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All the Best Things to Do & See on a Road Trip from Singapore to Malaysia (in Just 5 Days!)

| Last Updated: August 2024

As a Singaporean, it’s crazy to think that an international trip only takes about a 45-minute drive. I’m referring to Malaysia, of course.

A road trip from Singapore to Malaysia is surprisingly easy and doesn’t require a travel agency to book flights for you.

So, if you’re thinking about hitting the road for a cross-country escapade, here’s a 5-day road trip itinerary with all the best things you can do and see on the way! 

How long is the drive from Singapore to Malaysia?

The drive from Singapore to Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, takes about 5 hours. The first stop in this itinerary is Johor Bahru, which is only 45 minutes away from Singapore’s city centre. 

Day 1: Johor Bahru

Make a pitstop at LEGOLAND Malaysia for colourful fun

From legolandmalaysia 

Address: 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri
Contact Details: +60 7597 8888
Operating Hours: Monday, Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours 
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 199
  • Children and Seniors: RM 169 (Children below 3 years old can enter for free)

Website

First up on the itinerary is a pitstop at Johor Bahru, a city lovingly nicknamed “the gateway to Malaysia.” When I think of Johor Bahru, I immediately think of LEGOLAND Malaysia and its exhilarating rides across LEGO-themed zones. 

There are over 40 rides in the park alone, with popular ones like the LEGO NINJAGO, Dino Island, and the Great LEGO Race being must-dos. You can spend as much time as you want here to get your fill of thrill! 

Tips: 

  • You can purchase tickets online ahead of your visit to skip the queues at the entrance. Just make sure you buy tickets from the official LEGOLAND booking site and not from other unofficial third-party sellers. You may risk being scammed with fake tickets! 
  • There are free parking promotions available for select ticket holders, and the lucky ones can only park their cars at Parking Zones 1 and 2. Disabled visitors are encouraged to park at Zone 1.

Enjoy city views at Skyscape

From skyscapejb 

Address: Level 34, Menara JLand Johor Bahru City Centre, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak
Contact Details: +60 111538 7537
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:30 am to 4:00 pm
Average Duration: 15 to 30 minutes
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 28
  • Children and Seniors: RM 18 

Website

Before making your way out of the city, make sure to drop by Skyscape for a photo-finish backdrop against the skyline. This towering skyscraper has a rooftop made of glass, giving the illusion that you’re floating in the air! 

Your ticket to the deck includes access to the six other rooftop attractions here, such as a mini theatre, LED tunnels, the Sky Bridge, a VR studio, and an interactive floor game. 

The best views are at sunset, so make this your last stop in the city before moving to your next destination on the road trip! 

Tips: 

  • Entry to the rooftop deck is limited per day and is subject to weather conditions. If you paid your tickets via cash at the counter, you are eligible to get refunds in case the weather conditions aren’t in your favour. 
  • It’s a lot cheaper to buy tickets online than at the counter. Buying tickets online also guarantees a spot in the deck, which is limited between 35 to 50 people at a time (even less, depending on foot traffic).

Where to Eat in Johor Bahru

Where to Stay in Johor Bahru

Day 2: Arrival at Malacca City and Dutch Square Tour

Take a walk in the past at the Dutch Square

From gratiamikha

Address: Banda Hilir, 75200
Operating Hours: Open 24/7 
Average Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour 
Pricing: Free

The first stop in Malacca City is Dutch Square, or Red Square, an iconic tourist spot in this UNESCO Heritage City. The red-bricked walls make it hard to miss while driving.

Built in the 1600s by the Dutch during the Spice Trade, the square’s historic landmarks, including the Malacca Clock Tower, Victoria’s Fountain, and Christ Church Melaka, are beautifully preserved and painted vibrant red.

Take your time taking photos around the block and don’t forget to pose in front of the large fountain in the centre! 

Tips: 

  • If your feet are weary from exploring the square, you can catch a trishaw for a ride around the area. Some trishaw drivers also offer tours for a small fee. As a popular tourist spot, the square is bustling with visitors throughout the day. 
  • To enjoy a quieter experience, I recommend arriving in Malacca early, between 7:00 am and 9:00 am, when the square is less crowded.

