local trip malaysia

As  full-time digital nomads , we’re travel experts . Follow us for travel tips!

Our Offbeat Life contains affiliate links & participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program & other affiliate programs. If you buy something using an Amazon or other link, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure for more details.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is a Short Getaway in Malaysia?

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

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

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

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

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

Short Getaway in Malaysia Summary

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

Short Getaways Near Kuala Lumpur

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

1. Kuala Lumpur City Stay

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

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

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

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

KLCC Hotels and Activities

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

KLCC Activities to Try:

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

Southern Kuala Lumpur Hotels and Activities

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

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

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

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

Restaurants to Try during your short getaway in KL:

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

2. Fraser’s Hill

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

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

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

Fraser’s Hill Hotels & Activities

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

Fraser’s Hill Activities to Try:

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

Try these restaurants in Fraser’s Hill:

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

3. Genting Highlands

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

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

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

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

Genting Highlands Hotels & Activities:

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

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

Genting Highlands Activities:

• Resorts World Skytropolis Theme Park
• Ride the Skyway Gondola

Restaurants to try in Genting Highlands:

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

4. Kuala Selangor

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

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

Kuala Selangor Hotels and Activities:

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

Kuala Selangor Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Selangor:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melaka Hotels and Activities:

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

Melaka Activites to Try:

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

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

Restaurants to Try in Melaka:

• Baboon House
• Pak Putra Restaurant
• Munchkins Cafe Melaka

6. Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

Port Dickson Hotels and Activities:

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

Port Dickson Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Port Dickson:

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

7. Bukit Tinggi + Bentong/Raub

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

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

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

Bukit Tinggi Hotels & Activities

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

Bukit Tinggi Activities:

• French Town Tour
• Colmar Tropicale Castle

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

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

8. Kuala Kubu Bharu

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

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

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

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

Kuala Kubu Baru Hotels & Activities

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

Kubu Bharu Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Kubu Bharu:

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

9. Sekinchan

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

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

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

Sekinchan Hotels & Activities

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

Sekinchan Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Sekinchan:

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

10. Hulu Langat

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

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

Hulu Langat Hotels & Activities

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

Hulu Langat Activities:

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

Restaurants to Try in Hulu Langat:

• Zest Restaurant
• Elda’s Farmhouse
• Latest Recipe

11. Janda Baik

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

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

Janda Baik Hotels & Activities:

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

Janda Baik Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Janda Baik:

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

12. Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib

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

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

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

Pantai Morib Hotels & Activities

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

Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib Activities:

• Go Tandem Paragliding
• Relax on Morib Beach

Restaurants to Try in Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib:

• She Ba Judgra
• Restoran Wan Ikan Bakar

13. Batang Kali

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

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

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

Batang Kali Hotels & Activities

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

Restaurants to try in Batang Kali Selangor:

• CCK Restaurant
• WK Restaurant
• Ken Kee Restaurant

Short Getaways Around Peninsular Malaysia

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

14. Belum Rainforest

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

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

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

Belum Rainforest Hotels and Activities

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

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

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

15. Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands Hotels and Activities:

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

Cameron Highlands Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Cameron Highlands:

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

16. Johor Bahru

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

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

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

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

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

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

Johor Bahru Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try near Legoland:

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

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

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

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

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

Ipoh Hotels and Activities

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

Ipoh Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Ipoh:

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

18. Taiping

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

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

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

Taiping Hotels and Activities

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

Taiping Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Taiping:

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

19. Cherating Beach

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

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

Cherating Hotels and Activities

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

Cherating Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Cherating:

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

20. Desaru Beach

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

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

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

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

Desaru Hotels and Activities

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

Activities in Desaru to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Desaru:

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

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

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

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

Gopeng Hotels and Activities

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

Gopeng Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Gopeng:

• Kristal Jade Seafood Restaurant
• Idamsa Cafe
• Miera Kitchen

22. Taman Negara

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

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

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

Taman Negara Hotels and Activities

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

Taman Negara Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Taman Negara:

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

23. Kuala Sepetang

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

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

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

Kuala Sepetang Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Sepetang:

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

24. Jungle Railway of the East Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Getaways in Malaysian Borneo

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

25. Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

Kota Kinabalu Hotels and Activities

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

Kota Kinabalu Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kota Kinabalu:

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

26. Kuching

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

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

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

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

Kuching Hotels and Activities

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

Kuching Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuching:

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

27. Sandakan

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

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

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

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

Sandakan Hotels and Activities

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

Sandakan Activities to Try:

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

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

Restaurants to Try in Sandakan:

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

28. Gunung Mulu National Park

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

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

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

Gunung Mulu Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try in Gunung Mulu National Park:

• Good Luck Cave’fe Mulu

Short Island Getaways in Malaysia

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

29. Langkawi Island

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

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

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

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

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

Telaga Tujuh Waterfall is also a lot of fun!

Langkawi Hotels and Activities

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

Langkawi Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Langkawi:

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

30. Penang Island

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

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

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

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

Penang Hotels and Activities

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

Penang Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try on Penang Island:

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

31. Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

Tioman Hotels and Activities

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

Tioman Activities to Try:

• Get SCUBA certified
• Visit the Turtle Hatchery

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

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

32. Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

Perhentian Hotels and Activities

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

Perhentian Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in the Perhentian Islands:

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

33. Pangkor Laut Island

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

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

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

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

Restaurants to Try on Pangkor Laut Island:

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

34. Lang Tengah Island

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

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

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

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

Lang Tengah Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try on Lang Tengah:

• Koko Restaurant

35. Redang Island

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

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

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

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

Redang Island Hotels and Activities

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

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

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

Restaurants to Try on Redang Island:

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

36. Rawa Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. Kapas Island

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

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

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

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

Kapas Island Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try in Marang:

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

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

38. Carey Island

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

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

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

Carey Island Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try on Carey Island:

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

39. Sibu Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on a Short Getaway in Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sharing is caring!

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

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

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

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

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

Similar Posts

7 Best Monteverde Night Walks to Take in 2024

Penang vs Langkawi: Which is Better? (2024)

What is the Best Time to Visit Langkawi? (2024)

10 Cool Penang Hotel with Private Pool Options (2024)

Unmasking the Truth: Our Trusted Housesitters Review (2024)

29 Best Day Trips From Scottsdale Arizona (2024)

Wander-Lush

Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Unmissable Destinations

Where to go in Malaysia – 30 of the very best places to visit in Malaysia, as recommended by locals and travel experts.

From the steel-and-glass metropolis of KL to the jungles of Borneo, Malaysia has to be one of the most diverse countries in Asia.

Visitors drawn in by Malaysia’s legendary national parks and tropical islands usually find the food culture , street art and layered history is reason enough to linger a little longer.

Despite having visited Malaysia half a dozen times, I’ve still only scratched the surface of this diverse nation. To help with curating this list of the best places to visit in Malaysia, I asked a group of experienced travellers and locals to share their recommendations.

This guide explores some of the best things to do in Malaysia for every interest, travel style and budget. From must-see cities to small towns, cultural sites and religious monuments to hiking and ethical wildlife encounters, the best beaches, islands and resorts, this list has something for everyone.

If we’ve forgotten to include your favourite place in Malaysia, please let us know in the comments!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

How to get around Malaysia

I use Bookaway to reserve bus and train tickets when I travel in Malaysia. You can use the site to check up-to-date routes and times and compare prices between different companies. Online payment is secure and it’s easy to change or cancel your tickets if plans change.

→ Check timetables and book tickets online through Bookaway .

Where to go in Malaysia: Cities & culture

Kuala lumpur.

Anyone who’s wondering where to go in Malaysia will inevitably wind up incorporating Kuala Lumpur into their itinerary. Malaysia’s capital city is simply a must-see for first-time visitors. The scale of the city will blow you away.

KL has the glossy veneer of a big, anonymous city, but beneath the surface, it’s a hotbed of history, culture and cuisine. Whether you only have time for a short layover in KL or you’re planning an extended stay, there are a couple of things you need to check off your list.

The first is the iconic Petronas Towers . Viewed from the park below, they cut an immaculate figure against the inky blue night sky and define KL’s urban horizon. Take a trip up to the viewing deck (advance reservations essential – book tickets here ) for a magnificent view of the city.

Spend a few hours wandering the Central Market and Chinatown precinct (be sure to visit Petaling Street and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple ), both lively destinations for shopping, eating and socialising. Save some of your pennies for KL’s beautiful boutique gift shops, including Batik Boutique where you can find gorgeous handmade souvenirs . A stop at the National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara) and the nearby Islamic Arts Museum is another must-do.

When night falls, head to the Jalan Alor Night Food Court and see how many Malaysian delicacies you can squeeze in. If you have more time, there are dozens of convenient day trip opportunities from KL – keep reading to discover the best of the best!

George Town (Penang)

Possibly Malaysia’s most popular tourist destination, George Town is the biggest city and capital of Penang island. There are three things George Town is best known for: Street food , street art , and vibrant laneways dotted with heritage architecture .

You could easily spend a week or more in George Town exploring the UNESCO Heritage Listed Old Town , which consumes the eastern end of the island. Stroll down the iconic Penang five-foot ways and step back in history, keeping an eye out for Ernest Zacharevic’s best murals along the way. Join a food tour to sample the best Penang eats – there are simply too many to list here – and immerse yourself in the local craft scene at the Batik Painting Museum .

Other must-sees include Cheong Fatt Tze (The Blue Mansion) and the nearby Goddess of Mercy Temple . Climb Penang Hill for an epic view of the island. Set aside an evening for Chew Jetty , a laid-back waterside clan community where you can get a small taste of what Penang must have been like during its heyday as a Straights trading hub.

The quieter cousin of George Town, Ipoh boasts many of the same virtues – amazing street art, historic laneways and architecture, a fantastic hawker market scene – only without the crowds of Penang.

The capital of central Malaysia’s Perak state, Ipoh is a captivating city that oozes history and charm from the cracks in the plasterwork and flaking shutters of its buildings. Walk the Ipoh Heritage Trail , a mapped route that takes in 27 of the city’s most important landmarks, including the British Colonial railway station , to peel back the layers of Ipoh’s history.

Some of the best things to do in Ipoh revolve around eating and drinking. Malaysia’s iconic white coffee , an iced drink made with coffee beans soaked in margarine, was born here in Ipoh and is served in sweet little local cafes across the city. Ipoh Bean Sprout Chicken is a must-try for dinner and can be found at any of the hawker markets.

While you’re pounding the pavement, keep an eye out for the large-scale murals painted by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic (the same man responsible for George Town’s street art). Hundreds of smaller works by local artists and collectives are sprinkled throughout the city, concentrated around Mural Art’s Lane .

Beyond the city limits, Ipoh gives way to the lush landscapes of Perak, with its thick rainforest and limestone caves . Mirror lakes and hidden temples are waiting to be explored via walking tracks – including the magnificent Perak Cave Temple .

Capital of Malaysian Borneo’s semi-autonomous Sarawak state, Kuching has a lovely laid-back feel. The Kuching Waterfront precinct sprawls out along the beautiful Kuching river, reflecting the golden roof of the New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building .

Dilapidated shophouses, curling alleyways and eclectic architecture define Kuching’s centre. Wander the brightly painted alleyways around India Street , with their fabric vendors and fragrant spice markets, and spot orang-utan-themed street art by Ernest Zacharevic .

Like all Malaysian cities, Kuching has a great food scene. Choon Hui Cafe is a local institution – the prawn laksa and popiah ( Fujianesespring roll) are both must-eats. Other dishes to try in Kuching include kolo mee (yellow noodles cooked Kuching-style) and Sarawak laksa .

Culture lovers will appreciate Kuching’s excellent museums. The Museum of Sarawak , which catalogues Iban culture, Textile Museum and Tun Jugah Collection , a private collection of hand-woven textiles displayed alongside Iban artefacts, are all worth the ticket price. For the perfect Kuching souvenir , look for Iban black-and-white rattan mats and other Bornean antiques in Kuching’s Main Bazaar .

Kuching is a departure point for exploring Sarawak’s natural beauty and Iban culture, with river boat rides, longhouse homestays and jungle treks all within a few hours of the city. Don’t miss Semenggoh Nature Reserve (more on that later), a wonderful orang-utan sanctuary just outside Kuching.

Kota Kinabalu

Recommended by Khushboo, Munni of All Trades

The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu – or KK as it’s fondly known – is considered the gateway city for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Borneo. However, it’s fast emerging as a popular tourist destination in its own right.

To experience the true beauty of Kota Kinabalu, you must visit the Jesselton Point Waterfront . It’s perfect for anyone who’s looking for delicious local food and scenic views. Tourists also have the option to take a ferry to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park or one of the five islands that are just 15 minutes away. Sipping on a beer in a local cafe at Jesselton as you watch the sun set or enjoying karaoke with friends is a wonderful way to end the day after your island trip.

The Mari Mari Cultural Village is a great place for anyone looking to experience Sabah’s rich heritage. During your half-day trip to Mari Mari, you can witness traditional dance performances, hunting and fishing practices practiced by the region’s five ethnic groups: Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, Murut and Dusun.

For adventure enthusiasts, a hike to Mount Kinabalu is of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu . The hikes are often overbooked so it is advisable to make a reservation in advance. Be sure to spend an evening by the iconic city mosque, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu , where you can enjoy some peace and solitude.

A convenient day trip from Kuala Lumpur , Melaka (Malacca) is a historic port city set on Malaysia’s southwestern coast. With its layers of Malay, Nyonya, Portuguese, Dutch and English heritage, Melaka perfectly captures Malaysia’s multicultural spirit and multifaceted history.

Start in the Dutch-era Stadthuys square , Melaka’s most recognisable landmark. The 1753-built Christ Church stands proudly at top of the square, surrounded by a flurry of colourful vendors and cafes organised around beautifully manicured gardens. The cacophony of food, souvenir and bric-a-brac stalls continues down Jonker Street . If you’re wondering what to eat in Melaka, Nyonya Laksa is the best local dish to sink your teeth into.

Above the waterfront, St. Paul’s Church and Famosa Fort offer interesting ruins and panoramic viewpoints. The Melaka Straits Mosque , which juts out into the water on a narrow peninsular, is one of the most beautiful mosques in all of Malaysia.

Recommended by Sharon, Dive into Malaysia

For somewhere off the tourist trail with plenty of local charm, visit Taiping! Located near the west coast of peninsular Malaysia close to Penang, Taiping is easy to visit by train or bus from Kuala Lumpur or anywhere in the western region of Malaysia.

Taiping itself has similar charms to Penang with street art, great food and colonial architecture , but without the crowds. It was one of the first cities to be established in Malaysia and has many firsts – the first railway station, first museum, first post office, first wet market and more.

A trip to Taiping should start with a walk around the central colonial area to see the well-preserved architecture while looking out for street art. Next stop is Muzium Perak to learn more about this part of Malaysia. Finally, finish at Taman Tasik Taiping , Taiping’s famous gardens. These 64-hectares of lagoons and grassland are a great place to relax, look out for monitor lizards or take a paddle on a paddleboat. Read more about Taiping here.

The most delicious way to cool down from the heat is at Ansari Famous Cendol for one of Malaysia’s best shaved ice treats. To taste many of the local dishes, head to Pusat Makanan Taman Tasik , a popular foodcourt by the lake.

For a comfortable place to stay in a central location, try the Louis Hotel .

Bukit Mertajam

By Marco Ferrarese, Penang Insider

Everybody goes to UNESCO-listed George Town on Penang island for an overdose of food and street art. Few people realise that right across the Penang bridge, the town of Bukit Mertajam in Seberang Prai, the mainland part of Penang state, has plenty of interesting stuff to do as well.

Bukit Mertajam is an offbeat, beautiful town with strong ties to the local Chinese triads (yes, the local mafia). Set next to the hill of the same name, there’s hiking galore in Cherok Tokun reserve .

The old town of Bukit Mertajam, developed around the Pek Kong Cheng temple (sadly partially destroyed by fire in 2019), has a lot of great food. Try BM Best Cendol (self-titled as such, and for good reason) and the ‘Black Man Rojak’, a praised local stall selling Malaysian rojak – pieces of tropical fruit drenched in thick, black sweet-sour sauce. Also try the famous BM Cup Rice, which dishes up delicious duck and pork meat with local rice.

