to buy a  Singapore Tourist Pass for 3 days which costs only S$34 inclusive of a refundable deposit of S$10. The pass is also available for 1 and 2 days.  

Alternatively, you can buy a  Singapore Travel Card  which is similar to an EZ-link card.

Just follow the signs saying “Train to City”. You can get between each terminal for free by using the Skytrain until you reach the main MRT terminal where you can buy your ticket or tourist pass. 

Cheaper than regular taxis, Grab is very affordable and a great way to get to the city if you’re short on time.

Airport shuttle/bus 

For about S$ 10, you can book a shuttle that will drop you off at most hotels in the Downtown area. The airport shuttle departs every 15 minutes. Find out more here .  

Kampong Glam and Haji Lane 

After you’re done at Changi Airport, it’s time to explore Kampong Glam which is also known as Singapore’s Arabic Quarter. This area is full of traditional shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and more.  

As you walk around, you’ll notice the golden domes of the  Masjid Sultan,  one of the largest Mosques in Singapore.  The Mosque is open from Monday to Saturday and is free to visit outside of prayer times (check their official website here for more info).

Make sure to also explore  Haji Lane  which is famous for its trendy boutiques, cafés, and colorful street art.    

Colorful street in Haji Lane Singapore

Shopping at Bugis   

For those looking for cheap deals, head to  Bugis Street Market.  This market consists of affordable shops selling cute clothes and souvenirs. There’s also a section selling food and drinks if you want to have lunch. 

If instead, you’re looking for international brands, make your way to Bugis Junction and Bugis+ shopping malls.

Little India  

From Bugis, take the downtown line to Little India. Spend some time walking around the neighborhood to explore the street arts, colorful buildings and temples. The most famous building in Little India is without a doubt the  Tan Teng Niah House  which is a very popular Instagram spot. 

For food and shopping, head to  Tekka  Center  which is packed with rows of shops selling Indian clothes and accessories.  

The Tekka Center also has a food court section serving all sorts of delicious Indian and Chinese dishes including roti prata, murtabak and chicken chop noodles.   

If you have enough time, it’s also worth checking out  Mustafa Center  which is open 24/7. 

the colorful Tan Teng Niah House in Little India in Singapore

Related post: 29 most beautiful Instagrammable locations in Singapore

Where to stay in Singapore?

The southbridge hotel  .

Located in the heart of Chinatown, just a few meters from the MRT station, The Southbridge Hotel is perfect for couples and solo travelers alike. 

While the rooms are quite small, the hotel is clean and modern and each room has a TV, coffee station, air-conditioning and a private bathroom. 

CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

Atlantis Pod @ Chinatown  

Also located close to the Chinatown MRT,  Atlantis Pod  is perfect for those looking for a budget hotel. Great for solo travelers, each room has individual pods that look like a spaceship! You’ll get access to a shared bathroom, fridge, toaster and free Wi-Fi. 

Prices start from US$ 20 for a single pod, including free breakfast. There are two other Atlantis Pods in Little India and  Bugis as well.   

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN SINGAPORE

Day 2 – Singapore 

Wake up bright and early, on the 2 nd  day of your Singapore Malaysia itinerary to explore the Marina Bay area. Most of Singapore’s top attractions are located in this area, so you’ll most likely spend the whole day here.  

Merlion, Esplanade Walk and Helix Bridge  

Start off with the Merlion which is a half lion and half fish statue and also the country’s Mascot. Keep in mind that it’s a very popular attraction so an early start is advisable.  

Merlion Statue Marina bay Singapore

Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands

From the Merlion, turn left and head towards the DNA-shaped Helix Bridge. From there you’ll get a panoramic view of the esplanade,  Art Science Museum  and the  Marina Bay Sands .      

If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the Singapore skyline, you can visit the  Skypark observation deck at Marina Bay Sands. 

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO SKYPARK

Skypark opening hours : 11 a.m to 9 p.m, daily

Girl looking at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore

Tip : If you want to visit several attractions in Singapore, I recommend getting the Klook Pass Singapore to get discounted rates.

Gardens by the Bay   

From the Marina Bay Sands, it should take about 10 minutes to walk to the Gardens by the Bay . Make sure you get to the  Cloud Forest  at exactly 9 a.m to get a chance to view the 35-meter waterfall without the crowds.  

Take the lift to the Lost World to see the waterfall from above and walk along the suspended walkway. 

Next head over to the  Flower Dome  which is another conservatory with a collection of flowers and plants from all over the world. Just make sure to book your tickets online as they may sell out.

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR CLOUD FOREST AND FLOWER DOME

Cloud Forest and Flower Dome opening hours : 9 a.m to 9 p.m daily      

Massive indoor waterfall at the Cloud Forest

Next, you can just spend the rest of the day exploring the Supertree grove and the other free gardens. If you want to walk along the OCBC Skyway which is a suspended walkway that connects two of the Supertrees, tickets cost S$ 8 for adults and S$ 5 for children. 

Gardens by the Bay opening hours : 5 a.m to 2 a.m daily 

Supertree grove at Gardens by the Bay

Spectra Light and Garden Rhapsody Show  

As it starts getting dark, watch the sunset on the esplanade before making your way to the Marina Bay Sands where you can watch the Spectra Light and Water Show. For 15 minutes straight you’ll be mesmerized by the laser lights projecting images over the water spray, it’s without a doubt one of the best things to do in Marina Bay !  

Spectra Light and Water show at Marina Bay

Finally, go back to the Gardens by the Bay just in time for the Garden Rhapsody show to see the Supertrees illuminated by colorful lights. 

Showtimes:  

  • Spectra Light and Water show : 8 p.m and 9 p.m every night with additional shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 p.m  
  • Garden Rhapsody show : 7:45 p.m and 8:45 p.m every night 

Garden Rhapsody at night in Singapore

Related post:  What to do in Marina Bay Singapore

Day 3 – Singapore 

Sentosa island  .

Sentosa is an island resort particularly popular among families with kids. You can choose to visit Universal Studios  or just chill at either Siloso, Palawan or Tanjong Beach.  

Keep in mind that food and drinks on the island are quite expensive, so it’s a good idea to bring your own picnic lunch. 

There are three ways to get to Sentosa Island: 

  • By foot:  Take the boardwalk from Vivo City which is about a 15-minute walk. Once you’re on the island, you can then use the Sentosa Express and a bus/tram (both free). 
  • Cable car:  This is the most scenic way to get to Sentosa. Tickets for the cable car from Mount Faber Station cost about US$ 18.20. ( get discounted tickets here ).  
  • Monorail:  You can also take the Sentosa Express from 7 a.m to 12 a.m. The station is located at Vivo City, Lobby L, Level 3 and tickets cost about S$4 (US$ 2.80). 

You can then take Sentosa Express for free to get back to Singapore. 

Bridge on Palawan Beach

Chinatown  

For the afternoon, check out Chinatown, a must-visit on any  Singapore itinerary ! Here are the best attractions in Chinatown:

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple : One of the most famous landmarks in Chinatown is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. The temple is free to visit and houses the Buddha’s tooth, several statues and artifacts. The temple is open daily from 7 a.m to 5 p.m. 

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown

Chinatown Street Market : Explore Chinatown Street Market to shop for cheap souvenirs, electronics, clothes and food. You can find quite a few street art around here as well. 

