The PERFECT 2 Days In Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: The Best Of KL
If you are planning on spending in 2 days in Kuala Lumpur and wondering how you are going to see everything, then you are in the right place.
I’ve been to the capital of Malaysia twice and I can tell you that there is a lot this city has to offer. From the epic Petronas Tower to the cultural hotspots and mouth-watering street food, there is almost an endless amount of things to do in KL.
That is why I’ve decided to write this 2-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary, so you can maximize your time and see the best of KL. Let’s jump right into it!
Planning A Trip To Kuala Lumpur Last Minute?
Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!
Our recommended airport transfer in Kuala Lumpur:
- Kuala Lumpur: Airport Private Transfer by Car/Van (SUPER cheap!)
Our recommended tours in Kuala Lumpur :
- Batu Caves and Firefly Watching Tour (Must-do in KL!)
- Petronas Twin Towers Entry E-Ticket (Best way to secure your ticket!!)
- Day Trip to Historic Malacca with Lunch (Best day trip from KL!)
Our recommended places to stay in Kuala Lumpur:
- Traders Hotel (AMAZING views of the Petronas Towers!)
- Sunway Putra Hotel (Great value-for-money!)
- Penthouse on 34 (Our favorite hostel in KL!!)
Is Two Days In Kuala Lumpur Enough?
Generally speaking, if you are looking to just see the best attractions in Kuala Lumpur, then two full days is enough time, though you might feel a bit rushed.
It’s enough time to visit key landmarks such as the Petronas Tower and Batu Caves, experience the local cuisine in Jalan Alor Night Food Street, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.
The transportation system of Kuala Lumpur is very efficient and taxi-hailing apps such as Grab are very cheap. It makes getting around the city very easy and quick.
However, we don’t recommend spending an extended time here. As the capital, KL feels like any other big metropolitan city. There is traffic, there is noise, and there is pollution. It is by no means a relaxing place to spend your Malaysia vacation.
Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur In 2 Days
Morning of day 1 kl itinerary: batu caves.
Welcome to Kuala Lumpur, “The Garden City Of Lights”. Rise and shine early because the first place we are visiting on our 2 days Kuala Lumpur itinerary is the famous Batu Caves.
Known for its colorful Instagram-worthy stairs, impressive cave systems, and unique religious complexes, Batu Caves is a must-see in Kuala Lumpur.
Batu Caves consist of a total of three massive caves and many smaller ones. At the entrance of the main cave, you will find a towering statue of a Hindu God.
As you carefully make your way up a 272-step climb, you will be attacked accompanied by some friendly neighbors: monkeys.
Though the monkeys are adorable, they will get their hands on anything they can take. Water bottles, sunglasses, insect repellent, GoPros, potato chips, nothing is safe around these monkeys.
Once you finish your treacherous climb, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the city down below. The adventure doesn’t stop there though, as you have just arrived at the entrance of the sacred cave – Cathedral Cave .
Here you will find several Hindu shrines where you can see the Hindu influences in Malaysia.
During the annual festival of Thaipusam , Batu Caves can attract up to more than one million pilgrims!
Looking for a local guide to tell you more information and history of the Batu Caves? Check out this recommended tour!
Though the Cathedral Cave is probably the most popular cave in Batu Caves, there is another one that is worth seeing – the Ramayana Cave .
The Ramayana Cave houses paintings and scenes of Hindu gods as well as numerous human-size statues.
By utilizing the public transportation system of KL, you can easily get to Batu Caves. Take the KLM Komuter Line on any of the stops and get off at the last stop of the line, Batu Caves. Once you have arrived, get out of the station and you will be there!
The whole journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on if you need to find your way to one of the stations for the KLM Komuter Line.
Batu Caves are completely free to enter. Aim to arrive as early as possible to beat the afternoon heat and to enjoy this sacred place without an overwhelming crowd. The opening hours of Batu Caves are from 7 AM to 9 PM. I recommend arriving no later than 10 AM.
However, the Ramayana Cave has an admission fee of 5 MYR (Malaysian Ringgit).
Afternoon Of Day 1 KL Itinerary : Chinatown (Petaling Street), National Mosque Of Malaysia
By the time you have returned back to the center of Kuala Lumpur after visiting Batu Caves, it should be around midday. If you can handle the heat, you can head towards Chinatown, especially Petaling Street Market.
Malaysia is a melting pot of many different cultures and ethnicities. From Indian to Malaysian to Chinese, you can find bits of every culture integrated into the everyday life of Kuala Lumpur. Experiencing Malaysia is about experiencing the different cultures that make up the impressively diverse country.
Chinatown is the hotspot for Chinese culture (if you couldn’t tell by the name). Here you will find a heavy concentration of Chinese cuisine, culture, and influences.
Unlike most parts of Kuala Lumpur that have been modernized, Chinatown still retains most of its historic structures. With bustling street markets, cheap street food, and affordable accommodation, Chinatown is one of my favorite places to stay in Kuala Lumpur.
Though a stroll down Chinatown will present you with excitement left and right, there are a few specific spots worth checking out. They are:
- Petaling Street Market
- Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
- Kwai Chai Hong
Petaling Street Market is the perfect model of the street markets that southeast Asia is famous for. Dirt-cheap prices, knock-off items, street food, miscellaneous merchandise, sweat, crowds, noise, it’s the full package.
You can spend hours wandering around, laughing at the terrible spellings on the fake clothing or trying the strange local food such as the infamous durian. If you do decide to purchase something, make sure you haggle to avoid getting scammed.
After you have shopped til’ you dropped, take a break at the nearby Sri Maha Mariamman Temple . As the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur , Sri Maha Mariamman is one of the best places to visit in KL .
With Spanish and Italian tiles, precious jewels, and gold in its design, the elegance of the temple contrasts starkly with the cheap Petaling Street.
Sri Maha Mariamman’s location at the edge of Chinatown is another perfect example of the harmony of Buddhism and Hinduism in Kuala Lumpur. Take a moment to look at the intricate artwork and paintings and understand the importance of Hinduism in Malaysia.
You can only visit a temple for so long before you get tired of it. After making a brief stop at the Sri Maha Mariamman temple, head over to Kwai Chai Hong . A small alley filled with cool interactive murals , Kwai Chai Hong is one of the most picturesque spots in Kuala Lumpur.
As you can tell by the name, this tourist attraction is influenced by the Chinese. Many of the murals represent the daily lives of local Malaysians and Chinese immigrants, such as the barbershop mural.
Unlike other small cities such as Ipoh and Penang where street arts inundate the streets, a heavily-populated metropolitan city like Kuala Lumpur rarely sees any. Take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy some local arts!
After exploring all of Chinatown, it is time to visit another top attraction in Kuala Lumpur: The National Mosque of Malaysia (also known as Masjid Negara). A national symbol of Islam, the National Mosque of Malaysia is able to accommodate 15,000 people at one time.
The impressive structure has a unique geometric decor, featuring abstract shapes and lattices. The aesthetic of the mosque is so stunning it can double as a museum!
The mosque spans a huge 13 acres, but the part you must visit is the Grand Hall. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed inside outside of prayer times. If you are dressed inappropriately, there are robes and scarves for rent at the entrance of the mosque.
Night Of Day 1 KL Itinerary : Petronas Tower, KLCC Park
After a visit to the National Mosque of Malaysia, it is time for the highlight of our Kuala Lumpur 2 day itinerary – The Petronas Tower (also known as Petronas Twin Towers).
Any visit to Malaysia would not be complete without seeing the iconic Petronas Towers, whose glory as the tallest building in the world lasted from 1998 to 2004. Though several skyscrapers are now much taller than the Petronas Twin Towers, the impressive engineering feat will never be forgotten.
Many places in KL offer unobstructed views of the magnificent Petronas Tower. Our favorite is the KLCC Park adjacent to the twin towers. Similar to Central Park in New York City, the KLCC provides green spaces to a heavily urbanized city.
Sitting in the 50-acre park at night is like finding a haven in the chaos.
The KLCC Park has daily water and light shows to accompany the breathtaking views of the Petronas Towers. The shows are scheduled for 8 PM, 9 PM, and 10 PM.
Other amazing places to see the Petrona Towers are the nearby rooftop bars. Though I personally have not been, I have heard great things about them. The most notable place is the Sky Bar on the 33rd floor of the Traders Hotel .
You do not need to be a guest there to visit their Sky Bar. However, you might need to make a reservation depending on if you are visiting Kuala Lumpur on the weekend or during peak season.
Petronas Tower Observatory Deck and Skybridge
If you want to visit the Petronas Tower Observatory Deck and the Skybridge, you are more than welcome to do so. Just keep in mind that it closes at 9 PM sometimes and the last entrance is at 8:30 PM.
It costs 98 RM for non-Malaysian adults, but they are on a first come first serve basis. Tickets can be purchased online here to save all the hassle and secure the time slot you want.
After you are done drooling over the views of the Petronas Tower, you are more than welcome to wander around if you still have energy. From my experience, the heat and humidity made me much more tired in general. The first day of our Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 2 days ends here!
Morning Of Day 2 KL Itinerary : Thean Hou Temple, Central Market
Are you ready for another exciting day on our 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary? In the morning, you will explore one of the oldest religious relics in Malaysia, the Thean Hou Temple.
Originally built by Hainanese immigrants in 1987, the Thean Hou Temple is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Kuala Lumpur.
Many visitors come to Thean Hou just for the amazing photo opportunity. That is great. In fact, Thean Hou is one of the most beautiful temples I have been to in Malaysia with its ornate Chinese architecture and seas of dainty lanterns.
However, Thean Hou is also a very important temple. Dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu , blessings from the temple are essential for anyone working at sea.
Unlike the national mosque that requires a specific attire, Thean Hou does not have a dress code. There is also no entrance fee! Just keep in mind that it opens at 8 AM so don’t come here too early!
After a civilized visit to the temple, it’s time to head back to the chaos. This time around, we won’t be going to the Petaling Street Market for our fun, but the Central Market Kuala Lumpur.
Starting off as a wet market in 1888, the Central Market has become one of the most iconic landmarks in Malaysia. Not only does it function as a market, but it symbolizes the heritage of cultures of the multi-racial country.
Here you will find vendors with merchandise from various backgrounds:
Central Market is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts, as most items are made locally. When you are tired or hungry, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants inside the market. Honestly, Central Market feels like a city within a city!
Afternoon Of Day 2 KL Itinerary : Merdeka Square, KL Forest Eco Park, KL Tower
After Central Market, you will head to the nearby Dataran Merdeka, or Independence Square in English. As the first place where the Malaysian flag was flown, Merdeka Square is one of the most historically important places in Malaysia.
Though you won’t be able to learn about much of the history with a casual stroll on the perfectly manicured lawn, the historic buildings offer a glimpse into the past. Malaysia was a British colony before it gained its independence .
At 95 meters high, the flagpole at Merdeka Square is one of the highest in the world!
After Merdeka Square, the next stop on our Kuala Lumpur 2 days itinerary is KL Forest Eco Park.
A centrally-located park filled with nature trails, endangered monkeys (rarely), and a beautiful canopy walk, KL Forest Eco Park is like an oasis in a desert. It is surprising to see so much green space concentrated in one area in KL!
The stunning 200-meter canopy walk is the most outstanding feature of the park. Not only is it only one of the most beautiful places in Kuala Lumpur, but you will also feel like you are nested in the jungle!
The truth is that some parts of the park are not pristine. Concrete steps might be missing and some parts of the park might even look abandoned. However, that is exactly why I enjoyed it so much.
Seeing nature reclaim its territory, hopping over tree branches, is what makes a nature trail fun. If you wanted to walk on concrete, maybe a shopping mall is a better option for you.
Bring insect repellent as mosquitoes are rampant in the KL Forest Eco Park.
The best thing about the KL Eco Forest Park is that it connects to the next attraction on our Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 2 days – the famous KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur).
At 421 meters high, the Kuala Lumpur Tower is one of the tallest telecommunication towers in the world. Though the views of the tower from below are spectacular, the views from above are even better.
KL Tower features an interior observation deck at 276, which is known to offer a better view of the city than the Petronas Tower’s observatory deck. The tower also has an exciting open-air sky deck 300 meters above the ground.
Want more excitement? Take a photo at the sky box, where the only thing separating you from the ground is a thin piece of see-through glass.
If you had to pick an observatory for panoramic views of KL, I would recommend KL Tower even though it is not as high as the Petronas Twin Towers.
Night Of Day 2 KL Itinerary : Jalan Alor Night Food Court
No visit to Kuala Lumpur is complete without a trip to the famous food night markets. There are several amazing food night markets in Kuala Lumpur, but the one you mustn’t miss is Jalan Alor Night Food Street.
Hundreds of hawker stalls and seafood restaurants inundate both sides of this food street, turning it into a paradise for food lovers (aka everyone). The foods there are absolutely delicious and ridiculously cheap, perfect for anyone traveling Malaysia on a budget.
If you did not have dinner yet, Jalan Alor is the perfect place to eat in Kuala Lumpur and sample various types of street food. Try a little bit from each stall and soon you will have a full and happy belly (and a happy wallet).
The most famous restaurant on Jalan Alor Street Food is Sai Woo . Though I did not try the food there myself, I have heard great things from other travelers!
Jalan Alor is the last place to visit on our 2 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary. We know that everyone has a different pace of travel. For those that tend to travel faster, here are some additional places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days!
KL Itinerary Map: Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur In 2 Days
Below is an interactive map outlining the things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days. The sequence of numbers is the order in which you will visit these places in Kuala Lumpur. From my own experience and extensive research, it is the best way to maximize your short visit to Kuala Lumpur.
Additional Places to Visit In Kuala Lumpur In 2 Days
1. perdana botanical gardens.
Do you prefer more green spaces when you travel and cannot make a trip to the Cameron Highlands ? Take a trip to the Perdana Botanical Gardens.
This gigantic green space is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll after a long day. There are also some very exotic plants there such as poisonous sausages! They are some of the strangest plants I have ever seen in my life!
2. Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park
Adjacent to the Perdana Botanical Gardens is another hidden gem of Kuala Lumpur, the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park. Featuring over 5,000 butterflies, this butterfly park is perfect for people traveling with kids in Kuala Lumpur.
3. Fireflies in Kuala Selangor
Located about an hour away from Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Selangor is perfect short getaway from KL . Here you can take a slowboat tour through the mangroves of the area and see the stunning fireflies colonies at night. It is one of the best hidden gems in Malaysia!
Though I personally recommend staying a few days in Kuala Selangor (and Sekinchan ) to see a different side of Malaysia, it is still possible to see the fireflies from Kuala Lumpur with a private tour.
Where To Stay In Kuala Lumpur To Maximize Your 48 Hours
Though transportation is cheap and convenient in Kuala Lumpur, staying in a few areas in KL will help you maximize your 48 hours in Kuala Lumpur.
Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Kuala Lumpur : Chinatown, KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Center), and Bukit Bintang. Our recommendations will only feature hostels and hotels in those areas.
Best Hostel In Kuala Lumpur – Mingle Petaling Street
If you are looking for a social, beautiful, and affordable hostel in Kuala Lumpur, look no further. Mingle Petaling Street is a hostel unlike no other in KL.
The hostel is located inside an old historic house, where the history speaks for itself in the faded paint and cracks on the wall. But unlike staying at an old house where you expect the facilities to be dated, the facilities are amazing for the low price you are paying.
Mingle also offers free dinner every day for your stay!
Best Cheap Hotel In Kuala Lumpur – Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Cheap hotels in Kuala Lumpur are abundant, but finding the perfect one can be a daunting task. Ibis is an internationally recognized hotel chain that provides quality rooms and services at an affordable rate.
The Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre is no exception. Offering a huge infinity pool with breath-taking views of the Petronas Tower, guests can sightsee without leaving the hotel! The hotel also offers a delicious breakfast buffet, which is the perfect way to start your day in Kuala Lumpur.
Best Luxury Hotel In Kuala Lumpur – RuMa Hotel and Residences
Anyone looking for a luxury hotel in Kuala Lumpur will find the RuMa Hotel and Residences a delight.
Unlike other hotels where they just provide a clean room to stay, RuMA Hotel takes it up a notch by providing guests with an extraordinary experience. The interior decor is stylish and speaks nothing but luxury. The swimming pool and rooms are immaculate, and the staff treats you like kings and queens.
This is one of the highest-rated hotels in Kuala Lumpur and it is easy to see why!
Visiting Kuala Lumpur FAQs
How many days to stay in kuala lumpur.
We recommend staying a minimum of two days in Kuala Lumpur to experience its balance of cultural authenticity and modern luxuries. 3 days is the perfect amount of time to stay if you are not in a rush.
Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting?
Kuala Lumpur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, and for good reason. The city is home to stunning landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, incredible street food, and the perfect blend of modern and historical attractions.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Kuala Lumpur?
The best time to visit Kuala Lumpur is September. Since Kuala Lumpur has a tropical rainforest climate, the temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year. Rainfall is also common throughout the entire year, but the summer months June to September are not in the monsoon season!
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This concludes our Malaysia blog post on the Kuala Lumpur 2-day itinerary! I hope it has given you a rough idea of what to do in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days! Any question? Leave them in the comments!
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World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer
LivingOutLau
Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!
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- 5 Places To Visit In Malaysia In 2 Days That Will Melt Your Heart In 2024!
23 Mar 2023
Malaysia is an exquisite country on the Asian side of the globe. The country boasts of pristine waters, sandy beaches, rock-cut caves, skyscrapers and exciting activities like snorkeling. So, take some time out of your busy schedule and plan a trip to Malaysia. The time or the number of days in Malaysia will not cause a hitch during your amazing stay in the country as there are numerous tourist attractions interlinked and situated in close vicinity to ensure that the traveler gets to see and make the most of their trip to Malaysia. So, places to visit in Malaysia in 2 days for the expeditionist in you. These places not only provide scenic and uncommon sights but also let you participate in exhilarating activities like scuba diving, jungle trek, night safari, and bird watching.
Malaysia has cities like Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, George Town and Malacca that represent the country’s diverse population and multicultural concept of living. There is a mix of almost every religion and tribe which cohabits and live in a harmonious manner. So, it is important to experience the beauty of such distinctiveness and imbibe the knowledge that the country emits in their daily dealings with each other. The presence of so many Asian cultures and communities has given rise to numerous astounding tourist spots with different stories to tell. Tourists can visit a majority of these places, even in a short span of time, and appreciate the principles and reasons for various traditions that each place holds within itself. It is important as people of the world, to respect and absorb the knowledge regarding the various stories that historical and cultural manuscripts unfold. So, take a look at the best places that will let you in on the way of life for a majority of Malays.
5 Places To Visit In Malaysia In 2 Days
A short trip to Malaysia will not limit the fun things to do and various beautiful places that tourists can visit. Just whip out a planner and list the things one would like to do and places to visit in Malaysia in 2 days. This will help visitors to experience the finest places in Malaysia while taking part in so many activities that the country offers. If you are confused about what places to visit in Malaysia In 2 Days then we think this will help.
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1. Sabah River Safari
Image Source
For those newly-weds who want to experience nature in an unconventional way, this river safari fits the bill. Take on a tantalizing river safari down River Kinabatangan and experience wildlife and nature in its full glory. Of all the Malaysia honeymoon places, you ought to visit this one. Sabah River Safari takes you through some of the really exotic honeymoon places in Malaysia .
25 Honeymoon Destinations In Malaysia To Visit In 2022 That Will Surprise Your Partner
2. Taman Negara
Want to experience tropical rainforest to the fullest with your beloved-welcome to Taman Negara-the 130 million years old virgin rainforest. It is one of the breathtaking honeymoon places in Malaysia where you will have the best of nature. Enjoy moments of solitude amidst nature with your spouse.
Simply exploring the surroundings together can itself be so exhilarating, it is almost like getting to know one another one step at a time. In Malaysia, there is no dearth of little alleys and lanes to do just that, both on land as well as on water.
7 Nature Suffused Soul Enchanting Hill Stations In Malaysia
3. Sungai Chiling Waterfalls
Located in Selangor, the Sungai Chiling Waterfalls is one of the best places to visit for adrenaline junkies looking for thrills and spills in Malaysia. This is because Chiling Waterfalls , which doubles as a fish sanctuary, can only be reached after you take an adventurous trek along the river. There are six river crosses you need to go through, so make sure that you are ready to get your feet wet! Although the current can get strong and the water is deep, the walk is completely safe. Surrounded by dense vegetation, this place feels like nature’s hidden treasure.
10 Majestic Waterfalls In Malaysia That Are Mighty Beyond Words!
4. Lake Chenderoh
Thinking about going for fishing this weekend- Lake Chenderoh is a natural lake in Perak, Malaysia and is the perfect spot for spending your weekend fishing with your family. Being one of the main weekend getaway spot in the list of lakes in Malaysia , it has a lot of local restaurants that will serve you delicious local food.
8 Serene Lakes In Malaysia Which Cannot Be Missed On Your Next Getaway!
5. Temenggor Lake
Home to several species of fishes like Toman, Kelah, Sebarau and Baung, Temenggor is a man-made lake located near Banding Island which is a hub for travellers as it provides great sightseeing opportunities. One of the important man-made lake of Malaysia , Temenggor lake is visited by many travellers to explore the brilliant man-made creation.
Top 7 Museums In Malaysia That Are Sure To Leave You Enchanted!
Malaysia is a house to so many cultures and amazing places. The country is bounded by islands and beaches which makes it the perfect ‘fairytale’ kind of vacation spot. Tourists get a chance to try out night safari where they can get a glimpse of nocturnal wonders, go bird watching on the hilltops walk across the shores of the lake and shop for souvenirs. This points to the fact there are numerous places to visit in Malaysia in 2 days and leave no room for complaints. So what are you waiting for? Gather your family and friends and plan a vacation to Malaysia for a memorable and unforgettable vacation!
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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Malaysia In 2 Days
Where should I go for a one day trip to Malaysia?
You can plan to visit Rawa Island, Tenggol Island, Perhentian Islands and the many other islands that Malaysia offers.
How many days are enough for Malaysia?
6-10 days would be enough to explore and see Malaysia.
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15 of the best things to do in Malaysia
Jan 22, 2024 • 11 min read
Experience the best of Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images
Can't decide between visiting dive sites and tropical beaches, hiking through mountains or exploring swish city centers? Deliberate no more – Malaysia has you covered with its amazing array of things to do.
This Southeast Asian nation has an astonishing variety of landscapes, cultures and cuisines. In the cities, minarets, mandirs and Chinese temples share the skyline with space-age high-rises. Beyond the urban bustle are rainforests, mountains and radiant beaches .
From Peninsular Malaysia to the island of Borneo , traditional arts, crafts and recipes endure – even as cities hurtle towards the latest architectural and gastronomic trends. Here are Malaysia's unmissable experiences.
1. Sip tea at the source in the Cameron Highlands
Once upon a time, Malaysia's sweaty British colonialists fled to higher ground, founding hill stations where they could retreat from the heat and jump-start a tea industry. The most famous are in the Cameron Highlands , and today it's mostly tourists (local and foreign) who come to seek respite from Malaysia's muggy lowlands.
These 1300m to 1829m heights (4265ft to 6000ft) offer plenty of hikes , as well as strawberry plantations and souvenir stalls where you can burn a few ringgit. But the quintessential Cameron experience is sipping a bronze-hued cuppa while looking out at the rippling carpet of tea plantations.
Planning tip: Boh Sungei Palas not only has emerald hillsides to gaze upon, it also has the most informative displays on tea-making. Alternatively, there's a splendid tea house overlooking the estate at Cameron Valley Tea House and a further-flung option at Boh Tea Garden , which offers guided tours. You're sure to find an experience that suits you (...to a T).
2. Climb up into the magical Batu Caves
Sheer limestone cliffs rise above you. Ahead stretches a staircase of 272 steps. And looking you smack in the eye is an imperious gilded statue, the Hindu god Lord Murugan.
Newcomers to Malaysia won't soon forget their first heady ascent to Batu Caves , nor the cheeky macaques that beset them on all sides. But this popular day trip from Kuala Lumpur (just 13km/8 miles, and easily done by train) also draws repeat visitors galore. Tourists, pilgrims and locals all clamor to experience this natural wonder and spiritual spectacle.
This complex of limestone caverns has entrancing temples, each with dioramas showing mythical scenes. The central Temple Cave has been a Hindu shrine since 1890. After touring inside its two yawning chambers, take a side quest across a short bridge to the quieter Ramayana Cave , where dioramas illustrate the eponymous Sanskrit epic poem of duty and virtue.
Planning tip: If the regular crowds don't daunt you, time your visit for the Thaipusam festival (late January or early February) when crowds of devotees descend upon the caves, some partaking in ritual piercings – it's an immersive and unforgettable event.
3. Eat at the best food markets in George Town, Penang
The capital of Penang island is awash in street art, festooned with British Raj–era buildings, and crammed with boutiques selling arts and crafts. But before hitting these George Town attractions, heed your grumbling stomach… The best things to do in Penang revolve around eating and drinking – and state capital George Town has the biggest banquet.
In a city rife with food markets, elegant cafes, and everything in between, the only dilemma is where to begin. Our dream menu features chicken curry at venerable Indian spot Hameediyah , slurping Hokkien mee (noodles) at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and following our nose to grilled satay skewers and spicy-sweet rojak salad at Anjung Gurney Night Market . Other must-try dishes are spicy, fishy Penang laksa, and char kway teow , rice noodles sizzled with huge prawns (some of the best are served at Kafe Heng Huat ).
Planning tip: You'll want to save room for dessert (or two!). Gateaux are worth lingering over at China House , while glistening displays of kuih nyonya (colorful rice and coconut cakes) beg to be snapped up from the markets.
4. Snorkel or dive in the pristine Perhentian Islands
Culture, check. Food, check. Malaysia is also one of Asia's best honeymoon destinations, especially the Perhentian Islands , where gin-clear waters lap golden sand.
But don't doze off in your sun lounger just yet. Pulau Perhentian is even more magical beneath the water. Snorkelers can spy on coral reefs within reach of the beach (try Teluk Pauh and Shark Point, both on the big island). Better yet, wriggle into a wetsuit and dive among green sea turtles, barracuda and colorful reef-dwellers like yellow boxfish.
The Perhentians are a wonderfully calm (and comparatively cheap) place to take a PADI course before testing your skills among the local nurse sharks (they're harmless). More experienced divers can join excursions down to the MV Union Star . This sunken freighter is known as the "Sugar Wreck" for the cargo it transported before meeting its rusty end; today, the wreck swirls with stingrays and scorpionfish.
5. Scale the sublime summit of Mt Kinabalu
The highest mountain on Borneo, Gunung Kinabalu is Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Viewed from below, this cloud-spearing summit (4095m/13435ft) inspires awe: an outlying peak that rises far higher than its neighbors in the Crocker mountain range. But experienced from the summit, Mt Kinabalu is even more heavenly.
Your penance for this heavenly vantage point? A thigh-burning ascent, some 8.7km (5.4 miles) each way. But every phase of the journey (split across two days) opens up a new natural wonder. The rough steps and stony pathways propel you ever higher above the treeline, past lunar rockfaces, high-alpine grasslands, and tangled carpets of ferns, rhododendrons and bamboo. At Panalaban (3272m/10,735ft), you'll bed down in a hostel for the night… or at least for a few fitful hours because you'll be out of bed early to reach the spiky granite summit at sunrise.
Planning tip: March to August is dry season for climbing. Limited permits to climb are issued each day, and you have to climb with a guide.
6. Ride a trishaw around historic Melaka
Trishaws: bone-rattling, traffic-dodging, three-wheeled form of transport. To some, they're a joyride; to others, a menace. But in Melaka , trishaws are out of this world.
This historic port city is home to the blingiest trishaws around, adorned with Hello Kitty neons, the Frozen logo, and lighting rigs that could almost guide lost ships to shore. Lavished in flowers, tinsel and knock-off logos, more than 300 ostentatious trishaws ply their trade in Melaka, some offering history tours.
Aboard a trishaw, you might trundle past the Sultanate Palace and the spiky silhouette of the replica Flor de la Mar . You can spin through Dutch Square , which is lined with pinkish buildings like Christ Church . And as the sun dips below the horizon, your trishaw will begin to twinkle with fairy lights, lanterns and neon signs – it's hard to resist snapping a selfie.
7. Take a hike through Taman Negara
Reality check: for all Malaysia's natural splendor, the country faces serious environmental challenges, like encroachment of palm plantations on forested land. These threats make pockets of unspoiled nature like Taman Negara even more precious.
Literally " National Park ," Taman Negara is 4343 sq km (1676 sq miles) of primeval, protected land crossing Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu states. Its 130 million-year-old rainforest is among the oldest in the world (pipped to the title by Australia's Daintree), and along its trails, you're enclosed by the deafening soundtrack of jungle life. Fairy-sized katydids whirr through the forest, macaques chatter in the branches, and hornbills clack their beaks from above. If you're lucky, a gaur, an Asian bison with a distinctive bowl cut, will lumber into view. If you're incredibly lucky, you'll see a glimpse of a tiger, elephant or ultra-rare Malayan peacock-pheasant.
Planning tip: Whatever your fortunes spotting wildlife, don't miss walking the 45m-high (148ft-high) canopy walkway, taking a firefly boat ride or joining an after-dark hike to see things that go bump (or squeak, or scuttle) in the night.
8. Witness a flight of bats at eerie Mulu Caves
The island of Borneo is an every day Eden, where rainforests and reefs teem with wildlife. Amid this natural abundance, it's challenging to zoom in on one particular spectacle, but Gunung Mulu still rises to the top.
At this national park, toothy limestone pinnacles add drama to a landscape of 60 million-year-old rainforests, twisting streams and deep grottoes. The most momentous experience is seeing the skies blacken with bats pouring out of the mouth of Deer Cave . Up to three million bats hang around in these dank chambers, and their mid-air acrobatics are to flummox hawks waiting for a mammalian mouthful.
Planning tip: Tours take you inside Deer Cave and amid the spiraling stalactites of nearby Lang Cave, before you step outside to watch the aerial spectacle from around 5pm.
9. Go off-grid on a private jungle island in Royal Belum State Park
What does solitude even mean in the era of smartphones? Find out by going cold turkey on a private island in Royal Belum State Park , way up north in Peninsular Malaysia's Belum-Temenggor Rainforest.
Taking the longboat to the resort, your vibrating phone will fall into a slumber. To replace the constant overstimulus, dive off the island jetty for a swim, sleep in an A-frame tent, and awake to watch for all 10 species of hornbills swooping overhead. You can take guided hikes through the jungle in search of whopping great rafflesia blooms, and watch out for tell-tale elephant footprints in the mud.
10. Join a cooking class in Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia is a confluence of cuisines. There are thriving scenes for Malay, Peranakan, Indian and Chinese food, always with distinctly local and regional twists; try Penang laksa , Ipoh chicken beansprouts, and every variety of cendol (an icy, coconut milk refresher) you can find. Fading colonial influences, like Dutch, British and Portuguese, also lend their recipes to this steaming smorgasbord.
Some flavors will forever be a twinkle in the chef's eye, but you can take a few recipes home by joining a cooking class. Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to go, offering myriad options where skilled chefs will guide you through recipes like prawn fritters, nasi lemak (coconut rice with all the trimmings) and famous beef rendang .
Planning tip: LaZat Malaysian Home Cooking has been around since 2007, and offers a changing menu that spans classic rice noodle dish char kway teow , fragrant kapitan chicken and sago pudding.
11. Dive with turtles at Sipadan Island
Malaysia boasts a few marine paradises, but Sipadan is uncommonly remote and wild. The island is an extinct volcanic cone where coral reefs flourish, and palm trees provide scant shade on bone-white beaches. These waters are a catwalk of superstars: head out on a dive and spot big-eye trevallies, hammerhead sharks and two species of turtle – green and hawksbill. They're so abundant that it's not unusual to see a dozen turtles on a single dive!
Planning tip: The journey to Sipadan takes effort: after landing on Malaysian Borneo, you'll either connect to Tawau or bus onwards to Semporna , from where you can day trip to the island (or stay elsewhere on the archipelago; Sipadan itself doesn't allow overnight stays).
12. Look for bearded pigs in Bako National Park
Sarawak's teeming Bako National Park checks off much of the Bornean wildlife ticklist: dense jungle, mischievous monkeys, slinky water monitors and orchids peeping from the ground. More than 190 bird species flit, soar and chatter through Bako, the oldest national park in Sarawak.
So, what makes it distinctive? Firstly, the sea stacks that lend it a dramatic silhouette, sculpted by the action of water (admire them from Pandan Kecil beach). And secondly, the prospect of spotting bearded pigs, whose fuzzy bodies and shaggy snouts make for a gruff and adorable encounter.
Planning tip: Staying overnight is the best way to maximize chances of a sighting. Take a night walk with an experienced guide who will point the way.
13. Meet magnificent apes in Sepilok, Borneo
We share approximately 97% of our DNA with orangutans, so why not pay these long-lost relatives a visit? Make Sepilok your base: at the 43 sq km (17 sq mile) Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre , you can watch shaggy apes swing into view. The center pairs young primates with older partners to school them in the ways of the jungle before release. Next, head to Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary , less than half an hour's drive away. Listen for the thundering sound as they race across the wooden boardwalk at feeding time. Their squishy noses and pot bellies have a strange dignity… so like us humans!
Add a third mammalian encounter by visiting Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre , which rescues members of Southeast Asia's smallest bear family. There are 45 of these honey-guzzling cuties on site.
14. Get a bird's eye view on Langkawi Island
Langkawi is a true holiday island, with blonde beaches and rugged jungles. The best way to experience its splendor? Get up high.
Ride the SkyCab up to Gunung Machinchang (713m/2339ft), where engineering marvel Langkawi Sky Bridge stands; or drive up to admire views from 881m (2890ft) Gunung Raya. Alternatively, zip-lining helps you feel the wind in your hair and gives you a shot of adrenaline as you fly above the geopark's canopy, startling a few hornbills along the way.
15. Marvel at a spectacular mosque in Kuala Kangsar
Malaysia is studded with magnificent mosques, from Mogul-era marvels to functional modern constructions, but one masjid steals the show for its sheer grandeur: Masjid Ubudiah in the rocky region of Perak. Designed by famed architect AB Hubback, the mosque's whopping gold domes and Italian marble are a visual feast. It's not the only showpiece in town, either: take a spin around Muzium Diraja Kuala Kangsar and the Galeri Sultan Azlan Shah for an extra dose of architectural opulence.
This article was first published February 2022 and updated January 2024
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21 Best places to visit in Malaysia – Ultimate Bucket List
Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country, spans the parts of the Malay Peninsula and Borneo Island. The country is famous for its rainforests, white sand beaches, colonial buildings, and a mixture of modern skyscrapers with old historical architecture. Besides, Malaysia is one of the multicultural countries you’ll visit in the region with a heavy influence of European, Chinese, and Malay cultures. Unfortunately, I only visited the capital, Kuala Lumpur, so I asked other travel bloggers to suggest some of the best places to visit in Malaysia to help you create an ultimate bucket list.
This post includes affiliate links to products, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund my blog and bring more authentic articles to you 🙂 Learn more
More posts you might want to read:
→ Kuala Lumpur Itinerary – best things to do in 3 days
→ Best hotels in Kuala Lumpur – mid-range and luxury accommodation
→ 21 best places to visit in Malaysia – explore what Malaysia has to offer
Best cities in Malaysia
Kuala lumpur.
The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is a modern metropolitan city with a 452 meters tall Petronas Twin Towers dominating the skyline. Even though the city’s skyscrapers and tall glass-covered buildings attract the eye, Kuala Lumpur has lots of green spaces and parks to escape the heat or relax after long walks.
There are plenty of places to visit in Kuala Lumpur . However, the major attractions are its colorful temples and mosques of its multicultural population of Malay, Indian, and Chinese cultures.
Its bustling streets of food and shopping stalls add a special charm to the city along with the colonial-era architecture that can’t be missed. Make sure to visit the railway station , one of the best examples of Eastern and Western design mixture.
Besides architectural landmarks, Kuala Lumpur has several interesting museums to satisfy history buffs and museum lovers. Art enthusiasts can also find galleries and art museums along its streets.
One of the things to do in Kuala Lumpur is to take a day trip to Batu Caves – a limestone hill with several cave temples and caves. The site is one of the most famous Hindu shrines outside India. To get to the temple, you need to walk up 272 colorful steps making it one of the most photographed spots over the recent years.
There’s an awful lot to love about Ipoh, the biggest city in peninsular Malaysia’s Perak state. Often overlooked for more-popular Penang, Ipoh has many of the same charms without the crowds or inflated costs.
Ipoh is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia for food . There are a number of regional specialties to try, including the famous Ipoh bean sprout chicken. Ipoh is the birthplace of ‘white coffee’ and you can find this icy, sweet beverage served at cafes all over the city. It pairs best with Macau-style custard tarts, another Ipoh specialty.
When you’re not eating or drinking, the best things to do in Ipoh include hunting down the street art (there are thousands of murals here – check out Mural Arts Lane for some of the best), walking the Ipoh Heritage Trail to discover the city’s beautiful British colonial architecture, exploring the cute alleyways, and visiting Ipoh’s house museums. Just outside of the city, you’ll find incredible cave temples, lakes, and forest trails that are perfect for short hikes.
Like the rest of Malaysia, Ipoh gets very hot in summer so it’s recommended to visit in shoulder season . You can easily reach Ipoh by bus or train from Kuala Lumpur , and because of its location, it’s a good place to split up the journey between KL and Penang. Don’t just skip through in a day, be sure to book a few nights at one of the city’s cute boutique hotels to make the most of your visit.
Recommended by Wander-Lush
As few people go to Perak capital’s Ipoh, even fewer know that 20km to the south is Gopeng, one of West Malaysia’s prime adventure destinations. Set next to the Kampar river, it boasts world-class white water rafting, large caves, and tall waterfalls — there are certainly many things to do in Gopeng .
