malaysia one week travel

Perfect One Week In Malaysia Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 24, 2023 | Asia , Malaysia , Travel Tips

If you’re heading to Kuala Lumpur next, here’s what you should do in one week in Malaysia . This article features two of the best cities in Malaysia and will help you make the most of your time in Malaysia.

Traveling to Malaysia in a week is possible, but you might have to pick a shorter itinerary.

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Most tourists and travelers to Malaysia arrive at Kuala Lumpur’s International Airport and want to make the most out of their vacation, especially if they are here for a short stay.

Only if you have a well-planned trip and chalked out an itinerary, only then it is possible for one to maximize their vacation time.

That way, one will not only enjoy a great vacation witty any stress but can feel the rhythm of local life and get familiar with the Malaysian way of life, the food, the smells and the culture.

Planning your upcoming adventures? Travel by bus! (It's cheap!)

Before you start planning the trip, why not browse this useful  hotel booking site to learn about the most affordable lodging options that make for a great stay.

The kind of itinerary you plan would rely on what you are looking for in your holiday. You might want to explore the historical sights and museums or enjoy the great outdoors or simply want to relax on the beaches, or go for snorkeling or scuba diving.

The best advice for those with one week in Malaysia would be to choose two locations and try not to overstress themselves.

You can spend one week traveling through Malaysia and see the two most popular cities; Kuala Lumpur and Penang as well as the smaller, quieter towns such as Melaka or Cameron Highlands.

There’s a lot to discover in this country, so you might want to plan your backpacking Malaysia itinerary. In this article, we will cover a one-week itinerary Malaysia, but I’d recommend at least two weeks.

You could easily pick any of the Melaka hotels to enjoy a comfortable stay and come back with great memories while relaxing in this quieter town.

One Week in Malaysia Itinerary | Kuala Lumpur & Penang

Note that if you have more time, I suggest you add some of these cities to your Malaysia backpacking itinerary: Langkawi, Cameron Highlands, Perhentian Islands, Ipoh. These places are going to make your backpacking Malaysia route more interesting!

Top Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a big and busy city. There is a lot to do and see here, and it is easy to find food everywhere! Here are some  things to do in KL .

Check out the best hostels in Kuala Lumpur or the best Airbnbs rentals !

• Day 1 – Explore the markets, landmarks and street food after checking in. Head for Petaling Street in Chinatown for shopping and local delicacies. Explore other landmarks such as Independence Square and Lake Gardens.
• Day 2 – Head to the Hindu Temples that are easily accessible. It is a good idea to start early in the day as the trip will take about half a day. There are several caves to explore, and it is a must to cover the legs. Visit the Symphony Lake and Petronas Towers and enjoy the water and light show with music in the afternoon. Towards the evening, visit the Heli-Lounge, which is a rooftop bar and popular among the locals and the tourists.
• Day 3 – Visit the natural wonders on the third day in Kuala Lumpur and enjoy breathtakingly verdant views of Genting Highlands and Colmar Tropicale. These are a two-hour drive from the city center.
• Day 4 – Keep the last day reserves for shopping and partying./ The Bukit Bintang and KLCC are noted for a comprehensive shopping scene. Towards the evening, head for trendy nightclubs, international resto-bars, and sophisticated whiskey bars.

You can drive to Penang as it is about four hours away by road. It will take about an hour by air to reach Penang from Kuala Lumpur. You can also take a bus or fly directly there.

Penang Itinerary for 3 Days

Penang is a must-visit, because of its rich historical sites, amazing relaxed and delicious food. There is a fascinating fusion of everything on the colorful tropical island. Here’s your Penang itinerary to help you make the most of your last days in Malaysia.

• Day 1 – Explore the rich heritage at Penang and rise a trishaw to visit Georgetown.  Have a look at the stunning mosques and British colonial buildings. Visit the Pinang Peranakan Mansion to have a look at the old culture of Babas. Here you will find a diverse mix of English flooring, wood-carved Chinese panels, and ironwork from Scotland.
• Day 2 – Look for the city offerings beyond architecture and history. For example, you can look for quirky, disguised graffiti. Penang is entirely different when it comes to street food. So, keep your eyes peeled for Gurney Drive Hawker Centre or New Lane Hawker Centre where one can taste an endless selection of local delights. End the day by watching the sunset with the Penang Hill Railway.
• Day 3 – Discover the nature around Penang, and one can visit an Agricultural Village and countryside. One can cycle around or head for the pristine beaches to spend a lazy beach day. End your day with a visit to the Batu Ferringhi Night Market where one can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of great food.

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Dive Into Malaysia

The Ultimate Malaysia Itinerary For The Ultimate Trip✅ 5 Days To 2 Weeks+ [2024]

Looking for the perfect Malaysia itinerary for your perfect vacation in Malaysia?

You are in the right place!

Between living in Malaysia and now travelling to Malaysia a couple of times a year, I have been to most corners of this awesome country. There are fabulous beaches, a bustling capital, an interesting history, some of the best food in world and so much more!

In fact, there are so many great options for where to travel in Malaysia that this can cause problems when it comes time to plan your Malaysia travel itinerary.

With limited time, where should you go?

I can help you answer this! Below, you will find my detailed Malaysia tour itinerary. It is perfect whether you are looking for a Malaysia 5 day itinerary, a Malaysia 7 day itinerary, a Malaysia 10 day itinerary, a 2 week Malaysia itinerary or anything in between!

This article will work whether you are looking for a backpacking Malaysia itinerary or a luxury travel itinerary – you can easily adapt it to your needs. I start by walking through a Malaysia 7 days itinerary and then give you suggestions for slightly more or less time. I then extend this into a 10 day itinerary and a 2 weeks in Malaysia itinerary before giving suggestions for longer periods.

So if you are lucky enough to have two weeks to explore Malaysia, keep reading through all the itinerary suggestions below!

If you have just 2 – 4 days in Malaysia then click here for all our 2 – 4 day Malaysia itineraries.

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!

Malaysia Trip Planner

Before I dive into my Malaysia trip itinerary, I want to point out that if you are currently planning your whole Malaysia trip and wondering about flights, how to get around, how to book accommodation, what time of year you should go, etc etc then I highly recommend you read my detailed guide here to how to plan a trip to Malaysia.

It steps you through everything else you need to think about in addition to the itinerary for Malaysia trip below. In this article here, I’m strictly talking about the best Malaysia tour plan.

If you prefer to listen than read, you can also find a great Malaysia itinerary for 1- 2 weeks in my podcast here.

Malaysia Itinerary: 7 Days

The following 1 week Malaysia itinerary is exactly what you should do if you have that long. If you are looking for a longer or shorter itinerary, I’ll tell you what edits to make below.

A week is a great length of time to explore two of the best parts of Malaysia – the beaches and island scenery, along with the dynamic capital, Kuala Lumpur. These are the best vacation spots in Malaysia. The highlights of this Malaysia itinerary 1 week:

• Discover the best of Kuala Lumpur
• Visit the tallest twin towers in the world, the Petronas Twin Towers
• Learn the history of Malaysia
• Enjoy the best Indian, Chinese and Malay food in Kuala Lumpur
• Explore some of the most beautiful coastline in Malaysia
• Relax at the best beaches

You’ll spend three nights in Kuala Lumpur and four nights in Langkawi.

This would also work great as a Malaysia honeymoon itinerary, staying in the luxury choices noted below.

It’s also great for a family. Depending on your kids’ ages and interests, you may just want to cut down the itinerary a little and add some chill out pool or beach time to make it a bit easier.

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur

Three days in Kuala Lumpur is a great amount of time to get a good taste of this city in this Malaysia 1 week itinerary.

On arrival at the airport, book a transfer , catch a taxi or the express train into Kuala Lumpur so you aren’t wasting any time.

The itinerary below is based on my detailed 3 day itinerary for Kuala Lumpur here. Click here to get more detailed information or see an overview below. It assumes you hit the ground running and have three full days in Kuala Lumpur. If you don’t, edit out the attractions that seem least interesting to you.

• Start the day at Merdeka (independence) Square where the Malaysian flag was raised for the first time
• Take a look at the nearby Jamek Mosque
• Enjoy lunch at Brickfields, KL’s Little India. Take a stroll and soak it all in
• Visit the Skybridge at the famous Petronas Twin Towers. I recommend you buy tickets in advance
• Wander through KLCC Park
• Have sunset cocktails at SkyBar and enjoy unmatched views of Petronas
• Watch the Symphony Fountain Light Show at KLCC Park

Day 2 Explore Kuala Lumpur’s Variety

Today, you get to enjoy a great mixture of attractions which will show you why Kuala Lumpur is such a great place to visit. Starting at the famous Batu Caves, you’ll also be surrounded by rainforest, enjoy great views of KL and shop at modern shopping centres. Finish the day eating great food and hitting up the infamous drinking street.

• Start the day at the enigmatic Batu Caves. Walk to the top of the coloured stairs, check out the temples and look back over KL
• Visit the tropical rainforest in the heart of KL at KL Forest Eco Park
• Get high in KL at the KL Tower for fabulous views
• Shop in Bukit Bintang
• Eat fabulous food at Jalan Alor Food Street
• Have a drink at Changkat Bukit Bintang Street

Day 3 Kuala Lumpur’s Museums, Islam And Food

Today is a great mixture of enjoying how beautiful Kuala Lumpur can be combined with learning more about its history and Islam. Finish the day with an amazing food tour through Chinatown.

• Start the day at the beautiful KL Bird Park . Enjoy both the birds and the gardens
• Visit the impressive National Mosque
• Learn at the Islamic Arts Museum
• Discover Malaysia’s history at the National Museum
• Enjoy an amazing food tour through KL’s Chinatown. Find it here

Where To Stay In Kuala Lumpur

Here are our best options for each budget. Pick the one that corresponds to yours.

LUXURY – Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur

For awesome views of the Petronas Twin Towers in a central spot with direct access to KLCC Park, you can’t go wrong at the Traders Hotel. There are a range of room types with huge windows for great views. You can also choose to stay in a room with Club Lounge access where you get special food and drinks.

There are also many other facilities including the Sky Bar which forms part of your Kuala Lumpur itinerary for excellent sunset views of the Towers. There is an indoor swimming pool, gym and day spa all for a very affordable price.

Click here for the latest prices or here to read my full review.

MID RANGE – Berjaya Times Square Hotel

The Berjaya Times Square Hotel has one of our favourite locations for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur thanks to being directly above the huge Berjaya Times Square shopping centre. This means easy access to hundreds of shops, restaurants and even a big indoor theme park.

It’s also home to one of the biggest swimming pools I have seen in a city hotel and many other facilities. Room types vary and include apartment-style rooms making this an extra good choice for families or groups. Prices are excellent and we have stayed here many times.

Click here for the latest prices or read our full review here .

BUDGET – Hotel Olympic

For bargain seekers, the Hotel Olympic is a solid choice central to many of Kuala Lumpur’s attractions. It is moments away from the new Merdeka 118 and two metro stations. It is also just a short walk from KL’s fabulous Chinatown.

Rooms are all air-conditioned (you will need it!) with private bathrooms and TVs. They also have a kettle and free wifi. Rooms range from double/twin to quad configuration. There are also suite options including a fabulous junior suite for families with a double bed and super cool bunk beds (built to look like a house) with a slide.

It’s also colourful and modern with a restaurant and convenience store on-site.

Click here for the latest prices.

If you would like something cheaper and don’t mind staying in a room without a window, also consider the Big M Hotel here . This is also conveniently located in Chinatown.

If you would like more options, read our full guide to the best accommodation in Kuala Lumpur for all budgets here.

Day 4 Fly To Langkawi

Today, you take the short flight to Langkawi leaving the bright lights of Kuala Lumpur behind. You can read more about travelling from KL to Langkawi here.

Langkawi is a beautiful tropical island off the north west coast of Malaysia near the border with Thailand. It has stunning scenery, great beaches and many fun attractions and activities. Many of Malaysia’s best resorts are located here and some time in Langkawi is the perfect accompaniment to Kuala Lumpur in a Malaysia one week itinerary.

• Take a flight to Langkawi in the morning. Find the best prices here
• On arrival in Langkawi, take a taxi to your hotel or book a transfer here to make things extra easy
• Enjoy the afternoon at your hotel or at the beach
• In the early evening, head to Pantai Cenang for sunset drinks and dinner. Yellow Cafe is a good place for sunset drinks
• If you want to party tonight, this is the area to be

Day 5 Explore Langkawi

Today, you are going to explore the island of Langkawi. Hire a car or taxi for the day and get going!

• There are many attractions in Langkawi but they can be quite spread out. I recommend you go through this list and pick out your favourite
• I particularly recommend the zipline adventure and the kayaking Mangrove tour. Ignore any cruising and the SkyCab as they are coming up next!
• In the evening, head to one of Langkawi’s night markets. They change location every night of the week. See the schedule here

Day 6  Langkawi Nature

Langkawi is famous for its gorgeous natural attractions and today you will explore them.

• In the morning, head to Langkawi SkyCab and SkyBridge for some of the most beautiful scenery in Malaysia
• In the afternoon, if you are staying at a luxurious resort, it’s time to enjoy it! Relax and enjoy what it offers. Otherwise, head to Pantai Tengah for a beautiful beach with services but without the huge crowds

Day 7 Langkawi Cruising

For your final day in your one week Malaysia itinerary, it’s time to enjoy Langkawi from the sea! This is the most beautiful and enjoyable way to explore this part of the world.

• Explore the Langkawi archipelago on a half day Langkawi Island Hopping adventure. These tours include beaches, optional snorkelling and eagle watching. Click here to book a good one now or read our full guide to Langkawi island hopping tours here
• Relax in the afternoon or go shopping at Cenang Mall and Zon Shopping Paradise in Pantai Cenang
• Finish your final day in Langkawi with a stunning sunset cruise. Click here to book now

You can read more details on all of the activities mentioned in Langkawi here.

Where To Stay In Langkawi

Luxury – the datai langkawi review.

This 5-star resort is a luxurious favourite. Not only is it located in a beautiful setting between the rainforest and a private beach, but it has all the facilities of a top resort. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want luxury.

There are three pools (one for adults, one for families and one for toddlers), water sports, a health club and many nature activities both for children and adults. There are many room types, but the downside is that it is removed from most attractions so factor in lots of taxi rides if you want to explore the island.

The Datai also has four restaurants and two shops. Rates include breakfast and minibar and the villas also have a private butler service.

Click here for the latest prices .

MID RANGE – Camar Resort

If you like being close to the action, this beachfront hotel in Pantai Tengah is close to the main area of Pantai Cenang. In addition to the beach, there is a huge pool, gym and on-site restaurant.

There is a huge range of room types including private villas and family suites. It’s very good value given the location.

BUDGET – Adya Hotel

The Adya Hotel Langkawi is a great choice for bargain hunters who love being in a central spot (it’s located in the main town, Kuah) but don’t mind being away from the beach. The Adya Hotel has a shopping centre next door and has two swimming pools (one is ladies only). It also has a gym and restaurant.

With all of this and solid room standards with air-conditioning, private bathrooms and flatscreen TVs, this is a great mid-range hotel at a budget price tag.

You can find more options for where to stay in Langkawi here .

Final Notes

Instead of a 7 days Malaysia itinerary, you could turn this into a Malaysia 6 days itinerary by removing one day in Langkawi. Pick which day least appeals and remove it. Or, if you prefer to be active on trips, you could remove the relaxing on day 6 in the afternoon and do the day 7 activities then.

If you are looking for a Malaysia itinerary 8 days, you have two choices. Pick whether you would like more time in Kuala Lumpur or Langkawi and add a day to that destination and then simply do less each day in that destination to spread it across an extra day.

If you would prefer to see an extra destination in Malaysia instead, I recommend spending an extra night in Kuala Lumpur and doing this day tour to Melaka . Melaka is an interesting place quite different to Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi and you are sure to enjoy it.

You can also get to Melaka very easily by booking our taxi service here.

Malaysia Itinerary: 5 Days

If you are looking for a Malaysia 5 days itinerary, I recommend you don’t go to Langkawi. You still can if you don’t mind moving fast but with just a couple of nights, I would focus on Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding area instead.

So for a 5 days trip to Malaysia, I recommend doing days 1 – 3 above. Day 4, I recommend you visit Batu Caves and follow the bonus 4 day mentioned here. Then on day 5, head to Melaka on a day trip. You can book that here.

If you are looking for a Malaysia itinerary 6 days and aren’t much of a beach person, you could also follow this 5 day Malaysia itinerary and spend an extra day returning to whatever you loved most in Kuala Lumpur.

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

Malaysia Itinerary: 10 Days

The following 10 days in Malaysia itinerary is exactly what you should do with a week and a half.

This timeframe is perfect to really get a good introduction to Malaysia by adding two more of the best tourist destinations in Malaysia to the one week itinerary. You don’t just get to see the capital and beaches but also UNESO-listed George Town and get to eat some of the best food in the world. The highlights of this Malaysia holiday itinerary are:

• Enjoy the best Indian, Chinese and Malay food in KL
• Eat the best food in Ipoh and Penang
• Explore the historic centres of Ipoh and George Town
• Enjoy the most beautiful coastline in Malaysia

Let’s start this Malaysia vacation guide!

Days 1 – 3 Kuala Lumpur

Follow the 3-day Malaysia city tour itinerary for Kuala Lumpur above.

Day 4 Explore Ipoh

Today, you leave Kuala Lumpur for the pretty city of Ipoh just over three hours bus journey north-west of Kuala Lumpur. Ipoh has a gorgeous Old Town area with fun street art, beautiful surrounding scenery and is known for having some of the best food in the country. You are sure to love your quick stopover!

• Take a morning bus to Ipoh ( book it here ) or take an easy taxi transfer ( book it here )
• Take a taxi to your hotel and drop off your bags
• Have one of Ipoh’s famous white coffees and egg tarts at Nam Heong White Coffee Shop .
• Spend the afternoon walking around the Old Town following the Ipoh Heritage Trail. You can download the map and more information on the sights here
• Take your time and keep a look out for Ipoh’s famous street art and gorgeous laneways
• Have dinner at the Tong Sui Kai Hawker Centre and try as many dishes as you can. Ipoh’s specialty dishes, like Ipoh laksa, ayam garam (salted chicken) or any of Ipoh’s special noodle dishes like Gai Si Hor Fun (shredded chicken noodles) or Chee Chong Fun, are especially recommended

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.

Where To Stay In Ipoh

Regalodge is a solid mid range hotel option not far from the Old Town of Ipoh. There’s a restaurant and day spa, and the service is great.

There are a variety of room types from standard double hotel rooms to family suites. They are all a good standard with air-conditioning, private bathrooms and flatscreen TVs. It’s an amazing price for this standard of hotel.

You can find more options for where to stay in Ipoh here .

Day 5 Temples And Beaches

Today, you finish exploring Ipoh by visiting the surrounding temples and then take a bus on to Penang.

• Grab a taxi to visit a couple of Ipoh’s cave temples at Sam Poh Tong Temple and Kek Lok Ton Temple. Make sure you cover your shoulders and knees and wear sturdy footwear
• Eat a quick lunch before catching a bus or private taxi to Penang. This journey takes just over two hours and you can book a ticket here for the bus or make it super easy and book your private taxi here.

Penang island is one of the most popular Malaysia vacation destinations off the west coast of Malaysia. It has long served as a link between Asia’s two halves and, as such, has a more diverse culture. Its capital, George Town, has a UNESCO World Heritage listed centre. Penang isn’t just about tourist cities in Malaysia though. There are beaches, mountainous jungle and the best food in Malaysia.

• Drop your bags at your hotel before heading to Batu Ferringhi, the popular beach area. If you like water sports, go parasailing. Otherwise, relax with a drink on the beach at the Bora Bora by Sunset bar
• Eat dinner at Long Beach Kafe. This hawker centre has many delicious food choices
• Visit the surrounding night market

Day 6 Explore Penang

Today, you are exploring Penang particularly its UNESO-listed centre.

• Head to the funicular tram for a ride up Penang Hill for great views. Read more about Penang Hill here
• Visit nearby Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Consider doing this morning tour to make it easy and to learn more. Otherwise, take taxis
• Have lunch in Little India in George Town
• While in George Town, visit Peranakan Mansion and learn about Penang’s original people. Then head to Fort Cornwallis and the museum at Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. I recommend you walk around if the heat will allow it so you can take everything in and to keep a look out for Penang’s famous street art
• Consider taking this amazing food tour of George Town which starts around 4pm. You’ll see more of George Town and really get to enjoy and know the food. You can see my full review of this tour here (including what we ate)
• Otherwise, walk via Love Lane to Kapitan Keeling Mosque. You need to dress modestly to enter, and there are gowns on site you can borrow (if you do the food tour, you’lll visit all these places on the tour)
• Stroll down Armenian Street, once the home of Chinese clan-houses and secret societies. Today it has been gentrified and is home to many shops and cafes. This is also where you will find the famous “kids on a bicycle” mural
• You could also do this sightseeing tour instead to make things easier
• For dinner, head to another hawker centre. Some good options are New Lane Hawker Centre, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre and Sri Weld Food Court – pick whichever is most convenient for you.

Where To Stay In Penang

Luxury – shangri-la’s rasa sayang resort and spa.

The 5-star Rasa Sayang is set in a beautiful spot by one end of the beach in Batu Ferringhi. It’s only a short walk from the action of Batu Ferringhi where you can relax and feel a world away while lounging by the pool or in its spacious gardens. There are countless facilities here including multiple pools, restaurants, gym, kids club and golf course.

There are a variety of room types from doubles to family rooms. For a treat, book a room in the Rasa Wing which includes special benefits such as breakfast, afternoon tea, cocktails and pre-dinner canapes.

MID RANGE – Bayview Hotel George Town

This business style hotel is in a great location in George Town. It offers a pool, gym and a 360 degree revolving restaurant!

You will find a variety of room types including family options and suites for extra space.

This is all at a great value price given the location.

BUDGET – Chulia Heritage Hotel

If you are on a Malaysia backpacking itinerary. you will appreciate this budget friendly option in a central part of George Town. This is a simple hotel with bicycles available but without extra facilities and services.

Despite the low price tag, all rooms are a good standard with air-conditioning, flatscreen TVs and tea and coffee making facilities. Depending on your budget, you can pick a private or shared bathroom. There are family room options as well as regular twins and doubles.

You can find more great places to stay in Penang here.

Day 7 Head To Langkawi

This morning, it’s time to leave Malaysia’s cities behind for one of the best holiday spots in Malaysia, Langkawi.

I recommend you fly between the two places as travelling overland is a lot more mucking around. You can read about your transport options here.

If you fly, you can book a transfer here to your hotel.

• Travel to Langkawi in the morning
• In the afternoon, take it easy in your resort or on the beach at Pantai Cenang
• In the evening, head to Pantai Cenang for sunset drinks and dinner. Yellow Cafe is a good place to sit for sunset drinks.
• If you want to party tonight, Pantai Cenang is the place to be

Days 8 – 10 Enjoy Langkawi

Follow days 5-7 in the 7-day itinerary above.

