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39 Cool Places to Take a Short Getaway in Malaysia (2024)

Looking for a short getaway in Malaysia that your entire group will enjoy? Here are some unique and fun places to visit!

We lived in Malaysia for almost 18 months and spent a lot of that time exploring the country. I wrote this article to help others based on my own experience researching all the places we wanted to see while we lived there.

I include everything from peninsular Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo, and a variety of Islands you may never have heard of before!

Since we’re already planning a return trip, I’ve been keeping all this updated so I’m ready to see it all when we go back.

Since sharing is caring, I wrote this article to help you plan your own short getaway in Malaysia!

Each of these destinations offers something different and exciting for visitors on a quick trip to Malaysia, so you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy. Let’s jump in!

What is a Short Getaway in Malaysia?

A short getaway in Malaysia is a quick trip that only lasts two to three nights. It can even be a quick staycation Malaysia style.

Depending on your budget and how much time you have, it could be a two-hour or less drive from where you live or it can be a plane flight to another part of the country.

Some short getaways in Malaysia are more adventurous while others offer a more relaxed atmosphere. It all depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation.

No matter what, there’s sure to be a short getaway in Malaysia for families, couples, or any kind of travel group!

If you already know where you want to go and just need some recommendations for the best family resorts in Malaysia , I’ve got you covered on that as well.

Short Getaway in Malaysia Summary

Don’t want to read the whole article? Check out our summary video below that gives you just some of the amazing spots to visit on a quick trip to Malaysia.

Short Getaways Near Kuala Lumpur

All of these places to go on a short getaway in Malaysia are two hours or less driving from Kuala Lumpur . They’re great for travelers on a budget or who have a shorter period of time to get away in Malaysia .

1. Kuala Lumpur City Stay

If you’re really pressed for time or don’t live in KL, Malaysia’s capital city offers some really great options for a short getaway in Malaysia. It’s really fun at Christmastime and New Years , too!

Either spend a couple of nights in KLCC for a KL getaway to enjoy all the tourist opportunities that the city center has to offer or plan time at a local waterpark. There are also some excellent hotels with rooftop pools in KL, too!

If you stay in KLCC, then KLCC park, with its enormous playground and fabulous splash pad, is a quick stroll away during your KL short getaway.

Aquaria KLCC and Petrosains Science Center are also excellent activities to consider. Don’t forget to visit the Twin Tower Skydeck, too!

KLCC Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in KLCC are: ✔️ Mandarin Oriental KL 💰💰💰 ✔️ Grand Hyatt KL 💰💰 ✔️ Corus Hotel 💰

KLCC Activities to Try:

• Aquaria KLCC
• Petronas Twin Towers Skydeck
• Le Petit Chef Interactive Dinner Night
• Ride the Hop On, Hop Off Bus

Southern Kuala Lumpur Hotels and Activities

South of KLCC, we love to spend a couple of days at Sunway Lagoon . This theme park offers water activities, a small zoo, amusement park rides, and a year-round haunted house.

Sunway Lagoon is also adjacent to Sunway Pyramid Mall, which offers its own variety of activities from bowling and archery to ice skating and escape rooms! There’s even a TGV movie theater with IMAX.

Little Man told me the area around Sunway Lagoon is the best staycation Malaysia offers!

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying at Sunway Lagoon are: ✔️ Sunway Pyramid Hotel 💰💰💰 ✔️ Raintree Resort Suites 💰💰 ✔️ GG Hotel Bandar Sunway 💰

Restaurants to Try during your short getaway in KL:

• Hungry Tapir
• Bluebird Cafe
• Slappy Cakes Sunway Pyramid
• Bife Charcoal Steakhouse
• Eat in a River at BBQ Lamb KL Kemensah

2. Fraser’s Hill

Also known as Fraser’s Hill, Bukit Fraser is a colonial hill town with excellent bird-watching and good hiking. Located in Pahang, it’s a great place to spend a short getaway.

There are plenty of things to do, including hiking and picnicking at Fraser’s Hill Lighthouse. The Pine Tree Trail and Hemmant trail are fairly easy hiking paths.

Plus, you can also visit Deer Park to see different types of deer or go to the Jeriau Waterfall.

Fraser’s Hill Hotels & Activities

👉 For staying in Fraser’s Hill, I recommend Shahzan Inn .

Fraser’s Hill Activities to Try:

• Take a Birdwatching Tour
• Go on a Photo Tour
• Visit Deerland Park

Try these restaurants in Fraser’s Hill:

• Green Roses (in the Fraser’s Hill Food Court)
• Tea House Restaurant & Cafe
• Ye Old Smokehouse

3. Genting Highlands

Located just over the state border in Pahang, Genting Highlands is less than an hour’s drive from KL. We loved it as a short trip from KL option!

Despite its proximity to the capital city, the mountains and clouds make it feel like your 2 days 1 night trip in Malaysia is a lifetime away. Because of this, some people consider Genting Highlands the best getaway near KL.

Although Genting Highlands is known for its casinos, there are a lot of kid-friendly activities here as well. You can visit a local strawberry farm to pick your own strawberries and taste assorted strawberry products in the cafe.

In addition, it’s a lot of fun to ride a mountainside cable car and visit the ancient Chin Swee Caves temple. It’s worth paying extra for the glass-bottom gondola so you can see the ground fly past you underneath!

Genting Highlands Hotels & Activities:

👉 Some Genting Highlands hotels I recommend are: ✔️ Grand Ion Deleman Hotel 💰💰💰 ✔️ Swiss Garden Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Resorts World Genting – First World Hotel 💰

At the top of the cable car ride is Resorts World, which has a huge indoor amusement park. Plan to spend an hour or so exploring the complex even if you don’t stay to enjoy the theme park.

Genting Highlands Activities:

• Resorts World Skytropolis Theme Park
• Ride the Skyway Gondola

Restaurants to try in Genting Highlands:

• Cloud View Cafe (our favorite spot!)
• Brew House Genting Permai Avenue
• Sugu Restaurant Claypot Rice

4. Kuala Selangor

Considering its proximity to KL, this is a great short weekend in Malaysia’s Selangor! This is one of the more memorable short trips in Malaysia that we’ve taken. It’s great for a family trip or an adventure with friends.

Kuala Selangor is best known for the Sky Mirror, a natural phenomenon that occurs at low tides. It allows for trick photography so that the water reflects a mirror of your actions. We loved it! In addition, you can take a sunset boat tour to see fireflies at Kuantan Firefly Park as well as scores of eagles along the Selangor River. Plus, you can explore the Sri Shakti Temple and the lighthouse atop Malawati Hill.

Kuala Selangor Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Kuala Selangor for a short trip to Malaysia are: Firefly Villa 💰💰💰 Kuala Selangor Boutique Hotel 💰💰 Hotel Le Shore 💰

Kuala Selangor Activities to Try:

• Sky Mirror photo tour
• Fireflies Night Cruise with seafood dinner
• Eagle-watching boat tour

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Selangor:

• Thyme Taste & Grill
• River View Seafood Restaurant
• Aroma Ikan Bakar

You’ll often find this historic city spelled “Malacca,” which is the English-imposed spelling from colonial times. The correct, Malay spelling is Melaka.

Located in the state of the same name, the coastal city on the Straits of Melaka has a lot to offer.

We actually stayed here for four nights but could have easily enjoyed many of the sights after only staying two or three. Some people even just come for a day trip.

One of the best things to do in Melaka is a river cruise! From seeing the beautiful street art to the water monitors sunning themselves, this one is enjoyable for all ages.

For a short getaway in Malaysia to Melaka, you should visit the submarine museum and the prison museum as well as some of the historic ruins and the Shore Skytower. The Shore Aquarium is pretty great, too!

Melaka Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Melaka are: ✔️ Doubletree by Hilton 💰💰💰 ✔️ Rosa Melacca 💰💰 ✔️ Shore Hotel & Residences 💰

Melaka Activites to Try:

• Tour Historic Melaka
• Visit the Shore Sky Tower
• Explore the Upside Down House

Pro Tip : Make time to ride a trishaw ! Their LED lights glow like beacons after dark so you can’t miss seeing them near the A’Famosa fort.

Restaurants to Try in Melaka:

• Baboon House
• Pak Putra Restaurant
• Munchkins Cafe Melaka

6. Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a waterfront town located in Negeri Sembilan. It’s best known for its overwater bungalows at Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson. However, there are also some great things to do there with kids during a quick getaway.

Families will enjoy the PD Ostrich Show Farm as well as the Port Dickson lighthouse, which offers a stunning panorama of the jungle and the ocean.

The town also has the Army Museum, which has a variety of retired military vehicles, as well as the historic Kota Lukut fort.

Just south of town are the Blue Lagoon and Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve, which offer excellent swimming opportunities during your short weekend getaway.

Port Dickson Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Port Dickson are: ✔️ Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson 💰💰💰 ✔️ Grand Lexis Port Dickson 💰💰 ✔️ Corus Paradise Resort 💰

Port Dickson Activities to Try:

• Go on a Sunset Cruise
• Visit the Ostrich Farm
• Ride a Banana Boat & Go on a Picnic !

Restaurants to Try in Port Dickson:

• Mutiara Seafood Village
• Lucky King Bun
• Gim Men Teppanyaki

7. Bukit Tinggi + Bentong/Raub

Bukit Tinggi is located in Pahang and is a great place to go on a short getaway. There are plenty of things to do, including visiting the Bukit Tinggi Botanical Gardens and going on a jungle trek.

You can visit the Japanese Village, where they can learn about Japanese culture and try traditional food. Plus, Colmar Tropicale is a French-themed village that’s ideal for people who want to experience something different.

You can also, visit the Lembah Anai waterfall, go to Bentong to enjoy one of the hot springs resorts, or Raub to go gold panning.

Bukit Tinggi Hotels & Activities

👉 When staying in Bukit Tinggi, I recommend the New York Studio at Selesa Hill Homes .

Bukit Tinggi Activities:

• French Town Tour
• Colmar Tropicale Castle

Restaurants to Try in Bukit Tinggi, Bentong, and Raub:

• Fantasy Valley Restaurant
• Kitchen & La Boulangerie Cafe
• Bee’s Food and Coffee

8. Kuala Kubu Bharu

Kuala Kubu Bharu (KKB) is located in Selangor and is a great place to spend a short getaway.

There are plenty of things to do including hiking to the Sungai Selangor Dam for a lovely scenic overlook and visiting the Sungai Chiling Waterfalls.

You can also visit the massive playground at Taman Tasik Millenium or take a dip in the Taman Arif hot springs.

Just sitting outside at night to watch the stars is also a lot of fun. You may find that two nights here isn’t quite enough.

Kuala Kubu Baru Hotels & Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in KKB are: ✔️ Hillside Batu Retreat 💰💰💰 ✔️ Greenland Boutique Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Hilltop Hotel 💰

Kubu Bharu Activities to Try:

• Go White Water Rafting (Ages 10+ only)
• Check out the Sungai Selangor Dam

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Kubu Bharu:

• Teng Wun Bakery (eat some Kaya puffs!)
• Dataran Kuala Kubu Bharu
• Sun Sun Nam Cheong

9. Sekinchan

Sitting on the coast of Northern Selangor, Sekinchan is reminiscent of Balinese rice paddy fields. You can even visit a working rice farm as well as the Paddy Gallery museum about the history of rice farming in Malaysia.

The Sekinchan Wishing Tree is located right on a great beach for swimming, so you can take a dip after tying your wish to the tree.

Families will also enjoy the huge playground at MSekin Wonderland, as well as the colorful structures the campus has to offer.

Sekinchan Hotels & Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Sekinchan are: ✔️ Villa Chee 💰💰 ✔️ A+ Plus Boutique Hotel 💰

Sekinchan Activities to Try:

• Tour a Rice Paddy
• Make a wish at the wishing tree

Restaurants to Try in Sekinchan:

• Ah Ma House Seafood Restaurant
• Ninja Private Kitchen (Eat a sunset dinner overlooking a rice paddy!)
• Daiyum Daisek

10. Hulu Langat

Hulu Langat is located in Selangor and is a great place to spend a short getaway. There are plenty of things to do, including hiking, picnicking, and visiting the Hulu Langat Falls.

You can also visit the Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest or take a dip in the Sungai Gabai Waterfall. The Kem Herba recreational camp is also a lot of fun.

Hulu Langat Hotels & Activities

👉 When staying in Hulu Langat, I recommend Homestay Cikgu Zedi although you can also go camping at Hammocks by the River .

Hulu Langat Activities:

• Go fishing!
• Visit the Sungai Gabai Waterfall
• Walk through the Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest

Restaurants to Try in Hulu Langat:

• Zest Restaurant
• Elda’s Farmhouse
• Latest Recipe

11. Janda Baik

Janda Baik is located in Pahang and is a great place for taking a short getaway in Malaysia. From the unique accommodation options to the expansive coffee farms that offer tours , there are plenty of things to do during a short getaway.

You can also visit the BOH Tea Garden, go on a nature walk along the Janda Baik River, or visit the Tampit Waterfall. Pack sturdy shoes for hiking!

Janda Baik Hotels & Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Janda Baik are: ✔️ Le Maneh Retreat (private villa) ✔️ Canopy Villa Tampik Valley (glamping resort with breakfast) ✔️ eRYA by Suria (traditional hotel)

Janda Baik Activities to Try:

• BOH Tea Garden
• Tampit Waterfall
• Janda Baik River walk

Restaurants to Try in Janda Baik:

• The Cafe at Ebum Villa
• Farm on a Hill (an excellent farm-to-table dining experience!)

12. Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib

Bukit Jugra is located in Selangor and is a great spot to spend a Malaysian short getaway.

There are plenty of things to do in this nostalgic old town, including hiking and picnicking during a visit to the Bukit Jugra Lighthouse.

Pantai Morib is a nearby beach that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. You can also visit the Kampung Cempaka Putih to see traditional Malaysian houses.

Pantai Morib Hotels & Activities

👉 For staying in Bukit Jugra or Pantai Morib, I recommend Gold Coast Morib International Resort .

Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib Activities:

• Go Tandem Paragliding
• Relax on Morib Beach

Restaurants to Try in Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib:

• She Ba Judgra
• Restoran Wan Ikan Bakar

13. Batang Kali

Located in Selangor, a short getaway to Batang Kali is a perfect short vacation in Selangor for those who want to spend time outdoors in beautiful landscapes.

Teratak Tok Alang river rafting is great for kids and those who don’t love the water because the river isn’t too deep or too rough. It’s a perfect place to spend two or three nights.

The beautiful Sakyak monastery and Siamese Temple is located there, as well, and is a fun place to tour. You can also visit Hoho Farm, a local farming cooperative, for a day of picking fruits and vegetables.

Batang Kali Hotels & Activities

👉 I suggest One Home Hotel for staying in Batang Kali.

Restaurants to try in Batang Kali Selangor:

• CCK Restaurant
• WK Restaurant
• Ken Kee Restaurant

Short Getaways Around Peninsular Malaysia

You’ll have to drive further than two hours from Kuala Lumpur to get to these towns and cities, but they’re well worthwhile. You can even take a bus or the train to some of them if you don’t have a car.

14. Belum Rainforest

This rainforest in northern Perak offers a variety of activities, from guided nature hikes on Banding Island or Royal Belum State Park to exploring Temenggor Lake.

It’s a great short getaway in Malaysia for anyone who enjoys the outdoors!

I recommend you stay at one of the eco-resorts in the area for the best up-close nature experience. The Belum Rainforest resort even has a star trail for night hiking!

Belum Rainforest Hotels and Activities

👉 Belum Rainforest Resort has been called one of the best nature retreats in Malaysia. However, Belum Adventure Camp and Belum Eco Resort are also excellent!

There aren’t really any restaurants in this area, so all or most of your meals will likely be at your resort’s on-site restaurants.

👉 This Belum rainforest package includes your hotel stay, meals at the hotel, and round trip airport transfers!

15. Cameron Highlands

Located on the Perak border of Pahang, the Cameron Highlands are known for nature hiking and strawberries!

Most strawberries grown in Malaysia come from this area, and you can tour one of the many farms and even pick your own to take home!

Note : Our strawberries never made it past the hotel room the next day!

You can take also nature hikes in the Mossy Forest as well as visit the Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm. Cactus Valley is an expansive plant nursery that grows and sells both cacti as well as assorted fruits.

If you visit on a weekend, make sure to check out the Golden Hills Weekend Market. This outdoor shopping extravaganza also has some great street food!

In addition, the Time Tunnel Museum is very popular as are the Robinson Waterfalls and Taman Eko Rimba Parit Falls.

Cameron Highlands Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some Cameron Highlands hotels I recommend are: ✔️ The Lakehouse 💰💰💰 ✔️ Century Pines Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Zetter Suites 💰

Cameron Highlands Activities to Try:

• Search for the famous and rare Rafflesia flower
• Tour local farms and pick your own strawberries
• Hike the Mossy Forest

Restaurants to Try in Cameron Highlands:

• Highland Steamboat Cheese & Grill (the local farm tour above stops here for dinner!)

16. Johor Bahru

We lived in JB for six months in 2020, so we go to explore it pretty fully during that time!

Families would be remiss if they didn’t spend a short getaway in Malaysia at Legoland ! From rides and STEM classes to a waterpark and aquarium, there’s enough to fill several days here.

👉 Buy your Legoland Malaysia tickets in advance, to avoid lines at the gate!

Plus, if you stay at the Legoland Hotel you also get access to a Lego-themed pool reserved only for hotel guests.

In addition to Legoland, the surrounding area also has a great board game cafe at Eco Botanic as well as EnerG X Trampoline Park at Sunway Big Box mall.

For outdoor nature activities, the Heritage Forest and the Edible Park are in nearby Medini Iskandar.

Johor Bahru Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend staying near Legoland are: ✔️ Legoland Malaysia Resort (on-site midrange resort) ✔️ Ramada Meridin Johor (walkable midrange hotel) ✔️ Meridin Medini Apartments (walkable vacation rental)

Restaurants to Try near Legoland:

• Bricks Family Restaurant
• Secret Recipe
• Warung @ Edible Park

Ipoh is known for its street culture, specifically street art and street food, as well as white coffee. You should definitely go there to explore all those things. However, there’s so much more to do!

Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat offers a variety of relaxing thermal pools for adults and kids alike to enjoy. It’s a luxurious way to wind down after a busy work week.

Sam Poh Tong Temple and Perak Cave Temple are both located nearby. They’re fun for sightseeing!

Families also love Sunway Lost World of Tambun theme park. It’s great for a single-day visit, or even a couple of days if you have more time.

Ipoh Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in Ipoh: ✔️ The Haven All Suite Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Sunway Lost World Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Xcape Tambun 💰💰

Ipoh Activities to Try:

• Take a Heritage Tour of Ipoh
• Visit an Orangutan Sanctuary
• Relax with a Banjaran Hot Springs Day Pass

Restaurants to Try in Ipoh:

• Plan B (Ipoh)
• Sun Marpoh Restaurant
• Fish and Chips by Bareeseta

18. Taiping

Not to be confused with Taipei in Taiwan, this city in Perak offers a lot of unique things to do for a short getaway in Malaysia. The Perak Museum and the Taiping Zoo Night Safari are incredibly popular activities.

However, the Taiping Lake Gardens are also a lot of fun and offer beautiful views to relax and enjoy.

One of the more unique things to do in Taiping is touring the Spritzer bottling plant, then enjoying their on-site eco-park and playing mini-golf.

Taiping Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in Taiping: ✔️ Sentosa Villa 💰💰 ✔️ Knight Alley Hotel 💰

Taiping Activities to Try:

• Go on a Firefly Night Tour
• Support the Orangutan Island Foundation
• Brave the Taiping Suspension Bridge

Restaurants to Try in Taiping:

• Restoran Mr BBQ
• Ansari Famous Cendol
• Yut Sun Restaurant

19. Cherating Beach

Cherating is located on the Northeast coast of Terengganu state and has excellent surfing. Kids and adults alike can take lessons here if you’ve never done it. If surfing isn’t your thing, don’t worry!

You can also visit the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary, relax on Cherating beach, or explore the Kemaman Recreation Park. Plus, you can even go firefly-watching by boat on the Cherating Mangrove River!

Cherating Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for visiting Cherating Beach: ✔️ Royal Chulan Cherating Villa 💰💰💰 ✔️ Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa 💰💰 ✔️ Residence Inn Cherating 💰

Cherating Activities to Try:

• Go on a Night Cruise to See Fireflies
• Watch for Sea Turtles (late May to late August only)
• Enjoy a Mangrove Eco-Tour

Restaurants to Try in Cherating:

• Don’t Tell Mama Beach Cafe
• Ombok Cherating
• Cherating Beach Bar

20. Desaru Beach

Also located on the eastern coast, but on the southern tip of Johor state near Singapore, Desaru is a great place to spend a short getaway in Malaysia.

While the beach is (of course) one of the more popular things to do here, there is so much more!

From the Desaru Ostrich Farm to the Desaru Fruit Farm , there are many agricultural activities to enjoy here. We spent an entire day just at the fruit farm, including an amazing farm-to-table lunch and an ATV ride.

If you aren’t a beach or farm person, check out Adventure Waterpark Desaru. They offer pools and waterslides for everyone to enjoy!

Desaru Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend at Desaru Beach are: ✔️ Anantara Desaru Coast Private Villas 💰💰💰 ✔️ Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast 💰💰 ✔️ Amansari Hotel Desaru 💰

Activities in Desaru to Try:

• Explore Tide Pools on the beach
• Cruise the Sedili Kecil R
• Adventure Waterpark Desaru

Restaurants to Try in Desaru:

• Nelayan Seafood by the Coast
• Sea.Fire.Salt

Enjoy a 100-Year-Old Kampung House as well as some amazing waterfalls in this small town in central Perak. There are several museums here talking about the history of the area.

There is also a massive tree plantation here, called Tea Valley. You can tour the facilities to learn not only about the area’s agriculture but also to see some amazing viewpoints.

Just south of Gopeng is Tempurung Cave, one of the longest caves in Malaysia. You can explore several kilometers inside, which has some amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Gopeng Hotels and Activities

👉 Some accommodations I recommend for staying in Gopeng are: ✔️ Dhotel (traditional hotel) ✔️ Tokmat Glamping Resort (high-end camping) ✔️ Rocky Farm Ipoh (farm stay experience)

Gopeng Activities to Try:

• Go waterfall trekking
• Enjoy River Tubing
• Orang Asli Heritage & Cultural Experience

Restaurants to Try in Gopeng:

• Kristal Jade Seafood Restaurant
• Idamsa Cafe
• Miera Kitchen

22. Taman Negara

Taman Negara is a national park in northern Pahan. It was established in 1938 and means “national park” in Malay. Taman Negara is one of the world’s oldest deciduous rainforests. It’s estimated to be over 130 million years old.

When visiting Taman Negara, you can explore the canopy walkway among the treetops as well as the Gua Telinga cave system. You can also take adventure excursions on the Lata Berkoh rapids.

Or experience the tropical rainforest by going birdwatching or jungle trekking as well as enjoying a river cruise along the Tahan River. 

Taman Negara Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Taman Negara hotels: ✔️ Multiara Taman Negara Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Taman Negara River View Lodge 💰💰 ✔️ Danz Eco Resort 💰

Taman Negara Activities to Try:

• Enjoy a Taman Negara tour
• Relax along the river and watch wildlife

Restaurants to Try in Taman Negara:

• Taman Negara Floating Restaurant
• Family Restaurant Taman Negara
• Seri Multiara Restaurant

23. Kuala Sepetang

This small city in Perak is known for eco-tourism. The most popular activity here is tours of the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, where you can also enjoy seeing eagles and other wildlife.

Tours can be done by boat or on one of the walking paths.

Some wildlife guides also offer dolphin spotting tours, which are very popular, too. And you may also enjoy touring the local charcoal factory to see how it’s made.

Kuala Sepetang Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend the Happy 8 Retreat for staying in Kuala Sepetang.

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Sepetang:

• Xin Seafood Restaurant
• Lian Thong Restaurant
• Restoran Tepi Sungai

24. Jungle Railway of the East Coast

The Jungle Railway of the East Coast is a great activity for all ages. It starts in Tumpat and ends in Gemas. Fly into and stay overnight in Kota Bahru, next to Tumpat, and watch the sunset Pantai Cahaya Bulan.

The journey takes about seven hours. You can enjoy the scenery and learn about the history of Malaysia.

When arriving at Gemas, stay overnight at Awanmulan so you can hike Brogas Hill before heading home the next day.

This is a great activity because it is relatively affordable and it is a unique experience. In addition, there are several stops along the way where you can get off the train and explore different towns.

👉 Stay at PCB Beach Resort in Kota Bahru and The View Hotel in Sengamat, nearby Gemas. Or you can have a taxi take you 90 minutes to Melaka.

If you don’t want to get off the train for lunch, because you do have to wait for the next one to come by and pick you up again, bring some snacks or a picnic to eat as you enjoy the window views.

Short Getaways in Malaysian Borneo

Whether you’ve seen it all on the peninsula or just want a unique adventure, Malaysian Borneo delivers!

25. Kota Kinabalu

The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu (KK), is a gateway to climbing Mount Kinabalu. It’s also home to rainforests, wildlife, beaches, and coral reefs. You may find that 2-3 nights here isn’t enough.

From the Mari Mari Cultural Village and handicraft market to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar and Manukan Island Marine Reserve, there are many activities to do on a short getaway here.

Pro Tip : Stop by the I Love KK sign at the waterfront for a fun pic!

Little Man really enjoyed the musical fountain at Tanjung Aru Perdana Park as well as the Aquarium and Marine Life Museum. If you have time left, make a trip to the Poring Hot Spring complex.

Kota Kinabalu Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels when staying in Kota Kinabalu: ✔️ Le Meridien KK 💰💰💰 ✔️ Shangri-La Rasa Ria 💰💰 ✔️ Hotel Grandis 💰

Kota Kinabalu Activities to Try:

• Visit Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey, AND Sun Bear Sanctuaries
• Klias River Cruise with Fireflies
• Explore Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Springs !

Restaurants to Try in Kota Kinabalu:

• Brass Monkey Cafe
• Yee Fung Laksa
• Pete’s Corner

26. Kuching

Kuching is next to Bako National Park, the oldest national park in Sarawak. It’s an easy day trip from Kuching, although the only way to access the park is a 20-minute boat ride from the village of Kampung Bako.

Millions of years of erosion of the sandstone have created a coastline of steep cliffs and stretches of white, sandy beaches.

Wave erosion at the base of the cliffs has carved many of the rocks into fantastically shaped arches and columns.

In addition, animal lovers will enjoy a visit to Kuching’s cat museum and to the Semenggoh Nature Preserve, where you can book a tour to see wild orangutans!

Kuching Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Kuching hotels: ✔️ Cove 55 Damai Beach 💰💰💰 (outside Kuching city) ✔️ The Waterfront Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Imperial Hotel 💰

Kuching Activities to Try:

• Bako National Park Day Trip
• Sarawak Cultural Village Tour
• Satang Island Day Trip

Restaurants to Try in Kuching:

• Kids Cafe Metrocity
• Chilled Out!
• Sunny Hill Ice Cream

27. Sandakan

This city on the northern coast of Sabah offers unique opportunities to see a variety of wildlife including orangutans, turtles, monkeys, and sun bears.

There’s also a Rainforest Discovery Center that teaches you about fragile rainforest ecosystems.

You can either go on a jungle trek or a river cruise into the jungle to see them in the wild or you can visit a few sanctuaries for rescued animals that can’t be released back into the wild.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, and Turtle Islands National Park are all located in or very near Sandakan.

Sandakan Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in Sandakan: ✔️ Sabah Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ D North Star Hotel & Spa 💰

Sandakan Activities to Try:

• Private Full-Day Tour of Animal Sanctuary Visits
• Sandakan Heritage Walking Tour
• Overnight on Selingan Island to watch sea turtles

👉 Want to see all the best wildlife Sandakan has to offer? Book this two-night jungle getaway !

