Looking for nearby places to visit from Singapore? Why not take a refreshing day trip out of the city to explore something new and exciting nearby? From quaint villages in Malaysia to charming districts just a few minutes down the road, there’s a fantastic selection of hidden gems to discover on a boring weekend this season or during school holidays. Here are 20 of the best day trips from Singapore.
1. Kluang
This Malaysian countryside destination is less than two hours drive from Singapore. Kluang is a hidden gem known for its Kluang Coffee Powder Factory, refreshing hiking trails, ig-worthy street art murals, immersive farm experiences at the likes of Zenxin Organic Park, glasshouse cafe hideaways in the middle of the forest, and so much more. Definitely, a different type of day trip to take this season. Plus, you can catch the bus from Singapore in just four hours or take the fast train from JB Sentral.
2. Malacca
This coastal town in Malaysia is a UNESCO world heritage site known for its unique history and culture. Set on the Melaka River, discover the striking Melaka Straits Mosque, a 17th century Dutch town hall, the Famosa historic castle and safari and let’s not forget about Jonker Street Night Market serving scrumptious cuisine. Indeed, one of the best day trips but you’ll need to get up early to trek the three hour drive.
3. Kukup
Kukup is a sacred Malaysian fishing village just one hour and 30 minutes drive from Singapore. The seaside spot is located in the south of Johor and it feels like time has almost stood still there. Renowned for unique stilt houses, seafood restaurants, famous attractions like mangrove island Kukup National Park, exotic wildlife, and more…you won’t be bored exploring the coastal town. Be sure to check out Uncle Tan Orchard Stingless Bee Farm to learn about stingless bees and honey. Definitely, one of the best day trips nearby!
4. Pontian District
Whether you’re driving or taking the bus, this charming destination just one hour and 20 minutes from Singapore is the ultimate day trip. Situated southwest of Johor, the quaint district that boasts delicious seafood markets, quirky cafes and Buddhist temples to explore, and a muddy mangrove coastline offering beautiful bridge walks and wooden paths into the forest. Additionally, be sure to watch the sunset at Coxn Cafe, which is a stunning seaside eatery with a romantic feel, and visit Nictar Pineapple Park, to learn about the production of this fruit.
5. Johor Bahru
Another idyllic place to visit in Malaysia only 44 minutes drive from Singapore and just 18 minutes from Iskandar Puteri (also mentioned in this article). So you could squeeze both into your agenda. Wander the old town on Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street, enjoy skyscraper views and visit the instagrammable new Forest City, indulge on the thriving local food scene by café-hopping around the lush eateries, and much more. Definitely, one of the most affordable day trips from Singapore.
6. Kusu Island
Another excellent day trip is the beautiful and tranquil Kusu Island – which is just one hour by ferry from Singapore’s Marina South Pier. Dubbed Tortoise Island in Chinese, it is steeped in local myth and folklore, and offers the perfect place to relax on the beach, admire turtles, climb 152 steps to the Kusu Kramats Shrine, explore nature and visit an exotic temple.
7. Mersing, Malaysia
This under-the-radar destination can be reached by car from Singapore within two hours and 15 minutes. Mersing is a coastal town in Johor offering a variety of activities that showcases the town’s natural beauty and culture. Options include a picnic at Pantai Air Papan’s serene white sand beach, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, cliff jumping, visiting famous Taoist temples and Mersing River, admiring vibrant street art, to name a few things. Certainly, an exciting family-friendly day trip idea near Singapore. Plus, it could be a great weekend trip from Singapore.
8. Snowlim Wonderland
One top tourist attraction in Malaysia is a prime new family-friendly snow centre just opened three hours drive from Singapore. Seremban’s Snowlim Wonderland is the largest indoor snow world in Malaysia which aims to transport visitors to the ultimate winter paradise. The venue offers icy castles, ice playgrounds, enchanting zones, snow slides, and more. Get the full details. Definitely, one of the best day trip ideas near Singapore.
9. The Putra Mosque
Why not drive to an instagrammable pink mosque in Malaysia? The Putra Mosque is a feast for the eyes in Putrajaya just three hours and 40 minutes drive from Singapore. The hidden gem is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Kuala Lumpur. Get our guide on The Putra Mosque.
