Hotels near Istana Besar

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Our top choices for Istana Besar hotels

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru
4.0 star property
Central District, 1.2 km from Istana Besar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Great hotel, fantastic rooms and nice breakfast. Restaurant is on the very expensive side for JB"
Australia
Robert
The price is S$123
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Johor Bahru by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Johor Bahru by IHG
4.0 star property
Central District, 0.7 km from Istana Besar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (305 reviews)
"Pleasant stay "
Malaysia
ariza
The price is S$78
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Johor Bahru by IHG

Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
Central District, 1.1 km from Istana Besar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (719 reviews)
"Room is good, location is good"
Singapore
Teck Khoon
The price is S$140
includes taxes & fees
22 Feb - 23 Feb
Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre by IHG

Amari Johor Bahru

Amari Johor Bahru
5.0 star property
Central District, 1.1 km from Istana Besar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Very good & nice stay"
Malaysia
Hafezullah Amin
The price is S$120
includes taxes & fees
24 Feb - 25 Feb
Amari Johor Bahru

Z Hotel Johor

Z Hotel Johor
3.0 star property
Central District, 1.1 km from Istana Besar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (134 reviews)
"The rooms were super clean. Staff friendly and helpful. Will definitely recommend others this hotel"
Singapore
Jumana
The price is S$78
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
Z Hotel Johor

R&F Princess Cove by FUJU & 5mins to ClQ

R&F Princess Cove by FUJU & 5mins to ClQ
4.5 star property
Central District, 1.7 km from Istana Besar
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (101 reviews)
"Staff is friendly and helpful. Good place to stay. "
Singapore
JIANLIANG
The price is S$58
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
R&F Princess Cove by FUJU & 5mins to ClQ

Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru

Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru
4.0 star property
Central District, 1.6 km from Istana Besar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"The reception was friendly and helpful. Room was spacious and clean. Close to shopping mall and Checkpoint to Singapore. Good location. "
Australia
Cindy
The price is S$134
includes taxes & fees
15 Mar - 16 Mar
Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru

Shama Suasana Johor Bahru

Shama Suasana Johor Bahru
4.0 star property
Central District, 1 km from Istana Besar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (421 reviews)
"Staff were helpful, freindly and accomadating"
Australia
Andrew
The price is S$85
includes taxes & fees
25 Feb - 26 Feb
Shama Suasana Johor Bahru

R&F Princess Cove JB By SaffronCasa JB

R&F Princess Cove JB By SaffronCasa JB
4.0 star property
Central District, 1.3 km from Istana Besar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (96 reviews)
"Staff are friendly."
Singapore
Yong Chong
R&F Princess Cove JB By SaffronCasa JB

SKS Pavillion Residences by Stayrene

SKS Pavillion Residences by Stayrene
3.0 star property
Central District, 1.8 km from Istana Besar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (7 reviews)
"Family friendly apartment, especially family with kids! My kids love the play area. Modern, minimalist and clean apartment. One of the best apartment in JB I have stay before 👍👍"
Singapore
Wani
The price is S$58
includes taxes & fees
4 Mar - 5 Mar
SKS Pavillion Residences by Stayrene

Twin Tower Residence by Stayrene

Twin Tower Residence by Stayrene
3.0 star property
Central District, 1.8 km from Istana Besar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (6 reviews)
"Clean and decent. Rooms are generally comfortable, only thing is don’t have warbrobe. Having mahjong room is great! Booked 2 units and 1 of them don’t have frying pan for own cooking. Overall still clean and decent accommodation. "
Singapore
Anonymous traveller
The price is S$72
includes taxes & fees
4 Mar - 5 Mar
Twin Tower Residence by Stayrene

Sheraton Johor Bahru

Sheraton Johor Bahru
4.0 star property
Central District, 1.9 km from Istana Besar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (19 reviews)
"Super friendly staff, hotel amenities were well-maintained, breakfast was good too!"
Singapore
Kimberly
The price is S$178
includes taxes & fees
22 Feb - 23 Feb
Sheraton Johor Bahru