Start with a visit to the town on a weekend. The Gopeng Museum and the Heritage House in the main square offer a good introduction to the importance that Gopeng had in British colonial times when it was one of Perak’s main tin mining centers. The Heritage House is a collection of old memorabilia such as wooden four-poster beds, old typing machines, and clothes, and is an interesting way to spend an hour pretending to be in colonial Malaya.
The Gopeng market sells fresh produce and sits next to a food court where you can have delicious lai fun (Gopeng’s own twist to noodle soup), chee cheong fun , and roti bakar — toasted bread smeared in coconut jam and butter — which is always a godsend when paired with a cup of the local white coffee.
But most visitors come to town to go further south along the Kampar River to either raft, hop on a kayak, or hunt for tropical fruits like the foul-smelling durian. The area also has a 10-meter-high waterfall at Ulu Genruntum that’s popular for abseiling.
Further inland at Kampung Ulu Geroh the community of local Orang Asli (Malaysian aboriginal people) organizes homestays and treks to see the rafflesia, the biggest flower in the world . If you venture this far, you’ll be able to see the rare Rajah Brooke butterflies fluttering around in big numbers.
Nearby Gua Tempurung is West Malaysia’s biggest cave and offers spelunking trips of different levels of difficulty. Not far away is Gua Kandu, once a hideout for the communist insurgents of the Malayian emergency, with a cool zipline that sends you soaring across its biggest chamber of the cave. During World War II the Japanese invaders planned to house a plane hangar in this chamber.
Recommended by Penang Insider
Penang (Georgetown)
When dreaming of Malaysia, there are usually two things that come to mind: the vibrant, lip-smacking cuisine and world-famous street art. You can find both in droves on the island of Penang, a region renowned for gastronomic dishes like Char Koay Teow and Asam Laksa, but equally notable for the globally-known artworks of Ernest Zacharevic and the murals adorning its many street walls.
While Penang is technically an island, it’s also a state. The island itself is so large (and connected to the mainland via a bridge) that your first thoughts won’t be about sandy shores. Penang is not really the place for beach lovers; instead, it’s packed with cultural delights (and food markets!) and heaps of heritage, so much so that it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site back in 2008.
The crowning glory of Penang is the city of Georgetown , where most visitors flock. Spend your time there meandering around the many museums, checking out Cheong Fatt Tze (the Blue House), finding out more about the local Peranakan culture, or simply slurping up noodles at the many fabulous food stalls. Make sure to carve out a few hours to spot street art in Penang as the city boasts some of the planet’s most prominent pieces, all perfect for that Instagram selfie!
If you have some time left, head all the way up Penang Hill to visit The Habitat . Accessed via a funicular (which only costs 30 MYR per person), you’ll love the panoramic views from the top, plus the unique treetop walk and natural rainforests of The Habitat, a world-class natural experience.
Recommended by The Travel Scribes
Melaka (also spelled as Melacca) is a UNESCO World Heritage riverside town, rich in British, Dutch, and Portuguese colonial history. The town is a popular tourist destination as one of the options for day trips from Kuala Lumpur , while some prefer to stay for a few nights.
The best way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka is either by private car transfer or by taking the bus. There are several buses departing during the day and the journey takes 2.5 hours, costing around 15 MYR for a one-way ticket.
The town is very compact so you can easily explore it by foot adorning its wonderful colorful heritage buildings, quirky street art, and famous historical landmarks such as A Famosa Fort and Christ Church.
There are many fun things to do in Melaka but one of the highlights is the huge Jonker Street Weekend Night Market. This is one of the best markets in Southeast Asia and runs every Friday to Sunday, starting from the river and ending at the far end of Jonker Street. You’ll find multiple stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and amazing Malaysian delicacies. Make sure you try Nyonya Laksa – a rich and creamy coconut-based noodle soup that is a Melaka specialty and a mix of Malay and Chinese influences.
Another fun thing to do is to take a scenic river cruise and view the many beautiful historical buildings and interesting sights around Melaka’s old town, including Kampung Morten – one of the few remaining traditional villages in the area.
Visit Melaka as a full-day trip from Kuala Lumpur
Recommended by CK Travels
Putrajaya
Ambition or vision? These two should come into someone’s mind while visiting Putrajaya, the newly developed federal administrative capital of Malaysia. Constructed on a marshland amidst green plantation, and inspired by Islamic architectures, this area will also work as the permanent residence of the most powerful persons in Malaysia – their ministers.
The major top attractions of Putrajaya are dotted in front of the waterfront. So, go to the waterfront straight away and appreciate the beauty of the pink-domed Putra Mosque which can accommodate 15,000 worshipers on a single go. There is a huge square in front of this mosque to observe the vibrant life around. From here, you can also enjoy the Putrajaya lake, which has a wonderful white bridge.
Once you have enough of the mosque and the lake, stretch your leg a bit to reach Perdana Putra, the office of the Malaysian prime minister. This wonderfully made architecture will surely inspire you with awe. You may continue exploring more architectures like Seri Perdana, Wisma Putra, or head straight to Taman Putra Perdana, which is a quiet hilltop park. You will be able to enjoy a pleasant landscape and get a wonderful view of the town.
If you visit Putrajaya during the weekend, you might have an eerie feeling as it can become absolutely quiet. Experience Putrajaya before people goes in a flock.
Putrajaya is strategically placed between Kuala Lumpur and the airport (KILA), therefore g etting from KILA or Kuala Lumpur to Putrajaya is extremely easy by taking a taxi, train, or bus.
Recommended by A Walk in the World
Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru is a Malaysian town and state located in the south of inland Malaysia just on the border with Singapore. At first glance, it’s a small town, which doesn’t have much to offer. But once you start exploring you discover that JB (locals quite often refer to town just by its initials) is an exciting place to be.
The old town is nothing pretty but it does have its own charm and it’s a perfect place to explore eateries and coffee shops, which have such mouthwatering (and cheap) food that neighboring Singapourians travel here weekly for a weekend feast. The favorite restaurant for many is the Flowers in the Window.
One of the best attractions in JB, especially if you visit with a family is LEGOLAND. Unlimited rollercoaster rides, Lego workshops, and much more will satisfy everyone young at heart.
In addition, Johor Bahru is a great place for shopping; even though the town is small it does have big shopping malls with all big brands and knock off all.
And if or when you get bored of Johor Bahru, Singapore is only 45 minutes away by public transport or a taxi.
Recommended by The Traveling Twins
Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands is a beautiful hilltop resort city and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malaysia. The real charm of the town, however, lies in the relaxed atmosphere, which together with its wonderful resorts and scenic surroundings, makes for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
The city is bestowed with nature’s best endeavors in the form of a pleasantly cool environment, gorgeous strawberry farms, hilly landscapes, and greenness.
Its Resorts World Genting is famous for hosting the only legal casinos in Malaysia. In addition to this, the resort is home to a world-class indoor theme park, gaming arenas, restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, spa centers, live shows, and various shopping outlets.
Your adventure starts right at the onset of your trip through the Awana Skyway cable car ride which takes you from Kuala Lumpur city to Genting Highlands . The breathtaking beauty of the green valleys, forests, and hills unfold before you and leave you mesmerized.
Once you are at the Resorts World Genting, participate in the plethora of entertainment activities. The central arena designed like New York City’s Times Square hosts live shows. The area also has a replica of the Statue of Liberty. This arena has all the popular food outlets offering a variety of cuisines too.
Apart from Resorts World Genting, make a visit to the marvelous strawberry leisure farms, Arena of Stars – a musical amphitheater, Sky Avenue Concept Mall, or enjoy the cool climate at the green spaces which are closely located to the resort.
The best time to visit Genting Highlands is March till September when the temperature is cool and there is very little rainfall.
Join an organized tour to Genting Highlands from Kuala Lumpur as a day trip
Recommended by Cheerful Trails
Kuching
Kuching is the capital of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo. The easiest way to reach Kuching is by plane with direct flights from Malaysian cities.
Known as the Cat City , Kuching’s name comes from the Malay word for cat, making it one of the unique and best places to visit in Malaysia. Kuching embraces this and has cat statues spread around the city. Additionally, City Hall houses a Cat Museum.
Make sure to visit Fort Margherita constructed in 1879 by Rajah of Sarawak, Charles Brooke. It is now a museum and gallery with exhibits about the Brooke family. Other Kuching attractions include the Sarawak Museum and the Natural History Museum. Close by is the Islamic Heritage Museum and the beautiful Kuching City Mosque. Don’t forget to check out the Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple near the Kuching Waterfront.
Alternatively, spend a day exploring Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about many indigenous groups that live in the region. Nature-lovers should visit Semenggoh Nature Reserve to see the orangutans, as they come twice a day to eat at the center. In addition, the reserve is home to other animals such as crocodiles and birds. To get to the reserve , catch a bus from Mosque Rd.
Another notable area to explore is Bako National Park to see the Proboscis Monkeys. Walk on its trails to spot monkeys and boars. Getting it is easy by a number 1 red public bus from the Kuching Waterfront. [More on the Bako National Park below]
After all this sightseeing, you will need to treat yourself to delicious meals, as Kuching is famous for its incredible food .
Recommended By Beth at Frugal Female Abroad
Malaysian Islands
Sipadan island – best for scuba diving in malaysia.
The spectacular Sipidan diving paradise is one of the most exotic and offbeat locations , not just in Malaysia but also throughout the world! Sipadan is Malaysia’s largest ocean island, rises an astounding 600 meters from the vast Sulawesi Sea seafloor (off the eastern coast of Sabah State).
Previously an active volcano, it has been formed by living corals that have made their home here over thousands of years. Today this unfamiliar environment has an amazingly vibrant pelagic marine ecosystem and is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.
Not to mention, it has some of the nation’s most excellent scuba diving. This tropical paradise sits just five degrees north of the equator and houses more than 2000 species of fish and scores of colorful coral species.
It is a popular spot for divers to find hawksbill turtles, parrotfish, and barracuda. Also, regular guests are manta rays, eagle rays, the majestic hammerhead sharks, and mammoth whale sharks. Although you might see one or two turtles on a dive in other parts of the world (if you are lucky), on Sipidan, you will almost always see more than twenty.
There are a dozen popular dive sites on the island. Turtle Cavern, Barracuda Point, and the Hanging Gardens are among the most prominent.
Sipadan Island is legally guarded, so tourists can’t sleep on the island any longer. They instead remain on Mabul Island and receive a permit provided by the Sabah government supplier of local diving operators. Every day, they give out around 179 permits . Therefore, sometimes they are booked in advance for months. So if you want to visit this incredible place in Malaysia, plan ahead.
Recommended By Inspired By Maps
Redang Island – relaxing and isolated getaway
One of the largest islands off the east coast of the Malaysian peninsula, Redang Island is well known for its crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches, and an abundance of marine life.
Located in a marine park sanctuary in the Kuala Nerus District of Terengganu, it is a haven for those in need of an isolated getaway in a natural, undisturbed surrounding. While many travels here for a relaxed beach holiday, the island has plenty of activities to enjoy.
There is the opportunity to snorkel and scuba dive as it boasts beautiful hard and soft coral gardens and sandy bottom sites. In addition to your typical tropical marine life, expect a diversity of tropical reef life as well as an abundance of sea life.
You will also find a calm lagoon lined with mangroves behind the shore that offers seclusion, resulting in very little current flow and a safe place to swim. The island has some of the best beaches in Malaysia while the rainforests that cover much of the interior are home to a number of waterfalls and fauna.
The region has something to offer for every visitor and no traveling to Malaysia is complete without a stay to what is often considered to be one of the best islands to visit .
Recommended By A Rai of Light
The Perhentian Islands – perfect for diving in Malaysia
The Perhentian Islands is a spectacular tropical paradise located close to the coast of North-East Malaysia. Beautiful coral reefs rich in marine life and long powder white sandy beaches surround the islands.
The two main Perhentian islands are Pulau Perhentian Besar (The Big Island) and Pulau Perhentian Kecil, the Small Perhentian Island. There is fantastic diving around the Perhentian Islands , the archipelago surrounding the islands is accessible by small boat with plenty of fantastic reef and wreck dive sites. The reef close to the islands offers great snorkeling in the crystal clear, warm water with beautiful coral formations, reef sharks, large bump head parrotfish, and plenty of other amazing creatures that can be seen snorkeling from the beach.
The beautiful sandy beaches are great for swimming with nice hiking trails leading into the surrounding forest. You have to walk everywhere on these islands or take a boat taxi , there are no roads or cars!
To get to the Perhentian islands fly to Kota Bharu Airport (KBR) and take a taxi to Kuala Besut Jetty . From the jetty take a boat to the Perhentian Islands.
The Perhentian Islands have a variety of accommodation ranging from beautiful luxury accommodation to camping. Perhentian Besar is the honeymoon island , less developed with more expensive resorts and restaurants, while Perhentian Kecil attracts more budget travelers with a chilled-out backpacker vibe and many dive centers.
Recommended By Stingy Nomads
Tioman Island – tropical Malaysian island getaway
For anyone who is a nature lover who likes to escape it all on tropical beaches, don’t miss Tioman Island! Located off the southeastern part of peninsular Malaysia, Tioman is easily reached by ferry from Mersing or Tanjung Gemok which can be reached in a couple of hours from Singapore or Johor Bahru. The 1.5-2 hour ferry (depending on which part of the island you disembark) is easy and part of the adventure with great views of Tioman Island on the way in. There is a Marine Park entrance fee to enter the island to be paid before hopping on your ferry.
The island itself is stunning with a great coastline and a mountainous interior filled with jungle. There are only a few roads and most exploration is possible by foot or boat. Most attractions are based in the sea, with great marine life to check out via snorkeling or diving, or on land, with great hiking opportunities.
Tioman Island offers many water sports activities, some great beaches to explore, and many boat trips. There is also a turtle sanctuary and a Marine Park Information Centre.
There is a range of accommodation on the island but prices are more expensive than on the mainland . The best choice is the Berjaya Tioman which is connected by road to a couple of places for easy exploration. For other suggestions on where to stay in Tioman, read this guide here .
Tioman Island is affected by monsoonal weather from late October and much of the island shut at this time with ferries unreliable. It’s best to visit at other times unless you are a surfer with Juara Beach a popular spot at this time.
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Pangkor Island – great to spot Hornbills
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten, yet one of the best places in Malaysia, consider Pangkor Island as a day or overnight trip. The easiest way to get there is either from Ipoh (~1.5-hour drive) or Kuala Lumpur (~3-hour drive). You need to drive to Lumut and catch one of the regular passenger ferries (you leave your vehicle in Lumut). Or, you can catch a bus from Kuala Lumpur.
The main reason for visiting Pangkor Island is the hornbills because of their unique look. Every day during the sunset dozens of them come to the area surrounding the main beach, Pantai Pasir Bogak. There’s no way to miss seeing them. Afterward, you can indulge yourself with a meal sold at the few street food stalls on the beachfront.
There are a few other beaches along the west coast of the island, but if you’re interested in water activities Pantai Pasir Bogak is the coast for you.
There are a couple of temples on the island to visit, such as Fu Ling Kong and the Sri Pathirakaliamman temples. And if you ask around, there are guides to take you through short hikes and help you spot the wildlife.
To get around Pangkor Island , you can walk but given the heat, the fun pink taxis will be your main form of transport. The island is becoming carbon-free, so the taxi you catch might be an electric vehicle! And you can let your friends know about the sustainable travel aspect of Pangkor.
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Spotting Malaysia Wildlife
The kinabatangan river .
The Kinabatangan River in Malaysian Borneo provides a stunning opportunity for Malaysian wildlife spotting and on a low budget too. This area of Malaysia is easily reached by bus or plane from Kota Kinabalu and is the perfect place to see orangutans in the wild as well as at a nearby sanctuary.
The Sun Bear Rescue Centre and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre [more on this below] are well worth a day of your time to visit. The Kinabatangan River is located close to the town of Sandakan and is the second-longest river in Malaysia.
Most Malaysian wildlife here is from river trips – there are crocodiles, macaques, monitor lizards, and a large variety of birdlife. The stars of the wildlife show here, though, are the wild orangutans, Proboscis monkeys, and the gorgeous Asian pygmy elephants. Only 1500 of these smallest elephants remain in Asia and they’re fabulous.
These Malaysia wildlife spotting trips are mostly offered as part of an all-inclusive accommodation; food and trips deal by lodges and bed and breakfasts along the riverbank, but you can find rooms here for as little as $12 a night.
There are no National Park fees here, transport is easily arranged – or included – from Sandakan and some lodges, like the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort, are built directly onto the river and offer dorm room facilities.
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Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
One of the best places to visit in Malaysia is the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sepilok, in North Borneo. Founded in 1964, the center was built to rehabilitate injured, orphaned, and rescued orangutans. Its located at the edge of the Kabili Sepilok Forest Reserve and trains Orangutans on how to survive in the forest.
The center has around 60 to 80 orangutans living there, so you can come and see them. As Orangutans are becoming much harder to see in the wild, the center provides a fantastic opportunity to see these amazing creatures up close while supporting their conservation.
The center is opened every day of the year for visitors. The ticket counter is opened from 09:00am to 11:00pm and 14:00pm to 15:30pm. Visitors can see the Orangutans being fed at 10 am and 3 pm. Tickets cost 30 MYR for foreign tourists , which allows you to see both feedings. There is an additional 10 MYR fee if you want to bring a camera . Getting to see these playful, intelligent mammals is a wonderful experience to add to your Malaysia bucket list.
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Danum Valley Conservation Area
Danum Valley Conservation Area in the Sabah region of Borneo is a great place to visit. It is one of the few remaining areas of virgin rainforest on Borneo and because it is a designated conservation area, the ubiquitous palm plantations can’t encroach on it.
It has incredible biodiversity, so this is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia and Borneo to see wildlife. The only place to stay in the conservation area is Borneo Rainforest Lodge . For a cheaper option , the Danum Valley Research Center, which is just outside the conservation area, has basic accommodations.
However, for the full Danum Valley experience, the best choice is the ecolodge in the middle of the valley. Comfortable rooms are reached over elevated wooden walkways and an enormous lodge house with open walls, where all meals are served, faces a jungled escarpment.
Guided hikes and meals are included in the all-inclusive rate. There is a canopy walk through the treetops, which is great for bird watching and also gives a good chance of seeing orangutans . Hikes go through the steamy jungle to the top of a cliff overlooking the lodge, past ancient burial sites, and to a waterfall. It’s even possible to get a “fish spa” by having small fish, which gather in a shallow area of the river, nibble the dead skin off your feet.
A guided night walk and a night drive give the opportunity to see many of the nocturnal creatures in the jungle, including bug-eyed tarsiers, lemurs clinging to the trunks of trees, and giant flying squirrels leaping between the trees.
The nearest airport is Lahad Datu, where Borneo Rainforest Lodge has an office. From there, they supply a driver for the two-hour drive to the lodge.
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Sabah is a state in East Malaysia on the northern part of the island of Borneo. For most adventure-seekers, what makes Sabah one of the best places to visit in Malaysia is its famous mountain, Mount Kinabalu . Mount Kinabalu (4095m) is the tallest mountain in Malaysia and has stunning granite spires. Besides being home to Malaysia’s highest peak, Sabah also has incredibly beautiful beaches and coral reefs as well as lush rainforests, national parks, and wildlife reserves that are abundant with wildlife.
Sabah is ideal for nature-lovers and Malaysia wildlife spotting one of the best places in Malaysia to visit if you love nature and wildlife. It is home to the critically endangered orangutan , a species that shares 97% of genes with human beings. Here, you have a good chance of spotting them along with Proboscis monkeys in its jungles.
The city is also a perfect base if you want to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre just 25 km away from the city, or taking a cruise along the Kinabatangan River offers a chance to spot the Bornean pygmy elephant.
Most visitors get to Sabah by flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. As there are so many attractions in Sabah for wildlife lovers, you’ll want to spend at least a week or more exploring the forests and visiting the reserves.
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National Parks in Malaysia
Bako national park / sarawak, malaysia.
Bako National Park is the kind of place that you rarely find these days. Hidden away on the island of Borneo, it is accessible only by a combination of a car and motorboat . It’s not an easy feat to get to, but it’s well worth it for secluded beaches, endemic wildlife, and dense rainforest.
The best thing to do in Bako is to hike along the many uncrowded trails that weave through the jungle and out to the beaches. The beaches are nice enough, but what you’re really looking for is Malaysian wildlife. If you’re lucky, you may see bearded pigs, mouse deer, civets, macaques, and the best-recognized creature of Malaysia, the Proboscis monkeys. Nighttime unlocks a whole host of other wildlife, insects, reptiles, and nocturnal creatures.
You can get to Bako from Kuching via bus or private car . From Bako Bazaar, it’s just a 20-minute trip to the Teluk Assam jetty by motorboat. Boats usually leave every hour from 8 am to 4 pm , but they typically only depart when they’re full . You can charter a private boat if you’re in a hurry. You can stay either in a forest lodge or a campsite, but because of the persistently muggy weather, stay at the lodge. Rooms start from 40 MYR .
There are surely better beaches in the world. Nature reserves with more dense wildlife or better hiking trails. But the real reason Bako is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia is for the rare travel experience in a place that is uncrowded and still very local.
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Taman Negara National Park
Taman Negara National Park is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, perfect for nature lovers looking for more than pristine beaches in Malaysia. This is the most primitive virgin rainforest in the world, created more than 130 million years ago (according to the experts), which makes it much older than the Amazonian forest in South America!
Taman Negara is located 240 km northeast of Kuala Lumpur, and it is very easy to reach by car , which makes it the perfect weekend getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. If you don’t have your own car , some of the hotels located in the park or nearby can arrange a pick up from Kuala Lumpur for an extra fee.
On-site, there are many outdoor activities, from great hiking trails to boating trips to guided excursions to explore the park’s wildlife. You can also decide to just lay on a hammock and relax with your favorite book (with the monkey’s permission) surrounded by the enchanting noise of the jungle.
Amongst all the hotels in Taman Negara, Mutiara Taman Negara Resort is the only hotel located inside the park so visitors can enjoy the jungle during all their stay. The bungalows spread along the property are pretty and with all the comforts for the modern guest, and they are located at only a few meters of the nearest hiking trails.
Travel to Taman Negara from Kuala Lumpur on a full-day tour
Recommended By World in Paris
Gunung Mulu National Park
Gunung Mulu National Park is one of the most beautiful parks to visit, not just in Malaysia but in all of Asia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its craggy peaks and cave system which is the largest in the world by surface area.
Some of the most popular caves to explore are Lang Cave, Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, Wind Cave, and Lady Cave. They each have their own unique charms and otherworldly landscapes made up of unique rock formations, swathes of greenery, stalagmites, coral structures, and more.
Deer Cave is the most well-known for the mass bat exodus which takes place each evening at dusk. The bats leave the cave in the thousands in search of food. There is a viewing platform to watch the spectacle.
Mulu Pinnacles are the other star attraction in Gunung Mulu National Park. These interesting rock formations are located in a remote area of the park. To reach them, visitors must embark on a grueling 3-day hike. However, it is well worth the effort.
Recommended By Drink Tea & Travel
My favorite travel Resources
✈ Book affordable flights on WayAway , a platform that shows the best flight deals, tours, and hotels. With a WayAway Plus membership, you can earn cashback . Get 10% off with code: RFD10
🚫 Get compensation for up to 700$ with Airhelp if your flight was canceled or delayed within the last 3 years.
🚗 Rent a car with DiscoverCars , a trusted international car rental website.
💻 Get a VPN from Surfshark to protect your devices from hackers when using public Wi-Fi when traveling.
📱 Install the Airalo app , which provides local eSIMs for a more affordable internet connection when traveling. Get 3 USD with code: BAIA2592 .
💸 Use Wise to withdraw money in local currency without hidden fees and avoid high exchange rates. On top of that, you might get a Visa or Mastercard debit card .
🏨 Find budget-friendly deals on all sorts of accommodation types on Booking.com .
❣ Pre-book a private car transfer with Welcome Pickups to your hotel.
🩺 Buy the most flexible and budget-friendly travel insurance, SafetyWing , covering COVID with add-ons for adventure sports and electronics theft.
☀ Book in advance some of the best city walks, cultural experiences, and day tours to maximize your stay and experience here.
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Kuala Lumpur 2-Day Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Posted on Last updated: January 26, 2024
Need help planning your Kuala Lumpur 2-day itinerary? You’ve come to the right place!
In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about spending two days in Kuala Lumpur. Including a detailed itinerary, tips on how to get around the city, where to eat, where to stay and more.
The Malaysian capital is a vibrant and lively city, with an incredible mix of traditional and modern.
Kuala Lumpur is home to the iconic Petronas Towers, the colourful Batu Caves, beautiful botanical gardens, delicious street food and much more.
Over the years I have travelled a lot around Southeast Asia, but this was my first time visiting Malaysia. And after seeing how great it is, I don’t know why I waited so long to visit!
So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and start planning the perfect weekend in Kuala Lumpur!
- 1.1 How many days do you need in Kuala Lumpur?
- 1.2 How to get around Kuala Lumpur
- 1.3 Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
- 1.4 What to pack for Kuala Lumpur in 2 days
- 1.5 Do you need travel insurance for 2 days in Kuala Lumpur?
- 2.1 Visit the famous Batu Caves
- 2.2 Wander around KLCC Park
- 2.3 See Petronas Twin Towers
- 2.4 Lunch at Signatures Food Court, Suria KLCC
- 2.5 See the view from KL Tower
- 2.6 Walk around KL Forest Eco Park
- 2.7 Have some down time by the pool
- 2.8 Head to Jalan Alor Street Food Market for dinner
- 3.1 Visit Thean Hou Temple
- 3.2 Explore Brickfields (Little India)
- 3.3 Explore Chinatown & Petaling Street Market
- 3.4 Visit Merdeka Square
- 3.5 Enjoy sunset drinks with a view
Exploring the beautiful Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Logistical tips for your weekend in Kuala Lumpur
Before we dive into our detailed 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary, I want to go over some useful logistics information, which will help you make the most of your time in Kuala Lumpur.
How many days do you need in Kuala Lumpur?
Working out how many days you should spend in Kuala Lumpur is obviously up to you and your travel style. Kuala Lumpur is very popular with digital nomads, since it’s very affordable and well connected to the rest of South East Asia.
Many travellers that are on a long travelling stint often end up spending a while in Kuala Lumpur, just recharging, working, and enjoying the beautiful sights of this city for a cheap price tag.
However, if you’re on a tight schedule and have other places to see in your Malaysia itinerary, you obviously won’t have this luxury. Even though it’s a huge city, I’d still say you can get a good feel for Kuala Lumpur in 2 days.
Two days is enough to see the city’s main highlights. In two days in Kuala Lumpur you can explore unique temples like Batu Caves and Thean Hou Temple, as well as cool viewpoints and street food markets.
The beautiful details of Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
How to get around Kuala Lumpur
One thing you should consider when you’re using my 2 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary is transport. This is going to be crucial in making the most of your time.
Grab is super efficient and affordable (even more so if you’re in a group). Even though normal taxis are around double the price, they are still very affordable compared to European ones.
Public transport in Kuala Lumpur is good. It’s affordable and well connected. There are even several free bus routes, run by GoKL City Bus, which cover tourist hotspots including Chinatown and Bukit Bintang.
You can grab a cashless Touch n Go (TnG) card, which you can charge with cash then tap to ride on trains and buses. Pick these up at larger train stations and at the airport.
Enjoying the views over Kuala Lumpur from KL Tower
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
Generally speaking, I would say stick to the KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) area, especially if you’ve only got 2 nights in Kuala Lumpur.
As the name suggests, this district is central. You’ll be close to everything and if you pick a skyscraper, you will likely have great views over the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
One of the great things about choosing where to stay in Kuala Lumpur is that there are lots of very affordable apartments in skyscrapers with rooftop infinity pools. That way you have somewhere awesome to chill at the end of each day.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur for every budget.
Budget – Chinatown Hostel by Mingle : Located among the sights and sounds of KL’s Chinatown, this cool hostel is the place to base yourself on a budget. From here, you can easily stroll to night markets or hop on the train and explore further afield.
The building itself is an old colonial shop house and features an array of charming social spaces and cute design details. The rooftop terrace here is the place to be for meeting your fellow travellers.
Click here to book your stay at Chinatown Hostel by Mingle in Kuala Lumpur!
Going for a swim in the rooftop pool of our accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Mid-range – ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre : This branch of the international chain Ibis is located right in the middle of KL – just 750 metres from the Petronas Towers, in fact.
The hotel itself is modern and polished, with comfortable rooms equipped with all the amenities you’ll need. It also has a rooftop infinity swimming pool with panoramic views out across the city, two on-site restaurants and a fitness centre.
Click here to see prices & availability at ibis KLCC!
Luxury – Ascott Star KLCC : Treat yourself to an incredible stay at this high-end gem. Rooms come in a range of sizes and include private kitchenettes so you can make yourself at home.
Boasting incredible views of the Petronas Towers, staying here means relaxing in some seriously chic spaces, from the rooftop infinity pool to the slick fitness centre – there are even a library and kids play area.
Don’t miss out, click here to book your stay at Ascott Star KLCC!
The monkeys of Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
What to pack for Kuala Lumpur in 2 days
There aren’t really any specific things you should pack for Kuala Lumpur besides your usual travel essentials. After all, it’s a huge city with great shopping opportunities! Still, here are a few things it’s easier to always have on you.
Waterproof jacket – if you’re visiting in rainy season, you will need one of these!
Water bottle – lots of hotels and restaurants have water refills, by having your own reusable water bottle you can reduce your plastic consumption and monetary expense, it’s a win-win!
Adapter – depending on where you come from you might need one of these to charge your electronics. I like to use an international one so that it can work for multiple destinations.
Power bank – if you’re out and about all day you don’t want your phone to die on you just as you’re about to snap a great photo of the beautiful temples in Kuala Lumpur!
You won’t really need them in Kuala Lumpur, but it’s still a good idea to bring a fast drying towel and dry bag to Malaysia, especially if you’re planning on heading to the islands after Kuala Lumpur!
Modern and old contrasts in Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Do you need travel insurance for 2 days in Kuala Lumpur?
After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .
You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with Heymondo .
Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).
Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.
Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !
Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!
Exploring the beautiful Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur itinerary 2 days: Day 1
Visit the famous batu caves.
Your itinerary for Kuala Lumpur begins with a trip to Batu Caves, the most famous temple in the city and one of the most important Hindu religious sites outside of India.
It’s a little way out of the centre of town, so make the journey as early as possible to avoid crowds (the KTM Komuter train goes directly there from KL Sentral).
Dedicated to Murugan (the Hindu god of war), the temple came into being in 1890, with access improved in 1920 with the addition of wooden stairs. Today it is a huge cave complex complete with illuminations and colourful shrines.
Besides the cave and temple itself, the most famous sight of Batu Caves is probably its entrance, with the colourful staircase and huge golden Murugan Statue.
The iconic staircase and Murugan Statue of Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
We visited Batu Caves at 9AM and when we first arrived it was fairly empty, but by the time we left around 10:30AM it was getting very busy and the staircase up to the cave was pretty rammed.
Head there early to avoid the crowds, and the monkeys! While there are monkeys at Batu Caves all the time, they’re not as pesky early in the morning. Don’t carry any food with view, or they will attack you to steal it!
You can easily spend a few hours at Batu Caves. Between admiring the beautiful exterior, heading up the staircase, and exploring the inside of the caves, there’s lots to see.
If you don’t want to worry about how to get to Batu Caves, you can book a half-day tour like this one , which includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.
Click here to book your half-day tour to Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur!
Inside the cave and temple of Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Wander around KLCC Park
Once you’re back from Batu Caves, the next step for your 48 hours in Kuala Lumpur is to head to KLCC Park.
You can take the Kelana Jaya Line from KL Sentral (17 minutes) or just hail a Grab (the journey by road is about 10 minutes).
It’s a nice place to wander, sit and people-watch for a while – and all with views of the Petronas Towers.
There are splash pools where kids play, which is cute, but also if you come back at night the fountains (and the towers) are illuminated.
Wandering the forest paths of Kuala Lumpur Eco Forest Park
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
See Petronas Twin Towers
These famous towers are definitely what you should see in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days – or any amount of days really!
At just over 450 metres tall, these are the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world and have been since they were completed in 1999. In fact, they were the tallest building in the world at one point, until Taipei 101 was finished in 2004.
From KLCC Park, you can walk below the Petronas Towers to the famous Petronas “photo spot”, where you can grab a photo of the tallest twin towers in the world and the water fountains below them.
If you’re a fan of city views, you can head up to the towers’ viewing deck at level 86 – only problem being that the iconic towers themselves won’t be visible!
The towers even have a bridge link (level 41 and 42) connecting them, which you can walk across (partly, at least). Visiting hours are 9 AM to 9PM.
If you want to visiting the viewing deck of Petronas Towers, make sure to purchase your fast track ticket online . You only have two days in Kuala Lumpur after all, you don’t want to waste them queueing!
Click here to purchase your Skip-the-Line entrance ticket to Petronas Twin Towers!
The famous Petronas Twin Towers of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Lunch at Signatures Food Court, Suria KLCC
Food in Malaysia is among the best in the world – mainly because there’s so much on offer. No Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary should be complete without hitting up a food court.
I love food courts because they are affordable places to grab a bite to eat, and with a ton of different options too. It’s perfect for groups of friends, so everyone can eat whatever they want, but you can still sit all together.
Your option right now is at Suria KLCC, a huge mall situated at the bottom of Petronas Towers with an epic food court to match.
It’s open 10 AM to 10 PM, and serves everything from sushi to Thai food. Great for lunch on the go.
A delicious noodle dish I had at a food court in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
See the view from KL Tower
For epic views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline, I suggest heading to KL Tower.
This 421-metre-tall telecommunications tower began life in 1991, and is the place for 360-degree views of the city that include Petronas Towers in the skyline.
Hop in a Grab and you’ll be here in less than 10 minutes (otherwise it’s a sweaty half hour walk).
Besides the classic observation deck, there’s also the Sky Box, a literal cube of glass that makes you feel like you’re floating in the city. A great photo opportunity, but you’ll definitely have to wait if you want to experience it.
We skipped the Sky Box as there was over an hour wait time for it, plus we felt like the views from the viewing deck were sufficiently awesome without standing over a glass bridge.
KL Tower is open from 10AM to 10PM. We went in the middle of the day, but you could also head there later if you want to see the sun go down over the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
Click here to purchase your entrance ticket to KL Tower!
Enjoying the view over Kuala Lumpur from KL Tower
KL Tower seen from Kuala Lumpur Eco Forest Park
Walk around KL Forest Eco Park
Right next door to KL Tower you’ll find KL Eco Forest Park. This lush haven of nature in the middle of the city, also known as Menara Kuala Lumpur, is a very cool contrast between forest and city.
KL Eco Forest Park – which was originally made a reserve in 1906 – is a great spot when it’s hot in the city, since you can find some shade and feel a bit cooler being close to all the lush greenery.
It’s clean and well maintained, and is home to the famous treetop skywalk. Once you enter the park, I suggest you walk down to the end of the treetop skywalk, and do it in reverse back towards the entrance.
This way you will have unique views of KL Tower peeking through the trees as you walk along the skywalk, instead of having it at your back, and you won’t then have to hike back up the hill.
Walking around the trails of the park really makes you feel worlds away from the urban rush of Malaysia’s capital.
Walking along the famous treetop skywalk of KL Eco Forest Park, with KL Tower in the background
Have some down time by the pool
If you’ve booked a hotel or apartment with its own infinity pool (and I really recommend this; there are a bunch of affordable options), then it’s time to chill out for the remainder of the afternoon.
Sit back and enjoy the view, maybe even enjoy the sunset view over KL as you swim in the infinity pool, until it’s time to get ready to head out for dinner.
The pool of Platinum Suites in Kuala Lumpur by night
Head to Jalan Alor Street Food Market for dinner
Make sure you turn up hungry, as this night market is where it’s at. As the biggest night market in the city, visiting here to eat and drink is definitely one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
It’s the perfect way to end the day, and a great way to learn more about the culture and gastronomic delights of the capital. Food is affordable, there are bars to hop into, and the atmosphere is top notch.
Personally, I really liked Jalan Alor Street Food Market. It seemed very clean and organised, especially when compared to other street food markets in Asia.
It’s a great place to try delicious and cheap local food. But it’s not limited to Malaysian food, we also saw loads of food stalls with Thai food, as well as Japanese mochi.
If you want to make sure you try all the best local food, you can join a local street food night tour like this one . I love food tours, as they give you a great insight into local culture, plus there’s no risk of ending up in a tourist trap!
Click here to book your Jalan Alor street food night tour!
Walking down Jalan Alor Street Food Market in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Looking for more Kuala Lumpur travel inspiration? Check out my vlog below!
2 Days Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: Day 2
Visit thean hou temple.
Day 2 of your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur kicks off with a trip to Thean Hou Temple. If you’re staying in Chinatown, it’s 5 minutes by road (take a Grab – it’s easy).
The colourful temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu opened in 1989, and was built by the Hainanese community of Malaysia.
The sprawling temple grounds showcase a mix of modern techniques and traditional design elements that make for an interesting place to wander for a while.
As well as the complex itself, there’s places where you can grab a souvenir or a bite to eat. As an added bonus, the view of the KL skyline from here is pretty good, too. The temple is open 9AM to 6PM, and entrance is free.
I have to admit that while I’d already seen the staircase of Batu Caves countless of times on social media before visiting Malaysia, I’d never heard of Thean Hou Temple. Which is why I was surprised to see how beautiful it was.
Thean Hou Temple is easily the most beautiful temple we saw during our Malaysia trip (even more beautiful than the famous temples in Georgetown )!
