JB Beat the Traffic Itinerary: Breakfast, Shopping and Fun

Heading to Johor Bahru (JB) for a day trip, but worried about Causeway jams? The secret to beating that is starting early. By leaving Singapore at 5am or 6am, you can cross with ease, enjoy a full day of eating, shopping, relaxing, and even pumping petrol, then still be home before bedtime. Here’s a one-day itinerary to help you beat the traffic.

Also read: 10 Must-Know Johor Bahru (JB) Travel Tips for First-Timers

6.00am–7.00am: Cross the causeway

Set your alarm early and head out before sunrise. At this hour, immigration queues are manageable, and you’ll be rewarded with a calm drive into JB through the Woodlands checkpoint. Remember to have your Malaysia Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) and check your Touch ’n Go card balance in advance to avoid any holdups.

7.30am: Breakfast at Heng Wah Kopitiam

Heng Wah Kopitiam blends old-school charm with modern flair, serving up both nostalgic kopitiam favourites and creative breakfast twists. Their menu goes beyond the usual kaya toast. Think Peanut Butter and Kaya Butter Croissant, laksa meehoon, and classic nasi lemak. Pair these with their signature Hainanese coffee or teh tarik for a hearty start to your day. It’s a cosy spot that captures both tradition and innovation in one meal.

Price Range: RM3.60–RM18.90 (~S$1.10–S$5.74)

Opening hours: 7am-9pm

Locations: 260, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Also read: Top 8 Breakfast Spots in Johor Bahru You Need to Try

8.30am: Grocery run

Beat the supermarket crowds by shopping early. Whether it’s snacks, chilled drinks or household items, you’ll find everything at JB’s hypermarkets and usually at lower prices than in Singapore. Bring a cooler bag if you’re planning on picking up fresh items.

Also read: 8 Top Grocery Stores in Johor Bahru (JB) Near Singapore Customs

10.30am: Escape room or shopping

Challenge yourself at one of JB’s many escape rooms, perfect for puzzle lovers. Not your thing? Head to Mid Valley Southkey, a modern mall with luxury brands, cinemas and endless dining options.

1.00pm: Lunch & browsing

Grab lunch at Mid Valley Southkey or nearby City Square Mall. Both offer a mix of international restaurants and local favourites like nasi lemak and bak kut teh. After lunch, take time to browse the shops or catch a quick film.

3.00pm: Massage & cafe break

After shopping, it’s time to relax. JB has countless massage parlours offering affordable reflexology and spa treatments. Follow it up with coffee and dessert at a local cafe. Try Mount Austin or Taman Pelangi, both neighbourhoods known for trendy spots.

5.00pm: Wash car & pump petrol

Before dinner, stop by a petrol station to fill your tank at Malaysia’s cheaper rates. Many stations also offer car wash services, so you’ll drive home with a sparkling clean vehicle.

6.30pm: Dinner feast

Round off the day with a hearty dinner. Seafood is always a winner in JB, with options like butter prawns, chilli crab and steamed fish at local Chinese restaurants. If you prefer something fuss-free, try claypot bak kut teh or charcoal-grilled satay from a neighbourhood favourite.

8.00pm–9.00pm: Head back to Singapore

By leaving around this time, you’ll avoid the late-night rush. With a full day of food, fun and practical pit stops, you’ll find the journey home smooth and stress-free.

Final tip

Keep your shopping manageable for customs, and always carry both cash and card. With this beat the traffic plan, you’ll enjoy JB at a leisurely pace, with good food, great deals and a full tank of petrol.