Belllo Hotel JB Central

Belllo Hotel JB Central
3.0 star property
Central District, 1.1 km from Istana Besar
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (583 reviews)
"Good"
Singapore
kok khiang
The price is S$85
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
Belllo Hotel JB Central

Havona Hotel @ CIQ Johor Bahru - Self Check-In

Havona Hotel @ CIQ Johor Bahru - Self Check-In
2.0 star property
Central District, 1.8 km from Istana Besar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (8 reviews)
"Reasonable price & location wise is good "
Singapore
Wannadwah
The price is S$32
includes taxes & fees
20 Feb - 21 Feb
Havona Hotel @ CIQ Johor Bahru - Self Check-In

R&F TrexHomestay

R&F TrexHomestay
3.0 star property
Central District, 1.5 km from Istana Besar
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (12 reviews)
"A rather ok choice of accommodation."
Singapore
KAI JIN
The price is S$123
includes taxes & fees
19 Feb - 20 Feb
R&F TrexHomestay

CIQ HOTEL at Jalan Trus

CIQ HOTEL at Jalan Trus
3.0 star property
Central District, 1 km from Istana Besar
7.6 out of 10, Good, (86 reviews)
"A decent budget hotel."
Singapore
Hui Hui
The price is S$49
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
CIQ HOTEL at Jalan Trus

Attrus By LSE - Hostel

Attrus By LSE - Hostel
2.0 star property
Central District, 1.1 km from Istana Besar
7.6 out of 10, Good, (21 reviews)
"Central easy location to commute to Singapore "
United Kingdom
Ken
Attrus By LSE - Hostel

Twin Galaxy Residences

Twin Galaxy Residences
3.0 star property
Taman Abad, 2.6 km from Istana Besar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (12 reviews)
"Good location - very comparable to the 3-4 star hotels around. (ie: New York, KSL, Gp, etc) Parking is good, and my vehicle feels safe(compared to other hotels). Ample food options at the ground level as well."
Singapore
Aiden
Twin Galaxy Residences

Citrus Hotel Johor Bahru by Compass Hospitality

Citrus Hotel Johor Bahru by Compass Hospitality
3.5 star property
Central District, 1.1 km from Istana Besar
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"The staff are friendly and the area is convenient."
Singapore
Dzulina Binte Abdul Samad
The price is S$59
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
Citrus Hotel Johor Bahru by Compass Hospitality

R&F Princess Cove at ANJU

R&F Princess Cove at ANJU
3.0 star property
Central District, 1.9 km from Istana Besar
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (26 reviews)
"Ideal place for a good relaxation for family n friends "
Singapore
Simon
The price is S$94
includes taxes & fees
21 Feb - 22 Feb
R&F Princess Cove at ANJU
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Compare popular hotels close to Istana Besar

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Outdoor pool, pool loungers
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru
4.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,001 reviews
View
Exterior
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Johor Bahru by IHG
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
305 reviews
View
Outdoor pool, open 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, pool loungers
Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre by IHG
4.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
719 reviews
View
Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; local cuisine
Amari Johor Bahru
5.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,000 reviews
View
Smart TV
Z Hotel Johor
3.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
134 reviews
View

Top Istana Besar Hotel Reviews

Hotels near other Istana Besar attractions

Find out more about Istana Besar

Top reasons to visit Istana Besar

  • Majestic Royal Palace: The grand Istana Besar showcases stunning architecture and opulent decorations, offering a glimpse into Malaysia's royal heritage.
  • Rich Cultural Experience: Guided tours highlight the vibrant local culture and history, making for an immersive visit.
  • Beautiful Surroundings: Expansive gardens and impressive structures enhance the picturesque atmosphere around the palace.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The neighbourhood is welcoming, perfect for families and budget travellers exploring local markets and parks.
  • Historic Sites: Nearby attractions, including the historic Istana Lama, provide additional cultural insights and exploration opportunities.