Explore Brickfields (Little India)
It’s either a 22-minute walk or a 5-minute Grab ride to Brickfields (aka Little India) on the way back to KLCC. This heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Indian community is awash with jewellery sellers, textile shops and eateries.
It’s a cool place to explore and an even more fun place to eat.
I stopped off at Bricks Factory Cafe for a bite and a coffee. It’s a modern spot for Indian cuisine like thali, but also Malaysian goodies like kaya toast.
I recommend going on a walking tour of the area, which is stretched along Jalan Tun Sambanthan.
If you don’t want to pay for a tour, head over to Bricks Factory Cafe for a coffee, and scan the QR code and map they have painted on the wall. It links to a 2.5-hour walking tour of the area, which you can follow to see the main sights.
Exploring Little India in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Explore Chinatown & Petaling Street Market
Take the KL1075 bus (or a Grab) to Petaling Street Market. In around 10 minutes you’ll be in Chinatown and among various stores and shops that are great for souvenirs (and food, of course).
It first sprang up in the late 19th century during the “Tin Rush”, which saw Cantonese and Hakka settlers from southern China make their way to KL to make their fortunes.
Today, exploring Chinatown is easily one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur, so make sure you spend some time wandering Petaling Street – the central area strung with lanterns and edged with a whole host of shops and eateries).
It’s a must if you’re in the city for any amount of time. Although there’s a ton of old shop houses to check out, one you shouldn’t miss is Ho Kow Kopitiam.
Founded in 1956, it’s still going and attracts crowds with its curries, Chinese bites, kaya toast and super strong coffee – all at affordable prices. Perfect for a pick-me-up!
Exploring Jalan Petaling Street Market in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur
Visit Merdeka Square
Merdeka Square (or Independence Square) can be found a 12-minute walk from the heart of Chinatown – or about a 5-minute Grab ride away – across the Klang River.
This wasn’t always a square, however. In the early days of the city’s founding it was used by local communities to grow food. After that it was declared the site of colonial government buildings for the British, and became home to a cricket green at one point too.
Malaya, as it was then, gained independence from the British Empire in 1957, and more than 20,000 people gathered in this very square to witness the declaration take place. The handover of power occurred at midnight, when all the lights in the square were turned on to a huge cheer.
Today the historic landmark offers an insight into the history and culture of Malaysia. Note that it can be really hot here as there’s no shade, so make sure you wear a hat.
View over the skyline of Kuala Lumpur from the top of the Batu Caves staircase
Enjoy sunset drinks with a view
To round up your 48 hours in Kuala Lumpur, head to the chic SkyBar. It’s just 10 minutes away from Merdeka Square if you hail a Grab. You’ll find it at the top of Traders Hotel, on the 33rd floor.
Compared to other restaurants (and definitely compared to street food), it’s considerably more expensive, but it’s worth it. Having sunset drinks with views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline is something else.
Another option is Deep Blue (6 minutes away via Grab). This is set at the 51st floor of The Face Hotel. It’s a very cool space complete with tapas for light bites and plenty of cocktails and other drink options.
And all complete with views of the Petronas Towers and KL Tower.
Night view over Kuala Lumpur from a rooftop bar
Final thoughts on what to see in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days
There you have it, the ultimate itinerary for two days in Kuala Lumpur! Have you been to Kuala Lumpur before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!
Kuala Lumpur is a great city, with plenty of tourist attractions to keep you busy for two days.
While you could definitely spend longer in Kuala Lumpur, I personally think two days is the perfect amount of time if you also have other stops in your Malaysia itinerary.
After Kuala Lumpur we travelled on to the Cameron Highlands , Ipoh and Langkawi , which made for a great Malaysia trip. We had a good mix of nature, city, culture, and beach escapes.
In Kuala Lumpur you will find some of the tallest buildings in the world, delicious street food markets, a unique blend of cultures and religions, and affordable luxury hotels.
It’s honestly one of the most unique cities I have ever visited. I hope you will enjoy your two days in Kuala Lumpur just as much as I did! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below.
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The Perfect 2 Days Kuala Lumpur Itinerary
11. September 2023 by tabithaschr Leave a Comment
Planning a trip to Malaysia and don’t know how to spend the perfect 2 days in Kuala Lumpur? Then this Kuala Lumpur itinerary will help you with your plans! This blog post is all about how to spend unforgettable 48 hours in this dazzling city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity.
When planning your trip to Malaysia, it’s most likely that you will have to decide on where to spend how many days of your vacation. With beautiful places like Kuala Lumpur, Sepilok, Kinabatangan Wetlands, Perhentian Islands, Langkawi and the Cameron Highlands (of course, the list goes on), it’s really hard to plan out an itinerary that fits in all of it.
Since we’re more into nature, we opted for 2 days in Kuala Lumpur . Of course, with all the sights to see and culture to experience, you might wonder how you can fit everything into a 2 days Kuala Lumpur itinerary . Whilst you might not be able to see every corner of Malaysia’s vibrant capital city, 2 days in Kuala Lumpur will allow you to discover the city’s best bits.
Why should you visit Kuala Lumpur?
- It’s most certainly one of the best places to start your journey in Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of cultures with a harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences
- The city is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Petronas Twin Towers
- Kuala Lumpur is a food lover’s paradise
Best time to visit Kuala Lumpur
Firstly, Kuala Lumpur has a tropical rainforest climate . Yes, although it’s a city it’s characterised by high humidity and fairly consistent temperatures throughout the year. This means that you really cannot go wrong with visiting Kuala Lumpur during any time of the year as you might experience rain during the dry season or see no rain at all during the rainy season. The weather is not that predictable anymore.
Anyways, here are the main seasons to consider:
- Dry Season (June to August and December to February): This is generally considered the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur. During these months, you can expect less rainfall and more pleasant weather. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city without the frequent afternoon showers that are common during other times of the year. However, be prepared for higher tourist crowds during these months, especially around major holidays.
- Monsoon Season (March to April and September to November): Kuala Lumpur experiences two monsoon seasons. While it’s not the ideal time for travel, it’s still possible to visit during these periods. The rain showers are typically heavy but short-lived, often occurring in the late afternoon or evening. If you don’t mind occasional rain and want to take advantage of lower hotel rates and fewer tourists, this might be a budget-friendly time to visit.
- Transitional Months (May and October): May and October mark the transitional months between the wet and dry seasons. The weather can be somewhat unpredictable, with occasional rain showers, but it’s generally manageable for travel. Prices may be lower, and crowds thinner than during the peak tourist season.
How to get to Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur has an international airport that is only a 45 minute drive away from the city center. We flew from Frankfurt am Main to Kuala Lumpur via China Airlines which was a bliss. Normally, we skip the „Premium Economy Class“, because it does not seem so much different than the normal Economy Class, but oh boy were we wrong.
Not only does the Premium Economy Class of China Airlines offer you much more legroom to relax. They also have seats that decline without narrowing down the space of the other passengers on the plane. Thereby, the seats decline so much that you can almost lie down. Additionally, China Airlines has a wide variety of entertainment on the flight itself: from literally new movies up to games.
However, the best thing for us was the food! Our first flight was during the day where we made use of the entertainment offered on board. Not only does China Airlines serves you three hot meals during their flight from Frankfurt to Kuala Lumpur , but they also offer you snacks whenever they see that you’re awake. You can also order a variety of beverages during your flight: from tea to Coke Zero. I honestly felt more relaxed after my flight from Frankfurt to Kuala Lumpur than on a much shorter flight within Europe itself.
How to get around in Kuala Lumpur
As any bigger city, Kuala Lumpur has a great transportation system. Within our time in Kuala Lumpur, we mostly used Grab , which is like a Malaysian version of Uber . Here you can simply choose a pick up and drop off point and then see how much it will cost you.
Where to stay during your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur
During your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur, you don’t want to use your precious time on walking back and forth which is why we’d recommend a hotel that’s located directly within the city centre. Since we visited Kuala Lumpur two times (two days before going to Borneo and then before flying back home), we stayed in two different hotels: The Melia Kuala Lumpur and the Berjaya Times Square which are both next to Bukit Bintang, also called „the Golden Triangle“. It’s one of the busiest places in Kuala Lumpur and famous for its night markets and night life in general.
Your perfect 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary – Overview
DAY 1 / Thean Hou Temple, Little India, Federal Territory Mosque, Central Market, Petaling Street, Petronas Towers. DAY 2 / Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, KL Tower, Jalan Alor
Kuala Lumpur in 2 days: How to see the best of the city
There’s something for everyone when visiting Kuala Lumpur: from tranquil temples to bustling night markets. Kuala Lumpur, or KL as the locals like to call it, offers endless things to do. Since I’ve included the city’s highlights within this itinerary, feel free to mix it up to your own needs.
Day 1 in Kuala Lumpur: Culture & Malay Food
Your first day in Kuala Lumpur is all about culture, getting lost in the colourful streets, tasting typical Malay food and finishing the day at the Petronas Towers.
Thean Hou Temple
Built in 1987, the Thean Hou Temple is a gorgeous six-tiered Buddhist temple dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu . It’s a must-see when visiting Kuala Lumpur as it’s not only full of culture and history, but also one of the most Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur .
Wander around and marvel at the beautiful architecture strewn with hundreds of dangling red lanterns, pay the Chinese Medical Herbs Garden a visit, try your luck at the Wishing Well and see the cute Tortoise Pond.
Little India
Little India, or Brickfields, is one of the most colourful and vibrant neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur. Filled with history, culture, amazing food, and cute little shophouses selling all kinds of goods.
Federal Territory Mosque
Afterwards, go to the famous Federal Territory Mosque where you’ll be able to join a free guided tour through the mosque and learn about its history. Don’t miss this amazing photo spot at the end of the tour! They will let you take as many videos and photos as you’d like to.
Central Market
The Kuala Lumpur Central Market was first built in 1888 as a simple wet market. Over the years, the market has transformed in many ways. Today, the Central Market is a Heritage Site and one of the most popular places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.
Don’t miss the second floor when visiting this place. Whilst the first floor is full of all kinds of artisan goods, batik artworks, handcrafts, souvenirs and cute boutique stores, the second floor is where you’ll find restaurants and a food court.
Right next to the Central Market is Chinatown. Nestled right in the heart of this vibrant neighbourhood, you will find one of Kuala Lumpur’s most bustling markets on Petaling Street. Petaling Street is full of stores and stalls selling all kinds of stuff and this market is always full of people no matter which time of day you go, so get ready to join the crowds!
When visiting Chinatown don’t miss out on – of course – the Chinese food. If you dare, you can also try Durian here. Durian is a famous fruit in many Asian countries, Malaysia included. It’s hard to describe what it tastes like, but we’d definitely advise you to go for the smallest piece you can find.
Petronas Towers
End your first day of your Kuala Lumpur itinerary by visiting the city’s most iconic landmark and the world’s tallest twin towers. The Petronas Towers are 451.9 meters tall and a truly architectural wonder. Surrounded by skyscrapers and the beautiful KLCC Park at its base, this is one attraction you cannot miss.
For a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent cityscape, you can visit the Observation Deck. Just a heads up, the tickets for the Petronas Towers sell out fast and they’re closed on Mondays. However, you can still go to the Kuala Lumpur Tower from which you can see the Petronas Towers then as well.
Tip : Go to the Petronas Towers in the evening as they have water shows on 8pm, 9pm and 10pm.
Day 2 in Kuala Lumpur: Batu Caves & Street Food
On the final day of your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary, you’ll visit one of Malaysia’s most iconic attractions , the Batu Caves. Afterwards, immerse yourself in nature as you wander along with treetop canopies in Kuala Lumpur’s very own rainforest. End the day at one of the city’s bustling night markets and vibrant nightlife scene!
Visit the Batu Caves right in the morning of your second day in Kuala Lumpur as they can be very crowded during the day. We actually went in the afternoon which is was okay since it was raining, but you’ll have a much better experience when visiting without all the people standing in front of you!
Besides exploring the temples at the base of the cave, snapping photos of the stairway, and marveling at the towering statue of Murugan, it’s worth tackling the 272 steps to the top. This is the only way you can get a glimpse of the cave’s ancient limestone interior.
Tip : Wear something that can get a little dirty if it rained beforehand or if it is still raining. After visiting, our shoes were full of little splashes.
Merdeka Square
After visiting the Batu Caves, it’s time to see another highlight: Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka Square. This is actually an independence square as Malaysia has been a British colony until 1957. Visit the popular Merdeka Square and roam around. You can also find cute cafés and great restaurants in this area.
Menara KL Tower
Towering 421 meters above the city, the KL Tower is the world’s seventh tallest telecommunications tower and another top attraction to add to your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary. It’s also one of the best options to get a great view of the city’s skyline as the Observation Deck and the Sky Deck offer 360 degrees views of the city. From here, you can also see the Petronas Towers!
End your day at the amazing Jalan Alor street food market. It’s been one of our favourite places when visiting and it’s hands down the perfect spot to grab seafood, hawker food, and authentic Malay cuisine.
The best time to visit is after sunset as the area comes alive at night when the street is jam-packed with hawker stalls.
Now that wraps up our 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary ! We really hope you like it and that it will help you make the best out of your stay. You want to read more about Malaysia? Then check out our other blog posts here . Or simply visit the Malaysian Tourism Board as they have a great collection of know-how and experiences.
Here are some other blog posts you might like:
- Exploring Paradise: The Top Things To Do in Sabah, Borneo
- Garda Trentino: A Gem at Lake Garda
- Your 7-Day Itinerary for Madeira
- Everything you need to know when hiking to Lago di Sorapis
- Top things to do in Bavaria in summer
and get lost with me.
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2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR ITINERARY | TRAVEL GUIDE
Planning a trip to Malaysia and wondering how to spend 2 days in Kuala Lumpur? Well, you’ve come to the right place.
I’ve put together this 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary with the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay. I also mention a few cheap street food and nightlife recommendations and so much more.
Kuala Lumpur (commonly shortened to KL) is the Malaysian capital and is the gateway to exploring this magnificent country. It’s a thriving metropolitan city filled with unbelievably delicious food, fantastic shopping, beautiful sights, stunning panoramic views, and friendly locals.
It’s one of my personal favorite cities in Asia. And I even lived here for a short period of time. Because the city is insanely vibrant, there are so many new and exciting things to do in Kuala Lumpur around every corner.
While only spending 2 days in Kuala Lumpur isn’t too long, you’d be surprised at how much you’ll be able to see.
From walking up the colorful steps of the Batu Caves, sipping cocktails on top of helipads, and swimming in rooftop infinity pools – it’s safe to say that Kuala Lumpur is guaranteed to be filled with experiences you’ll never forget.
So without further ado, keep reading to journey with me through this Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 2 days, and start planning your trip to this magnificent destination.
WHERE TO STAY FOR 2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR
First things first, you’ll want to book accommodation for your 2 days in KL. While there are obviously plenty of different accommodation options all over Kuala Lumpur, I recommend you stay at the condominium where I lived for a short while.
It’s called Regalia Condominium , and it’s truly amazing. I miss living there so much, and it’s the perfect place to stay for your Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 2 days.
In the past few years, it’s become quite popular in the Kuala Lumpur Airbnb community, and there are dozens of amazing apartments to choose from.
So you know you’ll be able to find availability in at least one of them. It really just depends on your budget and how many people you’re traveling with.
It’s conveniently located within a few minutes walk to two different metro lines, has an awesome mall next door, and the condominium is clean, modern, and comfortable. But the best reason to book a stay at Regalia is to swim in the rooftop infinity pool.
It offers an amazing view of the capital city, and enjoying a sunset swim while looking over at the iconic Petronas Towers will definitely be a highlight of your Kuala Lumpur 2-day itinerary.
Here are a few top-rated apartments for rent at the Regalia:
- Float in the Infinity Pool of a Gorgeous Apartment
- Spectacular Skyline views from a Chic, High Rise Apartment
- REGALIA SUITES ★ KUALA LUMPUR★ KLCC★ KL SENTRAL #1
I’ve recommended the Regalia Condominium to thousands of people in the past years from my travel blog, and I’ve gotten lots of messages from people thanking me.
So trust me – I know you’ll have a fantastic stay there.
HOW TO GET FROM THE KUALA LUMPUR AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTER
The Kuala Lumpur Airports (KLIA & KLIA2) are unfortunately located about an hour’s drive from the city center. So you’ll definitely want to keep that in mind when making your travel plans.
Fortunately, transport options are pretty easy to navigate and quite affordable. The three main options are bus, train, and taxi.
2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR TRAVELING VIA BUS
Taking a KL city bus is the most budget-friendly option costing only 11 MYR ($2.47 USD), and it takes about one hour or more depending on traffic. It drops you off at KL Sentral. The buses leave frequently and are comfortable.
So if you’re a budget traveler looking to save as much money as possible, just follow the signs at the airport for the bus departures (on the bottom floor), and book a ticket there.
Just be warned – you may get stuck in traffic which can be annoying after a long flight.
2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR TRAVELING VIA TRAIN
Personally, I find the train to be the best option. It doesn’t cost too much more than the bus, and it takes you to KL Sentral in only 30 minutes.
The train is easy to find at the airport (display signs are shown everywhere pointing you towards KLIA Express), and it’s just a much more pleasant experience.
You can also book KLIA tickets in advance , which will save you money (and have the tickets on your phone).
2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR TRAVELING VIA TAXI
If you don’t feel like dealing with public transportation and want to be taken directly to your hotel or Airbnb, then a taxi from KLIA Airport to the city center will cost around $35.
I personally don’t like the taxi drivers in KL though (as they’re notorious for ripping off tourists), so instead, I always recommend people to download GRAB , which is Malaysia’s main rideshare app.
It works great, has fair prices, and is easy to use. Plus, if you’re a new customer, you should get some FREE credit as a sign-up bonus.
HOW TO GET AROUND DURING YOUR 2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR
Kuala Lumpur is a pretty big city, and while there are loads of attractions within walking distance, you’re going to want to get comfortable using the metro.
Like most major cities in Southeast Asia, traffic is a huge concern. So unless you want to spend a good chunk of your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary in the backseat of a taxi or GRAB, you’ll want to use the metro to get around Kuala Lumpur.
Fortunately, the Kuala Lumpur metro system works really well, has stops near all the major tourist attractions, and is incredibly affordable. With that being said, Kuala Lumpur is amazing to see on foot as well.
A lot of the main hotspots on this 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary are within walking distance of each other. So you’ll definitely have some fun getting lost along its streets and popping into random local eateries for a quick bite to eat
As I previously mentioned, GRAB is Southeast Asia’s #1 ride-hailing app, and it is definitely worthwhile to have installed it on your phone during your 2 days in Malaysia.
This will come in handy for longer trips as well when you don’t want to transfer metro lines or are heading out for dinner or drinks somewhere in the Kuala Lumpur city center.
Save this map to your smartphone, and use it during your two days in Kuala Lumpur.
KUALA LUMPUR ITINERARY DAY 1: BATU CAVES, PETRONAS TOWERS, SHOPPING + MORE
Alright, now that we’ve gone over some of the basics of any Kuala Lumpur travel guide, let’s get into the best things to do during your trip.
Starting off your first day, wake-up bright and early and hop on the train out to the gorgeous Batu Caves. I put this as the first stop on my 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary because visiting Batu Caves is absolutely a must-visit for any first-time visitor to the city.
And you’ll want to get there early to avoid climbing the steep 272 steps during the intense Kuala Lumpur humidity.
The famous Batu Caves are one of Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic places to visit. It boasts beautiful limestone cliffs, frolicking monkeys, and three main caves filled with unique Hindu temples and statues.
(Just be warned, the monkeys at Batu Caves are quite infamous for being a bit more evil than the average monkey in Southeast Asia).
It offers a fantastic photo opportunity in front of the large statue of the Hindu God at the bottom of the stairs. Then it provides an even more beautiful view of the gorgeous KL skyline in the distance.
Since it’s such a popular tourist destination, I recommend you visit Batu Caves as early as possible to avoid massive swarms of crowds. That way, you can have a more enjoyable and peaceful experience at this important religious landmark.
The Batu Caves are open every day from 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM, and they’re easy to access as the last stop on the KTM Komuter line.
THE PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS & SURIA KLCC
Next up, it’s time to cross off the other main tourist attraction in KL, and certainly the most iconic – Petronas Twin Towers .
These are actually located inside the Suria KLCC shopping mall , which is definitely one of the best shopping destinations in the city.
Complete with elegant decor, hundreds of stores, and a fantastic food court – it’s a great place to wander around for an hour or two and enjoy some refreshing air-conditioning before heading up to the Petronas Twin Towers.
THE PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS SKYBRIDGE & OBSERVATION DECK
Standing at 1,483 feet tall, these are the world’s tallest twin towers and are certainly a landmark you need to see up close.
They’re absolutely magnificent, and no visit to Kuala Lumpur would be complete without heading up and taking a walk along the Skybridge and a visit to the observation deck.
- Visiting Days: Tuesdays to Sundays (Closed on Mondays)
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last Admission 8:30 PM)
- Ticket Prices: Adults 80 MYR ($17.94 USD), Children 33 MYR ($7.40 USD)
I think it’s best to do this during the day and then will recommend a better viewpoint (where you can see the Petronas Towers) during sunset.
At the base of the Petronas Towers, you’ll find KLCC Park, which is a beautiful 50-acre garden set in the middle of the city.
So after you’ve completed your journey to the top of the towers, spend some time strolling through KLCC Park along its well-paved roads and enjoy different viewpoints of the towers.
It’s an incredible urban sanctuary with over 1,900 trees and 74 different species of plants. There’s also a massive two-square-mile children’s playground, making it a must-visit for people visiting Kuala Lumpur with kids.
And the 141-foot high bridge offers a fantastic vantage point of the park with the Petronas Towers as a backdrop.
AQUARIA KLCC
While you’re in KLCC Park, why not hop inside the Aquaria KLCC , a state-of-the-art aquarium with over 5,000 species of underwater and land creatures?
It’s a pretty massive aquarium with lots of exciting areas to explore. But the main highlight is definitely walking through the 295-foot transparent underwater tunnel where hundreds of fishes, sharks, stingrays, and more marine life surround you.
With interactive adventures, signature feedings, friendly staff, and immersive exhibits – a visit to the Aquaria KLCC is a favorite among families and marine wildlife enthusiasts visiting Kuala Lumpur.
Book your Aquaria KLCC Tickets online to save 24% off and enjoy a couple of hours with rare Sand-Tiger Sharks, Green Sea Turtles, Red-Bellied Piranhas, and so much more.
SHOPPING & EXPLORING IN THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE/ BUKIT BINTANG
“The Golden Triangle” is a popular downtown district in Kuala Lumpur that features the city’s highlights, best hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and plenty of fantastic malls.
Even if you’re not in the mood for doing some shopping, it’s a wonderful area to explore on foot and soak up the metropolitan vibes.
I’ve spent a lot of time in the area, mall hopping and food court exploring. If you can, I’d recommend checking out these four malls though:
- Berjaya Times Square
- Low Yat Plaza
- Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
Take a read through this helpful overview of all the malls and highlights. Kuala Lumpur/ Golden Triangle
HELI LOUNGE BAR FOR SUNSET
So this is one of my personal favorite things to do in Kuala Lumpur because it really is an awesome experience to see how this helicopter pad transforms into a popular rooftop bar.
Whenever people would visit Kuala Lumpur to see me, I’d always take them here. The lounge offers fantastic 360-degree views of the modern city and delicious drinks. It is also one of the best places to watch the sunset on this 2-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary.
I’ve written all about my experiences at the Heli Lounge Bar Kuala Lumpur , so give that a read for more info. It’s located right in the Kuala Lumpur city center in Bukit Bintang and is a great place to start your nighttime explorations of the city.
Pro Tip: Head there about 20 minutes before sunset, and stay for 30-40 minutes after to experience the views both by day and night. Also, keep in mind that there is a casual dress code.
JALAN ALOR NIGHT MARKET
Finally, to conclude the first day of your Kuala Lumpur itinerary, make the short walk over to the Jalan Alor Street Food Market.
The word “Jalan” means “street”, so Jalan Alor is a long passage filled with delicious street food stalls serving up a wide variety of local food, as well as Indian, Chinese, and Thai food.
It’s got this indescribable ambiance that must be experienced to understand, and the street food is truly spectacular. I’ve eaten at four or five different restaurants along Jalan Alor, and every single one of them has been top-notch.
My expat friends took me here on my first night in Kuala Lumpur, and it was an experience I’ll never forget.
KUALA LUMPUR ITINERARY DAY 2: CHINATOWN, LITTLE INDIA, CULTURE + MORE!
For the second day of your Kuala Lumpur itinerary, I’ve focused a bit more on important cultural attractions and exciting religious landmarks.
So let’s get into it.
MERDEKA SQUARE
Start off by visiting Merdeka Square, which is the main “Independence Square”, where Malaysia declared its independence in 1957. Complete with a large open grass field and surrounded by beautiful buildings and architecture, this is the perfect place to begin your day.
Take in the sights of the wondrous Sultan Abdul Samad Building , wander through the Royal Selangor Club, visit St. Mary’s Church, and check out the National Textile Museum.
Also, be sure to snap a photo of the Malaysian flag flying on top of one of the tallest flagpoles in the world.
MASJID JAMEK
Opened in 1909, this airy mosque is the city’s oldest and welcomes visitors every day. With its iconic white domes and beautiful architecture, it’s a fantastic place to learn all about Islamic culture.
Make sure you’re dressed appropriately, though, if you plan on visiting Masjid Jamek Mosque, but you will be able to borrow robes and headscarves at the main entrance.
CHINATOWN & PETALING STREET
Next up, enjoy the quick eight-minute walk over to Chinatown to enjoy some street food, shopping, and culture. While there’s a whole lot to explore in Chinatown, the clear favorite among travelers is to take a stroll up and down Petaling Street.
The Petaling Street Market is a bustling shopping market that’s packed with personality. It’s similar to a lot of Southeast Asian markets I’ve come across during my days traveling through the region, but you can definitely find some great deals.
From kitschy souvenirs to affordable clothing and delicious food – Petaling Street in Chinatown is a Kuala Lumpur itinerary must-do.
SRI MAHA MARIAMMAN TEMPLE
Located on the outskirts of Chinatown, you’ll find the Sri Mahamariamman Temple , which is the oldest Hindu Temple in the city, dating back to 1873. It’s filled with colorful Hindu deities, intricate architecture, and spectacular photography opportunities.
The temple is an awesome place to stop in for a quick visit. Trust me, it’s worth the visit, and it will be great to learn and observe Hindu culture.
CENTRAL MARKET
For your last stop in Chinatown, just up the street from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, you’ll find the Central Market. It’s filled with locally made traditional Kuala Lumpur crafts and artisan handmade products and souvenirs.
The Central Market is a decently sized emporium, and fun to window shop and buy some smaller items.
Central Market also provides some pretty tasty culinary eateries, so this would be a great place to grab a bite to eat (a second lunch is always a good idea in Kuala Lumpur).
LITTLE INDIA
Located just a few minutes from KL Sentral is the next spot on your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary. You’ll probably want to hop in a cab or take bus number 821 for a few stops and find yourself in Little India.
While at first, it may seem a little less exciting after visiting Chinatown. It’s worth a visit to explore its shops filled with aromatic spices, colorful textiles, gorgeous flowers, jewelry, and plenty of low-key restaurants serving up amazing Indian curries.
Walk along the main street that’s packed with personality, and enjoy the sound of Bollywood tunes blaring from the speakers.
MENARA KL TOWER
So on the previous day of your Kuala Lumpur itinerary, you crossed off the Skybridge and Observation Deck at the Petronas Towers. Today you’ll head up to the top of the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower.
This was completed back in 1995 and stands tall at 1381 feet high. This makes the KL Tower the seventh tallest freestanding tower in the world. My advice would be to book yourself a KL Tower Admission Ticket online (to save some money).
Offering spectacular panoramic views of the city skyline, the Petronas Towers, and its notorious skyscrapers, you simply can’t leave Kuala Lumpur without heading up here.
You can book tickets to only the Observation Deck. But I’d recommend booking the combo, which includes Sky Deck and SkyBox (a complete glass box providing a really unique photo opportunity) as well.
So book your KL Tower Admission Tickets online so you don’t have to wait in line (perfect for heading up around sunset time).
ROOFTOP RESTAURANT & BAR HOPPING
Finally, to conclude this ultimate 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary, I think this city is one of the world’s finest for rooftop cocktails and fine dining.
There are so many to choose from in different parts of the city, but here are just a few bars I’d recommend checking out before you leave Kuala Lumpur.
You could try and hit them all in one night (which would actually be quite fun), but keep in mind you’ll have smart casual dress codes.
- Troika Sky Dining : “If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” – J.R.R. Tolkien
- Traders Hotel SkyBar : “If you haven’t been to SkyBar, then you haven’t really been to Kuala Lumpur.
- Marini’s on 57 : “Malaysia’s most iconic rooftop bar, Italian restaurant, and whiskey & cigar lounge”
- Vertigo & Horizon at Banyan Tree : “Relax on bar seating while enjoying the stunning views of Kuala Lumpur from above. Mixologists are on hand to create personalized drinks, while the South East Asian inspired tapas and DJ music helps create an unforgettable night out.”
Oh, and don’t forget to bring your camera. Your Instagram feed will thank you for sure ;-)
MORE FUN THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU VISIT KUALA LUMPUR
So this 2 Days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary is already quite jam-packed with solid activities and the majority of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Which will probably be difficult to fit it all in 48 hours.
But I love writing in-depth travel guides, so here are some more fun things to do that you can add to your Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 2 days.
KUALA LUMPUR BIRD PARK
A world full of spectacular birds and a tropical paradise not to be missed. If you’re traveling with kids or just want to visit this renowned eco-tourism destination, the KL Bird Park certainly will not disappoint.
Located just 10 minutes outside KLCC, the KL Bird Park has more than 3,000 local and foreign birds of approximately 200 different species.
What makes this place so special and different from other bird parks is the concept of free flight. Which is when the birds are let free in the aviary, which closely resembles their natural habitat.
There are lots of areas to explore in a beautiful setting, and it is simply a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours if sightseeing isn’t your thing.
The KL Bird Park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but definitely check out the Lory feeding between 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
KL FOREST ECO PARK
If you have some time to spare on your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary, spend it at KL Forest Eco Park. This lush nine-hectare park sits right in the city center, just a skip away from shopping malls and the KL Tower.
KL Forest Eco Park is home to over 200 plant species and wildlife. This is a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle that is Kuala Lumpur.
REGGAE MANSION ROOFTOP PARTIES
Are you a solo traveler or backpacker looking for a good time and an awesome place to meet people? Well, then, look no further than the Reggae Mansion Rooftop bar.
I actually spent my 26th birthday there and met tons of awesome people to hang out with. It’s got this amazing backpacker atmosphere, beautiful views of the city, pool tables, drink specials, and lots more.
It’s by far my favorite hostel in the city and an awesome place to hang out and meet some fellow travelers.
SUNWAY LAGOON WATER THEME PARK
So when I lived in Kuala Lumpur, this was one of my biggest regrets for not checking this place for myself.
Now, I wouldn’t really recommend coming out here if you only have 2 days in Kuala Lumpur, but it’s regularly listed as one of the best things to do in KL.
Located about a 45-minute drive from the city center, the Sunway Lagoon Water Theme Park would be the perfect destination for families or anyone just looking to escape the Malaysian heat and humidity.
By purchasing a ticket, you’ll have access to six exhilarating experiences, including the world’s largest and highest water ride and the colorful Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon.
READ REVIEWS & BOOK TICKETS
REGALIA CONDOMINIUM INFINITY POOL SWIMMING
Finally, I know I already previously explained this, but I wanted to reiterate how much I love swimming in this pool.
It’s one of the most iconic rooftop pools in Kuala Lumpur, and I know everyone will love it. Security is tight there though, and it’s strictly for guests only, so I’d definitely recommend spending at least one night at the Regalia Condominium .
You will thank me later ;-)
2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR TRAVEL GUIDE & TIPS
- Try the iconic Malaysian dish Nasi Kandar, meaning ‘mixed rice’, which is a favorite among locals and travelers
- Buy a Local SIM card at the airport so you can stay connected while traveling to use Google Maps, Social Media, and call restaurants or attractions for reservations
- Don’t ride in taxis. They are notorious for ripping off tourists. Use GRAB instead.
- Eat as much as possible. The street food in Kuala Lumpur is definitely a highlight of visiting this city
- Always make sure you have travel insurance. This will come in handy when something unforeseeable happens, like you fall sick, or your bags go missing or are stolen
AM I MISSING ANYTHING FROM THIS 2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR ITINERARY?
Having spent so much time exploring this city myself, I think I’ve put together a pretty amazing Kuala Lumpur itinerary in 2 days, especially for first-time visitors.
But if you visit Kuala Lumpur and discover some hidden gems you think should be included on this list, please do let me know. I’m always planning return visits to Kuala Lumpur and Southeast Asia and would love to add some new items to my Kuala Lumpur itinerary.
PLANNING A TRIP TO MALAYSIA & SOUTHEAST ASIA?
I’ve traveled quite extensively around this undeniably gorgeous country and region of the world. So my travel blog is filled with helpful articles, destination guides, and detailed itineraries.
I’d love for you to take a look at a few of them below as they’ll help you answer these questions, “is Kuala Lumpur worth visiting?” and “when visiting Kuala Lumpur, how many days are enough?”.
- The 7 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia in 3 Days | Epic Islands & Weekend Getaways
- The 20 Best Beaches in Malaysia
- The Ultimate Two-Week Malaysia Itinerary
- Malaysia Travel Guide | Trip Itinerary, Highlights + more
- The 25 Best Music Festivals in Asia To Experience Before You Die
- Ultimate Singapore to Bangkok Travel Overland Backpacking Itinerary
- 2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary How to Spend 48 Hours in Bangkok
- 3 Days in Singapore | The Ultimate 3-Day Singapore Itinerary & Travel Guide
- Three Weeks in Thailand Itinerary
- The 15 Best Music Festivals in Thailand To Experience Before You Die
- Magic Mushrooms in Thailand | To Mellow Mountain & Beyond
- The 20 Best Singapore Rooftop Pool Hotels
- Top 20 Airbnb’s in Singapore | Unique Stays, Lofts, and Apartments
- One Month in the Philippines Travel Itinerary
- The Ultimate Bali Itinerary | How to Plan the Perfect Bali Vacation
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How to spend 2 days in Penang (Malaysia) – What to Visit (map included)
- August 12, 2023
Home > Malaysia > How to spend 2 days in Penang (Malaysia) – What to Visit (map included)
Table of contents
Penang is an island in Malaysia and one of the most visited cities in West Malaysia, after Kuala Lumpur or Malacca , for example.
Despite being an island (connected to the mainland of Malaysia by more than one bridge!), there is plenty to visit in Penang. From some of the best street art in Malaysia to the best local food markets in Malaysia.
There are plenty of things to do in Penang and this 2-day itinerary in Penang is proof of that. Throughout this post, besides tips on the best places to visit in Penang, you will also find other tips about Penang, such as:
- Accommodations in Penang and the best areas to stay in Penang
- Best time to visit Penang
- How many days you need in Penang
- How to get to Penang
So, keep reading to prepare for your trip to Penang and know what to do in Penang in 2 days! I promise that Penang will surprise you! 😉.
How many days do you need to visit Penang?
Given the dimension of Penang island and all the things to do in Penang, I would suggest at least 2 full days in Penang.
Some of Penang’s interesting places are out of the centre and far from each other, which requires some extra time in getting around. Therefore, it is important to make sure that your Penang itinerary takes this into account.
However, if you have some extra time, I suggest extending your Penang itinerary to 3 days. This way, you will have the opportunity to include other attractions in Penang in your itinerary, such as Penang National Park, for example.
What’s the best time of year to visit Penang?
As with most cities in the Western part of mainland Malaysia, Penang’s weather tends to be humid and hot.
However, you should be aware of Penang’s rainy season, which occurs especially during the months of September to November. While it is still possible to visit Penang at this time of year, I would suggest avoiding these months.
On the other hand, the months with the least rainfall are January to March and June and July, making these the best months to visit Penang.
Finally, I would like to warn you that although none of these months is the rainiest, it is always important to be prepared for rain, given the tropical climate in Penang. For example, I took this waterproof jacket from Decathlon and it was quite useful. I visited Penang in early June and experienced some rain (just a few showers here and there).
What documents do you need to visit Penang?
As a citizen with a Portuguese passport, I am entitled to a free visa valid for 90 days to enter Malaysia. My passport just had to be valid for, at least, 6 months. I also filled out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card but no one asked me for it.
When arriving in Malaysia, the process is quite simple and you might be asked a few questions about your origin, where you’re going next, how long you plan to stay, where you’ll be staying and a few extra questions in some cases.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: I strongly suggest you check out the latest information here, as well as the rules that apply to different passport holders.
How to get to Penang?
Penang is well-connected to the main cities in Malaysia and also to other locations in South East Asia. In addition, it is possible to reach Penang both by land and by plane, as there is an airport in Penang.
Getting to Penang by plane
In addition to Penang’s air connections with some of the major cities in Malaysia (e.g. Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Langkawi), Penang airport also has direct flights to some neighbouring countries:
This is a great option in many cases because of the faster time to get to Penang and also the fact that you can easily find very cheap fares on low-cost airlines such as AirAsia.
How to get to Penang by bus/car
It is also possible to get to Penang by land (this is exactly what I did). For example, a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang costs around 6€ and the journey takes around 5 hours.
However, Penang has several direct connections to some of the major cities in Malaysia. I suggest you buy your ticket directly on the 12goAsia website, where you can check the various buses available.