Sri Mariamman Temple : Make sure to also visit Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple which is open daily from 6 a.m to 12 p.m and from 6 p.m to 9 p.m. 

Thian Hock Temple : This is one of the oldest temples in Singapore dedicated to the Chinese Goddess of the Seas. While the inside of the temple is made up of intricate carvings, the back is painted with a beautiful mural that narrates the story of Hokkien immigrants.  

Street art on the back of Thian Hock Temple

Other things to do in Singapore:

Singapore Zoo   and  Night Safari : Especially great for kids who want to see over 300 species of birds and animals.  Check ticket price here

Singapore Flyer : For a panoramic view of Singapore’s skyline.  Check ticket price here

Singapore River Cruise : Take a leisurely ride along Marina Bay for a different perspective of Singapore’s landmarks.   Check ticket price here

SEA Aquarium at Sentosa : One of the world’s largest aquariums with over 1,000 species of marine life. Check ticket price here!

Clarke Quay:  If you want to experience the nightlife in Singapore, Clarke Quay is the place to be! 

Japanese and Chinese Gardens and Lakeside Garden:  While the gardens   are found outside of Singapore’s main tourist hub, they are worth adding to your itinerary. Stroll around to see the different plants, statues of Chinese heroes and even a Pagoda built on the lake! The gardens are open every day from 6 a.m to 11 p.m ( update : both the Japanese and Chinese gardens are currently under renovation but the Lakeside Garden is still open).

Girl walking towards pagoda at the Japanese and Chinese Gardens in Singapore

Singapore Botanic Garden:  The Singapore Botanic Garden houses many tropical plants as well as the National Orchid garden. Entrance is free except for the Orchid Garden which costs S$5 (US$ 3.50). The gardens are open daily from 5 a.m to 12 a.m. 

Old Hill Street Police Station (MCI Building) : The Old Hill Street Police Station is easily recognizable by its colorful windows and is one of the most popular Instagrammable spots in Singapore !   

Orchard Road : It’s the perfect place to do some high-end shopping. If you’re on a budget, it’s still a cool place to wander around and do some window shopping. 

Peranakan houses on Joo Chiat Road : Wander around Joo Chiat Road for a dose of pastel colors and intricate architecture. Although Joo Chiat Road is a very popular photo spot, it doesn’t attract too many people since it’s a bit far from the city center.  

Colorful Peranakan houses on Joo Chiat Road

Related post: How to spend 4 days in Singapore ?  

Day 4 – Melaka 

It’s now time to move on to Malaysia ! To save time, I recommend starting with Melaka (Malacca), a historic city known for its red-brick colonial buildings, street art and delicious food.  

Melaka is perfect for a short Malaysia getaway , so one day should be enough to explore the city, if not, you can spend around 2 hours the next morning exploring any attractions that you missed. 

Rickshaw rides in Melaka

How to get from Singapore to Melaka? 

I recommend taking the bus early in the morning to have enough time to explore Melaka. There are several bus stations around Singapore and you can just look for the one closest to your hotel. The journey lasts for about 4-5 hours depending on traffic.

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM SINGAPORE TO MELAKA HERE

Related post: Guide to taking the bus from Singapore to Melaka

Dutch Square 

The Dutch Square is where all the main attractions are located. Explore around to shop for souvenirs and make sure to take a picture with the “I love Melaka” sign! 

You can also take a ride on the colorful rickshaws around Dutch Square. A ride costs about RM 40 (US$ 9.15) and will take you to all the nearby attractions. 

Christ Church 

The Christ Church is one of the oldest Protestant Churches in Malaysia. Built by the Dutch in the 1700s, it’s hard not to miss the imposing red building.  

Christ Church at the Red Square Melaka Day Trip

Stadthuys 

If you’re a history buff and want to learn more about Melaka, make sure to visit the Stadthuys. The entrance costs only RM 10 (US 2.30). 

St Paul’s Hill  

From the Stadthuys, take the stairs up to St Paul’s Hill and Church. The Church was built in honor of the Virgin Mary but unfortunately, it has been partially destroyed and only the statue of St Paul and a few ruins are left. St Paul’s Hill still offers a great lookout point over Melaka. 

Statue of St Paul at St Paul's Hill in Melaka

A’Famosa Fort 

Next, take the other set of stairs located on the side of St Paul’s Church to get down to A’Famosa Fort. The Fort was built by the Portuguese in the 1500s and is an interesting place to visit to get a glimpse into the history of Melaka. 

I highly recommend going on a hunt for street art in Malacca which can be found mainly along the river bank and all over town. 

Related post: Where to find street art in Melaka Malaysia?

Menara Taming Sari 

Head over to the Menara Taming Sari which is a revolving tower providing incredible 360-degree views over Melaka City. The tower is open from   10 a.m to 11 p.m and costs RM 23 (US$ 5.30) for adults and RM 15 (US$ 3.20) for children. 

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS TO MENARA TAMING SARI

Melaka Straits Mosque 

For the best sunset views, make sure to add the Melaka Straits Mosque to your Singapore and Malaysia trip itinerary. I recommend taking a Grab there since the Mosque is found about 10 minutes outside the town center. 

Sun setting behind the Melaka Straits Mosque

Other things to do in Melaka: 

The Shore Sky Tower : For great views of Melaka. Check ticket price here

Skytrex Adventure : A fun and adventurous activity to do with family or friends. Hop from tree to tree with zip lines, rope bridges, swings and more. Check ticket price here

Jonker Street : If you’re visiting Melaka during the weekend, make sure to explore Jonker Street Night Market to taste some of the best street food!    

Melaka River Cruise : Take a 45-minute ride along the river to see various landmarks and street art. The boat ride costs RM 30 (US$ 6.85) for adults and RM 25 (US$ 5.70) for children and is operational from 9 a.m to 11.30 p.m. 

Maritime and Naval Museum : For RM 20   (US$ 4.60), pay a visit to the Maritime and Naval Museum. The museum is a replica of a Portuguese ship that sunk along the Strait of Melaka and has several exhibits showcasing the history of Melaka. 

Maritime and Naval Museum in Melaka

Daily Fix Café :   While this isn’t technically an attraction, eating at the Daily Fix Café is a must! Get there right at opening time to secure a spot and indulge in the most delicious Pandan pancakes and coffee! 

Related post: 16 things to do in Melaka in 1 day

Where to stay in Melaka? 

Hotel arissa .

If you want to stay in a quiet neighborhood not too far from the main attractions, Hotel Arissa  is perfect for you. They provide clean and comfy rooms with a large double bed and a private bathroom. 

CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN MELAKA

Day 5 – Kuala Lumpur 

It’s finally time to explore the metropolitan city of Kuala Lumpur for 2 days ! Not only is KL a melting pot of culture, but it’s home to the world’s tallest twin towers and super cheap shopping malls. And, if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat! 

How to get from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur? 

Take the bus from Melaka Sentral to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan in Kuala Lumpur followed by a Grab (about RM 21 or US$ 4.80) to the city center. The bus journey lasts for about 2-2.5 hours and prices start from US$ 3. You can click the link below to book your bus ticket.

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM MELAKA TO KL HERE

Related post: How to get from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur?