Restaurants to Try in Sandakan:

• English Tea House & Restaurant
• Harbour Bistro Lodge
• Balin Roof Garden Bistro

28. Gunung Mulu National Park

Located next to the country of Brunei, in Northern Sarawak, Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s famous for its caves and karst formations in a mountainous equatorial rainforest setting.

You can even visit Deer Cave, the largest cave on earth. Families who spend a short getaway in Malaysia at this national park will certainly not be disappointed!

In addition to cave expeditions, you can explore multiple waterfall formations including Latak Waterfall and Eastern Julan Waterfall. Make sure to include a trip to the top of the Mulu Tree Top Tower, for exquisite views of the rainforest.

Gunung Mulu Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Gunung Mulu hotels: ✔️ Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa 💰💰 ✔️ Benarat Lodge 💰

Restaurants to Try in Gunung Mulu National Park:

• Good Luck Cave’fe Mulu

Short Island Getaways in Malaysia

Many Malaysian islands are overlooked in favor of Thailand or Indonesia, but they shouldn’t be! Here are my top picks if you want a fabulous island experience in Malaysia.

29. Langkawi Island

Langkawi is off the coast of Perlis, at the northern edge of Malaysia along the Thailand border. It sports the same sort of beautiful jungles and pristine beaches for which the southern Thai islands are well known.

Your biggest challenge in Langkawi will be choosing what activities to exclude during your short getaway in Malaysia. This large island is also well-suited for a longer trip.

I recommend staying at one of the resorts with private pool villas but there are also some amazing family-friendly resorts there as well.

You’ll find many things to do here, including the Langkawi Sky Bridge and Langkawi Skyway Cable Car. These options both offer excellent views of both the island and the ocean.

You can also visit Langkawi Underwater World or Langkawi Wildlife Park and go snorkeling or scuba diving in Pulau Payor Marine Park when you aren’t relaxing on Cenang Beach or Tanjung Rhu Beach.

Telaga Tujuh Waterfall is also a lot of fun!

Langkawi Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Langkawi hotels : ✔️ Ritz-Carlton Langkawi or St. Regis Langkawi 💰💰💰 ✔️ Berjaya Langkawi or Pelangi Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Adya Hotel Langkawi or Sri Embun Resort 💰

Langkawi Activities to Try:

• Kayak through Mangroves
• Go island hopping through the archipelago
• Explore the Langkawi Geopark

Restaurants to Try in Langkawi:

• The Fat Frog
• Pia’s the Padi
• Kaka Western Food

30. Penang Island

Penang Island is off the coast of Penang state, on the western coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Penang Island is a great place for a short getaway in Malaysia.

Many people have a hard time deciding on Penang vs Langkawi .

The island has plenty of things to do, especially George Town, including visiting the Penang National Park, going on a jungle trek, and visiting the Batu Ferringhi Night Market.

You can also visit the Penang Butterfly Farm or take a dip in the ocean at Monkey Beach. In addition, visit Kek Lok Si Temple and Fort Cornwallis for some interactive history adventures.

Penang Hotels and Activities

👉 In addition to splurging on a Penang hotel a with private pool , I recommend these hotels in Penang: ✔️ Macalister Mansion 💰💰💰 ✔️ Hard Rock Hotel Penang 💰💰 ✔️ Shangri La Golden Sands Resort 💰

Penang Activities to Try:

• Go on a Food Tour
• Cool Off at Escape Penang Waterpark
• Find all the best Penang Street Art

Restaurants to Try on Penang Island:

• Nasi Kandar Line Clear
• New Lane Hawker Centre
• Sungai Pinang food court (for some delicious street food!)

31. Tioman Island

Last but certainly not least, Tioman Island is a wonderful short getaway in Malaysia.

There are a lot of fun things to do on the island. Our friends got scuba certified there and claim it’s the best scuba diving they’ve done.

People who aren’t into scuba can go snorkeling to also explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Tioman Island. You can also visit the Turtle Hatchery and learn about these amazing creatures.

For land activities, take a hike through the jungle and discover hidden waterfalls. You can also relax on one of the many pristine beaches.

The best part of Tioman Island is that there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. And, at the end of the day, you can all relax in your comfortable hotel room or villa.

Tioman Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying on Tioman Island are: ✔️ Berjaya Tioman Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Juara Mutiara Resort 💰

Tioman Activities to Try:

• Get SCUBA certified
• Visit the Turtle Hatchery

There are also many great restaurants on Tioman Island that you’ll love on a short getaway in Malaysia. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Tom’s Place (seafood)
• Fong Lye (Chinese)
• Ali’s Roti Canai (Indian)

32. Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are islands off the eastern coast of Terengganu. They’re a quick flight for a short getaway from KL in Malaysia.

The two main islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, but there are a few uninhabited smaller islands as well.

Scuba diving here is reputed to be some of the best in Malaysia. However, there are seemingly endless beaches to explore for those who aren’t certified.

The Alunan Coral Project is run by Alunan resort on the southern end of Perhentian Kecil. It focuses on preventing and reversing coral bleaching in the island’s reefs. You can volunteer there if you contact them in advance.

Perhentian Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for your stay in the Perhentian Islands: ✔️ Bubu Perhentian Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Mimpi Perhentian Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Berhat Perhention Resort 💰

Perhentian Activities to Try:

• Kayak the Terengganu
• Volunteer at Alunan Coral Project
• Learn to scuba dive

Restaurants to Try in the Perhentian Islands:

• Crocodile Rock Bistro
• Ewan’s Restaurant
• Keranji Beach Cafe

33. Pangkor Laut Island

👉 Pangkor Laut Island is a privately owned island by Pangkor Laut Resort off the eastern coast of Perak.

The accommodations here are a five-star, luxury resort that guarantees you’ll have a very enjoyable short getaway in Malaysia.

Most people come here to relax and enjoy the beautiful private beaches. However, don’t skip visiting the 17th-century ruins of a Dutch fort on the south end of the island.

The Fu Lin Kong and Lin Je Kong temples are also located on Pangkor Laut and are worth visiting, too.

Restaurants to Try on Pangkor Laut Island:

• Feast Village
• Street Stall Burger (Western & Thai Food)
• Uncle Lim’s Kitchen

34. Lang Tengah Island

Lang Tengah Island is another island in Terengganu that is also connected to the mainland by ferries from Merang.

It has clear blue water and white sand beaches that offer excellent opportunities for families to go both snorkeling and scuba diving.

You can also visit Lang Tengah Turtle Watch, which is a non-profit organization focused on saving Malaysian Sea Turtles.

Plus, you can even volunteer there for a couple of nights. However, do note they offer basic jungle living not a resort experience.

Lang Tengah Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Lang Tengah hotels for your trip: ✔️ Summer Bay Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Sari Pacifica Resort Lang Tengah 💰💰

Restaurants to Try on Lang Tengah:

• Koko Restaurant

35. Redang Island

Located off the coast of Terengganu, Redang Island is the perfect short getaway for families. In addition to relaxing on the beach and playing in the ocean, there are a few other fun things to do on Redang Island.

The Turtle Sanctuary is a great place to learn about the different types of turtles that call Redang Island home. Depending on the season, you can even help release baby turtles into the ocean!

In addition, the Terengganu Marine Park is a beautiful place to explore since there are many different types of fish and coral to see.

You can also go snorkeling or diving in the park. It’s easiest to go with a guided tour.

Redang Island Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for a short vacation on Redang Island: ✔️ Taaras Beach & Spa Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Sari Pacifica Resort Redang 💰💰 ✔️ Redang de Rimba Resort 💰

The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort has all the amenities one would expect from a high-end resort: a fabulous beach, a kids club, two swimming pools, and a spa.

There are also assorted on site activities and you can also enjoy the many restaurants and bars at the resort.

Restaurants to Try on Redang Island:

• Redang Moon
• Pelangi Bistro
• Kayu Manis Restaurant & Bar

36. Rawa Island

Rawa is a relatively small, private island off the eastern coast of Johor which means it’ll be a very quiet short getaway in Malaysia. There are no proper roads, only a few walkways.

One side of the island is a beach covered with white sand, while the other side has a rocky vertical cliff.

There are many sea and land creatures such as fish, squid, octopus, Malayan sea eagles, and reptiles.

Also blacktip reef sharks can be found feeding in the sea off Rawa. Rawa’s waters are clear and you can see an abundance of corals when snorkeling.

Pro Tip : Ask your resort about Jellyfish season before booking, so you don’t try to swim when it’s unsafe.

Because there isn’t much infrastructure here, you’ll only be able to eat meals at one of the two resorts on the island: Rawa Island Resort or Alang’s Rawa. Bring your own snacks if you’re worried about liking the resort food.

37. Kapas Island

Kapas Island is located just north of Marang in Terengganu. It has a tropical jungle, crystal clear water, white sand beaches, and coral reefs in the surrounding waters.

Reachable by ferry from Marang, the island is promoted as a “diving and snorkeling paradise”.

You can spend your short vacay in Malaysia on Kapas Island for a rustic beach escape or stay in Marang while taking day trips to Kapas.

When you need a break from the beach and snorkeling, take a hike to Bukit Singa on the northern tip of the island. It’s not very steep so most anyone can do this pretty easily. Wear sturdy shoes, not flip-flops!

Kapas Island Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for a Kapas Island short vacation in Malaysia: ✔️ Turtle Valley Resort (on Kapas) ✔️ OYO Hotel Pelangi (in Marang)

Restaurants to Try in Marang:

• D’Rhu Bayu Seafood Restaurant
• T’Kafe Cosmopal Family Restaurant
• Rhu Muda Chicken Chop Corner

If you stay on Kapas island, there isn’t much infrastructure there besides the hotels so you’ll be eating your meals at one of them.

38. Carey Island

Located in Selangor, just outside of KL, Carey Island is actually accessible by car from peninsular Malaysia. Kelanang and Tanjung Piai beaches are excellent for a weekend of relaxation and sun.

However, you will also enjoy visiting the Mah Meri Cultural Village and exploring Isana Bandar Palace. They’re great interactive learning opportunities for all ages.

In addition, you can climb to the top of the Bukit Junga lighthouse for lovely views of the Straits of Melaka as well as visit the Jugra Intitu Museum, which is in a converted colonial police station.

Carey Island Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in or near Carey Island on a Malaysia short trip: ✔️ Amverton Cove Golf & Island Resort 💰💰 (the only hotel on Carey Island) ✔️ The Canvas Hotel 💰 (across the river from Carey Island)

Restaurants to Try on Carey Island:

• Daifuku Japanese Restaurant
• I Suka Restaurant
• Burger Warisan D’Gazebo

39. Sibu Island

Located off of the eastern coast of Johor, not far from the Singapore border, Sibu Island is an excellent short trip in Malaysia. There is very little infrastructure there. However, there are a couple of resorts with meal-inclusive options.

Sea Gypsy Resort is wonderful a short getaway in Malaysia because it offers daily activities from hiking and boogie boarding to tree climbing and a home-made waterslide into the ocean.

There’s even a kids club with a separate kids dinner from 5-10 pm so adults can enjoy a proper meal and social time in the bar.

The bar offers a wide variety of board games and books so you can entertain yourself, too. It’s a lovely short trip to Malaysia from Singapore!

Note : We spent Christmas 2020 here on a 3 days 2 night trip in Malaysia, and it was magical.

In addition to the resort activities, you can hike to the southern tip of the island, go snorkeling, and even go scuba diving.

David and I did a Discover Scuba Dive but Little Man was too young, so one of the other scuba instructors took him snorkeling 1:1.

Pro Tip : The hotel will pick you up at your address in Malaysia (even in KL) and drive you to the Johor jetty and then by boat to Sibu Island.

👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!

Final Thoughts on a Short Getaway in Malaysia

Whether you want a short vacay city escape, a beach break, a short escape jungle adventure, or something else entirely there are a bunch of opportunities for a unique short getaway in Malaysia.

A Malaysia getaway offers diverse experiences, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage.

With this list, there’s definitely no more wondering where to go in Malaysia for short trip! They’re also great spots for your best staycation in Malaysia.

Fun Fact : If you took one of these short getaways in Malaysia per month, it would take over three years to do them all!

For just one country, there are countless ecosystems to explore in Malaysia. That’s probably one of the reasons the country has stolen our hearts!

Did we miss including a short getaway in Malaysia on this list? Contact us to tell us about it!

Author: Brodi Cole

Brodi Cole is a full-time digital nomad who travels the world with her family. She made the switch to blogging and content writing after spending more than a decade and a half working as a Human Resources Manager and Director. Since transitioning her family to a digital nomad lifestyle, they've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years! In addition to traveling extensively through Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean, she's also visited Asia, Europe, and South America. She spent most of the pandemic living in Malaysia before living in Mexico for over a year and then driving the Pan-American Highway from the USA to the southernmost tip of Argentina. Brodi is also a freelance SEO writer and editor, sharing her expertise with other companies and bloggers. She has a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management.

Sharing is caring!

Brodi Cole is a full-time digital nomad who travels the world with her family. She made the switch to blogging and content writing after spending more than a decade and a half working as a Human Resources Manager and Director.

Since transitioning her family to a digital nomad lifestyle, they've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years!

In addition to traveling extensively through Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean, she's also visited Asia, Europe, and South America.

She spent most of the pandemic living in Malaysia before living in Mexico for over a year and then driving the Pan-American Highway from the USA to the southernmost tip of Argentina.

Brodi is also a freelance SEO writer and editor, sharing her expertise with other companies and bloggers. She has a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management.

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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.

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!

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary For 4-10 Days

Day 1 – arrive in 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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:

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.

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The best short day trips from Singapore

You don't have to board a plane to escape the bustle of the city when you make these day trips from Singapore

Take a break from city life by leaving our sunny (and hectic) island for not-so-faraway ones that are far more quaint. These day trips within Singapore and beyond provide a breathtaking change of scenery sans airport queues and hours of travelling time.

Cross the Causeway into Johor and other Malaysian towns or jet off to an Indonesian beach resort in Batam or Bintan . Whether you're looking for unexplored hiking spots, the best white coffee in town or authentic cuisine, we've got ya.  These out-of-town spots are perfect for relaxing and refuelling away from the hustle and bustle of Singapore city, coconut (or perhaps, a martini) in hand. Now, let's hit the road. 

RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Johor Bahru  and  the best resorts and villas in Bintan

An email you’ll actually love

Day trips from Singapore

Genting Highlands

This popular hilltop retreat in Malaysia has something for everyone – whether you're heading to the casino or spending the day with your family at the kid-friendly theme parks. 

EAT  Burger & Lobster Malaysia 

Skip the queues at the Burger & Lobster outlets in Singapore and head to the establishment's first Southeast Asia outlet at Genting Highland's lifestyle mall, SkyAvenue. If you have specific dietary requirements, the Genting outlet is also the chain's first halal restaurant. You can't miss the restaurant's signature Chilli Lobster, which is exclusive to the Malaysia outlet. 

DRINK  Powerplant Malaysia 

This Korean jaunt is the place to go to for fried chicken, hot pot, and ice-cold beers – all while vibing to the live music every night. 

DO  Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park 

Leave your worries at the door and have an exhilarating time at the newly renovated Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park, which has state-of-the-art rides, such as the virtual reality centre with a variety of experiences from Star Wars, to Wreck-it Ralph and Ghostbusters. 

STAY Resort Hotel 

If you're staying the weekend, cosy up at Resort Hotel to be right in the middle of the action. The Mezzanine Deluxe Room is perfect for couples, while the Deluxe Twin room is great if you're travelling with friends. You'll have views overlooking the mountains, too. 

If you do just one thing...  Don't miss the chance to embark on the Awana SkyWay, which takes you up to the peak in just 10 minutes. On the scenic ride up, you get a free stop at the Chin Swee Station, where you can explore the magnificent Chin Swee Caves Temple. 

Once a sleepy village in the valley of the Kinta River, Ipoh has undergone a transformation over the years and is now one of Malaysia's coolest emerging destinations. It evokes a retro-vibe, reminiscent of Kuala Lumpur in the past. 

EAT Restoran Tauge Ayam Lou Wong  Ipoh is known for its hawker fare. One institution popular with both locals and tourists is Restoran Tauge Ayam Lou Wong, where you can find one of Ipoh's delicacies: bean sprouts with chicken rice. 

DRINK  Restaurant Ah Chow  Ipoh is the birthplace of Malaysia's famous white coffee, and you can easily find it in retro cafes scattered throughout the city. Besides the original Old Town White Coffee Shop, check out local favourite Restaurant Ah Chow. Here's a tip: Ask for the "secret weapon" menu option, their kopi o kosong – which is essentially white coffee prepared with a hint of alcohol. 

DO Ulu Geroh Rafflesia Trail 

Trek the Ulu Geroh Rafflesia Trail, located a little way outside of Ipoh in the village of Ulu Geroh in Gopeng. Besides the largest flower in the world, you will also chance upon rubber plantations, durian orchards, and quaint local villages. However, take note that to trek along the trail, you will need a Semai Orang Asli guide from the village. 

STAY Sekeping Kong Heng Hotel One of the first boutique hotels in Ipoh that sparked its new identity, Sekeping Kong Heng Hotel takes over a preserved three-storey neo-classical building. Don't skip the eponymous famous coffee shop on the ground floor, serving up amazing coffee and some of the best local dishes in town.  

If you do just one thing...  Explore Ipoh's historic laneways, such as Concubine Lane, for its street art and culture precincts. Ipoh's preserved architecture is a sight to behold, consisting of heritage shophouses with Chinese and British colonial elements – complete with five-foot ways and pretty shutters and tiles. 

If you're looking for an idyllic heritage town to spend a quiet weekend in, the charming and quaint Malacca is only a few hours drive away from Singapore. Rows of shophouses, Peranakan antiques, winding laneways and plentiful of good food at every corner, this town is your dream road trip destination. There's history, heaps of culture, too much food and many happy photo opportunities to be had.

EAT Pak Putra

Despite all the guide books telling you to eat your weight in assam laksa and chicken rice balls, skip the advice and try out Pak Putra, an open-air, open-at-night-only establishment. For the best naan you'll have, amazing Tandoori chicken, and assorted curries, this is a must-go when you're in town.

DRINK The Daily Fix

Blink and you might miss this buzzy cafe located within a gift store. You'll be surprised to find that this is no sleepy, quiet spot. Still, if you do bag a spot, the coffee is the best in town. Rose lattes, ice mochas and the cold-brewed tea (ask the staff to see what's brewing for the day), it's the erfect complement to your short getaway. The kids will love the selection of fluffy pancakes in gula melaka, chocolate chip and more.

DO The Clay House

Here's a different sort of holiday shopping: it's where you take the time to make your own wares to bring home. Drop by the rustic store and pottery studio where you can sign up for a session to get your hands dirty. From sculpting to glazing, you'll be bringing home your own handmade cups, bowls, lamps, aromatherapy burners and more.

STAY 1825 Gallery Hotel

When in Malacca, stay by the river, just so you won't be too far from all the good food and good spots in town.This colonial-style heritage building is located just outside the main Jonker Street area but still close to everything. Rooms are spacious so if you're rooming with the family, there's enough sleeping space for everyone. Splurge on a room upgrade with river views, a balcony and your own personal whirlpool tub.

If you do just one thing... Besides just eating and cafe-hopping, Malacca is huge on its antique stores as well. From Chinese porcelain stools to crystals and gemstones (think agate face rollers and rose quartz stone massagers), batik and fabric stores to rattan furniture shops, it's a different kind of shopping sans malls here in Malacca.

A popular weekend getaway for its famous hawker food, street art, history and culture, Penang is a great pick for a quick getaway from Singapore. Whether you choose to go on a road trip with friends or catch a quick and cheap flight there, the first thing you will surely do when you reach is to go on an eating binge. 

EAT Kafe Khoon Hiang 

When in Penang, you have to try one of the most famous local offerings, char kway teow. Don't think that just because you've tasted the ones here, you've tasted it all. The charred flat rice noodles are tossed with juicy prawns, crunchy bean sprouts and scrambled duck eggs.

DRINK The Canteen At ChinaHouse

When hanging out in a new town on holiday, kicking back with a cold drink in hand and all-around chill vibes are important. At The Canteen, it's all about dressing down and enjoying the nightly live music covering genres from jazz to indie, while sipping on your favourite cocktail.

DO  Penang National Park

If you have had enough of culture and the food, pack your bags and hike the Penang National Park. See the best of Penang's rainforests and beaches in this huge park. Enjoy spectacular views from canopy trails or sink your feet into the pristine sand on the beach. 

STAY Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

If it looks familiar to you, you might recognise it from an important scene in Crazy Rich Asians. The mansion also happens to be a boutique hotel with 18 personalised rooms – and all of the rooms are different and tastefully decorated with 19th-century antiques. 

If you do just one thing... Hunt for murals on the street of Penang. Penang's famous and colourful murals have made for Instagram fodder. There's one on almost every wall so get exploring and remember to snap some pics.

Kuala Lumpur

Leaving the city to another city? Kuala Lumpur it is. There's much to see and do (and eat) in this city that seemingly never sleeps. From suppers in the open air to fancy air-conditioned malls, the familiarity might even remind you of Singapore at times but with a myriad of new adventures waiting for you.

EAT Wong Ah Wah Restaurant

When in KL be sure to make some time for some barbecue chicken wings – possibly the best you'll ever have at this no-frills open-air zi char place at food street, Jalan Alor. While you won't go wrong with the standard dishes like salted egg yolk chicken, braised vegetables and fried rice, it's the chicken that's barbecued right in front of you that is the absolute standout. Brined overnight, the end result is a smoky, salty and just-the-right-amount of oily masterpiece.

DRINK PS150

Have fun trying to find this speakeasy in KL's Chinatown, Petaling Street. Housed in an old shophouse that was once a brother, the space is unassuming, intimate (think In The Mood For Love vibes) and romantic all at once. The drink menu is divided into five distinct eras in the history of cocktails itself: Vintage, Prohibition, Tiki, Disco and Contemporary.

DO Batu Caves

Interestingly enough, one thing to do in KL is to get out of KL. A 30-minute train ride, or 13km from the city is the majestic Batu Caves worth seeing in the flesh. Batu Caves is a limestone hill comprising three major caves and a number of smaller ones. Be prepared to be climbing steps all day and exploring the depths of several caves – remember to bring your cameras!

STAY Alila Bangsar Hotel

You're in for an urban retreat when you book a room at the new Alila Bangsar. City life away from the city will never be this chic. With tasteful and modern decor, an amazing pool with a view, pool-side yoga and impeccable room service, it's great to get away from downtown life once in a while.

If you do just one thing... If sticking to central KL is your prerogative, then all you can is shop and eat to your heart' content. Go mall-hopping along Bukit Bintang and be impressed by the sheer amount of boutiques and shops in a major mall. Ready your cards, you'll be using it lot. When it comes to food, you'll be spoilt for choice with the in-mall restaurants or venture out to Jalan Alor for a taste of hawker life in Malaysia.

Time-travel back to the golden kampung days at the beloved Pulau Ubin, a rustic island off the north-eastern coast of Singapore. Located just a 15-minute boat ride from mainland Singapore, you can realistically explore the whole island (about 10.2 square kilometres) in just a day. 

EAT  Cheong Lian Yuen Coffee Shop

This unassuming dining establishment near the jetty is the perfect place to wind down after cycling or hiking around the island. Tuck into a mouthwatering selection of fresh seafood with an ice cold beer before getting on the ferry back to the mainland. Popular dishes here are the pig trotter bee hoon, oysters omelette, salted egg sotong and mud crab with black pepper. 

DRINK Ah Ma Drink Stall 

Stop by this iconic drink stall, housed in a distinctive blue structure in Jalan Jelutong, for a fresh coconut. Don't forget to say hi to the friendly Madam Ong Ang Kui, who has been running the stall for more than 20 years. 

DO Soak in everything Pulau Ubin has to offer 

There's plenty to do: whether you choose to cycle its unpaved trails, hike up hills for stunning views of abandoned granite quarries, kayak the circumference of the island, or dust off your binoculars out to watch the kingfishers and bulbul birds that inhabit the tidal flats and mangroves.  For more in-depth info, read our guide to Pulau Ubin  here .   

STAY Set up camp 

While you can't stay in a hotel on Pulau Ubin, you can embrace the island's wilderness and set up a tent at one of the three campsites on the island: namely Jelutong, Mamam, and Endut Senin. Mamam Campsite boasts uninterrupted views of the sea, with Malaysia in the background. 

If you do just one thing... Wander around Chek Jawa Wetlands, one of Singapore's richest ecosystems. A 1.1km boardwalk runs along the coast and mangrove area, giving visitors a chance to get closer to nature. After which, climb up a 20-metre-tall viewing tower for a 360-degree panorama of the island.

Johor Bahru

Cross the causeway via public transport or in the comfort of your car from Woodlands Checkpoint and you'll find yourself in the heart of Johor Bahru. The JB immigration building is directly connected to City Square Mall, where you can find brands such as H&M and Uniqlo priced more affordable, thanks to the strong Singapore dollar. The surrounding area is also home to plenty of cool restaurants and cafés where you can while the day away.

EAT The Replacement – Lodge and Kitchen

Out of all the cafés we've been to in Johor Bahru, The Replacement – Lodge and Kitchen undoubtedly serve the best food. Try the soft shell crab bao and the piping hot churros served with your choice of dip: there's salted caramel, dark chocolate, Nutella hazelnut and salted egg yolk to choose from.

DRINK Bev C

Johor Bahru isn't exactly known for its buzzy bar scene so swap the booze out for some caffeine instead. The house special at Bev C is the espresso ice cube: shots of coffee frozen into ice cubes served with some milk.

DO Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park

Just a half an hour drive from Johor Sentral lies Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park. The family-friendly theme park is home to the Supersurf, a waterslide with six high-speed lanes.

STAY Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru

Conveniently situated within JB Sentral, Doubletree by Hilton makes for the perfect base for exploring the rest of the city. The modern hotel also comes equipped with a swimming pool and gym to work off those calories from all that café hopping.

If you do just one thing... Queue up for buns baked in a charcoal oven at Hiap Joo Bakery. The banana cake at this old-school institution is unbeatable too – we guarantee you won't stop at one slice.

Iskandar Puteri

Home to some of Southeast Asia’s most epic theme parks like Legoland Malaysia and the Hello Kitty Indoor Theme Park, the thriving city of Iskandar Puteri is well worth crossing the causeway for – especially with the kids in tow.

EAT Spice Grill

Leave the touristy eats at the theme parks behind and make the drive down to Puteri Harbour instead. There, you'll be greeted by a host of better options such as Spice Grill, a stylish Indian restaurant that also has Western offerings.

DRINK Rock Bottom Kitchen & Bar

During happy hour, Rock Bottom Kitchen & Bar offers ridiculously affordable alcohol. Think $3 drinks and Bud Light draft, those are some truly rock-bottom prices.

DO Legoland Malaysia

Spend a day (or two) at Legoland Malaysia, the country's first international theme park. Ride the towering roller coasters or immerse yourself in a captivating 4D movie experience. Whichever the case, the impressive park promises to fascinate both children and adults alike.

STAY Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour

Aside from its incredibly convenient location, Hotel Jen at Puteri Harbour also offers a luxe infinity pool overlooking the glistening marina.

If you could do just one thing... Get more for less at Southeast Asia’s first luxury premium brand outlet – Johor Premium Outlets. The retail paradise houses internationally-renowned designer brands like Burberry, Coach and more.

Spellbinding white sand beaches and azure waters render this relatively underrated island the perfect place for a fulfilling getaway. Simply hop on a 30-minute ferry ride from Changi Ferry Terminal to unravel the diverse offerings of Desaru – everything from ostrich farms and fruit plantations to posh golf courses.

EAT Jade Garden Seafood Corner

Treat yourself to a decadent seafood dinner at Jade Garden Seafood Corner – expect succulent lobster and bamboo clams, to name a few.

DRINK Beach Hut

Located within Lotus Desaru Beach Resort, this shack along the coast is a restaurant by day and bar by night. Grab a coconut or beers by the bottle.

DO The Els Club Desaru Coast

The sprawling club consists of 45 holes spread across two world-class golf courses. The stunning Ocean Course offers a range of customisable golf lessons at its academy for both serious golfers and beginners alike.