Don’t forget to look around – Bukit Mertajam’s old town has decrepit, old-world buildings that are much more authentic than Penang’s gentrified boutique hotels and cookie-cutter cafes.

There are many opportunities to get out and about in nature near Bukit Mertajam. For starters, you can try the Cherok Tokun hiking trail that leads to the TV towers on top of Bukit Mertajam. Take a stroll at Bukit D.O. , a nature park for local hiking enthusiasts. Pay a visit to St. Anne’s Church , an important pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over India and Southeast Asia who come here to celebrate every year at the end of July.

During Malaysia’s nation-wide Hungry Ghost Festival , Bukit Mertajam hosts the tallest statue of the King of Hell Tay Su Yeah.

Penang’s gentrification? Please leave it across the Penang bridge and come to Bukit Mertajam for a timeless Malaysian experience.

Kuala Kangsar

Located in central Malaysia’s Perak state, the town of Kuala Kangsar is an easy day trip from Ipoh by train. Known as the ‘royal city’, it served as the seat for the Shah of Perak between 1877 and 1887.

Ubudiah Mosque is considered one of Malaysia’s most distinctive mosques and is reason enough to take a trip to KK. Designed by British architect Arthur Benison Hubback (also responsible for Kuala Lumpur’s railway station), it’s defined by golden domes and towering palm trees. The bands of colour on the facade are created from Italian marble. When the mosque was being built, it’s rumoured that two of the Sultan’s elephants damaged some of the marble tiles, delaying construction!

Apart from the mosque, KK boasts a number of other distinctive landmarks, making it an architecture-lover’s paradise. The Istana Kenangan , a distinctive building that houses the Royal Museum of Perak, Baitul Anor , a decrepit mansion house that was once home to Perak’s prince, and turn-of-the-century-built Victoria Bridge are just some of the highlights.

Recommended by Sonakshi and Mainak, Places In Pixel

Putrajaya is the present federal administrative centre of the Malaysian Government. Being only 35 km from KL city centre, it can easily be explored as a day trip from KL .

The most sought-after place to visit in Putrajaya is the Putra Mosque . Its nickname, the ‘pink mosque’, comes from the rose-tinted granite. Putra Mosque’s Islamic-architecture artistically blends traditional designs, local craftsmanship and the use of indigenous materials. As with any mosque, modest dress is essential if you want to enter the prayer hall and enjoy the elegantly designed interiors.

No trip to Putrajaya is complete without taking a tour of the Perdana Putra complex , which houses the Prime Minister’s Office and other administrative offices. Although visitors are not allowed to go inside, it’s free to admire the exterior and gardens (which includes a couple of Instagrammable spots!).

Other interesting things to do in Putrajaya include driving the beautiful Seri Wawasan Bridge , enjoying the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta , visiting the Putrajaya Botanical Garden , and the Steel Mosque . For adventure seekers, Putrajaya lake offers multiple outdoor activities including stand-up paddle boarding, water jetting and flyboarding.

Johor Bahru

Recommended by Ania, The Travelling Twins

If you want a bit more modern city life before diving back into the jungle or exploring Malaysia’s beaches, Johor Bahru makes for an interesting change from Kuala Lumpur. The city is located right down in the south of the mainland peninsula, on the border with Singapore .

And indeed Johor Bahru could be called Malaysia’s answer to Singapore. It is set up to attract visitors from the neighbouring city state with much of the sparkle, but at much lower prices. Excellent shopping and fabulous restaurants are what JB is known for.

If you want to go from JB to Singapore itself, then it’s just a 45-minute bus ride away. But don’t just pass through – this place is a destination in its own right.

With Legoland Malaysia and Hello Kitty Town both in close proximity, this is a great destination for families with young kids.

Batu Caves in Selangor, just north of KL, can be counted among Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations. As well as being rather Instagram-friendly, this is an extremely important spiritual pilgrimage site. I recommend visiting with a local guide to make the most of the experience.

The limestone cave complex is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity. In late January/early February, the Hindu Thaipusam festival is celebrated here. If you can brave the heat and humidity, this is the perfect time to visit.

Outside of festival time, visitors can explore the largest cave, Temple Cave , accessible via 270 steps (now painted in a rainbow of colours). The towering gold statue of Murugan is the tallest of its kind in the world.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Recommended by Rose, Where Goes Rose

Buddhist Kek Lok Si Temple on the island of Penang is yet more proof of Malaysia’s diversity. While there are Hindu and Taoist temples, mosques and churches in the nearby city of George Town, this iconic temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over Southeast Asia. 

Built in 1980, Kek Lok Si is home to temples, statues, prayer halls and towers with impressive views over Penang. You could easily spend a half-day exploring the complex. Don’t miss the three-storey shrine (as the tallest building for miles around, it would be hard to), donated by King Bhumibol of Thailand. Here there’s a vegetarian restaurant as well as a few shops. You also have the option to pay 3 MYR to catch a lift to the enormous Kuan Yin female goddess statue.

An ideal time to visit Kek Lok Si is for Chinese New Year celebrations in February when the whole temple is illuminated by strobe lights and a firework show takes place.

It takes just 30 minutes to reach Kek Lok Si Temple from George Town by bus or taxi. The nearest town is Air Itam, where you should stop afterwards for a bowl of assam laksa at Pasar Air Itam Laksa , voted one of the best foods in the world by CNN.

Where to go in Malaysia: Nature, adventure & wildlife

Cameron highlands.

Recommended by Luke, The Coastal Campaign

Cameron Highlands is a spectacular part of the Malaysian hill country covered in lush green tea fields. Visitors come here to see the beautiful mountain scenery and to enjoy the cooler temperatures that comes with the higher elevation.

The number one thing to do in Cameron Highlands is visit a tea plantation and enjoy a cup of the local brew. One of the most popular choices is the BOH Tea Plantation , and that’s because the tasting room has spectacular views from the veranda perched on the hillside. Visitors can also enjoy hikes in the surrounding jungle, the local farmers’ markets , and a walk through the enchanting Mossy Forest .

After a full day of exploring, try Restoran Kumar which serves delicious Indian-style food for very reasonable prices. It’s found in the town of Tanah Rata.

Cameron Highlands is a beautiful part of the country with unique scenery and climate compared to the rest of Malaysia and is absolutely worth visiting.

Teman Negara

Recommended by Stephen, Asia-Hikes

Taman Negara (literally ‘National Park’) is the first protected area in Malaysia, established in 1939, and one of the oldest deciduous rainforests in the world . Easy to visit as a weekend away from Kuala Lumpur (but worthy of a month of exploring in its own right), this expanse of more than 4,300 square kilometres has options for every traveller.

Laid-back weekenders out of Kuala Lumpur might opt for easy exploring – boat rides and short hikes to remote jungle waterfall, Lata Berkoh , canopy walks high in the treetops, or just relaxing at the luxurious Mutiara Taman Negara Resort , which offers guided interpretive walks on the in-house boardwalk.

More adventurous travellers might opt for two to three-day guided hiking in Taman Negara , overnighting in the famous ‘Elephant Cave’ and slipping along muddy jungle trails and through countless streams. For the ultimate Taman Negara adventure, consider the strenuous weeklong round trip to the top of Gunung Tahan , the highest point of Peninsular Malaysia at 2,187 metres.

Almost all tourist services, including restaurants and accommodations, are based in the village of Kuala Tahan across the Tembaling river from the entrance to Taman Negara. A wide range of budget and mid-range accommodation options are available, and a plethora of tour operators make it easy to book guided hikes and other excursions on-site.

Gunung Mulu National Park

Recommended by Oksana and Max, Drink Tea & Travel

Gunung Mulu National Park is one of Malaysia’s true gems. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extensive underground cave network and unique mountain peaks.

Mulu Caves is the longest cave system in the world by surface area. Take some time to explore the Lang Cave, Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, Wind Cave and Lady Cave. They each have their own unique attributes such as rock formations, coral structures, and interesting patches of habitat.

At Deer Cave, you can see the mass bat exodus . From 5pm to 7pm each day, bats numbering in the thousands leave the cave at the same time in search of food from the forest. There is a viewing platform and the event can last for 45 minutes.

Outside of the caves, Gunung Mulu National Park is famous for the Mulu Pinnacles , a series of otherworldly limestone formations that require a three-day hike to reach. It is a somewhat difficult hike, but well worth the exertion.

Recommended by Rachita, Nomllers

Safely tucked away on the largest island in Asia, Sabah is a relatively unexplored destination in Malaysia. Sabah is home to more than 32 different ethnic groups and is a great place to learn more about local culture. Apart from that, Sabah is also quite well-known for its rainforests, beaches, and abundant wildlife . Most of the state is covered with reserves or parks.

When visiting Sabah, make sure you try a few local dishes such as Tuaran noodles, Butod, Roti Cobra, and a lot more. While the best local food is served at homestays , you have to try Roti Cobra at Kedai Makan Islamic Restoran in Kota Kinabalu . It is simply delicious.

Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia and is a popular hiking spot. If you’re interested in exploring the coral reefs , then head to the nearby islands for a fun diving experience. And if you’re a nature lover, then a visit to Kinabalu Park , Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must.

From climbing Mount Kinabalu to meeting headhunting warriors and nomadic sea gypsies, Sabah is a place you won’t soon forget.

Danum Valley

Recommended by James Ian, Travel Collecting

Danum Valley is an area of virgin rainforest in the Sabah area of Malaysian Borneo. While much of the island has been deforested in order to create palm oil plantations, the Danum Valley Conservation Area has been protected.

There are only two places to stay – the Danum Valley Field Center, just outside the area, offers basic accommodation and limited guides. The second option, Borneo Rainforest Lodge , is smack bang in the middle of the virgin rainforest. Rates include meals served inside the beautiful, open lodge that faces a forested escarpment.

Danum Valley is one of the best places in Borneo to witness Malaysia’s incredible flora and wildlife. Highlights include guided hikes to lookouts, waterfalls, and a small river where fish come and nibble your feet (great for exfoliation!), a canopy walk built through the tops of trees (with excellent chances of seeing orang-utans and hornbills ), and a night drive in the back of a truck with a powerful spotlight (possible sightings include giant flying squirrels, lemurs and even cloud leopards ).

Gua Tempurung

Recommended by Iuliya, Vidadeliya

Gua Tempurung is something of a ‘secret’ spot, even among Malaysians. Tucked away in Gopeng, Perak – some 3 hours’ drive from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur – Gua Tempurung is the largest limestone cave in West Malaysia .

The best thing to do is join one of four caving tours . If you’re particularly adventurous, try the epic 4-hour long Grand Tour. This not only takes you through the incredible limestone stalactites and stalagmites, but also deep into the belly of a cave once used as a communist hideaway. You will have to crawl through narrow cave rivers, climb steep slopes and slide down ledges, all in the pitch dark! For a full account of what it’s like, check out this blog post . 

If caving doesn’t take your fancy, there are many other things you can do nearby, including whitewater rafting , jungle trekking (to search for the ever-elusive Rafflesia!), or waterfall abseiling .

For food, the foodie hub of Ipoh is a mere 30-minutes away. Top choices include the local salty chicken and taufufa , a sweet tofu-based dessert.

Recommended by Marya, The BeauTraveler

Situated in the Kelabit Highlands near the Indonesian border in East Kalimantan, Bario is a small community of 13 to 16 indigenous Kelabit villages . If you’re looking for a remote place to experience authentic indigenous culture, Bario is a great choice.

Bario may be less popular than other destinations in Sarawak, such as Niah Cave or Gunung Mulu, but it’s no less interesting. Organise your accommodation at one of the longhouses and immerse yourself in the local culture during your stay in town. Some accommodations include meals in the booking package, so you can taste the local food provided by your host.

A great time to visit Bario is in June/July, when the area hosts Pesta Nukenan , a showcase of local food and culture.

Travelling overland takes days, thus flights from Miri, Marudi or Kuching are the most convenient way to get to Bario. Before you go, make sure you have enough cash with you since there’s no ATM available (there’s no phone or internet connection either).

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Semenggoh Nature Reserve on the outskirts of Kuching is one of the most accessible places in Malaysia to see semi-wild orang-utans. If you want a quick taste of the Borneo jungle, this is a perfect half-day trip.

Established in the 70s, the patch of rainforest is home to more than 30 endangered orang-utans , all orphaned or rescued from captivity. The centre trains them to survive in the wild.

A tightly controlled viewing area is open twice daily at 9am and 3pm. Carers provide fruit to entice the orang-utans – but whether or not they surface from the thickets is entirely up to them. The best time to visit Semenggoh is during the fruiting season. We went in August and saw half a dozen orang-utans.

Semenggoh is located just 30 kilometres from Kuching and is easy to reach by car or taxi.

Where to go in Malaysia: Islands & beaches

Recommended by Cathy, Mummy Travels

This beautiful tropical island in the north of Malaysia might be small – you could drive around it in just 3 hours – but Langkawi has plenty to tempt visitors, from glorious golden beaches to the wildlife of its lush jungle.

The biggest attractions are the Skycab and Skybridge . The world’s steepest cable car takes you from the Oriental Village complex to a bridge suspended 100 metres in the air for amazing views across the island. If you’re feeling energetic, you can trek partway.

Along with its other attractions, Oriental Village is home to Art in Paradise , Langkawi’s 3D art museum, the biggest of its kind in Malaysia, where you can pose with artwork designed to trick the eye. Huge fun, it’s also ideal during rainy season or as a way to escape the heat.

But Langawki’s biggest attractions are natural. Take a boat tour through the mangroves of the protected Kilim Geoforest park , see bats roosting in Gua Kelawar cave , eagles soaring above the karst peaks , and head out to some of the smaller islands.

Not to forget the beaches: the white sands of Tanjung Rhu are among the loveliest, busy Pantai Cenang is great for water sports and beach bars, while minerals turn the sand of Pantai Pisar Hitam black.

Port Dickson

Recommended by Allison, Urbanite Diary

Port Dickson is a coastal town about 1.5 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur. One of the country’s most popular beach destinations due to its proximity to the capital, the English name originated from the British High Officer, Sir John Frederick Dickson, who was posted at the Straits Settlement during the end of the 19th century.

Top things to do here include a visit to the many beaches along the coastal road. Teluk Kemang is the most popular one, and due to the street market located right in front of it, the most crowded. Other famous sites to visit are the Cape Rachado Lighthouse , the oldest lighthouse in Malaysia built by the Portuguese, as well as the Wan Loong Temple , an ornate Chinese Temple that pays homage to several oriental deities, such as the Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) and the Monkey King. For family travellers with kids, the Port Dickson Army Museum is an interesting place to visit.

Being so close to the sea, Port Dickson has some great seafood restaurants for foodies. Local favourites include Weng Yin Seafood Village, Chardin Seaview Restaurant and Double Queue Thai Cuisine.

Last but not least, one of the highlights of Port Dickson is staying in an overwater chalet . Although the sea water here is not as pristine as some of the other beach destinations in Malaysia, it is still an enjoyable experience to look out to the sea from your room while listening to the sound of the waves. Recommended hotels are Avillion Port Dickson and Lexis Hibiscus .

Sipadan Island

Recommended by Campbell and Alya, Stingy Nomads

Sipadan island in Borneo is the top dive spot in Malaysia and often rated as one of the best places to dive in the world .

Surrounding the island, there is a massive coral wall close to shore that drops 300 metres straight down. Strong currents flowing past the reef bring sharks, big pelagic fish and unreal marine life, creating an amazing wall dive.

This is an incredibly biodiverse spot with huge green turtles , big schools of massive bumphead parrot fish, big eye trevally, and reef sharks hunting in the area. The island’s most famous dive site is Barracuda Point , where you are often engulfed by massive schools of barracuda.

All these incredible marine animals swim close to shore and in the past, divers could walk from their hotel room and jump from the beach into this amazing natural aquarium. If you’re not a diver, Sipadan also offers fantastic snorkelling .

The Malaysian government has taken bold steps to preserve this diving mecca and the island. Since 2004, only divers with the necessary permits are allowed on the island. All resorts were relocated to nearby islands, and only 178 divers per day are granted permits. This is policed and strictly enforced.