Petronas Twin Towers 

The Petronas Twin Towers are perhaps the most iconic building in all of Kuala Lumpur! Standing at a height of 452 meters, the views here are breathtaking, especially at night.  

Since it there are usually lots of people visiting, I recommend  booking your skip-the-line ticket in advance  to avoid waiting for hours. 

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR PETRONAS TOWERS 

Operating hours : 10 a.m and 6 p.m from Tuesdays to Sundays (including public holidays).  

saloma bridge with twin towers in the backdrop in KL

KLCC Park 

For another perspective of the Petronas Twin Towers, you can wander around KLCC Park for free. Don’t miss out on the Lake symphony show to see the water fountain light up. 

Lake symphony light and water show : 8 p.m, 9 p.m and 10 p.m every night 

Aquaria KLCC  

If you want to get close to marine life, make sure to add  Aquaria KLCC  to your itinerary. The aquarium houses a collection of 5,000 land and sea creatures and you can even walk under a water tunnel with sharks or other fish swimming over your head! 

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR AQUARIA KLCC 

Opening hours : 10 a.m to 7 p.m daily 

Shopping in Bukit Bintang 

Whether you want to shop in high-end or budget shopping malls, Bukit Bintang is where you should be headed! Some of my favorite budget shopping malls include Sungei Wang Plaza and Berjaya Times Square. 

people walking around pavilion mall in bukit bintang KL at night

Related post: Best thing to do in Bukit bintang

Jalan Alor Night Market  

As it starts getting dark, make your way to Jalan Alor night market which is a single lane surrounded on both sides by hundreds of street food stalls. From Chinese to Malay, Thai and Indian Food, you’re bound to find something to feast on! 

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? 

Gold 3 boutique hotel .

I recommend staying in Bukit Bintang so that you’re within walking distance to most attractions. Gold 3 Boutique Hotel is the perfect budget option in Bukit Bintang and features modern and clean rooms with a private bathroom.  

Ansa Hotel Kuala Lumpur 

Another option is Ansa Hotel on the opposite side of Gold 3 Boutique Hotel. Since the hotel offers a view of the KL Tower and offers more spacious rooms, it’s slightly more expensive. 

Tip : Be sure to read my guide to the best hotels in Bukit Bintang for more hotel options. Alternatively, you can read my guide to the best hotels in Chinatown KL if you’re looking for more budget options.

On the other hand, if you prefer to stay in a hotel that has an infinity pool, you can read my guide to the best KL hotels with an infinity pool !

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KUALA LUMPUR

Day 6 – Kuala Lumpur 

Kl forest eco park  .

Start your morning by taking a walk at the KL Forest Eco Park. Located just a few minutes from Bukit Bintang, it’s the perfect place to recharge and connect with nature. 

There are several walking trails to choose from or you can even walk along the suspended canopy bridge which provides views over the rainforest and skyscrapers.  

The park is open every day from 8 a.m to 5.30 p.m and tickets cost RM 40 for tourists or RM 10 for Malaysians.

Girl walking on canopy bridge at the KL Forest Eco Park

KL Tower (Menara Tower)  

From the KL Forest Eco Park, walk to the  KL Tower , also known as the Menara Tower. Towering at a height of 421 meters, KL Tower offers an incredible 360-degree view all over Kuala Lumpur. 

If you’re on a tight budget, I recommend visiting the KL Tower instead of the Petronas Twin Towers. Not only are the tickets cheaper, but KL Tower also offers better views since the Skydeck is completely open. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for a discount! 

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR KL TOWER  

Opening hours : 10 a.m to 10 p.m daily. 

Girl sitting in skybox at KL Tower

 Chinatown 

Next stop is Chinatown ! This neighborhood is home to rows and rows of stalls selling fake designer goods, cheap souvenirs and delicious street food. A few places I recommend visiting are Petaling Street, Katsuri Walk and Central Market. 

One tip I have for you is to always bargain! A good starting point is about 40 % of the original price quoted. 

people walking along petaling street in chinatown kl

Related post: Top things to do in Chinatown KL

Little India (Brickfields)  

Another must-visit on this Singapore Malaysia trip is Little India. Splashes of colors on the streets and buildings, Bollywood music playing in every shop, colorful flower garlands hanging on the side of the road and delicious but spicy food are a few of the things you can expect to see in Little India! 

Thean Hou Temple 

Situated just outside of Little India, Thean Hou Temple is one of the largest and most beautiful temples in Southeast Asia!  

Dedicated to Mazu, Goddess of the Sea, Thean Hou is an architectural masterpiece with hundreds of bright-red lanterns adorning the temple grounds. 

Since the temple sits on top of a hill, the upper deck provides a panoramic view of the city and you can even spot the KL Tower on a clear day! 

Entrance fee : Free  

Girl wandering around the Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur

Other things to do in Kuala Lumpur: 

Batu Caves : The climb over the 272 steps leads to a Hindu temple inside a cave and is one of the most popular Instagram spots in KL .  Check price for a guided tour of Batu Caves + hotel transfers here . 

Masjid Jamek : This is one of the oldest Islamic Mosques in Kuala Lumpur. It’s free to visit from Saturdays to Thursdays, outside of prayer time.   

KL Bird Park : Home to more than 3,000 local and foreign birds, the KL bird park is a great attraction for kids and adults alike. Entrance costs RM 63 (US$ 14.45) for adults and RM 42 (US$ 9.60) for children. 

Related post: 2 days in Kuala Lumpur: Ultimate guide  

Day 7 – Ipoh 

Often overlooked in favor of Penang, Ipoh is a small underrated town mostly known for its colorful street arts, old buildings, cave temples and the famous Ipoh White Coffee.  

Mural Lane Ipoh Malaysia

How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh? 

Take the bus (US$ 6) from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan in KL to Ipoh Amanjaya bus station which is located about 20 minutes from Ipoh Old Town. From there, take a Grab (RM 15 or US$ 3.45) to your hotel. Normally, the journey should last about 4 hours unless there’s a lot of traffic. 

If you don’t want to get stuck in traffic, take the train instead. The journey lasts for about 3 hours and tickets cost about RM 40 (US$ 9.10).  

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM KL TO IPOH HERE

Go on a Street Art Hunt  

What I particularly love about the street arts in Ipoh is that they are interactive and there’s absolutely no one waiting in line to take a picture! 

You’ll find several pieces, especially in the Old Town. One of my favorites is the rickshaw art by Ernest Zacharevic which is a clever combination of a real rickshaw set against a painting of an old man collecting trash. 

You can find other street arts along Mural Art’s Lane and Concubine Lane. 

Rickshaw mural in Ipoh by Ernest Zacharevic

Concubine Lane and Kong Heng Square 

Your street art hunt will most certainly lead you to Concubine Lane. During the week, this little side road is completely deserted but during the weekend, it can get quite busy. Shop owners will set their stalls out on the street to sell souvenirs, jewelry and delicious street food.  

Located just a few meters from Concubine Lane, Koh Heng Square is another shopping spot where you can buy souvenirs and clothes.  

Where to stay in Ipoh?  

Grayhaus soho ipoh  .

Single and queen rooms with a private bathroom at Grayhaus Soho cost about US$ 12 and US$ 16 respectively. Coffee and toast are available anytime during the day and night and laundry will set you back RM 15 (US$ 3.45) per load.  

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN IPOH

Day 8 – Ipoh 

Taste the famous ipoh white coffee .