Malaysia Itinerary: 2 Weeks

When designing a Malaysia 2 week itinerary, I recommend basing it on the 10 day itinerary above but with extra time everywhere and visiting Melaka on a day trip. Read through the 10-day itinerary before going through the Malaysia two week itinerary as it is more detailed.

Below, I quickly share this Malaysia 2 weeks itinerary.

Days 1 – 5 Kuala Lumpur

Follow the 3-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary above for the first three days.

On day 4, pick one of the bonus 4th day activities you can find this in this Kuala Lumpur itinerary . This includes visiting either the Genting Highlands , Putrajaya or Sunway Lagoon for theme park fun.

On day 5, do a day trip to Melaka .

Day 6 Travel to Ipoh

Take it easy in the morning returning to any favourite spots in Kuala Lumpur. After lunch, take a bus to Ipoh ( book it here ) or treat yourself to an affordable private taxi ( book here ) to save some time. After checking in, enjoy a quick wander in the Old Town before dinner.

Day 7 Exploring Ipoh

Ipoh has a gorgeous Old Town area with fun street art, beautiful surrounding scenery and is known for having some of the best food in the country. Today, you explore the best it has to offer.

• Start the day with one one of Ipoh’s famous white coffees and egg tarts at Nam Heong White Coffee Shop
• Spend the morning walking around the Old Town following the Ipoh Heritage Trail. You can download the map and more information on the sights here
• In the afternoon, grab a taxi to visit a couple of Ipoh’s cave temples at Sam Poh Tong Temple and Kek Lok Ton Temple. Cover your shoulders and knees and wear sturdy footwear

Day 8 Penang’s Beaches

Today, it’s time to move on to the awesome island of Penang!

• Catch a bus to Penang. This journey takes just over two hours and you can book a ticket here . Alternatively, a taxi from Ipoh is very affordable and is faster and easier. Book it here.
• Drop your bags at your hotel before heading to Batu Ferringhi, the popular beach area. If you like water sports, go parasailing or you can try a banana boat ride
• Late afternoon, relax with a drink on the beach at the Bora Bora by Sunset bar

Day 9 Explore Penang

Follow day 6 of the 10 day itinerary above.

Days 10 – 13 Enjoy Langkawi

Follow days 7-10 of the 10 day itinerary above.

Day 14 Final Day

For your final day in this Malaysia itinerary 14 days, repeat anything you have loved in Langkawi so far, relax at your resort or visit some more places in this list of best things to do in Langkawi.

Malaysia Itinerary: 3 Weeks+

With three plus weeks in Malaysia, you have plenty of time to add in another region of Malaysia.

I recommend you follow the two week Malaysia itinerary above or you could follow the 10 day one instead if you like to move fast and see a lot.

If you are looking for a Malaysia 3 week itinerary, you can then spend the rest of your time following an itinerary east coast Malaysia or head to Borneo to explore a very different part of Malaysia.

If you have 4+ weeks, you could consider doing all of the above!

Here are some suggestions for an east coast Malaysia itinerary and a Borneo Malaysia itinerary for 7 – 10 days.

East Coast Malaysia itinerary: 7+ Days

This itinerary takes you to the best islands and most interesting cities on the east coast.

Day 1: Fly to Kota Bharu . This will take two flights. Click here to find flights. Check in to your hotel and take a walk around the attractions in Kota Bharu.

Days 2 – 3: Leave early for Kuala Besut and then a ferry across to the Perhentian Islands ( read how to do this here ). Stay 2 nights on the Perhentian Islands enjoying what these islands have to offer. This is primarily enjoying the beach, hiking and snorkelling/diving.

Days 4-5: Catch a boat to Redang Island ( see how here ) for more gorgeous Malaysia Island time for the next two nights. Read more about Redang Island here.

Day 6: Take a ferry to Kuala Terengganu. Explore this city

Day 7: Finish exploring Kuala Terengganu and fly back to Kuala Lumpur

With an extra three nights, you could spend longer at the locations above or also head to Cherating Beach and Kuantan and catch a bus or flight back to Kuala Lumpur from here.

A long-distance taxi is a great way to speed up your exploration of the region and is affordable. Find out prices and book here.

If you are trying to work out which east coast island to visit, read our guide here to whether Perhentian Islands, Redang Island or Tioman is best!

Borneo Malaysia Itinerary: 7+ Days

This Malaysia trip guide takes you to the best of the state of Sabah. Another alternative would be to spend a whole week in Kuching doing day trips to the jungle and surrounding attractions.

Day 1: Fly to Kota Kinabalu. This will take two flights from Langkawi. Click here to find flights.

Day 2: Explore Kota Kinabalu. Consider visiting Gaya Island or the surrounding islands or the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Read our guide to Kota Kinabalu here.

Day 3:  Climb Mt Kinabalu or take the easy option and enjoy Mount Kinabalu from some hot springs on this tour.

Day 4: Catch a bus or fly to Sandakan. Arrive as early as possible as there are some great things to do here. Explore the amazing wildlife attractions around this city. Head to the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary and the Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Centre if you can fit it in. (You will have to push this to day 5 if you climb the mountain.)

Day 5: Visit Turtle Island for an amazing overnight experience getting to enjoy a tropical island then viewing a female turtle laying her eggs and other turtle related activities. More information here.

Day 6: Arrive back in Sandakan and take an overnight tour to explore the awesome wildlife at Kinabatangan River . Read more here

Day 7: Return to Sandakan and fly back to Kuala Lumpur

With an extra three nights, you could spend longer at the locations above or fly onto Miri and explore Gunung Mulu National Park.

I hope with these suggestions, you can make the best 3 week itinerary Malaysia for you!

Map Of Malaysia Travel Itinerary

The following map shows the 10 day and the 2 week trip for Malaysia. The one week trip is a simplified version of this with Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur.

Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

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!

I hope this has helped you create your best itinerary Malaysia! To help you plan your whole trip, click here for our ultimate guide or find all our planning guides here . If you plan to visit Singapore as well, find our best Singapore and Malaysia itineraries here . You can also find our best road trip itineraries 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.

Traveling Without a Passport

How to Spend One Week in Malaysia

If you’re looking to explore Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a multicultural paradise that offers everything from tropical beaches and lush greenery to towering skyscrapers and bustling city life. Here’s our guide on how to experience Malaysia’s best sights, sounds, and eats in one week.

Travel to: Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

Simply called KL by locals, the capital city of Malaysia boasts a beautiful skyline combining steel skyscrapers, colonial architecture, and old-town charm. If you’re arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, the city centre is just a one-hour train or taxi ride away.

Day 1: Discover Chinatown’s Petaling Street

Kick off your week in the capital city’s ever-bustling Chinatown. The main area, Petaling Street, is a well-known bargain hunter’s paradise. Endless stalls offer everything from herbs and handicraft goods to incredible knockoffs. Petaling Street is also called “Chee Cheong Kai” (Starch Factory Street), referring to the district’s historical connection to tapioca production.

At night, Petaling Street transforms into a cramped but colourful market. If you’re looking for a fun night out, KL’s Chinatown boasts an impressive roster of bars, from sophisticated cocktail joints, such as PS150 , to casual backpacker hotspots like The Berlin KL .

Day 2: Explore KL’s iconic landmarks

Kuala Lumpur is no stranger to iconic landmarks. In fact, the city’s skyline is home to two distinct towers with architectural heritage inspired by Islamic motifs: KL Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers.

KL Tower—the 7th-tallest freestanding tower in the world—features a revolving restaurant, a glass-bottom Sky Box and an open observation deck with stunning 360 views of the city. For adults, entry to KL Tower costs RM 49 (16 CAD). Nearby are the Petronas Twin Towers, the world’s tallest twin towers and arguably KL’s most famous landmark. This 88-storey twin structure is linked at the 41st and 42nd floors by a unique double-decker Sky Bridge. There is also a stunning observation deck, where visitors can get panoramic views of the city for RM 80 (25 CAD) per adult.

To experience the best of both landmarks, visit the KL Tower during the day for a better and cheaper view overlooking the city. Spend some time exploring the city’s largest shopping centre, Suria KLCC—located at the foot of the Twin Towers—before ending your night with the illuminated sights of the Petronas behind the free Lake Symphony Light and Sound Water Fountain Show.

Other iconic landmarks include:

• Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
• Sultan Abdul Samad Building (Merdeka Square)
• Putra Mosque
• Masjid Negara (National Mosque)

See Also: Southeast Asia for Couples

Day 3: Climb up the Batu Caves

Located about 50 minutes outside of KL’s city centre, the Batu Caves are an important Hindu landmark and must-see tourist attraction. Luckily, getting there is extremely easy, either by taxi or train. From KL Sentral Station, a one-way fare to Batu Caves KTM Komuter Station is only RM 2 (less than a dollar Canadian).

The enormous limestone temple complex consists of three main caves and is said to be around 400 million years old. Approaching the caves, you’ll be greeted by a giant golden statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of War. The statue leads to a steep 272-step climb up the temple and shrine, where you’ll discover the Temple Cave at the very top. With a ceiling over 300 feet high, the Temple Cave is the largest and most popular cave for good reason. It may sound daunting, but it’s definitely worth the hike. Admission to the Batu Caves is free and they are open all year round.

Cameron Highlands

Backpackers and locals alike are drawn to Malaysia’s incredible Cameron Highlands. Situated roughly 150 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur, the highlands are enjoyed for their cooler climate and lush, mountainous landscape. Thankfully, the bus journey from KL is just a little under four hours and costs about RM 35 (11 CAD).

See Also: What to Expect on a Homestay in Southeast Asia

Day 4: Hike through Cameron Highlands

Start your day off at BOH Plantations, where you can get a first-hand look at how tealeaves are picked and processed, before trying local teas and desserts. If you love to hike, there are an abundance of nature trails that offer breathtaking sights along the way. Signage can be sparse, so make sure to purchase a trail map to avoid getting lost. And if hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry. The Cameron Highlands are the largest producer of flowers and tea in Malaysia, meaning a rich sea of green will surround you no matter where you look. Just relax and take in the remarkable view.

Penang Island

Situated on the northwest coast of Malaysia is Penang, one of the country’s most popular islands. Here, you’ll discover a rich heritage combined with delicious street food. Travelling from the Cameron Highlands to Penang takes about four hours by bus and costs as little as RM 30 (about 10 CAD).

See Also: Your Guide to Getting (and Flying With) a Tattoo in Southeast Asia

Day 5: Experience Georgetown

Ask any local and they’ll tell you that Penang is most famous for its street food. Eat your way through the island’s signature noodle dishes, from Char Koay Teow and Penang Assam Laksa to Mee Goreng. Not only is the food incredibly tasty, but also it’s incredibly cheap! The best eats can be found at hawker centres and stalls, where most dishes cost no more than RM 10-20 (3-7 CAD).

Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets of Georgetown, a well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site synonymous with Penang. Uncover an eclectic mix of modern and traditional colonial architecture, with creative murals and graffiti scattered throughout. The area is also home to the Clan Jetties of Penang, floating settlements created by Chinese immigrants who shared the same historical origin and surname. Step back in time with a leisurely stroll through Chew Jetty and enjoy a picturesque waterfront sunset.

End your day in Georgetown with a unique night out at of Penang’s many speakeasy and hidden bars, such as Golden Shower , Secret Door, or Magazine 63 .  

Day 6: Tour Kek Lok Si Temple & Penang Hill

Set atop the slopes of Air Itam is Kek Lok Si Temple, Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temple founded over 100 years ago. This magnificent temple complex is filled with exquisite gardens, striking monasteries, prayer halls, and temples.

Nearby is Penang Hill, one of the city’s best-known tourist attractions located 821 meters above sea level. To get to the top, you’ll have to hop on the Penang Hill Funicular Railway—one of the steepest and longest tunnel tracks in the world. A standard round-trip ticket is RM 30 (about $10 CAD) per person, or slightly more for the express lane. On a clear day, take in the surrounding mountains and entire city from above. On a clear night, enjoy a panoramic view of the city lit up in all its glory.

Day 7: Enjoy Batu Ferringhi’s beaches

On your last day, unwind at Batu Ferringhi Beach, a stunning stretch of soft sand just 30-40 minute north of Georgetown by car. There are plenty of water activities available, from parasailing and jet skiing to hopping on a banana boat ride. But be warned, there are plenty of jellyfish lurking in the waters, so keep an eye out if you decide to go for a swim. Come sunset, nearby streets are lined with shopping stalls selling everything from handicraft items and cheap clothing to eclectic souvenirs—just remember to haggle!

The best time to visit

While the weather is generally hot and humid year-round, there is a clear split between the east and west coast when it comes to monsoon season. The west coast islands near Penang enjoy drier weather from December to April, while the east coast islands enjoy drier weather April to October. It rains almost daily in the lowlands where Kuala Lumpur and the Cameron Highlands, so there isn’t much of a difference between dry and wet season.

From its vibrant heritage and multiculturalism to its magnificent landscapes, Malaysia is a must-see country when exploring Southeast Asia.

Have you been to Malaysia? Where did you visit? Share your highlights in the comments below!

Stephanie Ling

Stephanie is a content creator and adventure seeker who recently returned from a three-month solo trip across Asia. When she's not writing, she spends most of her time shopping, dogspotting, and planning for her next big trip.

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MALAYSIA Travel Guide: Trip Highlights, Itineraries, & Tips

Welcome to Malaysia!

Malaysia is an amazing and diverse country that has something to offer everyone.  If you’re looking for amazing food, gorgeous islands, and beautiful landscapes — Malaysia is a destination you should highly consider for your next holiday.  I have traveled pretty extensively through Peninsular Malaysia, and it has grown to become one of my favorite countries in entire world!  I’ve compiled this Malaysia Travel Guide as a source for people planning trips to this amazing country.

This guide will go over trip highlights, how to get around Malaysia, Malaysia itineraries, and general travel advice!

Hope you enjoy reading my Malaysia Travel Guide and favorite photos from my travels!

Note:  This Malaysia Travel Guide will focus entirely on Peninsular Malaysia.  I have never traveled to Sabah or Sarawak, and am not too well informed about those areas of the country. 

Traveling to Malaysia soon…?  I’d definitely recommend purchasing the Malaysia Lonely Planet Travel Guide !  I pretty much always travel with a LP guidebook, and it can definitely a huge asset on the road!

Pulau Kapas, Malaysia

 Malaysia Trip Highlights

Kuala lumpur.

You’ll most likely be starting your Malaysian holidays in the amazing capital city — Kuala Lumpur.  This is truly a special place with friendly people, beautiful sights, and delicious food (just like the rest of Malaysia).  During my travels in South-East Asia , I was lucky enough to call this city home for awhile.  The first time I visited Kuala Lumpur I actually didn’t enjoy the city too much, but after spending more time there I discovered how special the city really is.

Check out the following blog posts I’ve written:

• 10 Amazing Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
• Heli Lounge, Kuala Lumpur; Drinks + Sunset on a Helipad
• The Absolute Best Thing To Do in Kuala Lumpur

TOP KUALA LUMPUR TIP

Sign up for AirBNB , and stay at the REGALIA CONDOMINIUM .  I used to live there, and it’s by far the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

It’s luxury complex that has all the amenities you’d want, perfectly located, and  has the most amazing infinity pool.   There is a mall right next door with a grocery store, movie theater, and tons of other shops.  Also, if you sign up for AirBNB with this link , you’ll get $38 off your first visit!   Which is easily a free-nights accommodation at The Regalia!   Trust me.  You want to stay here!

Best Hostel in Kuala Lumpur

Reggae Mansion

  Perfect location, amazing rooms, and wildly crazy rooftop parties every night!  If you’re backpacking around Malaysia, than you have to stay at Reggae Mansion!  This place does sell out, so check rates & availability !

Penang is the cultural hotspot in Malaysia!  You’ll fall in love with it’s busy streets, beautiful artwork, and enchanting history.  Oh, and the food is absolutely amazing.   Most people come to Penang only planning a few day stay, but end up staying much longer than they expected.  You can spend a day on Batu Ferringi beach, hike through the National Park, and take the journey up to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the entire city.        

Best things to do in Penang:

• Beach day and sunset on Batu Ferringi Beach
• Spend some time hiking through the National Park
• Take a visit to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the city
• Stroll through Georgetown and check out all the artwork
• Eat at Penang’s famous hawker stalls

Best Hostel in Penang

Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel :   This is a recently opened hostel in Penang,and has excellent affordable rooms, very well-located in George town, and a really cool Japanese theme.  It’s got terrific reviews by everyone, and you’ll love your stay here!   Check rates & availability .

Officially known as Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea, around 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia.  It’s right at the border of Thailand, and is a popular place to visit for traveller’s going north/south between Malaysia and Thailand.  It is truly an amazing island with amazing things to do, cheap accommodations, tax-free booze, and beautiful landscape.

Check out some of my blog posts on Langkawi:

• A Backpacker’s Guide to Langkawi, Malaysia
• Top 5 Reasons to Backpack Langkawi
• Berjaya Resort Crashing in Langkawi
• Chasing Waterfalls in Langkawi

Best Hostel in Langkawi

Langkawi Dormitorio :  

Just footsteps away from the beach, this perfectly located hostel had comfortable rooms, great prices, and an excellent atmosphere!   Langkawi Dormitorio .

Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands is a stunning hill station in central peninsular Malaysia, and has become a popular destination for visitors in Malaysia. Roughly the size of Singapore, the Cameron Highlands covers a large stretch of land, and there’s tons to see, do, and explore.  You’ll fall in love with the beautiful green tea plantations, and will leave you speechless when you visit the highest peak in the Cameron Highlands

For more information on the Cameron Highlands, check out the guide below!

• A Backpacker’s Guide to the Cameron Highlands

Best Hostel in The Cameron Highlands:

CH Traveler’s INN :  

A newly opened hostel in the center of Tanah Rata, and simply the best place to stay on a budget for traveler’s visiting the Cameron Highlands!   Check rates & availability .

Taman Negara

Teman Negara National Park is the perfect place for travelers who love wild life viewing, jungle trekking, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, camping and many more. It is well established as one of the most popular ecotourism in Malaysia.  Popular activities include the canopy walk, jungle trekking, rapid shooting, cave exploration, and boat cruises.

Recommend days spent here:  1-2 days max

Check out the Teman Negara National Park website for more information

The Perhentian Islands

Welcome to paradise.  The Perhentian Islands consist of both Perhentian Kecil & Perhentian Besar.  They are both absolutely stunning, and the minute you step foot on of the two islands you’ll never want to leave.   I’ve visited Perhentian Kecil on two different occasions now, and I definitely would not mind going back for a third.  The beaches are gorgeous, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the nightlife can get pretty crazy.

Perhentian Kecil is more for a younger crowd.  It’s much more lively at night and has an incredible fireshow.  Perhentian Besar has a lot more resorts, and is a bit more family oriented.

If you’re going to Malaysia — you’d be mistaken to skip the Perhentian Islands!

Check out my blog posts on this paradise island!

• A Backpacker’s Guide to the Perhentian Islands
• The Perhentian Islands: Perfectly Picturesque (Photo Essay)

Pulau Kapas

Pulau Kapas is an idyllic island escape for those looking for a bit more of a remote location.  You won’t find any big crazy resorts, fast wi-fi connection, or luxury restaurants.  What you will be rewarded with is amazingly beautiful water, suburb underwater life, and an extremely laidback atmosphere.  Pulau Kapas is truly a Malaysian gem, and I guarantee if you go for a couple days you won’t regret it!

For more information about traveling to Pulau Kapas:

• The Ultimate Guide to Pulau Kapas, Malaysia
• Longsha Beach Camping on Pulau Kapas, Malaysia
• Pulau Kapas: The Most Beautiful Island in Malaysia (Photo Essay)

Tioman Island

If you’ve looking for some more island action, than definitely make your way over to Tioman Island.  It isn’t as gorgeous as the Perhentians or Kapas, but it has some of the best scuba-diving sites in the whole country.  The island is pretty massive, and is a 2-hour ferry ride from the mainland.  It is a DUTY-FREE island, which makes drinking on this island pretty cheap!  It’s a popular destination for weekend trips from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, so book in advance if you plan on being there on a Saturday & Sunday.  If you do plan on going, I’d definitely recommend staying on ABC Beach.

When I was there, I happened to catch really bad weather, and had some transportation issues.  I still had a great trip.  Read about it below:

• A Weekend Trip to Tioman Island

Melaka is just a short bus ride away from Kuala Lumpur, and can be a great place to spend one night.  It’s small enough to walk around, explore, and try some delicious food.  There’s not a whole lot to see here, but it’s definitely worth the visit.

To plan your visit, check out this post titled:

• Top 15 Places To See in Melaka

Getting Around Malaysia

The Malaysian transportation is some of the best I’ve found in all of South-East Asia.  Prices are relatively low, there’s tons of options, and they are all relatively comfortable.

Flights / Airfare

Malaysia is actually a really easy country to book extremely cheap domestic flights.

• Malindo Air

If you know your exact dates, you can actually get great flight deals.  Malindo Air is really great and includes 1 20kh checked bag.  These are particularly useful for flights to/from Kuala Lumpur.

Perhentian Islands

Traveling around Malaysia on the bus transport is actually really easy, budget friendly, and comfortable.  There are loads of different companies that offer a ton of different routes.  None of the journeys take that long, and the busses can actually be really nice.  For bus schedules, routes, and fares, check out the website below.  I’ve booked online tickets with them, and made the process extremely easy.  You can just show the email confirmation at the bus station, and receive your ticket.

• EasyBook.com

• Hitchhiking in Malaysia

Just like in any destination, you should be careful when hitching a ride alone.  With that being said, Hitchhiking in Malaysia can be done, and it’s actually not too difficult.  I met these Spanish girls on Pulau Kapas who found a ride all the way from Teman Negara – Kuala Terranganu.  It’s not that it saves a ton of money, but it’s a great way to meet some local people, and have a unique travel experience.  For more information on Hitchhiking in Malaysia check the website below:

Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur

• Trains in Malaysia

I’ve actually never taken a train in Malaysia, but I have heard that the system works out.  I almost boarded a train from Penang – Kuala Lumpur, but ended up extending my stay in Penang, and finding a flight that was cheaper than the train!  I honestly think that dealing with trains on other routes would just get complicated, so I’d just personally recommend Flights and Busses over taking trains in Malaysia.

Sunset on Tioman Island

Renting A Car

I’ve never rented a car and explored Malaysia on my own (mainly because I’m a solo budget traveler), but I have had some friends rent a van and go on weekend trips from Kuala Lumpur.  It’s definitely not the best option for everyone,

Jeep Excursions in the Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Trip Itineraries

If you look at each of these locations on a map, you can see that it actually fits pretty well

One Week Malaysia Itinerary

If you are only in Malaysia for a brief visit, than you want to enjoy your holiday.  My advice would be to enjoy 2-3 days in Kuala Lumpur, and fly to either Penang for 3-4 days.  You don’t want to rush around each destination, because you will want enough time to enjoy each place and do all the activities.

Two Week Malaysia Itinerary

Days 1-3 — Kuala Lumpur

Take a morning bus to Teman Negara

Days 4-5 — Teman Negara

Book the early bus ticket to the Cameron Highlands

Days 6-7 —  Exploring the Cameron Highlands

Book the early departure bus to Penang

Days 8-10 — Penang

Catch the two hour ferry to Langkawi

Days 11-13 — Langkawi

Catch a domestic flight from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur

Day 14 // End of Trip — Kuala Lumpur for your outgoing flight..