💡 EXTRA TIP: It is normal for many long-distance buses to stop only at Butterworth, which is not on Penang Island. To get to George Town (the main part of Penang Island), there is a ferry that connects Butterworth to George Town (the journey takes about 20 minutes). If you don’t want to go through this “extra work”, I suggest you look for buses that stop in George Town.
What currency is used in Malaysia and how to pay?
The official currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). As of August 2023, 1 MYR = 0,20€. Even though there are many places that accept cards, you should also try to carry some cash with you since some are “cash only”. This is especially true if you intend to eat out in local markets.
To make purchases with a currency other than the one I usually use (Euro), I always use the Revolut card, which has many advantages. One of the biggest advantages of the Revolut card while travelling is the fact it does not charge additional fees for using a different currency.
If you do not yet know the advantages of having a Revolut Card, you can find out more here .
Where to withdraw money without paying fees?
Some of the banks in Malaysia charge a fee for withdrawing money with foreign cards (even if you’re using a Revolut card!). However, I found some that actually didn’t charge me to withdraw money with my Revolut card. These were the banks where I got to withdraw money without paying fees:
How to have internet?
It’s quite handy to always have internet while travelling in Malaysia . It’s useful when you need to call a Grab or use Google Maps in walking mode, for example.
I decided to buy an e-SIM from Celcom (which I could then do top-ups) at a 7-Eleven store, but you can opt for a more hassle-free option. For example, this e-SIM Roaming Mobile Data Plan can be purchased even before you arrive in Malaysia and the options are quite cheap.
You can choose the option that suits you best, having in mind the duration of your trip and where you plan to go, since most of the plans include a mobile data plan that also works in other countries.
What is the best way to get around Penang?
For Penang’s points of interest that are located in George Town, the best way to visit them is definitely on foot, as the distances to cover are relatively short.
However, if you want to visit other Penang’s iconic places that are further away (for example, Kek Lok Si Temple), the most convenient way to get around is Grab. Grab is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber and is often quite cheap, which pays off in the end.
Alternatively, you can also choose to use buses in Penang, which is a much cheaper option. If you choose this option, I suggest you always have some money to buy the ticket and some patience, as the schedules are not always respected 😆.
Finally, if you want to be even cooler, there’s nothing better than a tuk tuk ride (although they’re not as fun as the ones in Malacca !) to get around the city.
Accommodation in Penang
When choosing accommodation in Penang, you need to consider the best area to stay in Penang . Since most of the places to visit in Penang are located in George Town (or relatively close!), this is exactly where I recommend staying in Penang.
For example, I met a couple on the trip who complained about being in the West part of the island, where the roads were much worse and it took them ages to get out of that part of Penang.
Now that you know where to stay in Penang, let’s go to the accommodation itself. There are several options, but I recommend the hotel I stayed at – Courtyard by Mariott Penang .
This hotel is one of the best 4-star hotels in Penang. The rooms are extremely spacious and the staff service is exceptional.
In addition, the hotel has a wide breakfast offer at Penang Kitchen , where there is also à la carte lunch service. And, for those who are more around the hotel during the day, Courtyard by Mariott Penang also has an afternoon snack service, which is just DELICIOUS 🤤!
For dinner, the hotel has the concept Gin Library , where they serve more elegant dishes and an extensive menu of cocktails, especially gin-based. And the best part of this restaurant? The views over Penang… especially beautiful at sunset.
And to finish off, there’s the swimming pool on the top floor of the hotel to help us cool off on the hottest days in Penang. Towels for use in the pool are provided by the hotel and there are also some sun loungers and some sofas to help us relax after a day well spent in George Town.
Anyway, there are many more suggestions for accommodation in Penang . I’ll share with you some of my favourites:
💼 TRAVEL INSURANCE: If you want to have a stress-free trip, then you should definitely look into purchasing some travel insurance. Pretty much anything can happen while you’re travelling, so it’s best to be safer than sorry. Most of the time, I use IATI Insurances , which has one of the best price-quality ratios in the market, a 100% online service and it is very easy to use. Book here your travel insurance and enjoy a 5% discount for being readers of the blog. For digital nomad travellers or longer trips, SafetyWing is another excellent option, with prices that are also highly competitive (insurance from 45 USD for 4 weeks).
2 days in Penang Itinerary – Map
Before I start telling you about my itinerary for Penang, I’ll share a map with the places to visit in Penang .
Activities & tours in Penang
2 days in penang itinerary – day 1.
The first day of this Penang itinerary will be mostly focused on exploring the historical part of George Town! Most of the places worth visiting in George Town are close to each other, so you can easily walk this route.
There are a few exceptions, however, where the easiest way to get around is by Grab. In fact, this is exactly what I did! Whenever the walking distance was too far, I used a Grab as the journeys were quite cheap.
» Khoo Kongsi Temple
We start our Penang itinerary at what is probably one of the most beautiful Chinese temples in Penang. It may not be that big, but the details are incredible.
» Clan Jetties
The Clan Jetties are one of the must-visit places in Penang. It is a floating village where Chinese clans live. These clans were created to integrate the Chinese who came to live in Malaysia in the 19th century.
There are still a few clans and each has its own Chinese temple. Nowadays, we find several souvenir shops as we walk through the tight streets of the Clan Jetties. So, if you would like to visit this place and find few tourists, go early.
Street art is a constant in George Town and even in the Clan Jetties you’ll already find some very cute pieces!
» Street art
If you’re a regular reader of the blog, you know how much I love street art! This is always one of my favourite parts of cities that have this kind of art 😍. And, of course, Penang couldn’t be an exception.
Although the street art pieces in Penang are scattered all over George Town, there is one particular area where we can find more murals and also the most well-known ones.
The strong presence of street art in George Town began in 2012 at the initiative of the Penang municipality. Many of the pieces aim to tell a bit of George Town’s rich history. And these have become so well known over the years that there is now a queue at some of them to take photos.
Here are the exact locations of some of my favourite murals in George Town:
- Children on Bicycle
- Brother & Sister on the Swing
- I Want Bao!
- Boy on a Bike
» Little India
Like other cities in Malaysia, there is also a Little India in Penang! Take the opportunity to get lost in the colourful streets or in one of the many restaurants selling Indian food.
» Kuan Yin Teng Temple
Another unmissable place in Penang is the Kuan Yin Teng Chinese temple. It is the oldest temple of its kind in Penang, and it was built in the early 18th century.
You can go inside the temple for free and admire the rituals of the locals who pass through.
» Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
It’s time to go to one of the most beautiful houses in Penang! Also known as the Blue Mansion, this mansion is a historic house in Penang. It was built by the merchant who currently gives it its name (Cheong Fatt Tze) in the 19th century.
It is currently a boutique hotel, but it is still possible to visit some areas of the building. There are 2 guided tours per day and both tours have a capacity of up to 35 people. However, it is also possible to visit the mansion with only an audio guide. I recommend buying tickets online in advance, as they sometimes sell out.
» Town Hall and Clock Tower
Relatively close to the Blue Mansion, you can find the Town Hall and the Clock Tower. This part of the city made me feel like I wasn’t in Penang anymore, not even in Malaysia. It’s interesting, but it was clearly one of my least favourite parts of Penang.
The buildings have very distinctive architecture, many of them dating back to the time when this area was a colony of the United Kingdom. For example, the Clock Tower was built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
» Komtar Tower
We continue to do one of the most fun activities in Penang – the Komtar Tower. Komtar Tower is probably the best viewpoint in Penang and clearly one of my favourite places in Penang 🥰!
Komtar Tower has loads of indoor activities (many of them for children), but I’d like to mention two in particular – the Rainbow Skywalk and the Observatory Deck : two platforms with views over the city of Penang.
Both have a part with a glass floor, which is one of the funniest parts of this visit to the Komtar Tower. The vertiginous feeling is amazing! The big difference between the skywalk and the observatory deck is that the former is in an enclosed space while the latter is on a small open-air platform.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The ticket to visit both platforms costs 61 MYR (~12.2€) and is well worth it. You can check the most up-to-date price list as well as opening hours here .
And for those who want an even more memorable experience, you can choose to have a meal at the restaurant on the top floor of the tower, where the Skywalk is also located.
» Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple
My suggestion to continue this 2-day itinerary in Penang is the temple with the most difficult name to pronounce 😉! The Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple is actually a complex of several Hindu temples and you have to climb more than 500 steps to get there.
As in Kuala Lumpur , there are also many small monkeys here. They are harmless, but keep an eye on your belongings, as monkeys can easily “rob” your backpack.
» Chulia Street
After an intense day of sightseeing, surely all you can think about is getting some rest. So, I suggest ending your first day in Penang at one of the most popular places to try local food in Penang. This is also the place to be in Penang at night.
Chulia Street is one of the liveliest streets in Penang, with several stalls selling local food. The best way to enjoy food markets like this one is to take a stroll and pick the stall(s) that appeal to you the most 😋.
This is a great way to try local food and at very affordable prices. However, if you’d like to get to know the local gastronomy better, there’s nothing better than a food tour with someone who knows about it. That’s why I’m sharing with you some of the best food tours in Penang:
2 days in Penang Itinerary – Day 2
The second day of this Penang itinerary will have considerably fewer sights to visit. Firstly, they are all a bit far away from each other. And, on the other hand, you’ll spend longer at each one of these attractions.
» Kek Lok Si Temple
The Kek Lok Si temple was the one that surprised me the most during my whole trip to Malaysia! And believe me, I saw a lot of Buddhist temples😁. So this is really one of those places that should be on your what to do in Penang list.
The temple is so big (this is actually the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia) that I recommend a whole morning to visit it. Between travelling from the centre of George Town and the actual visit to the temple, you should ideally allow about 3 hours to visit Kek Lok Si temple.
💡 EXTRA TIP: The journey between the centre of George Town and Kek Lok Si Temple takes about 15 minutes (7 to 10 km). The easiest way to get there is by Grab, as the journey is quite cheap.
While most parts of the temple are free to visit, there are some exceptions. For example, the entire initial part of the temple is free to visit. You can, of course, buy incense at the temples or make small contributions, but these are entirely voluntary. There are also some small shops scattered around the complex where you can buy some souvenirs.
In the whole complex, there are only two paid areas, one of them being the funicular ride up to the highest part of the temple, where the Kuan Yin statue is located. However, the prices are so low that I see no reason not to visit these two parts (one costs 2 MYR, 0.4€ and the other 6 MYR, 1.2€).
The entrances to some of these paid areas are a bit difficult to find, although there are some signs in the temple complex.
And, as if the beauty of this temple wasn’t enough, you’ll also find there one of the best views over Penang. It will be hard not to be jaw-dropped.
» Penang Hill
Relatively close to the Kek Lok Si temple, you can also visit Penang Hill. As the name implies, Penang Hill is composed of a set of hills, being one of the highest areas in Penang.
The simplest way to get to the top of Penang Hill is by using its funicular railway, and this is one of the longest funicular journeys in Asia. However, the journey only takes about 5 minutes.
The funicular runs from 6.30 am to 10 pm (the ticket office closes at 8 pm). Return tickets for non-Malaysians cost 30 MYR, ~6€ (‘normal lane’) or 80 MYR, ~16€ (‘fast lane’). There are also one-way tickets, which are much cheaper. You can check the most up-to-date information here .
The difference between the ‘normal lane’ and ‘fast lane’ has to do with the queue where you have to wait to get on the funicular. I realize the price difference is ridiculous, but it may well be worth it to go for the fast lane. For example, on the day I visited, the queue to return from the top was so long (more than 3 hours of waiting) that I ended up having to return by jeep + Grab ☹️.
💡 EXTRA TIP: It is not possible to reach the top of Penang Hill by car (including Grab and taxis). So, apart from organized tours, the best way to get to Penang Hill is actually by funicular. It is also possible to hike a trail to get there, but some people complained that it was quite difficult.
Once at the top of Penang Hill, there are endless options to occupy your time. It’s possible to spend a whole day exploring Penang Hill and even then, you won’t have time to visit everything. I suggest you check out the main attractions of Penang Hill here .
However, for a first visit to Penang Hill, I suggest you choose only one or two of the attractions. For example, I chose to visit Habitat as it is one of the places I found most interesting in Penang Hill.
Habitat is a short trail (1.6 km one way) in the middle of nature that quickly makes you forget about the busy life in the centre of Penang. At the end of the trail, there is a free shuttle bus that takes you back to the start.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Entry to Habitat costs 60 MYR (~12€) and opening hours are from 9 am to 7 pm (last entry at 5 pm). All the most up-to-date information here .
Both the ticket for the funicular and the Habitat can be bought directly on site.
» Tanjung Bungah Mosque
Next in this 2-day itinerary, I suggest you stop at the Tanjung Bungah mosque. This mosque is known as the Floating Mosque. The mosque is built over the sea and when there is a high tide, it looks like the mosque is floating.
» Batu Ferringhi Beach
And to end the day perfectly, I recommend watching the sunset at Batu Ferringhi Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Penang. You can do water sports activities at this beach, for example. It is also served by some cafés and restaurants.
Nearby, you can also enjoy the Batu Ferringhi night market . Honestly, I didn’t think there was much interesting to see. However, I ended up having dinner at a small food market (Kafe Ferringhi Station) and I highly recommend it.
More things to do in Penang
In case you are the lucky one who can spend more than 2 days in Penang, I’ll provide you with some additional suggestions of where to go in Penang.
Firstly, I’ll tell you about Penang National Park – a great idea for a day away from George Town. This park has a few trails and some of the best beaches in Penang, such as Monkey Beach. It may be one of the smallest national parks ever, but it’s packed with surprises.
Secondly, if you like museums, you can also take advantage of some of the museums in Penang:
- 3D Trick Art Museum
- Wonderfood Museum
- Peranakan Mansion
- Upside Down Museum
- Ghost Museum
Disclaimer : this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
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I am Mariana from Porto, Portugal . I am truly passionate about traveling and all things travel related. And that’s exactly what led me to create this page: so I can inspire others to travel and help plan all those trips with my tips and itineraries.
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2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR | Itinerary & Tips
Spending 2 days in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia wasn’t something that we had thought much about before visiting. It felt like the obligatory stopover in another capital city, before heading out and exploring the rest of the country. After spending a few days here our opinion couldn’t be more different. Read through our Kuala Lumpur 2-day itinerary to find out exactly why we fell in love with this city.
Having just come from Vietnam, Malaysia wasn’t really what we expected. Kuala Lumpur is a very clean and modern city and its charm really took us by surprise. It is a cultural melting pot with people from all over Asia, and even further afield living here. This wide variation of culture also means Malaysia has a diverse and mouth-wateringly delicious range of cuisines.
With plenty of great places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days, friendly people and amazing food, we think it’s safe to say you will enjoy this city much more than you may have expected.
Check out our Southeast Asia Packing List for a guide on what to pack for your Malaysian adventure!
Disclaimer – This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a small commission if you make a purchase at NO extra cost to you. This will never impact our reviews and we only recommend products and services we firmly believe in.
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Things to Know Before You Go
- English is widely spoken here and it was easy to stop and ask for directions.
- The plug sockets here are the same 3 pronged sockets that you would find in the UK.
- Bank machines are widely available and there are plenty of ATMs at Kuala Lumpur airport so you can get cash as soon as you arrive.
- Accommodation is quite simple here and more expensive than many other countries in Southeast Asia. Private rooms get taxed an extra 10 RM ($2 USD) fee per night.
- SIM cards are available at the airport and and the coverage across the country is good. We paid 36 RM ($8 USD) for a Hotlink SIM card with 8GB of data for 15 days.
- It is not safe to drink the tap water here.
- Public transport across the whole country is very good and especially so in Kuala Lumpur.
- Read more tips on visiting Malaysia here .
Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur
Budget: Hotel 1000 Miles – This hotel is budget, but without sacrificing cleanliness and hospitality. Perfect for fellow backpackers.
Mid-Range: BIG M Hotel – This hotel is known for being reasonably priced, being incredibly accommodating and its great location. If you love the local food (and you should in Malaysia) there are tons of options in nearby Little India and Chinatown.
Luxury: Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel – KL is riddled with luxury level hotels, but you cannot go wrong with the Sheraton. With an outdoor pool and over 5 dining options within the hotel, this is the epitome of luxury.
Getting Around the City
The easiest way to get around the city is by using Grab , which works the same way as Uber. There are usually lots of cars available, and it is relatively cheap to travel around the city via Grab taxis.
Public transport here is also great, especially the train lines. If the places you are visiting are near a train line this is the cheapest way to get around. Finally, expect to get plenty of steps in, as you will be walking a lot during your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur. Many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other and it’s a fantastic way to see different parts of the city.
Best Time to Visit Kuala Lumpur
As Kuala Lumpur is located near the equator, the temperature varies little throughout the year. It is generally quite hot and humid here. There are two monsoon seasons here which run between October and February on the east coast and (May to September on the west coast) March to April. If possible, it is best to avoid these times as there is a much higher chance of rain putting a damper on your trip.
2 Days in Kuala Lumpur – Itinerary
While you could easily spend more time exploring the city, you can visit a whole lot of cool places in just a couple of days. Many travellers layover here for a short period of time or just want to spend a couple of days here before exploring the rest of the country.
By following our Kuala Lumpur 2-day sample itinerary, you will see all the best spots in the city. It’s an action-packed 2 days, and we definitely squeezed as many things as we could into the little time we had here. Alternatively, spend a couple of extra days checking out additional sights, and some of the best hiking trails around Kuala Lumpur such as the Bukit Tabur hiking trail , or just take your time, visiting fewer attractions each day.
Masjid Jamek
Kuala lumpur forest eco park and treetop walkway, petronas twin towers.
- Graffiti Alley
Wilayah Mosque
Thean hou temple, perdana botanical gardens, little india.
Don’t be discouraged by the long list of sights on today’s agenda. Many of the spots are close together in the downtown core.
That being said, the first stop, Batu Caves, is further afield to the north, and we recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Return to explore the sights around KL’s downtown centre and hit up some shops in the afternoon.
Day 1 starts out with one of the highlights of the city and one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days. While the caves at the top of the stairs used to be the main attraction here, it is now the rainbow-coloured stairs that lead to the cave that are the real gem of this place.
Batu Caves is a 20 – 30 minute drive from Kuala Lumpur Sentral depending on the traffic and it costs around 20 – 25 RM ($5 – $6 USD) to take a Grab here. The main gates are open from 5:45am – 9pm although the gates to the stairs are only open from 7am – 8:30pm. There is also no entrance fee for visiting which is a bonus.
There is also a half day tour that you can join that will take you to Batu Caves as well as to some rural Malay villages, the Royal Selangor Pewter, Batik Factory and more. Check out rates and availability for this tour here .
At the base of the stairs is a giant golden Lord Murugan statue which represents Kartikeya. It is the tallest Hindu statue in Malaysia. The stairs themselves were painted several years ago to attract more tourists to the area. This was met with differing opinions, but we think it was a great choice. The stairs are beautiful and were the main reason that we wanted to visit Batu Caves. The vibrant colours change as you climb further up the stairs and they make for spectacular photos.
The main cave at the top of the steps is huge and is a very impressive sight. There are several temples inside the cave as well as at the entrance to the stairs, and there are hundreds of bats flying around the roof of the cave. There is also a dark cave around 2/3 of the way up the stairs, although when we visited it was closed to help conservation.
One thing to note about Batu Caves is that there is a problem with monkeys. We heard many stories of monkeys stealing any loose possessions that you may have on you such as sunglasses. To avoid being terrorised by monkeys, we advise visiting at sunrise. This also means you will be able to avoid the crowds in the afternoon and it makes the climb up the stairs easier without the afternoon sun.
To enter the temples, it is required for you to remove your shoes and have your knees and elbows covered up. However, there is no dress code for climbing the stairs and visiting the caves.
The Masjid Jamek is a Mosque located in the centre of the city, next to the Klang River. It is a beautiful building and worth taking some time to wander around. It is closed on Fridays, which is the day that we visited, but you can still get some great views of the beautiful architecture from the footpath across the river.
Spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city in the Kuala Lumpur Forest Eco Park. This large park is found in the heart of the city and while the park itself is very pretty, the real attraction here is the treetop walkway.
Climb the spiral staircases to access the treetop walkway and wooden viewing platforms. The metal walkways are suspended between the trees at around 20 – 30 feet above the forest floor. Explore the leafy canopies of the eco park while catching glimpses of the modern skyline in the background.
This is such a cool place to visit, especially as it is right in the heart of the city, and just steps away from the KL Tower. What makes it even better is that there is no entrance fee for the park of the treetop walkway, which is ideal for those travelling on a budget. The park is open from 9am – 5pm each day.
One of the exits from the eco park will lead you right to the base of the KL Tower. The tower is technically found within the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests. Standing at 421 metres tall, it is the tallest telecommunication tower in Southeast Asia.
Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the city from the lower observation deck, which stands 276 metres above the ground. Entrance to the observation deck of the KL Tower costs 49 RM ($11 USD) for international visitors.
You can book a combo ticket for both the Petronas Towers and the KL Tower observation decks here.
The most recognizable tourist attraction in the city, and the one that dominates the skyline, is the Petronas Towers. These twin towers were the tallest buildings in the world for 6 years between 1998 and 2004. They still currently stand as the tallest twin towers in the world.
The observation deck in the Petronas Towers is on the 86 th floor and provides unparalleled views of the city. The towers also offer exhibits and digital displays covering the history of the tower.
One of the coolest things about these towers is the double decker skybridge that connects the two buildings. It serves as a way to connect the two buildings and is another excellent vantage point to take in the breathtaking views of the city.
Tickets to visit the observation deck of the Petronas Twin Towers cost 80 Rm ($18 USD) which is quite a lot for people travelling on a budget. The towers are also closed to visitors on Mondays.
For those who don’t want to spend the money visiting the observation deck, it is worth taking a walk through KLCC Park which stands at the base of the towers. This beautifully manicured park offers great views of the towers from ground level, and is a great free way to enjoy the towers.
Graffiti Street
A short walk from the Petronas Towers will take you to the graffiti alley near Bukit Bintang. This alley has been completely covered in colourful street art. This vibrant alley is easy to miss for those not looking for it, but is a really cool hidden gem in the city that we highly recommend visiting.
Finish off day 1 of your Kuala Lumpur 2-day itinerary by doing some shopping. There are several good spots to check out, including Suria KLCC shopping mall, Petaling Street in Chinatown and Central Market. There is something on offer for everyone from designer shops to markets selling cheap knock-offs of designer goods.
Our favourite place for shopping was Petaling Market, which can be found in Chinatown. The bustling street market has a great atmosphere and you can buy anything from electronics to clothes and jewellery. It’s a fun place to walk through and see all of the different stalls and vendors. If you do want to buy anything, be sure to barter to get the price down as well.
Day 2 on the itinerary isn’t quite as busy as yesterday, but still captures some amazing sights throughout the city. We found it was a good mixture of mosques and temples, paired with the botanical gardens to balance out the busy city. Cap the day off with amazing curries and food in Little India.
The Wilayah Mosque is probably the most beautiful mosque that we have ever visited. The building, walkways and courtyards are breathtaking and the building itself is brought to life with blue accents throughout.
We visited the mosque at sunrise to catch it in the golden morning light and to beat the crowds. It doesn’t officially open until 10am, although luckily the security guard was happy to let us explore the outside of the mosque which included the main courtyard.
Even when just visiting the outside areas you are required to remove your footwear and wear a robe, while women are also required to wear a scarf to cover their hair. These are actually provided free of charge by the mosque, and there is no entrance fee to visit here.
The mosque is officially open from 10 am – 6 pm daily, although it is closed between 12pm – 2:30 pm on Fridays. If you wish to do a free tour and appreciate the entire mosque, inside and out, you will need to visit during the official opening hours. It is a short 15-minute drive from KL Sentral.
Another beautiful building to visit during your 2 days in Kuala Lumpur is the Thean Hou Temple. This large Chinese temple has 6 levels and is a stunning display of architecture that, while totally different to Wilayah Mosque, is similarly beautiful.
The temple is open from 8am – 10pm each day and there is no entrance fee. We came relatively early in the morning, but it was still quite busy and a tour bus arrived around the same time as we did. As the temple is so large it never really felt too busy and with so many different levels and areas to explore it was easy to find our own space to enjoy.
The inner pagoda is decorated with lanterns, dragons and vibrant colours. It really is beautiful and exploring the different walkways and towers around the temple will allow you to see it from many different angles. It really is a beautiful place and one we would highly recommend visiting.
Another escape from frantic city life can be found in the Perdana Botanical Gardens. These gardens are huge and you could spend hours exploring the different areas on offer. The botanical gardens are made up of numerous different gardens, ponds and wide open spaces for you to enjoy.
While the majority of the Pardana Botanical Gardens are free, some of the gardens do have an entrance fee. We decided to stick to the free areas and the highlight for us was the giant yellow canopy which can be found at the Laman Perdana. This is the main square in the park where the three main entrance roads meet. There are often events and shows hosted in this area so it is worth finding out if there is anything cool happening here during your stay.
Little India is an absolute feast for the senses. It is a very lively area which is within walking distance of the botanical gardens. The swirl of different sights and smells here is incredible. For those like us who love Indian food, this is the place to come and get some amazing authentic food.
We had dinner at Sentral Chappati House, one of the top rated restaurants in the area and had a delicious dinner. The food was amazing and everything was quite cheap, which is perfect for those fellow backpackers travelling on a budget.
Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur
The food in Malaysia in general is amazing, with a heavy Indian influence. Along with Sri Lanka, it offered our favourite cuisine in Asia with fantastic curry available at cheap prices everywhere we went.
Restoran Yusof – If you get hungry after exploring the Central Market then head here for some delicious food. We enjoyed a large curry, naan bread and water which cost just 20 RM (less than $5 USD) and fed two people easily.
Sentral Chappati House – As mentioned above, make sure you visit Little India and eat here. More delicious curry and naan bread for just 20 RM for two people.
Jalan Alor Food Street – For a huge range of amazing street food head to Jalan Alor. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from all offering a huge variety of different cuisines. It is a must visit spot for any major foodies.
Final Thoughts
While 2 days in Kuala Lumpur may not seem like a lot, you can pack a whole lot of cool activities in to just 48 hours. While our Kuala Lumpur 2-day itinerary is an action-packed guide, it will allow you to get the absolute most out of your time in this underrated city.
We were really blown away by how good the city was, and the numerous cool places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days. I hope our blog can help change your opinion on Kuala Lumpur from just another obligatory layover stop to a destination truly worth exploring.
Did we miss anything? What is your favourite sight in KL?
Planning a trip to Malaysia? Check out our other blog posts on the area:
- 2 DAY MELAKA ITINERARY | Best Things to Do in Melaka
PERFECT 3 DAY CAMERON HIGHLANDS ITINERARY
- SOUTHEAST ASIA PACKING GUIDE | Best Backpacking Gear
*Please note, prices are a reflection of our experiences while traveling Malaysia in July 2019 and are subject to change. Prices quoted in RM were the exact prices we paid and USD conversions are listed for your convenience.
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Hi, we're Luke and Roxy, a travel couple from Ireland and Canada. We are all about finding awesome, off the beaten path adventures and love to find the cheapest way of doing things. Thanks for visiting our blog!
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Best Places To Visit In Malaysia In 3 Days – Twelve 3 Day Itineraries!
Malaysia is a country of huge variety which you could travel for months without being bored. However, if you just have 3 days in Malaysia, don’t despair! You can still have a great introduction with a 3 day itinerary in Malaysia.
From gorgeous beaches to the picturesque highlands to the dynamic capital to mysterious Borneo, there are some fabulous options for what to do in Malaysia for 3 days 2 nights.
Below, I have all the best places to visit in Malaysia in 3 days. You simply need to read through and work out which Malaysia itinerary 3 days best suits your interests. In this article you’ll find several itineraries for 3 days 2 night trip in Malaysia options, so if you’re looking for the perfect Malaysia 3 days 2 nights itinerary, you’re bound to find it here!
If you are short on time, I highly recommend you book private taxis to get you between cities so you are enjoying your 3-day destination faster and in more comfort. You can book an affordable private taxi here.
If you are looking for places to visit in Malaysia in 2 days or Malaysia itinerary 4 days, you can also use the list below. Simply remove your least preferred day of the itinerary Malaysia 3 days if you have less time or follow the suggestion for the fourth day if you have 4 days in Malaysia.
At the bottom, I also give what I recommend as the top options for a 2 days 1 night short trip in Malaysia where your time is quite limited.
Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!
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 find some of our other ideas for your Malaysia short getaway here .
12 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia In 3 Days
Note that when thinking about what to see in Malaysia for 3 days, I don’t recommend that you change cities. It’s a short time period so to maximise your time, stick to just one place in Malaysia and explore from there.
For the best 3d2n trip Malaysia has to offer, I suggest picking one of the destinations below and then following my 3 days 2 nights in Malaysia itinerary and suggestions for that place.
This list of places to see in Malaysia in 3 days below also takes into account that time is limited so sticks to the more easily accessible locations.
1. Kuala Lumpur
If you haven’t been to Malaysia before, it’s hard to look past the capital, Kuala Lumpur. KL is perhaps the perfect place for your 3 days 2 nights Malaysia trip, especially if you haven’t been before. Given you will most likely be arriving at Kuala Lumpur airport for your 3 days trip in Malaysia, this is a great place to spend your time, particularly if it’s your first time in Malaysia.
If you love cities, culture, variety and great food, Kuala Lumpur is a top choice, and it’s hard to beat KL for where to go in Malaysia for short trip options.
Kuala Lumpur 3 Day Itinerary
I have the perfect Malaysia tour itinerary 3 days centred on Kuala Lumpur in detail here.
You can follow this 3 days in Kuala Lumpur guide exactly. If you are looking for places to visit in Malaysia in 4 days, there is also a fourth day itinerary in that article so that you can enjoy a little more time with 4 days in Kuala Lumpur. Click the link above to find out all of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days.
You can find all our Kuala Lumpur guides here.
Or click here to download a free, detailed itinerary for Kuala Lumpur. You can copy it exactly!
Top place to stay: Berjaya Times Square Hotel – Click here for the latest prices
2. Port Dickson
If you want a quick and easy beach stop for your answer of where to go in Malaysia for 3 days, Port Dickson is a nice and easy choice. This is one of the best place to visit in Malaysia if you love beaches and want a beach break that’s located relatively close to KL and the airport.
Port Dickson (often referred to as PD for short) is a short taxi ride from the airport, this is also a good choice if you are flying into Kuala Lumpur airport and have been to Kuala Lumpur before.
We can book you a private taxi to Port Dickson from the airport, Kuala Lumpur or elsewhere here.
If you love the idea of staying in an over-water chalet, Port Dickson is also a fabulous choice. There are a few different options where you can do this in Port Dickson for a very affordable price. When you aren’t relaxing in your chalet, you can visit any of the many beaches on this coastline or some of the low key attractions in Port Dickson.
Port Dickson 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Check into your hotel and relax. Enjoy the surrounds and head to a beach. Our top pick is Blue Lagoon but you can find more choices here.
Day 2: Choose your preferred attractions from this list of things to do in Port Dickson and visit.
Day 3: Enjoy your hotel’s facilities or head to the beach
If you are looking for what to do in Malaysia for 4 days, spend your last day exploring Kuala Lumpur on a day trip.
Top place to stay: Lexis Hibiscus – Click here for the latest prices.
Find all our Port Dickson guides here.
3. Sunway Lagoon
If you want an easy and fun Malaysia stopover, particularly if you are travelling as a family, Sunway Lagoon is a great place to pick for your 3 days.
Located between KL Airport and Kuala Lumpur, this is a quick and easy place to get to and is like its own city with a huge theme park, big shopping centre with entertainment options and multiple hotels. We have very much enjoyed 3 day stopovers here as an alternative to Port Dickson or Kuala Lumpur.
Sunway Lagoon 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Check into the Sunway Resort. Enjoy the hotel facilities and the shopping centre. Find our full review of this 5 star hotel here.
Day 2: Visit Sunway Lagoon theme park.
Day 3: Either return to the theme park, enjoy your hotel facilities or do some activities at the shopping centre like ice skating and going to the cinema.
If you are looking for what to do in Malaysia in 4 days, spend your last day exploring Kuala Lumpur on a day trip. With a 2 days 1 night vacation in Malaysia, focus on visiting Sunway Lagoon.
Read our full review of Sunway Lagoon here.
To learn more about the history of Malaysia and for some fun and interesting attractions, consider Melaka as a great option for your Malaysia 3 days 2 nights tour package. Melaka is perfect for history and culture lovers and there’s plenty to do here. This is also possible as a stopover option from Kuala Lumpur Airport, although it is further away than the options above.
We can book you a private transfer to Melaka from the airport, Kuala Lumpur or elsewhere here.
Melaka is a pretty city with numerous churches, temples and mosques. There are many heritage sites around the city and the centre is UNESCO World Heritage listed.
It’s also known for its lively Jonker Street area and night market on weekends. Definitely make sure you head there! The central area is great to explore on foot or by trishaw. There are also some great family friendly attractions nearby like the A’Famosa Resort and the Melaka Zoo.
Melaka 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Check into your hotel and relax. Head to Jonker Street in the evening. If it’s Friday or Saturday night, enjoy the night market. If it’s not then there are plenty of places to eat on this famous strip.
- Start at the Sultanate Palace, take a photo of Porta de Santiago and explore the ruins of St Paul’s Church.
- Walk downhill to Stradthuys. Trishaws congregate here so take a ride.
- Walk over the river to Chinatown and head to 8 Heeren Street and the Baba and Nonya Heritage Centre.
- Visit the three temples: Cheng Hoon Temple, Masjid Kampung Kling and Sri Poyatha Venayagar Moorthi Temple.
- In the evening, head to Shore Sky Tower .
Day 3: Pick from your favourite attractions in Melaka in this article like Melaka Zoo or A’Famosa Water World.
Top place to stay: Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka – Click here for the latest prices.
If you are looking for what to see in Malaysia in 4 days, spend your last day visiting more attractions in our list linked to above.
Find all our Melaka guides here.
Want the Easiest (and BEST) Way to travel around Malaysia?
We can book a taxi for you between anywhere in peninsular Malaysia. Travel straight from one hotel to your next without any fuss or sweat.
You can pick your own departure time, relax and know everything will go to plan.
Click here for prices and online booking.
5. Johor Bahru
If you are entering Malaysia from Singapore then Johor Bahru is a great choice for your 3 day Malaysia stopover. It’s very easy to get here from Singapore ( more details here ) and there is plenty to do to fill your time. It’s even possible to make a day trip in Malaysia from Singapore to ‘JB’ – but having a few days is a much more relaxed option.
The easiest way to get here is by private taxi. These can pick you up anywhere in Singapore and drop you anywhere in Malaysia including Legoland or Johor Bahru. They make crossing the border so easy as, unlike buses, you can stay in the taxi the whole time and don’t need to walk through each border side with your luggage.
And, they only cost SG$90 between Singapore and Johor Bahru/Legoland.
Click here to book your taxi now.
This city offers visitors several attractions including a mix of museums, theme parks and natural landmarks like the Gunung Ledang National Park and Gunung Lambak, and there’s plenty to do during your 3 day 2 night trip to Malaysia. It’s also possible to visit the attractions in nearby Desaru Coast or to day trip to Singapore.
In this itinerary, I am assuming you have come from Singapore so do not include this option. Consider it if you haven’t been to Singapore though.
Johor Bahru 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Check into your hotel then head to central Johor Bahru near the causeway to Singapore. Do some shopping or explore the streets to the west of the main strip.
Day 2: Today is all about Legoland Malaysia. Buy discounted tickets here.
Day 3: Get back to nature with a day trip to Gunung Lambak. Climb the mountain here and cool down afterwards in the recreational water park.
For a Malaysia tour itinerary 4 days, take it easy exploring the fun attractions of the Desaru Coast.
Top place to stay: Hotel Jen – Click here for the latest prices
Find all our Johor Bahru guides here.
6. Taman Negara
If you’re based in KL and want to escape to the jungle for a few days, or have time for a 2 days trip in Malaysia from KL, then Taman Negara National Park holds the title as Malaysia’s largest national park and is easy to visit from Kuala Lumpur. It’s truly a nature lover’s paradise!
There are a huge amount of plants and animals in this 130 million year old rainforest and plenty of short and long hikes.
We can book you a private transfer to Taman Negara from the airport, Kuala Lumpur or elsewhere here.
This is a great choice for nature lovers with some great attractions to visit. There is the longest canopy walkway in the world from which you may spot some monkeys. Take a long boat ride into the interior. Explore and discover!
Taman Negara 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Travel to Taman Negara first thing. Take a bus to Jerantut and then another to the jetty at Kuala Tembling. Then take a boat to the main entrance of the park at Kuala Tahan. This boat ride is an attraction in itself. Check into your hotel (ideally in Kuala Tahan like the Mutiara Taman Negara Resort here ) and relax. Eat dinner in a nearby floating restaurant.
Day 2: Visit the Canopy Walkway (if it has re-opened), walk up Teresek Hill and visit an Orang Asli village (indigenous people of this area)
Day 3: Have breakfast at a floating village before taking a boat back to Kuala Tembling and heading back to Kuala Lumpur or wherever your next stop is.
To make your visit smooth and easy, you can book a tour to complete this itinerary here for a great price.
A few hours from Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh is a great balance of beautiful scenery + interesting Old Town + great food! The state capital of Perak is a fantastic destination for a short getaway with plenty of interesting things to do if you’re looking for a Malaysia 4 day tour package that has something a bit different to offer.
We can book you a private transfer to Ipoh from the airport, Kuala Lumpur or elsewhere here.
There’s the unfinished Kellie’s Castle to explore, Tempurung Cave, the popular Sunway Lost World Of Tambun (great for families) and much more. The Old Town area is filled with cute alley ways and Ipoh’s famous street art to find and enjoy.
Plus, there’s Ipoh’s famous white coffee and many amazing food dishes.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants an easy taste of Malaysia while feeling like they have got away from all the tourists.