For breakfast make your way to either Nam Heong White Coffee or Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong. Both claim to be the inventor of the famous drink made of roasted coffee beans and condensed milk.  

While you’re there, I recommend ordering some egg tarts and dim sum as well. 

Explore the Cave Temples  

Today, you’ll be spending the day visiting three beautiful temples. Most of the temples in Ipoh are built inside limestone caves and some even provide stunning views IF you’re prepared to tackle over 400 stairs! 

Start off with  Perak Cave Temple  (Perak Tong), one of the most popular temples in Ipoh. The inside looks very intricate with paintings on the cave walls and golden Buddha statues. If you have the energy, take the 450 steps which lead to a panoramic view of Ipoh! 

View from the top of Perak Temple in Ipoh is one of the best things to do during any Singapore Malaysia trip itinerary

Next up is  Sam Poh Tong.  Near the entrance, you’ll find a small pond with a pagoda in the middle. As you walk through the giant archway to get inside the temple, you’ll eventually reach a small tunnel leading to the back of the temple. Here, you’ll find another pagoda but unfortunately, you cannot go in. 

Kek  Lok Tong  is found in one of the most picturesque locations. The temple complex comprises of Buddha statues on the inside, while the outside features a beautiful lake garden surrounded by karst cliffs. 

Lake garden at Kek Lok Tong

Related post: Ipoh travel guide: 14+ awesome things to do  

Day 9 – Penang 

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Georgetown in Penang is quite similar to Ipoh although somewhat more touristy. Just like Ipoh, Penang is famous for its old colonial buildings and street arts.  

How to get from Ipoh to Penang? 

If you take the Sri Maju bus (US$ 5) from Ipoh, you’ll be dropped off directly in Penang at the Sungai Nibong Express Bus Terminal. The journey will last for about 2.5 hours. From there, take a Grab to Georgetown for about US$ 4. 

Some buses stop in Butterworth and you’ll need to take a ferry to Georgetown. So, make sure that the drop-off point is specifically at Sungai Nibong Express Bus Terminal. 

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM IPOH TO PENANG HERE

Kek Lok Si Temple 

Featuring thousands of Buddha statues and colorful carvings, Kek Lok Si temple is situated on top of a hill outside of Georgetown and is a must-visit on any Singapore Malaysia trip itinerary.   

The temple is free to visit except for the Pagoda which requires a small entrance fee of RM 2 (US$ 0.45). 

Kek Lok Si is open every day from 8.30 a.m to 5.30 p.m. 

Kek Lok Si Temple Penang Malaysia

Penang Hill and the Habitat

Another fun activity to do during your Singapore Malaysia itinerary is taking the funicular to Penang Hill and the Habitat . You can also hike up to the top but the path is very steep and requires at least 2 to 3 hours. The funicular operates from 6.30 a.m to 11 p.m.

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR PENANG HILL

Chulia Street Night Market 

Penang isn’t called the food capital of Malaysia for nothing! Head to Chulia Street at night to sample local Malaysian dishes like Nasi Kandar, Char Kway Teow, Lok Lok and more!    

Where to stay in Penang? 

Blue mansion (cheong fatt tze) .

Although a bit on the pricier side, the Blue Mansion is perfect for those who want to get a taste of living in a traditional Peranakan home. You’ll definitely be blown away by the architecture and decorations. Fun fact: The Crazy Rich Asians movie was even shot there!

East Indies Mansion

If you’re looking for something slightly cheaper, take a look at  East Indies Mansion . It sits right in the middle of Georgetown with the ferry port only a 5-minute drive or 10-minute walk away.

Rooms are set inside a beautifully restored Chinese shophouse and are spacious and clean with a private bathroom.

They also have family rooms/suites that can accommodate up to 8 people.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN PENANG

Day 10 – Penang 

Go on another street art hunt.

Since Georgetown is very touristy, you’ll need to wake up super early if you want to take pictures of the street art without anyone else in the shot. Starting from 9/10 a.m, the streets will be packed with tourists. 

You can find lots of street art right in the center of Georgetown, around Lebuh Armenia, Lebuh Ah Quee and Lebuh Canon while others can be found at the Hin Bus Depot.

Most of the street art are marked on google maps, so it should be easy to find them. You can also check out this street art guide of Penang here .  

Street art in Penang

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion) 

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion  is arguably one of the most famous attractions in Penang. Easily recognizable by its striking blue facade, the former home of the Chinese businessman, Cheong Fatt Tze has now been restored into a beautiful museum/hotel. 

You can take a guided tour during the week at 11 a.m, 2 p.m and 3.30 p.m or during the weekend at 11 a.m and 2 p.m.

The tour costs RM 25 (US$ 5.65) for adults and RM 12.5 (US$ 2.85) for children and lasts for about 45 minutes. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A GUIDED TOUR OF THE BLUE MANSION

The Blue Mansion in Penang

Pinang Peranakan Mansion 

Another museum worth visiting is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. The museum is open every day from 9.30 a.m to 5 p.m and the entrance fee is RM 20 (US$ 4.60).    

Chew Jetty 

Finally, end the day by enjoying the sunset on Chew Jetty. The Chew Jetty was set up in the 19 th  century by Chinese immigrants who built their homes on wooden stilts. While people still live in these houses, it’s become a popular tourist attraction with shops selling mostly souvenirs. 

Other things to do in Penang:

  • Love Lane : Your typical backpacker’s scene, Lone Lane is lined with hipster cafes and bars and is particularly busy during the evening. 
  • Wat Chaiyamangalaran Thai Temple  – A Thai Buddhist temple with colorful carvings and mosaics and a 33-meter reclining Buddha statue.  

Man walking towards a bar on Love Lane in Penang

Related post: Best Penang itinerary for first-time visitors

Day 11 – Langkawi 

Langkawi is the perfect beach destination for any type of traveler, whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to have some lazy days. I recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Langkawi .

The island is made up of 104 islands with palm-fringed beaches, waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and even a spectacular Skybridge floating at 660 meters above sea level! 

Cenang beach in Langkawi

How to get from Penang to Langkawi? 

Currently, the only way to travel from Penang to Langkawi is by plane. Direct flights are available, taking only about 30 minutes.

CHECK PRICE FOR A FLIGHT FROM PENANG TO LANGKAWI HERE

Chill on the beach 

Langkawi has many beautiful beaches but the most popular one is Pantai Cenang. The beach is situated in the southwest of Langkawi and reminds me a lot of Ao Nang in Thailand , except that the beach is much nicer!  

If ever you’re tired of just lying on the beach, you can partake in some watersport activities such as jet skiing or parasailing. 

Other beaches in Langkawi include Pantai Tengah, Pantai Kok and Tanjun Rhu. 

Pantai Chenang sign on the beach in Langkawi

Visit a night market 

If you’re craving some budget-friendly local eats, make sure to visit at least one night market! The night markets not only sell food but you can find clothes as well.  

They are held every single night in different locations.

Related post: Langkawi 3 days 2 nights itinerary

Where to stay in Langkawi? 

Chenang inn .

Conveniently located less than 5 minutes from the beach,  Chenang Inn is an awesome budget hotel with clean and spacious rooms with a private bathroom. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN LANGKAWI

Day 12- Langkawi 

Langkawi skycab and skybridge.