Island Hopping Boats in Langkawi

Three Week Malaysia Itinerary

Book transportation to Marang Jetty for access to Pulau Kapas (Close to Kuala Terranganu)

Days 8-10 — Pulau Kapas & Gem Island

Book early morning boat back to mainland, and get to main bus station.  Book transport to Perhentian Islands

Days 11-15 — The Perhentians Islands

Book Domestic Flight from Kuala Terrananu Airport – Penang.  Cheap fares available if booked in advanced. 

Days 16-17 – Penang

Days 18-20 — Langkawi

Day 21 // End of Trip — Kuala Lumpur for your outgoing flight..

Water & Lights show at KLCC

One Month in Malaysia Itinerary

If you have a full month in Malaysia, I honestly would just recommend to follow the 3-week itinerary, but travel slower.  This will also allow flexibility with the domestic flights, and also spending less time on travel.  I would also recommend staying in Kuala Lumpur for an extra couple days, and doing a one-day trip to Melaka.  If you want to see it all, you can switch up this itinerary to add Pulau Tioman, but I would honestly skip it.  I found it to be really touristy, difficult to get to, and there are much better islands and beaches in Malaysia.

If you have even more time in Malaysia, look out for cheap domestic flights over to Borneo.  You could scuba-dive off the coasts of the world famous Sipadan island, or hike the highest peak in Malaysia — Mt. Kinabalu!

General Malaysia Travel Advice

Eat as much as you possibly can!  The food in Malaysia is absolutely incredible.  When you get to Kuala Lumpur, check out a Nasi Kandar and try the various curries, Roti Canai, and Nasi Lemak!

Interact with the locals!  Malaysian people are extremely friendly, and generally speak really great English!  They are very open and welcome to tourism, and can be a great experience.

Understand you are in a Muslim country!  Be respectful with your clothing!

Get a local SIM card!  Malaysia has a wide variety of phone plans, and it will come in handy to have 3G / 4G internet when your traveling.  I’d recommend Tune Talk.  There are great prices and deals, and it’s good coverage.

Download my Free E-Book — 77 Amazing, Helpful, Money-Saving Tips for Backpacking South-East Asia .  This goes over a ton of valuable information for Malaysia!

If you haven’t figured it out by reading this post, I have traveled pretty extensively throughout Malaysia.   I think it’s an amazing country, and am always thinking about going soon and exploring different parts.  I’m actually dying to get over to Borneo, but I’m sure that time will come eventually.

If you’re ever planning a trip to Malaysia, feel free to Contact Me with any questions!

Thanks for reading!

Share the Malaysian Love!  

What a great resource! Malaysia is toward the top of my travel list…hopefully I’ll have the time to do the 3 or 4-week itinerary!

Thanks for the great info!

Glad you like it Sarah! :) When you do go to Malaysia, I guarantee you’ll love it! It’s such an amazing country, and so much fun to travel around! Enjoy!

Glad I could help out man! It really is an amazing country! I can’t wait to get back and explore even more.

Thanks for the information. It is really helpful. I am planing to go to Malaysia next month but i only have a week. Perhentian islans sounds like an amaizing place. I am between going there or visit Bali. What do you reckon? Thanks

Regards Gara

Hmm. Bali or Perhentian? Tough Decision. TO be honest, I’d probably choose Bali because you can do a whole lot more in one week. Bali is kinda small, but packed with stuff to do. Perhentian is more of a chill-out, diving destination. Let me know if you have any other questions.

Hello, I am crazy about looking for amazing food, gorgeous islands, and beautiful landscapes ans Malaysia is my dream destination. your blog has very rich content which includes numerous photographs of spots, Island, culture..and many more. Nicely organized and detailed blog.

Thanks so much Jesse! Awesome to hear my site is helping you out! :-)

Hey thanks man for giving this list.I will go Malaysia with my friends in next years.But i don’t know which place to start travel.But after read this i got a brief idea.I will go for 15 days tour.Hope you list will fulfill my journey.Can you give me a list of affordable hotels of Malaysia?

Hey Tina, I normally stayed in hostels because I was a super budget traveler in Asia, lol. I’d just check booking.com and read reviews and everything. :-)

Hi if u wanna come to malaysia and need me to guide you just whatsapp me – +601129293631 or dm me on instagram @hakimzakaria98

What an awesome blog! I’m heading to KL tomorrow from Sebah, I only have a week and at abit of a loss with figuring out what i can squeeze in and what not to miss. This is really helpful, so much info all in one place.

Thankyou! :)

So happy to help! Enjoy Malaysia! :-)

Hi! I’m Thien from Vietnam. I was in Malaysia a couple of years ago. Your sharing strongly reminds me of my traveling experiences when in Malay. Thanks greatly for that!

Would you like to try out some wonderful places in Vietnam? Check out this Things to do in Vietnam for various useful suggestions.

Hope that you can visit and explore our country one day.

Wow! Nice post! I love KUALA LUMPUR in Malaysia. It is my favorite place! Me and my Keymalaysia team already visited there!

Been in love with Malaysia ever since our first visit. Their beaches and rich culture is outstanding! Definitely coming back soon. So many more islands and sites to explore. Such a detailed and informative post you have! Kudos!

Hey, this blog is so helpful!!

We’ve got 2 weeks in Malaysia, we’d like to go to Penang, Langkawi, Perhentian Kecil, Pulau Kapas and of course Kuala Lumpur which we fly in and out of. Could you give me any info on how to get from each place please?

Any advice would be great thankyou!

Do u have a travel agency ? or just a traveler ?

Nice Malaysia Travel post author. Thank you. Keep it up.

Nice post author.Thank you.

I adore Malaysia – the beaches, food, street art and culture is the best, not to mention the scuba diving! Your guide has inspired me to return when I can, thanks Jones!

Thanks so much for this! Very useful guide  

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Plan Your Trip

Malaysia starts here.

I spent literally years creating the perfect Malaysia itinerary. A pair of aborted visits (in 2010 and 2016) preceded my first serious trip to the country (in 2017) so that by the time I finally gave Malaysia the attention it deserved, I was practically an expert on the country. Subsequent trips in the early 2020s have further deepened my understanding.

Indeed, I’ve been back so many times since my “big” trip, which saw me spend about 2 weeks in Malaysia—I’m so excited to share what I’ve learned. Without getting too far ahead of myself, I’d say Malaysia is simultaneously the most underrated country in Southeast Asia and the one I’m glad I waited until my 30s to truly visit.

What I’m about to share with you will not only be a celebration of beautiful places in Malaysia , nor a compendium of practical travel advice, but an engaging near-decade of travel stories that will help you quickly understand Malaysia—and take your own trip that I hope is even better than all of mine.

Practical Matters

When to visit malaysia.

Like much of the rest of Southeast Asia , Malaysia has a wet season and a dry season. Unfortunately, since Malaysia is more geographically spread out than, say, Thailand, demarcating each of these seasons (they’re different on the peninsula, for example, than they are on Borneo) isn’t an easy matter. For example, while June is the best month to explore the jungles of Sarawak, it’s the wettest month in Kuala Lumpur. No matter when you end up executing this itinerary, Malaysia will probably “gift” you with some rain, even if it’s technically a good time to visit.

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Whether you stay 1 week in Malaysia or an entire month, Malaysia is one of the cheapest places in the world to stay in nice hotels, be they five-star properties such as the Majestic in Kuala Lumpur , or boutique properties such as Noordin Mews in Penang and the Ranee Boutique Suites in Kuching. On the other hand, if you happen to be traveling on a budget, hostels and budget hotels throughout Malaysia are dirt cheap, even compared to many neighboring countries. As far as I’m concerned, some of the best hotels in Malaysia are also the most affordable, which is good if your answer for how long to stay in Malaysia is “a long time.”

How to Get Around Malaysia

Malaysia has probably the second-best infrastructure in Southeast Asia, after Singapore, which means that getting around is easy. For long distances, flights on Malaysia Airlines or AirAsia are fast and relatively economical, although buses are sometimes the only option, such as to the Cameron Highlands, which doesn’t have its own airport. Within cities (and I do mean almost every large Malaysian city, as of March 2017), Uber is the way to go. You can even use Uber as transport for day trips, such as to Penang National Park outside of George Town.

Money, Costs and Communication

Malaysia uses the Malaysian ringgit (MYR), whose value has been low the past several years against major currencies, including the USD, EUR and GBP. As a result, travel in Malaysia is cheap—budget travelers should easily be able to stay under 50 USD per person, per day, while a relatively luxurious standard is accessible at around 100 USD per person, per day, for food, lodging and transport.

Wi-Fi is prevalent in Malaysia but, I’m sad to report, is among the slowest I’ve experienced anywhere.Thankfully, mobile internet is much faster and is very cheap, not to mention easy to get. In fact, you can buy a Malaysia SIM card kit at any 7-11 in the country!

Malaysia Visas

The great news? Travelers with most nationalities qualify for visa-exempt entry to Malaysia, with countries like the US and UK enjoying a generous allowance of 90 days upon arrival. Additionally, visitors to Malaysia are advised to register for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) prior to arrival, which facilitates a smoother entry process at immigration.

Places to See in Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

Prior to 2017, Kuala Lumpur was the only place I’d seen in Malaysia, and I hadn’t even really seen it if I’m being honest. In fact, it was the amazing time I had in KL (as it’s known) in early 2017 that motivated me to plan my Malaysia 2 week itinerary, instead of continuing to China ‘s Yunnan province as I’d originally intended.

My favorite thing about Kuala Lumpur is how eclectic it is, whether you explore ethnic neighborhoods like Petaling Street (Chinatown) or Little India , make exotic day trips to stunning Batu Caves , colonial Malacca or regal Putrajaya , revel at the base of the Petronas Twin Towers or look onto them from the greenery of the KL Bird Park  or majestic Merdeka Square .

When most tourists say “Penang” what they actually mean is George Town , the historical and beautiful capital city of Penang, a massive island (and a good-sized chunk of the mainland!) that is Malaysia’s only Chinese-majority state. George Town embodies the same sort of eclecticism as KL, and while there are a few skyscrapers, its claim to fame is less about tall buildings and more about old ones.

But George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site , which includes dozens of religious monuments, the Clan Jetties and the Cheong Fatt Tze “Blue Mansion,” is only the beginning of this cauldron of charm in the middle of your Malaysia 1 week itinerary. George Town is famous for street food (oyster omelettes, for example, and spicy laksa soup) and street art, although I wasn’t too enamored by the latter. While Penang’s beaches aren’t great, jungle trekking in nearby Penang National Park is enjoyable. Meanwhile, enjoy a stunning panorama of George Town from Penang Hill .

Cameron Highlands

Malaysia’s tea-producing region, the Cameron Highlands , sits roughly halfway between Kuala Lumpur and Penang as you make your way north up the Malaysian peninsula. The tea plantations here are beautiful and idyllic, and proved to be among the most scenic photo spots in all of my two weeks in Malaysia.

On the other hand, the two principal cities of this region are rather busy and grey, which makes spending more than a couple of days here a frustrating experience, if you’re looking for relaxation that is. To be sure, while there are some non-tea activities here—namely visiting strawberry farms and rose gardens—tea is the beginning and end of why you’re likely to come to the Cameron Highlands.

The furthest east portion of Malaysian Borneo, Sabah consists of the city of Kota Kinabalu , Mount Kinabalu and a number of jungle and beach destinations of dazzling beauty. In spite of this seeming tourism treasure trove, on paper, Sabah was by far my least favorite part of my Malaysia itinerary, for reasons I will explain in future posts (I’ll link them here when complete).

To be sure, while the group of islands near the town of Semporna are absolutely stunning, the mechanics of traveling there are chaotic, a fact compounded by the incompetence of the governmental authority that controls permitting for the region. Likewise, while Kota Kinabalu has some charms, it’s grey and industrial in a way that almost cancels out the natural majesty around it.

On the other hand, Sarawak was probably my single favorite destination in Malaysia. This began and ended with the awesomeness of Kuching , a charming, clean and green city nestled along the banks of the Sarawak River , but also had a great deal to do with the other attractions of the state, not to mention the proximity to Kuching.

For example, while the day trips I took in Sabah required expensive taxi rides and even flights, I was able to take Uber to visit Semenggoh Nature Reserve , home to a population of wild orangutans that are being rehabilitated, and to Bako National Park , where you can take half- and full-day hikes that feel way farther from the city than they are. For these reasons, Sarawak is not only a great place to visit, but the perfect destination to end your two weeks in Malaysia itinerary.

Other Malaysia Destinations

Or, look back at your planned Malaysia itinerary and add some other places in. For example, the city of Kuala Terengganu on peninsular Malaysia’s east coast, which is usually the gateway to the Perhentian Islands but is also home to the unique Crystal Mosque .

Other places to visit if you want to discover more of Malaysia include Langkawi island (which is near Penang, and even closer to Thailand ), the very rural parts of Sarawak (including Bario where my dear friend Lilian is from) and even an excursion to the controversial sultanate of Brunei .

Magnificent Malaysia Itinerary Examples

A bit of everything.

If the majority of this post has appealed to you, then you might want to follow closely in the footsteps of my “big” Malaysia trip:

• 2-3 days in Kuala Lumpur
• 1-2 days in the Cameron Highlands
• 2-3 days in Penang
• 1 night in Kuala Terennganu
• 2-3 days in Sabah
• 2-3 days in Sarawak

Note that while it took me about two weeks to string together these Malaysia destinations, I moved at a much faster pace than the average traveler.

Don’t have time for a 2 week Malaysia itinerary? Don’t worry! With a week in Malaysia, you can see the following highlights:

The best part? If you have a shorter time, you can always subtract one of these, while a longer trip allows you to extent your stay in KL or Penang.

Best of Borneo

Borneo is my favorite part of Malaysia, in spite of how unfavorably my Malaysian friends described it. Focus on Borneo by structuring your trip as follows:

• 1-2 days in Kota Kinabalu
• 2-3 days in Semporna
• 2-3 days in Kuching
• 2-3 days in Miri/Bario

As I alluded to earlier in this Malaysia itinerary, you could also use this trip as an opportunity to visit Brunei , if you’re curious (and not afraid for your life ).

Slow Malaysia Travel

If you’re less concerned about specific places to see in Malaysia and more concerned about the quality of your trip, consider taking a trip in the vein of the following:

• 3-5 days in the Cameron Higlands
• 3-5 days in Penang or Langkawi
• 3-5 days in Miri/Bario and/or Semporna
• 3-5 days in Kuala Lumpur

Time not an issue? Feel free to double or even triple my suggested durations!

How Long Should You Spend in Malaysia?

As you’ll understand very well by now, there’s far more Malaysia sightseeing than first meets the eye. Even if you simply travel between cities, tea fields and rainforests, the two-week figure I floated earlier is a bare-minimum number, as far as I’m concerned. To put it another way, two weeks in Malaysia is advisable primarily if you take advantage of my Travel Coaching service , wherein I plan a custom itinerary for you.

Well, at least if you plan to take a comprehensive trip. As for as how long to stay in Malaysia, you can see Malaysia in a week, for example, if you visit plan to visit KL, Penang and the Cameron Highlands. Conversely, if you plan to dig even more deeply into secondary and tertiary destinations than I did (for instance the Perhentian Islands off Kuala Teregganu, or tiny Bario in Sarawak), a month in Malaysia or even longer might be a better choice than one week in Malaysia.

Other Malaysia Travel FAQ

Is malaysia worth visiting.

Malaysia is absolutely worth visiting! Whether for the alluring mix of cultures in Kuala Lumpur, the relaxing greenery of Cameron Highlands, the Chinese cuisine of Penang or the wildness of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo, Malaysia is truly Asia, just as the country’s official marketing slogan suggests.

How much should I budget for a trip to Malaysia?

I generally recommend travelers budget between 25-100 USD per person, per day in Malaysia, not including flights to and from the country. If you spend two weeks in Malaysia, for example, this would amount to a cost of between 350-1,400 per person, depending on whether you’re a backpacker or a bougey boutique hotel traveler.

Is Malaysia cheaper than Thailand?

Although certain things in Malaysia are cheaper than in Thailand (namely accommodation and street food), I find the cost of traveling in both countries ends up being about the same when all is said and done. Read my articles “Is Thailand Cheap?” and “Is Malaysia Expensive?” for more insight.

The Bottom Line

This Malaysia itinerary was literally years—no, almost a decade—in the making. And while it’s based largely off my own personal experiences, I do believe the destinations and experiences contained within it make a solid bedrock for any Malaysia trip. Start in KL and spend a week on the peninsula, or double your length of time in Malaysia and venture over to Borneo island. No matter where you go in Malaysia or how long you spend there, I have a feeling you’re going to be as impressed and enchanted as I am every time—Malaysia is truly Asia!

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Top Destinations in Malaysian Borneo

Sarawak vs. Sabah

Guide to Kuching

Visiting Kalimantan

Guide to the Derawan Islands

Brunei Travel Guide

Top Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo

Museums to Visit

Best Beaches

Where to Go Scuba Diving

Best Hiking in Borneo

National Parks

Where to See Orangutans

Events & Festivals

Food to Try

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in Borneo

Best Hotels in Borneo

Staying at an Iban Longhouse

Driving in Borneo

One Week in Borneo

One Week in Borneo: The Ultimate Itinerary

Ben Queenborough / Getty Images

Welcome to the third largest island in the world. With only one week in Borneo , you’ll have to move quickly while taking advantage of regional flights, as overland journeys are too long and arduous in the rugged interior. The effort will be rewarded, however, with memorable people, places, and walks through rainforests teeming with biodiversity.

Seeing everything is obviously impossible, so this one-week itinerary for Borneo brings you to the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak along with a bonus visit to Brunei. Although Kalimantan, the Indonesian side of Borneo , makes up 73 percent of the island and is blessed with many tempting places, traveling there can be time consuming. Irregular flight schedules and frequent transportation delays often make short work of an itinerary without enough buffer days built in.

Day 1: Sandakan, Sabah

Kuching and Kota Kinabalu seem the most obvious choices, but travelers with a short amount of time in Borneo should consider starting their adventure in Sandakan, a city on the west coast of Sabah. The three-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur can be as inexpensive as $50 .

Numerous guesthouses, cafés, and eateries are clustered along the edge of the rainforest just west of Sandakan. For convenience, choose one of the eco-hotels near Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre ; Sepilok Nature Resort (3-star) and Sepilok Jungle Resort (2-star) are two popular places to stay within walking distance.

Begin your first day by walking to Sepilok (5 minutes); get there by 10 a.m. to catch the morning feeding, when fruit left on a platform by rangers sometimes lures shy, semi-wild orangutans within camera range. These orangutans are free to roam but are still being rehabilitated back into their native habitat after becoming orphaned or rescued from captivity. Watch the short film at Sepilok and learn all you can about earth’s most intelligent primate; sadly, they are critically endangered, and wild orangutans can only be found in Borneo and Sumatra.

Next, stop in at the Rainforest Discovery Centre next door. The RDC will prep you for what exciting plants and creatures you’ll see the rest of the trip. Climb up to the canopy walk suspended 82 feet above ground to look for colorful birds before checking out orchids and carnivorous plants in the Discovery Garden.

Enjoy a quick dinner nearby, then book a Grab rideshare (or request a driver at reception ) to one of the lodges in Sukau, a small village around 2.5 hours away. If you arrive in time, you can join one of the night excursions along the muddy Kinabatangan River to look for saltwater crocodiles.

Day 2: The Kinabatangan River and Sandakan, Sabah

John W Banagan / Getty Images

Wake up early to float silently along Malaysia’s second longest river, where long-nosed proboscis monkeys and other exciting wildlife live along the swampy banks. The Kinabatangan River Sanctuary is also home to pygmy elephants and rhinoceros, but seeing them requires a lot of luck.

Have a light lunch at your lodge then head back toward Sandakan by car. You'll be flying to Kota Kinabalu later in the day, so depending on the time of your flight, you have the option of stopping at the Gomantong Caves along the way. Visitors can explore the Black Cave by a network of boardwalks in this impressive cave system, which is a primary source for edible swiftlet nests (an expensive and controversial delicacy in Asia). Lots of scavengers live in the guano below; give the caves a miss if you’re creepie-crawlie adverse!

Sandakan isn’t large, so no need to spend too much time waiting at the airport. Instead, visit the war memorial park just 10 minutes away. The garden commemorates the thousands of POWs who died during the infamous WWII death marches in Borneo. Afterward, call into the English Tea House & Restaurant for a drink with nice views of Sandakan and the coast. For a proper meal, head over to Sim Sim Seafood or one of the many other seafood restaurants built on stilts along the coast.

Fly onward to Kota Kinabalu and spend the night there.

Day 3: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

EvgenyBuzov / Getty Images

Kota Kinabalu , Sabah’s capital city, has plenty of charms. But you’ll want some beach time, and leaving Borneo without experiencing the marine life would be a crime. Since getting to the Derawan Islands in Kalimantan —one of the top places in the world for marine biodiversity and nesting sea turtles—with only one week in Borneo isn't practical, head out to the conveniently located Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park instead. Hop among the five islands by speedboat, and relax on the white-sand beaches in between snorkeling or diving . Be on the lookout for whale sharks, which pass through in the spring months.

After a day of sun, return to Kota Kinabalu for some shopping and sightseeing. Go enjoy sunset and the evening street performers at Tanjung Aru , the park and beach at the southern end of town. Strolling Gaya Street and the waterfront is a good way to sample the vibe and delicious street food in Kota Kinabalu , especially on Sundays when there's a large market.

Day 4: Kinabalu Park

Nora Carol Photography / Getty Images

You won’t have the two fulls days and a night to get a permit and climb Mount Kinabalu , Malaysia’s tallest mountain (13,435 feet), but you can still enjoy the national park on the slopes. The best way to take advantage is to book one of the popular day trips that include transportation (two hours) each way.

The flora and fauna in Kinabalu Park earned it UNESCO World Heritage status  . At least 800 species of orchids have been documented around Mount Kinabalu, and you’ll get to see carnivorous pitcher plants as well. Ask a ranger if there are any known Rafflesia flowers in bloom; it’s one of the largest and strangest flowers in the world. You can also watch for some of Kinabalu’s 326 documented species of birds, including hornbills, while enjoying the canopy walk.

Many tours involve a trip to the Poring Hot Springs, another hour of driving beyond the entrance to Kinabalu Park. Although going further to get boiled on an already hot day doesn't sound appealing, Poring has numerous other attractions, including a bat cave, butterfly farm, and canopy walk. If you prefer more time at the national park, ask about foregoing the hot springs.

Return to Kota Kinabalu after a long day and indulge in Malay or Indian food—choices for tempting eateries seem limitless—then pack up and prepare to fly to Brunei in the morning.