Take pictures around the centuries-old Portuguese fort A Famosa

From shanti.says

Address: Jln Parameswara, Banda Hilir 
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Average Duration: 15 minutes 
Pricing: Free

Did you know that Malacca was also colonised by the Portuguese? One famous Portuguese spot in the square is A Famosa, an old fortress that’s said to be older than the Dutch square itself! 

The fort is nearly a century older than some of the colonial buildings in the city, making it one of the oldest European structures in Asia. Although much of the fortress is in ruins, you’re free to roam around and take pictures inside and on top of the historic site. 

Tips: 

  • A Famosa includes an uphill trek to a site that once housed a colonial-era church. The climb involves ascending approximately 90 steps, with only the area near the entrance being accessible to wheelchairs.
  • At the hill’s summit, where the church once stood, lie the tombstones of Portuguese settlers, missionaries, and merchants. Visitors should show respect by avoiding leaning on, sitting on, or stepping on these tombstones.

Marvel at a Portuguese ship at Muzium Samudera 

From imagesofmalaysia

Address: Jalan Merdeka, Banda Hilir
Contact Details: +60 6282 6526
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Average Duration: 30 to 45 minutes
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 20.00 (locals), RM 26.00 (foreigners)
  • Children: RM 15.00 (locals), RM 18.00 (foreigners)

Website

Ever wondered what a colonial trade ship looked like up close? At Muzium Samudera, you can see a life-sized replica of a Portuguese trading vessel, the Flora de la Mar, which sank in the 1500s.

The museum showcases the city’s maritime activities and trading history. Observing it up close provides a vivid impression of the enormous vessels that once docked at the city’s shores, and is an excellent way to conclude your first day in the historic city.

Tips: 

  • Your ticket also grants you access to the Royal Malaysian Maritime Museum, so be sure to visit to make the most of your purchase!
  • Professional photographers are available in the museum area to take photos of you next to the ship, but be aware that their services come with a high fee. If you’re on a budget, it’s best to decline politely.

Learn about Peranakan history and culture at Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum

From babanyonyamuseum 

Address: 48-50, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock
Contact Details: +60 6282 1273
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:15 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour to 2 hours 
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 18.00
  • Children: RM 13.00
  • Tour without activity pack: RM 24.00

Website

The last stop on your first day in the heritage city is the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. This preserved Peranakan shophouse was owned by the same family for generations and houses lots of Chinese Malay artefacts, furniture, and decor. 

It’s one of the best places to learn about the Peranakans that settled in Malacca and one of the best surviving examples of the community’s ornate architecture and design. 

Tips: 

  • The museum offers family tours with activities for children under 12. Each activity pack, which costs RM 10 per child, includes access to the house’s collection of traditional Peranakan games. Make sure to inform the staff members that you wish to avail of this extra service!
  • Be ready to remove your shoes in certain parts of the house as a sign of respect.

Day 3: River Cruise, Jonker Walk, and Safari Tour

Explore the vibrant Jonker Walk

From visit.melaka

Address: Jalan Hang Jebat
Contact Details: +60 6333 3333
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Average Duration: 1 hour
Pricing: Free

Also known as Jalan Hang Jebat Street, this lively thoroughfare is located in Chinatown, just across the Malacca River from Dutch Square. The best way to spend your last day in the city is by exploring this vibrant street, so take as long as you want! 

There are many Peranakan shophouses lined along the street, setting up shops for tourists to buy local fare, souvenirs, and other knick knacks. This street is also the best place to get great deals on snacks, so stick around if you’re hungry. 

Tip: 

  • The street is busy every day, especially in the late afternoon, so drop by early in the morning to get first dibs on snacks and souvenirs. Don’t be afraid to haggle for better bargains, too!

Tour the city on a boat with the Melaka River Cruise

From visit.melaka

Address: Jalan Graha Maju Aras 9, Graha Maju Building
Contact Details: +60 6281 4322
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Average Duration: 45 minutes
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 25.00 (locals), RM 30.00 (foreigners)
  • Children: RM 15.00 (locals), RM 25.00 (foreigners)

Website

Going on a Melaka River Cruise is another quintessential activity that deserves a spot on this itinerary. Just like the Singapore River Cruise, this activity takes you around the best spots in the city on a traditional bumboat. 