For today, take the Langkawi Skycab to the Langkawi Skybridge, the world’s tallest suspension bridge! The bridge provides the most incredible views over the rainforest, waterfalls and even the Thai Islands! 

Since it’s one of the most popular attractions in Langkawi, I highly recommend you book your tickets in advance and make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before opening time.  

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR LANGKAWI SKYCAB AND SKYBRIDGE

Langkawi Skybridge on the mountains of Langkawi

Seven Wells Waterfall  

About a 15-minute walk from the Skybridge, you’ll come across the Seven Wells Waterfall . There’s a small pool at the bottom where you can swim in or you can take the stairs until you reach the top of the waterfall.  

The upper section has several pools and a small suspended bridge that provides views over the Langkawi Skycab. 

Seven Wells Waterfall

Related post: Complete guide to Seven Wells Waterfall

Other things to do in Langkawi: 

  • Take an island hopping tour of the Langkawi archipelago
  • Kilim Geoforest Park
  • Skytrex Langkawi
  • Eagle Square in Kuah Town 

Related post: Ultimate 2-week Malaysia itinerary

Budget for your Singapore Malaysia Itinerary 

While Singapore is slightly more expensive than Malaysia, it’s still possible to visit on a budget. Plan to budget around US$ 100-150 per day for Singapore and US$ 50-100 per day for Malaysia. You can check out both my articles about Singapore and Malaysia for a detailed budget breakdown. 

I hope you got some ideas on how to plan your Singapore and Malaysia trip itinerary. Please let me know in the comments if you have any questions. And for those who want to extend your trip to include Thailand as well, I have the perfect 10-day itinerary for Thailand for you which includes stops at some of the most beautiful Thai Islands!

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singapore road trip to malaysia

Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Hi, I like your Singapore & Malaysia itinerary. I’m planning to visit both countries and then Japan. Question, how can I get back to the airport? Should I fly out from Malaysia or go back to Singapore. If so, is there a fast train that takes me to an airport? Thx

Hi Susie. Thank you! If you’re going to follow the itinerary and end in Langkawi, you can fly from Langkawi Airport to Japan. Note that depending on the airline, there will be a stopover in either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Just choose the one that’s the cheapest. Btw, there’s no direct train from Langkawi Airport to Kuala Lumpur Airport or Singapore, you can only take a flight.

Hi! Is it best to book all hotels ahead of time. Itinerary ideas for Singapore and Malaysia looks great but I’m afraid when coordinating the train flight bus booking won’t all align. Is there an easy way to planning? Thanks!

Hello. I always book hotels ahead of time but choose those that offer free cancellation in case something comes up. Most hotels on Booking .com and Agoda allow you to cancel a few days before.

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City Nomads

Road Tripping in Malaysia: The Best Routes for Exploring Malaysia From Kuala Lumpur

singapore road trip to malaysia

PUBLISHED February 25th, 2022 05:00 am | UPDATED April 5th, 2022 11:24 am

After long years of pandemic lockdowns, we’re all itching for more adventure – and a roadtrip sounds like just the ticket. With Malaysia lifting its ban on interstate travel, thoughts of scenic views, food trails , and nature escapes are getting us revved up already. Here’s our bucket list of the best routes for exploring Malaysia from KL, ranging from short drives to multi-day getaways.

Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara National Park

singapore road trip to malaysia

Drive time: 2 hours from KL to Fraser’s Hill, 4 hours from Fraser’s Hill to Taman Negara National Park

If you’re craving a dose of nature, a multi-day getaway to Malaysia’s green lung of Taman Negara National Park sounds like a plan. But rather than driving there direct from Kuala Lumpur, we recommend making a stopover at the rainforest-rich hamlet of Fraser’s Hill in Pahang. Spread over seven lush hills, this highlands village is criss-crossed with scenic mountain trails, prime birdwatching spots, and the popular Jeriau Waterfall. If you’re planning to stay overnight, you’ll find an array of charming colonial bungalows available for homestays – relics of the British colonial era.

Next stop: Taman Negara National Park . This pristine 130-million-year-old forest ranks among the world’s oldest rainforests, clocking in at 4,343 square kilometres of camping, cave exploring, and trekking opportunities. Highlights include getting high with stunning views on the world’s longest canopy walkway, as well as visiting the Kampung Orang Asli – a village of Malaysia’s native aborigines renowned for their blowpipe hunting skills.

Kuala Lumpur to Tanjong Jara

singapore road trip to malaysia

Drive time: 2 hours from KL to Gambang, 3 hours from Gambang to Kuala Dungun

Fancy a breezy coastal drive? You can get your fill of sun, sand, and spa time with a winding roadtrip from Kuala Lumpur along Malaysia’s tranquil east coast. First up, a dose of wellness – make your way to Mangala Resort & Spa in Gambang for a day or two of traditional Malay massages and luxe villa living, in the serene heart of fruit orchards and wetlands.

Hit the road via the picturesque Federal Route 3 , which runs along Malaysia’s east coast and offers hours of splendid seaside scenery. This route takes you through placid beach towns like Cherating – known for its laidback sands and leatherback turtles. In no time, you’ll reach the golden sands fronting Tanjong Jara Resort in Kuala Dungun, an elegant resort designed to resemble a 17th-century Malay palace. With a whole Spa Village to relax in, you can bet on your worries melting away here.

Kuala Lumpur to Penang

singapore road trip to malaysia

Drive time: 2.5 hours from KL to Ipoh, 2 hours from Ipoh to Penang

Want to eat your way through Malaysia? No better way to do it than a roadtrip from Kuala Lumpur through the hawker food heaven of Ipoh, and onward to the buffet of street eats that is Penang. Ipoh has no end of local delights to stuff yourself silly with – white coffee and chee cheong fun for breakfast, curry mee and claypot crab noodles for lunch, and silky caramel custard to top it all off. Walk off the food coma with a tour around Ipoh’s vibrant street art gems, particularly in Ipoh Old Town.

Strap in for the two-hour drive north to Penang’s capital of George Town , where every nook and cranny is crammed with tasty street eats. Start your day right with Apong Guan ‘s famously fluffy apom manis filled with bananas and shredded coconut, then vie with the crowds at Sup Hameed for nasi kandar (aka rice with curry-based meats and veggies). Drive over to third-generation stall Bridge Street Prawn Noodle for a slurpworthy bowl of Hokkien mee, before stopping by Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul for an icy dessert.

Kuala Lumpur to Taiping

singapore road trip to malaysia

Drive time: 3 hours from KL to Cameron Highlands, 3 hours from Cameron Highlands to Taiping

Nothing spells peace quite like rolling through the countryside in Cameron Highlands . Wind down your window and breathe in the cool highlands air, as you rove through lush tea plantations dotted with honeybee farms, strawberry farms, and rustic villages. Once there, a slice of countryside awaits. The Robertson Rose Garden flaunts over 100 species of roses, best seen from mid-spring; strawberry picking is another popular activity at farms, where you can eat them ripe and juicy right off the stem.

Ready to explore further? Wind your way past mountain ranges and dense forests to reach Perak’s northwestern town of Taiping . Whether it’s a stroll in Taiping Lake Gardens or a boat tour to Kampung Dew to watch the dazzling dance of fireflies on the river, this little town oozes tranquility. It’s also worth a trip to the historic Antong Coffee Mill – Malaysia’s oldest coffee mill still follows the traditional method of roasting beans over a wood fire to produce a unique smokiness.