Ipoh 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Travel to Ipoh ( you can book a bus here ). Check in to your hotel and relax before taking a walk around the Old Town in the evening and having dinner.
Day 2: Start the day with one of Ipoh’s famous white coffees and egg tarts. Walk around the Old Town following the Ipoh Heritage Trail ( download here ). Look out for street art!
In the afternoon, grab a taxi and visit a couple of Ipoh’s cave temples at Sam Poh Tong Temple and Kek Lok Ton Temple. Cover your shoulders and knees and wear sturdy footwear. Have dinner at the Tong Sui Kai Hawker Centre and try as many dishes as you can.
Day 3: If you have the time, spend the day at the fun Sunway Lost World of Tambun . Surely the prettiest location for a theme park in the world ( full review here ).
If you have a fourth day, take a day tour to the Cameron Highlands or go white water rafting . If you have 2 days in Malaysia in Ipoh, concentrate on day two of this itinerary.
Top place to stay: Regalodge – Click here for the latest prices
Read our full 3 day itinerary to Ipoh here or find all our Ipoh guides here.
Penang is our personal favourite spot in Malaysia and a great location for a 3 day break or for a Malaysia 4 days 3 nights itinerary if you have an extra day. It has great variety and you can spend the morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage listed centre of George Town and then relax for the afternoon on the beach.
There’s an interesting multicultural mix of influences, interesting architecture and affordable resort style accommodation. It’s also one of the best places in Malaysia (perhaps the world) to eat, offering some of the best food for great prices, so an all round great getaway whether its architecture, history, food, beaches or island life that appeals to you.
Penang is perfect for anyone looking for a variety of things to do in a beautiful setting while eating top class food!
Penang 3 Day itinerary
I have the perfect Penang 3 day itinerary here.
You can follow it exactly. If you are looking for an itinerary for two days one night trip in Malaysia for Penang or 4 days, they are also in this article.
Top place to stay: Shangri La Rasa Sayang – Click here for the latest prices
Find all our Penang guides here.
Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience In Penang?
Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!
There are two different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food or nightlife.
No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Penang.
There’s no better way to discover this great island.
Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour.
Click here for all your option s .
9. Langkawi
Langkawi is the place to go if you want some easy and luxurious beach time in your 3 days in Malaysia. It has some of the best beaches in the country as well as superb coastal scenery.
Langkawi is actually an archipelago but the main island offers a range of different locations to visit and stay and should be your focus on a 3 day trip. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach destination and the place to stay to be surrounded by action. There are many more peaceful destinations around the island where you can be surrounded by nature.
There are many attractions in Langkawi beyond the beach like the Langkawi Cable Car which takes you to the peak of Gunung Machinchang where you’ll find restaurants, shops and other attractions.
Langkawi 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Take a taxi to your hotel or book a transfer here. Enjoy the afternoon at your hotel or at the beach in Pantai Cenang, Have sunset drinks and dinner here. This is also the place to party this evening.
Day 2: Head to Langkawi SkyCab and SkyBridge then spend the afternoon enjoying the beach at Pantai Tengah (or choose an activity from here ). Finish the day with a stunning sunset cruise.
Day 3: Spend your final morning exploring the Langkawi archipelago on a half day Langkawi Island Hopping adventure . Do some shopping at the Cenang Mall and Zon Shopping Paradise in Pantai Cenang before leaving.
If you have a fourth day, chose some other attractions from our list here. With a 2 days one night trip Malaysia, prioritise the Langkawi SkyCab and the sunset cruise.
Find all our Langkawi guides here or click here to download a free, detailed itinerary for Langkawi. You can copy it exactly!
Top place to stay: Ritz-Carlton Langkawi – Click here for the latest prices
10. Tioman Island
From Singapore, Tioman Island makes an easy destination for a 3 day break in Malaysia. It was once named one of the most beautiful islands in the world and is a good choice for people coming from Singapore who want an island getaway.
We can book you a private transfer to Mersing, for your ferry to Tioman, from anywhere in Singapore.
This island is surrounded by coral reefs which make it the perfect destination for people who love scuba diving or snorkelling. It is also great for hiking.
Tioman Island is a good mixture of development so things are easy, while still being able to get away from it all very easily. The only problem is that after 3 days on Tioman island, you may not want to leave!
Tioman Island 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Make the journey to Tioman Island. Check into your hotel and relax and enjoy the surrounding beaches or hike to another beach.
Day 2: Take a half or full day snorkelling or diving trip around the island.
Day 3: Go for a hike.
If you are looking for what to see in Malaysia in 2 days then I would head straight on a snorkelling or diving trip on arrival.
Top place to stay: Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices
Find all our Tioman Island guides here .
11. Kuching
Kuching, also known as Cat City, is a port city located on the island of Borneo. It is a nice city with a lovely riverfront area which is the best area to stay. If you’re looking to see more of Borneo, then Kuching is a great entry point and a nice place to stop over for a few days.
For people short on time, this is your best bet to get a taste of Borneo. There are many interesting day trips you can do from Kuching as well as exploring Kuching itself with museums like the Sarawak Museum and Cat Museum.
It’s easy to get out in the jungle and explore the wilder side of Borneo with some great national parks nearby.
Kuching 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Check into your hotel and take a walk around the downtown area of Kuching visiting the Sarawak Museum, Chinese History Museum, temples and anything else that takes your fancy. If you enjoy super tacky museums, also take a cab to the Cat Museum. It’s hilarious. In the late afternoon, take a walk along the riverfront.
Day 2: Take a day trip. Choose between Sarawak Cultural Village, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre , Bako National Park , Satang Islands or visit the Annah Rais Longhouse.
Top place to stay: Hilton Kuching – Click here to see the latest prices
Day 3: If you have time, chose another day trip option.
12. Kota Kinabalu
Another destination in Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah state on the opposite side of the northern part of the island compared to Kuching. This is another good choice for people who want to get a taste of Borneo for their 3 days in Malaysia and want to see a different side to Malaysia.
There are many cultural activities as well as getting out in nature and going island hopping. It’s a very accessible way to explore this island.
Kota Kinabalu 3 Day itinerary
Day 1: Check into your hotel and take a half day tour around the main city sights.
Day 2: Get out of the city and explore Kinabalu Park and hot springs.
Day 3: Head to the nearby islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and enjoy snorkelling and a great lunch.
For where to go for 2 days 1 night in Malaysia in Kota Kinabalu, I would pick whatever appeals most to you from days 2 and 3.
Top place to stay: Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort – Click here to see the latest prices
Click here for our full Kota Kinabalu guides.
Want more ideas? Read our list of the best places to visit in Malaysia here . You can really pick any of them to be your base for your 3 days trip to Malaysia if you don’t mind adding some travel time.
Top Options For Places To Visit In Malaysia In 2 Days
Of the above, I recommend that you keep your Malaysia itinerary 2 days to places near where you arrive in the country.
If you arrive at Kuala Lumpur…
Follow the Kuala Lumpur, Sunway Lagoon or Port Dickson itineraries above, just remove one day.
If you arrive at Johor Bahru…
Follow the Johor Bahru itinerary above, just remove one day.
If you arrive at Penang…
Follow the Penang itinerary above, just remove one day.
Do the same thing for any other destination where you enter the country. If you aren’t sure what’s nearby, look at the map below to come up with your best option for what to do in Malaysia for 2 days. If you only have the opportunity for a 1 day trip in Malaysia, you’ll likely be exploring Kuala Lumpur on a stop over (follow Day 1 of the KL guide above) or coming from Singapore to Johor Bharu, in which case you can do day 1 of the Johor Bharu.
Map Of Locations For Malaysia Itinerary 3 Days
Final Words
I hope you have found this list of places to visit in Malaysia in 3 days useful. I am sure anywhere you pick to go will be awesome!
To make sure you get the most out of your three days, consider booking a private taxi here to get you to your city/region of choice quickly and easily.
Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!
Have any questions? Ask them in our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here. We would love to help you!
Find more places to visit in Malaysia here and more Malaysia itineraries here . You can also find our best suggestions for weekend getaways here . All our Malaysia planning guides are here .
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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.
An Incredible 2 Days in Penang: Best Penang Itinerary For A Short Visit
Penang, Malaysia is one of those places that we would return in a heartbeat. While we loved exploring Kuala Lumpur , Penang is easily a favorite place to visit in Malaysia. From the recognition as a top foodie destination to the gorgeous nature and hiking opportunities, we can’t get enough of this place!
We only had two days in Penang as we did a weekend trip with Justin’s colleagues. While two days is a short time frame, it was enough time to experience the Malaysian culture and to wander around the small island. We appreciate the laid-back and slower pace of the city’s vibe, friendly locals, and the affordability of accommodations and food .
In this Penang 2 days itinerary, we’re highlighting the awesome things to do in Penang including the well-recognized street art, mouth-watering places to eat, best places to stay, and how to get around. As you know us by now, we’re including plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and relaxing on the beach. Feel free to mix up the itinerary based on the amount of time that you have and your interests.
Now let’s continue to see how you can maximize your 2 days in Penang itinerary.
* Disclaimer: Have a vacation in Penang? This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.
Penang Itinerary: Day 1 – Explore George Town and Batu Ferringhi
On the first day in Penang, we’re off to explore George Town, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site in Malaysia since 2008 and later heading to the beach at Batu Ferringhi.
Whether you’ve landed in Penang in the morning or stayed in the city the night before, George Town is a great introduction to the capital city of Penang. The area is sprawling with rich culture from its food scene to the incredible street art to the beautiful temples.
At first glance, George Town may look a little dated and grungy compared to Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur , and Singapore . Yet it’s such a charming area that still preserves its original look and feel of the buildings and lifestyle.
Our itinerary below is based on a DIY walking tour. If you prefer to have an organized tour of George Town, consider making a reservation to take this tour.
Walk around and look for amazing street art in George Town.
We’re a fan of seeing street art around the world and George Town’s artwork doesn’t disappoint. It’s one of the top things to do in Penang!
In 2012, Ernest Zacharevic, a Lithuanian artist, transformed George Town to a street art mecca. He created interactive artwork by combining everyday objects such as motorbikes and bicycles with paintings of local people. His artwork is playful and depicts Malaysian people in their everyday lives.
You’ll recognize the famous artwork such as,
- The boy looking back on the motorbike (located near Lebuh Pantai and Lebuh Ah Quee)
- The brother and sister sharing a swing (located near Pengkalan Weld and Gat Lebuh Chulia, next to the 35@Jetty Building 潮人居 )
- The brother and sister reaching out of their window for the bike with the bamboo steamers (located along Gat Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Victoria, next to the Ming Xiang Tai Pastry Shop 名香泰饼家)
Zacharevic’s influence paved the way for George Town to now have dozens of designated street art locations in the main George Town. Besides the interactive artwork, you’ll also notice wire artwork which also depicts the Malaysian culture and the city’s history.
Take the time to travel through the popular areas to spot the artwork such as along Armenian Street and Victoria Street . Consider wandering through quieter streets and alleyways to find some hidden gems.
One of our favorites is of two cats in a yellow tub that says, “Please care n bathe me.” The artwork is small and off an alleyway from Gat Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Victoria that you can easily miss. Plus, we like the PSA that the stray cats need care too!
If you’re interested in learning more about street art and its cultural influences, check out this post on the best street art books to read .
Wander around the Armenian Street and Little India.
Now we’ll head to the cultural areas of Penang. The first stop is Armenian Street . As a former street that housed Armenian traders, it’s now a hot spot to buy unique souvenirs, enjoy a cup of coffee at cafes, and of course, pose with the street art.
Some highlights of the area include:
- Umbrella Street is one of those Instagram spots in Penang with colorful umbrellas above your heads. While the street is small, it’s filled with restaurants and fun street art. It’s located in an alleyway near Zacharevic’s Children on Bicycle street art.
- Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple 福德正神庙 is a great spot to see a Chinese temple.
Not far from Armenian Street is Little India . Embrace your senses and the vibrant colors with the yummy Indian cuisine and shopping in the area. You can stop by the Sri Mahamariamman Temple which is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang.
Head to the Chew Jetty.
Only a short walk away from Armenian Street is the Chew Jetty 姓周桥 (also referred to as Clan Jetty). It’s a floating village area with clothing and souvenir shops and restaurants along the walking route. If you’ve been to Brunei ’s Kampong Ayer or Hong Kong’s Tai-O Village, the look of the jetty area is similar.
The walking route is an out-and-back once you reach the water area. The wooden walkway is tight and can get crowded with visitors so it’s not best for those with claustrophobia. You can also see some street art in the area too.
If you’re hungry, grab a bowl of noodles at the Chew Jetty Big Bowl Noodles 姓周桥大碗公面. While we weren’t hungry, this place looked intriguing. You can order a big bowl of noodles (seafood, beef, pork, vegetarian) for up to five people. The noodles are placed in a giant ceramic bowl (the bowl is bigger than your head!) for everyone to eat out of. The restaurant is closed every Wednesday.
Spend the Afternoon at Batu Ferringhi Beach.
Let’s take a break from exploring George Town by heading to the north side of Penang Island to Batu Ferringhi Beach . It’s 19 kilometers (11.8 miles) away and takes about 40 minutes (depending on traffic) to drive there. The beach stretches about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) so your Grab or taxi driver can drop you off anywhere.
While the water is not the greatest (we think it is a bit dirty) and the sand is coarse, the beach is a good spot if you’re dying for some sun, beach time, or want to get away from the city center. For our group, the beach was our bonding and hang out time. You can hire a boat ride or a jet ski for some water adventures.
Depending on how late you stay in the area, there is an evening night market along the main road, Jalan Pantai Batu, that starts around 8pm. You can purchase souvenirs and eat street food.
If you prefer to have a more sit-down environment for a meal, we recommend that you try Andrew’s Kampung . Located in an unassuming strip mall on the third floor, this place serves good Chinese food. The owner, Andrew, is super friendly and provided suggestions on what to eat. Prices are on the higher end compared to what you can get in George Town. We enjoyed our family-style meal of tofu clay pot, fried sea bass, fried squid, stir-fried veggies, and beef curry. There are plenty of vegetarian options here.
Address: Eden Parade, Jalan Sungai Emas, Kawasan Perumahan Sungai Emas, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Return to George Town for the Night Market and Eat More!
George Town has a few night markets where you can eat your heart out such as Kimberley Street Food Market or Chulia Food Night Market .
We went to the Chulia Food Night Market where many hawker stalls set up shop along Chulia Street selling noodles, BBQ seafood, sandwiches, and more. A small bowl of wonton noodles will set you back 4.50 MYR ($1.08 USD). Prices are reasonable so you can stop by multiple shops.
You can also find more restaurants and bars along Love Lane .
Penang Itinerary: Day 2 – Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si
On our second day in Penang, we’re off to get some exercise hiking up Penang Hill and also the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Lok Si. These two places are some of the most memorable
Hike or Take the Cable Car Up Penang Hill.
Penang Hill is a top place to visit in Penang. With a summit of 833 meters (2,733 feet), it’s the perfect place to work up a sweat to hike up Penang Hill and see the beautiful views of the city. Once you reach the top of the mountain, there are many attractions to visit so you can spend half a day here.
We love hiking so we decided to trek up to Penang Hill summit. There are several hiking routes you can take depending on your starting location.
We took the Heritage Trail which you can get to from the Penang Hill Lower Station . This trail is not technical as you don’t need hiking boots yet it’s humid and hot if you start later in the day. Most of the hiking trail is shaded so that helps and you’ll pass by lots of greenery and trees. There are a few resting spots along the way so you can take a break.
Give yourself a huge pat on the back once you hike to the top as it’s no easy task. It’ll take between 1.5-2 hours to reach the top of Penang Hill.
Read more about our experiences hiking Penang Hill here.
Tip: If you want to hike the trail, go early to beat the heat – before 7am! Don’t be like us and start around 10am! Don’t forget to bring lots of water as you’ll sweat a lot.
Even though we’re sweating like crazy hiking Penang Hill, we’re rewarded to an awesome view of the city and also see the cable car pass by.
Penang Hill Cable Car
Not into hiking? Don’t worry, you can purchase a round-trip cable car ticket for 30 MYR ($7.20 USD) for adults or 15 MYR ($3.60 USD) for children.
The lines for the cable car can be very long and you can wait 30-60 minutes in line! If you want to bypass waiting in line, you can purchase a round-trip express ticket for 80 MYR ($19 USD) for adults and 40 MYR ($9.60 USD) for children.
Skip the line to purchase the cable car tickets and buy them ahead of time here .
With your cable car ticket, you can feel free to get off at the sub-stations to hike up or down Penang Hill. The sub-stations for the cable car are only available at the top of every hour such as 9am, 10am, 11am, etc.
At Penang Hill Summit
Once you reach the summit of Penang Hill, feel free to check out the various free attractions such as the observatory tower, locks of love, the colorful Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan temple, and grab a snack to eat at the Cliff Cafe.
We also recommend that you visit The Habitat where you’re surrounded by the forest. It’s a fun spot to walk around on the suspension bridges, swing on the giant swings, see the view of Penang Hill on the top of Curtis Crest, and enjoy nature. The best part is that this place is quiet and doesn’t have crowds!
You do need to pay a separate admission ticket to enter yet it’s worth the price. For the adventure lovers, you can also do zip lining between the trees (for an additional fee).
The standard admission cost is 55 MYR ($13.10 USD) for adults and 35 MYR ($8.40 USD) for children, seniors, and students. We purchased tickets at the counter, yet you can save money by purchasing tickets ahead of time.
Save money with The Habitat tickets by clicking here .
A visit to Penang Hill’s The Habitat is a must-visit during your two days in Penang. The views of the forest are stunning!
Awe at the Kek Lok Si Temple.
Once you’ve reached the bottom of Penang Hill, take a Grab car to go to the Kek Lok Si Temple , the largest and one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Malaysia .
Your Grab driver will most likely drop you off at the lower level where you need to take cable cars to each of the levels. If possible, ask them to drop you off at the top level so you can bypass the tourist trap of the cable cars and walk your way down to the other levels.
The top area is lovely with the impressive Guanyin statue (Lady Buddha) standing tall at 30.2 meters (99 feet high). The pavilion around Lady Buddha is still in construction. Behind the Lady Buddha statue is an area with over 10,000 smaller Buddhas.
As with any temple, please be respectful when entering the temples as there will be people making prayers. You can buy good luck wishing ribbons for yourself, family members, or friends.
If you prefer a tour of Kek Lok Si Temple, combine the opportunity with a visit to Penang Hill. Consider this tour option.
Although it just rained, Lady Buddha is still stunning at Kek Lok Si Temple.
Stroll through Air Itam Dam.
Our friend who lives in Penang showed us this off-the-beaten-path place nearby the Kek Lok Si Temple. From the temple, if you drive (or walk) along the paved path for 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), you’ll reach Air Itam Dam .
It’s a reservoir area where you can also walk and run around the lake. It was a pleasant and quiet walk where we saw a few families of monkeys (macaques and dusky leaf monkeys – so cute!). Be careful when approaching the monkeys as they are wild animals!
The monkeys at Air Itam Dam are shy as they don’t see too many tourists.
At the end of the day, head back to George Town area to do some last-minute shopping or see things that you didn’t get to on the first day.
If You Have 3+ Days in Penang
Two days in Penang is not enough time to visit everything, especially when it comes to trying all of the different food. If you have three or more days in Penang, consider visiting these other Penang attractions which are on our bucket list when we return.
- Penang National Park has plenty of hiking trails to keep you occupied for the day and you can even head to the beach. It’s on the bucket list to visit Penang National Park’s Meromictic Lake in the future. We also like how there is free admission to the park. If you decide to go on the canopy walkway, there is an admission fee.
- Penang Botanic Garden is an oasis of an area with greenery and beautiful plants. There is a hiking trail that leads to Penang Hill. You can also relax along the waterfall in the area .
- Go shopping in the Gurney Drive area . We didn’t have time to explore the glamorous area of Gurney Drive so we’ll check it out on a return trip.
How to Get to Penang
Most visitors will fly into Penang Bayan Lepas International Airport (airport code: PEN). For us, it was an easy 1.5-hour flight via Air Asia (one of our favorite low-cost airlines in Asia) from where we started in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
If you’re starting your Malaysia trip in Kuala Lumpur, you can take a domestic flight or consider other modes of transportation to get to Penang .
We loved how the airport was so convenient and orderly with immigration. It took us only five minutes to pass through immigration, considering that the line was short.
To head to the main city area, the easiest way is to take a taxi, Grab car, or hire a private driver from the Arrivals terminal. Grab is Southeast Asia’s equivalent to Uber ride-hailing. It’s an efficient way to travel throughout the city and often cheaper than taking a taxi. Download the Grab app here .
Don’t forget that you’ll need to have a data plan in order to use Grab or to browse the internet. Check out this post on the best Malaysian SIM card to purchase. We recommend that you buy one before leaving the airport.
Save money and pre-purchase a 4G SIM card for pick-up at the Penang International Airport .
If you’re from the U.S. and looking to upgrade your international phone plan , consider getting Google Project Fi . You can use data and text on this plan in over 200+ international countries without having to buy a SIM card and/or pay extra. We’ve used this plan since 2016 and love it! Sign up for Google Project Fi and get $20 off your bill .
How to Travel Around Penang
If you’re staying in George Town, then you can walk around everywhere . It’s a walkable area with decent sidewalks (unlike what we’re used to in Ho Chi Minh City).
Another unique opportunity is to hire a cyclo . You get to sit in a carriage and the driver bikes around the city to major attractions. Depending on your driver, he can also act as your tour guide. Compared to other cyclos that we’ve seen in Southeast Asia, the Penang cyclos are adorable as they’re decorated with stuffed animals and streamers for a more inviting ambiance.
Consider taking the Penang Hop On and Off double-decker bus to visit the top highlights of Penang. Purchase your ticket ahead of time and save money !
For a free bus alternative, take the Central Area Transit (CAT) bus which stops by the popular and interesting places of Penang. Click here to see the route s .
For distances farther away, it’s recommended to hire a Grab car . We didn’t see too many taxis driving around in George Town. The traffic in Penang can be slow so you’ll need to be patient or travel during the off-peak hours.
A unique way to explore George Town is on a cyclo tour.
What to Eat in Penang
Oh gosh, what to eat in Penang is the million-dollar question. It’s no doubt that the food in Penang is amazing! There is so much delicious food to eat from the assam laksa to the char koay teow. With our limited time in Penang, we barely made a dent to try all the Malaysian and Chinese food.
To get a taste of Penang street food, take one of these local tours:
- 3-hours George Town Street Food Tour
- 4-hours Penang Street Food Tour
Below are some of the restaurants in George Town that we tried and would recommend.
- Mew’s Cafe is a fabulous spot to try traditional Malaysian food. You can choose to sit inside the restaurant or enjoy the patio. Choose from dishes such as beef rendang, nasi lemak, or noodle dishes. We tried the beef rendang which had tender beef with turmeric rice, pineapple salad, and crackers. We also had the ikan samal with steamed sea bass in banana leaf served with blue rice. The fish was cooked perfectly and had a lot of good flavors from the coconut milk. Try the sago gula melaka for dessert as the pandan sago isn’t too sweet with syrup and coconut cream. Main entrees are around 26-30 MYR ($6.20-$7.20 USD).
Address : 77, Muntri St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
- China House is a must-visit spot to eat in Penang to satisfy your sweet tooth. Come to this place with an empty stomach as you’ll drool over the 30+ fresh-baked desserts from baklava to tiramisu. We tried two pieces of cake – passion fruit coconut butter cake and the fresh ginger cake. Both were heavenly yet the passion fruit coconut butter cake was the winner! It was moist and had a burst of flavor from the passion fruit cream. Each slice of cake is between 11-15 MYR ($2.60-$3.40 USD) and can be easily shared with two people. Besides dessert, you can also have meals for lunch or dinner. Just note that this place is busy so there will be a wait to grab a table and to get waiters’ attention.
Address: 153, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
For more information: Website
Did we say dessert?! Check out China House during your Penang itinerary. It’s a fabulous place to try over 30+ desserts.
- Toh Soon Cafe is a recommended place to eat a cheap breakfast. Locals and tourists line up to find a seat in a tiny alleyway. The menu only has a couple of items. The most popular item is the buttered toast with a running egg. It’s one of those dishes that is so bad for you with the richness from the butter yet oh so good! We also recommend that you try one of the paper-wrapped items on your table. At first, it was a mystery to us yet it was a surprise to see a ball of rice with fried fish, hard-boiled egg, and spicy sambal. The flavors tasted similar to Indonesian food and brought us back to Bali . Three toast with eggs, 1 rice ball, and 3 drinks set us back 21.20 MYR ($5 USD).
Address: Lebuh Campbell, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Come to Toh Soon Cafe for breakfast. Locals and tourists enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and a plate of buttery toast with egg. Simple yet delicious.
- Hong Kee Wan Thun Mee (Hong Kee Bamboo Noodle 鸿记(廣式) 竹昇云吞面 ) is your place if you want Hong Kong-style noodles. The restaurant makes their noodles daily and you can see them in person at 10am and 3pm. From one person pressing the dough down with a giant bamboo stick with his thigh to another person placing the dough in the noodle flattening machine and cutter, it’s such a sight to see the process.
We recommend that you try the wonton noodles and the egg tart (it’s one of the best ones that we’ve eaten!) If you decide to upgrade to a large size, you’ll get more than double the amount of noodles as the regular size.
Address: 37, Lebuh Campbell, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
For more information: Facebook
If you’re missing Hong Kong food, try the noodles at Hong Kee Wan Thun Mee!
- Khoon Klanng Bak Kut Teh is further away from the main tourist attractions yet it has delicious bak kut teh, braised pork ribs in a broth. While this bak kut teh version doesn’t have the pork bone in the broth, unlike what we’ve had in Singapore, it comes with a nice addition of mushrooms and tofu. Our Grab driver recommended that we eat bak kut teh with yam rice and it didn’t disappoint.
Address: 320, Jalan Perak, Jelutong, 11600 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Where to Stay in Penang
Finding accommodations in Penang is relatively easy depending on your budget and comfort. We suggest that you stay closer to the street art area (near Armenian Street) as it’s a prime location.
As you can see from the Penang 2 days itinerary, you’re in a central location for the sites and have easy access to affordable street food. Plus, wouldn’t it be cool to stay at one of the guesthouses in the traditional Straits-Chinese architecture ?! You’ll recognize the tall buildings attached to other buildings and all having reddish rooftops.
Click here to find the best accommodations in Penang’s George Town .
Our group stayed at the Carnarvon House in George Town which provided enough space and was a central location to the major Penang sightseeing places. We rented the entire building. If your group is smaller, you can rent individual rooms. The lower level has a huge living room and dining area. Upstairs has two levels of guest rooms and shared bathrooms with 2 shower rooms and 2 combo toilet/shower rooms with body wash provided. All rooms come with towels and air conditioning. The only bad part about this place was that there are mosquitoes everywhere. The cost is $30-$50 USD per room per night. Find availability and reserve a room at the Carnarvon Hotel.
You can also consider staying in the chic Gurney Drive area or at one of the resorts along the Batu Ferringhi beachside. Here are some splurge/luxury options to consider:
- G Hotel Gurney is located next to the Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon so it’s perfect if you want to go shopping. The cost is $125-$190 USD per room per night. Check availability and reserve a room at G Hotel Gurney .
- Park Royal Penang Resort is within walking distance from the Batu Ferringhi Beach and has all the amenities of a resort including a water theme park for children. The cost is $120-$300 per room per night. Read more about the hotel and make a reservation at Park Royal here .
Our two days in Penang went by way too quickly. We feel like we scratched the surface here. Regardless, we hope you’ve enjoyed reading this post on what to do in Penang in 2 days. Since there is so much to do here, we’ll be back to Penang soon!
Have you visited Penang? What other places should we visit on a return trip? Share in the comments below.
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I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.
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I visited Penang on a cruise a few years ago and hardly had a day there. We visited Georgetown which was a fantastic idea because it was my favourite part of the city. The street art was amazing and so was the street food! Also, going up the Penang Hill was a great thing to do. So glad we managed to squeeze that in given our limited time. I wish to return to Malaysia someday with more time to explore its cities and eat their food because I love it so much!
Wow! Can’t believe you only had less than a day in Penang! You managed to see a lot during your time there. Hope you can return back to Penang again soon!
I think I had recently heard that George Town was put in a top 10 list of places to retire in the world recently…we should have checked it out when we went to KL last year! You’ve really sold me with photos of the food…Toh Soon Cafe will definitely be visted one day!
George Town would be a lovely place to retire! We would just eat our way through this amazing area.
Wow! Thanks for the lovely blog on Penang. You have nicely described how to travel Penang so nicely with awesome 2 days Itinerary – explore George Town, which one is the UNESCO World Heritage site in Malaysia since 2008 and then how to headed back to Batu Ferringhi. I didn’t know the fact that in the year 2012 a Lithuanian artist transformed George Town to a street art mecca which one is really interesting for me
Shreya – We’re glad that you enjoyed the Penang itinerary. It’s such a fascinating place to visit. Hope you can visit in the future!
I would love to see Little India. I remember I stumbled upon Little India in Bangkok and loved the atmosphere. As I have never been to India, seeing Indians with turbans wrapped around their head was fascinating.
I didn’t know there was a Little India area in Bangkok. Thanks for the tip! Will need to check that out on a return trip.
Penang sounds like a fascinating destination! The street art looks incredible and so life-like! I love exploring frescoes – we have some great ones here in Switzerland, we also found some very famous ones in Lyon.
We spent the entire day looking at street art in Penang. Although there is a map of the location for the street art, it’s a bit of a treasure hunt since the artwork could be in an alleyway somewhere. Good to know about the frescoes in Switzerland! Would love to see those on a future visit.
I’ve never been but have heard such great things – especially about the murals there. How fun that you got to meet a furry friend at Air Itam Dam and the Botanic Garden is defs calling my name. Seems like I gotta book a weekend trip here sometime!
Hi Jas! Hope you can visit Penang in the future. A weekend in Penang sounds like a fabulous plan!
Very interesting street art works! I really like this installation with a swing, it’s really ingenious. I have never even heard of this place, but after reading your blog post I would love to visit it.
Ewa, the swing artwork is so much fun to pose with. There are other street art in Penang with props such as with a motorbike, bicycle, basketball hoop, and more!
I love street art myself, Penang has been on my list for quite sometime now. The one with the swing looks so life-like. It’s quite an instagrammable place for travellers.
Yes!! Visit Penang as soon as you can! Many of the street art is fading away from sun damage and/or usage (especially the interacive ones). Hope you can travel there sometime this year.
I really like how the street art and murals in Penang are meant to be interactive with travellers for photos. I’d definitely like to hike up to the viewpoint on Penang Hill, but if it was too hot I’d probably take the cable car! I really like your detailed itinerary, very informative.
Sara – The street art in George Town, Penang is so much fun to explore. We didn’t have enough time to see everything as there are street art hidden in random alleyways. Would love to go back to explore more.
What a beautiful street art!
Hi Niry. Yes, Penang has some of the best street art that we’ve seen on our travels. Hope you get a chance to see them in the future.
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The Best Melaka (Malacca) Itinerary for a 1 or 2 Day Trip
- October 7, 2023
- One Comment
If you’re planning a one or two day trip to Melaka (Malacca) in Malaysia this guide is just for you. We recently spent a few days in the charming coastal city, so we can share what we got up to and what we consider to be the best Melaka Itinerary for one or two days. We cover all the top things to do in Melaka, where to eat and sleep, as well as everything you need to know to help plan your trip.
Whenever I mention Melaka, also known as Malacca , I’m often met with blank or confused faces. The historic city doesn’t find it’s way onto most Malaysia itineraries – which is a pity, as it has a lot to offer. While Melaka might not be as exciting as Kuala Lumpur or as adventurous as Borneo, the city provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of Malaysia. And if you’re looking to explore somewhere a little bit unique, you should, at the very least, consider a day trip to Melaka which is easy to do from Kuala Lumpur or even Singapore.
To sum up the city in a nutshell, Malacca is a melting pot of cultures and a stunning UNESCO Heritage Site. Having once been colonised by the Dutch, British, and Portuguese, you will find said influences in the food, architecture, and even the language. It also has a large Chinese and Indian community, whose influence again are prevalent throughout the city. Gorgeous architecture and a serene river add to its charm, and I promise you won’t regret giving this whimsical little city a chance.
Anyway, I could spend all day bigging up Melaka but let’s get to it. Here’s our tried and tested Malacca Itinerary, ideal for a 1 or 2 day trip.
Heading to Malaysia soon? Check out our 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary and 2 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary for further travel inspiration.
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How Long to Stay in Malacca
While Melaka is a huge city, the tourist centre is actually pretty small. Other than a few exceptions, the tourist centre concentrates most of the cities major landmarks, making it easy to navigate on foot and manageable in a day. If you wanted to explore places a little further afield such as the Melaka Straits Mosque, for example, I’d recommend spending at least 2 days here.
Below I’ve laid out a suggested Malacca Itinerary for 2 days; but if you only have the day, you can follow day 1 of the itinerary and ignore day 2.
Where to Stay in Malacca
There is no shortage of wonderful places to stay in Melaka, regardless of your budget. On one end of the spectrum, you’ll find cute hostels and charming homestays, on the other boutique hotels and luxury resorts.
The best area to stay in would be near the river close to Jonker Street. This way, you’ll be close to most of the top things to do in Malacca, which is ideal if you’re only staying for a day or two.
I’ve made some hotel suggestions below, or you can click the link for a list of all hostels, guesthouses, and hotels in the city.
Check rates and availability for all Melaka accommodation here.
Hostel $ – Yote 28
Yote 28 is where we stayed during our time in Malacca, and it’s one of the best hostel experiences we had in Malaysia. The hostel is modern and clean with excellent facilities, and it’s within walking distance of Jonker Street and other famous landmarks. It is a tad more expensive than most other hostels in the city, but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny.
Check rates and availability for Yote 28 here.
Budget $ – Lavender @ Guesthouse
Hostels aren’t for everybody, so if you’re travelling as a couple or prefer a private room, Lavender Guesthouse comes highly recommended. Again, this place in an ideal location to explore the city, and while basic, the rooms are clean and comfortable, equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable stay. Throw in the optional breakfast for £1, and you’re onto an absolute winner.
Check rates and availability for Lavender @ Guesthouse here.
Mid-Range $$ – Heeren Straits Hotel
If you have a few extra pennies to spend, I can recommend Heeren Straits Hotel which provides insane value for money in one of the best areas of Melaka. Tastefully restored from a Peranakan culture townhouse, you can feel the history throughout this boutique hotel, which combines mid-century architecture with contemporary decor. Opt for a superior room for the best experience and enjoy the onsite terrace as well as a children’s play area.
Check rates and availability for Heeren Straits Hotel here.
Luxury $$$ – Casa Del Rio Melaka
If you are going to treat yourself in Melaka, you can expect nothing less than the celebrity treatment at Casa Del Rio. Set alongside the river, just a 2-minute walk from Jonker Street, this 5* hotel provides astonishing views as well as convenience and luxury in the heart of the city. Alongside spacious and modern rooms, you can enjoy a realm of facilities including an infinity pool and fitness centre.
Check rates availability for Casa Del Rio Melaka here.
Top 10 Things to do in Melaka
I go into a quite a lot of detail in this comprehensive Melaka Itinerary. So if you’re short for time, here’s an overview of the top 10 things to see and do in Melaka.
- Sample all the street food at the Jonker Street weekend market.
- Learn about Malaysian history at one of the many museums.
- Take a ride to remember on a fantasy-themed tricycle.
- Admire the pink facade of the Christ Church.
- Take a serene river cruise on the Malacca River.
- Check out the ruins of St Pauls Church
- Meander the streets on the hunt for street art and colonial architecture.
- Visit The Huskitory and play with Siberian Huskies.
- Marvel the awe-inspiring Melaka Straits Mosque.
- Visit the Cheng Hoon Buddhist Temple.
The Best Melaka Itinerary
OK, let’s jump into the itinerary. The goal here is to be as strategic as possible with your time, but I don’t want you to get too tired. You are on holiday, after all.
If you are spending just one day in Malacca, I suggest sticking to the tourist centre and covering the museums and landmarks in that area. But if you have 2 days in Melaka, we can branch out a little bit and see some of the attractions on the outskirts of the city.
Remember, this is a two-day itinerary. If you only have the day in Melaka, I suggest following Day 1 of the itinerary. You can ignore Day 2 or save it for another time.
Melaka Itinerary Day 1
Discover the tourist centre & significant landmarks.
- Windmill Dutch Square
- Cheng Hoon Temple
- St Pauls Church
- River Walks & Cruises
Windmill Dutch Square
Your first stop on this Melaka itinerary is Windmill Dutch Square. The square is arguably the most famous spot in the city, thanks to its terracotta colonial architecture which is a prime spot for photography. You’ll find many significant attractions surrounding the square, including Stadthuys. Historically, Stadthuys served as the official residence of the Dutch governors. Today, it houses a collection of museums.
We didn’t go inside Stadthuys. You’ll soon realise you have to be picky when it comes to the museums you visit in Melaka as there are so many. For us, the view from outside was enough. It’s not often you see such architecture in this part of the world, and it’s rather striking. It reminded me a little of the Franciscan Church in Ljubljana. Other significant structures around the square include the unmistakeable Christ Church and the Tang Beng Swee Clocktower.
St Pauls Church
St Pauls Church, or should I say the ruins of St Pauls Church is one of the most interesting places to visit in Malacca. The church was built in 1521 by a Portuguese Noblemen, who believed he owed the Virgin Mary his life after surviving a storm at sea. That’s pretty cool as it is, but it’s also the oldest church in Malaysia and South Asia.