Sipadan is very popular, so book your accommodation and diving from the nearby island, Mabul, ahead of time.

Perhentian Islands

Recommended by Lotte, Phenomenal Globe

The beautiful Perhentian Islands are located just off Malaysia’s northeast coast. The largest islands are Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, but there are several small, uninhabited islands in this amazing archipelago as well.

For adventurous travellers, diving in the Perhentian Islands will be an unforgettable experience as the underwater world here is spectacular. If you don’t want to go scuba diving, consider snorkelling instead. There are several (short) hiking trails on Perhentian Kecil , just be sure to bring plenty of water as it gets very hot and humid, especially between April and June.

Coral Bay is located on the west side of Perhentian Kecil and is the perfect place to admire the sunset while enjoying a cocktail on the beach at one of the restaurants or bars. For food, there is no better place to eat fresh seafood (often barbecued). Be sure to try some freshly caught fish during your stay.

If you choose Perhentian Kecil as your base, BuBu Resort is a great place to stay. At Perhentian Besar, the Tuna Bay Island Resort is an excellent option.

Redang Island

Recommended by Kirsten, Sand in My Curls

There are many reasons to visit Malaysia , and Redang Island is definitely one of them. Pulau Redang is one of those postcard-perfect islands with bright white sand and warm azure water.

Located off the east coast of Malaysia and part of the Coral Triangle between Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Indonesia, it’s a global centre for marine biodiversity. No trip would be complete without snorkelling or scuba diving . You can learn to scuba or get started with a discovery dive.

But there are more than just water activities available on the island.

Head to the Taaras Resort for a visit to the SEATRU Turtle Lab . Here, you’ll learn all about the turtle life cycle, predators, and how the lab measures the gentle creatures. April to October is hatching season and the perfect time to see the baby turtles being released into the sea. 

The interior of the island is packed with jungle, and there are a bunch of hiking routes choose from. Most aren’t that difficult and will only take a couple of hours. If you’re lucky, you’ll see rare plants, monitor lizards, monkeys and all sorts of colourful birds.

The best place to eat in Redang is at the Laguna Food Court , where you can sample local delicacies at affordable prices. Be sure to try the fish head curry – it’s a favourite in Malaysia.

Tioman Island

By Vivien and Aaron, The Dharma Trails

Tioman Island is located off Malaysia’s east coast and is accessible by ferry. It’s a perfect getaway for anyone interested in eco travel due to its natural beauty and abundant wildlife .

Apart from the stunning beaches and amazing coral reefs, there are jungle walking trails and waterfall hikes that offer unique insight into the tropical flora and fauna.

Alternatively, you can relax on the beach with an ice-cold beer and enjoy some of the great local restaurants. Be sure to check out Golden Dish Cafe , who grow their own organic vegetables, use locally caught fish, and can also whip up some traditional, herbal drinks with medicinal properties.

The Juarta Turtle Project at Mentawak Beach works with the local community to educate and protect marine life. They offer volunteering experiences for those willing to stay a while.

Where to go in Malaysia: Resorts

Avani sepang goldcoast resort, sepang.

Recommended by Stephanie, History Fangirl

The gorgeous town of Sepang is home to the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort , which has the distinction of being one of the least expensive overwater bungalow resorts anywhere in the world.

Located on the coast roughly halfway between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, it’s the perfect place for couples and solo travellers looking to relax and rejuvenate. If you are a spa lover, check into the resort and soak up all the amenities. Schedule yourself a few treatments so you can take full advantage of your surroundings.

If you want to explore Sepang itself, visit the beautiful nearby mosque, or enjoy a mangrove river cruise . Make sure you set aside some time to see the absolutely stunning sunsets over the water. They are some of the most vibrant anywhere in the world.

You can get to Sepang from Kuala Lumpur by bus, train, or by hiring a private driver.

Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands

Recommended by Sandy and Vyjay, Voyager

Resorts World Genting is an integrated leisure centre on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali, about 55 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. It’s a favourite holiday getaway popular among locals as well as tourists.

Resorts World Genting is a collection of premium hotels, resorts, shopping arcades, theme parks, and restaurants. It is a complete leisure and entertainment destination that also has the advantage of enjoying pleasant temperatures throughout the year. One of the largest hotels in the world, the First World Hotel , is located inside.

Some of the top things to do in Genting include a visit to the Chin Swee Temple , a virtual reality experience at The Void , and the Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park. Whether you’re looking for local cuisine, Mexican, Italian or Pan Asian vegetarian fare , there are a plethora of cafes and fine dining restaurants to cater to every palate. The famous local desserts like ice kacang and cendol are not to be missed, either.

Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi

Berjaya Hills is a resort theme park set in the cool hills above KL, adjacent to the Genting Highlands. Similar to Vietnam’s Ba Na Hills in Danang , it was created in the picture of a European village (in this case, France’s Colmar Tropicale). It’s definitely one of the more touristy places to visit in Malaysia, but if you’re travelling with kids, it’s a fun way to break from the city.

The centre of the small town is dominated by Bavarian-style houses , each containing a restaurant or cafe (most of them dishing up European cuisine). Botanical Gardens and Japanese Gardens , a golf course and a number of shrines are embedded in the forest beyond the town.

Malaysia essentials

Here are some of the resources I use when planning a trip to Malaysia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Malaysia on Kiwi.com , a booking site that mixes and matches airlines to find the best route (if you miss your connection, you get your money back).

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Malaysia and apply for an expedited visa online.

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre-book a private transfer from Kuala Lumpur Airport to your hotel or pre-purchase your KLIA Airport Train tickets online and skip the queue.

SHORT ON TIME? Try this KL layover city tour to see the best of the city in a short period of time.

SIM CARD: Purchase an Airalo eSIM for Malaysia and get instant access to the net when you arrive.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Malaysia on Agoda or book a Malaysia hostel .

BUS & TRAIN TICKETS: Buy your bus or train tickets online in advance using Bookaway .

MARKET TOURS & COOKING CLASSES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Malaysia here on Cookly .

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Malaysia here on Get Your Guide.

MALAYSIA GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Malaysia .

Which of these beautiful places in Malaysia do you want to visit? Do you have any extra recommendations for travellers wondering where to go in Malaysia? Share your best tips in the comments below!

Where to go in Malaysia: Share it on Pinterest

17 comments.

Hai Thanks for sharing the list of places to visit in & around Malaysia it help me as a ready reckoner for me to visit the places. I’m planning to visit the incredible country Malaysia Truly Asia in the coming Yr.2024 Thanks once gain !

So nice of you. Very good explanation and beautiful places you mentioned.

So many great places in Malaysia that I missed. I will just have to go back soon!

Ahhh you and your photos make Malaysia seem absolutely incredible and enticing. I hope one day I can go to every one of these places. It’s hard to pick a top place, though. Maybe Kilim Geoforest park or Gunung Mulu National Park? Thank you for this comprehensive post!

So many amazing places I haven’t visited in Malaysia yet! Can’t wait for travel to open up again and explore some of these places. And maybe even go back to places and take better photos;) I’ll keep this list handy for when I do travel.

After reading your post, I am dying to visit Malaysia. I hope I start travelling soon after everything settles down. I am saving this post for future reference.

Thanks for this comprehensive blog! I’ve had Ipoh on my list for some time now, but I see I need to add sooooo many more places thanks to your blog 🇲🇾Pinning & saving it for future travel inspo.

Thanks Shelley! Ipoh is my favourite place in Malaysia for sure 🙂

Malaysia is such an incredible country! I’ve been twice and there is still so much more for me to explore. Definitely pinning this to reference for my next trip!

All of these spots look so beautiful! Malaysia is next on my Southeast Asia bucket list. I’m definitely keeping this article handy. 🙂

This is such a great post!! I already know that there are so many beautiful places in Malaysia but with this article, I know that I will love this country!

What an awesome list of the best places to visit in Malaysia. I’ve been to Malaysia but I definitely did not see enough. Next time, I’m in Malaysia, I will definitely use this blog!

The most unusual location is the one with the Bavarian-style houses. I had no idea about it!

Thanks for this excellent post!

Thanks Diana! Yes, that’s definitely one of the more out-of-the-box destinations! I love how diverse Malaysia is 🙂

When I backpacked SE Asia, I was only in Malaysia for 2-3 days. This blog post makes me want to go back and spend a whole month there. Thanks for such a comprehensive list!

A month might not even be long enough! There are so many beautiful places in Malaysia; it’s such a diverse country. Definitely worthy of a return visit!

What a cool place! George Town looks really interesting. Thanks for sharing

I’m so bummed I never got to visit Malaysia when I lived in Thailand! It looks amazing and I love how diverse it is! Can’t wait to go back to Southeast Asia and explore all Malaysia has to offer 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

14 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021

Malaysia is a country of contrasts-an eclectic mix of colonial architecture, stunning parks and beaches , contemporary skyscrapers, and a unique landscape covered in tea plantations . A melting pot with influences from neighboring lands, as well as Western countries, Malaysia has something for everybody-from the world-famous Petrona Towers to the cultural and religious diversity that makes this a destination like no other.

Whether you're already planning a trip or just exploring possibilities, here's a list of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur

George town, gunung mulu national park, perhentian islands, borneo rainforest, cameron highlands, taman negara, kota kinabalu, batu ferringhi, malacca city, tioman island, map of places to visit in malaysia.

Malaysia's capital and largest city has much to offer travelers. Perhaps best known for the Petronas Twin Towers (the world's tallest twin towers), KL is a very popular tourist destination and routinely makes the list of top 10 most visited cities in the world.

A mix of colonial, modern, Asian, and Malay architecture flows through the city, giving it a unique look you don't usually find in other Southeast Asian capitals. The National Palace and the House of Parliament are two examples of stunning KL architecture-well worth a look even if you don't plan on exploring inside.

More great things to do while you're in Kuala Lumpur include visiting Merdeka Square, shopping at Chinatown's Petaling Street, and exploring KL Bird Park.

Kuala Lumpur is considered one of the best shopping destinations in Southeast Asia -not only does the city have almost 70 shopping centers, but it's also full of indoor/outdoor markets (like the gigantic Central Market, with over 800 shops and stalls) and a great place to pick up hand-carved wood and pewter.

If you don't mind a quick trip out of town, the massive limestone Batu Caves , home to holy shrines and thousands of bats, are less than an hour away.

The older part of Malaysia's second-largest city has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site-but George Town is just as famous for its food as it is for its architecture. Known as " the food capital of Malaysia ," George Town offers some of the best street food in Asia, best experienced in places like seafront Gurney Drive and Chulia Street, a popular backpacker's destination and one of the oldest streets in the city.

While George Town's port and waterfront area is a tourist's favorite, there's much more to see and do here. The city's tallest skyscraper is home to the U-shaped Rainbow Skywalk , an outdoor glass viewing platform set 68 floors up in the air. For a less nerve-racking view of the city, take the tram up to the top of Penang Hill-the cityscape is particularly beautiful at night.

Less adventurous travelers might want to check out the Batik Painting Museum Penang before they grab some batik souvenirs from a local market, or visit the colorful 19 th -century Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple.

The park, named after Mount Mulu, attracts visitors from all over Asia who come here for trekking, caving, hot springs, and the natural beauty that caused this place to receive a UNESCO World Heritage Site classification.

Climbers can reach the top of Mount Mulu after a 24-kilometer trek with an elevation of 1,200 meters that starts at the park headquarters-but for those looking for a more relaxing day out, there are also easier trails within the park.

The park's main attractions are, however, its caves and the millions of bats that inhabit them. Set deep into the surrounding rainforest and karst cliffs, the caves are record-breakers in several ways-including featuring Southeast Asia's longest cave system and the world's largest cave passage. And at 115 meters high and 600 meters long, Sarawak Chamber is the largest cave chamber in the world, which is tricky to reach and can only be explored as part of a guided tour.

Kayaking, mountain biking, and taking a walk in the 500-meter-long canopy skywalk are also popular park activities.

Because of its location right against the South China Sea, it's perhaps no surprise that Kuantan's main call to fame is its beaches. Teluk Cempedak Beach is just minutes from the city center and offers a tree-lined, clean shoreline, while nearby Cherating Beach is home to a turtle sanctuary , as well as a cultural village that produces and sells traditional batik .

The Sungai Pandan Waterfall and Esplanade Park -from which you can take a boat to get a completely different view of the city-are also popular attractions and offer plenty of chances to explore the surroundings and hike or swim.

The Tin Museum , located on the site of a former massive underground tin mine, is a unique attraction worth a visit. Nearby, visitors will also find a hanging rope bridge and the Charah Cave complex (be prepared for an hour-long hike among tropical palm trees to reach the caves), which houses a large reclining Buddha.

These coral-fringed, secluded islands offer plenty of opportunities for kayaking, exploring, snorkeling , and scuba diving (including the popular site of a sugar hauler wreck), as well as a chance to volunteer with local organizations in green and hawksbill turtle conservation efforts.

The islands have remained underdeveloped, which means no major hotels, restaurants, or facilities are available on the island. For those wanting to stay overnight, there are a couple of guesthouses and homestay options but little else.

Jungle trekking is another major draw, as paths here zigzag through the islands, connecting beaches with each other and cutting through dense forests where monitor lizards and monkeys live. Paved trails also connect Coral Bay with a nearby beach, as well as a picturesque fishing village.

The island of Borneo (which is divided and belongs partly to Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei) is densely covered in one of the oldest rainforests in the world and serves as a natural refuge for endangered species, such as the eastern Sumatra rhino and the Bornean orangutan.

If you want to see orangutans up close while supporting a good cause, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center is the most eco-friendly way to do just that.

Visitors go to Borneo for the rich indigenous culture, the jungle wildlife, and some of the best wild trekking in the world-much of which can be explored at the Rainforest Discovery Center , an educational destination that provides a great introduction to the island.

For those looking for more active pursuits, the two-day climb up Mount Kinabalu is a popular option.

A group of 99 islands off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is home to three protected Geoforest parks and many coconut tree-lined shores that are among the best beaches in Malaysia . Some beaches, like Pantai Cenang beach, are very popular with tourists, while beaches on the smaller northeastern islands have a backdrop of limestone cliffs and are more secluded.

For the best views of the islands and ocean, you can take the island's cable car to the top of one of the tallest mountains on the island. Once here, you can get on the 125-meter-long Langkawi Sky Bridge , a pedestrian walkway 660 meters above sea level. Just a few minutes from the cable car there's also the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls , which offer beautiful clear pools for swimming, as well as a jungle trail that runs up two different mountains.

The small museum and rice fields at the Laman Padi Rice Garden make for an interesting quick stop, while the 50-acre Legenda Langkawi Park offers a great space to explore the heritage and history of the area through manicured gardens, traditional buildings, and sculptures of ogres, mythical creatures, and other Langkawi folkloric figures.

The Cameron Highlands is a hilly region with a long tradition of tea growing on the sloping mountainside. The tea plantations are still a major attraction today and one of the most photographed spots, but the Cameron Highlands are also home to lavender and strawberry farms; orchards; herbal gardens and nurseries; and the Mossy Forest boardwalk, an always-foggy tropical evergreen environment with designated footpaths to see the local flora and fauna up close.

If you only have time to visit one plantation, BOH Tea Plantation is a good choice-not only is this the largest producer of tea in Malaysia, but visitors can also join tours to see the tea-making process up close, visit the gift shop, and explore the walkways that cut through the land.

For an inside look into the agricultural and farming practices in Malaysia, the Mardi's Agro Technology Park is an unexpectedly fun destination where you can tour the fruit orchards (including a large area dedicated to the unusual jackfruit) and even camp overnight.

Or visit the only memorabilia museum in Malaysia, The Time Tunnel , where you can see recreated rooms and shops from the early 20 th century, play vintage board games, and see photographs from pre-War days .

A protected area inhabited by a 130-million-year-old deciduous rainforest, Taman Negara offers activities and attractions to last for days. In addition to jungle trekking and bird-watching, visitors come here to climb Mount Tahan (considered one of the hardest hikes/climbs in Malaysia), try the canopy walkway, or jump on the Lata Berkoh river rapids.