Day 5: Brunei Darussalam

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Brunei, the smallest country of three sharing Borneo , isn’t often on tourists’ radar. The oil-rich sultanate is barely larger than the U.S. state of Delaware, but the residents enjoy a relatively high standard of living. The infrastructure in Brunei is excellent; travelers won’t have any trouble popping in for a day to explore Bandar Seri Begawan , the interesting capital. Royal Brunei Airlines offers inexpensive, 45-minute flights to Bandar Seri Begawan from Kota Kinabalu.

Bandar Seri Begawan Airport is right in the city, and after checking into your hotel, go explore! You can opt for a tour, but the capital is compact enough to grab a map and walk or take taxis as needed. Keep in mind that Brunei is considered the most observant of Islamic countries in Southeast Asia—you’ll need to dress modestly to enter museums and mosques.

The mosques around Bandar Seri Begawan are impressively photogenic. Check out a couple before seeing Kampong Ayer, a sprawling water village that’s home to more than 10,000 people. For a glimpse of how one of the richest men in the world lives, stop in at the Royal Regalia Museum. The museum contains gifts from world leaders to the Sultan of Brunei along with other gold-covered artifacts from his eclectic life. Entrance is free.

After a day of sightseeing, sample some of Brunei’s delicious roti and curry dishes. Prepare to fly to Sarawak (two hours) in the morning.

Day 6: Kuching, Sarawak

Imaad Wahid / EyeEm / Getty Images

Arrive in Kuching, the pleasant capital of Sarawak that’s often a favorite for many travelers. The airport is located only 15 minutes south of town.

Kuching means "cat" in Malay; that’s why statues of cats adorn roundabouts. The city is boasted as one of the cleanest in Asia, and the waterfront esplanade is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Borneo. The few touts are friendly, and hassle is generally low in Kuching. If your visit coincides with the annual Rainforest World Music Festival held there every summer, watch out—it’s going to be busy!

After flying to Kuching, head 45 minutes north by car to the Sarawak Cultural Village . With only a week to spend in Borneo, you won’t have time to stay in a difficult-to-reach Iban longhouse in the jungle; fortunately, the Sarawak Cultural Village is a living museum spread over 17 beautiful acres with demonstration longhouses from the various Indigenous peoples. Spend the day learning about the Dayak tribes and their way of life in the rainforest. The daily cultural shows take place at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.; the grounds close at 5 p.m.

Return to Kuching and enjoy an inexpensive seafood feast at Top Spot Food Court or one of the other nearby restaurants. We said hassle is low in Kuching, but Top Spot may be the exception as touts shout to lure you with menus. Choose a stall then order midin —a crunchy rainforest fern—as a healthy side dish; this may be your only chance to try it, as finding it outside of Sarawak is nearly impossible. If the squirming seafood at Top Spot makes you squeamish, consider trying Sarawak’s unique version of laksa , a spicy noodle soup (note: it contains shrimp).

Day 7: Bako National Park

Grant Dixon / Getty Images

If you haven’t yet managed to see an orangutan while in Borneo —nothing is guaranteed when wildlife is concerned—this may be your last chance! Go 30 minutes south of town to the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre ; feeding times are at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Much like Sepilok in Sabah, Semenggoh is home to free-roaming orangutans learning how to manage themselves in the wild again.

Otherwise, begin early before the heat of the day and head north to Bako National Park, Sarawak’s oldest and most accessible national park. Other than the Kinabatangan River, Bako is your best opportunity to see an endangered proboscis monkey in the wild. You’ll enter the park by small boat then walk the trail network to see all sorts of monkeys, bearded pigs, pythons, and other park residents. Don't worry: You don't have to trek far to see wildlife. Watch for hornbills and giant butterflies, but beware of the bold macaques that like to steal things from visitors.

If the weather on your last day is too rainy to enjoy outside adventures, go see the cluster of four interesting museums near Reservoir Park; entrance fees are $1.50 or less. The Sarawak Museum has an exhibit of human skulls taken by headhunters!

Enjoy one last, shameless seafood experience then stroll along the waterfront knowing your one week in Borneo was well spent.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. "Kinabulu Park." 2000.

The Best Time to Visit Borneo

Events and Festivals in Borneo, Malaysia

9 Top Destinations in Malaysian Borneo

Weather in Borneo: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Guide to Kalimantan: Planning Your Trip

A Guide to Airports in Borneo

The 11 Best Hotels in Borneo

Visiting an Iban Longhouse

The 7 Best Beaches in Borneo

The Top 8 Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo

5 Places to See Orangutans in Borneo

The 10 Best Places to Scuba Dive in Borneo

The 12 Best National Parks in Borneo

The 10 Best Hikes in Borneo

Kuching Is the Capital of Sarawak, Malaysia

Global Gallivanting

The ultimate backpacking malaysia itinerary & route (including borneo).

Ancient rainforests, unique wildlife, and a diverse melting pot of cultures and food. Backpacking Malaysia is an amazing adventure. As the country is split into two; Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo, it can be difficult figuring out how to fit all the best places to visit in Malaysia into one trip.

So, if you’re looking for the ultimate Malaysia itinerary, or ideas for an epic Malaysia backpacking route, then you’re in the right place! I’ve put together this blog post after several trips around this amazing, yet still underrated, country to help you out.

I’m going to share all my tips for backpacking in Malaysia, from where to go, where to stay, what to do and how to get there. I hope it will help you plan an unforgettable trip and that you’ll fall in love with this country as much as I have.

The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Malaysia

Why I Loved Backpacking in Malaysia

Malaysia is so diverse and has so much to offer. From vibrant and multicultural modern cities, to charming, historic towns, tropical islands, scenic tea plantations, the oldest rainforest in the world, and Borneo !

I love the captivating fusion of Malay, South Indian and Chinese cultures, religions and food all over Malaysia. The people are really nice, many speak English, and are always happy to help you out.

Multicultural Malaysia is one of the most underrated countries in South East Asia. It’s no way near as touristy as neighbouring Thailand , but it ought to be with the diverse amount of incredible things to see and do here.

Backpacking Malaysia is easy, fun, affordable and safe – even for solo female travelers. There are plenty of cheap backpacker hostels, amazing and cheap street food, and lots of free things to do.

Malaysia is one of the easiest countries to travel around, with a modern and efficient bus and flight system. You’ll find taxis and Ubers in some of the bigger cities, along with metros and boats.

Tips for Planning Your Malaysia itinerary

Before you start planning your trip to Malaysia, keep in mind that Malaysia is divided into two parts, Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. The two are connected with low cost flights but it’s still like visiting two different worlds.

Entering Borneo from Peninsular Malaysia is like arriving in another country, with its secluded beaches, orang-utan sanctuaries, and national parks with caves and dense jungles.

If you’re not fussy and prefer to go with the flow you could probably wing it in the popular places in Peninsula Malaysia. However, if you want to visit the National Parks in Borneo accommodation and transport can be limited so you should book in advance.

How Long Should You Backpack Malaysia

The amount of time you have to backpack Malaysia will determine the best itinerary for you. Here’s some suggestions depending on how much time you have:

If you want to see everything and follow this ultimate Malaysia backpacking route you’ll probably need about 1 month to travel the length of Peninsula Malaysia and then travel across Borneo. You could do it quicker,  if you don’t mind traveling at a faster pace.

1 month is ideal though and this will allow you spend a few days at each destination. This way you are not limited to just seeing the main sights but you can relax and really soak up each place and get off the beaten track to find some hidden gems and meet interesting people.

If you only have time to spend 2 weeks in Malaysia and don’t want to rush around too much then chose either peninsula Malaysia or Borneo Malaysia to explore and just follow half of this epic Malaysia itinerary.

Another option to see the best of both sides in only 14 days would be to just visit Kuala Lumpur and Penang and then head over to Kota Kinabalu and explore the North of Borneo.

7 – 10 Days

If you have planning a 1 week/ 7 days or 10 days Malaysia itinerary I would recommend sticking to one side and choosing three or four destinations to explore. You can take some day trips from Kuala Lumpur or domestic flights to enable you to see more in a short time too.

Or you could create your own Malaysia itinerary using the destinations and parts of my backpacker route that appeal to you the most.

Essential Info for Backpacking Malaysia

Best time to visit malaysia.

The weather differs on the west coast and east coast of Malaysia. It’s recommended to visit the west coast during the winter months of December to February, while islands on the east side are better during summer, from June to August.

The driest months in Kuala Lumpur are during summer, May to August, while in Penang it’s driest during November to January. Borneo has the best weather during the summer months, June to August. More info here.

Getting to Malaysia

Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a popular flight hub with plenty of transport connections. You can also reach Malaysia by bus, train or boat from Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand.

The huge Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and KLCC – the low cost carrier airport have cheap flights from around the world, so getting to Malaysia is really easy.

Visas for Malaysia

Many nationals from countries such as U.K., U.S.A., Australia, Canada, and New Zealand get 90 days visa free entry to Malaysia.

Getting around Malaysia

Malaysia’s transportation system is comparable to Western standards. Kuala Lumpur has a metro, and there are hundreds of flights every day around the country and some trains too.

Modern, high speed rail services connect Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Thailand on the West Coast. You can also take the Jungle Train to explore the less developed East Coast.

Luxury buses reach every part of peninsular Malaysia, and Uber operates in both peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. You can book buses and trains in Malaysia easily online using 12 Go Asia

Malaysia Backpacking Budget

From $25/day. Read More: My Malaysia backpacking budget.

Backpacker Accommodation in Malaysia

You’ll find everything from backpacker hostels and campgrounds to luxurious resorts in Malaysia. Backpacker hostels are great ways to meet other travellers and stay on a budget.

The best backpacker hostels often have a choice of dormitories and private budget rooms. There’s usually a communal area to hang out and make friends and a shared kitchen so you can save some money by cooking your own food.

Cities like Penang and Kuala Lumpur have everything from tiny guesthouses to modern hotels and upscale resorts. While more offbeat places like Borneo and the Cameron Highlands have mostly cosy guesthouses and budget hotels.

I use Hostelworld and Booking.com to find accommodation, check reviews and book at affordable prices online.

Tours of Malaysia

Day tours and trips.

City tours are popular in Malaysia; you’ll find tons of them in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, ranging from street food and history tours, to rainforest and tribal adventures. Having a local guide can bring the history to life and help you understand more about the culture.

Sometimes, public transport won’t get you everywhere so you might need to book a boat trip or jeep tour. You can book tours, trips and tickets online with Klook, a popular Southeast Asia travel site with affordable prices. Klook Passes offer good deals if you want to see multiple attractions.

You can also use Viator or GetYourGuide.  Good backpacker hostels can often help to arrange tours too.

Multi Day Small Group Tours

If you want to join a group of like minded people to travel with (and let someone else do all the organising)  then you could also join a small group multi day tour.

This is especially worthwhile if you are solo traveler and don’t want to travel alone. Taking a tour also allows you to see more in a shorter time without any stress. You can see all the Malaysia tours available and check reviews on Tour Radar .

Peninsular Malaysia is well developed, safe and easy to travel independently, but Borneo is a bit more difficult. Intrepid Travel run an amazing and affordable 10 day Real Borneo adventure tour from Kota Kinabalu specifically for young travellers and backpackers.

If you want to fun way to travel across mainland Malaysia with a young, fun group check out the 8 Day Malaysia to Singapore Highlights with Contiki.

Volunteering in Malaysia

Malaysia is an amazing country but there are still many poor communities who could really do with your help. Instead of paying 1000’s to volunteer sign up with Worldpackers and you can exchange your skills and time for free accommodation, food and many other benefits. Read more about volunteering for free with Worldpackers here. 

By volunteering when backpacking in Malaysia you can get immersed into the local culture, make friends with the locals, learn new skills all while helping those in need and saving yourself money so you can travel for longer.

I prefer Worldpackers over other platforms as they offer great support and customer service, all hosts are verified to ensure they offer a safe and rewarding experience and you can also take advantage of the Worldpacker’s insurance should anything go wrong with your host.

If you want to join, click on this link and use my discount code GLOBALGALLIVANTING to save $20 on the membership fee.

Best Guide Book: The  Lonely Planet Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Guidebook is packed with loads of essential information for pretty much every tourist destination in Malaysia.

The Ultimate 1 Month Malaysia Backpacking Route

Most Malaysia itineraries will start in the capital Kuala Lumpur (KL.) But this Malaysia backpacking route gives a more relaxing introduction to Malaysia by starting on Langkawi island in the north.

My Malaysia backpacker route includes: Langkawi – Penang – Cameron Highlands – Kuala Lumpur – Taman Negara National Park – Melaka/ Malacca – Kota Kinabalu – Sandakan – Kinabatangan – Semporna and the Sipadan islands – Mulu National Park – Kuching.

This is the best route because it fits in all the highlights and avoids traveling back on yourself. This route is ideal if you are backpacking Malaysia after Thailand. (Check out the ultimate Thailand backpacking route here )

You can literally island hop your way from Thailand to Malaysia! Just get a boat from Koh Lipe island in Thailand to Langkawi in Malaysia. It only takes about 1 hour and you can book it on 12 Go Asia here.

If you’re not coming from Thailand don’t worry, just connect to a quick domestic flight from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi’s airport. If you are coming from Singapore then simply take a bus to Malacca and start there instead and reverse the route.

Carry on reading and I’ll go through the route in more detail, letting you know what to do, where to stay and how to get to each destination.

Peninsula Malaysia

Langkawi island: 2 – 3 days.

Why not start your Malaysia backpacking trip on a beautiful tropical island!

Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands surrounded by turquoise seas, abundant nature and a dramatic mountainous jungle interior that glistens with a hundred shades of green.

Unlike some of Thailand’s islands, Langkawi has not been ruined by tourism and still has a lot of natural beauty to explore and wildlife to spot.

One of the best ways to see the archipelago is with an island hopping boat trip for a fun day out on the sea visiting the beautiful islands and beaches and seeing the eagles soar over the water.

Another thing not to miss is a Mangrove Boat Trip in Kilim Geoforest Park where you’ll be able to spot wildlife and be immersed in the unique ecosystem.

You could spend a week or more chilling out on Langkawi island, but a couple of days is enough to relax, explore the beaches, jungles, national park and main attractions.

The most popular attraction on the island is the Langkawi Sky Bridge , a suspension bridge high above the jungle. It’s reached via the Langkawi Sky Cab, the steepest cable car in the world.

You get amazing views over the jungle and ocean from the cable car and the sky bridge feels like you are walking in the clouds. There’s also a waterfall and other attractions up here. (The cable car gets busy so book your tickets in advance here to avoid the queues.)

Where to stay in Langkawi:

The best place to stay in Langkawi is Cenang Beach which has plenty of eating options and accommodation for all budgets. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Bed Attitude Hostel Cenang : A huge, sleek, modern hostel with a lively vibe and a coworking space on Cenang beach. Choose from luxurious dorms or private budget rooms. Check Prices and Book Here.
• The Cottage Langkawi: If you prefer something more low key and relaxed I loved The Cottage Langkawi. They have cute beach huts, dorms and budget rooms in tropical gardens with plenty of hammocks and lovely owners. It’s a short walk from Cenang Beach. Check Review and Book here.
• Telaga Terrace Boutique Resort: A lovely little budget friendly resort with a swimming pool in a peaceful area near Cenang beach. Check Availability and Book Here.

How to get to Langkawi:

Langkawi island is about 1 hour by speedboat from Koh Lipe in Thailand and about 2 and a half hours by ferry to Penang. Book your ferry ticket here with 12 Go Asia .

Langkawi also has an airport with flights to Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and other cities in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

Penang: 3 – 4 days

One of the best places to visit in Malaysia is Penang Island – a melting pot of Indian, Chinese, and Malaysian culture, food and tropical natural beauty that is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

The main town in Penang is UNESCO world heritage listed George Town – a compact, walkable, historic colonial trading port that boasts the best and most diverse cuisine in Malaysia.

There’s so much to do in Penang that you should spend at least 4 days here roaming the historic lanes, admiring the cool street art and eating yummy street food in George Town.

Head to the hawker centres or Chulia street night market for the best and cheapest street food. Or join the Georgetown Food Tour for a fun and tasty way to explore and learn about the city and it’s interesting fusion of cultures, food and heritage.

Wander around George Town exploring the historic houses, museums, cafes. Don’t miss Harmony Street where temples, churches and mosques can all be found on one street, and look out for the street art.

Also check out Fort Cornwallis, the Penang Botanical Gardens, and stroll down the Esplanade. The clan jetties – traditional stilt houses on the waterfront where Chinese communities still live are also interesting to see.

It’s also worth making a short trip out of the city to see the amazing Kek Lok Si temple – the biggest Buddhist temple in Malaysia.

Penang Hill is one of the top attractions on the island. Hike up or take the funicular railway – avoid the long queues by booking your ticket in advance here .

You can spend all day at Penang Hill soaking up the spectacular views of the city and exploring the nature trails. Don’t miss The Habitat – a rainforest discovery center, you can also check out the art galleries, temples, mosques and cafes.

If you want to spend more time in nature go trekking through the jungle to the unspoiled beaches of Penang National Park.  Or just chill out at Batu Ferringhi beach which has cafes, bars and tourist amenities.

If you want an adrenaline rush brave Gravityz – the world’s highest rope course. And if you want to see ‘ real Malaysia’ a great way to explore the lush tropical countryside and traditional villages around Penang is on this Penang cycling tour . You even get to try goat milk ice cream!

Where to stay in Penang:

The best place to stay in Penang is Georgetown where there are plenty of backpacker hostels and affordable boutique hotels. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Red Inn Court: Located in an old shophouse in the heart of Georgetown, this popular backpacker hostel offers female and mixed dormitories and private rooms with shared bathrooms. There’s also a shared kitchen and a sociable friendly atmosphere which makes it the best place to stay for backpackers in Penang. Book here.
• Aayu Chulia: One of the best value accommodations in all of Malaysia. They have clean and comfortable dormitories and private rooms in a great location close to all the best parts of Georgetown. There’s a shared kitchen a lounge and the owner is super helpful. Book here.
• Muntri Mews: A beautiful boutique heritage hotel in the heart of Georgetown if you want something a bit more upscale. It’s decorated with artwork from local artists. Book here.

How to get to Penang:

From Langkawi, the best way to get to Penang is by short flight or ferry. You can also get to Penang from Singapore or Thailand by land, or neighbouring islands via boat

Penang island is easily accessible from the mainland via two bridges. You can reach Penang from Kuala Lumpur via a short flight, bus or train via Butterworth Station. Sungai Nibong is the main bus station in Penang. Book your tickets online with 12 Go Asia.

Cameron Highlands: 2 – 3 days

Rolling green hills, tea plantations, and valleys make up the Cameron Highlands , where you’ll find the freshest and coolest climate in all of Malaysia.

If you enjoy beautiful nature and the humid, tropical heat is getting to you then don’t miss the Cameron Highlands from your Malaysia itinerary.

Some of the best places to visit here include the Mossy Forest, BOH Tea Garden and Factory, and Strawberry Farms. There’s limited public transport so I visited these places with this   fun Jeep Tour .

You can also pick your own fruit, enjoy fresh strawberry ice cream at the strawberry fields, taste honey at the honey farm, and see colourful butterflies at the butterfly farms. If you love flowers check out the new, and very instagramable, Cameron Flora Park.

There are also tons of treks and hiking trails in the Cameron Highlands to choose from, the most popular is trail 6- 10. In the evening there is a night market in Tanah Rata.

Where to stay in the Cameron Highlands:

The main town in the Cameron Highlands is Tanah Rata which has a range of budget guesthouses, hostels and luxurious vintage country resorts like The Cameron Highlands Resort.

Here’s my top picks for backpackers:

• Traveller Bunker Hostel: Sociable backpacker hostel in Tanah Rata with well equipped dorms, a common area and cafe. They organise free morning hikes too. Book here.
• Backyard Glamping Cameron Highlands: Stay immersed in nature at this cute campground just outside Tanah Rata. They have furnished bell tents with a shared bathroom, kitchen and lovely views. Book here.
• Highlanders Garden Guesthouse: This peaceful guesthouse is surrounded by nature yet still within easy walking distance to the center of Tanah Rata. There’s a variety of private rooms, a communal lounge and kitchen, plus friendly owners who will help you out. Book here.

How to get to the Cameron Highlands:

Multiple daily buses leave from Penang to Tanah Rata for the Cameron Highlands. The bus takes about 5 hours. Book your bus online here.

Kuala Lumpur: 3 – 4 days

No Malaysia itinerary or backpacking trip is complete without a visit to the capital Kuala Lumpur, often simply called KL.

Malaysia’s capital is a business oriented, multicultural modern city with interesting skyscrapers, mosques and temples, lively nightlife and a diverse food scene.

One of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur is simply to walk around soaking up the city’s mix of cultures. It’s quite easy to walk around the main sights. Start by exploring places like Petaling street in Chinatown, the Central Market, Merdeka Square and Little India.

You’ll see beautiful Chinese temples, mosques, Hindu temples, colonial architecture and churches, all within walking distance of each other. There’s plenty of street art to spot and street food to try too. Take the Sambal Streets – Kuala Lumpur food tour to discover where and what the locals eat.

My favorite experience in KL was visiting the Batu Caves , one of the largest Hindu temples outside of India. The cave temple is accessed by 272 rainbow coloured steps which are guarded by a huge golden statue. Also don’t miss the most impressive Chinese temple, the six tiered Thean Hou Temple. 

If you want to understand more about the different cultures and religions, take this  Batu Caves and Cultural Tour which visits the most important places of worship.

The landmark of the city is the famous Petronas Twin Towers, once the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers. You can go up to the skybridge and observation deck for amazing views.

If you want to go up the Petronas Towers or the KL Tower you can save money and skip the queues if you buy your tickets in advance here .  A Klook KL Pass could be better value if you want to see several attractions.

It’s also great to just admire the towers from KLCC park below. There is a free sound, light and water show every evening and the towers are illuminated at night. KL is also now home to the new second tallest building in the world – Merdeka 118.

For nightlife, check out the bars and clubs at Bukit Bintang, treat yourself to cocktails at one of the rooftop bars, or have dinner with 360 degree views in the revolving restaurant at the Menara / KL Tower. 

Kuala Lumpur also has many parks and museums. The KL Forest Eco Park has nature trails and canopy walks. There’s also a huge botanical gardens near the National Museum of Malaysia.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur:

The best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur for backpackers is Chinatown or Bukit Bintang. This is where you’ll find plenty of backpacker hostels and budget hotels, street food and nightlife with easy access to the rest of the city via public transport.

• China Town Hostel by Mingle : Friendly, laidback backpacker hostel in a super convenient location. It has a cafe and a cool rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi where it’s easy to meet other travellers. Choose from shared dorm rooms or affordable private rooms. Book here.
• La Vista @ Regalia Residence: Sociable hostel located in a luxury penthouse apartment with amazing views of the skyline from the rooftop infinity pool. Choose from dorms or private rooms and share the lounge, kitchen and pool. Not the most central location but the views are worth it. Book here.
• Eaton Suites KLCC: Apartments with iconic Petronas Tower views from the pool! These private fully equipped modern apartments and suites are conveniently located for KLCC and Bukit Bintang. The stunning views from the infinity swimming pool on the 52 nd floor are the highlight. Rates start at only $45 making it amazing value, but book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Book here.

See more recommendations – The 5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Kuala Lumpur.