Kuala Lumpur to Desaru Coast

singapore road trip to malaysia

Drive time: 4 hours

Set in southeastern Johor, Desaru Coast was once a quiet coastal town – until the luxury resorts started taking notice of its charms. These days, it’s a glam getaway for folks craving the suite life, with private plunge pools and prime beach access at the likes of Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas and One&Only Desaru Coast . Sun and sea aside, you’ll also have a splashing good time at the  Adventure Waterpark with over 20 wet and dry thrills to tackle.

Your four-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur will take you past Johor , so why not stop over to fuel up? Drop by the local hotspot The Toast in Taman Mount Austin for Nanyang coffee, along with their signature egg mayo toast and nasi lemak. Or grab a seat at the popular Restoran Gim Cheng in Taman Daya for a spread of over 60 kinds of handmade dim sum, including the crowd-favourite mango shrimp rolls.

Kuala Lumpur to Malacca

singapore road trip to malaysia

Drive time: 2.5 hours from KL to Muar, 1 hour from Muar to Malacca

If you’re after a dose of heritage and culture, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Malacca is undoubtedly your cup of tea. But first, we recommend a day’s detour to Muar . The buildings of this historical town come splashed with stunning larger-than-life murals, including Julia Vochkova’s Loving Sisters and Sabek’s  The Bond . Also worth seeing is the Sultan Ibrahim Jamek Mosque – a breathtaking mosque splashed in dreamy white and sky blue, blending elements of British colonial and traditional Malay architecture.

Next, head to the heritage hotbed of Malacca , where you can explore Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple: the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple . Another striking attraction, the Malacca Sultanate Palace , is a reconstruction of the 15th-century royal palace that stood in the same spot; not only is it wrought entirely of wood, not a single nail was used in its construction. For a suitably heritage-style stay, opt for the Timez Hotel , where each individually designed suite is a nod to Malacca’s history.

Road Tripping in Malaysia

Planning  your next road tripping adventure? UOB Cardmembers can a variety of travel deals, with up to 25% off accommodation bookings with Agoda , Booking.com and Expedia or up to 5% off savings on travel bookings with Klook . If you’re looking to rent a car to explore your destination, get up to 20% off Avis Car Rental or Budget Car Rental . Last but not least, don’t forget the Travel Insurance !

Don’t have a UOB Card? Find the right credit card for all your needs here .

Top Image: One&Only Desaru Coast

jolene-hee

Deputy Editor

Jolene has a major sweet tooth and would happily eat pastries for all meals. When she’s not dreaming of cheesecake, she can be found in the dance studio, working on craft projects, or curled up with a good book.

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Singapore to Malaysia drive

Singapore to malaysia road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Singapore to Malaysia. If you're planning a road trip to Malaysia, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start at Singapore drive for about 1.5 hours

12:24 pm   Yong Peng stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:24 pm drive for about 48 minutes

2:12 pm   Muar stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:12 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours

11:00 am  leave from KLIA2 drive for about 51 minutes

11:51 am   Batu Caves stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:51 pm drive for about 48 minutes

1:39 pm   Fraser's Hill stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:39 pm drive for about 54 minutes

3:33 pm  arrive at Malaysia

day 2 driving ≈ 2.5 hours

Singapore to Malaysia questions

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Where should I stop along the way?

Yong Peng Muar KLIA2   (3 mentions) Batu Caves   (11 answers)     Petronas Towers   (9 mentions)     Petaling Street   (7 mentions)     Aquaria KLCC   (4 mentions)     KL Sentral   (4 mentions)     KL City Park   (4 mentions)     questions about Batu Caves:         Best free things to do in Batu Caves? Fraser's Hill

What are some things to do in Malaysia?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Malaysia. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

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Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Malaysia.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Malaysia to Singapore drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Singapore to Malaysia . Or get a full Singapore to Malaysia flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Singapore well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Singapore!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Singapore to Malaysia

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

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10 underrated road trip destinations in Malaysia from Singapore with scenic natural wonders, delicious eats & more

singapore road trip to malaysia

As Singaporeans, many of us are no strangers to weekend getaways to popular destinations like Johor Bahru and Cameron Highlands . But why not shake things up with these 10 hidden gems that have long been overshadowed by the likes of Penang and Malacca , and try going on these road trips in Malaysia that will offer you a different experience?

From delicious food to stunning natural sights, there’ll be plenty to see and do at each and every one of these exciting destinations! 

1. Muar, Johor

singapore road trip to malaysia

First up on the list is every foodie’s favourite, the Royal City of Johor, Muar . 

The name Glutton Street alone is bound to pique your interest. As the oldest culinary attraction in Muar, this street is known for its otak otak , fried oysters , pork satay , and more. 

The deep, aromatic flavours of Sai Kee’s 434 coffee is also something you can’t miss. ZZ Satay Warisan also offers incredible satay for breakfast — it feels as though everyone in this city is crazy about food.

road trips malaysia

For those looking to have a taste of the city’s history and culture, how about going down the Muar Cultural Walk where rows and rows of murals make for Instagram-worthy photos? At night, the street becomes even busier with attractive performances, cultural shows and street vendors.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 2 hours 15 minutes

2. Kuala Rompin, Pahang

road trips malaysia

Kuala Rompin is a nature retreat with an all-in-one package. Being so close to the river, sea and rainforests, you can visit friendly Orang Asli villages , gorge on the freshest seafood , admire the picturesque “mirror” Lanjut Beach and marvel at the ethereal blue lake, Tasik Biru .

road trips malaysia

Most notably, it is located right at the borders of Malaysia’s second largest national park, the Endau-Rompin National Park . It is home to some of the oldest rainforests in the world, as well as majestic waterfalls , serving as the perfect place for urbanites looking to immerse themselves in nature.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 2 hour 45 minutes

3. Bentong, Pahang

road trips malaysia

Rather than Genting , how about visiting its underrated neighbour that has hot springs, a stunning waterfall and serene forest retreats? The Bentong Hot Springs , Chamang Waterfall , Kechara Forest Retreat and Lentang Forest Recreational Park is your go-to for a relaxing trip.

If you happen to be there on Saturday, check out Bentong Walk , a night market in a historic district featuring live performances and captivating art.

road trips malaysia

Surprisingly, Bentong also has a Japanese Village that has kimonos for rent, a teahouse and Tatami Spa!

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 4 hours 50 minutes

4. Sekinchan, Selangor

road trips malaysia

Sekinchan can fulfil all your dreams of feeling like a drama protagonist — run through the endless paddy fields with the blue sky at the back and listen to the sound of the rice plants rustling in the wind.