STAY Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Choose from one of the renowned hotels housed at Desaru Coast – a unique integrated destination resort that spans across a pristine beachfront. In particular, the Hard Rock Hotel entices with “rock star” treatment for vacationers and business travellers alike.

There's something for everyone at Sentosa. Whether you're a high roller looking to make your fortune, a thrill-seeker wanting to scream your heart out on a high-speed coaster, Michelin-star hunting foodie or a marine life enthusiast learning more about our ocean depths, the island has you covered. And if all that sounds a little too much for you, you can always park yourself at one of its three beaches and laze the day away.

Dine at Asia's first Michelin chef showcase experience. Every quarter, a different guest chef takes over the kitchen at Curate to present his or her award-winning menu.

DRINK Tanjong Beach Club

Dig your feet into the sand as you lounge by the beach with a tiki cocktail by Tanjong Beach Club. On Sunday, DJs turn the beachfront into a dance floor from the afternoon 'til late.

DO AJ Hackett

Here's one for the daredevils. Take a leap of faith by jumping from a height of 47m at AJ Hackett, Singapore's first bungy jumping facility.

STAY W Singapore Sentosa Cove

There are plenty of family-friendly hotels and luxe cabana stays on the island but for something sexier, we recommend making the trek out to W Singapore Sentosa Cove. Located in a quieter corner of the island, the hotel is perfect for couples looking for a little privacy.

If you do just one thing... Spend the day at Universal Studios Singapore, home to Battlestar Galactica and other fun rides that get the heart racing.

Take a ferry across the Singapore Strait to the charming Indonesian island of Batam. From serene beaches to an enthralling nightlight scene, this oft-overlooked island makes for a more than a decent getaway. Look past its sleazy reputation to unearth an array of exciting activities unique to the alluring destination.

EAT Golden Prawn 933

Head over to Golden Prawn 933 for a leisurely lunch that guarantees to satisfy. Serving up delectable plates of affordably priced freshly-caught seafood, the renowned restaurant proves that it’s worth the hype. Alternatively, join fellow tourists as they flock to the iconic A&W café for authentic root beer floats – creamy vanilla soft serve atop fizzy root beer.

DRINK Brewsky & Co

Pay a visit to one of the island’s reputable microbreweries. Brewsky & Co has delicious cocktails and great bar games as the cherry on top.

DO Batam Cable-ski Park

If you’re looking for adventure, choose from a variety of exhilarating water sports. In particular, opt to go jet skiing at Batam Cable-ski Park. Prices start from $25 for a one-hour pass but opt for the full-day pass that's priced at $65.

STAY Montigo Resorts The distinctive white and blue colour palette of Montigo Resorts’ façade affords you the luxury of experiencing a slice of Santorini without having to catch the dreaded 17-hour flight. If that wasn’t enough to warrant your stay, the posh villa-style resort boasts an exclusive private pool with unparalleled views of the surrounding Nongsa waters.

If you do just one thing… Relish a fragrant slice of one of Indonesia’s famed traditional specialties, Kueh Lapis – an indulgent layered cake – from the revered Layers Batam. Its range of conveniently located outlets include Nagoya Hill Mall and Batam Center Point.

Long established as an upscale playground for the spendthrift, the idyllic archipelago is spoiled with pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Yet, hidden amidst an abundance of high-end luxury resorts are rustic old-school fishing villages that intrigue with their grit. It’s nice to know that a mere 50-minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal can transport you to a versatile and multi-faceted holiday destination like Bintan.

EAT Nasi Padang

Experience Indonesian-style Nasi Padang in its most authentic form as you tuck into the generous servings at Pujasera Food Centre’s Lamak Basamo or Rumah Makan Sederhana in Tanjung Pinang.

Touted as Bintan’s veteran nightclub, Silk promises a night to remember as you immerse yourself in live band music with a jazzy beverage in hand.

DO Air Adventure

Learn to fly at Air Adventure, a flying club at Lagoi Bay. But if all that sounds a little too ambitious for you then opt for a 20-minute ride on a seaplane that will accord you stunning views of the island. There's even an option to purchase a video recording of your flight so you can take your memories home.

STAY Banyan Tree Bintan

Tucked away in a verdant rainforest, the lavish villas of Banyan Tree Bintan offer breathtaking views of the South China Sea and a tranquil atmosphere. In line with its luxurious setting, hotel staff provide impeccably intuitive service catering to every need and want.

If you could do just one thing… Embark on a rejuvenating eco farm tour conducted by BRC Tours – have a hand at harvesting seasonal crops and relish farm-to-table rojak comprising of house-grown fruits and vegetables.

If you've got a whole weekend

Weekend travel guide: 48 hours in Nusa Penida

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Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

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Are you planning a day trip to Malaysia from Singapore?

If so, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about crossing the Singapore-Malaysia border, and what awaits you once you’re there.

So, grab a cup of tea (or perhaps some Kopi-O, the local Singaporean coffee), and let’s dive in.

Brief Overview Of This Guide

We’ll begin by addressing some essential points, such as understanding the distance and travel time between these two Southeast Asian destinations, along with the legal and visa considerations.

We’ll then examine the best ways to travel from Singapore to Malaysia, and vice versa, discussing the pros and cons of each method.

But what good is a day trip if you don’t know what to do or see once you arrive? We’ll provide an overview of must-see destinations in Malaysia perfect for a day trip. From Kuala Lumpur’s impressive skyline to Johor Bahru’s historical wonders, there’s something for every type of traveller.

We will also delve into Malaysia’s mouth-watering cuisine, unique culture, and must-have souvenirs.

Then, we’ll share some practical tips on currency exchange, cultural etiquette, and internet connectivity, along with health and vaccination requirements.

Finally, as your day draws to a close, we’ll guide you back across the border to Singapore, advising you on what to know about the return trip.

Background Information on Malaysia and Singapore

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of the trip, let’s take a moment to appreciate the unique history and culture of these two nations.

Singapore, a high-tech city-state known for its iconic attractions , multicultural diversity, impeccable cleanliness, and stunning skyline, is a global financial hub. It’s also a renowned destination for foodies, thanks to its rich, multi-cultural food . From hawker centres serving Laksa and Hainanese Chicken Rice to Michelin-starred restaurants, Singapore offers a gastronomic journey like no other.

Just a causeway away, you’ll find Malaysia, a country teeming with vibrant culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. Its capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a bustling metropolis, boasting iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers. Outside the capital, you’ll find idyllic beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lush rainforests, and charming historic towns.

Travelling between these two neighbours, each with its distinct character and charm promises to be an adventure of a lifetime.

Planning Your Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

Before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to have a well-planned itinerary.

In this section, we’ll help you understand the logistics of your trip, the legalities involved, and the best time to visit Malaysia.

Understanding the Distance and Travel Time

Geographically, Singapore and Malaysia share a land and sea border, making the commute between these two nations relatively quick and easy.

However, the travel time greatly depends on your chosen mode of transportation and your intended destination in Malaysia.

For instance, if you plan to visit Johor Bahru, the nearest city in Malaysia to Singapore, it would take you around 30 minutes to an hour via car or bus, excluding immigration clearance time. On the other hand, if Kuala Lumpur is your destination, it will take approximately 5 – 6 hours by car or bus, and around 1 hour by plane.

Keep in mind that these times can fluctuate depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the time it takes to clear customs and immigration.

Legal and Visa Considerations

When it comes to crossing borders, one must not forget the legalities. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Malaysia.

Citizens of many countries, including Singapore, can enter Malaysia for tourism purposes without a visa for stays up to 30 or 90 days. However, immigration rules can change, so it’s always best to check the current visa requirements from official sources or consult with your travel agency.

Additionally, don’t forget to check the latest Covid-19 travel advisories and safety measures. Health protocols and requirements can vary over time, and it’s crucial to stay updated to ensure a smooth trip.

Best Time to Visit Malaysia from Singapore

Being tropical countries, both Singapore and Malaysia are warm throughout the year, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The weather, therefore, may not be a significant factor in deciding when to make your trip. However, being aware of the monsoon seasons might help you avoid heavy rains and potential disruptions to your plans.

Typically, the best time to visit West Malaysia (where Kuala Lumpur and Malacca are located) is between December and February when the weather is drier and cooler. For Johor Bahru, anytime outside the monsoon months (November to February) would be ideal.

However, one of the charms of Malaysia is its year-round festive atmosphere. Various cultural festivals such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and Christmas are celebrated grandly. Aligning your visit with these festivities could add an extra layer of cultural immersion to your trip.

Remember, a well-planned trip is often a successful one. So take your time, consider your options, and gear up for the adventure that awaits.

In the next sections, we’ll dive into the different travel methods and must-see destinations in Malaysia for your day trip.

How to Travel from Singapore to Malaysia

One of the key factors that make a day trip from Singapore to Malaysia possible and convenient is the excellent connectivity between the two countries.

There are several options to consider when planning your trip, each with its unique advantages.

Taking a bus to Malaysia from Singapore is a popular choice for many travellers due to its cost-effectiveness, comfort, and scenic route it offers.

Different Bus Services

There are numerous bus services operating between Singapore and various destinations in Malaysia. Here are a few notable ones:

• Causeway Link : This bus service operates numerous routes between Singapore and Johor Bahru.
• Transtar Travel : They provide luxury coach services from Singapore to numerous cities in Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur and Malacca.
• Konsortium : This is another popular luxury coach operator with various pick-up points around Singapore and multiple drop-off locations in Malaysia.
• Grassland Express & Tours : They offer bus services from Singapore to a variety of Malaysian destinations.

🚍 Book Singapore-Malaysia Bus Tickets Online 🚍

Each service offers different levels of comfort and amenities, from basic air-conditioned buses to luxury coaches with personal entertainment systems and more legroom.

Costs and Travel Time

The cost and travel time vary depending on your destination. For example, a bus trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru can cost around SGD 6 – 15 and take 30 minutes to an hour (excluding immigration clearance time). On the other hand, a bus ride from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur usually takes about 5 to 6 hours and can cost between SGD 30 – 80, depending on the level of luxury you opt for.

Tips and Tricks

• Booking Tickets : You can book tickets online in advance, especially during peak travel periods or public holidays.
• Departure Point : Buses depart from various points in Singapore, including Bugis, Orchard, Little India, and more. Choose the most convenient pick-up location for you.
• Immigration Clearance : Buses will stop at both Singapore and Malaysia immigration checkpoints. Remember to take all your belongings with you as you may not re-board the same bus after immigration.
• Travel Light : If possible, travel light. Not only will this make immigration clearance smoother, but it’ll also be more convenient for you as you navigate through the day.
• Pack Snacks : Pack some snacks and drinks for the journey, especially if you’re travelling to further destinations like Kuala Lumpur.

Remember, the journey is part of the adventure! So sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as you make your way from the vibrant cityscape of Singapore to the diverse landscapes of Malaysia.

Travelling by train offers a unique and enjoyable experience, allowing you to take in the beautiful countryside views at a leisurely pace.

Train Services Available

Currently, KTM (Keretapi Tanah Melayu) is the main train operator providing services between Singapore and Malaysia. There are typically two types of services: the Shuttle Tebrau and the intercity trains.

• Shuttle Tebrau : This is a popular option for those planning to visit Johor Bahru. The service runs multiple times a day between JB Sentral in Johor Bahru and Woodlands in Singapore.
• Intercity Trains : For those planning to travel further into Malaysia, intercity trains can take you to various cities, including Kuala Lumpur and even up to the Thai border.
• Shuttle Tebrau : The journey between JB Sentral and Woodlands takes approximately 5 minutes, making it the fastest land crossing between Singapore and Malaysia. Tickets cost around MYR 5 (< SGD 2).
• Intercity Trains : The cost and travel time for intercity trains depend on your final destination. As an example, the trip from Gemas (the nearest to Johor) to Kuala Lumpur by train can take about 2 hours and 30 minutes and cost approximately SGD 10.
• Advance Booking : Similar to bus travel, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, particularly during the holiday season.
• Arrive Early : Be sure to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure time, as you’ll need to go through immigration clearance.
• Carry Essentials : Carry some water and snacks, especially for longer journeys. Also, remember to keep your passport and ticket within easy reach.
• Enjoy the View : One of the advantages of train travel is the scenic route. Make sure to grab a window seat and enjoy the journey as you pass through plantations, traditional villages, and rolling landscapes.

Travelling by car from Singapore to Malaysia offers flexibility and convenience, particularly for those who prefer setting their own pace or are travelling with family or a group of friends.

Car Rental Services

Several car rental companies in Singapore allow you to drive their vehicles into Malaysia. Among them are popular international brands like Hertz, Avis, and Budget, as well as local companies like Hawk and Drive.sg. Do note that some companies may charge an additional fee for cross-border trips.

🚘 Rent A Car Online 🚘

Before renting a car, ensure that you have the necessary documentation, including a valid driver’s license and International Driving Permit if required. Also, check the rental company’s policies regarding cross-border travel and insurance coverage.

Travel Time and Routes

The time it takes to drive from Singapore to Malaysia largely depends on your specific destination, traffic conditions, and the route you choose.

• For Johor Bahru, it can take as little as 30 minutes to an hour via the Causeway or the Second Link.
• Kuala Lumpur is approximately 350 kilometres away from Singapore and can be reached in about 5 to 6 hours via the North-South Expressway.

Tips for Driving in Malaysia

• Understand the Road Rules : Familiarise yourself with the local road rules and signs. In Malaysia, you’ll be driving on the left-hand side of the road.
• Toll Payments : The expressways in Malaysia have toll booths. Make sure you have enough Malaysian Ringgit or a Touch ‘n Go card for toll payments.
• Keep Your Documents Handy : Always carry your passport, driver’s license, International Driving Permit (if required), and vehicle documents when crossing the border.
• Check Fuel and Vehicle Condition : Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel for the journey and is in good condition. Also, remember that it’s illegal in Malaysia to carry extra petrol in a can.
• Plan Your Journey : Especially if you’re driving to further destinations like Kuala Lumpur or Malacca, plan your route and rest stops in advance.

Driving across the border offers an exciting opportunity to explore Malaysia’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. Just ensure you’re well-prepared, and you’ll have a great road trip adventure.

For those wishing to head to the coastal and island regions of Malaysia, taking a ferry can be a convenient and enjoyable option.

Ferry Services Available

Several ferry services operate between Singapore and Malaysia, most of which connect Singapore to the Malaysian state of Johor. Here are some of the main ones:

• Limbongan Maju : This ferry service runs between Changi Point Ferry Terminal in Singapore and Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal in Johor.
• Berlian Ferries : Berlian Ferries operates a route between Changi Ferry Terminal in Singapore and Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal in Johor.
• Penguin Ferry Services : This service provides ferry rides from Harbourfront Centre in Singapore to Batam Centre and Sekupang in Indonesia, from where you can catch a connecting ferry to Johor.

Please note that schedules and services may change due to weather conditions, maintenance, or other factors, so it’s always best to check directly with the ferry companies for the latest information.

The ferry trip from Singapore to Johor takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the exact route. Costs vary but are typically in the range of SGD 20 – 40 per person one way.

• Book in Advance : Especially during holidays and weekends, ferries can fill up quickly. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
• Arrive Early : Similar to train and bus travel, you need to arrive at the ferry terminal early for immigration procedures.
• Motion Sickness : If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking preventative measures, especially during monsoon season when the sea can be rougher.
• Keep Essentials Handy : Keep your passport and ticket within easy reach for immigration purposes. Also, it’s a good idea to pack light and bring only essential items for a day trip.

Whether you prefer the speed of a ferry or the leisurely pace of a train, the choice is yours. Each mode of transport provides a different perspective of the journey and a unique travel experience.

If you prefer to explore Malaysia without the hassles of planning an itinerary or navigating unfamiliar roads, a guided tour can be an excellent choice. They often include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a curated list of attractions, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

Tour Services Available

Several companies offer guided day tours from Singapore to Malaysia. These tours generally include transportation, a guide, and a visit to various points of interest. Here are a few options:

• LUXURY First Class Bus: Kuala Lumpur (KL) fully-guided day tour from Singapore : A comfortable journey to the bustling capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, with guided visits to top attractions such as the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves.
• From Singapore: Private Kuala Lumpur guided day tour + SKY DINING : This tour combines sightseeing in Kuala Lumpur with a unique sky dining experience, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Legoland Malaysia day tour with Singapore Hotel Pickup : Venture out of Singapore and enjoy a full day in Legoland Malaysia. Admission to 3 Parks is included in the tour!
• Private Full-Day Malacca Tour from Singapore : Learn about the history and culture of Malacca from the knowledgeable guide.
• LUXURY Private day tour: Kuala Lumpur & Malacca from Singapore : Go on a journey up north to Malaysia with this fully guided private day tour from Singapore and visit Malacca and Kuala Lumpur.

The cost and duration of the tours can vary widely depending on the specific itinerary, the type of transportation, and whether meals or admission fees to attractions are included. For example, the Kuala Lumpur day tours generally take about 17-19 hours due to the travel time and the number of attractions covered. The costs can range anywhere from SGD 300 to SGD 1000 for a group, again depending on the inclusions.

• Book in Advance : Guided tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. To secure your spot, it’s recommended to book well in advance.
• Read Reviews : Before booking a tour, read reviews from other travelers to get a sense of the quality of the tour guide, the pacing of the itinerary, and the overall experience.
• Pack Essentials : Even though most things will be taken care of, remember to bring essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection. Also, wear comfortable shoes as most tours involve a fair amount of walking.
• Clarify Inclusions : Be sure to understand what’s included in the tour price and what’s not. This could include meals, entrance fees, and tips for the guide.

Guided tours can provide an enriching and convenient way to explore Malaysia. By handling the logistics, they allow you to focus on experiencing and enjoying your destination.

Whether you’re keen on exploring the cityscapes of Kuala Lumpur or the historic streets of Malacca, there’s likely a tour that fits your interests.

Must-See Destinations in Malaysia for a Day Trip

A day trip to Malaysia presents an opportunity to witness the country’s cultural diversity, stunning architecture, and natural beauty.

Here are some must-see destinations in Malaysia that you can explore on a day trip from Singapore.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s bustling capital, is a mesmerizing blend of modernity and tradition.

Here are some attractions you shouldn’t miss:

1. Petronas Towers

Standing tall as the iconic symbol of Kuala Lumpur, the Petronas Towers were once the tallest buildings in the world. Visit the Skybridge and observation deck for stunning panoramic views of the city.

2. KLCC Park

Located at the foot of the Petronas Towers, KLCC Park is a lush, 50-acre green space with walking paths, water features, and a children’s playground. It’s a lovely spot to unwind amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

3. Batu Caves

Just north of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves are a series of limestone caves and cave temples, with the towering statue of Lord Murugan welcoming visitors at the entrance. Be prepared for a steep climb up the colorful 272-step staircase.

🤩 Book A Flexible Day & Night Car Tour from Singapore 🤩

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru, just across the causeway from Singapore, offers a variety of attractions that make for a perfect day trip.

1. Johor Zoo

One of the first zoos to be established in Southeast Asia, Johor Zoo houses various species of fauna and offers interactive experiences such as feeding sessions.

2. Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

This mosque, one of the oldest in Malaysia, is a beautiful blend of Victorian and Moorish architecture. Its setting on top of a hill offers a stunning view of the Straits of Johor.

3. Legoland Malaysia

A fantastic destination for families, Legoland Malaysia is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and includes a water park, various rides, and impressive Lego structures.

🤩 Get A LEGOLAND Malaysia Ticket 🤩

4. Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is a thrilling water park located in Desaru, Johor, Malaysia. It features an array of exhilarating water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and interactive water play areas, providing fun and excitement for visitors of all ages.

🤩 Book Tickets To Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast 🤩

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca is rich in history and culture and offers a slower-paced day trip option.

1. A’Famosa Fortress

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, A’Famosa is one of the oldest surviving European architectural structures in Asia. The Porta de Santiago gate is the most well-known part of the fort today.

2. Jonker Street Night Market

Taking place every Friday-Sunday, the Jonker Street Night Market is a lively bazaar offering everything from street food and trinkets to clothing and crafts.

3. The Stadthuys

Known for its red exterior, The Stadthuys is a historic Dutch square in the heart of Malacca. It houses the Malacca Museum, which offers insights into Malacca’s rich past.

🤩 Kuala Lumpur & Malacca Luxury Day Tour from Singapore 🤩

These destinations provide just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of experiences that Malaysia offers. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the urban vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur, the family-friendly fun of Johor Bahru, or the historical charm of Malacca, you’re bound to have an unforgettable day trip.

Planning Your Itinerary According to Your Interests

Every traveller is unique, and what might appeal to one might not appeal to another.

That’s why it’s important to plan your itinerary based on your personal interests. Here’s a brief guide on how to do that:

1. History and Culture Enthusiasts

If you love history and culture, Malacca should be your top choice. From the Dutch Stadthuys and the Portuguese A’Famosa Fortress to the vibrant Jonker Street Night Market, you’ll be immersed in the rich tapestry of cultures that have influenced this UNESCO World Heritage City.

In Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves offer a glimpse into the country’s Hindu heritage, and the Islamic Arts Museum showcases stunning Islamic decorative arts.

2. Architecture and Urban Explorers

For those who love architecture and urban landscapes, Kuala Lumpur is a paradise. The city boasts architectural marvels like the Petronas Towers and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. The colourful stairs of Batu Caves and the diverse cityscape can also be fascinating. In Johor Bahru, the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque is a must-see architectural gem.

3. Nature and Outdoor Lovers

Outdoor enthusiasts should head to KLCC Park in Kuala Lumpur for a refreshing break amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. If you don’t mind venturing a bit further, the Taman Negara National Park is a heaven for nature lovers. In Johor Bahru, the Johor Botanic Gardens offer tranquil trails and a variety of flora.

🤩 Join A Taman Negara National Park Day Tour 🤩

4. Families with Kids

Travelling with kids? Johor Bahru should be on your list. The city is home to family-friendly attractions like Legoland Malaysia and Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast . In Kuala Lumpur, the Petrosains Discovery Centre in the Petronas Towers is an interactive science discovery centre that will keep kids engaged and entertained.

🤩 Book A Legoland Malaysia Day Tour With Singapore Hotel Pickup 🤩

If trying local cuisines is high on your list, all three cities have something to offer. Malacca’s Jonker Street Night Market is known for its delicious street food, including Nyonya-Baba cuisine—a unique blend of Chinese and Malay cooking styles. In Kuala Lumpur, explore the food stalls at Jalan Alor for a taste of local delicacies.

🤩 Join The 10 Tastings of Kuala Lumpur With Locals 🤩

Remember, these are just suggestions. Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences. After all, the best travel experiences are often those that resonate with your personal interests and passions.

Malaysian Food and Culture

A trip to Malaysia is incomplete without diving into its rich food scene and understanding its vibrant culture. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect.

Famous Malaysian Dishes to Try

Malaysian cuisine is a delightful mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, creating a unique and flavorful blend. Here are some dishes you shouldn’t miss:

• Nasi Lemak : Considered the national dish of Malaysia, Nasi Lemak is fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with sambal (spicy sauce), anchovies, peanuts, and boiled egg.
• Satay : These are skewers of marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) that are grilled to perfection and served with a peanut sauce.
• Char Kuey Teow : A popular noodle dish stir-fried in a dark soy sauce with prawns, beansprouts, chives, and sometimes Chinese sausage and fish cake.
• Laksa : This spicy noodle soup comes in various types, but the two most popular are Penang Assam Laksa (fish-based sour soup) and Curry Laksa, which has a coconut curry soup base.
• Roti Canai : A type of Indian-influenced flatbread that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect for dipping in curry sauces.

Understanding the Malaysian Culture

Malaysia is a multicultural and multiconfessional country, with Malays, Chinese, and Indians making up the majority of the population. This diversity is reflected in its culture, which is a blend of various traditions and influences.

Malaysia is also known for its art forms, including traditional dance and music like the graceful Mak Yong theatre, the martial art form Silat, and the mesmerizing gamelan music. Malaysian hospitality is renowned worldwide, and visitors often find themselves welcomed with open arms.

Shopping and Souvenirs

From bustling markets to high-end malls, shopping in Malaysia caters to all tastes and budgets. Here are a few souvenirs to look out for:

• Batik : This traditional fabric, with beautiful patterns created using a wax-resist dyeing technique, can be made into clothing, tablecloths, or wall hangings.
• Pewter Goods : Malaysia is one of the biggest producers of pewter, and items like mugs, plates, and jewelry make excellent souvenirs.
• Local Spices and Snacks : Think of curry powders, local coffee, or sweet and savory snacks like dodol and murukku.
• Handicrafts : Items like woven baskets, wooden carvings, and beadwork reflect the skills of local artisans.

Exploring the food and culture is a crucial part of any trip to Malaysia. So, whether you’re savouring a bowl of Laksa, bargaining at a local market, or getting lost in the rhythm of a traditional dance, remember to soak in every moment of your Malaysian adventure.

Practical Information and Travel Tips

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable day trip to Malaysia, here are some practical tips and information.

Currency Exchange

The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Currency exchange services are readily available at banks, airports or borders, and dedicated exchange bureaus in Singapore and Malaysia. It’s often a good idea to carry some cash as not all places, especially smaller shops and street vendors, accept credit cards.

Cultural Etiquettes and Safety Tips

Respect for local culture is vital wherever you travel. In Malaysia, dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left is traditionally seen as impure. It’s also recommended to avoid public displays of affection.

Malaysia is generally safe for travellers, but as with any destination, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Mobile and Internet Connectivity

Prepaid SIM cards are widely available in Malaysia and can be bought at the airport, convenience stores, and official telecom company stores. Malaysia has a strong network infrastructure, so internet coverage is generally good, particularly in cities.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

As of my last update in May 2023, there are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers entering Malaysia from Singapore. However, it’s always a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccines, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot.

Ensure to check the latest travel advisories from reliable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or your country’s foreign travel department.

Travel Insurance

Consider getting travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost belongings. Check whether the policy covers more than one country.

Returning to Singapore

After a fantastic day exploring Malaysia’s sights and delights, it’s time to head back to Singapore. Here’s some essential information to keep in mind for your return journey:

Travelling Back to Singapore: What to Know

The return journey from Malaysia to Singapore is usually straightforward. You can travel back the same way you came – by bus, train, car, ferry, or tour.

Do keep in mind the travel times and make sure to check the last departure times if you are using public transport. Also, remember that immigration can take a while, especially during peak times, so factor that into your travel schedule.

Just as when you left Singapore, you’ll need to go through immigration controls when you return. Ensure you have all your travel documents, including your passport and any necessary visas, ready for inspection.

Customs Regulations and Duty-free Shopping

Singapore has strict customs regulations. Make sure you are aware of the duty-free concession limits and the list of prohibited and controlled goods.

Duty-free shopping can be a great way to make some savings. You’ll find duty-free shops at the airports and some border crossings. Just remember to keep any receipts, as you may need to show them at customs.

Lastly, always declare goods that exceed your duty-free concession or goods that are controlled or subject to GST. Failure to do so could result in penalties.

Returning to Singapore after your day trip to Malaysia, you’ll likely be tired but filled with unforgettable memories. Remember, the most important part of any trip is to enjoy the journey and have fun!

Recap On Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

Taking a day trip from Singapore to Malaysia can be an exciting and rewarding experience and it’s more than possible to do in one day.

You’ll have the chance to explore vibrant cities like Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, or Malacca, visit iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Towers or the Batu Caves, and immerse yourself in the Malaysian culture.

Remember to plan your trip keeping in mind the distance, travel time, and legal considerations. Choose the mode of transport that suits your convenience and preferences, whether it’s by bus, train, car, ferry, or a guided tour. The key to a memorable day trip lies in effective planning and flexibility.

Final Thoughts and Suggestions

While a day trip gives you a brief glimpse into the fascinating world of Malaysia, it’s worth noting that there’s so much more to explore in this diverse country.