Exploring the entire Gua Telinga limestone cave system would take weeks, but it's possible to join individual guided tours to see the main caves here, where you'll have to crawl, squeeze, through tight underground tunnels, and likely get wet to reach the main chambers.

The park is home to a number of endangered species, including the Malayan tiger and the Malayan peacock-pheasants-a rare sight of either one is an experience in itself.

Located against the South China Sea, the capital city of Kota Kinabalu or KK occupies the northern section of Borneo and is surrounded by virgin forest and large mountain ranges.

Nearby Mount Kinabalu (from where the city gets its name), is Malaysia's highest mountain and a highly regarded climbing destination . Because the mountain has protected status and is home to many endangered species (including orangutans and the giant vine known as Rafflesia-with five-petaled flowers that can reach up to one meter in diameter), climbing is only possible in the company of park rangers.

The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is another important tourist attraction-a park that covers almost five hectares and spreads over five islands. It offers visitors chances to sunbathe on the sloping, white, sandy beach ; explore the coral reefs ; or take to the many hiking trails that cut through the dense tropical forest.

For those interested in exploring the cultural side of KK, must-sees include the Sabah State Museum, Merdeka Square (where the declaration of Independence took place), and Monsopiad Cultural Village , where visitors can learn more about ethnic local groups.

Technically a suburb of George Town, Batu Ferringhi is a famous beach destination for both locals and foreign visitors with plenty to offer to both sunbathers and those looking for an active holiday under the sun.

Rocky outcrops and high-end resorts line the turquoise coastline here, and visitors have a chance to try parasailing and windsurfing or rent a jet ski right on the beach.

Once the sun comes down, Batu Ferringhi's most popular attraction is its night market, where travelers can get as much batik, handmade souvenirs, and local handicrafts as their heart desires.

Food stalls at the market offer the best chance in town to try traditional Malay food in a lively, colorful atmosphere of vendors and live entertainment. There's also a batik factory in town if you want to see how this unique painting technique works.

For a peek into Malaysia's jungle paradise, head to the Tropical Spice Garden , an eight-acre park with lush hiking trails, waterfalls, and an herbal garden.

The third-largest city in Malaysia is famous for its colonial-era architecture, traditional cuisine (which combines influences of Chinese, Indian, and Malay food), and beautiful unspoiled nature. Ipoh's Old Town is near the Kinta River, and it's a great place to see Chinese shophouses and the narrow "Concubine Lane," a chic area full of restaurants, pop-up stalls, and gift shops.

Ipoh's most unique feature, however, is its street art in the form of large murals drawn on buildings and bringing Ipoh's heritage to life.

While in town, make some time to stop by the Birch Memorial Clock Tower for some great pictures; visit D. R. Seenivasagam Park to see the Japanese Gardens ; or experience thrill rides at the Sunway Lost World of Tambun; a theme park that also features hot springs, a water park, and an adventure area offering ziplines and climbing walls.

Malacca City has been an important port town since the 15th century, though today it's best known for its colorful heritage buildings and fun cultural attractions. This quaint city is best explored on foot, so you can truly appreciate the eclectic mix of colonial and Peranakan architecture all around.

Malacca's main attraction is its picturesque waterfront, where you'll find plenty of lively cafés, entertainment venues, and places to visit. For example, there's the 17th-century Stadthuys building, which once served as the official residence of governors and now houses the Museum of History & Ethnography.

Jonker Street, in the heart of Chinatown, has a lively night market on weekends; great street food; and a number of important buildings, including the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum, spread over three restored townhouses, and Malaysia's oldest Chinese temple, Cheng Hoon Teng.

Not far from here is the terra-cotta-red Christ Church Melaka, a Dutch structure dating back to the 1750s and one of the most famous landmarks in Malacca City. Other great places to visit include the Melaka Sultanate Palace and the A'Famosa Fort ruins.

Tioman is the default destination for those looking for a simpler, rougher beach life - a place where beaches remain underdeveloped, there are few roads, and you're likely to share the sand with the occasional macaque or other wildlife as you walk around the island.

Air Batang or ABC Beach attracts mostly budget travelers and offers excellent sunsets, while Juara Beach is quiet and perfect for swimming. For great snorkeling, head to Salang Beach instead.

For non-divers, Tioman Island is also a great starting point for kayaking, and it's filled with jungle trekking opportunities. Organized tours can take you snorkeling to Marine Park and Ringgis islands, and there are also special organized trips to visit Benut Beach, a turtle sanctuary.

Malaysia Tours & Trips

• Choose from 50+ Malaysia tours
• 250+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

Table of contents

The best Malaysia tour packages

What people love about malaysia tours, most popular destinations in malaysia, travel malaysia your way, top operators in malaysia, best places to start your malaysia tour.

• Malaysia tours for every group

Malaysia tours for everyone

Best time to visit malaysia, contact our malaysia travel experts.

Compiled by

Nina Malaysia travel expert at TourRadar

Borneo – East Sabah Adventure

“Everything about this trip was exceptional. G adventures put together a very memorable experience.” Peggy Basubas, traveled in January 2024

• Christmas & New Year
• Cook local dishes with villagers in Tambatuon
• Visit Sepilok's orangutans and sun bears
• Learn about turtle conservation on Libaran Island

Sabah Adventure

“Great variation of activities and options.” Andy C, traveled in December 2018

• Witness the special life cycle of sea turtles coming ashore on Turtle Island
• Spend time getting to know orangutans, proboscis monkeys and sun bears
• Witness a stunning sunrise after a morning hike of Mount Kinabalu

Highlights of Sabah & Mt Kinabalu

“Great trip! Great experience!” André Kohler, traveled in August 2022

• Spot wildlife on a Kinabatangan river cruise
• Climb Mt Kinabalu for a sunrise view

Tailor-Made Private Malaysia Holiday Package, Daily Departure

“It was a very cost-effective Malaysia trip! We had a fantastic time.” Jude Lewis, traveled in June 2023

• Visit Malacca, Kuala Lumpur and Penang to experience their multi-cultures
• Must-go: Cameron Highlands, the largest highland resort in the country
• Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Kuala Lumpur from the Petronas Twin Towers

Tailor-Made Best Malaysia Tour, Daily Departure & Private Trip

• Overlook Kuala Lumpur capital city from iconic Petronas Towers
• Escape group and enjoy personal care of our tailor-made Malaysia family tour
• View Malacca’s historical marvels: Stadthuys, St. Paul's Church & Jonker Street

If you are looking for a nature holiday, I would most defiantely recommend Borneo. Saw all the wildlife I had hoped for and more. Our CEO with G Adventures, Ricky, was fantastic. Helpful, kind, knowledgable and very calm. Always happy to help and answer any questions regarding the wildlife or history of Borneo. The group was also fantastic, full of laid back, like minded, wildlife lovers, from all over the world. Thank you!!

This trip was amazing and exceeded my expectations. I loved the mix of culture, nature, hiking and relaxing.

Really enjoyed everything about the Borneo trip, the guide, Gobert was fun, helpful and pleasant. I would recommend this tour.

Explore Borneo's lush rainforests, home to unique wildlife like orangutans and pygmy elephants. Sipadan Island, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, offers some of the best diving in the world. Hike up Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia for truly breathtaking panoramic views.

Check out Sabah's lush rainforests, packed with wildlife, or tackle Mount Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia's tallest peaks. Dive into crystal-clear waters and discover vibrant coral reefs, or kick back on pristine, sandy beaches. Adventure or relaxation—Sabah’s got you covered!

Mount Kinabalu

Get ready to conquer Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia's tallest summit. Hike through vibrant ecosystems, catch stunning sunrises, and dive into the local culture at the mountain's base. It's an absolute must for nature enthusiasts.

Fully Guided

Select from our extensive range of 77 fully guided tours to enjoy a worry-free experience through Malaysia with our expert guides leading the way.

An Explorer tour in Malaysia promises thrilling adventures and diverse landscapes. Malaysia's vast and varied terrain offers great opportunities for hiking, biking, and discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations, ensuring an exhilarating and unforgettable journey.

Find the perfect tour for your family, catering to all ages with over 68 family tours available in Malaysia.

Partially Guided

Find the right partially guided tour for you in Malaysia. There are 38 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 28 days. The month with the most departures is July, making it the most popular time to visit Malaysia.

More travel styles:

"The Mt kinabalu climb was amazing. Prior to that we did multiple trips over 7 days.The only disappointment was not seeing the turtle's laying eggs as the itinerary stated.

G Adventures is an expert in:

• Hiking & Trekking
• In-depth Cultural

"With great sadness I have to write this review in order to protect other naive and tolerant tourists. The organization and handling of the tour was disturbing, abusive and inappropriate. We have just completed 3 indochina tours with 3 different operators. Interpid failed in every category and ruined our holiday. Everything from safety, transportation, meals, hotels, guides and content was a failure. Greed and luck of common sense prevailed. Safety: disregard for our health and wellbeing: obscure public transportation in covid, bird flue times using buses without Hepa filters, dirty and stinking of old urine. Senior citizens forced to drag laguage via high sidewalks, pt holes,busy streets in the middle of the night and spending almost 3 days traveling on buses!! Nothing to see along highways. Your office misleading and lying about the length of travels. Your (5hrs) is in fact (8hrs, 20 min without any obstacles on the road) Booking bus for ungodly hours and making us sit and wait for the room after very long ,tiring trip on dirty, stinking bus and denying us breakfast, not making arrangements to get us breakfast boxes! Guide lying to operator about us having breakfast!. Arjan did not make any arrangements. Nobody new anything when group showed up. We were told that she was just following Interpid arrangements. How horryfing that you would allow yourself to treat us with such disrespectful abusive way. Hotels: cheap, usually china town, dirty and uncomfortable beds, and pillows. Bayview hotel rooms were horrific with 10 cm of dirt around walls, smelling of vomit and old stinge. The only decent hotel was in Singapore. Meals: virtually nonexistent. The horrible meal Interpid bought at filthy food market in Kuala Lumpur was shameful! Cost you may be 20 dol for 12 people?? Majority was afraid to eat and went hungry, others had gastrointestinal problems after eating in this dirty place. You saved money at the expense of our health! Your guides can not speak proper english to provide information. It was useless to have them, we learned nothing from them so we did not know what we were looking at.You failed to provide this basic tour service as well. Arjan was extremely poor guide. Not helpful, not informed, disorganized. Very stressed.Several times provided us with false information causing stress and discomfort. Not aware what we are to expect at next destinations?! Means you not doing your job that I contracted you to do! As a group we were insulted by your arrogance to think that you will use our hands to clean filthy village in Thailand. Its not about green movement and cleaning beach. Thats not a problem. This village is littered with years of garbage. Thats their way of living, they can sit and drink coffee by piles of garbage, it does not bother them but you think that I paid so much money to go and clean for them? In the high heat and humidity 80 plus seniors cleaning fishing village?? only infantile adult could come up with such insult. You ruined our day and caused great physical and emotional discomfort. We paid for all attractions, and meals out of pocket, all you did was a guide sending text with 10 things to see in a current place. I could do without this text. We got more info from the internet on our own. Bad hotels, no meals, primitive transport, horrible guides: what did We pay you for? You ruined our experience, you insulted us and you endangered our health and wellbeing. The group discussed these issues at the end of tour and we all share these concerns. I know couple of my friends have already written to you but you have dishonorably disregarded the problems. We, my husband and I, demand refund of at least 50% of 7190.00 paid as you failed to provide even basic services. We hold TourRadar responsible for this situation as we purchased this tour through them. Barbara and Krzysztof Flis

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

"We had a great tour in Malaysia, well beyond our best expectations. Raymond, our guide, was amazing

Agate Travel is an expert in:

Choose the city in Malaysia you want your tour to start in:

Kuala Lumpur

Kota Kinabalu

Malaysia tours for every type of group

Who are you traveling with?

Explore Malaysia on a pre-planned itinerary and meet like-minded travelers

• Itineraries between 3 days and 28 days
• Starting from €84 per day

Small Group

Visit Malaysia with fewer travelers, ensuring more immersive activities

• Itineraries between 5 days and 18 days
• Starting from €87 per day

Personalized

Customize your Malaysia itinerary to match your interests and pace

• Itineraries between 5 days and 19 days
• Starting from €42 per day

Visit Malaysia with your own group or solo

• Itineraries between 3 days and 19 days

Discover unforgettable adventures designed for all ages! Whether you're young or young at heart, these tours offer excitement and wonder for everyone.

• September 2024 34 tours
• October 2024 popular 56 tours
• November 2024 56 tours
• December 2024 55 tours
• January 2025 52 tours
• February 2025 popular 60 tours
• March 2025 popular 63 tours
• April 2025 61 tours
• May 2025 59 tours
• June 2025 53 tours
• July 2025 popular 55 tours
• August 2025 55 tours

Expert in Malaysia at TourRadar

Anita is one of our seasoned Malaysia Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Malaysia tours answered!

• Choose from 92+ Malaysia tours
• 288 verified reviews by TourRadar customers

Write us a message

Discover TourRadar

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 55 Places To Visit In Malaysia

Places to See in Malaysia

Quick navigation, must places to visit in malaysia, petronas twin towers.

The twin skyscraper in Malaysia held the rank of the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004 and is currently known as the tallest twin tower in the world. The twin tower KL features diamond – faceted façade containing 83,500 stainless steel extrusions. The towers' interior highlights Malaysia's culture and inspires people through traditional aspects like carvings and fabric.

Top Experiences To Do in Petronas Twin Towers

Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi Cable car is also known as the Sky Cab claims to be the steepest cable car ride in the world; that takes visitors at a height of 708 meters up in the sky, above the sea level. The cable car carries passengers to Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest peak and thus is considered as one of the must-visit Langkawi attractions. On a visit here, tourists are advised to carry a jacket as the elevation in height invites chilled winds. The views from the top of this peak make getting onto this ride absolutely worth it and memorable. Location: Jalan Telaga Tujuh, Kedah Timings: 9:30 am to 7 pm on all days Must Experience:  Snorkeling Tours in Langkawi Click Here to Book:  Langkawi Cable Car Tickets

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Situated at a staggering height of 2,170 feet and hanging in between the two mountains, the Langkawi sky bridge, as the name suggests, makes you witness Malaysian beauty from heavenly heights. You can reach this bridge after ending your sky cab ride, only to witness more enchanting views of the forests and mountains. Stretching up to 410 feet with transparent sections, this bridge gives you a rush of adrenaline with a feeling of almost standing in the sky!

Top Experiences To Do in Langkawi Sky Bridge

KL Tower (Menara)

Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the KL Tower is one of the most popular spots for the locals as well as the tourists. This tower is renowned for being the tallest telecommunication tower in all of Southeast Asia and the 7th tallest tower in the world.

Top Experiences To Do in KL Tower (Menara)

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Beat the heat of Kuala Lumpur and hop in for an extraordinary experience at the magical theme park of Sunway Lagoon. With six different zones featuring thrilling bungee jumping rides to classic turbulence water slides, you are in for a treat. Experience the best of 5D cinematic movies at the waterpark and tune in for a gripping slingshot ride at x park lagoon. 

Top Experiences To Do in Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Aquaria KLCC

The Aquaria KLCC is said to be the world’s largest aquarium, holding over 5000 freshwater and marine creatures, which include massive arapaimas, giant groupers, garfishes and many more. Some of the major attractions of the aquarium are the scary tiger sharks, bright coral fishes, lethal sea snakes, seahorses, and blue rays.

The Aquaria KLCC is one of the foremost tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur involving the real depth and complexity. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia.

Location : The Aquaria KLCC is located on the concourse of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center.

Price : The entry fee approximately starts from 64 MYR for an adult and 53 MYR for a child. Check out Now:   Aquaria KLCC Ticket Price  

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Langkawi  

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a group of five different islands, which include Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug. There are various beach activities that the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes. However, all these beach activities require a prior booking and it is one of the best places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

You can also indulge in various water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and witness the beautiful coral and marine life of the island. The island tours can be booked on the spot from where you will take your ferries.

Location: The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is just 20 minutes boat ride from the Kota Kinabalu.

How To Reach: The Jesselton Jetty ferry terminal consistently operates the boats to the Island, which takes around 20 minutes to reach there.