Find great hotels near Istana Besar

Experience the grandeur of Istana Besar, where opulent palace buildings and luxurious decorations create a majestic backdrop for your stay. Choose from an array of accommodations, including hotels and guesthouses, tailored for business travellers, families, and those seeking a lavish getaway. Enjoy the expansive gardens and immerse yourself in the rich history of this royal residence, making it the perfect base for your Johor Bahru adventure.

  • KSL Hotel & Resort: Embracing a vibrant family-friendly theme, KSL Hotel & Resort is an ideal choice for those travelling with children. Located 3.2km from Istana Besar, this 4-star resort is designed to provide a fun-filled experience for families. Guests can enjoy a plethora of amenities including an exciting Arcade Game Room, a dedicated children's pool, and a water park, ensuring the little ones have endless entertainment. The resort also offers essential services such as cribs (for a fee) and window guards for added safety, making it a welcoming haven for families seeking a memorable vacation.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru: Situated a mere 1.1km from Istana Besar, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru fuses business efficiency with leisure, making it perfect for both corporate and family travels. This 4-star hotel features comprehensive business amenities including a 24-hour business centre and multiple meeting rooms. For relaxation, guests can unwind at the full-service spa or enjoy the hot tub and sports massage. Families will appreciate the free crib provision and the first aid kit, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere and extensive facilities create a perfect blend of work and play.
  • Amari Johor Bahru: A step above with its 4.5-star rating, Amari Johor Bahru harmonises business and wellness for an exceptional stay. Located just 1.1km from Istana Besar, this hotel offers modern business amenities including a conference centre and meeting rooms. Guests seeking relaxation can indulge in a variety of spa treatments such as deep tissue massages and manicures. Family-friendly facilities are also available, including a children’s pool and free cribs. With its emphasis on comfort and convenience, Amari Johor Bahru is a prime choice for travellers looking to balance work and leisure.

Where to stay near Istana Besar

Exploring the area around Istana Besar, you'll be captivated by its grand structures and stunning architecture. The surrounding neighbourhoods offer a friendly atmosphere, perfect for families and budget travellers alike. Don't miss the majestic staircases and the vibrant local culture, which provide a delightful excursion experience. With friendly locals and a rich heritage, this destination is sure to leave a lasting impression on your journey in Johor Bahru.

  • Johor Bahru: As the capital city of Johor, Johor Bahru is a vibrant hub that boasts a rich blend of cultures and experiences. Nestled close to the Singapore-Malaysia border, it welcomes visitors year-round, with peak travel periods in March, August, and December. The city offers a plethora of activities, from bustling shopping malls to relaxing resorts. Notable attractions include beautiful beaches and exciting theme parks, making it an ideal destination for families and business travellers alike. Johor Bahru is a city that never fails to impress with its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings.
  • Bandar Johor Bahru: Located just 805m from Istana Besar, Bandar Johor Bahru is a quaint village that provides a charming contrast to the bustling city nearby. This area enjoys a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, particularly during peak months. Bandar Johor Bahru is perfect for those seeking family-friendly activities and business facilities. With its proximity to theme parks, event venues, and shopping destinations, it offers an engaging experience for all. The village’s laid-back vibe, combined with local attractions, makes it a delightful spot to explore.
  • Jalan Wong Ah Fook: Approximately 966m from Istana Besar, Jalan Wong Ah Fook is another village that captures the essence of Johor Bahru. This area, like its neighbours, sees consistent visitor numbers, peaking during March, August, and December. Jalan Wong Ah Fook is renowned for its accessibility to shopping centres and resorts, catering to families and business visitors alike. Nearby, you can find event venues and convention centres, enhancing its appeal as a dynamic location. The village atmosphere paired with its convenient attractions makes Jalan Wong Ah Fook a must-visit.

Things to do near Istana Besar

When visiting Istana Besar in Johor Bahru, immerse yourself in a variety of activities, including shopping at local markets, birdwatching in nearby parks, and exploring the region's wildlife. The main attraction, the grand Istana Besar itself, offers a glimpse into royal history and architecture. Don't miss out on guided tours that showcase Malaysia's rich culture and heritage, making for a memorable experience in this vibrant city.