Perhaps this day trip might inspire you to plan a longer visit in the future 😉

No matter how you choose to spend your day, remember to respect the local customs and traditions, be mindful of your surroundings, and most importantly, enjoy every moment. After all, the beauty of travel lies in the experiences you gather and the memories you create.

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18 Short Trips from Singapore Less Than 3 Hours Away

BY Pelago by Singapore Airlines

12 OCT 23 . 7 MIN READ . GUIDES

Weekend Wanderings: Short Trips from Singapore

Beyond the Lion City lies a world of hidden treasures and exquisite travel destinations located across different countries near Singapore, all less than three hours away.

If you have a public holiday or an extra long weekend coming up and you’re looking for a short but sweet break from your everyday routine, we’ve got you covered!

Pack your bags, leave the city’s bustling rhythm behind, and embark on a journey of exploration with this list of the best weekend getaways and short trips from Singapore!

Langkawi, Malaysia

Bangkok, thailand, bali, indonesia, kuala lumpur, malaysia, koh samui, thailand, lombok, indonesia.

• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Phuket, Thailand

Krabi, thailand, jakarta, indonesia, hoi an, vietnam, siem reap, cambodia, penang, malaysia, chiang mai, thailand.

• Bintan Island, Indonesia

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Batam, indonesia, cameron highlands, malaysia.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes by flight from Singapore

Known for its white sandy beaches and pristine turquoise waters, Langkawi features a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a laid-back island atmosphere.

1. Embark on a jet ski adventure

Dayang bunting jet ski island tour.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a jet ski and tour across eight islands with an epic island-hopping adventure, exploring breathtaking Fjords, relaxing on isolated beaches, or watching the eagles soaring through the skies.

2. Soar to new heights with a cable car adventure

Langkawi cable car (skycab) tickets.

If you want a magnificent bird’s eye view of Langkawi, book a cable car ride to soar to the summit of the 550 million-year-old Mount Manchinchang. Witness the beauty of Langkawi’s diverse wildlife from above as you glide over this ancient rainforest.

3. Surprise your special someone with a sunset cruise

Sunset cruise in langkawi.

Or, if you’re looking to add a splash of romance to your trip, why not try a sunset cruise on a luxury yacht across the crystal-clear waters of Langkawi’s archipelago?

Set sail with Crystal Yacht, Langkawi’s top choice for luxurious boat trips.

You can select from two popular packages: the Sunset Dinner Cruise and the Geopark Day Cruise. They offer shared and private options on their big 50- and 60-foot catamaran boats.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 30 minutes by flight from Singapore

Bangkok offers a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, shopping, and entertainment and promises to be one of the best weekend getaways from Singapore.

4. Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen saduak floating market tour.

Begin your adventure by touring one of Bangkok’s best-floating markets , the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market , exploring its fascinating maze of canals, enjoying a paddle boat ride, and watching how the locals make coconut brown sugar.

5. Walk your way through Bangkok and immerse yourself in local history

The grand palace & bangkok temples walking tour.

For history buffs, immerse yourself in Bangkok’s cultural and historical heritage by exploring the Grand Palace’s royal chambers and some of Bangkok’s most stunning temples , like the Emerald Buddha Temple and Wat Pho.

6. Go on a Michelin guide Bangkok street food adventure

Michelin guide bangkok street food tour by tuk-tuk.

No matter your trip’s length, you can’t miss the chance to indulge in Bangkok’s iconic street food scene .

Jump in a tuk-tuk and explore Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown like a local, zooming through tiny alleyways and sampling local delicacies from the many iconic eateries and street food stalls in the area, all Michelin-rated.

Trust us, your palate will thank you.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes by flight from Singapore

Bali is one of the more popular long weekend getaway choices for Singaporeans when planning a short overseas trip from Singapore.

This island paradise combines natural beauty with vibrant culture and secluded beaches that make for the perfect romantic retreat for couples.

7. Spend a day with the macaques of Ubud

Ubud monkey forest sanctuary tour and jungle swing.

Start your adventure with a trip to the memorable Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where over 500 long-tail macaques roam the jungle – the photo-ops here are to die for!

8. Go on a Bali Instagram adventure

Bali instagram tour.

If it’s iconic photo ops you’re looking for, you can’t miss passing through the Gates Of Heaven in front of Mount Agung or the chance to pose for pictures in a secluded mystical cave.

Explore Bali’s most beautiful and well-known locations on a customisable day trip.

You’ve probably seen these places on Instagram, from the Gates of Heaven to the Ubud rice fields.

Now, you can experience their beauty in person.

9. Cruise to Nusa Lembongan

Beach club cruise tour to nusa lembongan.

No weekend getaway in Bali would be complete without a day of beach fun and water sports, so we recommend jumping aboard a beach club cruise on a Book your Nusa Lembongan beach club cruise today!

Once you arrive, you’ll have the chance to explore Mushroom Bay with snorkelling adventures, scuba diving, bar and restaurant hopping, whatever floats your boat.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes by flight from Singapore

If you’re jet-setting on a short trip to Malaysia from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur should be at the top of your list. KL (as the locals call it) offers the pace and thrill of a large cosmopolitan city with a rich food scene, lush natural beauty, fabulous shopping and a generous dose of culture.

10. Embark on an off-the-beaten-track foodie tour

Flavours of malaysia off the beaten track food tour.

Begin by getting a literal taste of this capital city by visiting one of its largest wet markets, with a professional guide leading you through a vibrant selection of fresh produce and iconic local dishes.

11. See the best of KL

Batu caves and kuala lumpur city tour with 21 attractions.

We recommend making the most of your time in KL with a full-day experience that takes you to Batu Caves and the main attractions.

The incredible Batu Caves is known for its 400-million-year-old limestone rock formations and Hindu shrines.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 5 minutes by flight from Singapore

For a blissful weekend getaway from Singapore, the pristine shores of Koh Samui, Thailand, offer a tantalising paradise just a short flight away.

With its turquoise waters and lush landscapes, this tropical gem is perfect for couples looking for rest and rejuvenation.

12. Go island-hopping

Koh samui island hopping tour to coral and pig island.

Start your retreat by island hopping to Coral and Pig Island, where you’ll snorkel amidst pristine coral reefs and colourful marine life, or relax and unwind with your partner on a secluded beach.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes by flight from Singapore

History, culture and gastronomy combine in exquisite harmony in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, making it an ideal escape for a short weekend getaway from Singapore.

13. Visit Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep

Sendang gile and tiu kelep waterfalls tour.

Kickstart your weekend of total immersion in nature with a refreshing dip in Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall.

14. Slow down, and explore village life in Tetebatu

Tetebatu walking tour: rice terraces, waterfall, forest.

Then experience village life with a walk through the rich landscapes of Tetebatu with its lush rice terraces, waterfalls and monkey forests.

Stop for a chat with the locals, or soak in panoramic views of Mount Rinjani volcano along the way.

15. Climb Mount Rinjani

2d1n mount rinjani summit trekking tour.

If you’re still craving adventure, you can hike up to the summit of the stunning Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano.

You’ll catch glimpses of local wildlife along the way, and have the opportunity to soak in magnificent panoramic views from the summit!

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Travel Time : 2 hours and 15 minutes by flight from Singapore

16. Scale the Saigon Skydeck

Saigon skydeck at bitexco financial tower tickets.

Elevate your weekend with a bird’s eye view of the city from 178 metres up in the air at the Saigon Skydeck , with stunning 360-degree views.

17. Explore Ho Chi Minh City on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Ho chi minh city hop-on hop-off sightseeing.

Afterwards, you can descend from the heavens back down to earth and experience the city at your own pace with the hop-on hop-off bus , an immersive sightseeing adventure through Ho Chi Minh’s vibrant neighbourhoods and historic landmarks.

18. Go on a romantic Saigon sunset cruise

Saigon romantic sunset cruise.

Finally, for couples looking to spice up their romantic retreat, we recommend sailing off into the sunset in a luxury speedboat in the heart of Saigon.

This sunset cruise comes with unlimited refreshments, allowing you to explore Saigon’s winding canals and architectural wonders, all while soaking in a spectacular sunset.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 55 minutes by flight from Singapore

For a short getaway from Singapore filled with sun, sea and adventure, look no further than Phuket, Thailand.

19. Tour James Bond island on a luxury boat

James bond island luxury boat tour with sunset dinner.

Upon landing, live the lavish life of James Bond with the James Bond luxury boat adventure!

Hop onboard a luxurious catamaran with a full bar, sunbeds, a DJ and a dancefloor, sip on a glass of bubbly, explore the sea caves of Hong Island by kayak, and indulge in a delicious sunset dinner.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes by flight from Singapore

Just about two hours away by flight, Krabi in Thailand is one of the best weekend getaways from Singapore.

20. Island hop till you drop

4 islands tour from krabi.

Known for its pristine beaches, you can start your getaway with an island-hopping adventure across four islands, snorkelling at Hin Pae, sunbathing on pristine white sands, and indulging in a delicious complimentary lunch.

21. Explore Phi Phi Island's coral reefs

Phi phi islands snorkelling tour by speedboat from krabi.

Explore the depths of the underwater realm with an exciting snorkelling tour by speedboat across the Phi Phi Islands from Krabi, where giant limestone rocks emerge majestically from the clear blue waters.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes by flight from Singapore

Jakarta, a vibrant city, offers a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, making it an ideal destination for short trips from Singapore. Explore its skyline, shopping hubs, bustling food streets, and the historic charm of ancient mosques and Old Town.

22. Hop on the Gondola Ancol

Gondola cable car ancol tickets.

Just a stone’s throw away from Singapore lies Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, offering travellers a rich blend of history, cuisine, and urban charm (as well as fun activities for families with kids). To see Jakarta from up high in the sky, jump on the Gondola Ancol and get a panoramic view of Jakarta Bay.

23. Visit the Jakarta Aquarium & Safari

Jakarta aquarium & safari tickets.

Get up close and personal with local wildlife by spending the day at the Jakarta Aquarium & Safari, Indonesia’s largest indoor living planet.

This fascinating conservation area is home to over 3,500 species of aquatic and non-aquatic animals.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes by flight from Singapore

Hoi An is a picturesque town on the central coast of Vietnam, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its charming architecture, lantern-lit streets, and rich history.

24. Row your way through Hoi An on a basket boat

Hoi an ancient town and basket boat tour from da nang.

To steep yourself in Hoi An’s ancient history, you can stroll through its vibrant streets and visit a renowned coconut village to take a traditional basket boat ride, all while learning about the region’s history and culture.

25. Glide along the Hoai River and release a lantern into the night sky

Hoai river boat ride ticket.

To experience this enchanting town by night, watching the lanterns light up and soaking in its ancient architecture, you can step aboard a traditional wooden boat and embark on a serene journey along the Hoai River.

You’ll even be able to release your very own lantern into the skies, which is believed to bring good luck and blessings.

Travel Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes by flight from Singapore

An immersive journey awaits at Siem Reap, nestled in the heart of Cambodia and home to exquisite natural beauty.

26. Explore Siem Reap's countryside by Vespa

Siem reap countryside vespa adventure.

Why not explore it on the back of a Vespa, off the beaten track and into the real Cambodia, with a local guide leading you on a personalised adventure?

You’ll end this once-in-a-lifetime experience with some culture by visiting a local Buddhist temple and trying a tantalisingly tasty local dish.

27. Join a Khmer cooking class

Half day khmer cooking class.

If food is on your mind, you can try your hand at actually cooking local Khmer cuisine with the help of Cambodian chefs!

Hop in a tuk-tuk to Treak Village where a lush herb garden, banana trees and homegrown local ingredients await you, and immerse yourself in Cambodian food culture.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes by flight from Singapore

Penang is a Malaysian island known for its rich landscapes, cultural heritage and delectable cuisine like char koay teow and laksa.

28. Fill your day with magic and wonder

Magic world penang.

If you have the kids in tow on your short family getaway, keep them entertained by visiting Magic World Penang .

This 3D art museum lets visitors interact with optical illusions and imaginative artworks.

You’ll even have the chance to pose as part of the art for some truly memorable photo ops.

29. Witness Penang from up high in the sky at The TOP

The top penang tickets.

To soak in the sights and sounds of Penang, head to The TOP Penang for a bird’s eye view of the capital from the Rainbow Skywalk open-air glass bridge, or for a day of fun at its indoor theme park.

Travel Time: 3 hours by flight from Singapore

Chiang Mai is located in the lush northern hills of Thailand and is known for its serene temples, vibrant street markets and natural beauty.

30. Set out in a tuk-tuk and start exploring

Chiang mai temples and street market tuk-tuk tour.

Dive into your cultural adventure by hopping in a tuk-tuk and touring the local temples and markets, including the 700-year-old Lanna-inspired Wat Chedi Luang.

31. Take a walk on the wild side with the Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang mai night safari tickets.

The night safari in Chiang Mai is also not to be missed, nestled in the foothills of the Doi Pui mountain and home to several creatures that roam in the dark, from lions to tigers, hyenas to cheetahs.

Bintan, Indonesia

Travel Time: 50 minutes by ferry from Singapore

Only 50 minutes away by ferry, Bintan is ideal for a quick getaway from Singapore , offering travellers several vacation options, from spas and shopping to watersports and outdoor adventures.

32. Explore the best of Bintan

Best of bintan tour.

You can make the most of your stay on this beautiful island with an immersive all-day adventure, venturing to hilly dunes and turquoise blue lagoons, enjoying a delightful seafood lunch, and ending the day with a relaxing massage.

33. Go on a Bintan foodie hunt

Bintan food hunt tour.

Discover the island’s delicious local cuisine and culinary specialities that most tourists don’t even know about on a Bintan foodie tour.

You’ll stop at local villages and soak in some truly stunning scenery, well worth the trip, we say.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 10 minutes by flight from Singapore

Yogyakarta is a cultural gem on the Indonesian island of Java, renowned for its rich history, artistry, and majestic ancient temples.

34. Check out Borobudur & Prambanan

Yogyakarta: borobudur & prambanan temple day tour.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites of Borobudur and Prambanan temples are not to be missed, with the famous Borobudur standing proud as the largest Buddhist temple in the world.

Travel Time: 45 – 70 minutes by ferry from Singapore

Just a short ferry ride from Singapore , Batam makes for one of the easiest and fastest destinations, making it perfect for short weekend trips from Singapore.

35. Enjoy all sorts of fun in Batam

Batam adventure park.

Once you touch down in Batam, enjoy an afternoon of go-karting with the family, or hire an ATV for a thrilling ride through the Batam Adventure Park’s forest tracks.

If adrenaline-pumping thrills are not your cup of tea, you can opt instead for a relaxing day at the Absolute Spa, with a series of spa treatments and massages to choose from.

Travel Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes by flight from Singapore to Ipoh, then 1h45m by car to Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is the largest hill station in Malaysia, also home to tea plantations and a huge variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables.

36. Strap on your boots and head to a strawberry farm

Cameron highlands day tour.

Get in touch with the land by visiting its stunning strawberry farms and take a tour of a local tea plantation, all the while soaking in magnificent views of rolling hillsides and lush vegetation.

37. Spend a day with the sheep of Cameron Highlands

The sheep sanctuary ticket in cameron highlands.

For families travelling with kids, the Sheep Sanctuary is a fabulously fun day out for all ages, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet, pet and even feed a host of adorable sheep!

From Beaches to Bars: Short Trips from Singapore

From the tranquil beaches of Bali to the bustling streets and bars of Bangkok, the cultural wonders of Yogyakarta to the tropical paradise of Koh Samui – these enchanting getaway destinations are just a quick journey from the Lion City, making them them the best short trips from Singapore for you to embark on.

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Home » Singapore » 15 Best Family-Friendly Short Trips And Weekend Destinations From Singapore

15 Best Family-Friendly Short Trips And Weekend Destinations From Singapore

Unique family trips within 3 hours from singapore.

In Asia, Singapore is perfectly located super well for easy and fantastic travel options close by. Whether your tribe enjoys beach bumming or city slicking, there are plenty of options for weekend getaways and short trips from Singapore. Little Steps has rounded up some of our favourite short-haul destinations, with a bonus that they’re only under 3 hours or less from Singapore.

From Bali to Laos, there are just so many exciting destinations to consider! Short haul trips from Singapore with kids in tow – you’re sorted. Pack your bags, and happy travels!

LAOS: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Laos is too often overlooked as a South East Asian holiday destination. It shouldn’t be, especially considering its beautiful landscapes and exceptionally well-kept heritage. Visit Vientiane for yummy food and cultural wonders. Take the kids on fantastic adventures like challenging their senses with a cooking class in Luang Prabang, or visit the magnificent Tham Sang Triangle caves near Vang Vieng. While in Vang Vieng, don’t miss the opportunity to see Laos from above while on a hot air balloon tour. Stay at the charming Salana Boutique Hotel in Vientiane.

Tamarind Restaurant & Cooking School, on the Nam Khan River, Ban Wat Sene, Luang Prabang, Laos, +856 20 5634 7690, [email protected], www.tamarindlaos.com

Above Laos Ballooning Adventures, Vang Vieng Paramotor Center and Pilot’s Café, Road to Nathong village, Blue Lagoon 1 and Phu Kham Cave, Laos, +856 20 98 849 401, [email protected], www.abovelaos.com

Salana Boutique Hotel, Chao Anou Road, 112 Wat Chan Village Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Laos, +856 21 254 254, [email protected], www.salanaboutique.com

Luang Prabang, More info here

Vientiane Hotels For Kids, More info here

LOMBOK: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Bali, for sure, is popular and a must-visit holiday destination, but Lombok is the place to go if you want to relax and enjoy some of Indonesia’s idyllic beaches. Yes, exactly like the ones you see on the pages of travel magazines. It's still a bit of a hidden gem in that most tourists forget about it and instead only travel to Bali when exploring their island getaway in Indonesia. We definitely recommend taking the time to visit Lombok. In Lombok, partying is not at the top of the list. The atmosphere is more laid-back and relaxed compared to Bali, making it the perfect destination for families. It’s a little piece of paradise that you definitely need to explore… and they have direct flights from Singapore!

Lombok With Kids, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/lombok-with-kids-toddlers

Hotels And Resorts In Lombok, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/best-family-friendly-hotels-and-resorts-in-lombok

Yoga Retreats And Wellness Classes In Lombok, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/wellness-yoga-retreats-and-classes

Best Villas In Kuta Lombok, www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/lombok/villas-in-kuta-lombok

PHUKET: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Phuket is the perfect short-haul destination from Singapore for the whole family, especially for those who enjoy time by the ocean. Dip your toes in with the kids or laze on the white sandy beach, cocktail in hand! Explore the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay by kayak. Climb up to view the Big Ming Mongkol Buddha in Phuket. There are tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from, with kids clubs or private villas for groups. Have a look at the Aleenta Resort & Spa, a great choice catering to the whole family’s needs.

John Gray Sea Canoe, 111/7 Moo 6 Tambon Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand, +66 63 124 3404, [email protected], www.johngray-seacanoe.com

Big Ming Mongkol Buddhab, Nakkerd Hill near Chalong, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand, +66 081 891 3827, [email protected], www.mingmongkolphuket.com

Aleenta Resort & Spa, 33, Khok Kloi, Takua Thung District, Phang-nga, Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand, +66 2 514 8124, [email protected], www.aleenta.com/phuket

Ultimate Phuket Guide For Families, More info here

Top Family-Friendly Hotels In Phuket, More info here

KUALA LUMPUR: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Just over an hour’s flight from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur is the ultimate short-haul city break from Singapore. This northern neighbour offers plenty of delicious food and shopping galore, as well as some easy outings for children. Get close to Malaysia’s feathered friends by spending a morning with the kids at the KL Bird Park. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit the ancient Batu Caves just outside Kuala Lumpur. Stay at the luxurious Sunway Resort. The kids will love the added bonus of the several water and amusement parks in the vicinity.

KL Bird Park, 920 Jalan Cenderawasih, Taman Tasik Perdana, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, +60 3 2272 1010, [email protected], www.klbirdpark.com

Batu Caves, Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia, Malaysian Ministry Of Tourism, Arts, & Culture, +60 3 8891 8000, [email protected], www.malaysia.travel/explore/batu-caves

Sunway Resort, Persiaran Lagoon, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, +60 3 7492 8000, [email protected], www.sunwayhotels.com/sunway-resort

Kuala Lumpur With Kids, More Info here

Family-Friendly Hotels In Kuala Lumpur, More info here

PENANG: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Penang offers beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, delish food, and activities galore that’ll please the whole family. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa sits on 30 acres of tropical landscaped gardens - the perfect luxe resort for families. With a spa for mom and dad and nearby Adventure Zone indoor playground for the kids, they’ve got you covered! Flutter past Entopia Butterfly Farm and watch newly-emerged butterflies take their first flight in an enchanting aviary. For action and adventure, head to Escape theme park where play is seamlessly mixed with learning about the environment.

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Batu Feringgi Beach, Penang, Malaysia, +60 4 888 8888, [email protected], www.shangri-la.com/en/penang/rasasayangresort/

Entopia Butterfly Farm, 830 Jalan Teluk Bahang, Penang, Malaysia, +60 4 8888 111, [email protected], www.entopia.com

Escape Theme Park, 828 Jalan Teluk Bahang, Penang, Malaysia, +60 17 797 7529, [email protected], www.escape.my

Penang With Kids, More info here

BATAM: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

An easy 45 minutes away from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, the luxury Montigo Resort sits on the north-eastern coast of Batam (Indonesia). It’s one of Batam’s first luxury residences. Each of the lavish villas offers ample room for your little jetsetters to run around, and tons of groegous spaces for parents to relax and indulge in some TLC. Included at the resort is a gamut of activities like volleyball, tennis, swimming, cooking, and painting for the kiddies. The resort also offers a fantastic kids club for when you want to take a couples massage or just have some quiet by the pool and know that your little ones are well looked after. Go on a mangrove tour or ride quad bikes on a dirt track, booked through the Resort! Chill by your own private infinity pool. Yes, please!

Montigo Resort - Nongsa, Jl. Hang Lekir Nongsa, Batam, Indonesia, +62 778 776 8888, [email protected], www.montigoresorts.com

BALI: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Made up of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a perfect getaway right on Singapore’s doorstep. For a relaxing getaway, try Bali! As the Southern Hemisphere’s “Hawaii,” Bali has a little bit of everything - monkey forests, waterfalls, and safaris for the little ones. Take the kids to experience the magic of being close to beautiful endangered Sumatran elephants at the Mason Elephant Park & Lodge. Have fun getting wet at Bali Wake Park, one of Asia’s largest aqua parks! Stay at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, a family-friendly beachside haven in Bali.

Mason Elephant Park & Lodge, Jl. Elephant Park Taro, Taro Village, Tegalalang, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia, +62 361 721 480, [email protected], www.masonelephantlodge.com

Bali Wake Park, Jl. Raya Pelabuhan Benoa No.7X, Pedungan, Kec. Denpasar Selatan, Bali, Indonesia, +62 361 846 8866, [email protected], www.baliwakepark.com

Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, ITDC Lot N-3, Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, +62 361 771906, [email protected], www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dpswi-the-westin-resort-nusa-dua-bali

Little Steps Bali - Everything You Need To Know, More info here

Top 50 Things To Do With Kids In Bali, More info here

BINTAN: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Living in Singapore has plenty of perks including the popular 45-minute ferry ride to the family-fabulous island of Bintan. From fishing and urban life tours, to dining by the sea. Bintan Island in Indonesia has many adventures to offer the whole family, and tons of opportunities to play and relax. Enjoy swimming amongst clownfish and beautiful coral reefs on a snorkeling or diving tour in the reef. Favourite family-friendly resorts in Bintan include The Residence Bintan and The Sanchaya.

Bintan Adventure Tours, Housing Griya Bima Kencana Blok E No. 05 Tanjung, Uban Selatan, Tanjung, Bintan, Indonesia, +62 812 613 19820, [email protected], www.bintanadventures.com

The Residence Bintan, Kampung Galang Batang RT 005 RW 003, Desa/Kecamatan Gunung Kijang, Bintan, Indonesia, +62 778 6000 888, [email protected], www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/bintan

The Sanchaya, Lagoi Bay, Jalan Gurindam Duabelas, Plot 5, Sebong Lagoi, Kec. Tlk. Sebong, Bintan, Indonesia, +62 770 692200, [email protected], www.thesanchaya.com

HO CHI MINH CITY: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Vietnam has it all, including friendly locals and famously delish food. Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of fabulous eateries, shopping gems, five-star stays, and historical adventures. Stay at the lovely 5-star hotel InterContinental Saigon. It’s perfect for seeing the sites of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Opera House. Visit the educational War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. Enjoy an unforgettable night out - book a Water Puppet Show and dinner on a Dragon Boat combo tour as you cruise along the Saigon river.

InterContinental Saigon, Corner Hai Ba Trung, St.& Le Duan Bl, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, +84 28 3520 9999, [email protected], www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/ho-chi-minh-city/sgnha/hoteldetail

War Remnants Museum, 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, +84 8 3930 5587, [email protected], www.baotangchungtichchientranh.vn

Bike Tour, Ton That Thuyet Street 3/17, Ward 18, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, +84 888 688 911, [email protected], www.vnbiketour.com

PHNOM PENH: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Family stays at one of Asia’s grand old dames, the classic colonial-era Raffles Hotel Le Royal, will transcend you back in time. Located in the heart of Cambodia’s intoxicating capital city, Phnom Penh, this landmark luxury hotel offers easy access to all the sites and the Mekong River Cruise terminal. Ease into a fantastic sunset cruise along the Mekong river, while enjoying traditional Khmer BBQ. Browse around with the fam at Central Market, also an art deco landmark in Phnom Penh, and pick up some fab souvenirs to take home.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh, +855 23 981 888, [email protected], www.raffles.com/phnom-penh

Memorable Cambodia Tours, Preah Sisowath Quay (Between street 90 & 94), Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, +855 17 226 700, [email protected], www.memorablecambodia.com

Central Market, Street 128 (Kampuchea Krom) in Phsar Thmei 1 Commune, Daun Penh District, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

SIEM REAP: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

You’ll find it impossible to travel through Cambodia with kids without friendly smiles directed your way – Cambodians love children! Cambodia’s main holiday destination, Siem Reap, is most famous for its beautiful temples, especially Angkor Wat. It’s a “must-see” and said to be one of the world’s largest religious structures. The view is especially enchanting at sunrise or sunset. Temples aside, there is so much more to discover in Siem Reap like food tours, horse rides, and the incredible Phare The Cambodian Circus. Book your stay at the Tanei Angkor Resort & Spa. Angkor Wat, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia Phare

The Cambodian Circus, Intersection, Ring Road south of Sok San Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia, +855 15 499 480, [email protected], www.pharecircus.org

Tanei Angkor Resort & Spa, Ring Road, Svay Dangkum Village, Siem Reap, Cambodia, +855 89 844 589, [email protected], www.taneiangkor.com

Siem Reap With Kids, More info here

BANGKOK: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

There are so many opportunities for fun in the City of Angels - Bangkok, especially for families. Relax at the stunning Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort offering a large tropical swimming pool, a kids club, spacious rooms, and plenty of dining options. Take the kiddos to Siam Amazing Park, an amusement and water park, for loads of fun! For something different, pop past Stanley MiniVenture, Asia’s largest 1:87 miniature town. As a short-haul city break from Singapore - Bangkok is always a winner!

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Road, Thonburi, Bangkok 10600, Thailand, +66 2 476 0022, [email protected], www.anantara.com/en/riverside-bangkok

Siam Amazing Park, 203 Suan Siam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok, Thailand, +66 2 105 4294, [email protected], www.siamamazingpark.com/index.php

Stanley MiniVenture, 982/22 Gateway Ekamai, Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand, +66 2 048 9924, www.stanleyminiventure.com

50 Family-Friendly Adventures In Bangkok, More info here

LANGKAWI: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Langkawi is one of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia. It’s a favourite tourist attraction due to its spectacular beaches and plethora of things to do. Stay at the serene Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, tucked away within an UNESCO World Geopark. This magnificent Resort is flanked by a tropical rainforest and the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea. Ride on a SkyCab gondola taking you up from the lush green foothills to the top of the mountains. For breathtaking views, also stroll across the 125m long curved pedestrian SkyBridge suspended above Mount Gunung Machinchang.