Price: The approximate cost for the complete tour starts from 53 MYR per adult.

Timings: 8.30 AM to 5 PM Here is the List of  Best  Things to Do in Langkawi Suggested Read: Things to Do in Malaysia

Bako National Park, Kuching

Best of Thailand

Lost World of Tambun

Melaka Historic City

Cameron Highlands

Top Experiences To Do in Cameron Highlands

Langkawi Island

Batu Caves, Selangor

The Batu Caves is located in the Selangor region of Malaysia. It has one of the famous Hindu shrines. The shine is of Lord Murugan resides in these caves. A lot of tourists visit this place as it is a religious site. The natural beauty of this place is mesmerizing. 

This area has innumerable caves that are that are home to many species of animals and insects. This area has many monkeys that often snatch away things from the tourist. The caves are said to be of the 10th century that has slowly developed. The caves are protected by the Malaysian Nature Society. 

There are many transportation facilities available to these caves like trains buses etc from Kuala Lumpur.  The most famous festival of the Batu caves is Thaipusam festival. This is one of the ideal Hindu religious places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur. Click Here to Book:  Kuala Lumpur Suburbs and Batu Caves Day Tour  or  Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur Also Check: Best Beaches in Malaysia

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi

Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak

Best of Bangkok

Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Pulau Perhentian Besar

Taman Negara, Pahang

Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak

The Perhentian Islands

Sungai Kinabatangan, Borneo Island

Penang Hill, Penang

Tioman Island

Sipadan Island

Best of Vietnam

Shangri-La's Orangutan Care Project, Kota Kinabalu

If you are a wildlife enthusiast and love exploring new places, which promote wildlife and its conservation, Shangri-La’s Orangutan Care Project is one that you cannot miss. The project is dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of Orangutans and it is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

It allows the common people to get the deeper insights into the lives of these amazing creatures. You can spend quality time with the Orangutans, get very close to them and even take memorable snapshots.

During your tour, you will be acquainted about the lives of Orangutan through the short videos, both before and after the tour. After the video, you are escorted to the feeding platform, where you are allowed to feed these lovely Orangutans.

The complete duration of the tour is around 1-2 hours. The excitement of the tour burgeons especially when your children accompany with you. Apart from the Orangutans, you also get to see a few more varieties of monkeys inside the care project.

Location: The Orangutan Care Project is located at Pantai Dalit Tuaran in Kota Kinabalu.  You May Also Like:  Activities in Langkawi Click Here to Checkout & Book:  Hop on Hop off KL Price

Pangkor Island

Dataran Merdeka

Legoland Malaysia

Boh Plantation

Must Visit Places in Kuala Lumpur

National Mosque of Malaysia

Best of Singapore

Perdana Botanical Gardens

Islamic Arts Museum

Minnature Malaysia

KL Butterfly Park

Must Visit Places in Langkawi

Dataran lang.

Gunung Raya

Pulau Payar Marine Park

Langkawi Arts in Paradise 3D Museum

Best of Hong Kong

Pantai Kok Beach

Must Visit Places in Kota Kinabalu

Manukan island.

Masjid Bandaraya

Sabah State Museum

Atkinson Clock Tower

Satay Legend Lok Kawi

Must Visit Places in Penang

Arulmigu karumariamman temple.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Best of Kuala Lumpur

Bukit Panchor Forest Park

Clan Jetties

Must Visit Places in Ipoh

Bukit mertajam recreational forest.

KeK Lok Tong Cave Temple

Perak Cave Temples

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Ling Sen Tong Temple

People Also Ask About Malaysia

Which are the best tourist attractions in malaysia to visit at night, what are the best things to do in malaysia, what are the best places to visit in malaysia on honeymoon, which are the best camping places in malaysia, what is malaysia famous for, what are the best beaches in malaysia, what are the best areas to stay in malaysia, where should i go for 3 days in malaysia, is malaysia worth visiting, what are the famous things to buy in malaysia, how to reach malaysia, what is the most popular food in malaysia, what is the best time to visit malaysia.

Trending in Malaysia

Water sports in malaysia.

• Kuala Lumpur

• Kota Kinabalu

Malaysia Top Attractions

A ride on a cable car takes tourists to Langkawi Sky Bridge - a true highlight of the region, elevated at a height of 2300 feet above sea level. From the top of this bridge, the mesmerising views of the rainforest along with the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls make sure to leave visitors spellbound.It attracts nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Here, tourists can also indulge in some shopping at the number of stalls that sell souvenirs, toys, drinks, and snacks. The bridge certainly is one of the top Langkawi tourist attractions.Location: At the end of the cable car, alan Telaga Tujuh Teluk Burau, Langkawi, KedahTimings: 10 am to 10 pmClick Here to Book: Langkawi Cable Car TicketsAlso Read: Things to Do in LangkawiClick Here to book Petrosains Tickets

Dataran Lang, known as eagle square is yet another commonly visited destination amongst many other famous Langkawi places to visit. It has gained popularity for holding the huge sculpture of an eagle, which is considered to be one of the best manmade creations in Langkawi. The statue of the eagle is postured like it is ready to fly and can be spotted from various points in Pulau. To see this 12 meters statue, along with the views of Kuah Bay, tourists have to ride on a ferry.The miniature terraces, footbridges, fountains, eateries all together here make this place apt for a fun-filled day visit trip, enjoyable by all age groups. From eagle square, the view of numerous ferries plying in the ocean has also been appreciated by everybody who has ever visited!Location: Southeast corner of Pulau Langkawi, Kuah JettyTimings: 24 hours a day, every dayHighlightsCapture scenic photos at the Dataran Lang with a backdrop of miniature bridges, fountains, and terraces with your family and friends for a lifetime of memories.Visit after sunset to experience a mesmerising view of the glitzy lights illuminating the Eagle statue and exuding an unforgettable radiance.Stroll through the Langkawi Fair Mall or Cenang night market to explore the souvenirs of Malaysia and indulge in local food which leaves your mouth watering.Enjoy a round of paddle boating with your friends and family at the miniature pond and check out various artistic water features around.Observe the Langawi emblem that resembles the island name’s origin according to the folklore and immerse in its breathtaking beauty.

As one decides to simply stroll through the paths of Langkawi wildlife park and bird paradise, indigenous birds meet along the way. For a closer look, tourists can visit the large enclosed bird-rooms where these numerous species stretch their wings and offer a chance for greater interaction. This would be one of the best tourist places in Langkawi.The park offers services of a guide which tourists can take for better understanding of the park’s wildlife, animals - their habits, patterns, diversity, etc. Here, tourists can buy food for the animals and feed them too!Location: Lot 1485, Jalan Ayer Hangat, Kampung Belanga Pecah, KedahTimings: 8;30 am to 6 pm on all daysSuggested For You: Places to Visit in MalaysiaClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park TicketsClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park Tickets

More Malaysia Attractions

Malaysia travel guides.

Malaysia Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Malaysia

More things to do in malaysia, more on malaysia tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

• +60125134939

Malaysia Deals:- Cheap packages in Malaysia.

USD 623 (based on 2 to go)

USD 398 per pax ( 2 to go)

USD 2,330 per pax (2 to go)

USD 150 per person/ min 2 to go

USD 180 per person (min 2 to go)

USD 1150 per person (min 2 to go)

USD 150 per person (2 to go)

USD 480 per person (2 to go)

USD 100 (2 to go)

Create your Malaysia holiday

Send your message.

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Subject (required)

Your Message (required) 2+1?

Welcome to On Tour Malaysia | Malaysia Local Tour Operator

On Tour Malaysia is Malaysia Local Tour Operator. We provide Malaysia Tour Packages based on our loves towards Malaysia. On Tour Malaysia is a Malaysia-based local tour operator that specializes in providing customized Malaysia tour packages. With a passion for Malaysia and its culture, On Tour Malaysia offers a wide range of programs tailored to suit your interests, budget, and time-frame. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or an adventure, On Tour Malaysia has got you covered. Our itineraries are 100% customizable and flexible, meaning that you can create your own itinerary or choose from one of their pre-designed packages. From exploring the stunning landscapes to trying out the delicious local cuisine, We will help you make the most of your time in Malaysia.

What to do in Malaysia? Where to stay in Malaysia? What to eat in Malaysia? Look no further. You have come to the right site. On Tour Malaysia offers programs as per your interests, time-frame and budget. Our Malaysia’s itineraries are 100% customization and flexible. We operate tours in Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Bali, Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. We have sister companies in Nepal and Indonesia .

Operate by,

On Tour (M) Sdn Bhd [KPK/LN: 10504] [Company No: 202201004941(1450638-V)] Address: 12A – 3B, Jalan PJU 1/3A, Sunway Mas Commercial Center, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. Tel: +60 12-367 9785 / +60 12-790 9055 Email: [email protected] FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

www.ontourmalaysia.com

Malaysia: All about Malaysia

• January 11, 2024

Places to visit in KL for Free is a blog we wrote to give you a guideline to have a great time in Kuala Lumpur without spending money on entrance fees. Discover 15 fantastic spots in Kuala Lumpur where admission is absolutely free! Consider this your easy-breezy guide to enjoying the city’s delights without putting…

Recent Posts

January 5, 2024

April 9, 2023

November 12, 2022

November 6, 2022

Read all the stories

Malaysia Specials: Special Things to do in Malaysia

USD 850 650

USD RM 1800 per van (18 seater)

USD 600 460

Like our page today!

On Tour Malaysia

Subscribe to Us

ontourmalaysia

We are reposting beautiful photos of Malaysia here. Malaysia is a beautiful country.

Our Partners

Nepal Travel Talk

Volunteer Work Nepal

© Copyright: On Tour Malaysia 2024.

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport Guide
• Top Destinations in Malaysia
• Things to Do in Malaysia
• Common Greetings
• Currency in Malaysia
• Scams to Avoid
• Visiting Kuala Lumpur
• Neighborhoods to Know
• Best Hotels
• Public Transportation Guide
• Top Things to Do
• Guide to Malaysian Street Food
• Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur
• Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia's top 10 destinations.

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

The most popular places to visit in Malaysia are stunning — and the country's excellent infrastructure makes getting to them relatively painless.

Although Malaysia is always ranked well among the most visited countries in Asia, China usually steals the limelight and #1 spot. Long-term budget travelers often shun Malaysia as being "too expensive" (mostly because alcohol does cost more than in Thailand). Meanwhile, short-term vacationers in Southeast Asia seem to skip Malaysia for lack of time.

But Malaysia has a lot of beauty, diversity, and adventure on offer, as showcased by these tempting top destinations.

You'll most likely fly into Kuala Lumpur when traveling to Malaysia, so this one's a no-brainer. But unlike some other big cities in Asia where travelers arrive and get out of town as soon as possible, Kuala Lumpur is a worthwhile destination of its own.

The mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influence means you'll have no shortage of culinary exploits in Malaysia's capital city . The cultural diversity is a big part of Kuala Lumpur's allure. Take a short walk or jump on the extensive train network and you can see the delights of numerous cultures.

Kuala Lumpur has no shortage of unique neighborhoods to explore . Interesting sights such as the Petronas Towers , the Perdana Botanical Garden, and the Menara KL Tower provide plenty of enjoyable distractions before you head farther afield in Malaysia.

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Malaysians are proud of their big island on the west coast — and they should be! The colonial city of Georgetown was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has plenty to offer in the way of museums, a seaside fort, historic homes, and most importantly, a famous street-food scene.

Numerous artists have left their marks in the form of murals along the streets of Georgetown. Cafes, shops, and things to do can be found dotted throughout.

Penang is considered one of the best places in Southeast Asia to sample delicious street food of all types. The waterfront esplanade known as Gurney Drive in Penang is lined with stalls and eateries for trying local Malay, Chinese, and Indian treats , among others.

The Perhentian Islands

Backpackers and budget travelers love Malaysia's Perhentian Islands , especially Perhentian Kecil — the smaller of the two islands — where fine sand and excellent snorkeling/diving fill the day before parties start at night.

Nearby Perhentian Besar — the big island — caters more to families, couples, and travelers who are willing to spend more to enjoy the blue water and skip some of the partying. Regardless of the island you choose, getting to the Perhentians requires taking a speedboat. There are a few challenges for setting up shop on the islands .

The Perhentian Islands are very seasonal . Accommodation can be difficult to find on Perhentian Kecil in July, the peak month, but the islands are mostly empty during the winter months due to rain and stormy seas.

Malaysian Borneo

The option to exchange dirty concrete for green rainforests and abundant wildlife is only a cheap, quick flight away ! Visitors to Malaysia often stick to the mainland and forget about the natural wonders on earth's third-largest island only a short hop away.

The Malaysian part of Borneo is divided into two states: Sarawak in the south and Sabah in the north. Both have different vibes and charms . The Rainforest World Music Festival held outside of Kuching each summer is one of the most exciting music-and-culture events in Southeast Asia.

From endangered orangutans to rainforest canopy walks and some of the best diving in the world, Malaysian Borneo should definitely be a part of any trip to Malaysia.

Spelled locally as "Melaka," Malaysia's Peranakan city of Malacca is a worthwhile stop for cultural, historical, and colonial sites . UNESCO even declared Malacca a World Heritage Site in 2008.

Visitors are rarely disappointed by the old town in Malacca. If nothing else, the relaxed vibe is pleasant enough to keep people around for a few days. The close proximity to Kuala Lumpur makes getting there by bus easy. Train isn't an option in Malacca.

Tip: Many shops and museums close in Malacca on Tuesdays — plan your visit accordingly!

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

Taman Negara literally means "national park" in Malay, and well, that's what it is! Taman Negara is Malaysia's oldest national park and is considered to be one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests. A long canopy walkway gives visitors a chance to see life high in the trees that normally isn't visible from the ground.

You can enjoy waterfalls and beautiful trekking, bird spotting, rafting, fishing, night safaris, and there's even a chance to see wild elephants — if you're very lucky. Tourists sleep across the river in Kuala Tahan and then take cheap boats to the park entrance.

Some serious guided trekking is available in Taman Negara as is caving.

Cameron Highlands

Malaysia's green Cameron Highlands are one of the few places in Southeast Asia where you'll actually want a jacket or warm blanket at night. After sweating across tropical climates, you may appreciate the change of climate.

The Cameron Highlands are like nowhere else in Malaysia. You'll see plenty of lush scenery, tour beautiful tea plantations, and enjoy access to decent hiking trails that weave through plantations and around volcanoes.

Strawberry farms, butterfly gardens, and flower greenhouses are all enjoyable distractions to be found in the Cameron Highlands. The climate provides good conditions for growing fresh vegetables and producing delicious local honey.

Tioman Island

Located on Malaysia's east coast not too far from Singapore, Tioman Island is a different kind of island destination . Accommodation and excellent diving are surprisingly inexpensive; development is relatively minimal for such a nice island. Abundant nature and scenery make up for the island's severe shortcomings in the culinary department.

Tioman is carved into many different beaches; you'll have to choose when arriving by boat. Some beaches are secluded and surrounded by jungle. ABC Beach is arguably the most popular beach, particularly for budget travelers. Moving between beaches by boat is the regular option, unless you're up for a jungle hike through the interior.

Tioman Island enjoys duty-free status just as Langkawi does, but don't even consider taking your tax-free liquor across the border into Singapore !

simonlong / Getty Images

Located off the northwest corner of Malaysia, Pulau Langkawi is one of the top island destinations in Malaysia for both foreign tourists and Malaysians.

With an airport and ferries connecting it to the mainland, as well as a large tourist infrastructure, Langkawi could unfairly be called Malaysia's version of Phuket, the busiest island in Thailand.

Langkawi has many tourist attractions on offer such as Malaysia's largest indoor aquarium, a cable car, and the Sky bridge that allows views across the island. Unfortunately, the drone of jet skis cause the busiest beaches to be less serene. Duty-free status means that beer is sometimes barely more expensive than bottled water!

Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi can be found for as cheap as US $20! Getting to the island is fast and inexpensive .

Selangor actually describes Malaysia's most developed and populated state that leads up to Kuala Lumpur's urban sprawl. Here you'll find a Formula One racetrack, the National Zoo of Malaysia, and enormous theme parks including an indoor snow park.