How to get to Kuala Lumpur:

KL is 5 hours by bus from the Cameron Highlands. Click this link to book tickets. 

KL is easily accessible via flight from hundreds of international locations, as well as domestic locations over the entire country. The city has a good public transport network making it easy to get around.

There are two main international airports in Kuala Lumpur, KLIA and KLIA2. There are buses from KL sentral to and from Singapore and Thailand.

Taman Negara National Park: 2 – 3 days

Taman Negara National Park is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It’s an astonishing 130 million year old tropical rainforest , older than the Amazon!

If you’re a nature lover, this is somewhere not to miss when backpacking Malaysia – especially if you aren’t able to make it over to Borneo.

The national park boasts exotic wildlife, flora, and fauna, and some of the best opportunities for trekking in the entire country. You’ll find tigers, elephants, rare birds, and more in Taman Negara.

There’s loads to do in Taman Negara National Park. It’s home to the longest canopy walkway in the world where you can walk above the rainforest amongst the towering trees. There is also river safaris and rapids, ziplines, indigenous villages and floating restaurants.

You can also do multi-day trekking trips in Taman Negara where you sleep overnight in a tribal village or cave, or you could climb Gunung Tahan, the highest mountain in peninsular Malaysia.

The easiest way to see the highlights is to visit Taman Negara on a day tour from Kuala Lumpur. But if you have time it’s cheaper and less rushed to spend a few days here.

Where to stay in Taman Negara:

The small town of Kuala Tahan is the gateway to the national park and has some hotels and restaurants along the riverside. Accommodation is limited so book in advance.

• Tekoma Resort: Affordable resort near the riverside with an outdoor swimming pool, simple private chalets, dorm rooms and a restaurant. Book here.
• Tebing Guest House: Great family run guesthouse with a restaurant overlooking the river and comfortable private rooms. Book here.
• Mutiara Taman Negara Resort: The only accommodation within the national park offers cute jungle chalets and can arrange trekking tours and activities. Book here.

How to get to Taman Negara:

Getting to Taman Negara can be a bit of an adventure.

From Kuala Lumpur, you’ll need to take a bus to Jerantut , which takes 3 hours. Then take another 1 hour bus to Kuala Tahan.

There’s also a bus from the Cameron Highlands but it takes 6 hours.

Malacca/ Melaka: 2 – 3 days

The charming, old colonial trading port city of Melaka (also known as Malacca) shouldn’t be left off your Malaysia itinerary.

Like Penang, it has a UNESCO World Heritage old city . You can see, taste and feel the multicultural history of Malacca by exploring the historic lanes, colorful street art, mosques, temples and churches of the old town.

The best thing to do in Melaka is taking a river cruise and wandering around the historic old town. The Dutch Square is full of red colonial buildings and churches including Stadthuys and Christ Church.

Explore the ruins of A’Famosa Fort and St. Paul’s Church and check out the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum to learn more about Malacca’s unique culture and history.

You can also ride on a colorful trishaw, or go up the Menara Taming Sari for panoramic views. The Melaka Straits Floating Mosque is also worth a visit.

In the evening head to Jonker Street night market to try Nonya food and check out the cute cafes.

Where to stay in Melaka:

The best place to stay in Melaka is inside the old town where there are hostels, boutique heritage hotels and plenty of cafes and street food stalls. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Sleep Here Hostel: Good backpacker hostel with comfortable dorm beds and a basic breakfast within short walking distance from everything. Book here.
• The Rucksack Caratel: Unique, funky place with a pool near Jonker Street. Choose from ‘caravan style’ cabins and private rooms with floor to ceiling windows. Book here.
• Gingerflower Boutique Hotel: Charming, centrally located, heritage guesthouse with private rooms. Some rooms have balconies overlooking the river. Book here.

How to get to Melaka:

There are many buses that leave from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca and takes 2-3 hours. You can get tickets here.

You can do day tour to Melaka from KL, but I would recommend staying a few days and soaking up the relaxed vibes if you have time.

Malaysian Borneo

Any Ultimate Malaysia itinerary wouldn’t be complete without Borneo! Many travellers only see Peninsula Malaysia but don’t miss you chance to explore Borneo – one of the last remaining really wild places on earth.

To continue your epic backpacking Malaysia Itinerary head back to Kuala Lumpur and get a cheap Air Asia flight over to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo – check Skyscanner for the best prices.

The massive island of Borneo is shared by three countries: Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. The Malaysian section is split into two states, Sabah and Sarawak.

Borneo is a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers. Backpacking Borneo offers an off the beaten path adventure through exotic natural landscapes, ancient rainforests, incredible dive sites, and pristine beaches.

You can take a river safari to spot wildlife, visit orangutan sanctuary, trek to the island’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu, met tribal warriors and mysterious head hunters.

Venture deeper into the jungle to dive at Sipadan Island, or take a propeller airplane to Mulu National Park to trek to bat caves and waterfalls.

The best place to start your Borneo backpacking adventure is in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah or north Borneo.

Kota Kinabalu: 2 – 5 days

Kota Kinabalu (also refereed to as simply KK) is the capital of Sabah state. It’s a great city to fly into and start the Borneo part of your Malaysia itinerary as you’re near most of the best places to visit in Borneo.

There’s plenty to do in Kota Kinabalu , stroll the waterfront, see the impressive waterfront mosque, visit bustling markets and beaches. To learn about Borneo’s indigenous culture visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village to meet tribal people and see a traditional longhouse.

Just off the coast, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park consists of 5 paradise islands with amazing underwater life only 15 mins boat ride away from the city. They make easy day trips or you can stay on Gaya Island for a tropical island escape.

This snorkelling trip takes you by boat to three amazing spots and includes lunch on the beach on one of the islands. If you’re lucky you may even see whale sharks.

If you don’t have time to go further into Borneo, it’s even possible to do a river cruise day trip from KK to spot wildlife and fireflies in the Klias Wetlands.

In the evening stroll along the waterfront, choose your dinner from the seafood markets who will grill it for you, and then check out the bars and nightlife.

About 2 hours drive from Kota Kinabalu is the starting point for the famous trek to Borneo’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu. A steep 2 day climb where you watch the sunrise above rolling clouds. You need to register before climbing and take a guide.

This G Adventures small group 5 day Trek Mount Kinabalu Tour . Just bring your hiking shoes and arrive in Kota Kinabalu and they will sort everything else out. It’s quite a tough trek so it’s better to have the support and camaraderie of a like minded group.

Where to Stay in Kota Kinabalu:

The best place to stay in Kota Kinabalu is along the waterfront or near Gaya Street. Here’s my top 3 picks:

• Homy Seafront Hostel : Cosy, centrally located waterfront hostel with friendly, helpful staff. Offers dorms and private rooms – some with sea views. Book here.
• TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu: Large colorful, modern backpacker hostel on the outskirts of the city. Choose from dorms or delux private rooms and enjoy the social vibe, rooftop bar, hang out areas and games. There’s even an indoor slide! Book here.
• Horizon Hotel : Good value centrally located hotel with a pool and multiple dinning options. The more expensive rooms even have sea views. Book here.

How to get to Kota Kinabalu:

Air Asia and Malaysian Airlines operate daily domestic and international flights from KL to Kota Kinabalu, you can also fly from places like Brunei, Jakarta, and Taipei.

There are many buses leaving from Kota Kinabalu to various destinations around the island, as well as a port to take boats to neighbouring islands as well as Brunei.

Sandakan: 2 – 3 days

Sandakan is the former capital of Sabah and makes a great base for exploring some of Borneo’s best wildlife sanctuaries.

Just outside the city is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre . This renowned sanctuary is a haven for orphaned and injured orangutans. You can see these amazing animals up close during feeding time and support their conversation.

Next to the orangutan sanctuary is the Sun Bear Conservation Centre and the Rainforest Discovery Centre . The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is also in the area. This Sandakan Tour visits all three wildlife sanctuaries and includes a city tour and lunch.

Sandakan is also the jumping off point for Selingan island, better known as Turtle Island , a conservation project for endangered green and hawksbill turtles.

Stay at Turtle Island Resort and witness turtles laying eggs on the beach at night and help to release the hatchlings into the ocean to help their survival odds.

Where to stay in Sandakan

There’s no hostels in Sandakan, there are some nice jungle resorts and some budget hotels along the waterfront of Sandakan City. Here’s the 3 best options:

• AeCOTEL: Decent budget hotel with comfortable rooms and helpful staff.
• The Elopura Hotel : Popular mid range hotel on the harbour in the heart of Sandakan City with music and movie memorabilia and a great restaurant with sea views.
• The Sabah Hotel : Great resort with landscaped pools, bars and eateries, surrounded by rainforest just above Sandakan City.

How to get to Sandakan

Sandakan is about 7 hours bus ride from KK It’s also possible to fly between the two in less than 1 hour. See the options and book on 12 GO Asia. 

Kinabatangan: 2 – 3 days

One of the best ways to spot wildlife in Borneo is on a river cruise through the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary , about a 2 hour drive from Sandakan.

This is one of the highlights of Borneo, so stay a few days in a riverside rainforest eco resort and do a couple of river safaris in the early morning and sunset time.

This gives you a good chance of seeing Borneo’s Big 5:– The great hornbill, proboscis monkey, orangutang, crocodile and pygmy elephant. You can also do a guided night walk to see all the nocturnal creatures.

How to do it

Most people take a 3 day 2 night Kinabatangan package which includes transfers from Sandakan, accommodation in a rainforest eco resort, meals and river safaris.

Book in advance because places are limited and this is the highlight of most travellers Borneo experience.

Some other accommodation options include:

• Sukau Backpackers B&B : Good budget choice on the river with basic air-conditioned rooms. Meals and boat rides can be arranged.
• Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge : Good value jungle lodge. AC rooms have big windows with nature views.
• Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort: Lovely river eco resort on stilts in the jungle with an open-air riverside restaurant. They offer packages for both dorms and wooden cottages.

I didn’t find any public transport into the wildlife sanctuary. You might be able to get a taxi, but better to ask your accommodation to provide transfers – most do as part of a package.

Semporna and The Sipadan Islands: 2 – 3 days

Semporna, on the eastern coast of Sabah, is the gateway to some of the most beautiful islands and diving sites in the world.

Nicknamed the Maldives of Malaysia, you can go island hopping and snorkelling in the Tan Sakaran Marine Park and see  visiting islands like Timba-Timba, Pom Pom and Mataking Island

Sipadan island is one of the best scuba diving sites in the world where you’ll see turtles, sharks and huge schools of fish . There are limited dive permits issued each day which are issued by dive resorts and tour operators so book in advance.

You need to have an Advanced Open Water certification to dive at Sipadan, but you can try scuba diving without any previous experience at other dive sites in the area.

Check out this guide to diving Sipadan on a budget for more info.

Where to stay in Semporna and the Sipadan Islands:

Semporna town is the cheapest place to stay but for an island escape you can stay in an overwater bungalow or resort on the islands.

For conservation reasons, you’re no longer allowed to stay on Sipadan island, but there are a couple of options on the nearby Mabul island or Kapalai islands.

Here’s my top picks:

• Island Backpackers : Friendly, clean, hostel with dorms and privates centrally located in Semporna.
• Mushroom Inn : Stay in your own toad stall room in a cute mushroom village!
• Dragon Inn Floating Resort : Basic hotel and restaurant on stilts over the water by Semporna jetty.
• Maglami-lami Water House : Top rated reasonably priced over water resort on Bum Bum island
• Sipadan Kapalai Resort: Best dive resort in the area located on Kapalai island.
• Mabul Backpackers: Basic, budget dive resort built on stilts over the water on Mabul island.

How to get to Semporna:

From Sandakan the bus to Semporna takes about 6 hours. Boats to the islands leave from Semporna jetty.

To return to Kota Kinabulu, the quickest way is by a short flight from either Tawau or Lahad Datu.

In KK either change to a plane back to KL or head deeper into the jungle to Mulu National Park – only accessible by flight.

Mulu National Park: 3 or 4 days

Home to Gunung Mulu National Park , Mulu offers spectacular outdoor adventures. From trekking through jungle to climbing through caves, this national park is one of the most unique in the country.

The National Park is home to the biggest underground cave chamber in the world, Sarawak Chamber, as well as Mulu caves and the Deer Cave, the entrance to the largest cave passage in the world.

You can also trek to the Pinnacles at Gunung Api or summit Gunung Mulu Mountain , both multi day treks.

Where to stay near Mulu National Park:

There is a small village around the airport with a handful of homestays. Accommodation is limited and it’s a very remote area so book well in advance.

• Mulu Village : Friendly homestay just outside the national park with incredible hosts.
• The Benarat Lodge: Jungle lodge with air conditioned rooms, a restaurant and refreshing swimming pool.
• Mulu Mariott Resort: The only upscale option. It’s located along the riverside with a beautiful restaurant in the middle of the jungle.

How to get to Mulu National Park:

Getting to Mulu is quite the adventure as it’s not accessible by road. You’ll have to take a small propeller airplane for the 1 hour flight from Kota Kinabalu or Kuching. Check current flight times and prices here.

Kuching: 2 – 3 days

The capital of the state of Sarawak, Kuching is a diverse city located along the beautiful Sarawak River. that’s a mix of colonial and modern architecture. You’ll find massive buildings as well as tiny old houses in this city, which is located along the beautiful Sarawak River.

You can take a two-day trip to Bako National Park for trekking and wildlife, or visit Fort Margherita, The Astana, or even the Kuching Cat Museum.

You should also take a trip to the incredible orang-utan sanctuary, Semenggoh Nature Reserve , where you will get to watch these massive creatures climb the trees and eat.

Where to stay in Kuching:

• Treehouse Hostel: Homely BnB style hostel in a good location near the waterfront. Budget rooms have shared bathrooms and there’s also a kitchen and small terrace.
• Kuching Waterfront Lodge: Good value heritage hotel in an atmospheric old Chinese building on the Sarawak River. Great location close to night markets and everything in Kuching.
• The Borneo Hotel: Modern, mid range hotel if you’re craving mod cons and comfort after your jungle explorations.

How to get there:

Kuching is home to one of Borneo’s busiest airports. You can fly to Kuching from Mulu, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur and many other destinations.

There are also buses from Kuching that operate around various places in Sarawak.

If you’re Malaysia and Borneo trip ends here then take a flight back to Kuala Lumpur to catch your onward flight home.

Read More: My Ultimate Thailand Itinerary and Backpacking Route.

Final Thoughts on Backpacking Malaysia and Borneo

Wow, that was a long blog! But there’s just so much to see and do in Malaysia. Make sure your itinerary or backpacking route contains a bit of everything this amazing country has to offer.

Visit the buzzing, multi-cultural cities, taste the diverse food, wander historic old trading ports, relax on tropical islands, explore ancient rainforests and spot wildlife – backpacking through Malaysia is sure to be an amazing adventure!

I hope this blog has helped you plan your Malaysia backpacking trip – if you have any questions leave a comment below.

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Perfect this is exactly what I was looking for!

Awesome! Glad it helped 🙂

Nice blog.Thanks for sharing

There is just so much to see in South East Asia! I love travelling this part of the world, and hope to see as much of it and as many countries as possible.

Hello! Finally planning a trip for May 2022 and this has been so so helpful, thank you x

really a amazing post about malaysia thanks for sharing

Hi, Thank you for sharing with us your amazing experiences in Malaysia. I can’t wait to explore these amazing destinations and experience all that Malaysia has to offer.

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Classic One Week Malaysia Itinerary

This is a suggested one week travel itinerary for Malaysia that covers Kuala Lumpur, Melaka & Penang.

Why Travel To Malaysia

• Modern city architecture
• Interesting colonial history and architecture
• Stunning beaches
• Incredible wildlife
• Diverse culture
• Delicious and diverse cuisine
• Friendly locals
• Budget friendly destination
• Well-developed infrastructure

Malaysia Itinerary Map

Malaysia travel itinerary.

• Day 1: Arrive in Kuala Lumpur (KL)
• Day 2: Explore  KL
• Day 3: Explore  KL
• Day 4: Travel To Melaka, Explore Melaka

Day 5: Travel to Penang

Day 6: explore penang, day 7: explore penang.

• Day 8: Depart

If you have more time then also visit Langkawi to enjoy the beaches or visit Cameron Highlands to enjoy little cooler temperatures.

Best Time To Visit Malaysia

The best time to visit the west coast of Malaysia is between the dry season months of December and February .

Malaysia Top Experiences

• Spectacular KL Bird Park
• Magnificent Batu Caves
• Charming and historic city of Melaka
• Massive Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple in Penang
• Diverse and delicious Malaysian cuisine

Day 1: Arrive In Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur ( colloquially referred to as KL) is the capital city of Malaysia and is the largest city in Malaysia. If you're feeling energized after your arrival in KL, then take a leisurely stroll and discover the vibrant heart of KL city center. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the numerous eateries located in the heart of the city.

Best location to book your stay in Kuala Lumpur is the  Kuala Lumpur  City Center (also known as KLCC ) .

Day 2: explore kuala lumpur.

• Awaken in KL feeling rejuvenated after a peaceful night's sleep, and savor a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel. Kickstart your day with a captivating guided walking tour around Merdeka Square , immersing yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders that make this city truly unique. 
• After lunch visit KL Forest Eco Park which is one of the oldest permanent forest reserves in Malaysia. Make sure to experience the breathtaking 200 m canopy walk, offering you unparalleled aerial vistas.
• Next visit Chan See Shu Yuen Temple which is one of the largest and oldest surviving Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Then visit The Sri Mahamariamman Temple which is the oldest Hindu temple in KL. 
• In the evening visit KL Tower (aka Menara KL), which is communications tower that stands 421 m tall. From it's observation deck enjoy some spectacular views of the city. Later i n the evening enjoy authentic Malaysian cuisine for dinner.

Day 3: Explore Kuala Lumpur

• Begin your day exploring the lovely  KL Bird Park ,   and immerse yourself in the beauty of over 200 bird species residing within an enclosed aviary.  Next visit nearby  Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia , which is the largest museum of Islamic arts in South East Asia. 
• In the afternoon visit the magnificent  Batu Caves,  which is an awe-inspiring limestone hill adorned with a mesmerizing collection of caves and cave temples . T his extraordinary site stands as one of the most renowned Hindu shrines beyond the borders of India.
• Next go to the famous  Central Market  for some shopping.  Experience the perfect ending to your day by indulging in a delightful dinner along the renowned food street, Jalan Alor .

Day 4: Travel to Melaka, Explore Melaka

• Take early morning transport to the historic city of Melaka , which is about two hours journey via bus from KL and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Melaka is a charming city which has interesting trading history and multicultural heritage.
• After settling into your hotel visit  The Baba Nyonya House Museum which showcases the local history of ethnic Chinese-Malays called Baba-Nyonya in Melaka. 
• Next visit Villa Sentosa which is traditional Malay house. It is now a living-history private museum depicting life in a wealthy early-20th-century home.  
• Don't miss the sunset at the lovely  Melaka Straits Mosque located on the man-made Melaka Island. End your day with dinner at one of the nice restaurants on the Jonker Street . If your visit falls over the weekend then don't miss the night market on Jonker Street.

If you've sometime in morning before your transport to Penang, then explore more of Melaka. Take transport to Penang. You may have to travel back to KL, for your transport to Penang. 

George Town which is the capital city of the Malaysian state of Penang is the best place to stay to explore Penang. Settle down in your hotel. If you're not too tired after you arrive, then walk around and explore George Town. In evening enjoy nice dinner at city's one of many restaurants or enjoy delicious street foods.  George Town is renowned for its diverse street food.

• Begin your day with a delightful visit to Pinang Peranakan Mansion , a captivating museum that pays homage to Penang's rich Peranakan culture. This magnificent mansion was once the home and workplace of a prominent Chinese tycoon from the 19th century. Immerse yourself in the vibrant display of Peranakan artifacts, exquisite antiques, and fascinating collectibles that adorn the mansion. Marvel at the intricate Peranakan interior design and get a glimpse into the customs and traditions of this unique heritage.
• Next visit Khoo Kongsi which is a large Chinese clan-house with elaborate and highly ornamented architecture.
• After lunch visit The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion , a remarkable architectural gem constructed by the esteemed merchant Cheong Fatt Tze in the late 1800s. This charming building stands out with its unique indigo-blue exterior walls and intricate external decorations, earning it the nickname "The Blue Mansion." Inside, you'll discover a grand total of 38 rooms, adorned with 220 vernacular timber louvre windows, 5 granite-paved courtyards and 7 elegant staircases. It served as Cheong's private residence as well as the seat of his business activities in Penang.
• In late afternoon visit  Fort Cornwallis which is the largest standing fort in Malaysia. It was built by the British East India Company in the late 18th century. End your day again enjoying Penang's diverse and delicious cuisine.
• Begin your day with a visit to Kek Lok Si Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and a significant site for Buddhist pilgrims. The standout attraction of this temple complex is the impressive seven-story Ten Thousand Buddhas Pagoda.
• After lunch visit Penang Hill via the funicular to enjoy some spectacular views of the city. This being your last day in Malaysia, spend your evening doing some shopping in Penang.

Day 8: Depart from Penang

Depart from Penang to your destination.

What to Shop In Malaysia

Malaysia is known for Pewter (metal alloy) products , hand-woven fabric like Batik (silk), paintings , Durian chips/candy/etc., and  Dodol  (Malaysian toffee).

Please do let me know in the comments section below if you like this itinerary or if you've any questions/suggestions about the itinerary.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Malaysia Travel Guide (BUDGET TIPS • 2024)

So, you’re considering Backpacking Malaysia, well, you’re in for a bloody treat mate!

It was 2016 and I had been travelling through Southeast Asia for roughly 6 months, with the stalwarts of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos under my belt, it was time for the next adventure: Backpacking Malaysia. Little did I know at the time, but I was about to journey into one of my favourite countries and somewhere I would return to time and time again. 

My love affair with Malaysia started of course, in bustling KL. It took me to the bright colours of colonial Penang, the stunning shores of Langkawi, the rolling hillsides of the Cameron highlands, the magical jungles of Borneo and beyond. 

Malaysia felt like it offered everything a traveller could want all in one neat package of reliable transport, English as a second language, easy visa entry and super friendly locals. Yet those conveniences didn’t leave it feeling sterile or “too easy”. 

Instead, it left me with more energy, mental space and time to fully immerse in the delights that Malaysia laid out before me: Culture, landscape, nature, cuisine and diversity. It’s got it all! 

And now, amigos, I am proud to unveil the broke backpacker guide to backpacking Malaysia on a budget…

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Go Backpacking in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a country full of variation and surprises, and after a couple of weeks travelling around the numerous regions and areas of Malaysia , it truly left me wanting more. You can explore beautiful beaches, jungle, eat amazing street food, and, of course, check out some beautiful temples (this is Asia after all).

Whether you want to get off the beaten path in Malaysian Borneo , view orangutans and trek through remote jungles, or you just want to chill on a beach all day, there is a destination in Malaysia for you.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Malaysia

Places to visit in malaysia, top things to do in malaysia, backpacker accommodation in malaysia, malaysia backpacking costs, best time to travel to malaysia, staying safe in malaysia, how to get into malaysia, how to get around malaysia, working in malaysia, what to eat in malaysia, malaysian culture, some unique experiences in malaysia, final advice before visiting malaysia.