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Mukim Ayer Hangat, Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi, Malaysia, +60 4 950 8700, [email protected], www.fourseasons.com/langkawi

Panorama Langkawi, Cable Car Station, Oriental Village, Burau Bay, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia, +60 4 959 4225, [email protected], www.panoramalangkawi.com

Langkawi With Kids, More info here

Family-Friendly Hotels For Kids In Langkawi, More info here

KOH SAMUI: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

With stunning beaches, delicious food, and sunsets to die for, you're sure to have fun with the kiddos in Koh Samui. With 23 charming villas to choose from, including options for 1 to 8 bedrooms, Samujana can cater to single families, groups, and family reunions. All villas feature large private infinity pools, unobstructed sea views, and dedicated villa hosts. Go on a jungle safari tour as you 4x4 off-road through the untouched jungle and splash in waterfalls. Book a half-day boat tour to experience sighting the beautiful pink dolphins at play.

Samujana, 63/154 Moo 5, Plai Laem Soi 11, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand, +66 77 423 465, [email protected], www.samujana.com

Koh Samui Tours, 128/69 Moo 3 (Maret Lamai), Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand, +66 82 854 0296, [email protected], www.kohsamui.tours

KOTA KINABALU: *Short Trips And Weekend Getaways From Singapore

You will be spoilt for choice with the many five-star resorts to stay at in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Malaysia’s Sabah state on Borneo Island. Have a blissful escape with 5-star luxury at The Magellan Sutera Resort. Spend a day exploring Gaya Island and go on an underwater sea walking marine tour at nearby Sapi Island. To make the most of your time in Kota Kinabalu, book a Mari Mari Cultural Village tour. The whole family can be immersed into the Island’s diverse and vibrant culture.

The Magellan Sutera Resort, At Sutera Harbour Resort, 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia, +60 88 318 888, [email protected], www.suteraharbour.com

Adventoro Tours, 27C, Jalan SS 22/19, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, +60 10 468 8011, [email protected], www.adventoro.com

Travel Yamu, Block B3-1-27, Jalan 1/152, Taman OUG Parklane, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, +60 19 696 9325, [email protected], www.travelyamu.com/home

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RSVP for 15 Best Family-Friendly Short Trips And Weekend Destinations From Singapore

18 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from Singapore

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Mar 20, 2023

Author Freddy Sherman has visited Singapore multiple times, most recently to attend the Singapore Grand Prix in October 2022.

The city-state of Singapore sits on the end of the Malaysian peninsula, a short ferry ride from Indonesia. While Singapore is filled with things to see, do, buy, and eat , sometimes you need to get away.

There is a wide range of weekend getaway destinations near Singapore or at least within a few hours by car, bus, or plane. Families may want to consider a nearby self-contained resort destination like Sentosa Island , while couples might consider an island getaway to a place like Bintan .

Plan your travels with our list of the top weekend getaways from Singapore.

1. Desaru Coast, Malaysia

2. malacca, malaysia, 3. bintan island, indonesia, 4. krabi, thailand, 5. bali, indonesia, 6. sentosa island, singapore, 7. iskandar puteri, malaysia, 8. penang, malaysia, 9. hoi an, vietnam, 10. yangon, myanmar, 11. kuala lumpur, malaysia, 12. batam, indonesia, 13. johor bahru, malaysia, 14. yogyakarta, indonesia, 15. langkawi, malaysia, 16. siem reap, cambodia, map of weekend getaways from singapore.

This Malaysian beach resort is home to pristine beaches with clear, warm blue water, and it's perfect for quick getaways. The area has four resort hotel options along with excellent shopping and dining.

Getting to the Desaru Coast from Singapore is easy. It takes about two hours by car via the Causeway, about 90 minutes via bus, or an hour if you take the ferry (and then shuttle into the resort area). Once you're there, several complimentary shuttles can take you anywhere you need to go.

Aside from the beautiful beaches, the resort is known for golf with a full 18-hole course (designed by iconic players Ernie Els and Vijay Singh) along with three different nine-hole courses located along the coastline. Each course has its own clubhouse and extensive golf facilities including a golf training academy, driving range, and restaurants.

It's also a popular surfing and snorkeling spot, offering a range of water sports to visitors. For some wet family fun, the area is home to the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark .

Another top weekend getaway from Singapore is Malacca, a Malaysian beach city about three hours from Singapore by bus or car. It's a former Portuguese, Dutch, then British colony, and this mix contributes to its unique and fascinating history, architecture, culture, and food. It's filled with many museums, historical sites, and tourist attractions like zoos and water parks.

The Dutch and Portuguese history is particularly interesting, and many of the colonial buildings from the occupation by both countries still exist. You can even visit a fortress in Malacca; A Famosa is a Portuguese fort built in the 16 th century. On weekend nights, don't miss the Jonker Street Night Market , where all these cultural influences can be tasted in the form of street food.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

This Indonesian island resort is a great weekend getaway from Singapore, as it only takes about 50 minutes to get here by ferry . It's one of two twin islands (the other is Batam) that are visible from Singapore. There are many hotels and beach resorts on Bintan, and it's a very popular holiday destination. It's also a popular place for sea turtles; six of the world's seven species of sea turtles are found in Indonesia.

Bintan gives visitors a full range of vacation activities. There are spas and shopping for indoor fun, and there are also great water sports and outdoor adventures. You can explore the island's incredible nature and wildlife or discover its fascinating cultural heritage.

One of the coolest things to do is take a seaplane ride around the island. If you stay at a luxury resort, be sure to also visit one of the traditional fishing villages for a taste of local culture and food. Bintan has also become a popular golf destination with four championship courses.

Read More: Top-Rated Islands in Indonesia

This province on the west coast of Southern Thailand is home to some pristine beaches and island resorts. It's only a two-hour flight from Singapore, so it's perfect for a short vacation. It's on the Andaman Sea, and Phra Nang Beach is the largest resort area.

The Phi Phi Islands are also an amazing bucket-list destination, and tours to the islands from Krabi are one of the popular things to do.

There are also several national parks in the area offering mountain hiking. The clear, calm water also makes it one of the world's best SCUBA diving and snorkeling destinations.

Other destinations in Thailand like Bangkok , Phuket , or Chiang Mai are only a two- or three-hour flight from Changi Airport in Singapore.

The island paradise of Bali is part of neighboring Indonesia and is just under a three-hour flight from Singapore. It's a popular weekend getaway destination for Singaporeans, so there are frequent (and usually cheap) flights between the two.

Bali is perfect for luxury escapes and romantic getaways . The island combines spectacular scenery, wide beaches , big mountains, and, of course, a long history and fascinating culture.

There is a wide range of accommodations on the island, from cheap hotels to luxury resorts. Big beachfront resorts and luxury villas are mainly found in the western towns of Kuta, Seminyak, and Jimbaran. For a quieter, more intimate experience, places like Sanur, Nusa Dua, and the coastal area of Candidasa are good choices.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bali

One of the closest beach resorts to Singapore is only a 15-minute monorail (or cable car or Uber) ride away. Sentosa Island has several beach resorts, as well as family hotels and luxury getaway spots including an underwater hotel.

You can even walk to Sentosa using the Sentosa Boardwalk, some of which is an automated, moving sidewalk. More than just a route, the boardwalk has five lush, indigenous tropical landscapes only found in Singapore. It also gives you beautiful views across the bay, with lots of spots to stop for photos.

Sentosa Island is a great family destination and home to the Universal Studios Singapore theme park, as well as a few other amusement parks and water parks. There are several large beaches and a huge range of things to do, including lots of outdoor activities like bungee jumping and indoor skydiving.

There's also a lot of luxury shopping and a mouthwatering array of dining options, including family dining, fine dining, and even restaurants from some of the world's top celebrity chefs. Once you're here, there is a complimentary bus service and a beach shuttle to get you around. The Singapore Express monorail can also be used to get from one part of the island to the other.

There are also many free things to do in Sentosa. Aside from enjoying the beach, you can walk on the Fort Siloso Skywalk. The 181-meter (about 600-foot) skywalk is 11 stories above the forest. You get a scenic view of the trees and the harbor. The site is also quite historic, Fort Siloso was built by the British in the 19th century to guard the entrance to Singapore harbor. You can also visit the fort itself, which is now a museum and educational site.

Read More: Best Beaches in Singapore

This city in Malaysia , formerly known as Nusajaya, is the perfect place for a short getaway from Singapore for families. It's right across the Causeway, and you can be here in about 20 minutes.

The area's main attraction for family travelers is a giant theme park, the Legoland Malaysia Resort. This massive resort complex includes hotels, a theme park, a water park, and the SEA LIFE aquarium. You can visit them separately or buy passes with access to everything.

Iskandar Puteri is also home to Asia's only premium outlet mall, the Johor Outlets. It has outlets from many popular luxury brands selling discounted merchandise. There is also another massive outlet mall, the Sunway Big Box Retail park, with a lot of shopping options.

When you get tired of the theme park food, head down to Puteri Harbor , where you'll find more than a few excellent restaurants, many featuring freshly caught seafood. There are also a lot of dining options and restaurants at the Sunway Big Box Retail Park.

This Malaysian region, both the old town of Penang and its capital of George Town, is known for its great hawker (street) food culture and history. It's an excellent place for shopping, with both luxury malls and street vendors.

Take the funicular up Penang Hill for some great views of the city and ocean. Instagrammers will love capturing the city's many street murals. For more fresh air, head to Penang National Park for a breathtaking mix of rainforest and beach ecosystems.

It takes less than 90 minutes to fly to Penang from Singapore's Changi Airport (or about six hours if you go by bus). If you want to stay for a few days, Penang has a wide range of accommodations, including many luxury resorts.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Penang

This Vietnamese city is about three hours from Singapore by plane (most people fly into nearby Danang). It has the perfect mix of a wonderfully preserved French colonial old town, lots of lush countryside (best explored by bike), and some seriously beautiful beaches.

Hoi An also has great Vietnamese cuisine and is a chance to experience yet another Southeast Asian culture on a quick getaway from Singapore.

Halong Bay is another beautiful place to visit in Vietnam , a bit farther than Hoi An at three and a half hours by plane from Singapore's Changi Airport. It's also ideal for weekend getaway trips. Both destinations (and other places in Vietnam) also deliver amazing value for money and low prices for visitors.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Vietnam

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hoi An

The capital city of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) is just under a three-hour flight from Singapore. This seriously exotic destination remains relatively undiscovered for Western tourists.

This city is filled with temples and pagodas, the most blingy being the Shwedagon Pagoda , Myanmar's version of the Taj Mahal. It was built with more than 4,500 diamonds in its structure, including a 72-carat mega-diamond at the top.

As if to compete with the diamond pagoda, the Sule Pagoda is covered in pure gold. These pagodas are joined by Buddhist temples, interesting British colonial architecture, and a constantly increasing number of modern skyscrapers.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

Referred to as "KL" by the locals, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's capital city and it provides the typical wide range of activities (cultural, adventure, food, music, shopping) found in a big, cosmopolitan city. Kuala Lumpur is only an hour's flight (or a five-hour bus ride) from Singapore.

Aside from the great food scene and excellent shopping in KL, be sure to visit two of the city's (and the world's) tallest attractions. The Petronas Twin Towers were the tallest buildings in the world at one time and remain the tallest twin towers in the world. You can go up to the observation area for amazing city views.

Even taller than the Petronas Twin Towers, the KL Tower , also known as the Menara Kuala Lumpur, is the seventh-tallest freestanding structure in the world, which houses several observation areas and restaurants.

Batam (it's both the name of the city and the island) is an idyllic Indonesian island getaway from Singapore. It's only about an hour away by ferry and has some breathtaking beaches, delicious seafood, and a lot of outdoor activities.

You can do all kinds of things on the water, including sailing, surfing, and jet skiing. There's even a water ski park, with multiple cables that pull you through the water (no ski boats needed).

Like its twin island Bintan , it's so close, it's visible from Singapore. Batam is a free-trade zone, so there's some great duty-free shopping, especially in the main city of Nagoya. The beachfront resorts are in the Nongsa area.

This Malaysian city is one of the best cheap getaways from Singapore, as it's only 45 minutes away via car or bus. Like other Malaysian cities, there's an amazing food scene with a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Arabic flavors. There are also several museums and mosques that can be visited, including the large Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque .

The city is also home to the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple , the world's first Hindu temple covered in glass. The entire interior and exterior are covered in pieces of clear, mirrored, and colored glass.

A very popular tourist attraction, the Legoland Malaysia Resort is in Johor Bahru, as is one of the region's largest outlet malls, the Johor Outlets.

This ancient city is on the Indonesian island of Java, about a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Singapore. Ruled by a sultan, Yogyakarta is the only recognized monarchy in Indonesia. It's the best place to learn about and experience traditional Javanese culture, including art, textiles, music, and literature.

The city's history goes back to its founding in the 8 th century CE. Borobudur and Prambanan are two significant archeological sites, ancient temple complexes like Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist temple, and Prambanan is a Hindu temple complex built in the 9 th century. They're both about an hour outside the city, and both are must-see attractions .

Langkawi is a Malaysian archipelago of 99 islands located near the border with Thailand. This Malaysian beach resort near Singapore is a 90-minute flight from Changi Airport. The main island is Langkawi Island, and it's part of the Southern Islands area, which is popular with tourists. The Northern Islands are mostly deserted and not open to visitors.

The islands are popular with beachgoers, as well as SCUBA divers and snorkelers. Be sure to ride the cable car up Gunung Mat Chinchang mountain, as then you can walk on the Sky Bridge. It's a raised walkway allowing visitors to get a close-up look at the fascinating world of the rainforest canopy.

The destination really does have something for everyone, from tropical beaches fronting azure waters to nature reserves filled with protected flora and fauna. Unlike some of the other island getaway destinations close to Singapore, Langkawi offers visitors the full range of luxury resort options from all the major international brands.

This Cambodian city is just over a two-hour flight from Singapore. The focus in Siem Reap is, of course, on the amazing Angkor temple complex, which is actually several vast archeological sites including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. It's a popular tourist destination, so there are lots of hotels (in all price points) and restaurants in the small town.

An early morning hot air balloon flight is an excellent way to get a drone's-eye view of all the ruin sites. Cambodia's capital city of Phnom Penh is also an hour's flight from Singapore and offers an exciting mix of history, culture, shopping, and food.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siem Reap
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cambodia

Borneo is Asia's largest island, less than a three-hour flight from Singapore. The island is divided between Indonesia and Malaysia with a small part taken up by the country of Brunei.

It's a very special place ecologically, covered by one of the oldest rainforests in the world. These rainforests are filled with a dizzying array of animals, including the endangered Borneo orangutan. There are several sanctuaries on the island where the great apes can be viewed close-up.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the main cities on the island and a good place to start your Borneo adventures.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in June

Brunei is a tiny nation, a part of the island of Borneo, sharing the island with both Indonesia and Malaysia. Independent since 1984, the country has great wealth due to oil and natural gas resources.

It's a very safe place to visit and is just starting to appear on international travelers' radars. Brunei has also started to really make an effort to appeal to travelers, with English signage and speakers and good internal transportation infrastructure.

The big appeal here is the rainforests and sheer natural beauty. There are also stunning coastal areas. Both are filled with a variety of indigenous natural flora and fauna. There are a lot of options for outdoor activities and adventure sports, too.

Brunei is also home to some amazing culture and history, going back tens of thousands of years. To promote cultural experiences, the government coordinates homestays where travelers can experience Brunei's culture first-hand.

The best way to get from Singapore to Brunei is to fly; it's about a two-hour flight. You could combine a Borneo and Brunei visit on the same trip.

More on Singapore

Go Road Trippin’ At These 10 Malaysia Destinations From Singapore

Ready to visit neighbouring Malaysia now that the land borders have opened? 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 road trip destinations in Malaysia you must drive to!

Is it possible to drive from Singapore to Malaysia?

The answer is yes, of course! Since August 2022, all individuals no longer need to fill in the digital traveller’s card on the MySejahtera mobile application – meaning, they can now travel between Singapore and Malaysia’s land borders regardless of their 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!

Crossing the border by driving

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.

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

Travel insurance

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 get an EZ-Link x Touch N’ Go Motoring card at selected 7-11 outlets in Singapore. This dual-currency card holds two electric purses for Singapore dollars and Malaysian ringgit. You can use this dual purpose EZ-Link x Touch N’ Go Motoring card for parking fees, bus fares, MRT fees and ERP charges in Singapore, and highway and checkpoint tolls in Malaysia!

MySafeTravel and MySejahtera app

Don’t forget to submit your vaccination status on MySafeTravel and download the MySejahtera tracking application on your mobile phone before your road trip to Malaysia. The MySejahtera app is similar to Singapore’s TraceTogether, where you’ll scan a QR code to check in at various places. 

From Singapore to Malaysia: Best road trip destinations within five hours drive

Wondering where to go in Malaysia from Singapore that’s guaranteed to be a fun destination? 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 .

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

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 .

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 1 hour 30 minutes

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 Malaysia’s biggest tourist attractions. 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.

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

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!

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, you’ll be spoiled for choice when deciding on your dinner! Don’t forget to pick up some quirky souvenirs along this bustling street.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 2 hours 41 minutes

From Singapore to Malaysia: Best road trip destinations beyond five hours drive

5. kuala selangor.

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 where to go in Malaysia from Singapore! 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!

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!

You can’t leave out Ipoh on a list of where to go in Malaysia from Singapore. Known for a 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.

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 among tourists. 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

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.

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 where to go in Malaysia from Singapore 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.

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!

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!

Never had the luck of spotting a double rainbow? Why not 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!

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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 .

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

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

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

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. 

Start organising a Malaysia road trip from Singapore

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 pitstop 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 19 June 2023. Additional research done by Foo Pei Shi.

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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• How to Book
• Private Car To JB
• Private Car To Desaru
• Private Car To Legoland
• Private Car To Mersing
• Private Car To Malacca
• Private Car To KLIA/KLIA2
• Private Car To Port Dickson
• Private Car To Tioman Island
• Private Car To Cameron Highlands
• Private Car To Genting Highlands
• Private Car To Johor Premium Outlets
• Outside Johor
• Airport Transfer
• Full Day Service
• Innova ( 7 Seater )
• Alphard ( 8 Seater )
• Starex ( 11 Seater )
• Changi International
• Johor Senai Airport
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA/KLIA2)
• Travel Guide
• 19 Best Short Weekend Getaways…

19 Best Short Weekend Getaways From Singapore: Recommended Itinerary & How To Get There

Looking forward to the weekend but don’t know where to go?

Sometimes you just need a change of scenery to lift your spirits in the daily grind of city life!

That’s where we come in.

We have here a list of best & cheap short trips from Singapore and most do not require you to take a flight out of Singapore!

Not surprisingly, the majority of these holiday destinations are in Malaysia – Singapore’s closest neighbour!

Let’s get started to plan your short weekend getaways from Singapore!

Top 19 Weekend Getaway From Singapore To Malaysia

1. desaru, johor.

Desaru is a perfect place for weekend getaway from Singapore.

The distance from Singapore to Desaru is the shortest and there’s a whole bunch of things that families can do together!

Where else can you visit a fruit farm, eat the best Desaru food , stand on an ostrich egg at Malaysia’s largest ostrich farm and learn about crocodiles at the Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm all in the same weekend?

What To Do At Desaru:

• See fireflies at Kota Tinggi Firefly Park
• Stay at a luxury resort along Desaru coastline
• Visit a local fishing village
• Dine on affordable seafood
• Relax at Desaru beach
• Splash at Desaru Waterpark

2D1N Desaru Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm → Desaru Fruit Farm → Desaru Ostrich Farm (lunch too) → Check into your hotel → Desaru Beach → Kota Tinggi Firefly Park → Dinner

Day2: Check out → Adventure Water Park Desaru Coast → Back to Singapore

How To Get To Desaru From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service It takes an hour to drive to Desaru from Singapore. If you don’t feel up to the drive, you can book SGMYTAXI private car service for a convenient and pleasant ride there!

Option 2: Bus (2 hours) Departure Location: Singapore Flyer Arrival Location: Adventure Park Desaru Coast

2. Malacca, Melaka

A one-day trip to Malacca is doable if you plan ahead and it should be on your list of weekend getaway from Singapore.

Many Malacca attractions are walking distance from each other!

Do some shopping at good old Jonker Street in between snacking on Malacca’s best food .

Else, you can take a moment to do some people-watching at any Melaka café .

What To Do At Malacca:

• Get a one-of-a-kind printed tee at the Orangutan House
• Delight your palate with Nyonya food
• Visit a heritage museum like the Baba and Nyonya Museum
• Walk among the ruins of St Paul’s church upon a hilltop
• Take the cliché cruise down Malacca river

2D1N Malacca Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Malacca (Check-in) → Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum → A’famosa Historic Fort → St Paul’s Church → Red Square → Baba and Nyonya Museum → Melaka River Cruise → Jonker Street Night Market

Also read:  61 Johor Bahru Night Market

Day 2: Floating Mosque → Cheng Ho Museum → Kampung Kling Mosque → Back to Singapore

How To Get To Malacca From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service Driving will take approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Book a private car service with SGMYTAXI on WhatsApp right now!

Option 2: Bus (4 hours) Departure Location: Queen Street Bus Terminal Arrival Location: Melaka Sentral

3. Tioman Island, Pahang

Come to Tioman Island and learn how to dive or snorkel at stunning dive sites !

Or just catch up on reading as you make yourself comfortable on the super-soft fine sand or in a hammock strung between tall palm trees.

There’s a high chance that you will not run out of things to do on Tioman Island !

What To Do On Tioman Island:

• Share diving tales with other travellers over a bonfire or drinks at a beachside pub
• Visit the turtle hatchery at Juara Village
• Go island hopping
• See turtles at the Marine Park Centre in Tekek Village
• Do some jungle hiking
• Play an energetic round of beach volleyball

Also read:  3D2N Singapore To Tioman Island Full Itinerary Best & Cheap Itinerary Starting From S$81

How To Get To Tioman Island From Singapore:

Step1: Option 1: Private Car Service Depending on the traffic at the Johor-Singapore causeway , it can take 2 to 4 hours to reach Mersing Jetty .

Allow another 30 minutes ’ drive if you wish to get to Tanjung Gemok Jetty (Teluk Gading Jetty) instead.

Need a direct service from your house in Singapore to either jetty? Make an online booking with SGMYTAXI.

Option 2: Bus (4-6 hours) Departure Location: Plaza Singapore, Bugis MRT, Singapore Flyer, Golden Mile Tower Arrival Location: Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty (Teluk Gading Jetty)

Step 2: Ferry: 1.5-2 hours Departure Location: Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty (Teluk Gading Jetty) Arrival Location (Tioman Island):

• Genting Pier
• Air Batang Pier
• Salang Pier

4. Rawa Island, Johor

Rawa Island is the more exclusive alternative to Tioman Island.

You really get a sense of strong island vibes here!

The journey from Singapore to Rawa Island is shorter too and become a popular place for a weekend getaway near Singapore!

Both resorts on the island offer  Rawa Island packages that include the speedboat ride from the jetty to the respective resort!

What To Do on Rawa Island:

• Go for a walk around or to the top of the island
• Play on the 2 oceans slides in front of Rawa Island Resort

• Enjoy a special island cocktail
• Join in the weekend parties at Alang’s Rawa Resort
• Snorkel straight from the beach
• Island hop to Mensirip Island

How To Get To Rawa Island From Singapore:

Step 1: Option 1: Private Car Service to Mersing Jetty You can take a private car service to Mersing Jetty.

The journey can take 2 to 4 hours if traffic is light. Choose from the fleet of MPV cars that SGMYTAXI offers.

Option 2: Bus (4-6 hours) Departure Location: Plaza Singapore, Bugis MRT, Singapore Flyer, Golden Mile Tower Arrival Location: Mersing Jetty

Step 2: Speedboat: 20 minutes Departure Location: Mersing Jetty Arrival Location: Alang’s Rawa Resort or Rawa Island Resort

5. Legoland, Malaysia

Travel time from Singapore to Legoland can vary dramatically depending on the date that you choose and how you plan to go !

But once you get there, you will have an awesome time with your family trying out all the rides!

See a full review for Legoland Malaysia.

Also read: Singapore To Legoland By Taxi, Private Car & Other Methods (12 Complete Guidelines)

What To Do At Legoland Malaysia:

• See tiny replicas of world-renowned landmarks at Miniland
• Stay a night at the Ninjago themed hotel
• Cool off at the water park next door
• Visit Legoland Malaysia’s latest attraction, Sea Life

2D1N Legoland Itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the main park – there’s more to do here than you think!

Day 2: Have a look at the ocean aquariums at Sea Life with a couple of hours at the water park!

How To Get To Legoland Malaysia From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service If you go on a weekday, it can take as little as 30 minutes to drive to Legoland from Singapore .

This does not include the time you need for the immigration clearance at the border or delays from traffic congestion at the border!

Contact SGMYTAXI for a private car service , you can even include a little shopping on the way!

Option 2: Bus (1 hour) Departure Location: Singapore Flyer Arrival Location: Legoland

6. Sibu Island

Sibu Island is a lesser-known island paradise that’s actually closer to Singapore than the other two islands along the east coast of Johor !

This is truly an unspoilt paradise ! They don’t even have restaurants and shops here!

If you’re planning a honeymoon surprise or a private function, consider Sibu Island!

What To Do On Sibu Island:

• Visit a kelong (offshore fishing platform)
• Play a rousing game of beach volleyball
• Engage in some water activities like canoeing, sailing, fishing, snorkeling, etc

• Charter an island-hopping trip
• Go for a jungle trek

3D2N Itinerary For Sibu Island:

Day 1: Get to Tanjung Leman Jetty → Stretch out your legs with a hike → Enjoy your resort

Image credits: saripacifica.com

Day 2: Go island-hopping → Snorkeling by the shipwrecks that dot the waters here!

Day 3: Squeeze in another swim → Check out → Singapore

How To Get To Sibu Island From Singapore:

Step 1: Option 1: Private Car Service to Tanjung Leman Jetty Roughly 2 hours away from Singapore, you can save a lot of time if you decide to drive or take a private car service instead of the bus!

With SGMYTAXI, you can hire private car service at reasonable rates !

Option 2: Bus (4-5 hours) Departure Location: Queen Street Bus Terminal Arrival Location: Kota Tinggi or Mersing

Step 2: Boat: 20 to 45 minutes Departure Location: Tanjung Leman Jetty Arrival Location: Sibu Island

7. Endau Rompin National Park, Johor

Endau Rompin National Park (Known locally as Taman Negara Endau Rompin ) is 870 square kilometres ’ of pristine tropical rainforest with multitudes of animals and plants.

An indigenous tribe called the Jakun live here too.

Nature lovers and adventure seekers will not want to miss out on this place!

What To Do At Endau Rompin National Park:

• Set up camp in one of the designated camping sites
• Jungle trek to a waterfall
• Mountain climb
• Witness the o rang a sli way of life
• Tube down a river
• Go on a night walk

2D1N Endau Rompin National Park Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Endau Rompin → Check in to your chosen campsite → Start a hike → Go for a swim → Join a night walk

Day 2: 4WD off-road adventure excursion → Float on a tube at the river → Back to Singapore

How To Get To Endau Rompin National Park From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service There are many entrances to the national park. With a private car service , you can sit back and relax all through the ~3 hour drive.

These are the available routes:

• Singapore to Endau Rompin National Park ( Peta ) office in Kahang
• Singapore to Endau Rompin National Park ( Selai ) office in Bekok

Hop on a 4WD from either office to enter the park.

Also read:  Tanjung Piai National Park (Attraction Near Kukup Johor)

Option 2: Bus (~6 hours)

Departure Location: Queen Street Bus Terminal Transit Location: Johor Larkin Terminal Arrival Location: Terminal Bus Kluang

8. Kota Tinggi, Johor

Can’t get enough of the great outdoors?