As I say, the church is in ruins today, but this only adds to its appeal. Admittedly I have a soft spot for wrecks and remains and anything eerie, but I’m confident you will enjoy it just as much as I did. It won’t cost you anything to visit the church remains other than a little of your energy. Set at the top of a hill, you have to climb some pretty steep steps to get to it.
Street Art Hunting
One thing that surprised me about Melaka was the realm of street art that adorns several of the buildings. Of course, Georgetown in Penang is incredibly famous for its murals, but it seems Malacca is equally vibrant. In fact, hunting for street art turned out to be one of our favourite things to do.
You’ll find a lot of the street art down alongside the river, which is perfect as you can k!ll two birds with one stone. A stroll along the river banks is a gorgeous way to while away the hours and will help you to work up an appetite for lunch. As you walk, look out for the famous street murals such as the vibrant Kiehls wall pictured below. But don’t be afraid to take a detour down the backstreets, as much of the street art is hidden. Or you can check out this Melaka Street Art Guide to help with your quest.
Next up, it’s one of our favourite times of the day – the others being breakfast and dinner, of course. Mealtimes are particularly exciting in Melaka, however, as there is so much incredible food on offer. The hardest part is deciding what to have.
Your best bet is to find somewhere on or around Jonker Street, as it’s nearby our next stop of the day. Thankfully this area concentrates the majority of the best food spots as well, so it’s a win-win.
My first suggestion would be to check out one of the quirky cafes in the area. The cafe culture has grown immensely in this part of the city, and it’s a quintessential Melaka experience. One of our favourites is Kaya-Kaya Cafe, with its industrial decor and delicious food & coffee. But there are many others, as listed in this guide .
Don’t fancy a cafe, not a problem. Why not try the celebrated Malaccan dish of chicken rice balls at Kedai Kopi Chung Wah? Or sample traditional Nyonya cuisine at Nancy’s Kitchen.
Cheng Hoon Teng Temple
After lunch, you can take a gentle stroll along Jonker Street, checking out the cute boutique stores along the way. The stores in this area seem geared mainly towards tourists, and the prices reflect this. But if you’re looking to pick up some local souvenirs, this is the place to go. We aren’t big shoppers ourselves, but according to this Malacca shopping guide , there’s plenty of opportunities around the city.
Not far from Jonker Street is the Cheng Hoon Teng Buddhist Temple. The temple is one of the most notable landmarks in the city and a worthy addition to your Melaka itinerary. Like many other Buddhist temples we’ve visited, the ornate details and vibrant design are a sight to behold.
The temple feels like a mini-museum for Chinese culture and arts, and incense, colourful carvings & shrines give it a profoundly religious vibe. What’s even more impressive, however, is that it’s believed to be the oldest Chinese Temple in Malaysia.
Visit a Museum
We don’t consider ourselves museum buffs, but if it means we’re going to learn about the local history, why not. As I said earlier, you’ll have to be selective about the museums you visit in Malacca on a day trip, as there are several. Some such as the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum and Villa Sentosa are really popular, but there are some hidden gems as well.
Keen to learn more about the Peranakan culture in Malacca, we explored the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum. The Peranakans came from China and settled in Malaysia, where the combination of the two cultures resulted in a new and unique way of life. Admittedly, it isn’t the most exciting museum to visit, but for less than $6, we had a guided tour which provided an interesting insight into Peranakan history.
Another museum worth stopping by is the Sultanate Palace, which is an exact model of a palace belonging to the ruler of Malacca during the early 1400s. Inside is another cultural museum, and at less than $1, it’s incredibly cheap to visit. We also enjoyed the Maritime Museum set inside a replica of a Portuguese sailing ship. If you have the time, you can check out this list of other museums worth visiting in Melaka .
River Boat Cruise
One of the best ways to take in the sights of this picturesque city is to enjoy a peaceful cruise along the river. The river is the focal point of the tourist centre, and on both sides, you can enjoy the multitude of beauty that Malacca has to offer.
If you time the day right, the best time of day to take a river cruise is just as the sun is going down. The shops and bars alongside the river come to life during this time. And as it gets dark, you’ll get to see all the pretty lights.
As you sit back and enjoy the ride, look out for the vibrant street art that adorns many of the buildings, as well as popular landmarks such as the Clock Tower and Ghost Bridge.
Jonker Street Night Market
The Jonker Street night market is the number 1 things to do in Melaka. That’s why I strongly recommend you plan your visit for the weekend if possible, as the market is only on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.
Slap bang in the middle of the tourist centre, Jonker Street is a fun and energetic spot anyway. But when the night market is on, it really bursts into life. Dozens of market stalls set up shop, selling anything from clothing to accessories, and local souvenirs, and best of all, there’s an amalgamation of street food to enjoy.
We spent hours wandering around the market, sampling a realm of different dishes at unbelievably low prices. Grab an ice-cold Tiger beer to wash it down with, and you’re good to go!
Tricycle Ride
After a long day of exploring, it’s time to rest your weary legs, and I suggest taking a tricycle ride back to your hotel. If you’ve travelled in South East Asia, you’re probably wondering what is so special about this activity, but when you get there, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
You see, each of the tricycles in Malacca is adorned in some kind of wild and wacky theme. Hello Kitty is the most common (Malaysians love Hello Kitty! Check out this Hello Kitty Hotel), but you’ll also see Pokemon, Disney, and other in-your-face designs. They often play jingles and are a fun thing to do in Melaka, especially if you’re travelling with little ones.
Malacca Itinerary Day 2
Explore outside of the tourist centre, bukit china, visit another museum, the huskitory cafe, melaka straits mosque.
If you have a second day to explore Malacca, I suggest starting it at Bukit China. Bukit translates to hill , and it’s called Bukit China because it is home to the largest and oldest Chinese cemetery outside of China. The grounds date back to the 15th century and features a temple, burial ground, and a well.
To reach the starting point of the trail is around a 20-minute walk from Jonker Street, or you could take a taxi or tricycle. Once you reach the starting point, it’s around a 1.5km incline to the summit, where you can enjoy sweeping views over the city.
If you don’t mind the early start, we agreed it could be a nice spot to catch the sunrise before breakfast. Otherwise, try to set off before 9 am when it starts to get hot.
To round off the morning, you could check out another museum such as Villa Sentosa or the Maritime Museum, which are both on the outskirts of the tourist centre. If you missed it earlier, here’s a list of the best museums worth visiting in Melaka . Our next stop is a cafe, but they don’t serve food, so grab yourself some lunch beforehand!
Our next stop is often rated the best thing to do in Melaka, and for dog lovers like us, it’s easy to see why. We were beside ourselves when we learnt there was a husky cafe in Malacca. They are our favourite breed of dog, but unfortunately, our travelling lifestyle doesn’t allow for such a commitment just yet. So for now, we have to settle for cuddles with other huskies instead. Like the time we did a Husky Safari in Finland.
At The Huskitory Cafe, you can play, take photos, and spend time with this beautiful and lovable breed. Since our visit, I’ve seen some negative reviews regarding the well-being of the dogs and capabilities of the staff. But when we were there, the huskies seemed happy and healthy, and we saw nothing to cause us concern. Of course, any kind of animal tourism is never entirely perfect, but at least these dogs are cared for. That’s more than you can say for many dogs in Malaysia.
There’s a compulsory entrance fee to the cafe of RM18 which includes a drink, and to avoid disappointment, I would book in advance . It’s also quite a ride out of the city, so use the Grab app to order a taxi. They are super reliable and affordable – much cheaper than local taxis in the city.
Our final stop of the day is the Melaka Straits Mosque. An awe-inspiring structure set on the coast of the Malacca Strait – The stretch of water separating Peninsular Malaysia with the Indonesian island Sumatra – it is by far, one of our favourite spots in the city.
Built on a man-made island just off the coastline, when the water level is high, the mosque appears to be floating on the water. For this reason, it is often referred to as the ‘floating mosque’. With its striking white facade and golden dome, it’s appearance is truly enchanting. The view is even better during sunrise and sunset or at night when the mosque lights up, so try to time your visit wisely.
The view from outside alone is a wonderful experience, but you can visit inside the mosque for free. Just be sure to check the visiting hours on the day as they often change, and wear appropriate clothing. Legs below the knee and shoulders should be covered, but if there are any issues, the mosque provides the necessary gowns free of charge.
Tips & Advice for this Melaka Itinerary
Here I’ll list some of the travel tips that we accumulated during our stay in Malacca. Hopefully, they will help you have a hassle-free break in the city.
Getting to Melaka
If you’re travelling from within Malaysia, your best bet is to take a bus from Kuala Lumpur. The journey time is just two hours, and it’s super easy to organise. Just book your ticket in advance with 12 Go Asia here for the best prices, a guaranteed seat, and peace of mind. We booked all of our internal transport in Malaysia with 12 Go, and it made our lives a hell of a lot easier.
It’s also common for visitors to travel to Melaka from Singapore. It’s just a 4-hour bus ride including the overland border crossing, which is pretty straightforward as Malaysia offers a 90-day free visa to most nationalities.
If you wanted to head to Melaka on a day trip, without the hassle of planning everything yourself, you do have the option to travel with an organised tour group. This Full-Day Trip to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur includes transport to and from your hotel, a guided tour of the most famous historical landmarks, plus a traditional lunch. At less than $45, it’s also excellent value for money.
Getting Around in Melaka
You will spend a lot of time on your feet in Malacca. The tourist centre is rather small and easy to navigate on foot. For the few places further afield, you can take a local taxi or order through the Grab App, which we always found to be the cheapest option.
The Best Time to Visit Malacca
Since Malaysia is close to the equator, it has a tropical climate, sporting hot and humid conditions all year round. With this in mind, the best time to visit is between May to July and December to February when the humidity is lower and days are mostly dry.
Melaka Daily Budget
Below is a breakdown of what your daily Malacca budget might look like:
- Dorm Bed in a Hostel: $5-10
- Budget Private Room: $10-15
- Premium Hotel Room: $50-150
- Street Food: $2-5
- Local Restaurant Food: $7-15
- Taxis: $5-10
- Museums: $2-5
Travel Insurance
Melaka is a very safe place to travel; however, you should still have travel insurance to cover you for the unexpected. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. If the unlikely event that something goes wrong, you’ll want the best cover money can buy.
For this reason, we always recommend World Nomads for travel insurance. They are affordable, offer a variety of packages and add ons, and allow you to make amendments to your policy while travelling.
If you need further convincing, read our article on why you need travel insurance . Or get an on-the-spot quote from World Nomads using the form below.
Staying Connected in Melaka
If, like us, you rely on the internet when you travel (let’s face it, who doesn’t anymore), we have the perfect solution. TravelWifi’s portable pocket wifi allows us to quickly and securely connect when we need it the most. Click the link for more information on coverage, packages, and the latest offers.
Oh, and don’t forget a VPN . Using a VPN is very important these days to make sure that all your data is safe and secure. Also, it helps while travelling not only for safety reasons but also it unlocks geo-restricted content such as Netflix and helps to avoid demographic price discrimination while looking for a flight or a hotel.
We use Surfshark VPN to keep us safe and secure. Register here and use promo code: ourtasteforlife for 85% off and 3 extra months free!
Did you enjoy our Malacca (Melaka) Itinerary?
Let us know! That concludes Melaka Itinerary . We hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful city. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, or through our contact us page. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram here , where we share further travel advice & inspiration.
Stay adventurous and Happy travels.
Charlotte & Natalie x
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We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.
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2 Week Malaysia Itinerary For City, Beach & Nature Lovers
Table of Contents
This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.
So you have 2 weeks in Malaysia? You’re going to love it. Since it’s one of my favourite Southeast Asian countries, I can’t wait to share my Malaysia itinerary to help you love it, too. While Malaysia receives plenty of tourism, it’s not as popular on the backpack trail as Thailand or Bali. There are plenty of places to escape the crowds and enjoy places you haven’t seen before on Instagram. If you have time for a 2 week Malaysia itinerary, you can get off-the-beaten-track and explore all kinds of diverse destinations.
MALAYSIA ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) Getting around: bus and train ( 12GoAsia ) Pre-book your KL airport to city transfer Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide Travel insurance: True Traveller (European travellers) / Hey Mundo (other nationalities) / Safety Wing (digital nomads)
Read next: solo travel in Malaysia , the ultimate guide!
Many of the best things to do in Southeast Asia can be found in Malaysia. There’s no much variety: Kuala Lumpur is a cultural melting pot with authentic street food alongside opulent sky bars. But Malaysia isn’t all about big cities: there are some gorgeous small cities like Melaka and Ipoh which are lesser-known to tourists but great for soaking up the charm of Malaysia.
Visiting neighbour countries? Check out my 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary
Then, there are quirky cities like George Town on the island of Penang with countless hipster cafes and plenty of day trips around the island. There are also paradise beaches like Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands, as well as dense rainforest in Taman Negara National Park and rolling tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands. Malaysia really has everything!
Check out my other 2 week Asia itineraries to Taiwan , Vietnam , Bali and Korea .
Two weeks in Malaysia itinerary
I’m going to share three different 2 week Malaysia itineraries: one for city lovers, one for nature lovers and one for beach lovers. Follow whichever one best suits you or mix them up. I’ll share the majority of details in the first itinerary as some destinations overlap, then I’ll introduce the new destinations in the following 2 itineraries.
Read next: 101 Southeast Asia backpacking tips
Malaysia 2 week itinerary for nature lovers
Days 1-2 kuala lumpur.
Whether you’re a city lover or not, you can’t visit Malaysia and not explore Kuala Lumpur. The capital is one of the flashiest cities in Southeast Asia, apart from maybe Bangkok . The iconic Petronas Towers were once the tallest buildings in the world and although they’ve since lost the title, they make for an impressive view while sipping cocktails from a sky bar opposite.
Day 1: Explore Chinatown , a vibrant area of Kuala Lumpur. Head inside Indian temple, Sri Mahamariamman, and Chinese temple, Guan Di, to begin soaking up the culture. Browse Petaling Street which is an atmospheric market, although a little rough around the edges. Check out the wet market behind with authentic food stalls like Madras Lane Curry Laksa. You can also find tasty cuisine in Tang City Food Court, as well as Insta-friendly Merchant’s Lane Cafe and charming Old China cafe with 100 years of history.
For the afternoon, take a trip over to Merdeka Square where you can see Jamek Mosque and the impressive Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Then, take a taxi or walk over to KL Forest Eco Park where you can walk swinging canopy bridges over the rainforest with skyscraper views. For the evening, spot street art in Bukit Bintang neighbourhood before the sun sets. Eat dinner at Jalan Alor Night Market which gets busy after 7pm with locals dining outside on char kway teow, dim sum and other Malay, Indian and Chinese dishes. If you have energy left, there are lots of bars around Bukit Bintang. Check out my Kuala Lumpur guides:
- How to spend 2 days in Kuala Lumpur
- What to eat in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur
- Instagrammable cafes in Kuala Lumpur
Day 2: For the second day of your Malaysia itinerary, we’ll explore the culture and get to know the country’s ethnic populations. Start by catching a taxi to Thean Hou Temple , an enormous temple site dedicated to the Chinese goddess of the sea. After an hour wandering around and taking photos, call another Uber to Brickfields , the Indian neighbourhood, for an early lunch of curry on a banana leaf. Yum!
I recommend GetYourGuide for KL activities:
For the afternoon, board a train from KL Sentral to The Batu Caves . Check train times on Google Maps because often they only depart every hour. If you’d prefer, take a guided tour to Batu Caves ($8 USD) or a half day KL tour inc a Batu Caves stop ($14). The vibrant Batu Caves are a vibrant addition to your Malaysia 2 week itinerary. You can walk up the rainbow stairs provided your legs and shoulders are covered (sarongs can be rented at the bottom if not) and explore the cave temple at the top.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
- For backpackers, stay at Sunshine Bedz in Kuala Lumpur for a comfy, social hostel located near KL Tower and the Petronas Towers. Beds start from $10 a night .
- Space Hotel @ China Town Kuala Lumpur – this boutique capsule bed hotel just 2 minute’s walk from Petaling Street. Book from $15 a night .
- With a garden, shared lounge and terrace, Hotel Aman is budget-friendly hotel with a 24-hour front desk, concierge service and free Wi-Fi. Book from $30 a night.
- If you’re splashing out during your 48 hours in Kuala Lumpur, The Face Suites is one of the fanciest places to be with amazing views from the rooftop pool. Book from $70 a night .
Days 3-5: Taman Negara
To visit Malaysia’s biggest national park, translating into Bahasa adventurously as ‘National Park’, you can travel independently or take a tour. While it takes a while to get there, visiting this 130 million-year-old rainforest was a highlight of my Malaysia itinerary.
While you can visit Teman Negara without a tour, I enjoyed the chance to relax and let someone else take the lead during my busy 2 weeks in Malaysia. We departed KL and rode in a minibus until transferring to a longboat and travelling to Kuala Tahan, the village at the heart of the park. From there, we spent 2 days walking canopy bridges, taking guided nature walks, rapid shooting and meeting the local community who live in the forest. The tour included all our meals and accommodation and they even helped organise our onwards journeys, mine to Tanah Rata in the Cameron Highlands. To visit independently (and stay overnight) take bus and boat from the Han Travel and organise your own activities when you arrive. Alternatively, visit as part of a day trip from KL .
Days 6-8: Cameron Highlands
Two weeks in Malaysia wouldn’t be complete without the Cameron Highlands, a misty land of rolling hills and tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. Once you know it was a British hill station, the reason for the tea is clear. The best place to stay is the town of Tanah Rata where you can organise tours and sample excellent Indian food along the high street. Depending on what you want to do, you can spend one or two days in the Cameron Highlands. We spent the first day visiting tea plantations and strawberry fields on a guided tour and a second day hiking in the Cameron Highlands . There’s not much by the way of nightlife but at least you can relax and sip some excellent tasting tea! Alternatively, visit the Cameron Highlands as a day tour from KL .
Days 9-11: Penang
The next stop for our 2 week Malaysia itinerary is the island of Penang off the west coast of Malaysia. Not only is there lots of nature, hiking and scenery on Penang but it’s a good launching point for our final destination, Langkawi. The best place to stay is the island’s main city of George Town . This hipster city is known for street art famously created by Ernest Zacharevic, as well as world-class street food and more recently, hipster Penang cafes.
Day 9: Arrive and head out for some Penang street food. Check out my guide for all the best things to do in Penang which include exploring Little India, the numerous temples, Clan Jetties floating houses and, most importantly, eating cake at Chinahouse cafe.
Here are also some food tours you can join:
—> Penang: Evening walking foods tour
—> Penang harmony food trail
—> Private Penang tasty local street food tour
Day 10: Take a day trip over to Kek Lok Si Temple in nearby Air Itam town. After lunch of famous asam laksa at Pasar Air Itam Laksa, continue to Penang Hill. You can hike or take a cable car up to the top and look out over the island.
Read next: visiting Kek Lok Si from George Town
Day 11: Spend the day exploring Penang National Park. Located 20km from Penang, you can drive there in 30 minutes from George Town and spend the day trekking, walking the Canopy Walkway and visiting Monkey Beach. If you’re not hiring a car during your 2 weeks in Malaysia, you can take an organised day trip to Penang National Park or catch the 101 bus from George Town for 4 MYR. The first bus is at 5.30am and the last is at midnight so you’ll have plenty of time to make a day of it. For more details, visit this blog on visiting Penang National Park .
Where to stay in Penang
- EZ Social – with a co-working space, lively bar and laundry facilities, this is a fantastic and sociable place to stay. Book from $10 a night .
- The Frame – in a well-preserved heritage house with a TV lounge, spacious lockers and individual reading lamps and electrical plugs, this is the comfiest base for budget travellers. Book from $10 a night .
- Carnarvon House – in central Georgetown with great reviews, this is a fantastic budget hotel. Book from $30 a night .
- Savv Hotel – a wonderful mid-range base with an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, garden, shared lounge, a bar and terrace. Book from $60 a night .
- Blue Mansion – for the ultimate treat, this 4-star heritage property has boutique rooms with antique fittings. Book from $120 a night .
Days 12-14: Langkawi
To finish off your Malaysia itinerary for 2 weeks, relax on the beach in beautiful Langkawi. This gorgeous island across from Penang is one of the best places in Malaysia for holiday vibes, as well as wildlife and natural scenery. To arrive, simply catch a ferry from Swettenham Pier for 80 RM, taking 3 hours in total.
Day 13: Consider taking a taking a boat tour around the highlights of Langkawi. As well as watching eagles soar to catch fish, you can swim and visit quieter beaches only accessible by private boat. Day 14: Relax on the beach or explore the island further, soaring over Langwaki on Langkawi Cable Car or walking Langkawi Sky Bridge.
Malaysia 2 week itinerary for city lovers
Want to focus more on cities than nature during your 2 weeks in Malaysia? Follow this itinerary.
Days 1-2: Kuala Lumpur – as above
Days 3-4: melaka.
The small city of Melaka is a lovely place to visit during 2 weeks in Malaysia. You can actually take a Melaka day trip from Kuala Lumpur if you’re short on time but I’d recommend staying over if possible.
In many ways, Melaka is a strange place, for example the central square’s windmills and church dating back to Dutch colonial rule of Melaka from 1641 to 1826. Even weirder, you’ll see (and hear!) ridiculous Minion and Hello Kitty tricycles roaming the streets playing Nicki Minaj and offering rides. Aside from these oddities, Melaka is a charming town with lots of Straits Heritage buildings lived in by the Chinese community. If you’re staying for the weekend, make sure you eat and soak up the atmosphere at Jonkers Street Night Market . You can also take a trip to Melaka Straits Mosque, eat at authentic Melaka restaurants, and explore the street art.
Read my Melaka blogs:
- Things to do in Melaka
- Best Melaka food guide
- Melaka street art guide
- Melaka cafes & coffee shops .
Days 5-7: Ipoh
From Melaka, you can catch a direct bus passing back through KL to one of my favourite places in Malaysia. If you’re short on time, take a KL to Ipoh return day tour . The charming city of Ipoh is a must for your Malaysia 2 week itinerary with some impressive countryside and cave temples surrounding it. I actually preferred it to Melaka. Read about everything I got up to in my Ipoh itinerary .
Day 6: Explore the highlights of Ipoh. Start your day at Old Town White Coffee before spotting street art along Mural Art’s Lane, visit Panglima Kinta Mosque, then soak up the markets and heritage buildings along Concubine Lane and Market Lane. Eat famous chicken rice at Luo Wang . Day 7: Take a trip to the cave temples surrounding Ipoh. Sam Poh Tong is a Chinese Buddhist temple about 5km from Ipoh with colourful statues from Chinese mythology (and a random Pegasus statue). Entrance is free and there’s a hidden temple at the back. Kek Lok Tong is another set of caves, although the highlight is the incredible scenery rather than the temples inside. Wander around the 14km grounds surrounded by limestone peaks. Continue to Perak Cave Temple , another impressive place with lots of religious cave art and a panoramic view from the top. Check out my guide to visiting the Ipoh cave temples .
Where to stay in Ipoh: the best hostel in town is the Brownstone with a rooftop garden, TV room, coffee makers and more from $13 a night. For a lovely hotel with a restaurant, opt for M Boutique Hotel Station from $35.
Days 8-9: Cameron Highlands
From Ipoh, you’re only an hour and a half from the Cameron Highlands, one of the most naturally beautiful places I visited during 2 weeks in Malaysia. Why not take a break from culture and cities and spend a couple of days soaking up the natural beauty and drinking tea? A night in Tanah Rata is enough to see the region if you’re not trekking. Jump up to my first 2 week nature itinerary above.
Days 10-12: George Town, Penang
City lovers should not miss Penang from their 2 week Malaysia itinerary. It’s easy to spend a couple of days enjoying city life in George Town while eating amazing street food and visiting Chinese temples, Hindu temples, mosques and even churches. If you visit on a Sunday, take a trip to Hin Bus Depot where the weekend market sees live music, food trucks and a craft market.
The amount of time you spend in Penang depends how many day trips you take from George Town. As well as visiting Kek Lok Si Temple, you can take a day trip to Penang National Park or explore the island further. Jump back up to my first Malaysia itinerary for the details. Check out my Penang guides:
- Things to do in Penang
- Penang street food guide
- Digital nomad Penang guide
- Best street art in Penang
- Healthy food in Penang
- 12 best cafes in Penang .
Days 13-14: Langkawi
After your busy 2 week itinerary of Malaysia, head over to Langkawi on the ferry for some beach chills. Jump back up for all the details.
Malaysia itinerary for 2 weeks – beach lovers
Days 3-7: perhentian islands.
Located off the northeast coast of Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands are a must for beach lovers spending two weeks in Malaysia. I’m pretty sure you could spend your whole Malaysia itinerary here and leave happy (although I’m including a few extra destinations too). There are two islands to visit, Besar (big) and Kecil (small) so I would suggest spending a good chunk of time in the Perhentians in order to see them both.
Seasonal note – the best time to visit is March to early November as monsoon season draws in soon after. Unlike many beach destinations around the world, there’s a limited window each year for visiting the Perhentian Islands. Make sure to book your accommodation ahead of time as things can get booked up. Getting to the Perhentian Islands from Kuala Lumpur: The cheapest option is an overnight bus from PWTC Station in Kuala Lumpur arriving at Kuala Besut where you can catch a ferry to the Perhentians. Alternatively, AirAsia fly into Kota Bharuor Kuala Terrengganu and catch a ferry. Days 4-5: Perhentian Besar . Visit Turtle Beach and spot turtles from Turtle Point. There are lots of locations around the coast for snorkelling and diving. This island is slightly quieter than Kecil so if you are looking for a relaxing stay, this is the spot. Days 6-7: Perhentian Kecil . This island may be the smaller of the two but it’s the most popular, making it best for meeting other travellers and finding good deals on snorkelling and diving. You can even take your PADI license while looking for sharks and turtles. Long Beach is where most tourists stay but you can also explore quieter Coral Beach and stay for sunset.
Days 8-9: Ipoh / Cameron Highlands
Choose either Ipoh or the Cameron Highlands as a stop-off in central Malaysia, although Ipoh is slightly easier to reach. Catch the ferry from the Perhentians then a bus changing at Pasir Puteh. Alternatively, you could head to Penang from the Perhentians and then on to Langkawi Island.
Days 10-11: Penang – as above
Days 12-14: langkawi – as above.
I hope you enjoyed my Malaysia itinerary and you have a fantastic time during your 2 weeks in Malaysia. This country is so full of friendliness, food and diverse destinations that you’d be hard pushed not to!
Thanks for reading my Malaysia itinerary
See you next time,
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Malaysia useful links Flights – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just span the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia . For Malaysia buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!
Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!
8 thoughts on “ 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary For City, Beach & Nature Lovers ”
What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Malaysia again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!
– Veronika
Hi Veronika! Thanks for reading and commenting. I adore Malaysia too and can’t wait to find myself back there one of these days 🙂
Can you tell me when is the best time to visit Malaysia for city lovers? I will need to travel before March 2024 as I have an airfare credit. Would June, July or August work?
Hey Alice, sorry for late reply! I think the cities may be too hot in that summer season.
Hi Rose, Really well written article. I notice that you excluded the Borneo part of Malaysia. Is that because you don’t think it’s worth seeing or you’ve not had a chance to go there yourself.
Hi Roben, I went there myself but only briefly and didn’t feel qualified enough to talk on it. But I liked what I saw!
Hey Rose! Love your article. It is packed with information and will make my upcoming trip to Malaysia easier. I tried to buy eSIM trough your link but simply don’t understand how it works. It is an app, and no actual physical SIM card? Do you mind telling me step by step how to get eSIM? Thank you so much 🙏🏾
Hi Indra, they wiil email you the QR code and you will activate it. You are right, there’s no physical SIM!
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The Sunrise Dreamers
2 Week Malaysia Itinerary (Mainland): Best Things To Do
We have put together the perfect 2 week Malaysia itinerary if you want to explore the mainland of the country and discover the rich culture, amazing food and vibrant nature! We’ll show you how to travel around mainland Malaysia, visit some of the best cities, where to stay and tasty food recommendations!
If you only have time for 2 weeks in Malaysia, it’s going to be hard to see everything. The country is huge with areas that need flights and ferries.
This itinerary focuses on the main island ( The Malay Peninsular) between Thailand and Singapore. It’s really easy to add the islands and Borneo onto this itinerary as the route starts and ends at airports.
We’re so excited to share this Malaysia itinerary as there’s so much more to the country than its popular capital city – Kuala Lumpur . A trip away from the major city and you’ll find beautiful tea plantations, national parks and different food specialities from other regions.
The country is incredibly diverse with a mix of Malay, Indian and Chinese cultures. You’ll also find old colonial buildings from the Dutch, British and Portuguese that have been preserved and converted into shops, museums and restaurants.
When exploring Malaysia, we wrote down as much information as possible to create this tried and tested Malaysia travel guide. Let’s plan your Malaysia 2 week itinerary!
This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .
Quick Tips for a 2 week Malaysia Itinerary
Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)
- Currency – Malaysian Ringgit (compare your currency here )
- Language – Malay (also Mandarin and Tamil)
- Cuisine – Malay, Chinese & Indian (noodles, rice, dosas, soups, curries, roti & more)
- Apps – GoogleTranslate, GoogleMaps, Grab, Booking.com &, Hostelworld
- Power Voltage – Plug G, 240V ( Same as the UK )
Accommodation in Malaysia
There are many hotels, hostels, homestays and guesthouses in Malaysia for affordable prices. We share our recommendations throughout this itinerary and we always use Booking.com to find places to stay.
Sim Card in Malaysia
If you’re spending 2 weeks in Malaysia, it’s definitely working getting a sim card. We picked up a Digi sim card at Penang airport for around 35 RM (around £6.15) for a 30-day ( unlimited social media ) package.
There’s also the option of pre-purchasing an E-Sim in advance to avoid any queues at the airport and they’re really easy to set up. You can also purchase a Celcom Simcard in advance on Klook (Pick up at KLIA 2)!
Also, check out our in-depth guides to each destination:
- 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)
- The Best 2 Day Melaka Itinerary: Things To Do (Malacca)
- Cameron Highlands Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)
- The Best Ipoh Itinerary: 2 Days in Ipoh (2024)
- 4 Day Penang Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)
Best time to visit Malaysia
Malaysia has a hot and tropical climate all year round. There are many different weather systems and typhoons in Malaysia that change throughout the region.
For this 2 week Malaysia itinerary, the best time to visit is from February to September . The west coast experiences rain a lot throughout the year, but it gets worse around September and October . This is especially true for the Cameron Highlands which is colder than the rest of the country.
The best time to visit the east coast of Malaysia is March and early October , which can be explored at the end of this mainland itinerary. During the wet season in the Perhentian islands, the rain is usually a lot heavier than the wet season in the west.
How to get around Malaysia
Flying – There are plenty of airports around Malaysia as it’s a huge country! Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Penang Airport connect to each other or to the island of Borneo. Most cities on this itinerary also have their own airports.
Bus – Ultimately the best way to get around mainland Malaysia is by bus. They are so comfortable for long journeys and it was even possible to use our laptops on them! Check for times and prices on 12Go , RedBus or EasyBook . If you book tickets online, you have to print them out before getting on the bus.
Train – There’s also a train line through some of the country which is a great way to leave or enter Kuala Lumpur. Check times on 12Go here!
Planning more trips in Southeast Asia ? Check out our Ultimate 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary: 2024 !
2 Week Malaysia Itinerary (Mainland)
After a few quick tips, it’s time to share our Malaysia itinerary. This route can be switched around if you’re starting in Penang and it’s very easy to add more locations to this itinerary at the beginning or end (such as Borneo, Langkawi or the Perhentian islands).
Day 1 – 4 | Kuala Lumpur
The best way to start your 2 week Malaysia itinerary is in the capital city , Kuala Lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur is an urban wonderland with culture and delicious food around every corner. It’s also home to the iconic Petronas towers which can’t be missed when visiting the city.
Due to the city’s well-connected airport, it’s a popular layover destination in Southeast Asia , but it definitely deserves more than a day. Check out our 3 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary for full details.
How to get to Kuala Lumpur city centre
It’s likely you’ll be arriving in Kuala Lumpur by flight or bus and if you’re following this Malaysia itinerary you will enter the city twice after a side trip to Melaka.
- Flying – Kuala Lumpur International Airport is one of the best in Southeast Asia ( along with Singapore ) and it’s the perfect place to arrive from anywhere else in the world.
- Bus – Malaysian buses are the best way to get around the country and there are even routes from Singapore. Check for times and prices on 12Go , RedBus or EasyBook .
- Train – The trains in Kuala Lumpur arrive and leave from KL Sentral Station! Check times on 12Go here!
How to get from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to the city centre
There are two terminals at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and both are connected by a small train that’s free to use. Both terminals are easy to get to using public transport from the city centre. Here’s a few ways to do it:
- Train – A train ticket from the airport to KL Sentral takes around 30 minutes and costs around RM 55. Book your KLIA Ekspres Airport Train Tickets on Klook here !
- Bus – The bus is cheaper at RM 15 but can take 45 minutes to an hour and arrives at KLIA2.
- Grab – If there are more than two people, then a Grab ride could work out more cost-effective.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
In total, we’ve spent over 1 week in Kuala Lumpur exploring all the best things to do. We highly recommend spending at least 2-3 days in the city and seeing the main highlights. Here’s a few things to see during the first few days of your Malaysia itinerary!
If you’ve been looking at photos of Malaysia, you’ve likely seen the beautiful rainbow-painted stairs at the Batu Caves. These are one of the most popular things to see in Kuala Lumpur and are easy to get to via train or Grab from the city centre. You can also do a Batu Caves Half-Day Tour !
The Batu Caves have Hindu shrines inside and you can also find colourful Hindu buildings around the area. For religious reasons, legs must be covered when entering the temple and climbing up the stairs.
Central Market
During your Malaysia 2 week itinerary, another must-visit place in Kuala Lumpur is the Central Market, right around the corner from China Town. It’s an indoor market filled with small boutique stalls mainly aimed at tourists. We found a very affordable jewellery shop and appreciated the air con in the building!
Petaling Street Market
In the heart of China Town is one of the best markets in Kuala Lumpur – Petaling Street Market ! This is completely different to Central Market and rougher around the edges.
We have passed through this market multiple times throughout our Kuala Lumpur treats as you really can’t miss it when exploring China Town. There’s food, clothes, watches, technology and more! You can find bargains all around!
The China Town area is one of our favourite places in Kuala Lumpur, we love the hustle and bustle, the beautiful street art, cosy cafes and delicious restaurants.
Make sure to visit the Hindu Temple, Mahamariamman Temple and the Taoist temple, Guan Di Temple whilst you’re in the area. Also, check out the colourful houses and street art near Kwai Chai Hong !
You can also jump on a Kuala Lumpur Half-Day City Tour with a guide that will teach you so much more about Malaysia!
Little India (Brickfields)
Little India is the perfect way to fuel up for the day with authentic Indian food! The streets are beautifully painted with colour and there are many Indian-related shops in the area. The best way to get to Little India is via KL Sentral, the main train station in Kuala Lumpur.
Our favourite restaurants in Little India are Saravanaa Bhavan and Singh Chapati House although anywhere will be good.
Petronas Towers
The iconic Petronas Towers are the most famous buildings in the country and are worth seeing during your 2 weeks in Malaysia. They were once the tallest buildings in the world and are currently the tallest twin towers in the world.
At the base of the towers, there’s a light show every evening and on the inside is a mall with the Sky Deck on some of the higher floors.
Get your tickets on Klook for a discount when visiting the Sky Deck of the Petronas Towers! Book your tickets in advance here !
Bukit Bintang
There’s an abundance of malls to choose from on this Malaysia itinerary and Kuala Lumpur has some of the best! Check out Berjaya Times Square (BTS) for the best experience of shopping and there’s even a theme park!
If you’re around in the evening, visit Jalan Alor Food Street Market to explore the many options of food! You’ll find a range of Asian cuisines and lots of tropical fruit!
Merdeka Square
Merdeka Square is a significant area in Kuala Lumpur, symbolising the day that Malaysia became an independent country. The buildings that surround the square, such as Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Jamek Mosque are definitely worth visiting as they’re so close to China Town.
There’s honestly too much to do in this city, if you have some extra time check out the Perdana Botanical Gardens , Masjid Wilayah Mosque (Federal Territory Mosque) , Thean Hou Temple and take a visit up the KL Tower – Find tickets here !
If you want a more local activity during your Malaysia 2 week itinerary, head to a water park – Find tickets to Sunway Lagoon here
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
The best area to stay in Kuala Lumpur is near KLCC , Bukit Bintang , Chinatown & KL Sentral .
Kuala Lumpur is the only time we’ve ever stayed in a rooftop pool because they’re so affordable here! It’s the best opportunity on yiur Malaysia itinerary 2 weeks! We’ve added three to our list and they’re worth it to have views of the city.
Ceylonz Starlight Suites Bukit Bintang $$ – A beautiful rooftop pool in a modern hotel – Find on Booking.com here !
Hotel 1000 Miles $ – Great prices, great location and there’s private or dorm rooms. We stayed here twice during our 2 weeks in Malaysia! – Find on Booking.com here !
Mingle @ Highstreet $ – Here’s a hostel for social travellers or those travelling solo and there’s even a rooftop pool here! Find on Hostelworld here !
D’Majestic Place $-$$ – We have also stayed here twice throughout our time in Malaysia just to use the amazing pool on the roof. The rooms are great too! – Find them here on Booking.com !
Best Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur
- Sweet Veggie (Pudu) $ – Our favourite Chinese buffet restaurant in KL ( location )
- Sangeetha Veg Restaurant $-$$ – Indian Food in Masjid Jamek ( location )
- Happy Sambodi Vege Restaurant $ – Affordable Chinese food ( location )
- The Hungry Tapir $$ – Amazing veggie & vegan food including desserts ( location )
- Minf Houze Vegan Cafe $-$$ – Vegan Malay food near KLCC Park ( location )
- Singh Chapati House $ – Indian food in Little India, Brickfields ( location )
Also, check out the Atmosphere 360 Revolving Restaurant in KL Tower for a dining experience! Find your tickets on Klook here !