But make sure to visit before the harvesting seasons, ideally during mid-March to May and during mid-September to November , or else you won’t be seeing lush green fields but empty barren ones instead.

road trips malaysia

Don’t forget to make a wish at the Sekinchan Wishing Tree , or chill at the Pantai Redang Beach before touring the Bagan Fishing Village for some tasty seafood.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 20 minutes

5. Kuala Selangor, Selangor

road trips malaysia

Road trips in Malaysia can’t do without the dreamy Kuala Selangor . This seaside town is best appreciated at night, when you can go hunting for fireflies and watch them light up the night sky. It is also only at night when you can witness the mesmerising “ Blue Tears ” as Selangor River glows in splendid blue hues.

singapore road trip to malaysia

The magic continues with Sky Mirror where shallow waters become a reflective surface, mirroring the sky and creating illusions of walking on water.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours

6. Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor

road trips malaysia

Locals call it the KKB, but please do not mistake this town for a certain crude local slang. Kuala Kubu Bharu is a popular weekend spot that is known for outdoor activities and adventure amongst Kuala Lumpur locals.

road trips malaysia

Boasting incredible views of rolling hills and waters from the summit of Bukit Kutu and at the Sungai Selangor Dam , it offers an ideal escape from the bustling cities. Nature-lovers looking for some exercise can take on one of the many waterfall hiking trails at Kuala Kubu Bharu , like the Lata Medang Waterfall and Chilling Waterfall trails.

If lazing around in the sun sounds like a better option, picnic at Taman Tasik Millennium and enjoy views of the lake and hills in comfort.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 10 minutes

7. Sungai Lembing, Pahang

road trips malaysia

Sungai Lembing is an old tin mining town that has turned into a haven for outdoor and nature enthusiasts. Like Kuala Kubu Bharu, Sungai Lembing is also home to beautiful waterfalls and panoramic sights — they literally have Bukit Panorama and Sunrise Hill , titular hills that live up to their very names.

singapore road trip to malaysia

The Rainbow Waterfall and Berkelah Waterfalls ( it has seven tiers! ) are definitely not to be missed, as well as this hidden Hindu cave temple with a gigantic nine metre long Buddha statue in Gua Charas , tucked away in a grand limestone massif more than 400 million years old.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 30 minutes

8. Gopeng, Perak

singapore road trip to malaysia

Also a former tin mining town, Gopeng has caves that have spelunking enthusiasts lining up at their doorstep. Similar to Gua Charas, Gua Tempurung is also around 400 million years old, although it is one of the longest caves in Malaysia with three enormous chambers and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

singapore road trip to malaysia

Want something brighter on your itinerary? Why not pay a visit to Cameron Highlands’ cousin, the Gaharu Tea Valley ? It’s less misty, and you can get a clear view of the majestic mountains and verdant tea plantations.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 51 minutes

9. Taiping, Perak 

singapore road trip to malaysia

Taiping is constantly overshadowed by Ipoh even though it is the second largest city in Perak. Rich with colonial history and architecture, it’s the perfect destination for history buffs. They have the oldest museum ( Perak Museum ), the oldest hill resort ( Bukit Larut ), the oldest zoo in Malaysia ( Taiping Zoo ) and markets that date back hundreds of years ago.

singapore road trip to malaysia

Another of their most famous attractions is the Taiping Lake Gardens , which is Malaysia’s first park! 

Not to mention, Taiping is only an hour away from a spectacular waterfall, the Lata Titi Dua , also known as Air Terjun Sungai Tebing Tinggi ( don’t get it confused with Lata Tebing Tinggi which is also in northern Perak ). Road trips in Malaysia

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 6 hours 52 minutes

10. Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu 

road trips malaysia

While this destination might be the furthest, it undoubtedly is the most rewarding, with unparalleled scenic views and unique island hopping opportunities. The allure of road trips in Malaysia lies in being able to see sights that can’t be found in Singapore. Drive along Federal Road 3 which traces the coastline, offering you incredible coastal views throughout the entirety of your road trip.

You’ll be spoilt for choice no matter whether you’re exploring the city or the outdoors. Enter the iconic Crystal Mosque located at the Islamic Heritage Park , which is made out of steel, glass and of course, crystals . Browse through exotic ingredients at the Central Market and learn about the Chinese community at Teck Soon Cultural House .

road trips malaysia

You can take the ferry out to various islands like Redang Island with its white sandy beaches, snorkel at the Perhentian Islands , or explore the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, Kenyir Lake .

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 7 hours

Embark on a new flight-free experience and start packing for these road trips across Malaysia!

For more lifestyle updates like this, subscribe to our Telegram channel at @confirmgood .

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  • Family Holiday
  • Country and City

8 Essential Tips For An Enjoyable 'Road Trip' In Singapore With Your Family

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Faruq Senin  •  Oct 22, 2020

Ever since the pandemic, most of us have been spending more time with our family. Now that we’re still unable to travel abroad, it’s time to take the chance and go on a ‘road trip’ around Singapore with your loved ones! Singapore might be small but there are still plenty of places that you have yet to uncover. 

We’ve rounded up these 8 essential tips to survive a drive with your whole family! When the borders open, you’ll most likely want to go on a road trip to Malaysia and drive out to Johor Bahru (or further) for a short getaway. That's when these tips will come in handy too!

1. Get a spacious car

singapore road trip to malaysia

Having more space will always make your ride more comfortable, especially if you have a family or growing kids! If you’re going on a road trip with both kids and the elderly, you’d want to make sure that they have enough space. That’s why Mitsubishi Outlander is perfect for the occasion! 

Your family can sit comfortably in an enhanced 7-seater SUV (sport utility vehicle) that has a spacious and quiet interior as well as flexible seating arrangements. If you’re driving with kids, the Outlander comes with ISOFIX (an internationally standardised car seat fitting system which secures the child seat to the car) so parents can drive with a peace of mind. 

singapore road trip to malaysia

Your loved ones will also like the third-row seats that are comfortably padded and can be reclined with four settings to choose from, ensuring an enjoyable ride all the way. There are air blowers at the second-row seats everyone can keep cool, which is perfect for the resident “Snooze Master” who always manages to squeeze in a nap whenever they’re on the road ? Now, you can explore more of Singapore in comfort!

P.S. A drive to Bollywood Veggies (an organic farm) would make the perfect weekend family trip!

#HHWT Tip: Want to experience the Mitsubishi Outlander for yourself? Register for a test drive at the Alexandra showroom ! You’ll also receive an incentive worth $40, including a Starbucks gift card and more (limited to first 50 sign-ups). 

2. Let the navigator sit in the front seat

singapore road trip to malaysia

Even in a small country like Singapore, the roads aren’t as straightforward as they seem, especially if you’re unfamiliar with an area. It’s easy to miss a turn or possibly even take a longer route to reach your destination. That’s why it’s important to assign “The Navigator” for your road trips. Yes, we’re referring to that one person who always hogs the front passenger seat ? 

Whether or not that person is good with directions, there’s nothing to worry about as the full colour 7-inch multimedia touch screen LCD information panel in the Mitsubishi Outlander will help you out! With easy-to-operate controls and high-contrast colour, navigating for your road trip is a breeze. 

P.S. Planning your route to uncover Singapore? Check out these 8 hidden gems that look like they’re overseas !

3. Decide on the entertainment beforehand

Music always makes a drive more bearable, especially if you’re stuck in bad traffic with the entire family. Instead of fretting about the traffic, why not have a karaoke session with your family for some quality bonding time? Decide on the entertainment beforehand so you won’t need to think about what song to play next. 

Create a playlist of your favourite songs and instantly connect your mobile phone using Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™ on the Mitsubishi Outlander’s infotainment system. With the handy LCD touchscreen, you can listen to music easily or even make calls and get directions from your phone. Once the music is all set, the Karaoke Kings in your family will be belting out those high notes in no time! Whether or not it’s music to our ears, it’s a different issue ?