Kota Tinggi has some hiking spots that present varying degrees of difficulty. And did we mention Kota Tinggi waterfalls?

The trip from Singapore to Kota Tinggi doesn’t take too long either!

Things To Do In Kota Tinggi:

• Go on a boat trip out to the mangroves to see fireflies ( Kota Tinggi Firefly Park or Sungai Lebam Wetlands )
• Have a glamping experience with Canopy Tribes
• See beautiful displays at the Kota Tinggi Museum
• Reach the peak of Mount Panti (Gunung Panti)

2D1N Kota Tinggi Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Kota Tinggi (lunch) → Kota Tinggi Waterfall → Kota Tinggi Firefly Park

Day 2: Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh (breakfast) → Mount Panti (hike) → Kota Tinggi town (Lunch) → Kota Tinggi Museum → Back to Singapore

How To Get To Kota Tinggi From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service An hour is all you need to get to Kota Tinggi assuming there isn’t any congestion at the causeway link between Johor and Singapore.

Leave the driving to an experienced driver from a private car service like SGMYTAXI if you want to save all your energy to enjoy your trip!

Also read:  How To Go To Kota Tinggi From Singapore

Option 2: Bus (~3 hours) Departure Location: Queen Street Bus Terminal, Kranji MRT Station Transit Location: Johor Larkin Terminal Arrival Location: Kota Tinggi

9. Eco Farm, Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru has an impressive number of eco parks .

You can even stay overnight at some of these farms!

Learn what it takes to run a farm while getting some recreational fun !

If you’re looking for a cheap weekend getaway from Singapore, these eco-parks should be your best choice.

Eco farms in Johor Bahru:

• HS Farmstay
• Sri Tanjung Leisure Farm

• Desaru Fruit Farm

• Zenxin Organic Farm

Admittedly, there is a considerable distance to cover from Singapore to Kukup but this is one place you have to include in your Pontian trip !

Kukup is a rural fishing village that has a double purpose as a harbour for cargo boats and ships.

Visitors can check out the dried and fresh seafood for sale at the seaside restaurants and shops!

What To Do At Kukup:

• Try fishing at a kelong
• Eat fresh and affordable seafood
• Buy keropok and belacan
• Admire the sunset here
• See and maybe touch unusual sea creatures at a fish farm

2D1N Kukup Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Kukup → Explore the village and indulge in some local snacks like fried shrimp cake → Walk through the mangroves at Kukup National Park → Seafood barbeque at your resort

Day 2: Breakfast → Fish farm → Buy some local goods → Seafood lunch → Singapore

How To Get To Kukup From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service A mere 40 minutes is the expected duration if you plan to drive to Kukup yourself from Singapore.

In general, it is less hassle if you hire a private car service as they can pick you up wherever and whenever you wish and they know the roads better!

See reviews on the service by SGMYTAXI .

Option 2: Bus (~3 hours excluding immigration clearance) Departure Location: Kranji MRT Station Transit Location: Larkin Terminal followed by Tuas Checkpoint Arrival Location: Pontian

11. Genting Highlands, Pahang

To some, Genting Highlands ’ greatest appeal may be the legal casinos or the theme parks but ultimately, it’s a cool retreat for short weekend getaway from Singapore!

The temperatures here are comfortably chilly all year round !

And a dose of fresh mountain air might be just the thing you need to reset your mood!

What To Do At Genting Highlands:

• Bring your family to Genting Outdoor Theme Park or First World Indoor Theme Park
• Shop at First World Plaza
• Catch a show at the performing arts theatre ( Arena of Stars )
• Stop by beautiful Fraser’s Hill on your way up or down
• Detour to an elephant sanctuary ( Kuala Gandah ) enroute to Genting Highlands
• Shop at the Genting Highlands Premium Outlets !

3D2N Genting Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Berjaya Hills , Bukit Tinggi → See a rabbit farm or the Japanese tea house → Stay overnight

Day 2: Genting Highlands – Try out the theme park or the casino!

Day 3: Genting Highlands → Kuala Gandah elephant sanctuary → Batu Caves → Singapore.

How To Get To Genting Highlands From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service 5-6 hours is not a drive you should take lightly! It’s windy and steep too.

Leave it to an experienced driver from SGMYTAXI private car service instead!

Option 2: Bus (6.5hours) Departure Location: Golden Mile Tower Arrival Location: Genting Highlands

12. Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s vibrant capital city, Kuala Lumpur is a shopping paradise for Singaporeans!

There’s a lot more to see than just the majestic Petronas Twin Towers here!

You can make a quick detour to Malacca too during your road trip from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur !

What To Do At Kuala Lumpur:

• Pick up handicrafts at the Central Market
• Explore Little India and Chinatown
• Check out the nightlife at Bukit Bintang
• Visit the butterfly reserve, bird park or national zoo
• Give your kids a chance to use up their energy at Jump Street !

2D1N Kuala Lumpur Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Kuala Lumpur –Petronas Twin Towers, Menara KL Tower and Sultan Ahmad Samad Building at Merdeka Square → Central Market → Petaling Street → Jalan Alor (hawker fare), Bukit Bintang → Check out the night scene (night clubs, bars, late-night mamak restaurants, etc)

• If you still have time, then make a quick visit to the national museum too!
• Skybar is a rooftop bar with an amazing view of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline

Day 2: Kuala Lumpur → Batu Caves or Kuala Lumpur Bird Park → Pavilion KL (Shopping) → Singapore.

How To Get To Kuala Lumpur From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service It’s almost 4 hours to reach Kuala Lumpur from Singapore.

Unless you’re just travelling alone, it might be worthwhile to book a private car service from SGMYTAXI to provide direct transfer !

Option 2: Bus (~5 hours 15 minutes) Departure Location: Golden Mile Complex Arrival Location: Jalan Imbi

13. Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan

You might be wondering if you should bother with making a trip from Singapore to Port Dickson in the first place but let us clear your doubts on that!

Port Dickson has its share of white beaches and other attractions !

It’s easy to find a lovely Port Dickson Resort too!

What To Do At Port Dickson:

• See the historic lighthouse at Cape Rachado
• Spend the day at Blue Lagoon Beach (Tanjung Biru) – shallow waters and rock pools!
• Picnic at one of the gazebos at Moonlight Beach (Pantai Purnama)
• Try some water sports at Teluk Kemang
• Visit the Army Museum
• Take some holiday photos at scenic Cahaya Negeri Beach (Pantai Cahaya Negeri) – Lovers Bridge

3D2N Port Dickson Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Port Dickson → Check in → Enjoy your resort

Day 2: Army Museum → Wan Loong Chinese Temple or Port Dickson Waterfront→ Blue Lagoon Beach → Saujana Beach & Saturday Night Market (if applicable) → Back to resort

Day 3: Check out → Cape Rachado (Lighthouse) → Singapore

How To Get To Port Dickson From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service It doesn’t take as long as you would imagine it does! The drive is approximately 3.5 hours from Singapore to Port Dickson.

Still, if you don’t fancy driving, you can go for the private car service that SGMYTAXI offers! Online Booking is easy!

Option 2: Bus (~4.5 hours) Departure Location: Concorde Singapore Arrival Location: Grand Lexis Port Dickson

14. Batu Batu Island

Another name for this island is Pulau Tengah .

If your timing is right, you will get to see turtles lay eggs on the southern shore of this island!

Batu Batu resort has special facilities that cater to guests with children!

What To Do On Batu Batu Island:

• Leave the kids at the play area under the watchful eye of hotel staff as you relieve pre-baby days!
• Swim and snorkel in the clear blue water
• Get a massage at the resort spa
• Rent a kayak to explore the island
• Join a snorkelling/ diving trip (Book at Batu Batu’s PADI Dive centre)

• Play soccer on the beach ( Long Beach )

How To Get To Batu Batu Island From Singapore:

Step 1: Option 1: Private Car Service to Mersing Jetty: Private car service to Mersing Jetty will take 2 to 4 hours during non-peak periods. Select your choice of spacious MPV cars from SGMYTAXI’s fleet.

Step 2: Speedboat: 20 – 30 minutes Departure Location: Mersing Jetty Arrival Location: Batu Batu resort

15. Sekinchan, Selangor

Kuala Selangor is far-off from Singapore.

However, there are enough natural gems to spend a whole weekend here!

One of the most popular attractions here is Sekinchan with its unbelievably green rice fields and rice factory that you can enter for a short tour!

What To Do In Sekinchan:

• Fly a kite at Redang Beach
• See the large wishing tree close to Redang Beach
• Get another perspective of the rice fields from the top of a Chinese temple ( Nan Tian Chinese Temple 南天宮 )
• Stay a night at Padibox
• Visit Bagan fishing village
• Get some souvenirs at Ah Ma House (阿嬤的家)

3D2N Sekinchan Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Sekinchan → Seafood lunch → Paddy field and factory → Ah Ma House → Wishing Tree → Redang Beach

Day 2: Bukit Melawati Hill → Sky Mirror tour (Sasaran Beach) → Eagle Feeding tour → Firefly tour

Day 3: Nan Tian Chinese Temple 南天宮 → La Familia Orchard (乡之旅果园) → Bagan Fishing Village → Hai Seng Huat Fishery → Mimi Fishball 咪咪鱼丸→ Singapore

How To Get To Sekinchan From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service Prepare for a long drive (~5 hours) to get to Sekinchan from Singapore!

You don’t have to be the one driving if you book a private car service with SGMYTAXI.

Rates are affordable if you are not going alone!

Option 2: Bus (~7 hours) Departure Location: Golden Mile Tower Arrival Location: Sekinchan

16. Redang Island

Redang island is under the Terengganu Marine Park some 45 km off the coast of the east coast of Kuala Terengganu .

The endless diving possibilities have put Redang Island on the radar of many international tourists that are keen divers looking to get their Open Water licenses!

Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan

What To Do On Redang Island:

• Trek around the island
• Book a snorkelling trip
• See the sunrise
• Snorkel at the Marine Park Centre
• Savour local food

How To Get To Redang Island From Singapore:

Option 1: Flight + Bus + Ferry: ~8 hours (Waiting/ transit time included)

• Get to Singapore Changi Airport (30 minutes)
• Fly from Singapore Changi Airport to Kuala Terengganu Airport. (~3 hours)
• Take a bus to Merang Jetty (30 minutes)
• Board the ferry to Redang Island (~ 45 minutes)

Option 2: Step 1: Bus (~10 hours) Departure Location: Golden Mile Complex Arrival Location: Syabandar Jetty

Step 2: Ferry From Syabandar Jetty To Redang Island: 1.5 hours Departure Location: Syabandar Jetty Arrival Location: Redang Island

17. Cameron Highlands, Pahang

There’s always something about Cameron Highlands that makes it so appealing to the masses!

Fresh air, cooler temperatures , lots of greenery , fresh produce, strawberries and many farms!

Luxurious European-style resorts make you feel like you’re somewhere distant without having to fly halfway across the world!

Cameron Highlands should be on your list of weekend getaway from Singapore.

What To Do On Cameron Highlands:

• Pick your own strawberries
• Sample wild honey at a bee farm
• Visit a tea plantation
• Have British cream tea with a cool environment
• Go on one of the abundant hiking trails
• Visit the night market ( Brinchang Night Market )

3D2N Cameron Highlands Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Ipoh → Cameron Highlands

Day 2: Boh Tea Plantation → Strawberry Farm → Short hike → Steamboat Dinner → Brinchang Night Market

Day 3: The Smokehouse (breakfast) → Watercress Valley → Lavender Garden → Singapore

• This itinerary assumes that you will take a flight between Ipoh and Singapore
• Brinchang Night Market is open during weekends and school holidays

How To Get To Cameron Highlands From Singapore:

Take a 1-hour flight to Ipoh from Singapore Changi Airport.

From Ipoh, it takes another 2 hours to drive up to Cameron Highlands with no heavy traffic.

18. George Town, Penang

Penang usually tops the list for first-time travellers to Malaysia.

Deep historical roots, bustling nightlife, loads of good food, decent beaches.

Its close proximity to Langkawi and Ipoh, gorgeous architecture are all viable reasons to make the trip!

What To Do In Penang:

• Locate the street murals ( Armenian Street )
• Visit Kek Lok Si Temple

• Eat Penang food like at Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul shop (Assam Laksa and Chendol)
• Stroll down Little India
• Head down to the historical clan jetties at Chew Jetty
• Visit Fort Cornwallis

2D1N Penang Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Penang → Restoran Hameediyah Tandoori House (Nasi Kandar) → Go on a mural hunt → Batu Ferringhi Beach→ New Hawker Lane Centre or a Nyonya cuisine restaurant (Dinner) → Chill at a hidden bar ( Out of Nowhere)

Day 2: Penang Hill → Tek Sen restaurant (double-roasted pork) → Prangin Mall → Skywalk tower (TOP @ Komtar) → Singapore

How To Get to Penang From Singapore:

Option 1: Flight From Singapore Changi Airport (~1.5 hours) Departure Location: Singapore Changi Airport Arrival Location: Georgetown, Penang

19. Langkawi

Does it even surprise you that Langkawi is on this list?

Langkawi is a tourist hotspot and also a great place for a short weekend getaway from Singapore.

The beaches are pretty, it’s affordable and there’s a tonne of things to do here!

What To Do In Langkawi:

• Spend time at the beach
• Do some water sports
• View the whole island from the Langkawi Sky Bridge

• Have an evening stroll around Eagle Square
• Go duty-free shopping
• Visit Langkawi’s Underwater World

• Check out a night market

2D1N Langkawi Itinerary:

Day 1: Singapore → Langkawi → Kilim Karst Geoforest Park (mangroves, limestone caves and formations, etc) → Island hopping (Pulau Dayang Bunting and Pulau Beras Basah islets) → Singa Besar Island (eagle feeding) → Pantai Cenang (sunset dinner)

Day 2: Hike at Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls (Seven Wells Waterfalls)→ Langkawi Sky Bridge → Oriental Village (duty-free shopping) or Kuah Town (more shopping) → Singapore

How To Get To Langkawi From Singapore:

Option 1: Flight From Singapore Changi Airport (~1.5 hours) Departure Location: Singapore Changi Airport Arrival Location: Langkawi

Travel Tips On Weekend Getaways From Singapore To Malaysia

• Public holidays (either Malaysia or Singapore) can significantly impact your journey times so do try to avoid going on a long weekend if you can help it!
• Short beach getaways from Singapore: Desaru, Tioman Island, Rawa Island, Sibu Island, Langkawi, Penang, Port Dickson, Batu Batu Island, Redang Island
• Nature destinations – Cameron Highlands, Endau Rompin National Park, Kota Tinggi, Sekinchan
• Family destinations – Legoland, Desaru, Kukup, Eco farms (Johor Bahru)
• Historical destinations – Malacca, Penang
• Shopping destinations – Genting Highlands, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi

You Might Also Like:

• 7 Popular National Parks In Malaysia (You Must Not Miss!)
• One Day Trip To JB (9 Famous Itinerary!)
• 27 Best Things To Do In Malacca (Where To Go In Malacca)
• Top 35 Places To Visit In Malaysia (Best Holiday Destinations In Malaysia)
• 15 Best Dive Sites In Malaysia (Secret Islands You Might Not Know)

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, easy short trips from singapore – no flights required.

One of the many advantages of living in Singapore is its proximity to a myriad of exotic getaways that can be easily reached in just a few hours for a reasonable price. Even better, some of these places don’t require you to get on a plane, which cuts down the costs even further.

Having lived in Singapore for over a decade, I’ve definitely taken advantage of this. I have been exploring quite a few of these places myself!

What is considered a short weekend trip?

There are many places that can be considered a weekend getaway from Singapore , but for the sake of this post I want to highlight trips with the following requirements:

• Must be outside of Singapore
• Does not require getting on a flight
• Can be reached in under 6 hours door-to-door from Singapore
• Places that I have personally visited , so that I can give my own honest feedback about it!

There are not many destinations that can tick those requirements. In fact, it filtered the list down to only eight places.

So without further ado, here are the places that I think can truly be considered a short getaway from Singapore:

• Telunas Private Island in Riau Islands, Indonesia
• Nikoi Island in Riau Islands, Indonesia
• Bintan Island in Riau Islands, Indonesia
• Batam Island in Riau Islands, Indonesia
• Joyo Island in Riau Islands, Indonesia
• Desaru Coast in Malaysia
• Rawa Island in Malaysia
• Malacca in Malaysia
• Tioman Island in Malaysia

1. Telunas Private Island in Indonesia

When it comes to places to visit in Riau Islands, most people would think about Batam and Bintan Islands. But if you truly want an exclusive getaway that is not crowded and doesn’t feel like you’re even remotely close to Singapore, you should consider Telunas Private Island .

Telunas is a small resort located on a tiny private island off Sugi Island. It’s actually only 50 km south of Singapore, but when you’re here, you will forget Singapore even exists. On this tiny island, there are only 15 overwater villas by the beach and 5 couples-only villas on the hills. However, it is still close enough to the main island that you won’t run out of things to do!

➡️ Interested? Read my in-depth review of visiting Telunas Private Island in this post

⛴️ How to get to Telunas from Singapore: Take the ferry from Harborfront Centre to Sekupang, then take a local boat from Sekupang to Telunas Private Island

⏰ Travel time to Telunas from Singapore: ~3 hours door-to-door from Singapore

🌞 Best time to visit Telunas:  October to April has the best weather, and the waters are usually clearest from December to February.

2. Nikoi Island in Indonesia

Nikoi Island is a small island located in the east of  Bintan Island . The perimeter of the island can be circled on foot in less than 20 minutes. The island boasts clear blue water, white sandy beach, and impeccable service – everything from start to finish is guaranteed to be a smooth experience.

➡️ What is Nikoi like? Read my in-depth review of visiting Nikoi Island in this dedicated post .

⛴️ How to get to Nikoi from Singapore: Take the ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bandar Bintan Telani, then a private car and a small boat to Nikoi Island.

⏰ Travel time to Nikoi from Singapore: ~3 hours door-to-door from Singapore

🌞 Best time to visit Nikoi:  March to June and September to November typically provide the best weather and water visibility

3. Bintan Island in Indonesia

Bintan is one of the bigger islands that is part of the Riau Island province of Indonesia. For Singapore residents, Bintan is famous for its concentration of upscale resorts and easy getaways from Singapore. The island can be reached with just a one-hour ferry ride from Singapore, and you’re off to a beach vacation!

➡️ Want to know more? You can read my experience of going to Bintan for a weekend from Singapore, and my experience staying at The Residence Bintan .

🛌 Where to stay in Bintan: The Residence Bintan

⛴️ How to get to Bintan from Singapore: Take the ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bandar Bintan Telani.

⏰ Travel time to Bintan from Singapore: ~3.5 to 4.5 hours door-to-door from Singapore, depending on where in Bintan you want to stay

🌞 Best time to visit Bintan: April to October

4. Batam Island in Indonesia

Batam is perhaps the most popular weekend getaway from Singapore. It is so close to Singapore, you can actually still see the skyline of Singapore when you’re in the northern part of Batam. Unlike its neighboring island Bintan, Batam is more known for eating and shopping. However, it does still have some nice resorts as well.

➡️ For more information: Read my experience of going to Batam for a weekend from Singapore

🛌 Where to stay in Batam: Montigo Resorts Nongsa

⛴️ How to get to Batam from Singapore: Take the ferry from Harborfront Centre to Nongsapura or Batam Center

⏰ Travel time from Singapore: ~3-4 hours door-to-door from Singapore depending on where you will be staying in Batam

🌞 Best time to visit Batam: February to August

5. Joyo Island in Indonesia

Joyo is a small private island off Bintan Island in Indonesia. Accommodation in Joyo is designed to be shared, so it is better to go as a group. In fact, it is possible to book a whole island! Joyo Island can accommodate up to 45 people at a time. I went to Joyo as part of a group of around 20 people, and we had a blast. We pretty much had the island to ourselves.

🛌 Where to stay in Joyo: Because Joyo is such a small island, there is no other accommodation option aside from Joyo Resorts itself

⛴️ How to get to Joyo Island from Singapore: Take a ferry to Bintan, then take a car to the jetty and a boat to the island

⏰ Travel time to Joyo from Singapore: ~4 hours door-to-door from Singapore

🌞 Best time to visit Joyo: Good all year round

6. Desaru Coast in Malaysia

Desaru was already a well-known beach getaway in Malaysia that can be easily reached from Singapore. I visited Desaru in 2010 and found that, back then, it was a pretty average destination. However, in 2019, the town received an update with the opening of four new resorts on Desaru Coast, which gives it a renewed appeal.

➡️ Want to know more? You can read my experience of going to Desaru Coast for a weekend here

🛌 Where to stay in Desaru: Anantara Desaru Coast

🚗 How to get to Desaru from Singapore: Take the ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast or book a private transfer from Singapore to go directly to your accommodation ( Crossing the border at Woodlands Checkpoint )

⏰ Travel time to Desaru from Singapore: ~3 hours door-to-door from Singapore, depending on traffic at the Singapore-Malaysia border

🌞 Best time to visit Desaru: March to September. June and August are peak months.

7. Rawa Island in Malaysia

Back when I was in my 20s, I used to go to Rawa frequently with a group of friends. The first time I went to Rawa, I couldn’t believe just how soft and white the sand was, and how the water around the island was clear and turquoise in color. It felt like I was living in a postcard! In total, I have gone to Rawa three times since ten years ago.

🛌 Where to stay on Rawa Island: There are two accommodations – Rawa Island Resort and Alang’s Rawa . Rawa Island Resort is better suited for families or couples looking for nicer accommodation, while Alang’s is more economical and better for younger people.

⛴️ How to get to Rawa Island from Singapore: Take a private transfer to Mersing ( Crossing the border at Woodlands Checkpoint ), then take a local boat straight to Rawa Island

⏰ Travel time to Rawa from Singapore: ~4-5 hours door-to-door from Singapore, depending on traffic at the Singapore-Malaysia border

🌞 Best time to visit Rawa: Rawa is affected by Monsoon. Although the resort is open all year long, the best time to visit is March to October.

8. Malacca in Malaysia

Malacca is a well-known weekend destination from Singapore due to its proximity to the Singapore-Malaysia border. It is so close to Singapore that you can even do this as a day trip. We went via bus early in the morning and came back at night, though I felt it was a little too rushed.

Malacca is popular for its food scene and street market. I was also told by a friend who visited recently this year that it now has a budding cocktail bar scene!

🛌 Where to stay in Malacca: Baba House Malacca

🚗 How to get to Malacca from Singapore: Bus or Private transfer directly to Malacca ( Crossing the border at Woodlands Checkpoint )

⏰ Travel time to Malacca from Singapore: ~4 hours door-to-door from Singapore, depending on traffic at the Singapore-Malaysia Border

🌞 Best time to visit Malacca: September – October

9. Tioman Island in Malaysia

Tioman is best known for diving , especially for beginners to get their certifications. The waters around Tioman tend to be clear with good visibility, and there are plenty of beginner-friendly dive sites. I personally did my Open Water and Advanced PADI certifications in Tioman, and I have gone back to the island twice since then for leisure diving. If you are not a diver – there are plenty of other activities you can do in Tioman, such as snorkeling and biking around the island.

🛌 Where to stay on Tioman Island: Japamala Resorts

⛴️ How to get to Tioman from Singapore: Private transfer to Mersing or Tanjong Gemok ( Crossing the border at Woodlands Checkpoint ), then boat to Tioman Island

⏰ Travel time from Singapore: ~5-6 hours door-to-door from Singapore, depending on traffic at the Singapore-Malaysia Border

🌞 Best time to visit Tioman: July – August

More Short Weekend Getaways from Singapore

Here are a few more quick weekend getaways that potentially fit the bill, but I did not include them because I have yet to visit them myself:

• Legoland in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
• Cempedak Island in Indonesia (adults only)
• Batu Batu in Malaysia
• Pulau Pangkil Private Island Resort in Malaysia

And that’s all I have on short weekend getaways that can be easily reached from Singapore! Please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions or even if you just want to say hi.

Until next time! 👋🏻

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11 Best Nearby Beach Weekend Getaways From Singapore

Looking for a beach getaway? Overwhelmed and exceedingly stressed by the number of tasks listed on your to-do checklist? Well, this might be your cue for a weekend getaway to some of Asia’s most gorgeous sandy beaches, all situated kinda near Singapore.

Sun, sand and fun. Let a short vacation reinvigorate and rejuvenate your poor, over-worked soul so you can get back to your job all motivated again on Monday. Your work isn’t going anywhere anyway. Here, we’ve helped you source for  the best and most awesome beach weekend getaways from Singapore .

1) Bali, Indonesia

For many people, the three words ‘Weekend Beach Getaway’ immediately brings to mind the wide expanse of soft, white sand that is contrasted with the cheery clear blue waters available at Bali. It is not surprising why either, given the countless number of gorgeous beaches found there.

Kuta Beach remains a firm favorite amongst the tourists; with restaurants and hotels that cater to all kinds of budget. Despite the massive crowds of tourists flocking to the beach, Kuta remains acceptably clean. If you want to return back to the office or school with that irresistible sun kissed skin, you’ll definitely fit right in amongst the hundreds of sunbathers and surfers spread out along the entire stretch of Kuta.

Alternatively you can check out the less touristy and crowded beaches at Seminyak (10 mins from Kuta), Nusa Dua (30 mins from Kuta) or Balanggan (3o mins from Kuta). The further away from Kuta you go, the more isolated the beaches are.

How to get there: There are direct flights connecting Singapore to Denpasar International Airport (DPS), the airport servicing Bali. From DPS, Kuta Beach is only a 15 minutes ride away in a taxi.

Travel time from SG : ~2 hours 35 mins (Direct Flight)

2) Lombok, Indonesia

Lombok island is situated to the East of Bali and it can be likened to being the less popular cousin in comparison. This essentially means that for people who really want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, Lombok will be the go to place for some long-awaited peace and serenity. No more rubbing shoulders-to-shoulders with throngs of strangers!

Mawun Beach is considered a hidden gem on the Lombok Island. People who have been there were awed by the pristine, untouched appearance of the beach. Furthermore, the sand has been described to be so soft that it’s unbelievable. After having read many articles which have raved about the Mawun Beach, even our interest is piqued.

How to get there: It is slightly trickier to get to Lombok Island directly from Singapore as there are few available flights that directly connect Singapore to Lombok. On the other hand, if you are in Bali, Lombok is just a ferry ride away or a short flight away. The best way to get to Mawun Beach is then through a motorbike ride from Kuta, the main town of Lombok.

Travel time from SG : ~2 hours 40 mins (Direct Flight)

3) Bintan, Indonesia

Located a mere 55 minutes away by ferry, the Bintan Resorts ‘ target audience is understandably Singaporeans. Once you’ve had enough of doing absolutely nothing on the beautiful beaches with white sands, you can also book various eco-tours such as the Bintan Mangrove Discovery Night Tour – where you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the enchanting sight of fireflies deep in the night.

How to get there: The Bintan Resorts Ferries (BRF) operates a regular ferry service that connects Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal all the way to Bintan Resorts. The ferry takes roughly 55 minutes. The ferry schedule can be obtained from the official website of the Bintan Resorts here .

Travel time from SG : ~55 mins (Ferry)

4) Tioman Island, Malaysia

Tioman Island offers many excellent beaches, which are usually situated at the circumference of the villages or sometimes overlooking the island’s resorts. One particularly well-received beach of Tioman Island includes Salang Beach , the best beach to be at for enthusiastic divers. Its close proximity to many reef sites and wrecks around Tioman, such as Coral Island and Fan Canyon makes it the number one choice for diving.

How to get there: The most convenient and straight-forward way to get to Tioman would be through taking a coach (bus timings and fares can be found here ) to Mersing Jetty and then a ferry from Mersing to Salang Beach. The journey from Singapore to Mersing Jetty takes roughly 3.5 hours, while the ferry ride from Mersing to Salang Beach in Tioman takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Alternatively, you could take a plane to Kuala Terengganu airport (1 hour flight), then take a bus or tax to Merang (45 mins).