Alongside our 2 week Malaysia itinerary, check out more of our Southeast Asia guides including our in-depth Malaysia travel guides !
Day 4 – 6 | Melaka
The next destination on this Malaysia 2 week itinerary is the historic city of Melaka! We recommend spending 2 days here to check out the best things and if you can time it right, make sure you visit on at least one of these days – a Friday, Saturday or Sunday!
If you’re arriving from Singapore, it makes sense to visit Melaka before Kuala Lumpur as it’s along the way. Melaka is worth a visit on any Malaysia trip to discover the old shophouses, dutch buildings, and take lovely walks along the river.
The city is much smaller than Kuala Lumpur, so it’s easy to get around. It’s also possible to visit Melaka on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur with a guide !
How to get to Melaka from Kuala Lumpur
The best way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka is by bus . It’s only a 2-hour journey from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) in Kuala Lumpur to Melaka Sentral . From Melaka Sentral, you can take a local bus or a Grab to the city centre.
You can the times and prices of buses using 12Go , RedBus or EasyBook !
Things to do in Melaka
As Melaka is quite small, we’ve included enough activities for 2 or 3 days. Check out our 2 Day Melaka Itinerary for a full detailed guide!
Admire the Church of Saint Paul
One of our favourite old buildings in Melaka was the Church of Saint Paul standing high on St Pauls hill. It’s known as the oldest church in Malaysia and in the region of Southeast Asia !
The church is being preserved however there’s no roof and you can freely walk around the area looking at the tombstones and old walls.
Join a Historical Melaka Tour to find out more about the history of Melaka – Find more details here !
A Famosa (Fortress)
A Famosa is an old fortress that is in ruins now. The main highlight is seeing the main gate to the fortress (Porta de Santiago). The fortress is near the Church of Saint Paul, so it’s perfect to pair together. Also, A Famosa means ‘The Famous’ in Portuguese !
Melaka Straits Mosque
Another beautiful spot on this 2 week Malaysia itinerary is the Melaka Strait mosque . It’s just outside of the city centre but a good sunset is on the horizon. You can catch Grab to the mosque for around 10 RM. We found some rocks with the best views of the mosque on the water. It’s also possible to enter inside if you’re wearing the correct clothing.
Jonker Street Night Market (Friday to Sunday)
We mentioned above that it’s worth visiting Melaka over the weekend because that’s when the Jonker Street Night Market is in Melaka. This is one of the best things to do in Melaka!
You’ll find music, street food and lots of mini stalls selling a bit of everything! Jonker Street is also worth checking out in the daytime.
Dutch Square
The Dutch Square is another site you can’t miss if you’re visiting Melaka during this 2 week Malaysia itinerary. The square is surrounded by beautiful colonial red buildings such as the Christ Church , Stadthuys and Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower (the tower was built more recently matching the red theme of the square).
Sunset River Cruise in Melaka
Melaka is split by the Malacca River which gives the city the perfect opportunity to do boat rides! The best time of day to go on a Melaka boat trip is in the evening for sunset. Ticket prices are around 25 RM and the ride is 40 minutes long. You can buy your tickets on the day at the Melaka River Park and Cruise building.
Street Art in Melaka
Throughout this 2 week Malaysia itinerary, you’ll notice that we love to find street art in every city. Melaka has plenty of wonderful street murals to discover such as Kiehl’s Colourful Wall , The Orangutan House , Melaka Street Art (The Well) and there’s also some art along the river near The Old Merchant .
Here are a few more things to do in Melaka if you have extra days – The Shore Sky Tower , Bayou Lagoon Water Park and Upside Down House Gallery !
Where to stay in Melaka
The best area to stay in Melaka is near Jonker Street (Jalan Hang Jebat) and the Old Town !
Haven Inn $ – This is where we stayed in Melaka – Find it on Booking.com here !
The Cozy Place by Nestcove $ – A lovely modern guesthouse in Melaka – Find on Booking.com here !
Bali Residences $$ – Just outside of the city centre is this luxury and affordable place with a swimming pool – Find it on Booking.com here !
Best Restaurants in Melaka
- Chin Hua Vegetarian Food $ – The best Chinese buffet restaurant in Melaka! ( location )
- Restoran Saravanna – Chettinadu King $ – Authentic Indian food in Melaka! ( location )
- Thong Xin Vegetarian Restaurant $ – Delicious Chinese food! ( location )
- Botanist Cafe $$ – Vegetarian restaurant with Malay options! ( location )
We have more Southeast Asia posts , including a & 2 Week Cambodia Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Cambodia (2024) !
Day 6 – 9 | Cameron Highlands
After exploring some of Malaysia’s cities on this Malaysia 2 week itinerary, it’s time to breathe the fresh air of the highlands. The Cameron Highlands is one of the highest points in Malaysia with beautiful tea plantations, green hills and crisp cool air.
The British used the highlands as their resort town in the colonial days and a lot of the buildings have stayed! The whole area feels like a little England and there are even fresh strawberries growing too!
We loved our time in the Cameron Highlands and wish we spent a few more days to just relax and drink tea. 2 days is definitely enough to see the main highlights and it’s a little tricky to get around unless you go on a tour or hire a scooter or bike.
How to get to the Cameron Highlands from Melaka
Getting to the Cameron Highlands from Melaka will be the longest travel day on this 2 week Malaysia itinerary. The best way to get there is by bus via Kuala Lumpur.
It will take around 2 hours to get from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur and around 4 hours from Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands. Luckily the buses in Malaysia are very comfortable!
If you have the time you can spend an extra night in Kuala Lumpur to break up the journeys or just leaving enough time between buses is also fine! Check for times and prices on 12Go , RedBus or EasyBook !
Things to do in the Cameron Highlands
Now on this 2 week Malaysia itinerary, we’re going to show you the best things to do in the Cameron Highlands if you have a few days. Some of these activities are best done on a tour which we’ll tell you about too!
If you’re staying in Tanah Rata, spend some time exploring the area and admiring the colonial buildings! This will be the best area to find food such as Singh Chapati (an Indian restaurant). There are also markets, outdoor shops and cafes!
BOH Tea Plantations & Cafe
The beautiful tea plantations are the best parts of the Cameron Highlands and there are a few different plantations around the area. The BOH Tea Plantations are the largest in the country and they have a lovely cafe at the top with views of the hills. The tea plantations were a highlight of our Malaysia itinerary!
Mossy Forest & Mount Brinchang
Another highlight in the Cameron Highlands is the Mossy Forest. An incredible old forest full of moss and viewpoints! It’s a pretty short but beautiful walk and there’s also an entrance fee.
Private vehicles aren’t allowed to drive to Mossy Forest, so you have to book a tour with a 4×4. We recommend Discover Camerons !
Jungle Trekking
In the Cameron Highlands, there are certain times of the year when you can go hiking for the Giant Rafflesia ! These flowers are very rare to find as they only bloom for around 5 days and take one year to grow!
There will be guides in Malaysia that know exactly what to look for when there’s a blooming opportunity. It’s still possible to hike the jungles of the Cameron Highlands all year round!
Pick Your Own Strawberries
It’s crazy to think that strawberries can grow in the Cameron Highlands, but we were so happy to find and eat them! You can pick your own strawberries at various farms in the area, here are a few:
- Big Red Strawberry Farm ( location )
- Raju’s Hill Strawberry Farm ( location )
- 200 Seeds Cafe & Farm ( location )
- Kasimanis Strawberry Farm ( location )
Bharat Tea Plantations
Another tea plantation to visit during your 2 weeks in Malaysia is the Bharat Tea Plantations! They allow visitors to walk around an area of the tea leaves for a small fee. There’s also a shop and cafe here overlooking the plantations. The views are amazing! We took so many photos here. It’s also less busy than the famous BOH plantations.
Best Tours in the Cameron Highlands
As the Cameron Highlands is a large area with lots of things to do, we recommend joining a half-day tour or renting a scooter. We actually did both during our trip and the half-day tour is definitely worth it!
The Mossy Forest is down a road that is banned from vehicles other than jeeps, so a tour is the only way to see it.
We booked a Cameron Highlands Half-Day Tour at the hostel we were staying at ( Bricks Backpackers Hostel ) and they booked us on a tour with Discover Camerons ! Here are the places we saw on this trip:
- BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre (free entry)
- BOH Cafe (tea from 4RM)
- Mossy Forest (entry fee: 30RM for internationals / 10RM for locals)
- Mount Brinchang Viewpoint (included in the Mossy Forest ticket)
Our guide was amazing and told us so much valuable information about the plantations and the highlands. We also met a few other travellers on the tour as we all shared a jeep! Find their details here – Discover Camerons Facebook & Bricks Backpacker Hostel
Where to stay in the Cameron Highlands
The best area to stay in the Cameron Highlands is Tanah Rata , followed by Brinchang and Ringlet .
Bricks Backpackers Hostel $ – We stayed here during our time in the Cameron Highlands and loved it! They have private rooms and dorms for a good price in the heart of Tanah Rata! – Find here on Booking.com !
Traveller Bunker Hostel $ – Another lovely hostel – Find here on Booking.com !
Alora Budget Inn $ – A cosy guesthouse near Tanah Rata – Find here on Booking.com !
Best Restaurants in the Cameron Highlands
- Singh Chapati $ – a tasty Indian restaurant ( location )
- The Lords Cafe $-$$ – serving tea & scones (no vegan cakes) ( location )
- Restoran Sri Brinchang $ – a South Indian restaurant ( location )
- Restoran Bunga Suria $ – another lovely Indian restaurant ( location )
If you love tea plantations, plan your next trip to Sri Lanka! Here’s our Ultimate 3 week Sri Lanka Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024) !
Day 9 – 11 | Ipoh
The next destination on our 2 week Malaysia itinerary is Ipoh, a city surrounded by limestone cliffs and beautiful temples.
Ipoh has a charming old town with a new town right around the corner. We think of Ipoh as a smaller version of Penang (which you’ll visit next on this Malaysia itinerary) with street art and colonial buildings.
We’re so glad that we visited Ipoh on our trip as it really felt different to the other cities. There was less tourism and fewer major things to do which meant we could explore the city more authentically. However, it’s not completely hidden from tourism in places such as Concubine Lane!
How to get to Ipoh from the Cameron Highlands
The best way to get to Ipoh from the Cameron Highlands is by bus ! Honestly, the buses are amazing in Malaysia. Check for times and prices on 12Go , RedBus or EasyBook !
The journey should take around 2 hours and the bus drops you off just outside of the city centre in Ipoh. Hop on a T30a bus that will take you to Old Town Ipoh, alternatively, you can use Grab .
There’s also a private day tour to Ipoh from Kuala Lumpur if you’re based in the capital city – book your trip here !
Things to do in Ipoh
We recommend spending 2 nights in Ipoh on your Malaysia itinerary to see the main highlights such as the old town, temples and nature. If you have more time in the city, you can head to a theme & water park for the day at Sunway Lost World Of Tambun or explore Tempurung Cave – find tickets on Klook here !
Concubine Lane
One of the best areas to see in Ipoh is Concubine Lane, also known as Panglima Lane. It’s in the heart of Old Town and hard to miss as you’ll find most visitors here! There are boutique shops, souvenirs and many different types of food! Ipoh is big on white coffee and Portuguese tarts!
You’ll also find the Time Tunnel Museum and a Funtasy Trick Art House here, but we didn’t get the time to visit these!
Mural Art’s Lane
In the New Town, you’ll find the Mural Art’s Lane – full of energetic art pieces embracing Malaysian culture! It’s a quiet street which makes the area very peaceful to explore and take in the murals. It’s a lovely area to visit if you’re wondering what to do in Malaysia.
Heritage Buildings in Ipoh
On your 2 week Malaysia itinerary, head to the Tourist Information Office and grab a map to follow the Ipoh Old Heritage Trail . There are so many old heritage buildings in Ipoh and if you don’t know where they are, you could honestly walk past them without realising! Here are a few that you can see whilst exploring Ipoh:
- Ipoh Railway Station
- Ipoh Town Hall
- Han Chin Pet Soo
- HSBC Building
- Birch Memorial Tower
Cave Temples
Ipoh also has some beautiful cave temples just outside the main city centre. The best way to reach them is by Grab or if you’re on a budget, there’s a local bus but there’s no official timetable at the bus station.
- Ling Sen Tong Temple
- Nam Thean Tong Temple
- Sam Poh Tong Temple
- Mystery Temple (through the cave of Sam Poh Tong Temple)
Our favourite temple was the Mystery Temple, purely because it’s so unique and hidden in a cave. We always wonder how temples are built in such interesting places.
All of the temples have their gardens, ponds and complex to explore and it’s the perfect way to spend a morning in Ipoh during your 2 week Malaysia itinerary!
We use a Joby GorillaPod to take photos of ourselves when there’s no one around! It’s small and lightweight so fits in our day bag! There’s even a Joby Phone Tripod too!
Tasik Cermin and Mirror Lake
Not too far away from the impressive cave temples is Tasik Cermin Park (Mirror Lake). There’s an entry fee to enter the park but inside is a beautiful lake surrounded by nature.
When we visited, there was a big thunderstorm and we were stuck in the heavy rain for a while, but the lake was so peaceful. It’s a lovely spot to see during your 2 weeks in Malaysia.
Street Murals in Old Town Ipoh
Alongside Mural Art’s Lane in New Town, there’s much more street art to find in the Old Town. We’ve tried our best to list the locations for all the art that’s worth finding and maybe some more will pop up too! Market Lane Murals are our favourite, so we’ve included a photo!
- Market Lane Murals 3D ( location here )
- Kids Riding a Paper Plane ( location here )
- Cheers! 3D ( location here )
- Old Town Relieves Nostalgia With Trishaw 3D ( location here )
- Parking Troubles Mural
- Old Uncle Drinking Coffee ( location here )
- Evolution ( location here )
Where to stay in Ipoh
The best area to stay in Ipoh is near the Old Town or New Town . Here are a few we can recommend:
The Brownstone Hostel $ – The best social hostel in Ipoh with dorms & private rooms – Find on Booking.com here !
City Hostel $ – We stayed here during our Ipoh trip as they offered the best prices at the time. The hostel is spread out by single rooms across one floor with an open ceiling with a shared kitchen in a separate room. It’s in a great location! – Find here on Booking.com !
The Tudor $$ – A lovely hotel with balconies & views – Find on Booking.com here !
Best Restaurants in Ipoh
- Sri Ananda Bahwan Restaurant $ – more Indian food in Little India ( location )
- Man Xiang Cun Vege Restaurant $ – amazing Chinese food near the temples ( location )
- Ninety-Six Vegetarian Food $ – delicious Chinese food in New Town Ipoh ( location )
- Tong Sui Kai Hawker Centre $ – many small restaurants with lots of options ( location )
Also check out our Krabi Itinerary: 3 Days in Krabi, Thailand !
Day 11 – 14 | Penang
Penang is one of the best places to visit during this 2 week Malaysia itinerary. We will always recommend visiting here on any Malaysia trip as Georgetown is so unique!
The city also has a well-connected airport so you can travel to or from various areas of Malaysia and other countries.
Penang is an island connected to the mainland via a bridge and is home to a vibrant old town, street murals, amazing nature and impressive views. George Town is the capital of Penang and the best place to base yourself whilst exploring the area.
How to get to Penang from the Cameron Highlands
The best way to get to Penang from the Cameron Highlands is by bus ! The journey will take around 3 hours and take you to George Town. Once arriving in George Town there is a local transport such as buses or Grab’s that can take you to your accommodation.
Check for times and prices on 12Go , RedBus or EasyBook !
Things to do in Penang
Penang is one of our favourite destinations in Malaysia and we recommend spending at least 3 days here to explore the historic old town and the hills, beaches and nature of Penang island.
Street Murals in George Town
It’s hard to walk around George Town and not stumble across an interesting piece of art. Quite a lot of them are 3D and you can sit or ‘interact’ with the murals. Penang is a very popular spot on this Malaysia itinerary, so there may be queues to take photos with the art.
Head out early if you prefer fewer crowds. The must-see murals are Little Children on a Bicycle , Boy on a Motorbike , Brother and Sister on a Swing and Love on Bicycle. Here are a few more that you can find throughout George Town.
- Hoola Hoop Basketball
- Love Me Like Your Fortune Cat
- Old Soy Milk Stall
- The Window Cat
- Reaching Up
- The Indian Boatman
Armenian Street
When hunting for street art, we came across Armenian Street – a street full of snacks and bike rentals! A popular snack to get in Penang is the flavoured ice ball and although we didn’t try one, we saw a lot of people with one!
Little India
A visit to Little India in George Town is a must for your Malaysia 2 week itinerary. The streets are vibrant and alive, especially in the evening. There’s great food everywhere, including Penang’s Famous Samosa! You can also find Hindu temples in Little India.
Want to explore George Town by tour? You can discover George Town on a Half Day City Tour with Klook! Book your tickets online here and meet other travellers whilst in Penang.
Clan Jetties
The Clan Jetties are wooden villages built over the water on the coast of Penang. Chew Jetty is the most popular jetty to visit and there are a few shops, restaurants and shows around.
People still live on these jetties, so it’s not best to explore all of them but you can see them from the waterfront. There’s even a Taoist Temple on one of them!
Kek Lok Si Temple
One of the most interesting temples we came across during our 2 weeks in Malaysia was Kek Lok Si Temple. It’s a whole temple complex with gardens, statues and of course temples.
The best way to get there is by bus or grab and from there, it’s easy to get to Penang Hill on the same day! It’s also free to enter the temple and there’s a great vegetarian restaurant there!
Penang Hill
The best views in Penang are from Penang Hill ! You can reach the top by a funicular or a steep hike. Although the hike is free, we chose to get the funicular which costs 30 RM for a return ticket. It’s quite expensive, considering the rest of Malaysia is pretty affordable!
At the top, we saw macaque monkeys! There are also a few trails to explore and cafes. One of the best things to do at Penang Hill is The Habitat , a nature walk high up in the trees. Get your tickets in advance here !
Batu Ferringhi Beach
This is the only beach on our 2 week Malaysia itinerary, which is wild because Malaysia does have some incredible beaches on various islands around the country.
If you’re spending some time in Penang, Batu Ferringhi Beach is worth visiting! It takes about 1 hour to get there by bus from George Town.
Even though it’s the most popular beach in Penang, we found it to be pretty quiet. There are multiple beach resorts, although not taking up the beach, volleyball and watersports!
Stay the night in Batu Ferringhi – Eden Cosy Living – Find on Booking.com here !
There are a few more things to do in Penang such as Penang Tropical Fruit Farm Guided Tour , Escape Theme Park and heading to the top of Penang’s tower – get your tickets here ! You can also take a Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion Tour in George Town.
Where to stay in Penang
The best place to stay in Penang is near George Town . If you’re more into the beach than the old history of Penang, Batu Ferringhi Beach is another area to stay, although it takes around 1 hour to reach George Town.
Dou Houz Georgetown $ – We stayed here for 4 nights in one of their private rooms. There are also dorms! – Find on Booking.com here !
Carnarvon House $ – Another affordable play to stay, with a beautiful interior! Find here on Booking.com !
Evergreen Laurel Hotel Penang $$ – This one includes a pool! – Find here on Booking.com !
Lost Paradise Resort $$ ( Batu Ferringhi )– A beautiful resort near the beaches – Find here on Booking.com !
Eden Cosy Living $ ( Batu Ferringhi )– A homestay next to the beaches in Penang – Find on Booking.com here !
Best Restaurants in Penang
- Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant $ – Incredible Indian Restaurant in Little India ( mark them on your map )
- Ee Beng Vegetarian Restaurant $ – Amazing ‘buffet’ Chinese food! ( here’s the location )
- Kek Lok Si Vegetarian Restaurant $-$$ – Next to Kek Lok Si Temple! ( find them here )
- Zhu Yuan Vegetarian Restaurant $ – Local Chinese Restaurant ( location here )
- SUPE Vegan $$ – Vegan Japanese food in George Town (here’s their Facebook )
2 week Malaysia Itinerary Breakdown
We’ve included two travel days in this Malaysia 2 week itinerary but there will be some travel time between all the destinations. The journey from Melaka to the Cameron Highlands will be the longest.
Kualar Lumpur – 3 days Melaka – 2 days Melaka to Cameron Highlands – 1 day Cameron Highlands – 2 days Ipoh – 2 days Ipoh to Penang – 1 day Penang – 3 days
We’re trying to be as honest as possible about how long the journeys can take between places! Sometimes travel days really knock us out and we want to rest for the evening!
More Places to Visit in Malaysia
Langkawi – This is a major destination that we’ve missed off our 2 week Malaysia itinerary. If you want to visit this lovely island on your way to Thailand, skip out Ipoh and minus a day in Melaka or Penang. You’ll then have 3 days to explore Langkawi during your 2 weeks in Malaysia.
We didn’t visit the islands as it was the wrong time of year and we weren’t continuing to Thailand as we actually flew into Penang and travelled to Kuala Lumpur (the reverse of this itinerary). We do recommend visiting if you’re a beach and nature lover!
Perhentian Islands – These are some of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia and it will take some time to reach them! The islands are chilled and laidback and have beautiful white sand beaches. They’re definitely on our list when we visit Malaysia in the future!
Taman Negara – This is one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests and a beautiful place to explore in Malaysia. It’s a bus ride away from Kuala Lumpur, so very easy to add to your 2 week Malaysia itinerary.
Borneo Island – Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and one of the best places to see wild orangutans, Bornean elephants and proboscis monkeys. The island is also home to two other countries, Brunei and Indonesia. It’s been on our list for years and we hope to make it there one day!
Head over to the Thai Islands after your 2 weeks in Malaysia for beautiful beaches and amazing Thai cuisine. Check out our – The Best 2 week South Thailand Itinerary (2024) !
How to get to Malaysia
If you’re heading to Malaysia from a country outside of Southeast Asia , it’s best to fly ! Kuala Lumpur will be the city to arrive in with the best flights and prices, it’s one of the best airports in the region. We flew from Bangkok to Penang which is another international airport in Malaysia.
There are buses and ferries from Thailand such as Koh Lipe to Langkawi and there are also buses from Singapore. Check times on 12Go here!
1 Week in Malaysia Itinerary
If you only have 1 week in Malaysia, we recommend landing in the capital city, Kuala Lumpur and travelling across the mainland to Penang, passing through the beautiful Cameron Highlands on the way.
Kuala Lumpur | 1 – 3 Cameron Highlands | 3 – 5 Penang | 5 – 7
More than 2 weeks in Malaysia
With more than 2 weeks in Malaysia, you can explore other areas of this wonderful country. Follow this 2 week Malaysia itinerary and add on the island of Borneo or Langkawi.
We recommend spending at least 1 week in Borneo, 3 days in Langkawi and 3 days in the Perhentian Islands.
2 Weeks in Malaysia Budget
Malaysia is a very affordable country to travel around and we recommend budgeting around £30 a day. This will include accommodation, travel days, food and any activities. Depending on the accommodation, some days will be more and less. We spent less than £30 a day each.
Here are a few estimates that we noted down as we explored this 2 week Malaysia itinerary:
- Accommodation: from £12 / RM66
- Food : around £2 to £4 per meal / RM11 to RM22
- Bus Journeys : around RM20 (around £3.60)
- Grab Journeys : around RM10 (around £1.80)
- Activities : RM25 (around £5)
Prices of our bus journeys in Malaysia: Penang to Ipoh – RM20, Ipoh to the Cameron Highlands – RM 25, the Cameron Highlands to Kuala Lumpur – RM40, Kuala Lumpur to Melaka – RM15, Melaka to Kuala Lumpur – RM10.
Food in Malaysia
Malaysia is a food paradise ! It’s one of our favourite countries for food purely because of the variety! The country is incredibly diverse with large Malay, Chinese and Indian communities. This means there’s amazing food all over and lots of new dishes to try!
During your 2 week Malaysia itinerary, you have to try Nasi Lemak – Malaysia’s National dish! You can find these dishes all over Malaysia as well as Roti Canai . Local restaurants are often open from 6 am which means they’re great for breakfast or lunch.
We fell in love with the Chinese buffet-style restaurants where you fill up a plate full of rice, veggies and protein and pay by weight. We ate this style of food throughout our 2 weeks in Malaysia with plenty of curries and dosa in between ( thank you Indian and Chinese cuisine )!
Malay food seems to be more meat-heavy than Chinese and Indian, so sadly we didn’t get to try a lot of Malaysian dishes as we eat plant-based.
Travel Essentials for a Kuala Lumpur Itinerary
- Stainless Steel Water Bottle – Bring a bottle and fill it up at filtered water machines throughout Malaysia. Some of them are free!
- Eono Packing Cubes – These packing cubes are essential for our travels!
- The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel – Great for beaches, hostels or rooftop pools!
- Rain Mac in a Bag and a Backpack Cover are two more essentials we need in rainy weather!
- Anker Power Bank – Keep your phone charged during long bus journeys.
- Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit – We love our Joby GorillaPod and use it with our Sony A600 . There’s also a Joby Phone Tripod !
Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! – SafetyWing Nomad Insurance
SafetyWing is a very flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world including Malaysia. Find out more here!
Is Malaysia worth visiting?
Malaysia is definitely worth visiting! Malaysia is one of our favourite Southeast Asian countries . The food is amazing (even for vegans or vegetarians), it’s easy to get around by bus, it’s budget-friendly and there’s a range of different activities!
Malaysia’s nature is incredible, the cities are beautiful and there’s always somewhere new to explore.
The islands are so underrated compared to the nearby popular Thai Islands . They’re not too touristy yet although a lot of the country is set up for tourism for Malaysians. Add Malaysia to your Southeast Asia itinerary !
Check out our other Malaysia Posts :
- We also have posts about Thailand , The Philippines , Sri Lanka , South Korea & more!
- Or browse our travel blog for more inspiration!
That’s the end of our 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary (Mainland): Best Things To Do ! Have fun in the capital of Malaysia and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!
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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.
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DESTINATIONS , ASIA , MALAYSIA , SOLO LOCATION GUIDES , SOLO TRAVEL
Solo travel in malaysia: the ultimate guide.
Solo travel in Malaysia is a joy.
This underrated jewel of a country offers a diversity of cultures and landscapes and has a rich historical heritage. Furthermore, it is relatively safe for female solo travellers to explore on their own.
Discover how to travel alone in Malaysia with expert tips and a relaxed 2-week itinerary that showcases some of this diverse & distinctive country. This article is also packed with useful practical information, including how to get around Malaysia, where to stay, what to eat and solo travel safety tips.
Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .
IN THIS ARTICLE
What is the Best Month to Visit Malaysia?
There best time of the year to visit Malaysia will depend on where you are in the country.
The best time of year to visit Western (Peninsular) Malaysia is in the dry season between November and February .
Peninsular Malaysia can get busy during the dry season, and especially around the Chinese New Year (usually late January to mid-February).
Prices are lower and crowds are fewer between March and June, although you are likely to see some rain.
To escape the monsoon season, you should t ravel to Eastern Malaysia between March and September
What Are the Best Places in Malaysia for Solo Travellers?
Broadly speaking, if you only have two weeks to spare, you will need to make the choice between Eastern or Western (Peninsular) Malaysia.
Bearing in mind the size of the country, you won’t want to spread yourself too thin, pinging from one place to the next. Also, the weather patterns favour east and west at different times of the year.
So what floats your boat holiday-wise?
Peninsular Malaysia is more developed, and more touristed, and boasts the capital, Kuala Lumpur, along with other popular destinations, including Melaka and Penang.
By contrast, Eastern Malaysia is quieter and may appeal to your more adventurous nature. This side of the country features white sand-fringed islands that offer sensational diving off their shores, and the jungles of Borneo.
How to Get to Malaysia
Most travellers arrive in Malaysia by air .
Its main international gateway is Kuala Lumpur (KUL), which is also a major regional hub. In addition, Penang and Langkawi have domestic and international airports. To the east, the main hubs are Kuching, Miri and Kota Kinabalu.
You can cross into Malaysia by land from Singapore, Thailand, Brunei and Indonesia. Kuala Lumpur is connected by rail to Singapore and Bangkok (via Butterworth).
By sea, boats and ferries connect Malaysia with Singapore, Thailand, Brunei Indonesia and The Philippines.
Cruise ships also visit Malaysia’s ports.
Getting Around Malaysia
Travelling around Malaysia is easy; public transport is inexpensive and reliable.
Although the most commonly used options for getting around Peninsular Malaysia are buses, minivan and budget flights, there is also a limited railway network.
Popular routes are served by multiple bus companies. This plethora of operators means that fares are cheap and departures are frequent.
You can usually just turn up and buy a ticket for the next departure. Each company in a Malaysian bus station will have its own booth.
I love train travel and recommend the train journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (for George Town, Penang). Western Malaysia’s intercity train service is operated by KTM.
A 2-Week Malaysia Itinerary for Solo Travellers
This 2-week Malaysia itinerary starts and ends in the capital city Kuala Lumpur and also includes three of the most popular west coast destinations: Melaka, George Town on Penang Island and Langkawi Island.
For each destination, I have included the best places to visit, how to get there and where to stay.
What about the Cameron Highlands?
Intentionally, this is a relaxed 2-week Malaysia itinerary. However, you can squeeze more in.
An obvious addition is the Cameron Highlands, the inland region of Malaysia known for its tea plantations, hiking trails and strawberry farms.
For me, this was one stop too many. Nonetheless, adding it to this itinerary is entirely feasible, albeit resulting in a faster-paced two weeks.
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur (overnight stay)
Many overnight flights from Europe land in Kuala Lumpur in the evening. If Melaka is the first stop on your itinerary, it makes sense to travel to stay overnight near Kuala Lumpur International Airport rather than in the city centre before you make tracks for Melaka.
The restorative power of a good kip and a hot shower after a long flight is not to be underestimated!
Where to stay near Kuala Lumpur Airport
There are slim pickings of standard hotels close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The only hotel that is walkable from the airport terminal is the Sama Sama Hotel.
An alternative option is one of the transit hotels at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The cost will depend on the number of hours that you will be occupying a room, and many offer rates up to 12 hours, which is enough for an overnight stay.
Before booking a transit hotel check at which terminal your plane arrives.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport has two terminals : KLIA which serves most international flights from full-service carriers and KLIA2 which serves low-cost carriers.
Splurge : Sama Sama Hotel | BOOK A ROOM
I stayed in this modern and spacious 5-star hotel with high levels of customer service, which is joined to the main terminal building by a covered footbridge. But if you are feeling weary after your flight, an orange buggy will also drop you at the hotel’s entrance.
Highly recommended (and not just because they upgraded my room on arrival).
To save money, consider somewhere near the airport. Here are some hotels near Kuala Lumpur International Airport that I have found that might also be suitable:
Mid-range : Movenpick Hotel | BOOK A ROOM
Offering better value for money, this is also a 5-star hotel but is a ten-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. However, the hotel does provide an hourly free shuttle bus.
Budget : the youniQ Hotel | BOOK A ROOM
This budget option is a 15-minute drive from the airport and offers dorm beds and private rooms. It also provides an airport transfer service for a small charge.
Malaysia Itinerary Day 2 & 3: Melaka
Why visit melaka.
Visit Melaka for its beautifully preserved historic centre , with its kaleidoscope of architectural styles, the lively Jonker Walk weekend night market and psychedelic trishaws.
What we see today is thanks to Melaka’s rich history .
One of the oldest cities on the Straits of Malacca, the city started life as a fishing village founded by a Sumatran Hindu prince in the 14th Century. Over the subsequent six centuries, it passed through the hands of the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British before gaining independence in 1946.
Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008, Melaka’s historic centre is a jumble of restored Chinese shophouses cradled between Portuguese, British and Dutch buildings. Be warned; it can be ridiculously busy, particularly at weekends.
How to get to Melaka
- There is a direct bus from Kuala Lumpur airport. The journey takes around three hours. Buses also depart from Kuala Lumpur’s chaotic central bus station.
- Although not necessary, you can book your bus ticket in advance here.
What to see in Melaka
Jonker Street
Once renowned for its antique shops, Jonker Street today is home to restaurants, clothing and craft shops. It comes alive at the weekend when it is the scene for a hugely popular night market, selling all manner of things that you need, as well as things that you didn’t realise you needed until you strolled amongst its stalls.
Aside from its retail and culinary opportunities, this is a fascinating area to wander through
Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum
The Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum was one of my Melaka highlights.
A guided tour of this wonderfully restored townhouse takes you back to 19th Century Melaka. The museum houses an exquisite collection of traditional furniture and is arranged to resemble a typical Baba-Nonya residence.
Nyonya Baba or Peranakan people are descendants of Chinese immigrants who came to Malaysia in the 15th century. Nyona refers to the Peranakan women; Baba refers to the Peranakan men.
Christ Church Melaka
Built by the Dutch to commemorate the capture of Melaka from the Portuguese, this 18th Century Melaka landmark is one of the most photographed sites in the city.
Avoid the crowds by visiting Christ Church early in the day.
You can visit Christ Church Melaka from Monday to Saturday.
Stadthuys Melaka
Adjacent to Christ Church is the cerise town hall and governor’s residence.
Today, this houses the History & Ethnography Museum , exploring the history of Melaka through the lives of the ethnic groups living in the city.
Melaka or Malacca?
You will sometimes see Melaka referred to as Malacca, the Anglicised spelling of the state’s, and city’s, name. Officially, it is Melaka.
How to get around Melaka
- Melaka’s compact size makes it easily walkable. However, if you are feeling weary why not take a ride on one of the city’s psychedelic trishaws? Agree on a price before setting off.
- You can also hire a bike to get around.
Where to stay in Melaka
As Melaka is awash with accommodation choices, you are unlikely to struggle to find somewhere to rest your head.
If you want to be in the thick of things, concentrate your search around Jonker Street. As there are some really nice hotels at affordable rates, this is a good place to treat yourself.
Mid-range : Jonker Boutique Hotel | BOOK A ROOM
I stayed at this 3-star hotel, in the centre of the action on Jonker Street. Don’t expect luxury, but this is a characterful property which had super-friendly staff.
Here are some other hotels in Melaka that I have found that may suit other tastes and budgets:
Splurge : The Majestic | BOOK A ROOM
This 5-star hotel looks glorious inside and out. Housed in a heritage building dating back to 1920, and set along the banks of Melaka River, it has garnered rave reviews.
Budget : Yote 28 | BOOK A ROOM
As the price of accommodation in Melaka is low, you may not have to consider cheaper options. But if you are looking for a budget choice, this hostel has excellent online reviews and is a 10-minute walk from Jonker Street.
--> None of these accommodation choices take your fancy? Search for other great places to stay in Melaka here.
Day 4 & 5: Kuala Lumpur
Head back to Kuala Lumpur on day four of your 2-week Malaysia itinerary.
Why visit Kuala Lumpur?
Initially, Kulala Lumpur’s scale and its frantic pace can be overwhelming. However, give it a day or so and this vibrant metropolis will win you over.
The cultural diversity of Kuala Lumpur is striking. Ethnic Malays, Chinese prospectors, British colonial rulers and Indian immigrants have all left their mark on Malaysia’s capital city.
KL is all about contrast . Hindu temples and mosques rub shoulders with gleaming shopping malls, the 21st-century cathedrals of consumerism. Cafes offering foam-topped lattés and wi-fi sit cheek-to-jowl with streetside hawker stalls.
How to get from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur
From Melaka, catch the bus to Kuala Lumpur’s central bus station (KL Central) and then connect to the metro to complete your journey.
Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur
Petronas Towers
The iconic Petronas Twin Towers are a must-see in Kuala Lumpur. Once the world’s tallest buildings – they lost that crown to Taipei 101 in Taiwan 2004 – I recommend visiting them inside and out.
As visiting the Petronas Towers is very popular, buy tickets online in advance. Note that they are closed to visitors on Mondays.
>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR PETRONAS TOWERS TICKET
Try to visit the Petronas Towers late afternoon to watch the sunset and witness Kulala Lumpur light up below you. It’s a magical experience.
To admire them from the outside, head to KLCC Park, right behind the towers. or enjoy the view over a cocktail at the Traders Hotel Skybar.
KL Bird Park
Home to over 200 species of birds, swooping beneath a massive canopy, KL Bird Park was an unexpected delight. Watch out for the peacocks strutting their stuff.
Islamic Arts Museum
After visiting KL Bird Park, stop by Kuala Lumpur’s outstanding Islamic Arts Museum . As well as housing an astonishing collection of Islamic decorative arts, its gift shop is also a good place to pick up tasteful gifts.
Merdeka Square
The colonial heart of Kuala Lumpur, Merdeka Square is fringed by handsome heritage buildings. Back in the British era, the square was used as a cricket pitch (the Padang ), and it is also where independence was declared in 1957.
Fill your face with tasty rice and noodles and then go temple-hopping in Chinatown. For its vibrancy, and for timing my visit with a wedding celebration, my favourite was the Hindu temple of Sri Mahamariamman .
But a close second was Sin Sze Si Ya , the oldest Chinese temple in Kuala Lumpur, with its serene atmosphere.
The Batu Caves is the most popular day trip from Kuala Lumpur.
This complex of limestone caves 13 km north of Kuala Lumpur, houses Hindu temples that have been a pilgrimage site for more than 120 years. They are joyously colourful.
Batu Caves are free to visit.
The easiest way to reach Batu Caves from Kuala Lumpur is by the direct KTM Seremban train from KL Sentral. The total journey is about 30 minutes and a one-way cash ticket costs RM2.30 (December 2022 price – check current KTM Komuter fares here).