4. Pack everything you need for your road trip

singapore road trip to malaysia

Driving to Marina Barrage or Changi Beach for a picnic? You’d want to bring a picnic mat, various sports equipment or even your kids’ bicycles. For those travelling with young kids, you’d know that it’s always useful to have everything on hand - from prams to strollers, extra clothes/shoes, toys and more. Having a large boot capacity will be useful for your road trip! 

singapore road trip to malaysia

The Mitsubishi Outlander’s configurable seats and flexible seating arrangement will definitely give you the added space you need for your drive. You can use the 60:40 split configuration and fold down the seats to accommodate both your items and family members. If you need even more space, you can fold down both the second and third-row seats to store your bulkier items.

#HHWT Tip: Register for a test drive on the Mitsubishi Outlander at the Alexandra showroom and check out its foldable seats and large boot capacity! You’ll also receive an incentive worth $40, including a Starbucks gift card and more (limited to first 50 sign-ups).

5. Keep things clean and organised

singapore road trip to malaysia

We feel you! For families with toddlers, it might seem like an uphill task to keep things clean and organised in the car. Let’s not forget, if you’re married to a “Gym Rat”, there might also be extra shoes, clothes, shaker bottles and protein bars lying around in the car boot. 

But trust us, keeping your car free of clutter and trash can greatly improve your mini road trip experience with your family ? Be sure to bring plenty of plastic bags to keep your trash for those snacks you’ll be having along the way. Wet wipes are also essential for cleaning any mess or spills that might occur. 

If you’re planning to bring some toys or games for your kids, make sure you have a bag or box to store them. Make use of your car’s in-cabin storage spaces like the seat pockets, drinks holder and compartments to keep things neat and tidy. You can also invest in a car boot organiser to keep your personal belongings neat and tidy. By keeping your car organised, we guarantee that your drive will be a pleasant experience. 

6. Ensure everyone’s safety

singapore road trip to malaysia

As with any drive, the safety of everyone is the most important aspect. Before your drive, make sure you check that your car’s tyres, battery, engine oil and lights are in good condition. If you’re travelling with babies or toddlers, check that your car seat is appropriately installed and that everyone else has secured their seatbelts. 

The advanced safety features of the Mitsubishi Outlander will give you peace of mind. For one, the elevated driver’s seat gives you a better view of the road and the car has 7 SRS airbags so you’d have protection from all sides. The electric parking brake with auto hold, Active Stability Control (ASC) and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) are also added features to ensure that you drive as safely as possible. 

7. Plan your itinerary ahead for longer road trips

singapore road trip to malaysia

Whether you’re planning a mini road trip in Singapore or to Malaysia when the borders open, plan your itinerary ahead of time! This gives you a better idea of how long you’d need to get between destinations. This way, there won’t be a situation where you fit too many things in your itinerary for the day. It also helps if your whole family is kept in the loop of your plans so that everyone will be on the same page and there’ll be lesser chances of miscommunication. 

It is also worth asking yourself if you’re planning a leisure drive with scenic views or just getting from one point to another? For example, if you’re driving in Malaysia in future, you’d probably want to get on the North-South Expressway for a quick drive. But if you’re looking for scenic views, you might want to go on a scenic beach or kampung road instead. That’s why planning ahead will ensure that you have a smooth driving experience!

P.S. Check out these 10 Malaysian road trips you’d have to take at least once in your life!

8. Schedule regular rest stops

singapore road trip to malaysia

Unlike in Singapore, driving to your destination in Malaysia (when we’re able to) might take hours and that’s why scheduling regular rest stops is super important. Thankfully, there are plenty of R&R (rest and relax) areas along Malaysia’s highways so you can stop to take a break, have a meal and stock up on snacks and water. 

singapore road trip to malaysia

Plus, if you’re travelling with kids, they might grow restless on longer drives. Some of you might also bring your elderly parents on road trips so rest stops are important for toilet breaks and for them to move around. Not to mention that rest stops are also important for you, the driver, as you can take a break before continuing your journey. If there are a few drivers in your family, this will also be a great time to switch drivers ?

With these 8 useful tips, now you’re ready to survive a drive with your whole family! From getting a spacious car to ensuring everyone’s safety, navigating your way and more, your drive will definitely be a more comfortable experience ?

#HHWT Tip: Register for a test drive to experience the Mitsubishi Outlander for yourselves! Sign up for it at the Alexandra showroom and receive an incentive worth $40, including a Starbucks gift card and more (limited to first 50 sign-ups).

This article is brought to you by Cycle & Carriage Mitsubishi. 

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    1. Desaru Road Trip. Best For: Family getaways. Desaru is a town that is 100 km east of Johor Bahru. Once very popular in the 1980s, it has since taken a backseat in terms of hype. But this beach and resort destination is still a popular choice for a suburban getaway for families. On the way to Desaru:

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    This is something you won't get to do in Singapore, so seize the opportunity here for a blast of good old-fashioned fun. Duration of drive: 2 hours. Geolocation: 1.324923, 103.440975. 3. Muar's multi-coloured streets. Source.

  20. Need Ideas For A Malaysian Road Trip? Here's What ...

    Need Ideas For A Malaysian Road Trip? Here's What We Suggest For The June Holidays! | Articles | Motorist Singapore. Lifestyle. Need Ideas For A Malaysian Road Trip? Here's What We Suggest For The June Holidays! Published by Josh Hou on 27 May 2022. Updated on 3 Jun 2022.

  21. Road trip

    8 min read. Wondering where to take a vacation with the kids this coming holidays? How about a road trip to Malaysia? Here are 6 great driving destinations (besides your usual Lego land/Hello kitty land). A road trip is great fun for the family. There are no restrictions to your travelling plans, and you can make pit stops whenever you like.

  22. Road Trip To Singapore & Malaysia: 8 Driving Tips For A Family Trip

    Planning a road trip to Singapore and Malaysia? Here are 8 tips for an enjoyable drive with the family!

  23. What happens if you drive to Malaysia from Singapore without a VEP

    Driving from Singapore to Malaysia without a VEP can lead to numerous complications, including fines, vehicle impoundment, and legal issues. The fine for not having a VEP is RM150 (approximately SGD 50) for each day the vehicle is in Malaysia without a valid permit. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it's crucial to obtain the necessary ...

  24. Bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur

    Standard buses are a great budget-friendly option, while luxury coaches offer a more comfortable and luxurious experience. Tickets for bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur bus services will cost you in between SGD 30 to SGD 88. Buses are the best option for this route as they are cheaper and more convenient. Any bus from SG to KL takes 5 to 6 hrs ...

  25. Malaysians Travelling To Singapore By Bus & Motorcycle Can Start Using

    Malaysians travelling to Singapore will soon enjoy quicker immigration clearance at the Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complexes starting 1 June onwards. This is thanks to the trial run for the Quick Response (QR) code for the immigration clearance system at both land border crossings in Johor.

  26. [UPDATED] Easing Causeway congestion: Malaysians travelling to

    JOHOR BARU: Malaysians travelling to Singapore can begin using Quick Response (QR) codes for Immigration clearance at the Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complexes at the Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) and the Sultan Abu Bakar Complex (KSAB), starting June 1.