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Most trips to Malaysia start in the wonderful capital of Kuala Lumpur. As exciting as the rest of the trip might be, Kuala Lumpur is absolutely worth exploring and spending a few days in.
This guide breaks down a three day trip with an optional day trip on the fourth day including tips and advice to make is as smooth as possible for you.
| Travel Style | Accommodation | Food & Drink | Transport & Sighteeing | Total Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | RM 30 - 85 (Dorms / Basic Private) | RM 30 - 70 (Hawker Centres & Local Cafes) | RM 10 - 50 (MRT & Occasional Grab) | RM 70 - 205 ($17 - $50) |
| Mid-Range | RM 85 - 400 (Boutique Hotels / AirBnB) | RM 70 - 150 (Casual Cafes & Restaurants) | RM 50 - 80 (Frequent Grabs & Paid Activities) | RM 205 - 630 ($50 - $155) |
| Luxury | RM 400 - 1200+ (High-End Stays) | RM 150 - 400+ (Fine Dining & Rooftop Bars) | RM 80 - 200+ (Private Drivers & Tours) | RM 630 - 1800+ ($155 - $410+) |
Start the first morning off early by heading north to one of the most iconic landmarks, Batu Caves. Climb the 272 vibrant steps up to the massive limestone caves above which are home to many Hindu temples.
From there, head over to Merdeka Square to admire the gorgeous architecture and the River of Life.
Chinatown, just around the corner, is the next stop. Enjoy an afternoon exploring the neighbourhood where heritage meets trendy modern stores.
Just a short wall from Chinatown, is the Central Market. This indoor market is a great little stop for souvenirs and gifts.
As the sun comes down and the air cools, head over to Jalan Alor Food Street and try lots of different, wonderful things. The most popular street food spot in Kuala Lumpur.
For more details and guidance, check out each stop below:
Walk across the historic green field to see the spot where Malaysia first raised its national flag.
Admire at the grand colonial architecture of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and its famous copper-domed clock tower.
Snap a classic tourist photo with the iconic “I LOVE KL” statue right outside the entrance of the city gallery.
Stop by the River of Life to see the historic misty riverbanks.
Start day with a breath of fresh air in one of Malaysia’s oldest forest reserves located right in the middle of the city called Kuala Lumpur Eco Park.
Time to switch things up as the city starts gets hot. Spend some time exploring the popular high-end shopping, entertainment and fashion district of Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang.
As the sun begins to come down, head over to KLCC park. Here you’ll find one of my favourite landmarks, it’s so iconic, sentimental and really cool to experience after dark, the Petronas Twin Towers.
For more details and guidance, check out each stop below:
Check out nearby Berjaya Times Square, home to an indoor theme park!
Enjoy your morning at the impressive Thean Hou Temple. A six-tiered Chinese temple which sits on a hilltop with gorgeous views.
Head over to Masjid Negara – the National Mosque to learn more about Islam in Malaysia and admire this impressive, modern religious site.
Next up, wander the streets of this historic Malay enclave that is a complete contrast to the skyscrapers that tower over from behind, Kampung Baru.
Pull together this relaxing, cultural day in Kuala Lumpur with a drink and an incredible view of the city from above at one of Kuala Lumpur’s many affordable rooftop bars.
For more details and guidance, check out each stop below:
Admire the striking, modern architecture, especially its unique star-shaped blue roof that looks almost like an umbrella.
Check out the vast Grand Prayer Hall to see the beautiful stained-glass windows.
Wander around the peaceful outdoor courtyard with fountains and reflecting pools.
If you have time on your trip to add a fourth day or even a fifth day to Kuala Lumpur then a day trip is perfect. Here’s some options based on personal preference:
Just a short 30-minute ride away from central KL is Malaysia’s federal administrative capital. It’s home to some really impressive architecture like the iconic Putra Mosque on the water and the Iron mosque (featuring a VR set-up inside) located within impressive government buildings. Enjoy the nearby Secret Garden beyond the Tangga Putrajaya Steps.
Note: I took this day trip on a Sunday and the streets were completely empty as it’s a working area so most of the area is in active. The Putra Mosque still had a lot of tourists as I believe it’s often on tour routes.
Tip: Be sure to wear modest clothing if you plan on heading into the mosques – both offer clothing with a head coverings but it’s important you show respect.
A 2-hour bus journey will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Malacca. The town features colonial Dutch architecture, street art, old fortresses and a very popular weekend night market on Jonker Street.
Note: Malacca is great and while a day trip is enough, if you have the time to spare in your Malaysia trip then I’d suggest an overnight stay. I visited for 2 days before heading to Singapore and it meant I wasn’t rushed and could enjoy the night market fully.
An hour into the mountains you’ll find this huge mountaintop theme park at 1800 meters high. Offering a mountain cable car, temples, typical theme park rides and entertainment as well as many more fun things to do on a mountaintop.
Note: Genting Highlands is very not budget-friendly. I opted to not go as it’s a pretty pricey day trip. With transport and food, you’re looking at a minimum of RM 110 or $25 without the theme park ticket and with the ticket a minimum of 280 RM or $63.
Where you choose to stay in Kuala Lumpur is completely preference. There are plenty of options for all budgets.
I highly suggest staying as central as possible as well as close to a transit line as it will make getting around much easier. This inevitably will mean more time exploring.
Cash or Card: Kuala Lumpur is transitioning into a cashless city but it still uses cash for small things like street food and stalls so carry cash.
Tap Water: Don’t drink it. Buy bottled water for drinking. There’s no need to avoid the ice, the vast majority of drinks stalls and restaurants use commercially manufactured ice from filtered water so you’ll be safe.
Grab App: Download the app before getting to Malaysia. It’s safe, efficient and well-priced. It makes getting from one spot to the other super easy.
KL Train System: Comprised of the LRT, MRT and Monorail, the city’s train system is fast, effective and well-priced. Don’t get fined for drinking or eating and look out for the Women’s Only Coaches.
Dress Code: Malaysia is a predominantly muslim country so it’s important to wear respectful clothing. Kuala Lumpur is pretty laid-back but for religious sites be sure to cover your knees and shoulders.
Tourism Tax: Foreign tourists staying at accommodation in Malaysia are required to pay a flat fee of RM 10 per room, per night. It may be added when booking or may be paid on arrival in cash.
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