Selangor is busy and booming; shopping malls sprawl in many directions. When you can't possibly shop anymore, head to the nearby Genting Highlands — Malaysia's version of Vegas perched on top of a mountain. The First World Hotel and Plaza is the world's largest hotel with 10,500 rooms and a theme park.

But Selangor isn't just about concrete and glowing signs: The famous Batu Caves there are a Hindu shrine with the largest statue of Lord Murugan (the god of war) in the world. The Batu Caves draw large crowds, especially during the Thaipusam holiday .

When you're ready to be wooed by nature, the abundance of fireflies along the river in Kuala Selangor is a dazzling spectacle worth seeing!

Related Articles

More related articles.

Everything you need to know before visiting Malaysia

Jul 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Malaysia is a beautifully diverse country with tons to see and do – here's what you should know before you go. Mohammad Fahmi Abu Bakar/Shutterstock

Dynamic, multi-cultural and hugely underrated, Malaysia is Southeast Asia 's unsung tropical hero. Marrying tradition, nature and modernity , it's a country of space-age cityscapes, Islamic minarets and gilded Chinese shrines. It's a world where South Indian temples back onto million-year-old rainforests, and this mish-mash can be a lot to process for first-timers.

From what to pack to navigating the nation's ethnic and religious tapestry, these are the top things to know before you embark on a trip to Malaysia – an experience that can often feel like being in several countries at once .

1. Malaysia is a dazzlingly diverse country

Be prepared for many types of culture shock. In multi-ethnic yet predominantly Islamic Peninsular Malaysia, a 69.8% majority of Malay Muslims share the land with ethnic Chinese, Tamil Indians and a dozen aboriginal groups categorized as orang asli (original peoples). This means that red lantern-studded Chinese temples sit next to Hindu gopurams (temple gates) and the onion-shaped domes of intricate, modern mosques. Prayers go up to the sky in three main languages – Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, and Tamil – and to three main religions: Islam, Chinese Taoism and Hinduism.

A short flight away across the South China Sea, the East Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah in Borneo feel like another world. The former has some 26 different ethnic groups, most of whom are Christian or Protestant, while Sabah is home to another 33 who communicate in over 50 languages and 80 dialects.

2. Pack for an eternal summer – but carry a light jacket

Tropical Malaysia enjoys steamy temperatures hovering around 86°F (30°C) year-round . All you really need to pack are light, loose-fitting cotton clothes to best cope with heat and humidity, and a pair of sneakers and flip-flops. If you forget anything, you can pick it up here. Also pack a hoodie or light jacket to prepare for the Malaysian habit of keeping air conditioning to frosty levels, especially inside shopping malls, buses and trains.

3. Technology is widely available…

Kuala Lumpur must be one of the world's most futuristic cities, with ever-expanding highways, towers and skyscrapers eternally contending for space. Beyond the capital, there's excellent 4G mobile network coverage and fast wifi at most hotels and guest houses across the nation. Celcom is the best operator when traveling the Peninsula's jungly interior and Borneo.

4. …but carry cash in the interior

ATMS (cashpoints) are widely available but thin out in the countryside, and they are often hard to find outside of Borneo's main cities. Stock up on the local currency, the Malaysian ringgit, if planning to go off the grid.

5. The food is something to write home about

The delightfully spicy intricacies of Malaysian food (a concoction of curries, southern Chinese cuisines and pan-Indian dishes that never stop intermarrying) are best consumed fresh off the street, served without embellishments by local "uncles" – slang for older person – on plastic plates.

The alternative is to sit and rub elbows with locals at a food court, or "hawker center" – large open areas, usually covered by a rooftop, packed with simple food stalls squeezed one against the other.

6. Dress casual but modest

Due to the constant heat, Malaysia's dress code is very casual. Wearing short pants, sandals, flip-flops and t-shirts is the accepted norm everywhere but is considered rude when visiting public offices, where long slacks, close-toed shoes and collared shirts are expected. In Malaysia's many kampung (villages), avoid revealing outfits to comply with local religious sensibilities.

Modesty is also essential when choosing your beachwear. Bikinis and speedos are fine at big hotels, resorts and the tourist islands off the East Coast, such as Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Redang. But it's best to wear one-piece bathing suits and knee-length swimming trunks on any other beach, where the locals dip fully clothed.

7. Partying is a bit more expensive

Compared to its backpacker-centric Southeast Asian neighbors Thailand , Cambodia and Vietnam , Malaysia is a more expensive party destination because of heavy taxes on alcohol, which is forbidden to Muslims. The rest of the population is free to drink but forced to pay a higher price.

Alcohol is widely available in major tourist cities like Kuala Lumpur , George Town , Ipoh , Melaka and Johor Bahru, while in smaller towns, beer is most often available at Chinese-run businesses. The best antidote to steep drink and cigarette prices is a visit to the tax-free islands of Langkawi and Tioman .

8. It's OK to speak in English if you don't know Malay

Picking up some survival Bahasa Malaysia (Malay language), the national lingo, is pretty straightforward – with its Roman alphabet and absence of tones, it's one of the easiest Asian languages to learn. But it's fine to speak English, especially with Malaysian Chinese and Indians, whose mother tongues are not Malay. Blame it on the British colonization, but practically everyone can communicate in English, and most prefer to do so when talking to foreigners.

9. You might be unknowingly rude

When pointing at someone or something, use the thumb and not the index finger, which is considered rude in Malaysia. Always keep your voice down, for raising the tone is an absolute no-no. Also, asking for help can sometimes be tricky, as many Malaysians take such questions as "losing face" or an invasion of their personal space.

When shaking hands, always remember to use your right hand, for the left is considered "toilet hand" in any Islamic culture. The only dining etiquette that matters in Malaysia is to never use the left hand when trying to eat with fingers like many locals do.

10. Respect nature and its spirits

When a bunch of foreign tourists bared their bottoms on top of Mount Kinabalu in 2015, enraged Kadazan-Dusun locals blamed their act for the consequent magnitude 5.9 earthquake that killed at least 16 and snapped one of the sacred mountain top's two iconic "Donkey Ear" outcrops.

The animist beliefs that predate the arrival of Islam to the Malay Peninsula have helped foster a highly regarded supernatural world in which nature plays a crucial role. For example, it's common to "ask for permission" before urinating in the jungle, from where locals never bring anything back for fear of piggybacking a curse into their own homes.

Whenever a group enters a forest , it's best to give out nicknames or not call out each other at all – spirits are always listening. The orang bunian (invisible forest-dwelling creatures comparable to elves) can trick hikers and campers into following them deep into the jungle to never be seen again.

11. Boil the tap water

Because of increasing pollution of water sources and aging buildings fitted with rusted pipes, it's always best to boil tap water before drinking, or buy mineral water. Most hotels allow guests to refill their water containers. Carrying a water filtration system or purifying tablets can come in handy when striking out on multi-day hikes.

12. Call 999 for any emergency

A single three-digit number, 999, connects to the police, the fire department, the ministry of health, the maritime enforcement agency and the Department of Civil Defence. Dial 999 112 if calling from a mobile phone.

13. Vaccines are recommended

It is advisable to travel to Malaysia after being inoculated against Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid. Malaria is generally not an issue in cities and most forested areas, so a prophylaxis is not strictly necessary. Dengue fever occurs sporadically in cities, but as there are no vaccines for it, the best strategy is to not get bitten by mosquitoes – use heavy-duty insect repellent.

Malaysia is one of Asia's top medical tourism destinations and boasts private hospitals equipped with excellent facilities. Make sure to have proper health insurance coverage, or be ready to pay for the premium.

14. Beware of snatch thieves

Traveling in Malaysia is generally a pretty safe experience for travelers of both sexes, but whether they travel solo or in groups, female travelers should pay attention when walking along the busiest roads of capital Kuala Lumpur. Keep your bags away from the roadside, for motorbike snatch thieves are well-known to target women, and some attacks have resulted in a victim's death.

15. How to travel safely for LGBTQI+ travelers

While a 2021 court ruling suggests change may be afoot, same-sex relationships are not only taboo in Malaysia, they're banned by federal law. For the LGBTQI+ communities here, the golden rule is to avoid publicizing relationships. In fact, public displays of affection are frowned upon in Malaysia in general, no matter your sexual orientation.

16. Drug offenses can get you to the gallows

Stay away from drugs in Malaysia, where 200g of cannabis, 15g of morphine or heroin, and 40g of cocaine mean a death sentence. Offenders are shaken down extremely hard or jailed even for carrying much less.

This article was first published Feb 27, 2022 and updated Jul 25, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Sep 27, 2024 • 9 min read

When to go, how long to stay, and the best things to do beyond the tourist center – our local has all the tips for your first time in Phuket.

Sep 16, 2024 • 10 min read

Sep 4, 2024 • 6 min read

Sep 3, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 20, 2024 • 13 min read

Aug 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 12, 2024 • 12 min read

Aug 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Aug 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 25, 2024 • 10 min read

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Trip.Best: Malaysia

Popular Luxury Hotels in Malaysia

Popular Best Things to Do in Malaysia

Popular Family Hotels in Malaysia

Popular Family-friendly Attractions in Malaysia

Popular Scenic Hotels in Malaysia

Top 11 Night Attractions in Malaysia

Top 18 Cultural Hotels in Malaysia

Popular Water Fun Attractions in Malaysia

Top 16 Instagrammable Hotels in Malaysia

Top 8 Activities in Malaysia

Top 9 Vacation Homes in Malaysia

Top 16 Gourmet Hotels in Malaysia

Popular destinations.

Things to do in Malaysia

Petronas Twin Towers

LEGOLAND Malaysia

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

KL Hop-On Hop-Off

Aquaria KLCC

Kuala Lumpur Tower

Tanjung Aru Beach

Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park

Genting Highlands

What to eat.

BAR TRIGONA

Nobu Kuala Lumpur

Limapulo: Baba Can Cook

THIRTY8 Restaurant, Bar & Lounge

Marini's on 57

Hard Rock Cafe Kuala Lumpur

El Cerdo @ Bukit Bintang

Nam Heong Chicken Rice @Jalan Sultan 南香

Yut Kee Restaurant

Malaysia Moments: Through Travelers' Eyes

Best of Malaysia

Top 13 hotels with villas in malaysia.

Borneo Eagle Resort

The Datai Langkawi

Ambong Pool Villas - Private Pool

Limasan Villa Langkawi

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Gayana Marine Resort

Maneh Villa

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa

La Villa Langkawi - Private Pool

Royale Chulan Cherating Villa

Grand Lexis Port Dickson

Top 20 premium hotels in malaysia.

Resorts World Genting - Genting Grand

Resorts World Genting - Highlands Hotel

Arcadia Beach Resort

Club Med Cherating Beach

PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort

EQ Kuala Lumpur

Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur

Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

Legoland Malaysia Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang

Ascott Kuala Lumpur

Top 20 4-star select hotels in malaysia.

St. Giles Southkey

Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre

Capri by Fraser Bukit Bintang

DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru

Sunway Pyramid Hotel

Avante Hotel

The Luma Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah

Sunway Lagoon Hotel , Formerly Sunway Clio Hotel

Shama Suasana Johor Bahru (Formerly known as Suasana All Suites Hotels Johor Bahru)

Swiss-Garden Beach Resort, Kuantan

Four Points by Sheraton Desaru

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List Your Property
• Become a Supplier

Dive Into Malaysia

How To Plan A Trip To Malaysia: The Ultimate Malaysia Travel Guide!

Do you need to plan your trip to Malaysia? Great! You are in the right place!

In this article, I walk you through exactly how to plan a trip to Malaysia which is perfect for you. I talk about what steps you need to take, how far in advance you should take them as well as break down when the best time is to go to Malaysia, how to get to Malaysia, where to visit, where to stay, how to get around and everything else you could possibly need to know for the perfect break.

I also talk budget and what to pack. Everything you need to know!

If this is sounding overwhelming, don’t worry! I’ll help you plan your own travel Malaysia step-by-step. This handy travel booking list along with the timeframes below will keep you on track.

Because the good news is that it is quite easy to plan a trip to Malaysia by yourself with the information in this article, on this site and with some help of some online booking engines.

We travel to Malaysia multiple times a year and have also lived there. We always arrange everything ourselves – it’s easy, fun and the most cost-effective option. Although if you would rather do a tour to save any hassle then I also have suggestions for that below too!

Ready to get started? Let’s make that Malaysia tour plan!

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!

If you aren’t just interested in Malaysia and wondering how to plan a Singapore/Malaysia trip, this is also covered. If you haven’t yet decided if Malaysia is the right place for you,  be inspired by this list of places to visit in Malaysia!

How To Plan A Trip To Malaysia

The first step in how to plan Malaysia trip is to work out when exactly you will go. If you have set dates, you can skip the next section. Otherwise, I’ll help you decide when to go.

Then I will give you a list of what to book, when and you can read each further section below as you work through your planning list.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now! It’ll help you plan an awesome trip.

I also talk about how to plan a trip to Malaysia in my podcast episode here.

Let Me Plan Your Perfect Malaysia Itinerary!

Want to save time and have the best Malaysia trip ever? Let me create your itinerary for you.

I’ll use my insiders knowledge gained over years of Malaysia travel to help you craft the perfect trip.

Find out more here >

Malaysia Map

But before we start going through everything, here is a Malaysia map. If you aren’t familiar with the geography of Malaysia, you can quickly and easily see where all the places are that we talk about below.

If this is you, I recommend you take a minute to take a good look at this map. You can open it by clicking on it. You can zoom using the controls to get an idea of where all the places mentioned below are. Keep it open while you read the rest of this article.

Basically, there are two parts of Malaysia – peninsular Malaysia which is attached to Asia and is where you will find the capital, Kuala Lumpur, and popular destinations like Langkawi and Penang.

Then there is Borneo or East Malaysia which is a big island a couple of hours flight from Kuala Lumpur. This island is also shared with the countries of Brunei and Indonesia.

When To Go To Malaysia

The good news is that it’s never a bad time to go to Malaysia! It’s always a good time of year somewhere.

One of the major destinations in Malaysia, the capital Kuala Lumpur, does not vary much year round. Singapore is close to the equator and does not vary much either if you plan to add that to your Malaysia trip.

Most other areas have a more distinct monsoon/rainy season and a dry season. It is best to visit in the dry season which is November – March on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia (which includes Penang and Langkawi) and April – October on the east coast (which includes Perhentian Islands and Redang Island) and in Borneo.

On the west coast, it does not matter too much and rainy periods do not tend to last long or cause too many problems. On the east coast, however, it is a different story and many of the islands basically shut down in the monsoon period so it is best to avoid this area then.

Other things to take into account are school holiday periods in Malaysia and Singapore. These fall from mid November to the start of January and there are shorter periods in March, May/June and July/August. See the latest ones here .

Finally, “the haze” is a problem that occurs annually around June – November thanks to pollution from fires in Indonesia. The affect of this is variable – sometimes it is minor and won’t affect your travel. Other times, the pollution can be quite bad especially in areas like Singapore and Malaysia.

Peak tourist times are December, January and Chinese New Years. Expect things to fill up quicker and be pricier at these times so it’s especially important to book ahead.

Here is a full article  with more specific details about the best times to visit Malaysia in different parts of the country.

Travel Booking List And Countdown

Malaysia does not tend to get booked out completely but there are definitely times when it pays to book in advance which is mainly in the peak tourist season in December and January. If you are visiting for an event or festival, like Chinese New Years, it is also important to book in advance.

However, you are generally best off booking flights and accommodation 6 – 12 months in advance for the best deals. There can be a big cost saving on flights particularly when they are booked far in advance especially if you want to go in the peak tourist time or school holidays.

6-12 months in advance:

• Book international flights
• Get travel insurance
• Plan itinerary
• Book any domestic flights
• Consider booking accommodation and any tour packages

3 – 6 months in advance:

• Book accommodation if not booked yet including overnight tours ( like these )
• Work out how you will get around Malaysia, book car hire if necessary and any remaining domestic flights

1 month in advance:

• Get visa if necessary
• Work out how you will access money
• Book attractions and tours
• Book bus tickets
• Book airport transfers or plan how you will get to your hotels
• Work out sim card for phone
• Make sure you print out or have easy access on your phone to all bookings

1-2 days in advance:

• Fill in the online form for your digital arrival card. All foreign travellers must do this up to 3 days before arrival.