The 45-minute route goes through Dutch Square and ends at the Rhythmic Water Fountain. Other popular sites on the route include Kampung Morten, Eye on Melaka, Jonker Street, and the bustling Chinatown. 

Tips: 

  • You can buy tickets at the quay counter, but note that they only accept cash.
  • I suggest buying your tickets on the website to guarantee your slots, but keep in mind that they are only valid on the date of purchase. Purchase them at least a few hours before your time slot to prevent missing out on tickets.

Get up close and personal with friendly animals at A Famosa Safari Wonderland

From afamosaresort

Address: A’famosa Resort, Jalan Kemus / Sempang Ampat, 78000 Alor Gajah
Contact Details: +60 6552 0888
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 55.00
  • Children: RM 45.00

Website

The very last stop in this tour is actually a 45-minute drive away from the centre of Malacca, and it’s the A Famosa Safari Wonderland. This is a safari-style zoo located inside the famous A Famosa Resort. 

You can visit this zoo on your way to the next city on this road trip because it’s about halfway to the next destination. Here, you’ll get up close and personal with several safari animals like giraffes, cheetahs, lemurs, hippos, and more! 

Tips: 

  • Book tickets online ASAP because they tend to sell out fast.
  • I recommend eating a heavy lunch or a lot of snacks before heading inside the park if you want to save extra cash. The food they sell inside is pricey, so plan your meals ahead!

Where to Eat in Malacca

Where to Stay in Malacca

Optional Detour: Short stop at Seremban 

From gdtjns

Address: Jalan Taman Bunga, Taman Tasik Seremban
Contact Details: +60 6602 0674
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 am to 4:30 pm
Average Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 10.00
  • Children: RM 5.00

Website

After getting a good night’s rest at your chosen hotel in Seremban, I recommend visiting the Royal Gallery Tuanku Ja’afar, a local history museum dedicated to the Negeri Sembilan Royal Family. 

You’ll find royal artefacts, relics, and a few ornate items from the personal collection of Al Marhum Tuanku Ja’afar, the former Grand Ruler of Negeri Sembilan and former King of Malaysia until 1999. 

Tips: 

  • Good news! There’s free parking within the establishment grounds. They’re subject to availability, though, so I recommend dropping by on a weekday if you can to avoid crowds. 
  • Note that on regular days, the gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday except for important Muslim holidays. Check the website for updates on their operating hours during your visit!

Take a break and enjoy the serene surroundings at Seremban Lake Garden

From pesona_seremban

Address: Jalan Taman Bunga, Taman Tasik Seremban
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Average Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Pricing: Free

Seremban Lake Garden or Taman Tasik Seremban is a manmade lake surrounded by a lush landscaped park that many families visit for outdoor activities and relaxation. It’s also a popular spot for picnics if you prefer that for lunch. 

There are lots of trees around the walking paths that give ample shade to anyone taking a leisurely stroll here. I highly recommend paying this place a visit, even just for a while, to appreciate the quiet and peaceful town vibes. 

Tips: 

  • Parking is free on the park premises, but they tend to fill up by the late afternoon. My best recommendation is to park your car at the Royal Gallery and walk towards the park (it’s just right across!) in case all the slots are taken. 
  • You can actually rent canoes for a small fee from the uncles lounging near the lake. Just approach one of them and ask where you can rent canoes!

Where to Eat in Seremban

Day 4: Arrival at Kuala Lumpur 

Get fantastic views of the city on top of the Menara Kuala Lumpur

From menarakl 

Address: 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P. Ramlee
Contact Details: +60 32331 8080
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 to 2 hours 
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 35.00 
  • Children: RM 17.00
  • Senior Citizens: RM 17.00

Website

After a long drive, treat yourself to scenic views at greater heights atop the Menara Kuala Lumpur. This towering landmark is one of the tallest in the world and offers a plethora of thrilling activities at its top. 

There’s the Sky Box that lets you sit in a glass box with direct views of the city below you, a Tower Walk wherein you literally walk along the edges of the tower, the classic observation deck, and a Sky Deck for al fresco city views way up high. 