📍Persiaran Persekutuan, Presint 1, 62502 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya, Malaysia
10. Iskandar Puteri
This vibrant and sustainable Malaysian city is under one hour drive from Singapore. Why not visit one of the greatest attractions Legoland and the waterpark? After you can shop till you drop at a range of shopping destinations, dine at delicious restaurants and more before heading back home. Certainly, one of the most ideal day trips to Malaysia.
11. Bintan & Batam Islands
Whether you want a full day trip or a quick weekend away, both Bintan and Batam are the perfect agenda. From epic Indonesian temples to feeding exotic elephants, relaxing on gorgeous beaches, and more…there’s plenty to do. See our list of the best things to do in the Bintan and Batam Islands this season. Definitely, one of the coolest day trips near Singapore.
12. Cameron Highlands
If you want to be extra adventurous, why not hop on a one hour flight to the Cameron Highlands? There are multiple airlines offering routes for less than $65 each way. So, you could be back in your bed in Singapore before midnight. This popular tourist region offers a number of unique attractions and natural beauty. Particularly, its famous for its tea plantations where visitors can learn how some of the best tea globally is produced, against the backdrop of a beautiful highland. Otherwise, you can hike through forests and organic farms, visit museums like Time Tunnel Museum, ride ATVs, pet fluffy sheep, to name a few activities. Definitely, one of the best day trips but needs to be planned in advance.
13. Desaru Coast
Wonderfully, you can take the new ferry route in under 90 minutes to this dreamy location. Explore fishing villages and tuck into authentic seafood, have a splash at Desaru Coast Waterpark and feed the hilarious ostriches at the Ostrich Farm, to name a few things. A return ticket will set you back $118. See all the wonderful things to do in Desaru Coast.
14. Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is located just one hour flight from Singapore. Those eager to explore Kuala Lumpur can hop on a morning flight to the vibrant city and return on a night flight. Once in KL, you can visit iconic landmarks like the Petrona Twin Towers, Batu Caves, and Thean Hou Temple. Meanwhile, you could eat in places like Chinatown and shop till you drop as you grab bargains using Malaysian Ringgit. Get our Kuala Lumpur guide.
15. Sentosa
Closer to home, Sentosa Island is just a few minutes away and offers a selection of thrilling activities to make the best day trip for people of all ages to enjoy. From new attractions like Asia’s first gamified electric go-karts, to golden beaches, top sights such as Universal Studios with the new Minion Land, Wings Of Time, and more…there’s something for everyone. Read about the best things to do for a day in Sentosa here.
16. Port Dickson
If you’re feeling extra adventurous why not drive to Pork Dickson in just three hours and 45 minutes? In fact, it’s a blissful holiday destination that resembles The Maldives if you wanted to spend the weekend there. The drive is easy via the North South Highway. There, you’ll discover a tropical seaside town with 18km of golden beaches and a number of attractions. Learn more. Definitely, one of the best day trips near Singapore.
17. Adventure Cove Waterpark
Located in Sentosa, you could easily spend the full day making a splash at this delightful waterpark. Adventure Cove boasts both adult and child-friendly rides, from high-speed water slides to wave pools, and exotic marina encounters…it’s a superb place to pass the day with people of all ages. Certainly, one of the best day trips from the centre. Otherwise, check out another water park in the city.
18. Kampong Lorong Buangkok
One of the top day trips is actually Singapore’s last surviving traditional village. Known as Kampong Lorong Buangkok, the hidden gem offers a rare glimpse into the country’s rural past. As you stroll through the tranquil surroundings, you’ll discover wooden houses, lush greenery, and a serene pace of life that’s world’s apart from the urban bustle. Definitely, an exciting day trip to take without leaving Singapore.
19. Rifle Range Nature Park
Just 20 minutes from the city, a new green park is located along Rifle Range Road to the south of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. The 66 hectares park is the first positive energy park in Singapore, with energy harvested from solar panels around the park. With two boardwalks, a range of hiking trails, viewing platforms and a quarry wetland…you could easily spend half a day getting lost amongst nature.
20. The Islands
Why not use a sunny day to visit one of the islands closest to Singapore beside Kusu Island already mentioned above? Examples include Rawa Island which is just three hours by car and boat. Luckily, we’ve already listed the best island adventures to take from Singapore. The choice is yours! Definitely, some of the best day trips from Singapore.
SEE MORE: The Best Things To Do In Singapore