How To Travel To Malaysia

Unless you are from or visiting a neighbouring country, you are most likely flying into Malaysia. Thankfully, this is usually quite easy with Kuala Lumpur being a major hub. There are also international airports in other parts of the country like Langkawi and Penang but options are usually limited and this tends to only work if you are flying from a neighbouring country.

Even if you are coming from nearby, like Thailand, flight deals can be very good so it can be worth flying over the extra hassle of overland transport.

Best Flight Deals To Malaysia

To find the best flight deals to Malaysia, I recommend using  Skyscanner  or  CheapOair  which will give you a good comparison of all available options.

Skyscanner is particularly good for searching for the cheapest days to fly and you can also set up price alerts so it will email you if the price changes.  Click here to give it a go.

CheapOair is a better choice if you are looking for business or first class flights. Click here to do a search.

There are two major airlines based in Malaysia: AirAsia (budget airline) and Malaysia Airlines  and these can be convenient options especially if you want to connect to a domestic Malaysia flight. However, many great airlines fly to Malaysia and it’s not necessary to travel one of the local airlines.

I highly recommend you listen to my podcast episode here where I walk you through how to get the best flight deals as well as many things to consider when flying to this part of the world.

It can often be cheaper to book flights to Kuala Lumpur separate to any domestic flights.

It’s also worth considering flying into Singapore instead especially if you want to visit Johor Bahru or Tioman Island. Flights to Singapore can be cheaper and there can be more options too.

If you want to visit Singapore on your trip as well as Malaysia , this is particularly a good option but there are also many flights from Singapore to different locations in Malaysia and it’s easy to go straight from the airport across to Johor Bahru in Malaysia as well.

In fact, you can book a taxi directly from Singapore airport to Malaysia here.

If you have plenty of time before you plan to travel, are flexible with dates and live in Asia or Australia, then signing up for the  AirAsia newsletter  is a great idea. There can be some great sale fares but you do need to be ready to book the second they come out as they usually sell out fast.

If you are in a neighbouring country, it’s also easy to travel overland into Malaysia.

There are buses, trains and boats between Malaysia and Thailand. The most frequent and often easiest option is by bus.

Hat Yai, in southern Thailand, is a common point to get buses into Malaysia (and they leave frequently) although there are many places from which you can travel to Malaysia.

Click here to look for tickets now.

It’s also possible to get a train into Malaysia. You will first need to catch a train in Thailand to the border with Malaysia at Padang Besar. From here, you can catch a second train to Alor Setar (for Langkawi), Butterworth (for Penang) or all the way to Kuala Lumpur.

You can also take a ferry, There are regular fast ferries between Satun in Thailand and Langkawi ( find times and ticket prices here ). In high season, there can be boats operating to Koh Lipe in Thailand from Langkawi as well ( timetables here ).

It’s very easy to travel between Singapore and Johor Bahru in Malaysia with frequent buses to many places in the country.

It’s also possible and very easy to take taxis between the two countries which is what I do and recommend. You can book a taxi here and be picked up at your hotel or airport and taken anywhere in Malaysia.

There is also a train from the Woodlands Train Checkpoint across to Johor Bahru although a bus or taxi is more convenient.

Find more details on exactly how to do this here.

It’s possible to take ferries between Indonesia and Malaysia. If you are in Kalimantan (the Indonesia part of Borneo) then it’s also possible to bus to Malaysia from Pontianak ( timetable and prices here ).

Most ferries depart from Sumatra in Indonesia and arrive in Melaka and Penang. There are also ferries from the islands of Bintan and Batam to Johor Bahru or Tarakan in Kalimantan to Tawau in Sabah, Borneo.

Brunei is surrounded by Malaysia in Borneo and it’s easy to travel between the two. There are buses or you can take a ferry from Brunei to Pulau Labuan which is a Malaysian island just off the coast of Borneo.

Find ferry information here and bus information here.

Passports And Visas

If you are from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA or the EU you do not need a visa at time of publishing. Many other nationals do not need visas either for stays for up to 90 days. However, it is best to always check this for yourself.

Your passport does need 6 months validity at the time you enter so get a new passport before you go if this is an issue.

You also need to fill in an online form here up to 3 days before entering the country. You can’t do it any earlier and all foreign travellers need to do this.

This is a new requirement that came into effect on 1 December 2023. It will give you a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).

When entering, if you talk to an official and you plan to stay in the country for more than 30 days, ask for 90 days entry. Sometimes, they will give you less than the allowed 90 days if you do not ask.

When travelling to Sabah and Sarawak (which are Borneo), your passports will be inspected again.

Money In Malaysia

The Malaysian currency is called the ringgit (RM) and there are many ATMs around which is the best (and usually cheapest) way to get cash. You will need to carry around this currency as it’s rare for anything else to be accepted. You can use credit cards at many places as well.

Note that your card from home can have some killer fees when it comes to using it overseas.

I highly recommend you consider getting a Wise multi-currency account. It’s free and makes it super easy and cheap for you to exchange your currency for ringgit or other currencies when you travel. You can use the card at ATMs as well.

Click here for more information.

Where To Go And Malaysia Itineraries

The hardest part of how to plan a trip to Singapore and Malaysia is likely to be working out where you can go. There are many great options!

The most popular places are:

• Kuala Lumpur  – the capital and largest city with many attractions and things to do
• Penang – an island with an interesting history, UNESCO listed old town, beaches and great food
• Langkawi – a popular island for beaches and relaxing with the best resorts in the country and some good attractions
• Johor Bahru – a popular starting point from Singapore especially for families as it’s home to Legoland Malaysia
• Melaka – close to Kuala Lumpur, this is a great destination to learn more about the mixed history of Malaysia
• Cameron Highlands – cool down in the highlands with beautiful views, tea plantations and many farms and low key attractions
• Tioman Island – a popular beach and diving destination from Singapore
• Perhentian Islands – some beautiful beaches and good diving off the east coast of Malaysia
• Sabah – this fantastic state in Borneo is full of amazing wildlife and natural attractions
• Kuching – the capital of Sarawak in Borneo, there are many amazing day trips to enjoy cultural, natural and wildlife attractions from this pretty, riverside city
• Singapore  – yes this is its own country and not in Malaysia, but combining a trip to Malaysia with Singapore is a popular option and worth considering

There are also many other fabulous places to visit in Malaysia which I recommend you consider if you have more than two weeks. However, if it’s your first trip and you have up to two weeks, these places are your best bet.

As a general rule, I recommend 3 days per place minimum. You can adjust this based on whether you are someone who likes to take it easy when you travel or like to go quick and see as much as possible.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

You can also  find some itineraries combining Malaysia and Singapore here and more Malaysia itineraries here . You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, just use one of mine!

If you are looking for some destinations to add to your travel planner Malaysia which are slightly less popular, consider making the journey to Borneo and exploring the states of Sabah and Sarawak and perhaps adding Brunei . I only recommend this if you have at least a week available and I would only visit one state with just a week.

Some other destinations in peninsular Malaysia worth considering are:

• Ipoh – known for its street art and amazingly good food
• Redang Island  – beautiful beaches and some solid resort options on the east coast if you would like something less popular than Tioman and the Perhentians
• Port Dickson – if you don’t have long in Malaysia and want a beach destination convenient to Kuala Lumpur

Recommended Group Tours In Malaysia

If you would rather just enjoy your holiday while not worrying about the details, a group tour is an excellent option. Here are some recommend options…

Trafalgar Tours

Trafalgar Tours is the best choice if you want everything taken care of on a bus tour.

They offer a great tour program in Malaysia and Singapore which you can see here.

Click here to find more information about Trafalgar Tours.

G Adventures

I have done a couple of G Adventures tours and love them because they are good at making things easy for you while still getting you to out of the way destinations and giving you local experiences as well as giving you some time by yourself if you want it.

The groups tend to be small with a maximum of 15 travellers making it easier to visit places and keep things local.

Click here to see G Adventures tours in Malaysia.

Intrepid Travel

I have done a few Intrepid Travel tours as well and I love how many of them use public transport and put an emphasis on local experiences while keeping everything hassle free with your own tour guide.

They have an average group size of 10 which works well compared to big bus tours.

Click here to find more Intrepid Travel tours.

Customised Tour Packages

A great alternative to group tours and booking accommodation and attractions separately is to purchase customised tour packages.

We have some great Malaysia tours and experiences that you can book through us. These enable you to save money and effort by combining accommodation, transport, meals, activities and more to make your trip super easy and comfortable.

In fact, some attractions in Malaysia you can only visit this way. Some attractions and activities also limit numbers (like Turtle Island in Sabah) so booking a tour this way is the only way to experience.

You can see all our special tours for Dive Into Malaysia readers here.

Accommodation In Malaysia

One of the reasons we love Malaysia is because of the huge range of accommodation available for all budgets and what great value it is. This is somewhere where you can find a 4-star over water chalet for under $100 a night!

Budget hotels abound and there are hostels for people on low budgets. Cheap hotels tend to still be clean and a reasonable standard, just basic.

Midrange options are excellent and this is somewhere I recommend you aim to pay for at least this if you can. Often you can find solid midrange options for around $50.

Finally, on the upper end, there are some truly amazing resorts and hotels which can be incredibly good value. The best options are in the most visited places of Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Miri, Kuching and Port Dickson. If you go to less busy places, there can be a lack of really great accommodation so if 5 star resorts with great service are important to you then the places just mentioned are your best bet.

Note that Malaysia has a tourism tax for foreigners of RM10 per night. From the 1 January 2023, you may need to pay this when you check in to your hotel if you didn’t pay when booking.

Best Accommodation Booking Sites

I highly recommend  Agoda  for booking accommodation in Malaysia.

It usually has the best price and has a rewards scheme where you quickly gain credit to use towards your next booking. In fact, if you pay upfront, often you get the credit straight away so you can use it for your next hotel booking.

Agoda also has a great range of accommodation in Malaysia including private home and apartment rental.

Click here to start searching now.

Booking.com  also tends to have similar prices but without the rewards. It has less options in Malaysia as well. If you would like to check it out as well,  click here.

Airbnb is also possible here for people who like to stay in apartments and homes and we have stayed in some great deals in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

I find  TripAdvisor  useful for looking at reviews for hotel options to double check they are good quality.

Note that there is a tourist tax of RM10 a night which is often not added to your hotel cost until you arrive at the hotel. This is not a scam and needs to be paid.

We have many hotel guides to help you book your perfect stay. Here are some of them:

• Best resorts in Malaysia
• Best beach resorts
• Best resorts for families
• Resorts with private pools
• Best resorts in Langkawi
• Best hotels in Kuala Lumpur
• Best hotels in Penang
• Best hotels on Pangkor Island
• Best hotels in Ipoh
• Best hotels in Taiping
• Best hotels in Cameron Highlands
• Best hotels in Johor Bahru
• Best hotels in Desaru
• Best hotels in Melaka
• Best hotels in Muar
• Best resorts in Redang
• Best resorts on Tioman Island
• Best resorts on Perhentian Islands
• Best hotels in Kota Bharu
• Best hotels in Kuala Terengganu
• Best hotels in Taman Negara
• Best hotels in Kota Kinabalu
• Best hotels in Sandakan/Sepilok
• Best hotels in Semporna
• Best hotels in Tawau
• Best hotels in Labuan
• Best hotels in Miri
• Best hotels in Bintulu
• Best hotels in Sibu
• Best hotels in Kuching

You can also listen to my podcast here about booking accommodation, tours and attractions in Malaysia.

How To Get Around Malaysia

There are a few options for getting around Malaysia. All are quite easy!

Buses in Malaysia go most places and can be great quality between cities and towns. They are usually quite quick and are easy to book online or on arrival. Booking before you go can help you save time when you are there and ensure you get a bus at the perfect time.

However note that if you don’t see any buses scheduled on your dates that you may be looking too early. They often only appear 1 – 3 months before the travel date. Looking at closer dates can help give you a good idea of when they may run on your travel dates.

Click here to see bus timetables, prices and to book your bus.

Train is also a good option although it is more limited than bus in both routes and frequency. Trains can be tough to work in to your schedule if you have limited time.

The main routes are from:

• Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur (switching trains at Gemas)
• Johor Bahru to Tumpat. This is also known as the jungle line and takes you through the middle and up the east coast of Malaysia
• Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (for Penang)

Click here to see train timetables, prices and to book.

Buses can be more comfortable and luxurious and I recommend them over the trains unless you are a train lover.

3. Shared Taxi

Shared taxis are also an option over longer distances. You pay for your seat and they leave when they are full. I prefer buses as they can be more comfortable but a shared taxi can be faster if you don’t wait too long for them to fill up.

4. Private Taxi

It’s possible to hire private taxis to take you anywhere in Malaysia. This is generally more expensive than the other options on this list but it depends how many people you have. This can be a great option for families.

The good news is that for foreigners, private taxis between towns and cities can be very affordable.

You can simply take a shared taxi and buy all seats or arrange one beforehand.

You can click here to book a taxi through this site . We work with local operators to give you a great price and reliable service.

5. Car hire

Car hire is a fun and easy way to explore the country. We find driving in Malaysia quite easy and it is our preferred option along with private taxi . It can be cost effective for families or bigger groups and it also gives you more freedom.

You can find more information on driving in Malaysia including road rules here.

Click here to check out car rental prices.

If you plan on visiting an island in Malaysia, you will probably need to take a ferry. These tend to run frequently to popular choices and be easy and good value.

You can find ferry timetables and book tickets for many popular routes here.

Finally, flying is a great option within Malaysia. Domestic flights can be as cheap as a few dollars during sales but even outside of sale periods, they tend to be a bargain.

Flights are especially a good idea for covering a larger distance and when you are short on time. So, for example, if you are visiting Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur, I would definitely fly. Or maybe, you are visiting Penang and Kuala Lumpur and a few places along the way. Going overland one way and then flying the other could make sense.

It’s also necessary to fly if you want to travel from peninsular Malaysia to Borneo. This is the only way to make this journey. Flights tend to be a great deal between these points as well and you can fly to Borneo from a few points in Malaysia like Johor Bahru, Penang and Langkawi so you don’t necessarily have to go via Kuala Lumpur.

Click here to check out flight prices.

You can also listen to my podcast here about the best ways to get around Malaysia.

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.

Attractions And Tickets

While the only attraction you need to book in advance is the  Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur , many attractions in Malaysia have much cheaper prices if you book them in advance on  Klook .

Klook is a trustworthy site we use all the time for attractions, tours and activities as it has the best prices and is always very easy to use.

I highly recommend that once you have your itinerary, you go through Klook and book tickets for any attractions you want to visit, particularly big ones like  Legoland Malaysia  or  Sunway Lagoon .

Klook is also great for tours. A tour is invaluable for finding out more about the places you are visiting. Or, in the case of Malaysia, for getting you out and tasting the best food!

Some tours we particularly recommend:

• Melaka Day Tour – If you don’t have time to stay in Melaka, visit with this easy day tour from Kuala Lumpur
• Kuala Lumpur Food Tour – Visit local neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur while trying the best food on offer. Use code DIVE30 to save RM30
• Batu Caves – Visit this top attraction near Kuala Lumpur easily on this tour
• Simply Enak KL Food Tour – Amazing food to try on this tour of the best of Kuala Lumpur
• Kuala Lumpur City Tour – Explore and learn more about the capital of Malaysia
• Penang Heritage Tour – See and learn about UNESCO listed George Town
• Penang Hill And Temple Sightseeing – Visit Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple
• Simply Enak Penang Food Tour – Amazing food to try on this tour of the best of Penang. Use code DIVE30 to save RM30
• Langkawi Island Hopping Boat Tour – The scenery in Langkawi is stunning and this is the best way to relax and enjoy it
• Langkawi Helicopter Tour – Don’t miss the chance to see Langkawi from the air!

Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience in KL?

Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!

There are three different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food, nightlife or off the beaten track places.

No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Kuala Lumpur.

There’s no better way to discover this great city.

Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour.