Travel time from SG : 3.5 hours (Coach) + 1.5 hours (Ferry) = ~5 hours

5) Pulau Lang Tengah, Malaysia

Roughly 140km North of Singapore, Pulau Tengah is a tropical, sparsely populated island located within the South China Sea. It is now a private island luxury resort run by Batu Batu .

An interesting fact about the island is that it used to be a Vietnamese refugee camp in the late 1970s to early 1980s; where they stayed while waiting for a chance at a new life in Europe, Australia and North America.

Did we also mention that if you feel like it, it is actually entirely possible to explore all 8 pristine beaches contained around the island’s 3km perimeter by foot?

How to get there: Similar to traveling to Tioman Island, you’ll have to travel to Mersing Jetty before taking a ferry to Pulau Lang Tengah (about 30 mins).

Travel time from SG : 3.5 hours (Coach) + 30 mins (Ferry) = ~4 hours

6) Krabi, Thailand

We’re pretty sure that Krabi needs no explanation as to why it is the perfect weekend beach getaway destination from Singapore. Krabi appeals to everyone – from the lazy ones who prefer to simply unwind at the beach to those who are adrenaline-junkies. Similar to many places around Thailand, Krabi is a highly commercialized and tourist-friendly island. It is easy to get around and one of the highlights of Krabi would be Maya Bay .

Ever since the filming of ‘ The Beach ‘ in 1999 where Maya Bay was featured, the beach has sky-rocketed in popularity. The visibility of the waters throughout the bay is excellent, so for those who enjoy snorkeling and diving, this is your place.

How to get there: It is best to take a flight from Singapore to Phuket and then hop onto a 40 mins speedboat ride from Rassada Pier which is near Phuket Town to Maya Bay in Krabi.

Travel time from SG : 1 hour 40 mins (Direct Flight) + 40 mins (Speedboat) = ~2 hours 20 mins

7) Ko Tao, Thailand

Being less developed than Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan, the beaches on Ko Tao still remain relatively untouched. Furthermore, with its economy being almost exclusively bolstered by tourism, you’ll never run out of exciting activities to do during your stay. Think of hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving… Speaking of scuba diving, you can even be certified rather cheaply at Ko Tao!

Popular amongst backpackers, Sairee Beach has an exciting nightlife with many of the island’s bars and nightclubs being concentrated on it. Party-animals will be kept satisfied because it has been said that things can get rather wild.

How to get there: You’ll need to take a flight from Singapore to Koh Samui ( Bangkok Airways / SilkAir ) first, before transferring to a cataraman ferry to journey to Ko Tao Island. The ferry journey depends on which pier you are dropping of as well, and takes anything from 1.5 hrs to 3 hrs to reach.

Travel time from SG: 1 hour 45 mins (Direct Flight) +   2 hours (Ferry) = ~3 hours 45 mins

8) Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is a rather big island and it is one of the most visited islands in Thailand by tourists. There are so many beaches available; Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut and Choeng Mon just to name a few, within the island itself that you’ll be spoiled silly for choice.

With its clear and sparkling waters, Lamai will be the ideal choice for those who seek to swim in the sea. Also, an amusing sight can be seen between Lamai and Hua Thanon. Two famous rock formations: Hin Ta (Grandpa Rock) and Hin Yai (Grandma rock) suspiciously resemble, well, human genitalia. Definitely an interesting sight to behold.

How to get there: There is a direct flight from Singapore to Ko Samui ( Bangkok Airways / SilkAir ). Getting to Lamai from Ko Samui simply requires a minibus from the Samui Airport. Private taxi charters are also available for those who prefer a little more space to themselves.

Travel time from SG: ~ 1 hr 45 mins (Direct Flight)

Related Guide: 15 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Koh Samui

9) Boracay, Philipines

Often called “the world’s most beautiful tropical island”, the sight at Boracay is post-card perfect. Picture this: pristine, white sand contrasted against blue waters of amazingly different hues with palm trees dotting the entire stretch of the beach. That would be how we will describe Boracay. It does sound like a paradise. Some of the more thrilling activities which can be done on Boracay include para-sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Are you excited yet?

The largest beach on Boracay is White Beach , which offers excellent opportunities for travelers to swim and snorkel due to its crystal clear and shallow waters. Nearly all of Boracay’s hotels and resorts can be found on White Beach itself. These accomodations also provide transport to and fro many parts of the Boracay island so staying at White Beach would surely be a wise choice.

How to get there: There are now direct flights from Singapore to Boracay ( SilkAir / TigerAir ) and they will only set you back by approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes.

Travel time from SG: ~ 3 hours 50 mins (Direct Flight)

10) Cebu, Philipines

Cebu remains relatively unknown amongst beach-goers but we have a gut feeling that this will all change in the near future; simply because of the sheer number of beaches it provides. If you’re looking to get away from stress and crowded beaches in general, then Cebu is your place to go.

The beaches found at Bantayan Island are possibly the best beaches around in the country. All your worries and troubles will be swept away once you lay eyes on the wide expanse of gorgeous, white sand and brilliant greenish-blue clear waters available.

How to get there: There are direct and transfer flights from Singapore to Mactan-Cebu International Airport ( Cebu Pacific / SilkAir / TigerAir  / SIA ). A cab will be needed to get to the North Bus Terminal, where a bus will then take you to Hagnaya Port in the town of San Remigio in 3 hours. You can then take a ferry to Santa Fey Port in Bantayan Island. (We know, it’s troublesome but the hassle is so worth it .)

Travel time from SG: 3 hours 45 mins (Direct Flight) + 20 mins (Cab) + 1 hour 15 mins (Ferry) = ~5 hours 20 mins

11. Maldive islands

Technically not that nearby, but the travel time is about the same as some of the physically nearer beaches. Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean-Arabian sea area, with its capital Malé about 600km south-west of India. Its crystal blue seas are a famous honeymoon destination amongst newly weds, not to mention its isolated cabins that provide romantic privacy.

Maldives is made up of multiple islands and each island is occupied by 1 resort, so feel free to pick one (they are all pretty similar, and you can rent a boat to island hop if you want). I personally stayed at Furanafushi island in Sheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa. Prices are really steep in Maldives, and there are not much options in terms of food or entertainement except for what the resort offers.

However if you purely want to wake up to a beautiful beach view and do water activities like snorkeling all day right in your backyard, Maldives is the place to be.

How to get there: There are direct flights from Singapore to Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, also known as Malé International Airport. Thereupon, you will need to take a ferry or seaplane to your island depending on how far away the island is.

Travel time from SG: 4 hours 40 mins (Direct Flight) + 30 mins (Ferry) = ~5 hours 10 mins

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Written by gene lim.

NUS Psychology undergraduate who does not read the minds of others. She's a thrill-seeker who craves for that adrenaline rush right after a rollercoaster ride. Or, if that's not available, she'll easily settle for a delicious burger packed full of gravy.

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12 Ideas for Weekend Trips from Singapore: Short Getaways to Explore

Explore 12 exciting weekend trips from Singapore that are perfect for short getaways. From stunning beaches to cultural landmarks, find popular things to do and hotels to book through Traveloka.

Singapore is a great place to live, work, and visit. But sometimes, you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. That's where short trips from Singapore come in.

Many great destinations within a short distance of Singapore make them perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you're looking for a beach vacation, cultural experience, or outdoor adventure, you're sure to find something you like.

Destinations for Short Trips from Singapore

Here are a few of our favorite short trips from Singapore:

1. Batam, Indonesia

Looking for a mini-vacation that's a stone's throw away from Singapore? Batam, Indonesia, is the answer! Nestled in the Riau Archipelago, this charming island boasts stunning coastal views and an array of activities to keep you engaged. The best part? It's just a short ferry ride from Singapore.

Popular things to do Batam:

Batam is a haven for those seeking a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Make sure to include a visit to the iconic Barelang Bridge on your itinerary. This architectural marvel connects several islands and offers breathtaking vistas to swoon your camera.

And speaking of treats for the senses, a gastronomic delight awaits you at Golden Prawn 933. Get ready to feast on the freshest seafood Batam offers – a paradise for seafood enthusiasts!

After indulging your taste buds, why not treat your body to a traditional Indonesian massage? Batam is renowned for its wellness centers, where skilled hands work their magic, leaving you rejuvenated and ready to take on the world.

Regarding accommodations, Batam doesn't disappoint—hotels to book: Turi Beach Resort, Radisson Golf & Convention Center Batam. Turi Beach Resort offers an idyllic escape with its private beach and luxurious amenities. On the other hand, Radisson Golf & Convention Center Batam seamlessly blends business and leisure, providing you with a comfortable stay that caters to all your needs.

Turi Beach Resort

Jalan Hang Lekiu, Nongsa, Kepulauan Riau 29465, Indonesia,BATAM,INDONESIA

2. Malacca, Malaysia

Step into the past with a short trip from Singapore to the historical city of Malacca, Malaysia. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasure trove of culture, architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Start your Malacca adventure with a visit to the iconic A Famosa Fort, a remnant of the Portuguese colonial era. Immerse yourself in the region's rich history as you explore the well-preserved ruins and imagine the stories they hold. Next, wander down Jonker Street, where vibrant markets come alive with stalls offering everything from antique treasures to delectable street food.

Every trip to Malacca is complete with savoring Nyonya cuisine. The blend of Chinese and Malay flavors creates a tantalizing symphony for your taste buds. From savory delights like Peranakan laksa to sweet treats like onde-onde, your culinary journey here will leave you craving for more.

Hotels to book

The Pines Melaka welcomes you with its modern elegance and warm hospitality, making you feel at home. Meanwhile, Hotel Equatorial Melaka offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience, ensuring your stay is as enjoyable as exploring the city.

The Pines Melaka

33, Jalan Tun Sri Lanang

3. Bintan Island, Indonesia

Imagine a weekend basking in the sun, surrounded by turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Bintan Island, Indonesia, promises that, making it an ideal short trip from Singapore.

Popular things to do

White Sands Island is a true gem waiting to be discovered. Explore its pristine beaches, go snorkeling in its clear waters, or simply lounge under the sun with a refreshing drink. For adventure seekers, Bintan offers many water sports, from thrilling jet skiing to tranquil kayaking – something for everyone.

Nature enthusiasts will find joy in the Bintan Mangrove Discovery Tour. Immerse yourself in the unique mangrove ecosystem, home to various flora and fauna. It's an educational and captivating experience that will give you a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

Banyan Tree Bintan offers unparalleled luxury with its beachfront villas and world-class amenities. On the other hand, The Residence Bintan provides a serene escape with its minimalist charm and stunning ocean views.

Banyan Tree Bintan

Jalan Teluk Berembang, Laguna Bintan Resort

4. Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Adjacent to Singapore’s northern boundary lies Johor Bahru, a bustling Malaysian city known for its historical significance and contemporary attractions.

Popular things to do:

Families often find joy at the Hello Kitty Theme Park, where whimsical rides and shows entertain the young and young at heart. For those with a penchant for history, exploring the city's historical landmarks provides a deep dive into Malaysia's rich past.

Moreover, shopaholics can't resist indulging in retail therapy at the Johor Premium Outlets, a haven for branded goods at pocket-friendly prices.

Hotels to book:

For travelers planning a weekend trip from Singapore, staying at the Amari Johor Bahru or the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru offers a blend of comfort and luxury, ensuring that your getaway remains memorable.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru

12 Jalan Ngee Heng

5. Tioman Island, Malaysia

Off the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Tioman Island beckons as a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Dive into crystal clear waters and snorkel at Renggis Island, where the marine life bursts in vibrant colors. For those who prefer terra firma, the hike to Asah Waterfall is both challenging and rewarding, offering panoramic views of the tropical greenery. After a day of adventure, relaxing at Juara Beach, with its pristine sands and tranquil waves, is the perfect way to rejuvenate.

The Japamala Resort and Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort are excellent accommodation choices. Both are renowned for their picturesque views, top-notch amenities, and warm hospitality, making them favorites for those taking short trips from Singapore.

Japamala Resort by Samadhi – Adults Only

Kampung Lanting, Pulau Tioman

6. Pulau Ubin, Singapore

When thinking of weekend trips from Singapore , one often envisions crossing borders. Yet, Pulau Ubin, a rustic island a stone’s throw away from the mainland, offers an experience that's worlds apart.

The island's laid-back charm invites you to explore its trails on a bike, providing glimpses of traditional kampongs (villages) and diverse ecosystems. The Chek Jawa Wetlands is a must-visit, showcasing a unique blend of habitats and species. After a day of exploration, savoring fresh seafood at local restaurants is a delectable end.

While Pulau Ubin is primarily a day-trip destination, it allows one to immerse oneself in Singapore’s raw, untouched side.

7. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Malaysia, Cameron Highlands offers a cool respite from the tropical heat.

A visit here is only complete with strolling through the picturesque tea plantations, capturing panoramic vistas of terraced greens. For nature lovers, the mossy forest, with its ethereal landscape, is a must-explore. Adventure seekers can satiate their hiking urges at the cascading Parit Falls.

The charming Smokehouse Hotel exudes colonial-era vibes, while the Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands offers panoramic hill views, making both splendid choices for your weekend trips from Singapore.

The Smokehouse Hotel Cameron Highlands

By The Golf Course, Tanah Rata

8. Desaru, Malaysia

Desaru, located on the eastern tip of Malaysia's peninsula, is a sunny beach destination with activities.

The Desaru Fruit Farm is a sensory treat, offering a burst of tropical flavors. The golden sands of Desaru Beach are perfect for relaxation, while water sports enthusiasts have many activities to choose from.

With the iconic Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, you're promised an opulent stay during your short trips from Singapore.

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Jalan Pantai 3, Desaru Coast, Bandar Penawar,,Bandar Penawar

9. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi, Thailand's beach paradise, blends natural beauty and rich culture that draws tourists worldwide.

Railay Beach, with its limestone cliffs, is a sight to behold. For panoramic views, hiking to the Tiger Cave Temple is recommended. Seafood lovers are in for a treat with a plethora of dining options.

Stay in luxury at the Rayavadee Resort or enjoy the serene ambiance of The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort on your weekend trips from Singapore.

214 Moo 2, Tumbon Ao-Nang, Amphur Muang

10. Batu Ferringhi, Malaysia

In Penang, Batu Ferringhi combines nature, art, and gastronomy in a vibrant mix.

Adventure seekers can venture into the Penang National Park, while art enthusiasts can get lost in many street art pieces. The locale offers a tempting array of local cuisine.

Whether it's the luxurious Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa or the beachfront Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La, comfort is guaranteed.

Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Penang

Batu Feringgi Main Road, Jalan Batu Feringgi

11. Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi and Borneo are jewels in Malaysia's crown, each distinct in its offerings.

In Langkawi, the Sky Bridge offers breathtaking views, the Kilim Geopark teems with geologic wonders, and island-hopping tours are plentiful. For accommodation, The Datai Langkawi and Four Seasons Resort Langkawi stand out.

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

Jalan Tanjung Rhu Mukim Ayer

12. Borneo, Malaysia

Meanwhile, Borneo boasts of rich biodiversity. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, explore the lush Kinabalu Park, or enjoy river cruises. For your stay, Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa and The Pacific Sutera Hotel promise luxury.

The Pacific Sutera

No. 1 Sutera Harbour Boulavard

From Indonesia's verdant jungles to Penang's historic streets, the options for weekend trips from Singapore are as vast as they are varied. These 12 ideas we've shared underline the region's diversity, offering a palette of experiences that cater to the romantic, the adventurer, the leisure-seeker, and everyone in between.

As you mull over these destinations, envision the sunsets you'll witness, the cuisines you'll savor, and the cultures you'll immerse in. These weekend trips from Singapore are not just getaways; they're a call to embrace new adventures, step outside the familiar, and rediscover the world, even if it's just a short trip away.

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• 27 Surreal Places To Take Short Trips From Singapore In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Need a change of scenery while staying in Singapore? Take a break and visit these beautiful and quaint islands sans the horrible airport queues and long travelling hours. Several out-of-town spots which are perfect for relaxing and refuelling away from the stress of the city. These spots are great for people who aren’t looking for a long vacation but need a good experience sunbathing at the beach or hiking through the jungle. And they will make just the perfect short trips from Singapore that you will remember forever. You will find places that are half an hour to three hours away from Singapore. Check out the whole list and pick the best option that is suitable for you.

There are a variety of places to go from Singapore, to enjoy the best of an Asian trip. You can engage in shopping, eat a variety of foods, enjoy adventure activities and do a whole lot of sightseeing. Keep scrolling to take a peek at the list!

27 Best Short Trips From Singapore In 2024

Singapore is an excellent city for short trips for couples and families. If you want to experience all the fun that Singapore has to offer, you should plan to take some best short trips from Singapore outside the city as well. There are many amazing places to visit near Singapore that will add to your vacation experience. Here are a few suggestions to consider:

• Desaru – For A Weekend Getaway
• Cameron Highlands – For Its Tea Plantations
• Malacca – For Its Quaint Beauty
• Krabi – For An Island Getaway
• Bali – An Indonesian Paradise
• Bintan – Away From The Hustle-Bustle
• Halong Bay – For Scenic Beaches
• Penang – An Offbeat Destination
• Kuala Lumpur – For A Dazzling Skyline
• Batam – A Picturesque Getaway
• Iskandar Puteri – For The Theme Parks
• Yogyakarta – For A Thrilling Experience
• Genting Highlands – For A Complete Experience
• Perhentian Island – For Its Pristine Beaches
• Chiang Mai – To Relax And Unwind
• Sentosa Island – To Relive Childhood Memories
• Hoi An – To Explore the Countryside
• Yangon – To Relish The Culture
• Johor Bahru – Explore The Ancient Temples
• Langkawi – For Adventure Lovers
• Siem Reap – Opt For Hot Air Balloon Ride
• Borneo – Visit Oldest Rainforests
• Koh Samui – Perfect For A Short Getaway
• Phuket – Explore At Your Own Pace
• Ipoh – Resonating A Street Culture
• Hong Kong – A Lively City
• Macau – For A Mixed Culture

1. Desaru – For A Weekend Getaway

Image Credit: Jpatokal for Wikipedia Commons

Desaru is one of the best places for a short getaway near Singapore. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway, offering a relaxed atmosphere and sandy beaches that provide a break from the fast-paced urban life. The island is underrated, but its white sand beaches and azure waters have a soothing effect on the mind, making it one of the best destinations for a quick escape. This place which has amazing fruit plantations and posh golf courses is just a ferry ride away from Changi Ferry Terminal.

This place is a paradise for golf lovers as they offer great golf sessions for beginners and even seasoned golfers. April to October is considered the ‘good’ season to visit this place but June to August are the busiest ones. Snorkelling and surfing are some activities for adventure-loving people.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : April to October How to reach : Take a ferry from Changi Ferry Terminal Places To Eat: 261 Bar Restaurant, Desaru Coast Riverside, and Nelayan Seafood By The Coast Where To Stay: Hard Rock Hotel, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, and Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa Tourist Attractions: Desaru Beach, Adventure Waterpark, and Desaru Fruit Farm

Must Read: National Parks In Singapore

2. Cameron Highlands – For Its Tea Plantations

Image Credit: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen for Wikipedia Commons

If you’re planning a short vacation from Singapore, this place is a nine-hour drive coach ride may sound exhausting but it’s worth this great place which gives you the experience of the coolest weather without travelling halfway around the globe. This place is quite popular for strawberries and it also has huge tea plantations which is a great family spot. Cute little carts around Cameron Highlands sell delicious burgers which are finger-licking good. This is your perfect 3 days short trip from Singapore, if you’re looking for more than a weekend getaway, you can also match it with skydiving in Malaysia.

Your love of flora should lead you to this gorgeous lavender garden, which offers a wide range of lavender-related products as well as information on lavender’s medical and therapeutic applications. Some tourist attractions of Cameron Highland also include mossy forest, Taman Eko Rimba Parit Falls, Robinson Waterfall, time tunnel-the local museum and a butterfly garden that make for perfect day trips from Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : Throughout the year How to reach : Hire a taxi Places To Eat: Cactus View Restaurant, May Flower Restaurant, and Delicious & Happiness Kitchen Where To Stay: Kea Garden Guest House, The Lake House, and Century Pines Resort Tourist Attractions: Time Tunnel and Cameron Tringkap Bee Farm

3. Malacca – For Its Quaint Beauty

Image Credit: Engin Akyurt for Wikipedia Commons

If you want to go on a short trip out of Singapore, Malacca is the place. This charming and peaceful place is just a few hours’ drive away from the border and is surely a great short trip from Singapore for singles. A lovely change of scenery is exactly what this place gives to the visitors. The historical alleyways which are quaint and beautiful have hundreds of shops and stalls weaving through which add much more to the beauty of this place. Those looking for short trips from Singapore with family or as a couple would love this gorgeous town. Tea houses which show you the ‘proper’ way to drink tea and house-turned-museums which displays the culture of this place are some attractions of this island. Antiques and good food are also some qualities which add to the qualities of this island. Tandoori chicken and assorted curries are a must-have when you visit Malacca.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : April and May How to reach : Nearest railhead is Pulau Sebang Places To Eat: Nancy’s Kitchen, The Baboon House, and Low Yong Moh Restaurant Where To Stay: Hatten Hotel, Double Tree by Hilton, and Rosa Malacca Tourist Attractions: A Famosa, Christ Church, Stadthuys, and Church of St. Paul

Suggested Read: Markets In Singapore

4. Krabi – For An Island Getaway

Image Credit: Mikecleggphoto for Wikipedia Commons

Travelling to this amazing vacation destination is just a two-hour jet ride away! And is one of the best short trips around Singapore, a lot of activities like scuba diving in Krabi are offered on this island, and others include kayaking, hiking, rock climbing and many interesting activities which make your weekend a memorable one. One can also visit beaches like Ko Hong, Ko Poda and Ko Gai or kayak through the Andaman Sea.

This place is a great vacation spot for every kind of person from an adrenaline- junkie to a lazy beach person. Everybody has a great time on this tourist-friendly and commercialized island. Railay is nirvana for rock climbers whereas Ko Lanta is a place for wannabes. This place has something for everyone.

Location: Thailand Best Time To Visit : November to March How to reach : Buses are available from Bangkok and Phuket Places To Eat: Maharat Bakery, Chalita Cafe, and Gecko Cabane Restaurant Where To Stay: Krabi Resort, Centara Anda Dhevi Resort, and Aonang Fore Resort & Spa Tourist Attractions: Railay Beach, Ko Lanta, Ko Poda, and Tiger Cave Temple

5. Bali – An Indonesian Paradise

Image Credit: Paco Pater for Wikipedia Commons

‘An Indonesian paradise’ is the description given to Bali. This place is a very popular getaway destination for short trips from Singapore especially for couples who can easily plan a trip in Bali. Also known as the ‘artistic capital’ of Ubud, this place has astounding white sand beaches in contrast to the clear blue waters. A three-hour journey is all that it takes from Singapore to reach this paradise and have an amazing weekend. Stunning natural backdrops to exotic temples are one the main attractions of this place.

Volcanoes and jungles are also an addition to this great holiday spot. The people of Bali are more tolerant than people of the mainland of Indonesia. Balinese is spoken here but in tourist areas, many foreign languages including English are spoken. Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : April to October How to reach : One can take a flight to reach Bali Places To Eat: Restaurant Locavore, Secret Garden Restaurant, and Kubu at Mandapa Where To Stay: Nandini Jungle Resort and Spa, The Lovina Bali Resort, and Senetan Villas & Spa Resort Tourist Attractions: Uluwatu Temple, Mount Batur, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Suggested Read: Singapore Zoo

6. Bintan – Away From The Hustle-Bustle

Image Credit: WikiTravel for Wikipedia Commons

If you’re looking for a cheap weekend getaway from Singapore for your family, Bintan is just a 50-minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, this beach is a great distraction from the hustle-bustle of the city. Some fun activities offered here include bowling, horse riding and elephant riding. One can also book various eco-tours which show the beauty of nature present on this amazing island. Parasailing and water sports are some recreational activities here.

This place has a great mixture of cultures which consists of Malay, Chinese, Bugis and orang Laut (sea people). Bahasa Indonesia is spoken by visitors from Malaysia which is a version of Malay. Though this place is popular for golf, there are many sports activities provided by resorts which include Banana boat rides, Kayaking or kite ride. Do include in this your choice for short trips from Singapore.

Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : March to October How to reach : Take a ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal Places To Eat: The Kelong Seafood Restaurant, Warung Yeah, and Nelayan Bintan Lagoon Resort Where To Stay: Bintan Lagoon Resort, Nirvana Resort Hotel, and The Anmon Resort Tourist Attractions: White Sands Island, Penyengat Island, Trikora Beach, and Ria Bintan Golf Club

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7. Halong Bay – For Scenic Beaches

Image Credit: Lycaon for Wikipedia Commons

Why visit this bay in Vietnam? Well to answer just that, you haven’t seen anything like this in Vietnam even if you have visited the famed country before! With scenic beaches and limestone cliffs, this paradise just keeps getting better with views you will only believe once you see them from your naked eye. The fishing villages while on a private cruise are a must-visit and don’t forget to swim in the crystal waters of Cong Dam lagoon among many things to do in Vietnam . A kayaking experience all through the Tra San and Cap Lan will surely be a joyous experience making it one of the best short weekend trips from Singapore and hiking in Vietnam is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, if you are looking for the best countries near Singapore, just come and visit this captivating area.

Location: Vietnam Best Time To Visit : October to December How to reach : One can take a bus from Hanoi Places To Eat: 1958 Restaurant, 14 Pizza Halong, and Linh Dan Restaurant Where To Stay: Novotel Halong Bay, La Paz Resort, and Garden Bay Cruise Tourist Attractions: Sun World Halong Park, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Tuan Chau Island

Suggested Read: New Year Celebration In Singapore

8. Penang – An Offbeat Destination

Image Credit: HundenvonPenang for Wikipedia Commons

If you are looking for places to go for short trips from Singapore that you can reach quickly from Singapore, then Penang should be on your list of weekend getaways from Singapore. Penang is the hub of arts and culture. The colourful streets will surely impress you. Apart from that, it is also known for hawker food. Make sure you try the food there and also don’t forget to hit the best Penang beaches including Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah. With its vibrant ambience, Penang is undoubtedly one of the best places near Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : November to February How to reach : Take a train from Kuala Lumpur Places To Eat: Markus Restaurant, Orinea, and Sushi Kitchen Gurney Plaza Where To Stay: 1926 Heritage Hotel, The Gurney Resort, and Berjaya Penang Hotel Tourist Attractions: Penang Hill, Gurney Drive, and Kek Lok Si Temple

9. Kuala Lumpur – For A Dazzling Skyline

Image Credit: Luke Ma for Wikipedia Commons

Kuala Lumpur is one of the most beautiful places you can plan a short trip from Singapore. The capital city of Malaysia offers a glimpse into the fast-paced modern lifestyle. Its skyline is dotted with high-rise buildings that define its grandeur. Do consider this for your day trips from Singapore. Being a well-established city, this is a convenient place for short trips from Singapore with a baby, as all the needed facilities will be available and have plenty of fascinating places to visit in Kuala Lumpur .

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : December to February How to reach : One can take a taxi or bus from Singapore Places To Eat: Fuego at Troika Sky Dining, Iketeru, and Dining In The Dark Where To Stay: Regalia Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, and Pacific Express Hotel Tourist Attractions: Petronas Twin Tower, Batur Caves, and Bukit Bintang

Suggested Read: Free Things To Do In Singapore

10. Batam – A Picturesque Getaway

Image Credit: Ivetta Inaray for Wikipedia Commons

Batam is one of the smallest yet picturesque Indonesian islands to take a short trip from Singapore that will leave you mesmerised! The island offers serene beaches and blissful views that make for the best cheap short getaway from Singapore. It also boasts a lively nightlife.

Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : May to September How to reach : Take a boat or ferry from Singapore Places To Eat: Rezeki Seafood Restaurant, Piccola Stella, and Harbour Bay Seafood Restaurant Where To Stay: Harmoni One Convention Hotel, KTM Resort, and Lovina Inn Tourist Attractions: Sentosa, Fort Siloso, and Universal Studios

11. Iskandar Puteri – For The Theme Parks

Image Credit: Chongkian for Wikimedia Commons

One of the best places for weekend trips from Singapore, Iskandar Puteri would surely treat you and your family. It is known for the Legoland and Hello Kitty theme park. If you are travelling with your kids, they would love the place. Apart from that, the city also offers world-class restaurants that offer a lavish dining experience. It is one of the best tourist attractions near Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : October to December How to reach : Hire a taxi Places To Eat: Spice Grill, New Zealand Unlimited, and Olive Kitchen Bar Where To Stay: Legoland Hotel, Puteri Cove Residences, and Gem Hotel Tourist Attractions: Sireh Park, Puteri Harbour, and Legoland Waterpark

Suggested Read:   Historical Places In Singapore

12. Yogyakarta – For A Thrilling Experience

Image Credit: Gunawan Kartapranata for Wikipedia Commons

A popular place for a weekend getaway near Singapore, Yogyakarta will leave you jaw-dropped by its tourist attractions. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a water palace. Make sure you visit the famous Borobudur temple and for a thrilling experience, take a rickshaw and explore the streets of the city.

Location: Indonesia Best Time To Visit : May to October How to reach : Fly to Surakarta airport Places To Eat: Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil, Canting Restaurant, and Milas Vegetarian Resto Where To Stay: Yogyakarta BnB, Adhisthana Hotel, and The Patio Yogya Tourist Attractions: Taman Sari, The Palace Of Yogyakarta, and Fort Vredeburg Museum

13. Genting Highlands – For A Complete Experience

Image Credit: jetsun for Wikimedia Commons

Genting Highlands is an integrated resort development in the Pahang region of Malaysia. It has hotels, restaurants, shopping malls like SkyAvenue Mall and Genting Premium Outlets, casinos and amusement parks. Located on the Titiwangsa Mountains at a height of 1,740 metres this is one of the best tourist attractions that can be visited on a short tour from Singapore. Don’t forget to enjoy the exciting Cable Card ride. Hands down, a plethora of recreational activities makes Genting Highlands one of the top places near Singapore.

Location: Malayasia Best Time To Visit : March to September How to reach : Take a bus or hire a taxi Places To Eat: Coffee Terrace, Burger & Lobster Malaysia, and Restaurant Loong Kee Where To Stay: First World Hotel, Grand Ion Delemen Hotel, and Theme Park Hotel Tourist Attractions: Casino De Genting, Snow World, and Chin Swee Caves Temple

Suggested Read:   Festivals In Singapore

14. Perhentian Island – For Its Pristine Beaches

Image Credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for options on short trips from Singapore to Malaysia, this is an off-beat option. Falling in the Besut District of Malaysia, Perhentian Island is a group of gorgeous islands. The pristine beaches and azure waters are a highlight of this place. These are popular for their diving and snorkelling scenes, with some really popular diving spots. You can learn to dive at a very low cost compared to many other places. So, what awaits you? Plan an adrenaline-filled one day trip from Singapore to Malaysia and have an experience of a lifetime.

Location: Malayasia Best Time To Visit : March to November How to reach : Take a flight from Singapore and further a taxi and boat to reach Perhentian Island Places To Eat: Bayu Restaurant, Belinda Cafe, and Ewan’s Cafe & Restaurant Where To Stay: Coral View Island Resort, The Barat Perhentian, and Alunan Restaurant Tourist Attractions: Turtle Beach, Long Beach, and Teluk Keke

15. Chiang Mai – To Relax And Unwind

Image Credit: Fumihiko Ueno for Wikimedia Commons

Founded in 1296, Chiang Mai is an ancient mountain city in Thailand. Known for the remains of its past as a religious centre, this beautiful destination is perfect for a short tour from Singapore. Visit the elephant sanctuaries, forests and waterfalls along with its rustic temples. This is a great place to relax and unwind.

Places To Eat: Italics Restaurant, The Service 1921 Restaurant, and Sababa Hummus Where To Stay: Rainforest Boutique Hotel, Prestige Chiang Mai, and The Chaya Resort & Spa Tourist Attractions: Wat Chedi Luang, Doi Suthep, and Wat Phrathat Doi Location: Thailand Best Time To Visit : November to February How to reach : One can take a flight from Singapore

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Asia In April

16. Sentosa Island – To Relive Childhood Memories

Image Credit: dronepicr for Wikimedia Commons

It is one of the closest destinations to Singapore that lies in very proximity to the main city of Singapore and is certainly the best short trips from Singapore to take. Sentosa is an island that features multiple amusement parks, and beaches and is home to the famous Universal Studios Singapore theme park and water park making it one of the most remarkable tourist places to visit around Singapore .

Location : Singapore Best time to visit : June- July, October – December How to reach: Take the Singapore MRT Service. From Harbourfront Station, enter VivoCity Mall. Go to the third floor (Level 3) of VivoCity Mall. Purchase a Sentosa Pass. Board the Sentosa Express. Places To Eat: Malaysian Food Street, Ocean Restaurant, Din Tai Fung Resort Where To Stay: Harbour Ville Hotel, Siloso Beach Resort, and Travelodge Harbourfront Tourist Attractions: Universal Studios, Gardens by the Bay, and Sands Expo

17. Hoi An – To Explore The Countryside

Image Credit: Steffen Schmitz for Wikimedia Commons

This Vietnamese city is one of the most pristine locations in Southeast Asia. It is the ultimate beach and tourist destination that has ample sunshine, and a quaint French colonial town to explore with a lush countryside.

Location : Vietnam Best time to visit : February to June How to reach : Hoi An has no airport, and no train station either. The only way to get there is by road. You can hire a taxi from the neighbouring city of Da Nang, which does have an airport with daily flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other large Vietnamese cities. Places To Eat: Restaurant & Cafe Tuan, Thai Kitchen, and Cao Lau Where To Stay: Hoi An Four Seasons Villa, Sun Paradise Villa, and Hoi An Beach Resort Tourist Attractions: An Bang Beach, Phung Hung House, and Japanese Covered Bridge

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Southeast Asia

18. Yangon – Relish The Culture

Image Credit: Stefan Fussan for Wikimedia Commons

Yangon, the capital city of Myanmar, attracts thousands of tourists every year. You can explore the beautiful terrain of Myanmar by taking a three-hour flight from Singapore. If you are looking for countries close to Singapore, visit Yangon. Here, you can witness various temples and relish the culture of this beautiful country.

Location : Myanmar Best time to visit: November to January How to reach: You can hire a local taxi from Imphal till Moreh and then cross over to Tamu by walking. Once in Tamu, you can catch a local bus to the nearest major city of Mandalay. Directly via flight: There are direct flights between Delhi and Yangon which can be booked for as less than Rs. 9,000 per head if you plan Places To Eat: Green Gallery, Shan Yoe Yar Restaurant, and Le Planteur Restaurant & Lounge Where To Stay: Sky View Hotel, Inya Lake Hotel, and Hotel Grand United Tourist Attractions: Sule Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Market, and Shwedagon Pagoda

19. Johor Bahru – Explore The Ancient Temples

Image Credit: Zahirulnukman for Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for beautiful places to visit near Singapore, then there cannot be a better option than Johor Bahru in Malaysia. Johor Bahru is home to one of the most famous Hindu temples in the whole world which is covered with glass and that is Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple. If you visit this temple, then you will be mesmerized by both the exterior and interior of the temple as it is covered with different kinds of glass – clear, mirrored, and coloured. The place can be reached in 45 minutes by car or bus so there is less hassle to explore this place near Singapore.

Location: Malaysia Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: The best and most convenient way to reach Johor Bahru is by hiring a direct taxi or by taking a bus from Singapore to Malaysia. Places To Eat: Restoran Ya Wang and Tosca Restaurant Where To Stay: Berjaya Waterfront Hotel, KSL Resort, and De Sweet Boutique Hotel Tourist Attractions: Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and Angry Birds Activity Park

Suggested Read: Zoos In Phuket

20. Langkawi – For Adventure Lovers

Image Credit: Cheon Fong Liew for Wikimedia Commons

An archipelago of 99 islands, Langkawi is located close to the border of Thailand which can be reached within 90 minutes by taking a direct flight. If you are a beach person then you must head to this place for a short holiday from Singapore. You can laze around in the sun and opt for adventurous water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving.

Another thing that you can opt for is a cable car ride to Gunung Mat Chinchang mountain from where you can take a walk on the Sky Bridge. While walking here, you get to take a closer look at the rainforest canopy which is why you will find several nature lovers and photographers roaming around here.

Location: Malaysia Best time to visit: January to March How to reach: The best way to reach Langkawi from Singapore is by taking a direct Malaysian flight. Places To Eat: Pia’s The Padi, The Fat Frog, and Nasi Dagang Pal Malau Where To Stay: Bamboo Getaway, Panorama Country Resort, and Alamanda Villas Tourist Attractions: Pantai Cenang, Laman Padi, and Crocodile Adventureland

21. Siem Reap – Opt For Hot Air Balloon Ride

Image Credit: Anagoria for Wikimedia Commons

Another one on the list of places to go near Singapore is Siem Reap which can be reached by a two-hour flight. There is no doubt in the fact that Angkor Wat is the show-stealer here. Some of the other tourist places in Siem Reap are Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. One of the most thrilling activities that are done here is a hot air balloon flight which gives a bird-eye view of the whole Siem Reap. If you have an adventurous soul then you might not want to miss out on this activity.

Location: Cambodia Best time to visit: December & January How to reach: The best way to reach Siem Reap from Singapore is by taking a direct flight to the destination. Places To Eat: Georges French Restaurant, Marum, and Cuisine Wat Damnak Where To Stay: Popular Residence Hotel, Central Suite Residence, and Popular Hotel & Spa Tourist Attractions: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm Temple

Suggested Read: Villages In Thailand

22. Borneo – Visit Oldest Rainforests

Image Credit: Fitriyantibung for Wikimedia Commons

Did you know that the list of the best places near Singapore also covers the largest island in Asia? Yes, Borneo is a 3-hour flight away from Singapore and the island is divided into three parts that are located in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. You might not be aware of this fact but Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world and these rainforests shelter different species of animals including Borneo Orangutan. If you are a flora and fauna lover then you must explore the sanctuaries here to view apes from a close distance. Amongst all the exciting weekend trips from Singapore that one can experience, exploring the landscapes of Borneo is one of the best! With loved ones or solo, have an awesome experience by embarking on short trips from Singapore to exceptional destinations, like Borneo.

Location: Asia Best time to visit: March to October How to reach: The best way to reach Borneo from Singapore is by taking a flight. Places To Eat: Michi Japanese Restaurant, Ming Cafe, and The Raintree Restaurant Where To Stay: Gaya Island Resort, The Waterfront Hotel, and Manukan Island Resort Tourist Attractions: Mount Kinabalu, Taman Negara Gunung, and Gunung Mulu National Park

23. Koh Samui – Perfect For A Short Getaway

Image Credit: Fabio Achilli for Wikimedia Commons

How can the list of vacation spots near Singapore be complete without including one of the most iconic islands of Thailand? So, here is Koh Samui which is known for its classy beach clubs, luxury villas, white-sand beaches, and turquoise water. Along with this, the place also offers some amazing activities for people. Make sure that you are carrying your camera to this place as you will get many chances to capture the beauty of landscapes.

Location: Thailand Best time to visit: February to April How to reach: You will either have to take a flight or get on a bus to reach Koh Samui. Places To Eat: Supattra Thai Dining, Chez Francois, and Mr KAI Kitchen Where To Stay: Samui Bayview Resort, Chaweng Noi Pool Villa, Weekender Resort Tourist Attractions: Chaweng Beach, Wat Plai Laem, and Wat Phra Yai

Suggested Read: Sarawak Gawai Festival

24. Phuket – Explore At Your Own Pace

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How can one miss Phuket while looking for places to visit near Singapore? So, here is the Pearl of the Andaman which is popular for its pristine beaches and blue-green waters. Phuket has everything that you can dream of for a short getaway from the hustle-bustle of city life. Stay at a gorgeous villa, opt for kayaking in Phang Nga Bay, and get a perfect view of Phuket’s beaches from a state-of-the-art helicopter. So, make sure that you include Phuket in your list of places to go near Singapore.

Location: Thailand Best time to visit: November to April How to reach: There are several ways to reach Phuket which includes bus, ferry, subway, aeroplane, car, and train. Places To Eat: Suay Restaurant and One Chun Cafe & Restaurant Where To Stay: Blue Monkey Hub & Hotel, EcoLoft Hotel, and Royal Phuket City Hotel Tourist Attractions: Old Phuket Town, Sunday Walking Street Market, and Phuket Trickeye Museum

25. Ipoh – Resonating A Street Culture

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Ipoh makes it to our list of the top places to visit near Singapore as it is considered a mini-Penang. Being the foodie capital of Malaysia, you can experience a range of street foods, bars, local eateries, restaurants and cafes. What makes visiting Ipoh even more attractive as compared to Penang, only a handful of tourists visit. One of the best things to do in Ipoh , if not the best would be to admire the street art, culture, the caves and much more.

While at Ipoh, visiting the Old Town is a must with crumbly buildings, Chinese shophouses, street artists, grand colonial buildings and plenty of cool coffee shops. One amazing thing to explore is the Ipoh Heritage Trail – with the Ipoh architecture and the Ipoh Mural Art displays.   

Location: Malaysia Best Time To Visit : November to February How to reach : Use the ETS Train and Shuttle train to reach Ipoh from Singapore. Places To Eat: Pakeeza Restaurant & Catering, Sun Marpoh Restaurant, Yum Yum Restaurant Ipoh Where To Stay: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Meru Valley Resort, Ipoh Bali Hotel Tourist Attractions: Kellie’s Castle, Tempurung Cave, Sam Poh Tong, Movie Animation Park Studios, Kek Lok Tong

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In May In Asia

26. Hong Kong – A Lively City

Image Credit: Jim Trodel for Wikimedia Commons

Hong Kong has to be one of the best places to visit near Singapore. A vibrant, lively and cultural Asian mega-city, Hong Kong is a must-visit destination. Two of the best things to do in Hong Kong are shopping and eating at various restaurants. Taste the street food, the gorgeous dumplings, and visit the OZONE Bar, which is one of the highest bars in the world, located at the Ritz Carlton. You can also indulge in ferry rides, take a tram, ride the cable car and visit Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of the city. So, on your next short trips from Singapore, do not overlook Hong Kong.

Another reason Hong Kong makes it to the best places to visit from Singapore are the sightseeing options, beach exploration, the Symphony Of Lights, and Happy Valley. You can take your time in exploring this beautiful city to the fullest. 

Location: China Best Time To Visit : September to December How to reach : To reach Hong Kong, there is a direct 4 hour flight from Singapore with Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Jetstar, or Cathay Pacific. Places To Eat: CAPO TST, Yat Lok Roast Goose, VEA Restaurant & Lounge, Tin Lung Heen Where To Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, The Langham, Hong Kong, Island Shangri-La Tourist Attractions: Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, Victoria Harbour, the Tian Tan Buddha

27. Macau – For A Mixed Culture

Image Credit: WiNG for Wikimedia Commons

Macau becomes the answer to your query about what short trips from Singapore to embark on for a culturally unique experience. You get to experience a mixed culture – of East and West – the colonial Portuguese and the neighboring China. Although the region has a lot of glitzy casinos, the Macaunese cuisine is a delicious experience. The various restaurants in Macau offer a mix of both cultures including galinha à Portuguesa, Bacalhau, Macanese chili shrimps and much more.

Do explore the East and West Side, wherein the eastern side is dominated by the Cotai Strip and western side by Macau Heritage Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Center. Cotai Strip has a lot of resorts, casinos, shows, malls, restaurants and clubs while the Macau Heritage Center has Portuguese influence with Senado Square, St Paul’s church, and Guia Fortress.

Location: China Best Time To Visit : October to December How to reach : Macau is a direct 3 hour 45 minute flight from Singapore with Scoot. Alternatively, take a one hour ferry from Hong Kong to Macau. Places To Eat: Lai Heen, Vida Rica Restaurant, The Golden Peacock, Dynasty 8 Where To Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, The Venetian Macao, JW Marriott Hotel Macau Tourist Attractions: The Venetian Macao, A-Ma Temple, Monte Fort, City of Dreams, Taipa, Coloane 

Further Read: Langkawi Travel Tips

If all you need is a good weekend getaway where you make amazing memories, then these places are some amazing options one should consider for short trips from Singapore. There are spots to crash, for all kind of people from introverts to extroverts and from adventure-loving to lazy strollers. These islands give you the kind of weekend you need after a long stressful week. So, do not waste any more time, plan a trip to Singapore and go island hopping.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Short Trips From Singapore

Which are some of the short getaway from Singapore for couples?

Langkawi, Phuket, Bali, and Bintan are some of the best short getaways for couples traveling from Singapore.

Which are some of the short getaway from Singapore for family?

Batam, Johor Baru, and Malacca are some of the best destinations that you can surely check out on your next short getaway from Singapore.

Where should I go for a one-day trip?

You can go to Sentosa Island for a one-day trip. It is one of the most exquisite places to visit near Singapore.

How far is Bali from Singapore by plane?

Bali is 1680 kilometers away from Singapore by plane.

How long does it take from Singapore to Malaysia?

It takes almost 7 hours from Singapore to Malaysia.

Do I need a visa to go to Malaysia from Singapore?

Yes, you need a visa to go to Malaysia from Singapore.

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Malaysian King on two-day state visit to Singapore from May 6

SINGAPORE – Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, will make a two-day state visit to Singapore from May 6 to May 7 at the invitation of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.

This is the King’s first overseas state visit since he ascended to the throne on Jan 31 . It is also one of the last major visits before Singapore’s leadership transition. Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will be sworn in as the Republic’s fourth prime minister on May 15.

The visit reflects the excellent relations between Singapore and Malaysia and mutual commitment to expanding ties, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on May 5.

Sultan Ibrahim will be accompanied by his wife Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia; Malaysian Minister of Transport Anthony Loke; and senior officials.

On May 6, the King and his wife will receive a ceremonial welcome at the Istana, and call on Mr Tharman, who will host them to a state banquet. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and DPM Wong, who is also finance minister, will separately call on and host meals for the royal couple.

Sultan Ibrahim will also be hosted on a tour of Parliament by Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, and observe parliamentary proceedings.

He will also visit the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL), accompanied by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat.

The sultan will inspect the progress of the upcoming Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link project between Woodlands North and Johor Bahru during the visit, said Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry on May 5.

Some 40,000 people are expected to use the RTS Link daily when operations commence in December 2026.

The Customs, immigration and quarantine facilities of both countries are being co-located within the same building at Woodlands North, which is the northern terminus of the TEL. This will also be the case at Bukit Chagar station in Johor Bahru so passengers need to clear immigration only once, at the point of departure.

Sultan Ibrahim’s last official visit to Singapore was in July 2022 in his capacity as Sultan of Johor, when he was conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws by the National University of Singapore and had an orchid named in honour of him and his wife.

This state visit is the latest in a series of high-level exchanges between Singapore and its immediate neighbours.

It comes after the Singapore-Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat in Bogor, Indonesia, on April 29; PM Lee’s visit to Johor in January to attend a commemorative ceremony for the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System ; and the 10th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat in the Republic in October 2023.

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S$3B Malaysia-Singapore RTS link plan might be the world’s most important rail link to supercharge SG-MY economies

S INGAPORE: Over 350,000 residents journey between Malaysia and Singapore daily, making it one of the busiest crossings globally. And despite their proximity, the commute isn’t exactly a breeze. 

However, according to B1M’s YouTube video, $3BN Plan to Connect Southeast Asia , the new project, progressing towards completion by 2026, is touted as a “game changer for both nations.”

It will be a four-kilometre rail link between Johor in Malaysia and Woodlands in Singapore, initially proposed in 2010.

Currently, individuals must use either the Johor-Singapore Causeway or the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link (Tuas Second Link) to travel between Malaysia and Singapore. The latter was built in the 1990s to ease congestion on the 1 km Causeway.

However, despite these efforts, both crossings have become insufficient. What should be a quick 20-minute journey often stretches to a frustrating four hours due to delays, traffic, and lengthy border checks.

The new Malaysia-Singapore RTS link project is being developed to address these challenges by providing a faster and more efficient transportation option for the daily commute of businessmen and women working to supercharge the economies of Malaysia and Singapore.

Once operational, the RTS Link will carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour, significantly reducing travel times between the two countries.

There will be no more hour-long waits at border checkpoints. With new stations offering single-point immigration, the whole process will be smoother.

But how exactly are they building it?

Construction of the railway involves building overwater viaducts and underground tunnels. 

Each country oversees distinct sections of the project, with the bridge supported by a series of arches. Upon completion, the segments will stand 25 metres above the Strait of Johor.

In Singapore, 12 piers, three on land and nine over the water, are being built to support the 730-metre viaduct.

Pile caps, thick concrete mats serving as foundations, are placed at the base of each pier. They are supported by 161 piles drilled to a depth of 30 metres.

Workers in Singapore access the piers using boats and barges, while in Malaysia, a temporary trestle bridge was built to provide direct access.

A significant milestone was reached in December 2023 with the installation of a 17.1-meter concrete span, symbolising a tangible link between Malaysia and Singapore.

The B1M noted that the RTS link “might be the world’s most important rail link.”

The B1M also noted that the RTS Link represents more than just a transportation solution; it symbolises the strong ties between Malaysia and Singapore and the benefits of cross-border collaboration.

With approximately 65% of the project completed, anticipation grows for its positive impact on easing traffic congestion and boosting economic growth in Malaysia and Singapore. / TISG

Read also: SG vs MY shopping prices: Unresistable JB bargains Singaporeans sacrifice themselves for hours in traffic

The post S$3B Malaysia-Singapore RTS link plan might be the world’s most important rail link to supercharge SG-MY economies appeared first on The Independent Singapore News - Latest Breaking News

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Malaysia’s King and Queen receive ceremonial welcome at Istana during state visit to Singapore

Monday, 06 May 2024

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President Tharman Shanmugaratnam (second from right) and his spouse, Jane Ittogi Shanmugaratnam, with Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, and his wife Raja Zarith Sofiah at the Istana on Monday (May 6, 2024). - ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI

SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofia, Queen of Malaysia, received a ceremonial welcome at the Istana on May 6 at the start of his two-day state visit to Singapore.

The King and his wife Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, arrived at 10.45am and were received by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and his spouse, Ms Jane Ittogi Shanmugaratnam.

The King was accompanied by Malaysian Minister of Transport Anthony Loke, Malaysian High Commissioner to Singapore Azfar Mohamad Mustafar and other senior officials.

After the welcome ceremony, the King had a meeting with Cabinet ministers, who included Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli.

The King is scheduled to call on President Tharman on Monday (May 6). Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will then call on Sultan Ibrahim and host him for an official lunch.

This is Sultan Ibrahim’s first overseas state visit since he was sworn in as Malaysia’s 17th King – or Yang di-Pertuan Agong – on Jan 31. It is also one of the last major visits before Singapore’s leadership transition on May 15, when PM Lee will hand over to Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

DPM Wong, who is also Finance Minister, is expected to call on the King on Tuesday (May 7) and host him for breakfast. The King will then be hosted by Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng on a visit to Parliament House, where he will observe parliamentary proceedings.

On Tuesday (May 7), the King is also scheduled to visit the Thomson-East Coast Line and to inspect the progress of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link at Woodlands North terminus.

Sultan Ibrahim’s state visit comes ahead of the centennial of the Causeway – which was officially opened on June 28, 1924 – between Johor Bahru and Singapore. - The Straits Times/ANN

Tags / Keywords: Malaysia , King , queen , State Visit , Singapore , ceremonial welcome

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Follow our news, recent searches, malaysia's king observes singapore's parliament during state visit, advertisement.

Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar is the first king of Malaysia to visit Parliament House with parliament in session.

King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar (right) accompanied by Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan at Singapore's parliament on May 7, 2024.

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SINGAPORE: Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar on Tuesday (May 7) became the first king of Malaysia to visit Singapore's Parliament House while parliament was in session.

Sultan Ibrahim observed parliamentary proceedings, accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, and was taken on a tour of parliament chambers.

He was hosted by Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, who also delivered a short address to the House to honour the king.

Mr Seah said that Sultan Ibrahim was always an ardent supporter of bringing the people of Malaysia and Singapore together.

Singapore and Johor's partnership strengthened during the king's reign as Sultan of Johor, especially when both sides worked to keep supply lines across land borders open during the COVID-19 pandemic, said the Speaker.

He noted that Singapore and Malaysia celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Causeway this year, and 60 years of diplomatic relations next year.

"I'm confident that His Majesty's visit today is a precursor to even stronger ties between Singapore and Malaysia," said Mr Seah.

Sultan Ibrahim is in Singapore on his  first overseas state visit as king of Malaysia, accompanied by Queen of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofia, Malaysia's Minister of Transport Anthony Loke and other senior officials. He is on the final day of the two-day visit.

On Monday, he met President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and was honoured at a state banquet hosted by the President .

On Tuesday, before visiting parliament, the king had breakfast with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong , who will become Singapore's Prime Minister on May 15 .

In a Facebook post after the meeting, Mr Wong said: "Malaysia is Singapore’s closest neighbour and key partner. Our ties run deep, underpinned by a shared history, and reinforced by family and cultural links.

"I will continue to pay close attention to furthering our countries' relations as Prime Minister and look forward to bringing our bilateral relations to greater heights."

Sultan Ibrahim will also visit the Thomson-East Coast Line with Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat on Tuesday.

Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the king's visit reflects the excellent state of bilateral relations between the two neighbours, and their mutual commitment to expanding ties.

Upcoming bilateral projects include the completion of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System by the end of 2026, and the new Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone .

At Monday's state banquet, Sultan Ibrahim expressed his thanks to Mr Lee, who has been "a close friend" of Johor and Malaysia.

He also congratulated Mr Wong, saying: "I have every confidence that his esteemed leadership will further strengthen ties between the two nations."

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Daphne Psaledakis is a foreign policy correspondent based in Washington, D.C., where she covers U.S. sanctions, Africa and the State Department. She has covered the rollout of U.S. sanctions on Russia after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, Washington’s efforts to enforce its sanctions and the U.S. response to the conflict in Ethiopia, among other issues. She previously covered European Union politics and energy and climate policy for Reuters in Brussels as part of an Overseas Press Club Foundation fellowship in 2019. Daphne holds a Bachelor of Journalism in Print and Digital News and a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies.

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State Visit of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, 6 to 7 May 2024

07 may 2024.

His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, concluded his State Visit to Singapore today. During the visit, His Majesty met President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong, where they welcomed our long-standing and multifaceted bilateral ties and the good progress that has been made in bilateral cooperation. They welcomed the upcoming centennial of the Johor-Singapore Causeway in June 2024 and looked forward to the commemorative activities being organised by both sides. To kick off the commemorative activities, His Majesty and President Tharman unveiled the designs for commemorative stamps jointly issued by SingPost and Pos Malaysia to mark this anniversary. They also discussed areas for further cooperation. His Majesty was hosted by Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng to a tour of the Parliament Chamber and witnessed Parliament proceedings. Before ending the visit, their Majesties were hosted by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat to a train ride on the Thomson – East Coast line to Woodlands North Station, which is the Singapore terminus for the Johor Bahru – Singapore Rapid Transit (RTS) Link project.

.     .     .     .     .

  MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS SINGAPORE 7 MAY 2024

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam hosted His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia to the State Banquet. 

Photo Credit:  Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s call on His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia

Photo Credit:  M i nistry of  C ommunication and  I nformation

His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia’s meets with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong.

Designs of the Causeway Centennial Commemorative Joint Stamps by SingPost and Pos Malaysia were unveiled by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. 

Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng hosted His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia at the Parliament House.

Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat hosted His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim , King of Malaysia  at the Woodlands North MRT station which will be linked to the Johor Bahru - Singapore Rapid Transport System (RTS)  Link . 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

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