Tips: 

  • If you’re feeling hungry, I highly recommend getting dinner at the tower’s revolving restaurant, ARAS Restaurant. Reservation is a must, and if you wish to learn more, check out this page. 
  • I reserved the trip to the tower for a nighttime visit because the views of the city skyline are way better after sunset than in the day, in my opinion!

Relax your muscles after a long drive at Urban Retreat Onsen Spa

From urbanretreatspamy

Address: Lot 2F – 02, 8, Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara
Contact Details: +60 17881 4486
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 to 2 hours 
Pricing: Starting at RM 139.00 per person
Website

For your next stop in Kuala Lumpur, my best suggestion is to get some much-needed relaxation from the long drive from Seremban. Before getting some shuteye, head on over to Urban Retreat Onsen Spa for a relaxing time. 

The spa offers Japanese onsen baths, aromatherapy, deep tissue massage, body scrubs, and more relaxing treatments. The packages are well worth the money and journey, in my opinion, and you’ll be refreshed for another tour the next morning! 

Tips: 

  • The spa regularly offers promotions and discounts on their treatments, especially on massages. Some packages include a 90-minute massage treatment for as low as RM 180 per person. You can also book a couples’ package that is fit for two! 
  • If you’ve never gone on a massage treatment before, the spa offers a first trial promotion on select treatments. Read more about it here!

Day 5: Petronas Towers, Merdeka Square, and Central Market

Make the quintessential trip to the Petronas Twin Towers

From petronastwintowers

Address: Petronas Twin Tower, Lower Ground (Concourse) Level
Contact Details: +60 32331 8080
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 to 2 hours 
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 35.00 
  • Children: RM 17.00
  • Senior Citizens: RM 17.00

Website

If Paris has the Eiffel Tower and London has Buckingham Palace, then Malaysia has the Petronas Twin Towers. The towers are considered the country’s most iconic landmark and are used as its icon. 

That’s why I made it the first stop on Day 5. I recommend spending the whole morning touring the observation deck, SkyBridge, and the gallery dedicated to its structure, history, milestones, and significance to the country. 

Tips: 

  • I recommend booking your tickets to the towers in advance to skip the long queues at the ticket office. Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your allotted time slot in the ticket. Any latecomers will not be entertained. 
  • Note that the towers are open from Tuesday to Sunday and also on select Mondays of the month. Check out this page for more details.

Get a piece of the city’s heritage at Merdeka Square

From kualalumpurcity

Address: Jln Raja, City Centre, Wilayah Persekutuan
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Average Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Pricing: Free 

Merdeka Square is famous for being the location of when Malaysia was first declared independent on August 31, 1957. Aside from the Twin Towers, this 200-metre-long open field is one of the most popular landmarks in the city. 

This is also the site of the world’s former tallest flagpole, standing at 95 metres in height. People come here not just to marvel at the Tudor-inspired Royal Selangor Club, but also to take pictures in front of the big “I Love KL” sign. 

Tips: 

  • Although Merdeka Square is generally busy every day, I find that Sunday afternoons are often the least crowded time to visit. If you can visit the square by that time, I highly recommend doing so to get first dibs on traffic-free photo taking around the block. 
  • While the square and Royal Selangor Club look majestic during the day, it’s also worth paying a visit at night. The building and streets light up with colourful lights, making a great backdrop for photos as well.

Buy all sorts of souvenirs at Central Market

From centralmarketkualalumpur

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Contact Details: +60 130022 8688
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour to 2 hours
Pricing: Free entrance  

The very last stop on his road trip is a shopping spree at Central Market. This historic Art Deco-style market was built in 1888 and has since operated as a major shopping district in the city until today. 

This is honestly one of the best places to get yourself and your family members souvenirs from Malaysia. You’ll find all sorts of items here, from cheesy “I Love KL” shirts to ornate keychains and traditional Batik clothes. 

Tips: 

  • Don’t be afraid to haggle prices in this market. The vendors are open to making deals with you, so long as you’re nice and polite to them! 
  • There is very limited parking inside the market’s own car park, so I recommend parking your car at the nearby Menara Pacific Place Parking or Merdeka Square in case it’s full. The market is only a short walk away! 
  • Buy local fare or snacks from the food stalls inside the market. It’s a 5-hour drive back to Singapore after this stop, so stock up on food in case you get hungry on the road!

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

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