Shopping

Experience vibrant shopping at Johor Bahru City Square, just 1.1km from Istana Besar, offering entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Nearby, Bazaar Karat (Rusty Market) is 966m away, perfect for unique finds. If you're up for a drive, visit Komtar JBCC, also 1.1km away, for more shopping delights.

Recreation

Angry Birds Activity Park Johor Bahru offers a fun-filled family playground with outdoor activities, perfect for all ages. For golf enthusiasts, the Johor Golf and Country Club provides a lush green course set in a tranquil environment. Meanwhile, Tan Sri Hassan Yunus Stadium caters to sports lovers with its vibrant atmosphere.

Adventure

Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park, located 11.3km from Istana Besar, offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions for a day of excitement. La Stella Water Theme Park, 12.9km away, features fun-filled water rides and activities, perfect for families seeking adventure in a vibrant environment.

Nightlife

In Johor Bahru, the vibrant nightlife around Istana Besar features chic bars and lively clubs. The nearby Jalan Dhoby is renowned for its trendy cafés and street art, while the bustling night markets offer local delicacies and a lively atmosphere perfect for evening strolls.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Istana Besar

To save on your visit to Istana Besar, consider travelling between September and November, when accommodation prices drop. Aim to book your stay on a Wednesday for the best rates, avoiding pricier Sundays. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and hotel category, such as Eco-certified options. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can lead to significant savings. Don’t forget to explore free activities around the area to maximise your budget while enjoying your trip.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Istana Besar are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Istana Besar is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Istana Besar is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your Istana Besar hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Istana Besar

Visitors to Istana Besar in Johor Bahru can immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience, exploring the stunning Royal Palace and the historic Istana Lama. The area features various attractions, including modern civic buildings, temples, and mosques, perfect for those seeking both outdoor adventures and cultural insights. Whether you're interested in architecture or local heritage, the grand palace of Johor offers a captivating glimpse into Malaysia's royal history.

  • Johor Bahru Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex: This modern civic government building, located 1.3km from Istana Besar, showcases impressive architecture and operates with a business-like atmosphere, making it an interesting stop for those intrigued by contemporary design and governmental functions.
  • Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Palace Museum: Nestled within Istana Besar, this historic building offers a glimpse into Johor's royal heritage. With its rich cultural vibes, visitors can explore exquisite artefacts and learn about the state's history and traditions.
  • Persada Convention Center: Situated 966m from Istana Besar, this event conference venue exudes a professional ambience, often hosting various events and exhibitions, making it a hub for business and networking in Johor Bahru.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Istana Besar

Visiting Istana Besar in Johor Bahru can be conveniently accessed via three major airports. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) is situated 27.4km away, with nearby hotels such as the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, just 483m from the airport. Johor Bahru Senai International Airport (JHB) is 22.5km from Istana Besar, with options like Le Grandeur Palm Resort, located merely 1.6km away. Lastly, Singapore Seletar Airport (XSP) is 12.9km away, offering hotels like Swissotel The Stamford, 14.5km from the airport. Each hotel provides various transportation services to their respective airports for a hassle-free journey.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Istana Besar?
Istana Besar is located in a welcoming area of Johor Bahru known for its array of dining options and bird watching. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 125 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.
What's the best hotel to stay close to Istana Besar?
Amari Johor Bahru is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers a full-service spa and a restaurant. It's located just a short 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Istana Besar. Other good options close by include Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre by IHG and Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru.
How many hotels are there close to Istana Besar?
Expedia has 125 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Istana Besar.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Istana Besar, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to review the best deals available near Istana Besar.
What can I see and do near Istana Besar?
You'll want to browse the exhibits at Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Palace Museum and Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum. Sights like Sri Raja Mariamman Temple and Tan Hiok Nee highlight some of the local culture. Spend some time wandering around Taman Merdeka, Danga Bay Park and Greenwood Sanctuary Admiralty.
How can I get to Istana Besar?
To see more of the larger area, hop aboard a train at JB Sentral. There might not be many public transport options to choose from near to Istana Besar so consider renting a car to see more of the area.

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