Click here for all your option s .

Airport Transfers And Arrival

Arriving in Malaysia is straightforward but it can be daunting the first time, especially if you have a long flight.

You can read  our guide here  about getting from KL Airport to KL Sentral in the city centre.

On arrival at either terminal in Kuala Lumpur, you can follow signs to get to transportation hubs and buy a coupon for a taxi to your hotel. You can also use the Grab app to book yourself a taxi. It works the same as Uber.

However, if you would like to just arrive and not think at all, I recommend booking a transfer in advance, especially if you have a long journey to get to Malaysia. Here are some options:

• Kuala Lumpur Airport
• Penang Airport
• Langkawi Airport

If you want to go straight to another city on arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (like to Melaka, Cameron Highlands, anywhere 🙂 ), we can book a long distance taxi for you which will pick you up directly at the airport and drop you at your hotel.

Click here for the latest prices.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is invaluable. You just never know what will happen!

A few years ago, I broke my leg getting into the shower in Thailand. Doctor and hospital visits, tests then needing to cut our trip short and get a direct flight home added up and it was great to have travel insurance take care of it all – especially when they even paid for me to get home in business class and I was able to talk to an Australian doctor about what was going on.

In my opinion, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

I recommend buying travel insurance as soon as you book your flights as they will start covering you for some problems from that point.

We have a few recommended options depending on your country of origin:

• Cover-More for Australians here
• Cover-More for New Zealanders here
• VisitorsCoverage for US travellers here

If you are coming from Europe or elsewhere, World Nomads is our recommended option and  you can get a no-obligation quote here.

Malaysia Travel Costs

Malaysia can be as cheap or as expensive as you want. The best part is that Malaysia is very good value, so while it may not be as cheap as some nearby countries, you do tend to get more for your money.

Some sample budgets for two people:

Budget travellers: RM200 a day

Mid-range travellers: RM300-600

High-end travellers: RM700+

Of course, budgets will vary due to many factors like how often you move around, how many places you want to visit, how much you like to drink alcohol (relatively expensive) and much more. These are rough estimates only to help you plan.

It’s also worth noting that you can get incredible food for cheap so there really is no need to spend a lot on that as long as you are happy eating the local cuisines.

What To Pack

The good news is that Malaysia is basically always hot and humid – so you can leave all the heavy sweaters and coats at home!

However, this doesn’t mean you should just pack shorts and tank tops.

It’s important to always be respectful to local culture when it comes to how to dress and beach attire is definitely best suited to the beach or your resort. Malaysia is majority Muslim and local people tend to cover up.

You do not need to keep covered but it is a good idea to keep your shoulders covered and, in more conservative areas on the east coast, I recommend covering your knees too. Lightweight, light coloured clothing is the best.

You can buy anything you need in Malaysia very easily and we often buy our toiletries when we get there because they are cheaper than at home! The one exception to this is sunscreen – it’s expensive. We even had my mum bring it over for us when we were living in Malaysia!

Other essential items:

• Umbrella or rain coat – rain can be sudden and heavy
• Good walking shoes that have good grip on wet surfaces. Preferably sandal style
• Scarf or sarong to cover up when going in mosques and some temples
• Plug Adapter – Malaysia uses a UK plug
• Power cube – so you can charge all your electronics in one place

Internet And Phone Coverage

Many accommodation providers and some restaurants will have wifi for keeping in touch with home. However, we always buy a local sim card so we don’t have to worry and because they are so cheap and easy.

You can get one at the airport in minutes and  even buy one beforehand here.

You can read our  full article about getting a sim card in Malaysia here.

Other Things To Consider

• While the majority of Malaysia has a Monday to Friday working week, some states follow a Sunday to Thursday working week. This occurs in Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu. There are usually still shops open but if you want to visit attractions like museums on a Friday, check they are open before you go.
• As mentioned above, there is a tourist tax on accommodation which is currently RM10 per night. This is paid at the hotel.
• Alcohol can be relatively expensive in Malaysia. If you are coming from a western country, it is unlikely to be so bad but it will seem expensive if you are coming from a neighbouring country like Thailand. It is also not that readily available thanks to the Muslim culture. Langkawi and Tioman Island have duty free status and alcohol is much cheaper.
• Ramadan is a period of fasting for Muslim people where they don’t eat during daylight hours. However, it is usually not hard for visitors to find somewhere to eat thanks to the sizeable Chinese and Indian communities who do not observe Ramadan. Those restaurants will generally still have normal opening hours.
• Foreigners pay more for many attractions in Malaysia. You will notice a “MyKad” price and a regular price. MyKad is just for Malaysians. It’s just how it is.
• Food in Malaysia is awesome!! Read our full food guide here and bookmark it for your trip.
• Download the Grab app before you go. This is just like uber and is generally the cheapest and easiest way to get taxis within a city/town/area. You can’t fully set it up until you arrive in the country though.

Malaysia With Kids

Our final section in this guide to plan a trip to Malaysia & Singapore is about travelling in Malaysia with kids. If you don’t have any kids, you can skip this and you are done! Feel free to ask any questions in our Malaysia travel Facebook group.

However, if you have kids, I want to put your mind at ease. We travel to Malaysia frequently with our three kids and have travelled here with a newborn and toddlers. In fact, I spent the first half of my last pregnancy in Malaysia so my third child was somewhat made in Malaysia.

This is a great destination with kids. We just love it!

Malaysians love kids. We always feel very welcome everywhere with our kids and they get lots of positive attention when they were little. This helps put all of us at ease which leads to much better behavior.

Many restaurants are outdoors which I find works great with kids and kids will love all the natural attractions as well as the big attractions like Legoland Malaysia , Sunway Lagoon , KidZania KL , Escape Penang and KL Bird Park  (and so will you!).

There are usually discounts on everything for kids with the youngest kids being free.

Many of the resorts in places like Langkawi and Penang offer kids club so you can get some quality adult time while your kids have a ball with new friends.

You can read our picks for the top family resorts in Malaysia here.

You can also listen to our best tips for families here and find out what my kids themselves think about travelling in Malaysia.

Some of our kids (and our) favourite places are:

• Port Dickson – The kids love the opportunity for a private pool villa over the sea like here  and the top resorts here have a range of family activities and programs
• Legoland Malaysia
• Kuala Lumpur – There are some great attractions here from kids including KidZania , a giant park at KLCC and science museum and aquarium and the fabulous  KL Bird Park
• Penang – We lived here with our kids and it is so great. There is the beach, natural attractions like Youth Park, the fabulous Escape Penang and many other things to do and eat
• Langkawi – Great for relaxing and nature time
• Ipoh –  The Lost World of Tambun is a big hit
• Cameron Highlands – There are some great low-key attractions here which appeal to families like bee and strawberry farms
• Kuching – This is a great place to hang out and do day trips to places like the Sarawak Cultural Village and to see orangutans
• Sandakan – Another great place in Borneo to base yourself for fabulous kid-friendly wildlife experiences like Sepilok Rehabilitation Orangutan Centre , Labuk Bay , Kinabatangan River , Turtle Island and more.

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!

Remember we can also book a taxi for you to help you get around Malaysia quickly and easily. Click here for more details.

I hope this has helped you answer all your questions when you are working out “how to plan my trip to Malaysia”. Ask any questions in our Facebook group ! And find more useful Malaysia planning guides here. I also discuss how to plan a trip to Malaysia and walk you through it in my podcast episode here.

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

• Today's deals
• Search travel guides

Unveiling Penang: Top Sights and Hidden Gems in Malaysia’s Cultural Hub

Welcome to Penang, a vibrant blend of cultures, histories, and cuisines. Nestled in Malaysia, this island-state is famed for its rich heritage and bustling modernity. In this travel guide, we’ll uncover Penang’s top sights and hidden gems.

Exploring George Town

No trip to Penang is complete without a visit to George Town, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is a living museum, where colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and diverse cultures converge.

1. Street Art in Armenian Street

Wander through the alleys of Armenian Street, where captivating murals and interactive art installations bring the walls to life. Created by talented artists like Ernest Zacharevic, these pieces tell the story of Penang’s multicultural heritage.

2. Penang Peranakan Mansion

Step into the opulent world of the Peranakan culture at the Penang Peranakan Mansion. This museum showcases antiques, jewelry, and costumes, offering a glimpse into the lives of Penang’s wealthy Chinese-Malay community from the late 19th to early 20th centuries.

3. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion)

The iconic Blue Mansion, named for its striking indigo-blue walls, is a testament to the life and achievements of Cheong Fatt Tze, a prominent Chinese businessman and politician. Guided tours provide insight into this beautifully restored heritage building’s architecture and history.

4. Fort Cornwallis

Fort Cornwallis is the largest standing fort in Malaysia. Built in the late 18th century by the British East India Company, this historic site offers visitors a chance to explore Penang’s colonial past amidst cannons, a lighthouse, and even a chapel.

Natural Wonders

1. penang hill.

Catching the funicular train up to Penang Hill rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the island. Once at the top, visitors can explore The Habitat, a nature park with canopy walks, and the historical Bellevue Hotel.

2. Penang National Park

For those who love nature, the Penang National Park offers diverse wildlife, pristine beaches, and hiking trails. You can trek to Monkey Beach or visit the lighthouse at Muka Head as well.

3. Tropical Spice Garden

The Tropical Spice Garden is a lush paradise for those interested in the storied past of Penang’s spice trade. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, take a cooking class, or simply enjoy the tropical flora and fauna.

Cultural Immersion

1. kek lok si temple.

Kek Lok Si Temple is one of Southeast Asia’s largest temples and a significant pilgrimage site. Its impressive architecture, towering statues, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhist culture.

2. Little India and China Town

Immerse yourself in Penang’s multicultural heritage by strolling through the bustling enclaves of Little India and China Town. These neighborhoods burst with color, aromas, and sounds, offering everything from temple visits to delicious street food.

3. Clan Jetties

The Clan Jetties are historic waterfront settlements built on stilts, home to Chinese clan associations. Each jetty has its unique vibe, and a walk along these wooden walkways provides a glimpse into traditional life on Penang’s waterfront.

Culinary Delights

Penang is often referred to as the food capital of Malaysia, and for good reason. The island’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, reflecting its multicultural composition.

1. Gurney Drive Hawker Centre

Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is one of the most famous food destinations in Penang. Here, you can sample local delights like Char Kway Teow, Assam Laksa, and Penang Rojak, all in one place.

2. Penang Little India

Savor aromatic Indian dishes in Penang’s Little India. From spicy curries to buttery naans, the area is a paradise for food lovers looking to explore Indian cuisine.

3. Street Food in George Town

George Town’s streets are lined with food stalls offering a diverse mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian dishes. Relish everything from Nasi Kandar to Satay, or cool off with a bowl of Cendol.

Penang is truly a treasure trove of cultural diversity, natural beauty, and culinary wonders. From the historic streets of George Town to the serene heights of Penang Hill, there’s always something new to discover in this enchanting island. So pack your bags and set out on an adventure to unveil the charms of Penang!

You may also like

Discover Japan's Culture Through Its Public Holidays: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

A Food Lover's Journey: Discover the Best Eats in Singapore

Discover Malaysia: The Ultimate Guide to Must-See Attractions and Activities

Discover Auckland: Top Must-Visit Spots in New Zealand's Vibrant City

Top Tourist Spots in Pyeongchang-gun: Explore Korea's Alpine Paradise

Uncover Indonesia’s Cultural Gems: The Ultimate Guide to Must-Visit Museums in Indonesia

Experience Bali: Your Ultimate Island Escape

Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Gold Coast on a Budget: Cost Breakdown and Travel Tips

Unveiling Omotesando: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Tokyo's Stylish Avenue

The Aesthetics of Utility in Mie: Functional Beauty for Everyday Life

Discover the Perfect Time to Visit Guam: A Seasonal Travel Guide

Romance and Rituals: Exploring Taichung's Matchmaker Temple

Explore Chiang Mai: A Perfect 7-Day Itinerary for Culture and Adventure

8 Unforgettable Day Trips from Taipei: Explore Taiwan’s Hidden Gems

Unleashing the Magic of Ho Chi Minh City: Top Nighttime Adventures and Experiences

Discover the Hidden Gems of Quy Nhon: Ultimate Travel Guide to Binh Dinh's Coastal Paradise

Unveiling Otaru: Top Things to Do in Hokkaido's Charming Port City

Discover Hyderabad: Top Attractions and Hidden Gems to Explore

Budget-Friendly Travel in Iloilo: Your Ultimate Guide

Unwind and Rejuvenate: A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Korean Saunas in South Korea

Discover Japan's Culture Through Its Public Holidays: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Planning to visit Japan? Discover Japanese public holidays, festivals, and cultural celebrations in this comprehensive travel guide. Tips and insights to make the most of your trip!

A Food Lover's Journey: Discover the Best Eats in Singapore

Explore the rich and diverse culinary scene of Singapore with our detailed travel guide. Discover must-try dishes, iconic hawker centers, and top dining experiences.

Explore the best attractions and activities in Malaysia; from Kuala Lumpur's skyline to Penang's cultural heritages. This ultimate guide will make your trip unforgettable.

Discover Auckland: Top Must-Visit Spots in New Zealand's Vibrant City

Explore the best places to visit in Auckland, New Zealand. From iconic landmarks like the Sky Tower to natural beauties like Waiheke Island, discover top attractions, activities, and tips for an unforgettable trip.

Top Tourist Spots in Pyeongchang-gun: Explore Korea's Alpine Paradise

Discover the best tourist spots in Pyeongchang-gun, South Korea, including top attractions, ski resorts, cultural sites, and natural beauty.

Explore Indonesia's rich cultural heritage by visiting its top museums. Discover history, art, and unique collections in this ultimate travel guide.

Plan the ultimate island escape with our in-depth travel guide to Bali. Discover top attractions, hidden gems, culinary delights, and practical travel tips for an unforgettable adventure.

Discover how to explore the Gold Coast without breaking the bank. Get insights on travel costs, budget-friendly activities, and top money-saving tips.

Unveiling Omotesando: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Tokyo's Stylish Avenue

Explore the elegance of Omotesando in Tokyo. Discover shopping spots, delightful cafes, cultural attractions, and travel tips in our comprehensive guide.

Unlike ornamental art pieces, everyday items exist whose beauty is realized through their continuous use. These are objects of functional beauty, created by artisans who love the materials and consider users. Why not welcome Mie Prefecture’s functional aesthetics, nurtured by rich nature, the skill of local artisans, and those simply living their daily lives with care and attention, into your life today

Plan your trip to Guam with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best time to visit Guam, explore its seasonal attractions, and enjoy a memorable vacation!

Romance and Rituals: Exploring Taichung's Matchmaker Temple

Discover the legends, love rituals, and cultural heritage of Taichung's Matchmaker Temple. Your ultimate guide to visiting this romantic destination in Taiwan.

Explore Chiang Mai with a perfect 7-day itinerary that covers culture, nature, and adventure. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and travel tips for your trip.

Discover the best day trips from Taipei including Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, Pingxi Sky Lanterns, and more. Find tips, itineraries, and local insights.

Explore the magic of Ho Chi Minh City after dark. Discover top attractions, nightlife hotspots, and unique night experiences with our ultimate guide.

Discover the Hidden Gems of Quy Nhon: Ultimate Travel Guide to Binh Dinh's Coastal Paradise

Explore Quy Nhon with this ultimate travel guide. Discover top attractions, best places to eat, stay, and enjoy the coastal beauty of Binh Dinh in Vietnam.

Unveiling Otaru: Top Things to Do in Hokkaido's Charming Port City

Discover the top things to do in Otaru, a charming port city in Hokkaido, Japan. Explore Otaru Canal, savor local cuisine, visit museums, and more.

Explore the top attractions and hidden gems in Hyderabad with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover historical sites, cultural landmarks, and popular tourist spots in Hyderabad.

Discover how to explore Iloilo on a budget with our ultimate travel guide. From affordable accommodations to cheap eats and local attractions, we've got you covered.

Discover the ultimate guide to traditional Korean saunas in South Korea. Learn about jjimjilbangs, cultural insights, and top locations for an authentic experience.

Last Updated: September 27, 2024

Current language

All languages.