Below are a few of my favourite spots that I recommend checking out on your own adventure backpacking across Malaysia.

Backpacking Malaysia 2-Week Itinerary: Malaysia’s Highlights

This itinerary is perfect if you have 2-3 weeks to backpack Malaysia. With three weeks you could take your time, and spend more time on the islands.

Start your trip staying in Kuala Lumpur , also known as KL. Take a side trip to visit the Batu Caves , full of Hindu shrines. Climbers, you can hang out here for a couple days since there are over 160 rock climbing routes!

Next, we head to the Cameron Highlands, a “highlight” of your trip. These hill stations grow tea, coffee, and fresh fruit. Make sure to go on a local tour. One of the world’s oldest rainforests, Taman Negara , isn’t far. Adventurers can go on jungle treks lasting a week or more.

Afterwards, head to Penang and get lost in the beautiful colonial streets, venture through vibrant Little India and follow the street art around the city. Afterwards, find a chill  place to stay in Langkawi for some quality beach time.

If you have an extra week, head to the  Perhentian islands  on the other side of Malaysia for some epic diving!

• Best Places to Visit in Penang
• Penang Travel Itinerary
• Best Places to Visit in Langkawi
• Langkawi Travel Itinerary

Backpacking Malaysia 3-Week Itinerary: Jungles and Malaysia National Parks

I haven’t been to this part of Malaysia, but I created this itinerary for your inspiration. This is the perfect itinerary for outdoor lovers and adventurers who want to get far off the beaten path in Malaysia’s most undeveloped region: Borneo, an island Malaysia that shares borders with Indonesia, and one of the last places on earth you can see endangered orangutans.

Start by staying in Kuching , Sarawak’s small capital, as a base. Don’t miss the  Semenggoh orang-utan sanctuary to see endangered orangutans. This is a rewarding day-trip. Next head to Bako , Sarawak’s oldest national park. Here you will come across monkeys, fauna, and waterfalls!

Afterward, take a boat through the rivers and forests of Batang Ai. Gunung Mulu National Park offers wonderful jungle scenery and a three-day trek through a network of limestone karsts and caverns.

Next head to Miri and Niah National Park. If you like to hike, get to Bario for some multi-trekking through remote longhouses and up mountains. End your trip staying in Kota Kinabalu , Sabah’s capital. Visit the district with traditional over-water houses and spend your evenings at the markets.

If you have the time (and money), you can summit Malaysia’s toughest climb, Mount Kinabalu . Last I heard a permit was over $100 and you have to hire a guide.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Malaysia is a fantastically varied country with so much to explore! Here are my top picks of the coolest places to visit on a backpacking trip to Malaysia.

Backpacking Kuala Lumpur

This is the capital of Malaysia and arguably the most westernised place you’ll visit while in Malaysia. This is often where most backpackers in Malaysia will start, as it is the main hub for international flights. I only spent a short time in Kuala Lumpur, as it was a lot more expensive than the other areas I visited but I was the great food, vibrant and varied culture(s) and the surprisingly decent hiking trails through urban jungle.

The Batu Caves are a short and cheap KTM metro ride from central Kuala Lumpur. The incredible Tamil temple and shrine attracts both worshippers and visitors alike. It isn’t one for the unfit; to get inside the temple you have a great stair workout ahead of you and the humidity will make sure even the fittest person ends with beautiful sweat stains.

At the top, explore the inside of the cave and meet the locals… monkeys! In 2016, major renovation work was done inside the cave, but now things are quiet again with everything looking in tip-top shape.

On the way down from the Batu Caves stop at the Bat Cave and take the 45-minute tour inside, wandering into complete darkness, to meet the animals that live down here. You may see spiders, bats, snakes, scorpions, and plenty of cave-dwelling bugs. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and it’s an experience that a lot of travellers miss on the way down!

If you haven’t spent all your money before you leave KUL, head up the KUL tower . It’s around $25 for both decks. Here you will get a pretty awesome view of the city, even better in the evening! Make sure you take a good cheesy picture with the Petronas Towers!

Backpacking Kedah

When entering Malaysia from Thailand, you will most likely pass through the beautiful state of Kedah. While most travellers will just pass through, Kedah has plenty to offer and it’s worth stopping to explore. Explore some of the first European Colonial Streets and experience the beauty of Gunung Jerai (Mount Jerai) .

The ancient Malays proclaimed Gunung Jerai sacred and some stunning temples were built throughout the mountain; many of them are still standing today. If you want to know more, the cheeky Malays have placed a great information board at the top of the mountain – all you have to do is climb 1175 meters to reach it!

Backpacking Langkawi

Both a popular spot for visa-runs for Thailand and a great place to chill out for a few days, the peaceful island of Langkawi sits upon an ancient limestone shelf and is home to one of Southeast Asia’s largest eagle populations. This is a great place to head off on an adventure and if you head away from the party beaches you will find some great treks, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Cenang Beach is where most of the action is. There’s plenty of jet skiing and other watersports, but the beach itself is not that great and is usually pretty crowded. To see the real Langkawi hire a motorbike and take to the open road for a day of exploring.

Whilst in Langkawi, I took to the trees with Skytrex Adventure for an action-packed afternoon of high ropes (don’t look down!) and zip-lining through the Forest Canopy. I’ve done a few high ropes and zip-lining courses around the world and this was one of the more challenging ones. It’s definitely worth a go if you want to kick-start your day.

There are a lot of great accommodation options in Langkawi. There are some awesome homestays in Langkawi as well as everything from chilled backpacker dorms and quiet Airbnbs to super posh resorts if you plan on splashing out.

However, if you want to stay somewhere really decent that is also affordable, I recommend the Yacht Club Hotel . This hotel has a cool bar offering a great view over the attached Marina where you can boat-watch as people bring their yachts (lucky bastards) in for the night. This hotel also has some of the best WiFi I found on Langkawi so if you need to work, it’s a good place to stay. Otherwise, I’d recommend checking out this breakdown on the best places to stay in Langkawi from my mate Bren.

Backpacking Penang

Being one of the first major areas in Malaysia occupied by the Europeans as well as an ex-trading hub for ships around the world, Penang’s beautiful neighbourhoods keeps much of its colonial heritage intact. It’s an incredible place to chill for a couple of days.

‘Old Penang’ is one of the best places to go for a stroll and is filled with UNESCO sites. It’s a bit like stepping back in time…

Hire a bike for cheap – only around $5 for the day – and explore George Town and its legendary street art. Get lost in the beautiful colonial streets, venture through vibrant Little India, and follow the street art around the city. There are so many things to do in Penang;  it’s a beautiful city!

You can’t go to Penang and not visit Kek Lok Si Temple or ‘Temple of Ultimate Happiness’. This Buddhist temple faces the sea and overlooks the ever-growing city of new and old Penang. You can hire a guide at the car park relatively cheap, which I highly recommend. The guide will immerse you in the incredibly beautiful and sometimes, gory history behind each of the 10,000 carved symbols.

If this doesn’t convince you, this temple also has one of the biggest statues you will ever see – standing at 99ft (seven stories) Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy is pretty awe-inspiring. Get to this temple around Chinese New Year. Why? Well for 30 days the temple is decorated with thousands of lanterns. This sight is so beautiful that it will give you goosebumps.

Ever wondered what a Burmese Temple looked like?

Dharmikarma Temple is a favourite of mine due to its quirkiness! Explore the gardens of the temple and you will come across a Giant Globe. It is said if you focus on your hearts desires, close your eyes, and point, you will be directed to where you need to go – while also taking a cheesy picture of yourself.

You’ll also find a wishing well of fortune? Throw a coin and land it in one of the moving, engraved cups; each with a different future trait – I got Bon Voyage; I think it was pretty accurate.

Backpacking Cameron Highlands

A relatively new backpacker area, the Cameron Highlands are breathtakingly beautiful and should not be missed when travelling in Malaysia. Moving away from the cities and hitting the dirt roads, you will see some truly gorgeous mountainous scenery, cascading tea plantations, and mysterious cloud forest, making it one of the best places to stay in Malaysia.

When you’re staying in Cameron Highlands , I really recommend hiring a car (or a man with a van) and navigate the dirt track roads leading you into the incredible tea plantations. Learn about the tea-making process – which is actually a lot more interesting than I first thought it would be – sample the leaves, take a walk through the plantations, and even befriend the pickers who will laugh at your attempt at picking the correct leaves at a quick pace… It’s harder than it looks!

I hired a local guide and we went into the cloud forest in search for the rare and beautiful Rafflesia (one of the world’s largest flowers). It kind of looks like a giant upside down mushroom, but more red, and, according to my guide depending on the time of year, it smells like a dead elephant – thankfully it did not when we found it.

Hacking my way through the cloud forest was incredible. The trails are not well trodden, the views are incredible (when the trees break) and the knowledge the locals have on the plants and conservation in the area is extraordinary. If you’re after a real adventure whilst backpacking Malaysia, this is it.

Backpacking Melaka

A three-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur, this beautiful small town has an incredibly strange obsession with Hello Kitty, and the city itself resembles a small town in Europe. Once the ‘must-see’ place in Malaysia before Kuala Lumpur developed, it is now a much sleepier backpacker city with mass tourism having moved to the other ever-growing cities within Malaysia. Melaka is a cheap place to hang out, making it a perfect rest stop for broke backpackers travelling in Malaysia.

UNESCO protected, Melaka is filled with an incredible history and many of the old colonial buildings are still in great condition. Melaka is easy to navigate by bicycle or foot. Wander the streets and enjoy the bright colours, colonial buildings, and reflective water canals.

Head down Jonker Street where the city’s heritage meets some crazy museums, awesome market shopping, and some epic Malaysian food . It’s a little quirky and a great place to find things you will never need but want anyway. Melaka is definitely a stop you shouldn’t miss when backpacking Malaysia.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Malaysia

Borneo is without a doubt the way to go. Borneo is Asia’s biggest island and a rather intriguing oddity of Malaysia’s backpacking trail.

More than half of Borneo is Indonesian territory with the remaining being Malaysia EXCEPT for two small sections which comprise the country of Brunei. Brunei is also very off the Southeast Asia backpacking trail , however, that’s for good reason: we don’t speak of Brunei.

Borneo is a nature lover’s paradise. You can head to Kuching as a base – or stay in Kota Kinabalu in Sabah – however, once you head outside of these semi-touristed areas, you’re just looking at pure jungle wilderness.

Borneo is world-famous for its population of endangered orangutans, however, there’s heaps more to the island too! All manner of rare and exotic wildlife can be seen on Borneo, and there’s heaps of world-class diving and trekking too.

The culture of Borneo is very different from mainland Malaysia with a whole host of different ethnic groups and intricacies. You’re heading pretty far out into the sticks, so exploring takes effort and time, but isn’t that the whole point of getting off the beaten path?

If you feel extra explorer lazy, though, you could take a tour with Global Work and Travel . They at least let broke backpackers pay in instalments which is really quite nice of them!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Jungles, temples, caves, ruins, bustling metropolises, backpacker bubbles, and a whole host of exquisite beaches dotted around Malaysia … There’s so much stuff to do in Malaysia, but here are my personal picks!

1. Climb around the Batu Caves

Head outside of Kuala Lumpur to explore these limestone cliffs and caves, which represent Hindu shrines and a site for pilgimage. Climbers rejoice! There are over 160 routes in the area.

2. Hit the Beach in Langkawi

Langkawi is among the best islands in Malaysia . It’s an inhabited island in an archipelago of over a hundred islands in the Andaman Sea. Langkawi Island is popular with both backpackers and honeymooners and has something to suit all budgets.

3. Visit Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

This park is a collection of five islands found off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. This is a popular place to hike, trek, swim, and dive, especially in March which is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu .

4. Eat the Street Food

Try the authentic food, which in my opinion is not as spicy as Thai food and is, in fact, more flavorful. You will get a HUGE portion for such a tiny price – Malaysia seriously has some of the best street food in the world !

5. Get your Culture on in Malacca

Malacca or Melaka has interesting architecture and a high concentration of museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore.

6. Island Hop the Perhentian is

Blissful and balmy tropical islands? Malaysia has those too! Come here for fresh seafood and scuba diving. The islands can be visited by ferry and water taxis operate between the various islands giving visitors the chance to island-hop at their leisure.

7. Haggle for Souvenirs

This is super common in Malaysia and also great fun. The only way to get a good deal is to bargain. Make sure you read up on how to haggle before you go so you’re ready to negotiate like a pro!

8. Hang Out With Endangered Orangutans

Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre is one of the biggest and most well-known orangutan sanctuaries in Malaysia. The sanctuary is located nearby Sandakan.

9. Explore Gunung Mulu National Park

Located in East Malaysia, this park is known for its caves and karst formations. There are ample hiking opportunities around the caves and rainforest!

10. Hang Out in the Cameron Highlands

These hill stations provide visitors with cool water and fun tea and coffee plantation tours! You can also fruit pick at one of the many fruit farms.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Hostels are only just beginning to pop up throughout Malaysia. During my time there, I chose to stay at guesthouses rather than the hostels, as they were cheaper! These days, however, there’s an increasing number of hostels and eco-friendly accommodation in Malaysia .

Throughout Malaysia, guesthouses, hotels, Airbnb, or being hosted with CouchSurfing will be your main options for accommodation. Guesthouses are fantastically priced for us broke backpackers and you can score a bed for as little as $5-$15 a night!

If you are backpacking Malaysia in peak season use Airbnb as an alternative. Often just as cheap, the added bonus is you may get a whole apartment! If not, you’ll at least make some awesome local friends. 

Or pack your camping hammock instead and sleep for free! Some hostels will charge you for amenities and some restaurants won’t even charge you a dime.

Unmarried couples generally won’t have a problem travelling and staying together when in Malaysia. You may have to request a double bed in some places (if necessary) but otherwise, you will be met with friendliness and the beautiful hospitality that Malaysian people are famous for.

The Best Places to Stay in Malaysia

You can backpack Malaysia for as little as $15 a day.  Sometimes it’ll be more if you want a fancy cocktail rather than a beer for a change.

However, with a few basic travel tips for Malaysia , you’re budget will be easy to keep in check. Stick to cheap guesthouses, good street food, and buses rather than flights and trains and you shouldn’t spend more than forty dollars a day.

A Daily Budget in Malaysia

Money in malaysia.

DO NOT buy Malaysian Ringgit before travelling to Malaysia. Why? You will get a crappy exchange rate. Money is easily exchanged upon arrival in Malaysia, and you’ll get a much better exchange rate in the country.

Find out how much your money is worth today by using the up-to-date converter below.

Malaysia accepts the majority of international cards so long as they are Visa or MasterCard, but many of these charge pretty insane withdrawal fees. It’s advisable to avoid small ATM transactions and get out a bunch of cash at once – just make sure you hide it well (pack a travel money belt for this).

When travelling to rural areas, cash is always best because ATMs will become scarce fast. If arriving by land, exchange only what you absolutely need before entering Malaysia. Some drivers will accept US dollars as payment if you have nothing else, but don’t count on it.

Once you head into the rural areas don’t expect ATMs anywhere. Carry cash with you, just enough for what you will be doing and a hidden backup stash in case of delays.

Travel Tips – Malaysia on a Budget

Sometimes things are country specific, sometimes they’re just the golden rules of budget backpacking . Either way, if you’re backpacking Malaysia on a shoestring budget, here are some tips to stretch your money further.

• Eat the Street Food: Put your stomach to the test! Nah, just kidding. The street food in Malaysia is awesome and I didn’t encounter any stomach or bathroom problems while here. The trick, as with anywhere serving street food, is to go for the one that already has a queue. No one queues for bad food. This will be the cheapest way to eat, but if you’re not convinced, then head to the food courts (which are basically the same thing).
• Haggle: It is commonplace while market shopping to haggle for your goods. Even if you think it is cheap for you without haggling, you are not getting the local price or a good deal. It’s heaps of fun as well, so get your game face on and snag some random goodies!
• Guesthouses: Cheaper than most hostels and way cheaper than hotels, this is the best way to save money while travelling through Malaysia. They’re often family-run too, so you will meet some awesome locals. If you want to book something online, Hostelworld offers some of the best deals in Asia.
• Couchsurfing: A fantastic way to travel without spending money ! You’ll make local friends and see a whole other side to the tourist part of town. Just be sure to cook your host a meal to say thank you for putting you up!
• Hitchhike: Hitchhiking is a great way to meet the locals, and it may even score you a free bed for the night as well – two for one is always good right? If you’re not comfortable hitchhiking, take the bus: it’s super cheap and relatively comfortable.

Why You Should Travel to Malaysia with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Malaysian seasons range from wet, comfortable, hot and humid. The West and East Coast can experience completely different weather from one another so it really depends on where you want to go in Malaysia.

Overall, the west coast is best between October to March , and the East coast is best from March to October .

The east coast gets quite a bit more rain than the west, and if travelling to Malaysia in the wet season, you may find a lot of stores, hotels and guesthouses closed. I travelled around Malaysia from December to the end of January and the weather was spot on.

Festivals in Malaysia

Given the massive cultural and ethnic spread in Malaysia, there’s a huge range of festivals to go wild at too. Religious shebangers, cultural shindigs, and musical shemozzles – it’s a blast.

• Thaipusam (January/February) – If you’ve ever wanted to watch men stick spikes through their cheeks and shake what their mumma gave them, this is your chance! One of the most important festivals for Tamil people, things really kick off in Kuala Lumpur and the Batu Caves around this time of year.
• Malaysia Water Festival (April) – The concept is pretty similar to the Thailand Water Festival: everyone gets out in the streets with super soakers and water balloons. There are other activities too, but really, this one’s all about H2- whOa .
• Gawai Harvest Festival (June) – If you’re looking for something a little more esoteric, than get yourself Sarawak (in Borneo) at the start of June. It’s a harvest festval – similar to Pagan festivals in concept – hugely important to a number of indigenous peoples of the Sarawak area. Expect to be fed… a lot.
• Rainforest World Music Festival (July) – Also held in Sarawak, this world-famous international music festival sees a lot of ecclectic artists grace its stage. You get quite a variety of music, however, traditional music, world fusion, and other contemporary international styles tend to be the main affair.

What to Pack for Malaysia

Malaysia has to be one of my favourite places in Asia for shopping and you will find that most people – especially in the busier areas – take a lot of pride in what they wear. The more modern areas of Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur will be a lot more westernised in their dress sense; you can pretty much wear what you would at home on a day-to-day basis with only a few exceptions.

In the more rural areas it is a wise to be respectful and dress a little more conservatively, especially if you are a woman. Although Malaysia is a melting pot with a mixture of religions, the most prominent practice is that of Islam (and the Islamic dress sense ).

Showing a lot of flesh for men or women will attract a lot of attention or, worst-case scenario, cause offence. Jeans and a t-shirt, covering shoulders and cleavage is perfectly fine. Try to keep shorts/skirts/dresses at or just below the knee. Tight and fitted clothing will attract attention such as harmless stares.

You also shouldn’t forget your backpacking essentials! Here are the pieces of gear that I never go travelling without. For even more packing ideas, check out my list gear to take backpacking !

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Malaysia is completely safe for travel. The majority of people you will meet when travelling in Malaysia are incredibly friendly and genuine people.

Malaysia is a peaceful country and incredibly accepting and respectful of other cultures; be respectful back and don’t break the rules. If you do, you may find yourself in a bit of a tough spot.

As long as you stick to the basic tips for travelling safe , you’ll be totally gravy.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the worlds toughest countries when it comes to drugs. If you get caught with drugs you’ll most likely get a mandatory prison sentence or even worse, the death penalty. I’d recommend avoiding drugs altogether when travelling Malaysia, but if you’re going to dabble in these illicit substances, then at least be sure that you’re keyed in on taking drugs on the road .

Alcohol in Malaysia is pretty pricey because it is forbidden for Muslims to drink. However, those who are not Muslim are free to drink if they wish. Many restaurants won’t serve alcohol but will turn a blind eye to those bringing in their own to have with their meal.

House parties are pretty common in Malaysia and are heaps of fun! You’ll find modern clubs in the main cities such as Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Be prepared to pay a pretty penny to get in!

Travel Insurance for Malaysia

Travelling without insurance would be risky, so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure. It’s definitely a smart idea to have travel insurance for Malaysia.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

I arrived in Malaysia by travelling from Thailand across the Thai/Malay border. We hired a local man and his van to drive us to the border in Thailand and then walked through and caught another man in a van on the other side.

There are long-distance bus services that will take you from Thailand to Malaysia as well, but this costs a little more and takes a little longer as well. If you’re short on time or simply a baller, flights from Thailand to Kuala Lumpur are very cheap.

If you’re coming from outside of Asia, the International flight’s hub is Kuala Lumpur, and you can get great deals with an array of different airlines. I have found Malaysian Airlines and Emirates (via Dubai) to offer some of the best prices into Malaysia.

Flying to other airports in Malaysia is easily done but will often cost more and you will stopover in Kuala Lumpur anyway, so you may as well hop off and explore!

Entry Requirements for Malaysia

As of 2016, the majority of nationalities will be able to get a visa on arrival for Malaysia for no cost at all, which is fantastic! For the UK and a number of other nations, you will be permitted to stay for a maximum of 3 months on arrival, but be careful not to overstay this. Malaysia, unlike many other Asian countries, is having a big crackdown on illegal immigration and overstaying your visa may be a tricky (and expensive) situation to get out of.

If you know you will be staying longer than 3 months in Malaysia, it is recommended you visit the Malaysian Diplomatic Mission  in your own country to obtain the correct visa. If you are in the country, head to your local embassy or otherwise just hop out of the country and come back in again.

Once through immigration, Malaysia is a relatively safe and welcoming place to travel. A couple of months is heaps of time to explore this beautiful country. Entering overland into the country you will have your fingerprints taken, passport scanned, and you may be asked about your exit plans, especially if you don’t have a flight out of the country booked.

Malaysian immigration is not new to backpackers so as long as you have an idea of how you will leave, you should be fine. It’s a good idea to have a rough idea of when/how you will be leaving and someone you can call who will vouch for you, just in case. If you need help organising your visa, try using iVisa.

It only takes 2 minutes!  Book your transport on 12Go now  and guarantee your seat easily.

Malaysian roads are top-notch in tourist areas but will quickly turn to gravel and dirt tracks as you venture further away from backpacker hubs and out of the cities. All the same, your options for public transport in Malaysia are plentiful! It’s easy to get around Malaysia.

One of the best ways to get around when backpacking in Malaysia is by bus. Buses are a comfortable and affordable way to travel around Malaysia, however, they’re not the fastest option. Most buses have English translations and super helpful drivers.

It may take longer than flying but buses tend to be air-conditioned and the scenery is pretty beautiful. I wouldn’t recommend using buses in the cities though; they are slow, more expensive and due to congestion are not able to stop exactly where you need to be.

Malaysia is revamping its train service and if you are looking to get from the top to the bottom pretty quickly, it’s a comfortable ride. I didn’t use the long-distance train service whilst backpacking Malaysia, but it is perfect for those short on time.