Alternatively, take an inexpensive organised tour from Kuala Lumpur. Here are a few that will fit the bill and that also offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance if your plans change.
This very affordable half-day tour includes pick-up from your accommodation in KL and a guide.
>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR
Private Batu Cave, National Mosque & Religious Tour
This 5-hour tour includes lunch in Little India.
Private tour to Genting Highland & Batu Caves
This full-day tour includes a scenic ride on Genting Skyway, Southeast Asia’s fastest and longest cable car and Malaysia’s only casino resort.
How to get around Kuala Lumpur
- Thanks to its integrated transport system, it is easy to get around Kuala Lumpur. The city’s trains and buses connect through the central station, KL Sentral.
- Although you can buy single tickets at machines and counters, if you are in the city for a few days it is worth your while getting a Touch & Go card . Similar to London’s Oyster Card, this allows you to travel around Kuala Lumpur with ease and you also benefit from lower prices.
- Here’s further information on using Kuala Lumpur’s public transport .
- Taxis are also a good option and are plentiful and relatively cheap
Organised day tours in Kuala Lumpur
Alternatively, why not consider joining an organised day trip?
If you are pressed for time or need to gain confidence in navigating a city, they can be an excellent option. As a solo traveller, this is also an excellent way to meet people whilst away.
Here are a few from GetYourGuide , my go-to platform that offers a wide choice of affordable excursions with extremely generous cancellation terms:
Kuala Lumpur Half-Day City Tour
Get the lay of the land with this 3-hour tour.
Cameron Highlands Day Tour from Kuala Lumpur
This Malaysia itinerary does not include the Cameron Highlands. But if you would like to visit the popular tea-growing area of the country, this day trip from KL is an excellent option.
Kuala Lumpur Street Food Night Tour
An excellent activity for foodies. This private tour includes tastings, a local guide and a visit to a night market
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
As Kuala Lumpur is an enormous city, and each of its districts has its distinct identity and its pros and cons, choosing where to stay can feel like a Herculean task.
On balance, Bukit Bitang and KLCC, in the shadow of the Petronas Twin Towers, are good bets. Both districts are centrally located and have good transport links and dining options.
I chose to stay in KLCC , which is the least busy of the two and close to the city’s landmarks.
As a solo traveller, safety is important to me and walking around KLCC at night always felt safe. However, as home to many of Kuala Lumpur’s luxury hotels, sleeping in KLCC is not cheap.
Bukit Bitang offers accommodation options to suit all budgets and is home to Jalan Alor , Kuala Lumpur’s hawker stall heaven.
If you are looking for budget accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown is brimming with cheap hotels and hostels.
Splurge : Shangri-La Hotel | BOOK A ROOM
This is possibly my favourite hotel ever! The Shangri-La’s faultless customer service sets them a notch above other 5-star hotels.
It’s worth splashing out on a Horizon Club Executive King room. This includes day-long access to the Club Lounge which offered fantastic evening cocktails with canapés and afternoon tea.
Here are some other hotels in Kuala Lumpur that I have found that may suit other budgets:
Mid-range : The Robertson Kuala Lumpur by White Forest Suites | BOOK A ROOM
These 4-star apartments in Bukit Bintang have superb reviews and are excellent value.
Budget : The Bed KLCC | BOOK A ROOM
This centrally-located capsule hotel offers a variety of rooms at bargain prices. Travellers’ reviews are excellent.
>>> None of these accommodation choices take your fancy? Search for other great places to stay in Kuala Lumpur here.
Day 6 – 9: George Town, Penang
You are almost at the halfway point of your two weeks in Malaysia and the next stop on your itinerary is gorgeous George Town in Penang.
Why visit George Town, Penang?
Cultural diversity is Penang’s calling card. Visit George Town, Penang’s main city, for this cultural mix, a vibrant street art scene and fantastic food .
How to get to Penang
- For a chance to ride on a section of the iconic route from Singapore to Bangkok, take the train from KL to Butterworth station. It’s cheap, relaxing and takes around five hours. From Butterworth station, it’s a short and scenic ferry ride to Penang.
- A non-stop bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang will take around the same time and is also inexpensive.
- Penang is also served by domestic flights which land at its airport , 18km south of George Town.
The best things to do in George Town, Penang
Explore George Town’s architecture
The UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town has unparalleled architecture. Romantically dilapidated Chinese shopfronts rub shoulders with British colonial buildings, Hindu temples and mosques.
The best way to explore the historic heart of George Town is to simply stroll along its streets.
Visit The Blue Mansion (Cheong Fatt Tze)
This striking mansion, built in the 1880s, is one of the few surviving examples of the architectural style favoured by the wealthy Straits Chinese. East meets West with art nouveau stained glass, elaborate floor tiles and louvred windows.
Visit the Blue Mansion on one of their daily 45-minute guided tours.
Visit George Town’s clan houses and clan jetties
Clan houses, known locally as kongsi , grace George Town’s streets and jetties.
Explore George Town’s street art
Today’s George Town is all about street art. Take a self-guided walking tour of the city’s vibrant street art scene to hunt down work by the renowned Lithuanian artist, Zacharevic .
Eat some of the best food in Asia
George Town is hawker stall heaven.
Malaysians take their food very seriously, and the stalls in George Town serve some of the best street food that you will eat in Asia. The sheer variety and quality of food attract visitors from home and abroad.
How to get around George Town, Penang
As Penang’s sights are close together, it is easy to get around on foot.
Organised excursions from George Town, Penang
If you are looking for something that is more structured or a little bit different, check out these organised excursions from George Town.
George Town Half-Day Tour
Let someone else take care of the arrangements for you and join this tour of George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
>>> BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE
3-Hour Heritage Tour with Trishaw Ride
Discover Penang and its heritage from the comfort of a trishaw on this private tour.
Where to stay in George Town, Penang
George Town is awash with accommodation options to suit all budgets, from backpacker joints to luxury hotels. Some of these choices, even those in the lower price brackets, are in characterful heritage buildings in the heart of George Town.
Splurge : Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang | BOOK A ROOM
I splurged on this all-suite, historic 5-star hotel, which is the embodiment of old-world glamour. Since its inauguration in 1885, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel has welcomed such luminaries as Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Noel Coward and Somerset Maugham.
However, the Eastern & Oriental is not the most centrally located hotel in George Town.
Here are some other hotels in George Town that I have found that may suit other budgets .
Mid-range : Campbell House | BOOK A ROOM
A superb boutique hotel in the heart of George Town
Budget : Wifi Boutique Hotel | BOOK A ROOM
This centrally-located budget hotel has great reviews. All rooms have air-con and private bathrooms.
>>> None of these accommodation choices take your fancy? Search for other great places to stay in Penang here.
Day 10 – 13: Langkawi
Ten days into your 2-week Malaysia itinerary and it’s time for a little R&R. Welcome to the paradise island of Langkawi.
Why visit Langkawi?
To kick back on a perfect white sand beach. After travelling around Malaysia for nearly two weeks you deserve some relaxation.
How to get to Langkawi
You can get to Langkawi by ferry or plane.
I reached Langkawi by ferry from Penang . This journey takes around three hours. As of December 2022, this service remains suspended because of Covid restrictions.
Flights between Penang and Langkawi take 35 minutes.
What to do on Langkawi
Relax on one of Langkawi’s spectacular beaches
Let’s face it. This is the primary reason to include Langkawi in a 2-week Malaysia itinerary.
Just relax on a blindingly white sand beach, under the shade of a palm tree. With a cocktail in hand, of course.
Walk across the Langkawi Sky Bridge
Spoiler alert. You do need a head for heights to walk across the Langkawi Sky Bridge.
I don’t and made it only 20 meters across the bridge before having to turn back.
To reach the Langkawi Sky Bridge, take the cable car to the top of Gunung Mat Chinchang . But even if you are not able to pluck up the courage to step onto this 125-metre-long pedestrian suspension bridge, you will still be treated to sweeping views of Langkawi’s rainforests and islets.
The Langkawi cable car operates daily except for public holidays. The entrance is in the Oriental Village near Pantai Kok.
How to get around Langkawi
- As Langkawi does not have public transport, a taxi is your best bet.
- Hiring a motorcycle is another option.
Organised day tours on Langkawi
Given the lack of public transport on Langkawi, an organised day trip is worth considering. Here are a few that are worth checking out.
Langkawi Island Hopping Tour
This half-day tour takes you to three of Langkawi’s most beautiful islands: Dayang Bunting, Singa Besar, and Beras Basah.
Langkawi Mangrove Safari Boat Tour
Explore the mangroves of Langkawi on this 4-hour boat safari with the help of a guide.
Where to stay on Langkawi
Popular Pantai Cenang beach has a wide range of Langkawi hotels to suit most budgets, and is lively compared with other areas of the island. I chose a hotel in the quieter spot of Pantai Kok , 15 minutes from Langkawi Airport and close to the Langkawi Cable Car.
If you want to splash the cash on super-luxury hotels, head to Datai Bay .
Splurge : Berjaya Langkawi Resort | BOOK A ROOM
Hotels on Langkawi can carry a hefty price tag. To me, this hotel offered the best value for the quality of accommodation.
The price tag varies enormously with the location of the room. Whereas the rainforest rooms represent affordable luxury, albeit rather gloomy, be prepared to blow your budget on one perched over the water on stilts.
Here are some other hotels on Langkawi that I have found that may suit other budgets .
Mid-range : The Smith House | BOOK A ROOM
Less than a mile from Langkawi Airport, The Smith House has garnered rave reviews. This Pantai Cenang hotel features a rooftop pool and is a 20-minute walk into town.
Budget : Kapal Terbang Guest House | BOOK A ROOM
Also located in Pantai Cenang, this budget option offers rooms or holiday homes with self-catering facilities.
>>> None of these accommodation choices take your fancy? Search for other great places to stay on Langkawi here.
Day 14: Kuala Lumpur
Your two weeks in Malaysia finish where it began, in Kuala Lumpur.
Why visit Kuala Lumpur (again)?
A pre-return flight stay and to take in the sights you may have missed at the start of your 2 weeks in Malaysia.
Getting from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur
The best way of getting from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur is by plane. I flew with Malaysian Airlines.
Check air schedules and fares here.
Money in Malaysia
Malaysia’s currency is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR) . The brightly coloured notes make each denomination a breeze to identify.
Although the Malaysian ringgit is divided into 100 sen (cents) with coins in 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 sen denominations, prices are often rounded to the nearest ringgit. Instead of coins, you might get a sweet as change.
You can withdraw money from Malaysian ATMs . Unlike Thailand, there is no local charge for doing this. At most, the transaction is subject to a modest fee.
Although credit cards are accepted in more upscale restaurants and hotels, don’t rely on them as your sole source of payment.
Tipping is not expected in Malaysia. However, this may be expected at more upscale establishments and service charges may be levied on bills at luxury hotels and smart restaurants.
What to Eat in Malaysia
Welcome to foodie heaven! See how many different dishes you can try during your two weeks in Malaysia.
Here are a few to whet your appetite.
- Mee goreng mamak – An irresistible marriage of yellow noodles, beef or chicken, prawns and vegetables tossed in soy sauce with a hint of chilli.
- Nasi lemak – rice cooked in coconut milk with variations on a side order of egg, peanuts, vegetables, cucumber, meat curry, seafood and sambal (chilli-based sauce).
- Nasi kerabu – Blue rice anyone? Served with fried chicken, egg, and fried keropok (crackers).
- Rendang – Beef, chicken or lamb slowly simmered in coconut milk and spices.
- Laksa – This spicy noodle soup is one of Malaysia’s greatest exports.
- Roti canai – A Malaysian street food staple of light flatbread served with three different dipping sauces.
Is Malaysia Safe for Female Solo Travellers?
Malaysia is not only one of the best destinations in Asia for female solo travellers , but also one of the best countries in the world to travel alone . This is even the case if you are taking your first solo vacation .
Like any major city, petty theft, and especially bag-snatching, can be an issue in KL. Take the same precautions as you would in your home city.
Don’t make yourself a target. Walk confidently and with purpose, be careful with your belongings, especially smartphones and laptops, and leave your diamond necklace at home. Watch your bag and your belongings and be street-smart.
Trust your instincts. Take a taxi when this is a safer option. Seek local knowledge on the safety of areas.
However, like many other countries in the world, there is a threat of terrorism in Malaysia. Be vigilant and monitor local media.
Due to militant activity by the Islamic group Abu Sayyaf, who operate from the southern Philippines, there is a threat to foreigners of kidnapping and criminality on the eastern coast of Sabah, and in particular the islands close to the Sulu Archipelago in the southern Philippines.
To seek further information on safe travelling in Malaysia, check out the advice issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs.
Do you want some expert tips for staying safe as a solo traveller? If so, check out these essential safety tips for travelling alone .
Visiting Malaysia on an Organised Tour
Malaysia is a relatively easy country to explore independently. However, if you want to fit in a lot in a short space of time or are nervous about going it alone, why not consider joining a group tour?
As well as being a relatively hassle-free way of travelling, there are many other benefits of a group tour as a solo traveller. You’ll have an expertly curated itinerary and you often gain valuable insights into the country, the people and its culture.
Generally, there’s safety in numbers. Finally, if you fear solo travel loneliness , there’s the reassurance of ready-made travel companions.
There are lots of group travel companies out there but two companies that I have used and can recommend are Exodus Travels and Explore Worldwide!
Malaysia: Suggested Reading
Finally, do you want to learn a little bit more about the country? Here’s my pick of books to read either before your 2 weeks in Malaysia or whilst you are there.
The Ghost Bride (Yangsze Choo)
A great introduction to the city of Melaka, this is a historical novel with a supernatural twist. Set in the dying years of the 19th Century, this chronicles the central character’s experience as a ‘ghost bride’ to the recently deceased son of a rich family.
>>> CHECK PRICE HERE
The Gift of Rain (Tan Twan Eng)
A companion to your few days in Penang, this 2009 novel is set in George Town before and during the Second World War. It’s a tale of the conflicting loyalties of the central character, Phillip Hutton, an Anglo-Chinese member of a powerful trading family.
The Concubine’s Child (Carol Jones)
This interesting dual timeline, multi-generational novel set in Kuala Lumpur tells the stories of Yu Lan, a 16-year-old concubine, and her great-grandson.
Why You Should Visit Malaysia as a Solo Traveller
My view is that Malaysia is often wrongly overlooked by those travelling alone.
Although it lacks the big-hitting tourist attractions of other Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand, it does offer an enticing mix of city life, colonial towns and beach bliss. Add to this a compelling cultural diversity, welcoming people and fantastic food and you have the perfect recipe for a great trip.
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.
2 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Malaysia: The Ultimate Guide ”
I thought Malaysia was closed to tourists
Yes. This post was first written a few years ago.
Comments are closed.
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Places to Visit in Malaysia
Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur
Penang's street art, george town, langkawi's sky bridge, cameron highlands, taman negara national park.
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Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a captivating blend of diverse cultures, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. From bustling urban centers to pristine beaches and ancient rainforests, Malaysia offers a tapestry of experiences that will enchant any traveler. Let's embark on an in-depth journey to discover the incredible places that make Malaysia a must-visit destination for every wanderlust-filled soul.
Our journey begins amidst the glittering skyline of Kuala Lumpur, where the Petronas Towers stand as a testament to Malaysia's modernity. These gleaming twin towers, once the tallest in the world, are more than just architectural marvels; they are a symbol of the nation's economic prowess and ambition. Ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city or take a leisurely stroll through the adjacent KLCC Park, an urban oasis offering a serene escape from the bustling city life.
Venture north to the UNESCO World Heritage city of George Town, where the vibrant street art narrates the tale of Malaysia's rich cultural heritage. The narrow alleys and quaint corners are adorned with murals that seamlessly blend historical elements with contemporary flair. As you explore the charming streets, the aroma of local delicacies wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in Penang's renowned street food scene.
Leave the mainland and head west to Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands. Perched high above the lush rainforest, Langkawi's Sky Bridge is an engineering marvel that offers breathtaking vistas of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. The journey to the bridge itself is an adventure, involving a cable car ride that provides a stunning preview of the natural beauty that awaits at the top.
Escape the tropical heat by ascending to the cool, mist-covered hills of Cameron Highlands. This verdant region is dotted with tea plantations, strawberry farms, and colorful flower gardens. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the highlands, take guided tours of the tea estates, and relish the crisp mountain air while savoring freshly brewed local teas.
Embark on a journey to Taman Negara National Park, the oldest rainforest in the world. The dense jungles teem with biodiversity, offering adventurous travelers the opportunity to trek through ancient foliage, cross hanging bridges, and witness rare wildlife in their natural habitat. Taman Negara is a haven for nature lovers, promising an immersive experience in the heart of Malaysia's ecological wonders.
Malaysia, with its kaleidoscope of experiences, beckons travelers to explore its wonders. Whether you seek cultural immersion, natural beauty, or thrilling adventures, this Southeast Asian gem has something for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to uncover the enchanting allure of Malaysia.
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5 great budget-friendly places to visit during spring break in Fayetteville
Schools and colleges throughout Fayetteville typically have spring break during the weeks of March 18, March 25 or April 1.
Make the most of your spring break by checking out these fun and affordable activities to do in the city during your week off.
Best 5 Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in Fayetteville
1. cape fear botanical garden.
Established in 1989, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden , at 536 N. Eastern Blvd, in Fayetteville, spans 80 acres of natural beauty, nestled between the Cape Fear River and Cross Creek, two miles from downtown Fayetteville.
The garden has several events in the coming days.
• March 21: The Family Art Night: Fantastical Succulent Dishes event allows participants to work together to craft centerpieces from different succulents and materials.
Time: 6-7:30 p.m.
Cost: $40 per family and preregistration is required.
• March 28: The Outdoor Excursion and Succulent Terrarium Craft event treats guests to a hike through the gardens and a crafts project to take home as a memento.
Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Cost: General admission cost is $40 and $35 for garden members. Preregistration is required.
• March 21, March 28 and April 4 : Yoga in the Garden will have anyone feeling refreshed and limber after enjoying the outdoors surrounded by diverse botany.
Time: 6-7 p.m.
Cost: Yoga classes are included with the cost of admission ($10) or membership ($50).
2. Cape Fear River Trail
The Cape Fear River Trail is a 10-foot wide, paved route designed for pedestrians, joggers, cyclists and other users of non-motorized modes of transport. Stretching over 7 miles one way, the path takes you through a landscape of trees, foliage and wildlife, offering stunning vistas of the river.
Address: 511 Sherman Drive.
Time: The park is open from 8 a.m. to dusk.
Cost: Free.
3. Cape Fear Regional Theatre
Starting March 21 and running until April 7, "The Play That Goes Wrong" is available at Cape Fear Regional Theatre. In the Cornley Drama Society's newest production, "The Murder at Haversham Manor," events quickly take a turn for the worse. This accident-prone play has actors battling against all odds to make it to the final curtain call.
Address: 1209 Hay St., Fayetteville.
Time: Varies depending on the day, but most shows begin at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets range from $15 to $28.
4. Fascinate-U Children’s Museum
Working families who need childcare during spring break or kids eager to have a camp experience should look into the Spring Break Camps offered at Fascinate-U Children's Museum. From April 1-5, elementary-aged children are welcome to join the Ready, Set...Bloom! camp program. There is one group for children in grades kindergarten through second grade, and one group for third through fifth graders.
Address: 116 Green St., Fayetteville.
Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: $175 per child. Members get $15 off per child.
5. Mazarick Park
This multi-purpose park features picnic shelters, a playground, a disc golf course, tennis courts, a baseball field and a lake with paved trails for bikers and walkers. Picnic areas are first come, first served unless reserved in advance. With a state fishing license, patrons can fish off the Glenville Lake Pier.
Address: 1400 Belvedere Ave.
Time: 8 a.m.-dusk.
Reporter Lizmary Evans covers growth and development for The Fayetteville Observer. You can reach her at [email protected]
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Places to Visit in Malaysia
Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur
Penang's street art, george town, langkawi's sky bridge, cameron highlands, taman negara national park.
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Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a captivating blend of diverse cultures, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. From bustling urban centers to pristine beaches and ancient rainforests, Malaysia offers a tapestry of experiences that will enchant any traveler. Let's embark on an in-depth journey to discover the incredible places that make Malaysia a must-visit destination for every wanderlust-filled soul.
Our journey begins amidst the glittering skyline of Kuala Lumpur, where the Petronas Towers stand as a testament to Malaysia's modernity. These gleaming twin towers, once the tallest in the world, are more than just architectural marvels; they are a symbol of the nation's economic prowess and ambition. Ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city or take a leisurely stroll through the adjacent KLCC Park, an urban oasis offering a serene escape from the bustling city life.
Venture north to the UNESCO World Heritage city of George Town, where the vibrant street art narrates the tale of Malaysia's rich cultural heritage. The narrow alleys and quaint corners are adorned with murals that seamlessly blend historical elements with contemporary flair. As you explore the charming streets, the aroma of local delicacies wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in Penang's renowned street food scene.
Leave the mainland and head west to Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands. Perched high above the lush rainforest, Langkawi's Sky Bridge is an engineering marvel that offers breathtaking vistas of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. The journey to the bridge itself is an adventure, involving a cable car ride that provides a stunning preview of the natural beauty that awaits at the top.
Escape the tropical heat by ascending to the cool, mist-covered hills of Cameron Highlands. This verdant region is dotted with tea plantations, strawberry farms, and colorful flower gardens. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the highlands, take guided tours of the tea estates, and relish the crisp mountain air while savoring freshly brewed local teas.
Embark on a journey to Taman Negara National Park, the oldest rainforest in the world. The dense jungles teem with biodiversity, offering adventurous travelers the opportunity to trek through ancient foliage, cross hanging bridges, and witness rare wildlife in their natural habitat. Taman Negara is a haven for nature lovers, promising an immersive experience in the heart of Malaysia's ecological wonders.
Malaysia, with its kaleidoscope of experiences, beckons travelers to explore its wonders. Whether you seek cultural immersion, natural beauty, or thrilling adventures, this Southeast Asian gem has something for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to uncover the enchanting allure of Malaysia.
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Will the video of Princess Kate out shopping put the royal rumors to an end?
LONDON — A shopping trip may never have received such scrutiny.
After more than a week of speculation and rumors about the whereabouts and health of Kate, the Princess of Wales, a grainy video emerged appearing to show her out with her husband, Prince William .
That might have been the end of the story in a different era. Not so in the age of internet-fueled conspiracy theories and nosediving trust in public institutions: a time when anything is forgeable and therefore everything, especially anything put out by Britain’s royal family these past few weeks, remains open to questions.
The video, published by the British tabloid The Sun , shows a man in a baseball cap and a jacket, accompanied by a woman with brown hair wearing a hooded sweater and sports leggings. The newspaper said it was recorded at Windsor Farm Shop, near the couple’s home to the west of London, and it splashed the story on its front page alongside the headline, “Great to see you again, Kate!"
Britain’s most-read paper, The Daily Mail, summarized the generally sympathetic tone of the country’s news media, calling it the “image the world has been waiting to see.”
The gossip website TMZ, which also published the video, said it had “delved into the metadata” and had “no doubt” that it was a “legitimate video.”
Kensington Palace did not immediately respond to a request for a response to the video. But it would have known that someone at this very public place would most likely spot them, NBC News royal commentator Daisy McAndrew said Tuesday on “TODAY.”
“This was a genuine member of the public who happened to see Kate and William at this farm shop,” McAndrew said. “But was it setup, in that they knew perfectly well that somebody would take a photograph of them? Yes, I think we can assume that was the case.”
McAndrew said she thought there was a strong chance Kate will make her official return to the public eye on Easter Sunday.
In the meantime, the video has not been enough to convince some of the frenzied masses on social media who have become enthralled by the saga and whose engagement with the royal rumor mill had reached fever pitch just as the video emerged.
Whether the palace or the rest of the public agrees, it is still a topic of intense conversation, with related search terms among the trending topics on multiple platforms.
“That ain’t Kate….,” said TV producer Andy Cohen, who has 2.2 million followers on X.
At the center of all this is a woman who, according to the palace, is recovering from major abdominal surgery and has always been expected to be out of action until at least the end of this month.
“Once we do have answers about what has gone on with the Princess of Wales these past few months, people are going to feel sincerely guilty about their behavior,” Kinsey Schofield, host of the “To Di For Daily” royal podcast, told Britain’s Times Radio on Tuesday.
Polling for Sky News, NBC News’ British partner, suggested that more than half of the population had seen the conspiracy theories but that trust in the royals had not been significantly dented.
At the same time, even many sober royal experts say there have been a slew of decisions by the palace that at best do not help the royal cause with the public, providing fodder for observers seeking to uncover some grand conspiracy.
The picture agency Getty, one of those that pulled Kate’s family photo last week, added an editor’s note Tuesday to another royal image taken by the princess, saying her photo of the late Queen Elizabeth II with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren from 2022 had been “digitally enhanced at source.”
NBC News analysis of the image suggested it had been subjected to Photoshop errors when the editor tried to “clone” one area of the image and copy it onto another.
The photo of Kate and her children may be the biggest controversy over a royal image since 1539, when King Henry VIII sent his court artist, Hans Holbein, to paint Anne of Cleaves so he could consider her for marriage, according to royal biographer and historian Sarah Gristwood.
On meeting Anne, Henry is said to have remarked that the painting was a poor likeness, and their marriage the next year was annulled within months.
While overall levels of trust may not have been dented, it seems for some people the debacle has marked something of an open season for royal rumors.
Many have asked: Why not just end the chatter by releasing a short video explanation or a statement squaring some of the recent issues? The answer is likely to lie in the royals’ stubbornness and their animosity toward the news media, according to expert observers such as Gristwood.
“I can accept that there are reasons why we’re all diving so hastily into this rabbit hole,” said Gristwood, a royal biographer and historian whose books include “The Tudors in Love.” But “we also have to remember Prince William’s determination, like that of his brother, to protect his wife and family and not be bullied by the press.”
Given what we know about William’s views on the media, she said, the royals most likely do not want to be “bullied into doing what they’d never planned to do, forcing Kate to go out in public before she expected to, and being forced to give updates on her health that they always said they wouldn’t do.”
Alexander Smith is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital based in London.
'Guaranteed to see the eclipse': A plane might be the best place to see the phenomenon
Travelers flying on April 8 may have a chance to see the total solar eclipse from the sky.
Delta Air Lines is running two special flights to chase the path of totality, but many carriers, including Southwest and United, are advertising the regularly scheduled itineraries they have with the best chance of seeing the daytime darkness.
According to Stephen Lawrence, a professor of physics and astronomy at Hofstra University, seeing the eclipse from a plane comes with some extra benefits but also a few challenges.
Much of the path of totality in the U.S. has a 60%-80% chance of cloud cover on the ground, with Texas being the most likely location for clear skies. On a plane, Lawrence said, “You can generally fly high enough to be above the clouds, so you’re guaranteed to see the eclipse.”
But, he warned, just being on the plane isn’t always enough.
“You have to be on the correct side of the plane,” Lawrence said. “People on the right side of the plane, the south-facing side of the plane, will be able to see it,” but those on the north side won’t.
Watch from there parks: You can see the total solar eclipse from national parks, but their skies offer much more
If you’re flying in an easterly direction, you’ll want to be on the right-hand side when facing forward or the left-hand side if your flight path is heading westerly.
Lawrence said eastbound flights have an added bonus for eclipse viewing, too.
“You’re slowing the shadow down by half. Instead of a 4 ½-minute eclipse, you might get a six-minute region of totality,” he said, explaining that because planes cruise at around 500 mph and the shadow of the eclipse moves at about 1,000 mph, chasing it across the sky means you can see it for longer than you’d be able to as a stationary observer on the ground.
He added the higher vantage point from a flight means travelers will have a better view of the shadow approaching than those on the ground.
Whether you’re watching from the ground or the sky, Lawrence said it’s important to take appropriate precautions.
“The most important thing, of course, is eye safety. It is safe to look at the eclipse with the naked eye but only during the few minutes of totality,” he said.
Which airlines are advertising eclipse flights?
Delta has scheduled two special flights to see the path of the eclipse and added that some of its regular itineraries also have a high likelihood of crossing the shadow. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines also said they have flights that will likely encounter the path of totality.
Here’s what’s on offer:
◾ From Detroit (DTW) to Westchester, New York (HPN), departing at 2:59 p.m. EDT.
◾ From Los Angeles (LAX) to Dallas (DFW), departing at 8:40 a.m. PDT.
◾ From Los Angeles (LAX) to San Antonio (SAT), departing at 9:00 a.m. PDT.
◾ From Salt Lake City (SLC) to San Antonio (SAT), departing at 10:08 a.m. MDT.
◾ From Salt Lake City (SLC) to Austin (AUS), departing at 9:55 a.m. MDT.
◾ Flight 1252: departing Dallas (Love Field) at 12:45 p.m. CDT for Pittsburgh
◾ Flight 1721: departing Austin at 12:50 p.m. CDT for Indianapolis
◾ Flight 1910: departing St. Louis at 1:20 p.m. CDT for Houston (Hobby)
◾ Flight 5693 departs Chicago for Little Rock at 12:45 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 490 departs Chicago for Houston at 12:47 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 455 departs Chicago for Dallas at 12:49 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 247 departs Chicago for Toronto at 1 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 2440 departs Chicago for New York at 1 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 2187 departs Chicago for Washington, D.C., at 1:20 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 1438 departs Houston for San Jose del Cabo at 11:55 a.m. CDT
◾ Flight 6128 departs Houston for Columbus at noon CDT
◾ Flight 6109 departs Houston for Detroit at 12:05 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 1318 departs Houston for Cincinnati at 12:23 p.m. CDT
◾ Flight 1687 departs Houston for Indianapolis at 12:25 p.m. CDT
But it’s not just airlines with flights through the path of totality that are seeing eclipse-related travel demand pick up. Alaska Airlines is seeing extra demand for flights to Austin, Dallas and San Antonio, Texas, as well as Cleveland – destinations that should have good opportunities for eclipse viewing on the ground. An Alaska spokesperson told USA TODAY the airline previously added an extra flight to Mazatlán, Mexico, which is expected to have the longest duration totality during this eclipse. According to the spokesperson, there’s especially high demand for tickets to Mazatlán too.
Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].
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Follow days 5-7 in the 7-day itinerary above. Malaysia Itinerary: 2 Weeks. When designing a Malaysia 2 week itinerary, I recommend basing it on the 10 day itinerary above but with extra time everywhere and visiting Melaka on a day trip. Read through the 10-day itinerary before going through the Malaysia two week itinerary as it is more detailed.
Kota Kinabalu is one of the top places to visit in Malaysia to go island hopping - but think relaxation, not partying. Gaya Island is one of the most popular, as well as Manukan which is one of the islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These islands great for jungle trekking and diving.
Jalan Alor Night Market. Admire the Petronas Towers. Kuala Lumpur itinerary: day 2. Thean Hou Temple. Lunch in Little India (Brickfields) The Batu Caves. Best things to eat in Kuala Lumpur. This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products.
Morning Of Day 2 KL Itinerary: Thean Hou Temple, Central Market. Afternoon Of Day 2 KL Itinerary: Merdeka Square, KL Forest Eco Park, KL Tower. Night Of Day 2 KL Itinerary: Jalan Alor Night Food Court. KL Itinerary Map: Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur In 2 Days. Additional Places to Visit In Kuala Lumpur In 2 Days. 1.
If you're looking for places to visit in Malaysia in three days, KL has day-trip potential, too. Listen to birdsong at KL Forest Eco Park , picnic by a waterfall at the Forest Research Institute ; and less than an hour's drive away is Mah Meri Cultural Village , where you can immerse yourself in indigenous Orang Asli art and history.
3. Taman Negara National Park. Taman Negara is the largest national park on the Malay Peninsula. In fact, the name Taman Negara literally translates from Malay to English as 'National Park'. It's an area of rainforest and wildlife, one of the last surviving areas in the country outside of Malaysian Borneo.
10 Majestic Waterfalls In Malaysia That Are Mighty Beyond Words! 4. Lake Chenderoh. Image Source. Thinking about going for fishing this weekend- Lake Chenderoh is a natural lake in Perak, Malaysia and is the perfect spot for spending your weekend fishing with your family.
When to visit Kuala Lumpur. The weather in Kuala Lumpur is mostly hot and humid, with average high temperatures between 28°C and 32°C throughout the year. Since KL has a tropical climate, frequent downpours aren't uncommon either. The hottest month is March, while November sees the most rainfall.
5. Scale the sublime summit of Mt Kinabalu. The highest mountain on Borneo, Gunung Kinabalu is Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Viewed from below, this cloud-spearing summit (4095m/13435ft) inspires awe: an outlying peak that rises far higher than its neighbors in the Crocker mountain range.
Sabah is a state in East Malaysia on the northern part of the island of Borneo. For most adventure-seekers, what makes Sabah one of the best places to visit in Malaysia is its famous mountain, Mount Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu (4095m) is the tallest mountain in Malaysia and has stunning granite spires. Besides being home to Malaysia's highest ...
7. Visit Historical Merdeka Square. If you are at all interested in Malaysian history, a trip to Merdeka Square is a worthy addition to your 2 days Kuala Lumpur itinerary. Here is where Malaysia declared their independence in 1957, and previously served as the colonial core of Kuala Lumpur.
3 2 Days Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: Day 2. 3.1 Visit Thean Hou Temple. 3.2 Explore Brickfields (Little India) 3.3 Explore Chinatown & Petaling Street Market. 3.4 Visit Merdeka Square. 3.5 Enjoy sunset drinks with a view. Exploring the beautiful Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
It's most certainly one of the best places to start your journey in Malaysia ; Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of cultures with a harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences ... Kuala Lumpur in 2 days: How to see the best of the city . There's something for everyone when visiting Kuala Lumpur: from tranquil temples ...
2 DAYS IN KUALA LUMPUR TRAVELING VIA BUS. Taking a KL city bus is the most budget-friendly option costing only 11 MYR ($2.47 USD), and it takes about one hour or more depending on traffic. It drops you off at KL Sentral. The buses leave frequently and are comfortable.
The simplest way to get to the top of Penang Hill is by using its funicular railway, and this is one of the longest funicular journeys in Asia. However, the journey only takes about 5 minutes. The funicular runs from 6.30 am to 10 pm (the ticket office closes at 8 pm).
Alternatively, spend a couple of extra days checking out additional sights, and some of the best hiking trails around Kuala Lumpur such as the Bukit Tabur hiking trail, or just take your time, visiting fewer attractions each day. Day 1. Batu Caves. Masjid Jamek. Kuala Lumpur Forest Eco Park and Treetop Walkway.
Visit Jonker Street Night Market (Friday to Sunday) If you have any energy left on the first day of your 2 days in Melaka, it's time to hit up the famous Jonker Street Night Market in Melaka. The night market only runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays but the street and most shops are open during the weekdays too.
Kota Kinabalu 3 Day itinerary. Day 1: Check into your hotel and take a half day tour around the main city sights. Day 2: Get out of the city and explore Kinabalu Park and hot springs. Day 3: Head to the nearby islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and enjoy snorkelling and a great lunch.
Try the sago gula melaka for dessert as the pandan sago isn't too sweet with syrup and coconut cream. Main entrees are around 26-30 MYR ($6.20-$7.20 USD). Address: 77, Muntri St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia. China House is a must-visit spot to eat in Penang to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you wanted to explore places a little further afield such as the Melaka Straits Mosque, for example, I'd recommend spending at least 2 days here. Below I've laid out a suggested Malacca Itinerary for 2 days; but if you only have the day, you can follow day 1 of the itinerary and ignore day 2. Melaka Straits Mosque at night.
Malaysia. Malaysia, a nature lover's paradise, offers diverse ecosystems ranging from rainforests to coral reefs. Its national parks, like Taman Negara and Kinabalu Park, house rare orangutans and Rafflesia flowers. Malaysia's lush landscapes and wildlife make for unforgettable natural experiences.
Malaysia itinerary for 2 weeks - beach lovers. Days 1-2: Kuala Lumpur - as above. Days 3-7: Perhentian Islands. Days 8-9: Ipoh / Cameron Highlands. Days 10-11: Penang - as above. Days 12-14: Langkawi - as above. This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products.
We've included two travel days in this Malaysia 2 week itinerary but there will be some travel time between all the destinations. The journey from Melaka to the Cameron Highlands will be the longest. Kualar Lumpur - 3 days. Melaka - 2 days. Melaka to Cameron Highlands - 1 day. Cameron Highlands - 2 days.
A 2-Week Malaysia Itinerary for Solo Travellers. This 2-week Malaysia itinerary starts and ends in the capital city Kuala Lumpur and also includes three of the most popular west coast destinations: Melaka, George Town on Penang Island and Langkawi Island. For each destination, I have included the best places to visit, how to get there and where ...
From bustling urban centers to pristine beaches and ancient rainforests, Malaysia offers a tapestry of experiences that will enchant any traveler. Let's embark on an in-depth journey to discover the incredible places that make Malaysia a must-visit destination for every wanderlust-filled soul.
Best 5 Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in Fayetteville. 1. Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Established in 1989, ... Time: Varies depending on the day, but most shows begin at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the St. Patrick's Day parade in New York City. Since March 17 falls on a Sunday, the New York City parade will be on Saturday, March 16, starting at 11 a.m. ET.. New York City St. Patrick's ...
From bustling urban centers to pristine beaches and ancient rainforests, Malaysia offers a tapestry of experiences that will enchant any traveler. Let's embark on an in-depth journey to discover the incredible places that make Malaysia a must-visit destination for every wanderlust-filled soul.
Video emerged of Kate, the Princess of Wales, out shopping in Windsor with her husband, Prince William. And a photo of the Queen with royal children was altered, Getty says.
Travelers flying on April 8 may have a chance to see the total solar eclipse from the sky. Delta Air Lines is running two special flights to chase the path of totality, but many carriers ...