It is pricier than the bus service and most train services run on a one-line system that will restrict the stopping options you have on the way through the country.

I did not take any domestic flights within Asia but you can pick these up relatively cheap in-country through the likes of Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia for as little as $10 – $30 , one-way, to most destinations in Malaysia. If you only have a short time in Malaysia, this is a great way to travel.

Driving in Malaysia, once out of major cities, is relatively straightforward, and I would dare to say, one of the safest places to drive in Southeast Asia. With good road infrastructure in the cities, traffic lights and well-marked signs your biggest pest will be tailgating and the lack of signal use.

Venture into the countryside expect gravel and dirt roads but beautiful and plentiful view stops. If you are exploring by car in monsoon season, I would recommend hiring a 4×4 car if possible. Getting stuck in the mud is never too much fun!

Kuala Lumpur’s metro is the best, if not, then the only way to travel inner city. The metro will connect to all the must-see places in town as well as the shopping district, nightlife, and areas such as Little India. They even have air-con!

Running every few minutes, why waste your time and money hailing a taxi when the metro will beat the traffic and even take you as far out as the Batu Caves?! Ladies, there is even female-only carriages if you are travelling alone and/or feeling slightly anxious about mixed carriages and local customs.

In Malaysia, you’ll get the best deal on a metered taxi. Don’t jump in a non-metered taxi without agreeing on the price first. You will definitely pay A LOT more than you need to.

Always haggle the price with a non-metered taxi. If they won’t budge, move on, and always check if there’s someone with a much better deal.

To travel around Malaysia quickly would involve a lot of flights, but you’d be missing out on some epic overland scenery and road-trips. Travelling in Malaysia is, after all, a part of the appeal. There is so much to be seen from the road…

Rather than just rocking up at the bus stop in the hope they will have space to fit you on, you can now book tickets in advance for most of Southeast Asia using 12Go ! I love 12Go and used it myself pretty often when backpacking around Malaysia.

Hitchhiking in Malaysia

Hitchhiking in Malaysia is uncommon but not at all difficult. For broke backpackers on a tight budget, hitchhiking offers one of the most cost-effective ways to get around whilst backpacking Malaysia.

The busier roads in Malaysia are often highways, which can make scoring a ride a little tricky. The best tip I was given was to put yourself in a spot that if you score a ride and they come in at speed, you can get out the way. Malaysians are curious and ridiculously friendly, so on a good day, it shouldn’t take you longer than 5 minutes to hitch a ride.

Expect short distance riding, especially in rural areas where not many people are driving by. It’s far more likely you will catch lots of short rides rather than one long one. Make friends with other tourists at gas stations and café stops. You never know who has a spare seat in their car.

Before hopping in the car it’s a good idea to clear the air and make sure the driver is aware you are hitchhiking, not hailing a taxi. That would make for an awkward exit…

Top Tips for Hitchhiking in Malaysia

• Take a road map of Malaysia : It isn’t exactly necessary, but it may help you out in a pinch. Plus, doing it old-school is just a blast!
• Look like a tourist: People know what hitchhiking is and they are interested in foreign visitors, so make sure you look like a tourist. On busy roads, sometimes the wait time is less than 5 minutes.
• Don’t hitch right on the motorway: Unlike in other countries in Asia, it’s not advisable to hitchhike right on the motorway. Police won’t bother, but cars are much less likely to stop if they are too fast or there is no safe place to stop.
• Have a sign with ‘Tumpang’ written on it: This can help, especially if you choose to walk on the Expressway.
• Learn some useful phrases:  Drivers usually speak English, so a few local phrases like the ones below will help!
• Read our Hitchhiking 101 Guide : It helps!
• Where are you going? – Di Mana anda akan pergi?
• I am going to… – Saya mahu pergi ke…
• Please stop here. – Sila berhenti di sini.
• I have no money. – Saya tidak ada duit.
• Thank You – Terima Kasih (Treema-Kahseh)
• I am hitchhiking. – Saya sedang hitchhiking.

Onwards Travel from Malaysia

The main peninsula of Malaysia shares borders with Singapore and Thailand , both of which are relatively easy to cross. To cross the overland route from Malaysia and travel to Singapore requires A LOT of time and patience though. Malaysia also borders with Indonesia if you are over in Borneo.

Thinking about backpacking in The Philippines or Indonesia after Malaysia? Why not follow in the footsteps of the explorers of old and hop on a boat? With some journeys taking just eight hours to reach the Philippines, and ferry prices being relatively cheap, catching a boat out of Malaysia can be an adventurous alternative to flying…

Onwards travel to Indonesia  via ferry is not as common as it once was and these days it can be hard to find a boat heading in the right direction. Melaka is the best place to find a ferry onwards to Malaysia. From here, it is likely your arrival port will be Padang (Sumatra) in Indonesia.

Onwards travel to the Philippines via ferry is recommended from Sandakan using either Aleson Lines or SRN Fastcraft. Neither of these companies offer comprehensive websites, so check the latest information when in country and haggle for the best price. Aleson Lines takes around 16hrs while SRN Fastcraft is only 8hrs to reach the Philippines.

For a more adventurous and unique way to sail to Indonesia or the Philippines (or really anywhere else) check out findacrew.net . Basically, this is Couchsurfing for sailors. You will find locals, travellers, and expats with their own boats looking for crew to help them adventure oversea to their next destination.

It’s perfect if you have a lot of time on your hands and a limited (or non-existent) budget. Many captains don’t require you to have any previous experience and you may even get paid a little for helping out!

Personally, I can’t think of a better way to begin a new adventure after backpacking Malaysia. I will definitely be trying this on my next trip to Malaysia.

Malaysia is a primo spot for working travellers and one that a lot of long-term backpackers and digital nomads end up in. While rural and off-track areas of Malaysia can still be pretty crazy, cities and touristed areas are very modern and, at times, Westernised. Kuala Lumpur alone is a hugely crucial international business and trade hub with plenty of foreigners expatting there.

While there’s no shortage of choices available for working in Malaysia, teaching English is one of the most common forms of employment for backpackers. You will need a work permit for Malaysia , however.

A Temporary Employment Pass is the standard work visa in Malaysia unless certain extenuating circumstances apply (like you work in a highly-technical and highly-payed field). These passes last up to two years and are pretty easy to obtain provided you jump through the require bureaucratical hoops.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in Malaysia

While Southeast Asia as a whole is a prime English teaching destination, Malaysia is one of the hottest candidates among those. Many travellers stop for a contract’s period working as an English teacher in Malaysia .

Given Malaysia’s familiarity with both tourists and expats, as well as their stronger economy and tighter infrastructure, it’s a perfect destination for those with TEFL degrees looking to teach English abroad . You can pitch yourself up in a nice pad for 6-12 months, enjoy the local cuisine, and have a completely refreshed bank account by the time you’re ready to hit the road again!

Now, you will need the aforementioned work permit for this alongside a potential sponsorship/employer. The last thing you’ll need is a TEFL certificate.

TEFL certificates open up a lot of doors for travellers. With one under your belt, you’ll find opportunities to work on the road (and, thus, extend your travels) most places in the world!

There are a lot of choices for acquiring a TEFL degree, however, I recommend running the course through MyTEFL . Not only are they a highly reputable and effective company, but Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount (using the code PACK50)! Not a bad deal at all considering that the payoff is a life of indefinite travel.

Volunteer in Malaysia

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Malaysia which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

While parts of Malaysia are greatly developed, there are still plenty of opportunities for backpackers to offer up some time and skills in other, more rural areas. Most of the gigs you’ll find are ‘bread and board’ opportunities working in hospitality, which are a great way to give back to the local community. English teaching and conservation work are other popular options. A tourist visa is enough for volunteering in Malaysia, although longer stays may require a ‘special visit visa’. 

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Malaysia, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

There are some amazing options for street food in Malaysia. Here are some must try foods in Malaysia:

• Banana Leaf Rice: This is white rice served on a banana leaf with an assortment of vegetables, curried meat or fish, pickles, and the super addictive papadum (look like giant, round, flat crisps)!
• Nasi Dagang: Rice steamed in coconut milk, fish curry and extra ingredients such as fried shaved coconut, solok lada, hard-boiled eggs, and vegetable pickles.
• Hokkien mee: Thick yellow noodles braised in thick dark soy sauce with pork, squid, fish-cake and cabbage as the main ingredients.
• Satay: Meats on sticks over a BBQ – simple, scrumptious!

If you’re interested in learning the cuisine, then check out this site for awesome deals on Malaysian cooking classes !

Malaysians are incredibly friendly people; they have grown up in one of the biggest melting pots of cultures I have come across. They are so interested in your story and will often ask you a lot of questions. They love to take pictures with the people they meet. This even happened to me at the border crossing.

If you don’t want your picture taken, just politely decline, though they may take a sneaky one anyway. It is not uncommon for Malaysians to invite you for tea or for dinner. It is up to you if you want to accept this offer, but I mean, why wouldn’t you?

I have yet to meet an unfriendly Malaysian and found everyone to be extremely respectful. If nothing else, you will not be without friends when backpacking in Malaysia.

Useful Travel Phrases for Malaysia

It always helps to learn new languages and pieces of the local language when you travel to a foreign country! Below are my favourite Malaysia travel phrases:

• Hi Friend!  – Hi!
• Kwan apa khabar?  – How are you?
• Sangat bagus. – Very good.
• Siapa nama anda? – What’s your name?
• Nama saya … – My name is….
• Selamat malam  – Goodnight
• Selamat tinggal  – Goodbye
• Berapa harganya ini? – How much is this?
• Di mana tandas? – Where’s the toilet?
• No plastic bag – Tiada beg plastik
• No straw please – Tidak ada jerami sila
• No plastic cutlery please – Tidak plastik alat makan sila
• Terima kasih – Thank you
• Tolong – Please
• Saya dari … – I’m from ….
• Makan! Makan!  – Eat! Eat!
• Saya tidak faham – I don’t understand

Books to Read About Malaysia

Backpacking Malaysia will be made even more incredible with background knowledge. To truly get an idea of the incredible range of cultures, religions, and traditions in Malaysia, I highly recommend reading some of these books set in Malaysia before your travels.

• Floating on a Malayan Breeze: Travels in Malaysia and Singapore – A great insight into how Malaysian culture developed and grew after splitting with Singapore and how different the two places are.
• A Town Like Alice –  The story of Jean Paget, a young Englishwoman who becomes romantically interested in a fellow prisoner of World War II in Malaya, and after liberation emigrates to Australia to be with him, where she attempts to generate economic prosperity in a small community – to turn it into “a town like Alice”.
• Stranger in the Forest: On Foot Across Borneo – If this doesn’t convince you to go and explore the wild side of Borneo, I don’t know what will.
• Malaysia – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture – I don’t normally take guide books with me, but this was a good read before I left.
• The Harmony Silk Factory – A fantastic read comparing different cultures and how they lived and worked together. One of my favourites!

I love reading before taking my next trip. Actually, I just love to read in general. Check out more of my favourite books to read on the road for some lazy hammock day inspiration!

A Brief History of Malaysia

For many centuries, the British colonized Malaysia.

On December 8, 1941, the Japanese invaded the Malay Peninsula and they quickly overran it, but after WWII the Japanese were overrun.

As they were gaining independence, there was tension between Malays and non-Malays. It culminated in violence after an election in May 1969. The two sides came to violence and the government declared a state of emergency and parliament was suspended.

The Malaysian government then adopted a new, successful economic policy. It was remarkably successful.

From the 1970s on, Malaysia changed from being a poor, agricultural country to a rich, industrial one. The standard of living of the Malaysian people rose dramatically and Malaysia remains more prosperous than most Southeast Asian countries today.

There are a lot of incredible reasons to travel Malaysia . It’s a beautiful country filled with many beautiful people.  Enjoy it!

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Scuba Diving in Malaysia

Malaysia has plenty of great scuba diving options. The most famous sites, however, are located on  Sipadan Island  and Mabul Island . 

Sipadan is by far the best place to enjoy scuba diving; it is also not that easy to actually dive at because of the restricting rules that are in place (i.e., daily permits). Mabul is known worldwide for its amazing muck diving conditions.

Scuba Dive Malaysia on a Liveaboard Trip

So you have some diving experience under your belt and you want to get to know some of Malaysia’s best dive sites intimately?

Then consider joining a liveaboard scuba diving trip in Malaysia !

There is no better way to experience remote, super interesting dive sites than on a liveaboard trip. You get what you pay for: excellent food, days of diving, and comfortable accommodation.

If you have the burning desire to do heaps of scuba diving in awesome locations, then a liveaboard diving trip somewhere amazing may be just the thing for you.

Trekking in Malaysia

Adventurists and avid trekkers will want to head to Borneo. There are several beautiful national parks, and ample opportunities to hike through jungles, over mountains, and through remote villages. If you’re a fan of the trail, be sure to plan a hiking adventure in Malaysia .

Just be good to Malaysia.

Writing your name in black marker on temples, chugging beer while shirtless, swearing loudly, and visiting unethical animal attractions ? You, Sir, are a twat.

Luckily, most backpackers don’t fall into this category but, when you’re out and about and have had a few too many drinks, it can be easy to embarrass yourself.  It’s easy to get carried away in Southeast Asia: everything is so damn cheap and so much fun.

Look up ethical animal sanctuaries , and learn more about the Palm Oil Plantation/deforestation crisis.

If you’re not into seeing the temples, no worries , but don’t be disrespectful, inappropriate, or deface them – certainly, do not try to wander in shirtless. Malaysia is predominantly Muslim, so dress conservatively when you are not on a beach.

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia. Despite being an experienced driver, I’ve had a total of three crashes in South East Asia over the last ten years. On the one occasion, when I wasn’t wearing a helmet, I split my head open and had to go to the hospital. It was an expensive mistake.

The local people are sick of scraping foreigners off the road and, trust me, you don’t look cool for not wearing a helmet.

Humans are humans; treat people you meet along the way with the same respect you would show your friends and family back home. You are not superior to anyone including the girls/guys walking the streets.

Go to Asia and have the time of your life, do the things you’ve dreamed of, but be respectful along the way. Travelling the world makes you an ambassador for your country , which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with your country…

All in all, just be cool, homie. Malaysia is a beautiful place filled with a lot of beautiful people. And now, you have everything you need to know to hit the road and begin backpacking Malaysia. So get out there already!

Got more to add to the guide? Let me know in the comments below! We’re always on the hunt for the tastiest new updates on our favourite countries.

And above all, have a blast, amigos. Eat ’til you drop, then eat some more!

• Where to stay in Malaysia
• Backpacking Southeast Asia Travel Guide
• Backpacking Indonesia
• Backpacking Thailand
• Backpacking Vietnam Travel Guide
• Backpacking Cambodia

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Nic Hilditch-Short

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25 Comments

Super Great info. thanks for this. Malaysia is one of my Favorite destinations. I have only been to peninsular malaysia but hoping to hit up Borneo areas as well and will certainly check back when I do.

I love reading such long and detailed posts about any place or a country. They instantly ignite the wanderlust within. I have only been to KL in Malaysia. But now I feel like exploring the country thoroughly!

Wow, very informative. Do you think traveling Malaysia can be a good choice for someone who is 5months pregnant?

So in love with Malaysia too! Always been mesmerized by the beaches and their rich culture. Planning to come back next year. Enjoyed reading your post. Kudos!

Wow this is an excellent trip to Malaysia…many and many i can observe the places Borneo,Epic Road Trip and the lights beauty its just stunning thanks for the blog!

Good resource! I will admit I have never really thought about Malaysia too much, but after reading your blog will definitely consider this in my bucket list.

I love Malaysia Chinese foods! I also love travel in Malaysia! When i first travel Malaysia i have no idea. I spend a lot of my for travel! But now i know everything! Awesome post! I got Malaysia visa from Keymalaysia.com website! Thanks, dear for the awesome content!

Try Kuching in Sarawak, for something different in Malaysia. Thanks for the pics they brought back happy memories of our visits. My wife and I have been there a number of times and we love the place.

Will thank you for informing us of Malasia and their beautiful culture. I would really love to see it, especially the tea plantations.

Hi Will, I’m a Malaysian and I want to correct you on a mistake. Under the section “Backpacking Melaka”, the picture describing [Cool art on the streets of Melaka] is actually located in Georgetown, Penang but not Melaka. I love reading your posts here. I’m planning to backpacking in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in the upcoming June. Thank you for all the tips you shared.

Dating women in a theocracy? I had no luck whatsoever…

You can date women in any country if you act respectfully and throw down some charm, I met my wife in Iran.

Absolutely fantastic post! Thanks

Great guide but this should be a guide on travelling in West Malaysia only. Sabah and Sarawak are part of Malaysia too but I guess you didn’t go there.

Hi, how easy is it to get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang? Do buses/trains run quite regularly? Same with to Langkawi, is there a boat from penang to Langkawi and is there quite regular travel from Langkawi back to KL.. Thanks

It’s actually quite easy to travel from KL to Penang by bus. You can take a bus from Pudu Sentral (around RM30 per person). The bus terminal operate 24 hours.You can get a bus each hour. A boat from Penang to Langkawi is approx RM60 per person. You may want to consider AirAsia as another alternative because sometimes they sell tickets cheaper than the ferry. Hope this help. We are able to pick you up at the airport and offer you affordable accomodation. Do contact me and i will bring you around. =)

Inbox us anytime. https://www.facebook.com/BrogaHomestay/

Great post, was super helpful in our trip around Malaysia! I also recommend checking out Borneo, there is some world-class diving, beaches, hiking and unforgettable encounters with orangutans in the jungle ?

Check out our blog for lots of tips and inspiration: https://bonatravels.com/2017/10/15/destination-guide-malaysia/

Great post! Borneo is my favourite place in malaysia , especially kinabatangan river.

https://www.facebook.com/BrogaHomestay/

Well-made guide, although it really just scratches the surface…nothing on Sarawak/Sabah? Malaysia has a lot of unknown places to discover, especially in the interior. Driving a car, as you suggested, is a good idea. I like Highway 76 a lot, leaving North of Kuala Kangsar to gerik, passing via lenggong, it goes through some really nice scenery and towns worth exploring. And about Penang… check out my site.

I love peninsular Malaysia too but backpacking Sarawak is just about the most fun you can have in SE Asia

Hi there, i have rooms for backpacker located near to tourist attraction at Broga Hill, Gunung Tok Wan & Sek Na Tu temple. This area suitable for hikers, camping & backpackers. How can i list my room in your website? Looking forward for your reply. Thank you

Ah next time you should go to Tioman! Amazingly clear water with beautiful coral and colourful fish.

I planned on going to Malaysia for about a week and ended up staying for four. Wonderful place.

Such a detailed information about Malaysia! I wish this will be very helpful for all the people who are looking forward to plan their next trip to Malaysia. All they need to do is to read this blog post!

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Suggested Itineraries in Malaysia

Most visitors to Malaysia will arrive at Kuala Lumpur's (KL's) international airport, spend a day in the capital, then run around the country trying to see as much as they can in a short span of time. While it's natural to want to maximize your vacation time, I am of the philosophy that to try to pack too much into your holiday will actually detract from your overall travel experience. I've advised countless people on their trips and have been horrified to see some of the itineraries put together by well-meaning but ill-informed travel agents in the West. Many are absolutely exhausting, some physically impossible. I recommend that you see no more than three destinations in 1 week, preferably only two. That way, you have time not just to see the sights, but to stop and feel the rhythm of local life -- to eat the food, smell the smells, speak with the people.

The itineraries I've suggested are all based on 1-week stays in Malaysia. Each itinerary differs depending on your point of interest: Do you like historical sights and museums? Do you want to appreciate nature and explore the great outdoors? Or do you just want to relax on the best beaches, scuba, or snorkel?

A major consideration when planning your trip is the heat. Especially if you're not used to it, the heat and humidity can sap the energy from you. By the time you've finished lunch, you'll barely have the stamina to keep up with the rest of your planned activities. Combined with jet lag, you'll be asleep before dinner. Not a swell time. Keep daily itineraries simple, and make time for afternoon coffee or tea.

Also, when flying between cities domestically, budget your time like this: One flight will take about a half-day. So if you're flying from Penang to KL, set aside either a whole morning or a whole afternoon for the flight. That will include airport transfers and whatnot. Along the same lines, all domestic flights either originate or end up in KL. What this means is, if you're flying from Penang to, say, Kota Kinabalu, you'll fly from Penang to KL in the morning, have lunch in the airport, then spend the afternoon flying from KL to Kota Kinabalu. It could take a whole day.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Malaysia , Itineraries

The ultimate 7 day malaysia itinerary – 5 different ideas.

Table of Contents

Malaysia is one of Southeast Asia’s true gems. It’s an epic destination for anyone who wants to experience the true diversity of Asia. With pristine beaches, ancient rainforests, world-class street food and traditional temples, Malaysia really has it all. In this post, I’ve shared five different ideas for the perfect 7 day Malaysia itinerary. This includes an itinerary for foodies, beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, nature fans and those who want to experience a bit of everything Malaysia has to offer.

Malaysia is without a doubt one of my favourite countries in Asia. It was the first destination I visited in Asia I’ve now been there three times. This country is such an underrated spot and is a must visit country.

Realistically, 7 days in Malaysia isn’t enough time to see everything, but that doesn’t mean you can’t see some highlights. I hope the below suggestions for a 7 day Malaysia itinerary will help you to create the perfect trip.

To find out the best time of year to visit Malaysia and other tips, check out my backpacking guide for Malaysia .

How to get around Malaysia

The good news is it’s incredibly easy to get around Malaysia. There is a good public transportation system and affordable buses, trains and flights.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker or travelling in style, getting around Malaysia is relatively straightforward. The best website to use for booking transport in Malaysia is 12Go . You can book busses and boats through this easy-to-use website.

It’s not normally necessary to hire a car in Malaysia. In fact, you’ll likely find this will limit where you can visit.

I’ve spoken more about how to get around Malaysia in my Malaysia backpacking guide.

Is one week in Malaysia enough?

No, one week in Malaysia isn’t enough time to see everything. Malaysia is a large and diverse country with many highlights. It would be impossible to see everything in seven days.

Having said that, one week is a common amount of time people have to explore this country. While you can’t see everything, you’ll be able to visit several of the popular destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands and Georgetown.

It would be easy to adapt each of the below itineraries to 10 days. You could also consider adding in another destination if you have some extra days in Malaysia.

Best places to visit in Malaysia

Before I share five different ideas for how to spend a week in Malaysia, here are the best destinations to consider on your trip to Malaysia. It would be impossible to see all of the below in just seven days, but you can look to combine two or three places.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia. Home to the famous Petronas Twin Towers, the city combines old with new and is a testament to the diversity of Malaysia. With modern and traditional architecture, historic temples, vibrant street markets and delicious street food, Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit while in Malaysia.

Some of Kuala Lumpur’s highlights include the famous Batu Caves, the Petronas Twin Towers, Little India and Chinatown.

If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur, discover how to spend the perfect 3-days in Malaysia’s capital .

Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands is one of my favourite places in Malaysia. Arriving in the Cameron Highlands is like being transported to the traditional British countryside. With its rolling hills, mossy forest and strawberry farms, the Cameron Highlands is one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia .

The Cameron Highlands is also home to several tea plantations, including the famous Boh Tea Plantation. It’s a haven for nature and hiking enthusiasts. Due to its elevation, the Cameron Highlands tends to have a cooler climate. If you plan to visit here, make sure you have something that’s long-sleeved.

Taman Negara

Taman Negara is one of Malaysia’s ancient rainforests. If you want to go off-grid and immerse yourself in nature, Taman Negara is the answer. From canopy tours to jungle hikes, Taman Negara is a haven for those who love nature.

This can be done as a day trip from Kuala Lumpur , but I’d suggest staying at least one night to make the most of the area.

Perhentian Islands

These tropical islands are a gem off Malaysia’s east coast. The Perhentian Islands boast pristine beaches, vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters. If you want to experience Southeast Asia’s famous beaches while in Malaysia, this is the place to visit.

The Perhentian Islands are often inaccessible during the monsoon soon (October to March). If you want to visit them, be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

Langkawi is an archipelago on Malaysia’s west coast. It’s a tropical paradise full of beautiful beaches, epic snorkelling and diving opportunities and beautiful scenery. The main beach of Pantai Cenang is lined with authentic restaurants and bars to grab a drink as the sun goes down.

Langkawi is on the Thai border and it’s even possible to visit the Thai island paradise of Koh Lipe from Langkawi.

The charming city of Ipoh is renowned for its famous and mouth-watering street food. With a diverse range of quality local dishes to try, a visit to Ipoh is a must for food enthusiasts. Nestled amongst the limestone mountains, Ipoh is incredibly picturesque and offers an authentic Malaysian experience.

The beautiful historic city of Melaka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Southwest Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Melaka is a haven for culture lovers. The city showcases its colonial past through incredible architecture, blending Portuguese, Dutch and British influences. While in Melaka, be sure to visit the Jonker Street Night Market which is lined with vibrant eateries and hawkers selling delicious street food.

Melaka is well worth visiting if you’re interested in the history and culture of Malaysia.

Georgetown, Penang Island

Georgetown is the vibrant capital of Penang and is one of Malaysia’s must-visit destinations. This lively spot is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area showcases a range of colonial-era architecture, stunning street art, and is known for its incredible culinary scene. The food on offer is a fusion of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavours. It was genuinely some of the best street food I’ve ever eaten in my life.

One of the main attractions in the area is Penang National Park. This area is full of lush rainforest and beautiful white beaches .

Malaysian Borneo

Also known as East Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo is renowned for its stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife. Home to endless lush forests and pristine beaches, the region is a haven for Malaysian wildlife including the magnificent Orangutan and pygmy elephant.

The area is also home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates with its breathtaking landscapes and is a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

I recommend using Booking to find your accommodation throughout Malaysia.

Is Kuala Lumpur worth visiting?

If you only have one week in Malaysia, it’s fair to question how much time you should spend in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur is one of my favourite cities so I’m certainly biased when it comes to this question, but I think it’s worth spending at least a day in the city.

If you enjoy culture, street food or even shopping, I’d suggest spending a day or two longer there.

I’ve suggested a different amount of time to spend in Kuala Lumpur in each of the itineraries below.

7 day Malaysia Itinerary for nature lovers

First up is a 7 day Malaysia itinerary for nature lovers. Despite the modern amenities of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is home to some incredible wildlife and scenery. In this itinerary, I’ve suggested how you can make the most of this.

Day 1: Kuala Lumpur

Spend the first day of your trip getting acquainted with Malaysia in its capital city, Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur is a busy and urban city, but there’s actually a rainforest right in the city centre. The KL Forest Eco Park is a small area of lush forest which is open to be explored. Before Kuala Lumpur was built, the entire area was one giant rainforest. The KL Forest Eco Park is home to some of this native vegetation. It costs 40 MYR ($9 USD) to enter.

Another beautiful spot in Kuala Lumpur is the Perdana Botanical Garden. There are several walking paths around the park with superb views of the city. It’s free to enter.

Days 2 & 3: Taman Negara

The second day of your trip to Malaysia starts nice and early as you head to Taman Negara, one of the world’s oldest rainforest. Even with just 7 days in Malaysia, a visit to Taman Negara is an absolute must for nature lovers.

Adventure awaits as you have the chance to explore the dense jungle, search for wildlife, cross canopy walkways and embark on river cruises.

I would suggest booking a package which includes transport from Kuala Lumpur, accommodation, activities and even food.

Alternatively, you can arrange your trip to Taman Negara independently. There are shuttles available and several accommodation options. One of the best places to stay in Taman Negara is the Balai Serama Guesthouse . This affordable hotel offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the jungle.

Days 4 & 5: Cameron Highlands

Wave goodbye to the ancient rainforest of Taman Negara and head to the rolling hills of the Cameron Highlands. Spend two nights here to make the most of all the area has to offer. Base yourself in the town of Tanah Rata which is close to the area’s main attractions.

To make the most of the beautiful surroundings, join a day tour to visit the Mossy Forest and Boh Tea Plantation. After this, hit one of the many hiking trails in the area.

Note : many of the hiking trails are inaccessible during the rainy season (May & June and September to January). I visited in January and most of the hiking trails were closed.

To get to the Cameron Highlands from Taman Negara, speak to your accommodation about booking an onward transfer. You can also get a coach to Tanah Rata.  

Days 6 & 7: Penang OR Langkawi

There are two options to complete your 7 day Malaysia itinerary: either Georgetown (Penang) or the tropical island of Langkawi.

The Island of Penang is a cultural hot spot in Malaysia. Home to Georgetown and its vibrant streets, there are ample things to do in Georgetown to keep you busy for a couple of days. For nature lovers, be sure to visit Penang National Park. This incredible spot is Malaysia’s smallest National Park . Despite its size, it’s a stunning area with a few hiking trails to explore. While in Penang National Park, keep an eye out for monkeys.

Back in the town, enjoy the hustle and bustle of Georgetown. Search for the beautiful street art and enjoy the famous street food. Other nearby spots which nature lovers might enjoy include the tropical spice garden and taking a trip up Penang Hill.

To get to Penang from the Cameron Highlands, catch the bus to Butterwork (Penang Sentral) and jump on the ferry across to Georgetown.

The other option to round off your 7 day Malaysia itinerary is the island of Langkawi, one of Malaysia’s tropical paradises. If you want to relax on a beach and go diving or snorkelling, a trip to Langkawi is the answer.

Find out how to get to Langkawi .

Other idea: Malaysian Borneo

If you really want to experience the best of Malaysia’s nature, then a visit to Malaysian Borneo and Kota Kinabalu is a must. Home to endless rainforests, rare wildlife and sacred mountains, Borneo really is an absolutely magnificent place.

With only a week in Malaysia, you won’t have the time to visit Borneo and other destinations on this suggested itinerary. If you do end up visiting Borneo, consider hiking Mount Kinabalu and visiting Sabah for the chance to see orangutans.

7 day Malaysia Itinerary for beach lovers

Despite being home to some pristine beaches, Malaysia is often overlooked as a beach destination. In the following itinerary. I’ve shared two different ideas for how to spend 7 days making the most of Malaysia’s beaches.

There are two popular options when it comes to relaxing on a beach: Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands. If you only have one week in Malaysia, I’d suggest choosing one or the other. Moving between the two won’t be easy and will eat up valuable time.

Option 1: Perhentian Islands  

The Perhentian Islands are the definition of paradise. Think palm trees, white beaches and crystal clear waters. The islands are also home to some unique marine life and it’s a fantastic destination for snorkelling and diving.

There are two main islands people opt to stay on: Perhentian Cecil and Perhentian Besar. Perhentian Besar is the larger island of the two and tends to attract families and the more resort-style travellers. It’s easy to get between the two islands and you could split your time between the two.

To get to the Perhentian Islands, you first need to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut. There are busses and flights available . From there, there is a boat you can catch to the Perhentian Islands.

Note : the monsoon season hits the Perhentian Islands from October to March. It’s not advised to travel there during this period.

Option 2: Langkawi Island

Langkawi is an island paradise. It’s right on the border of Thailand and is surrounded by tropical scenery and beautiful coastlines. I’d suggest staying in the town of Patai Cenang. It’s home to an incredible beach with several bars and restaurants.

While in Langkawi, consider a snorkelling or diving trip to experience some of the local marine life. The Langkawi Sky Bridge is another popular attraction on the island, offering panoramic views above the tree line.

With a whole week in Langkawi, you could also consider spending a night or two in the nearby Koh Lipe. This requires you to do a border crossing into Thailand, but it’s very straightforward. The boat only takes 2-hours and it’s well worth it.

7 day Malaysia itinerary for culture lovers

It’s no secret that Malaysia is one of the world’s most multicultural destinations. With a rich and diverse history combining several religions, an adventure around Malaysia is a must for those who love culture and history.

Days 1-3: Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s capital city is a haven for culture lovers. Around every street corner there is another temple, historic building or mosque waiting to be explored. The city is full of history and there is so much to see and do here.

I’ve spoken more about how to spend 3 days in Kuala Lumpur , but some unmissable spots for culture lovers include:

• The Batu Caves : Kuala Lumpur’s famous Hindu temple and one of the top things to see in the city. The colourful steps lead you up to caves full of shrines.
• Little India : see another side to Kuala Lumpur’s history by visiting Little India. Wander the vibrant streets, admire the temples and try some of the delicious street food.
• Merdeka Square : home to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, this area of Kuala Lumpur is the symbol of the country’s independence.
• Chinatown : a walk through the vibrant streets of KL’s Chinatown, including the famous Petaling Street, will be sure to get the senses tingling. While in Chinatown, pay a visit to the Central Market.
• The National Museum of Malaysia : to learn more about the interesting history of this diverse country, pay a visit to its national museum.

On the third day in Kuala Lumpur, consider a day trip (or overnight trip) to the city of Melaka (Malacca). You can do this independently or as an organised tour .

Officially designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Melaka is full of colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant street art, offering a unique insight into the country’s history.

Day 4: Ipoh

Next up, head to the city of Ipoh . This city is a little less visited than other areas in Malaysia, but it’s an absolute must for both foodies and culture lovers. With only one week in Malaysia, you won’t have time to see everything, but consider visiting Concubine Lane, Koh Lok Tong Cave Temple and following the famous Ipoh Heritage Trail.

Ipoh is also surrounded by beautiful scenery. Use your time in Ipoh to discover Malaysia’s incredible nature.

To get to Ipoh from Kuala Lumpur, book your bus through 12Go Asia .

Days 5-7: Georgetown, Penang

End your 7-day Malaysia itinerary in Georgetown, Penang. With street art, incredible food, national parks and endless temples, Georgetown really has something for everything.

One of the best places to visit in the Penang area is the Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Once the sun sets, explore the vibrant night market full of hawkers selling some of the best street food in the world. Don’t miss visiting the Clan Jetties, historic Chinese villages built over water.

Georgetown is on the Island of Penang. From Ipoh, get the bus to Butterworth then change to the ferry for Georgetown.

After finishing your week in Malaysia, return to Kuala Lumpur or continue your overland journey into Thailand.

7 day Malaysia itinerary for foodies

Malaysia has some of the best street food in the entire world. I knew little about Malaysian food before visiting, but it’s quickly become one of my favourite cuisines. In this itinerary, I’ve shared a 7 day Malaysia itinerary for those who want to experience the best food this country has to offer.

Days 1 & 2: Kuala Lumpur

Begin your 7 days in Malaysia in the capital city, Kuala Lumpur. To experience the best food, be sure to visit the Jalan Alor Street Food market. Once the sun starts to go down, this street comes to life with hawkers and restaurants selling authentic Malaysian street food.

Petaling Street is another famous street food market. Located in the bustling Chinatown, the street has endless food stalls offering an array of traditional Malay and Chinese food. Don’t miss out on visiting Little India in Kuala Lumpur to try some authentic Indian food.

If you want to learn more about the food, consider joining a street food tour. I did this while in Kuala Lumpur and it was very worthwhile.  

Days 3 & 4: Ipoh

Next up is Ipoh, an absolute MUST for those who want to experience some of the world’s best street food. Wander through the lively streets to discover an array of spices and flavours. From the iconic Ipoh Hor Fun (flat rice noodles in a savoury broth) to the fragrant Char Kway Teow (stir-fried flat noodles), the city is an adventure on the tastebuds.

There are daily busses between Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh.

Days 5 – 7: Georgetown, Penang

Finish your week in Malaysia with a trip to Georgetown, Penang. Georgetown is another destination popular for food enthusiasts and for good reason.

Georgetown is renowned for having some of the best street food not only in Malaysia, but in the entire world. Come night time, the streets come to life with hawkers selling an assortment of foods full of aromatic flavours. Consider a trip to the Tropical Spice Garden, join a cooking class or partner with a local to experience some of the best street food on a tour .

You can reach Georgetown from Ipoh by taking the bus to Butterworth. From here, take the ferry to Georgetown.

7 day Malaysia itinerary for a bit of everything

Want to see a bit of everything Malaysia has to offer? Consider this 7 day itinerary.

Start your week in Malaysia with a day in the capital city. There is so much to see and do here that it’s going to be tough to squeeze it all into one day.

I’d recommend starting your day early at the Batu Caves, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most famous attractions. From here, head to the famous Bukit Bintang area, which is home to luxury shopping centres and traditional markets. From here, wander to the Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park for *that* iconic view. Consider visiting the tower’s Observation Deck for panoramic views of the city.

End your day in the famous Chinatown and try some delicious street food before heading to one of the iconic rooftop bars.

Day 2: day trip to Taman Negara or Melaka

Use the second day to do a day trip to a nearby destination. I’d suggest either Melaka or Taman Negara. Melaka offers an incredible insight into Malaysia’s history. Taman Negara on the other hand boasts one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Both can be done as organised day trips from Kuala Lumpur . It’s also possible to visit Melaka independently.

Another day trip from Kuala Lumpur is to the Cameron Highlands. It’s quite a lot of driving for one day, but it’s a fun day out. The Cameron Highlands is home to incredible countryside and offers insight into a completely different side of Malaysia. Home to the famous Mossy Forest, strawberry fields and tea plantations, the Cameron Highlands is a fantastic place to explore.

If you don’t fancy a day trip, spend the second day exploring more of Kuala Lumpur. Consider areas such as the Perdana Botanical Garden or go shopping mall hopping.

Days 3 & 4: Georgetown, Penang

Say goodbye to Kuala Lumpur and head to Georgetown in Penang for the next two days. Here, you’ll find a stunning national park , impressive temples and some of the world’s best street food.

To get from Kuala Lumpur to Georgetown, you’ll need to get the bus to Butterworth. From there, you can get a ferry across to Georgetown. Alternatively, it’s possible to fly from Kuala Lumpur to Georgetown.

Days 5-7: Langkawi

The final stop on your 7 day Malaysia itinerary is the beautiful island of Langkawi. End your trip on a relaxing note by lying on the beach, snorkelling in the beautiful waters and exploring the hidden waterfalls of Langkawi.

Tips for your 7 day Malaysia Itinerary

• Pack light: With just one week in Malaysia, you’ll be on the move a lot. Be sure to pack light so you don’t have to carry too much. Malaysia is a hot and humid country, so you need light clothes to keep you cool.
• Carry cash: Many of Malaysia’s hawkers and smaller shops still only accept cash. The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. ATMs are available around the country.
• Book in advance : Make sure to plan ahead for your seven days in Malaysia. You don’t want to risk activities or transport being sold out because you only have a week. Book everything ahead of time so you can do everything you want to do.
• Dress conservatively : When visiting the temples and mosques, women are required to have their shoulders and knees covered. If you don’t have anything, you’ll be asked to rent something suitable or will be refused entry.
• Tap water: You can’t drink the tap water in Malaysia. Either buy a water filter such as Lifestraw or take a reusable bottle you can fill. I found most accommodations in Malaysia offer places where you can safely refill your water.

Continue planning your trip to Malaysia with my other guides.

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My 1-Month Malaysia Travel Itinerary: Malaysia Travel Guide

Over the course of my year backpacking around Southeast Asia , I travelled to Malaysia a total of 3 times! I think it’s fair to say that I really enjoyed my time in the country. For anyone planning a similar trip, I wanted to share with you my 1-month Malaysia travel itinerary which included stops in 4 destinations: Melaka , Kuala Lumpur, Georgetown, and the Cameron Highlands.

1-Month Malaysia Travel Itinerary

Melaka / Malacca

– 9 days –

Melaka was my first destination in Malaysia and it completely took me by surprise! I came here not knowing what to expect and I found myself staying in the heart of Chinatown (the best area in my opinion!), soaking in the swaying red lanterns , burning incense, and morning call to prayer.

If you enjoy markets, I would suggest you plan your visit so that it overlaps with the Jonker Street Night Market . Friday and Saturday night draw in the crowds and it’s quite the sensory overload. While I didn’t necessarily buy any souvenirs, I really enjoyed the street food available. From durian ice cream to fried carrot cake (which is actually made with radishes and not carrots!), there were plenty of new and interesting dishes to try .

Also, if you can muster the early wake-up call, it’s really worth getting dim sum for breakfast . Located on Jalan Tukang Besi, there is a little dim sum restaurant that sits directly across from the Kampung Kling Mosque. The place opens long before the sun comes up, and I was always surprised by the number of locals up at 6 in the morning  drinking tea and enjoying everything from har gow ( shrimp dumplings ) to char siu baau ( fluffy steamed buns filled with barbecued pork ).

Melaka also has a lot to offer in terms of culture seeing as  the city itself is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . One of the best ways to get an overview of the historic centre is by hiring a trishaw driver to take you around for an hour. Drivers are parked around the Dutch Square and 40 ringgits is the standard rate for a 1 hour ride. Their loop will generally take you around  Stadthuys, Christ Church, Saint Paul’s Church, Porta de Santiago, and the Maritime Museum . From there they’ll swing through Chinatown with visits to Jonker Street ,  Cheng Hoon Teng Temple,  Masjid Kampung Kling (Mosque), and a few other historical buildings along the way. You’ll have time to hop off the trishaw and visit any of these spots, but do keep in mind that the clock is ticking and your driver will only take you around for 1 hour. I would recommend using the trishaw ride as a way to get a better overview of the city, and you can then revisit these places at your own leisure.

I would also suggest taking a boat tour down the Malacca River . I took the trip twice – once in the evening and then again during the daytime – and it was a nice way to see the colourful buildings that line the promenade. If you’re up for a morning stroll, you can wander this same area on foot.

And if you’re craving Indian food, you can’t miss  Little India for a thali set served on a banana leaf ! My go-to spot was Selvam Banana Leaf Restaurant .

Where I stayed:   Kawan Kawan Guest House

This was a cute family run guesthouse in a great location in Chinatown. They had a mix of private rooms with en suite bathrooms, as well as private rooms with shared bathrooms. The latter were a more budget friendly option , but even the shared bathrooms were kept incredibly clean a tidy!

Kuala Lumpur

– 10 days –

While in retrospect I would have spent far less time in Kuala Lumpur (10 days felt a bit too long in this big urban sprawl!), I did enjoy the abundant supply of Indian restaurants in this city. I couldn’t walk more than a few meters without bumping into a little spot serving up roti canai and hot cups of spicy chai.

A few favourites included Restoran Anuja (located by the Puduraya Bus Station) and  Restoran Yusoof dan Zakhir (located in the Central Market). I’d also recommend checking out the hawker style food courts found along Petaling Street for a bit of a different flavour; you’ll find some cheap and tasty eats there.

When it came to sightseeing, my first order of business in Kuala Lumpur was to swing by the Petronas Towers . I first caught a glimpse of them twinkling at night, and I returned again the following day for a look at them in the daylight. Equally impressive!

I also enjoyed visiting the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park , which is an enclosed free-flight aviary – this means the majority of the birds roam free in an environment that closely resembles their natural habitat . The park is home to more than 3000 birds which are represented by more than 200 species. There were hornbills, peacocks, flamingos, parrots, storks, rainbow lorikeets, and countless others whose names I do not know.

And of course, no visit to Kuala Lumpur would have been complete without taking the train to the outskirts of town for a look at the Batu Caves . These impressive limestone caves which are home to a popular Hindu shrine are located 13 kilometres north of the city.  Reaching the top involves climbing 272 steps where cheeky monkeys lurk in search of food and cans of Coca-Cola – do not make eye contact and do not try to pet them! I went there early in the morning (to avoid the heat and the tour groups) and the place was virtually desolate. I watched the morning prayers take place at one of the shrines inside the cave and then came down for a bite at one of the many   vegetarian restaurants located at the base of the cave .

Where I stayed: Hotel A-One

I stayed at the Hotel A-One several times when passing through KL because it was a good location – close to Chinatown, the Central Market, and nearby transportation . They key to getting an extra spacious room here is to upgrade to the Deluxe for just a couple more dollars. Also, their Wi-fi was incredibly fast, and they had an excellent restaurant serving up roti and chai right across the hotel. 

One of my favourite things about Georgetown is the street art by Lithuanian born artist Ernest Zacharevic . He has transformed many a forgotten wall with murals of children playing, as well as bicycle and motorcycle installations. His work lends the city a playful feel, and it’s nice turning the corner and unexpectedly discovering his pieces.

A few of the attractions worth checking out in Georgetown include the Clan Jetties , where the Chinese community lives in stilt houses above the water; the Botanic Gardens , which offer a nice place where to cool down under the thick foliage; and the Kek Lok Si Temple (also known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss), which is located just a short bus ride away in Air Itam.

Much like Melaka, you can also take a trishaw tour around town . The driver will take you around the historic attractions and give you time to hop off and explore these places a bit further. Hiring a driver for 1 hour comes to a little over $10.

And lastly, one of the reasons to come to Georgetown, Penang and linger is the food! Little India is home to two of my favourite restaurants:  Restoran Kapitan  and  Kassim Mustafa Nasi Kandar . If you are craving some tandoori chicken and palak paneer with a side of butter garlic naan, look no further than here! I was alternating between these two places every day.

Where I stayed:   Armenian Street Heritage Hotel

I loved this property! The Armenian Street Heritage Hotel was located in a historic property, and it was 5 floors of luxury at an affordable rate . It was within walking distance to the historic centre and the mall, and there were also lots of great little cafes in the area.

Cameron Highlands / Tanah Rata

– 3 days –

While I only spent a few brief days in the town of Tanah Rata, I really enjoyed the laid back feel of the place. In the mornings I would walk into the town, grab a seat at one of the many little food stands set up along the main road, and order up a hot cup of spicy chai and a plate of roti canai. The air was cool, the morning fog was still lifting, and it was the perfect way to watch the town slowly come to life.

My visit to the Cameron Highlands was very low key and I was happy to hang out in the town and go on leisurely walks, but if you’re looking for a more active stay, there are plenty of tours to take.

These include visits to the  Mossy Forest , the Boh Tea Plantation , the Strawberry Farm , the Butterfly Garden , and if you happen to be in town at the right time of year, you can even go on a forest hike in search of the rafflesia – the largest flower in the world!

On another note, I do have to warn you that getting to Tanah Rata may make you a little queasy . It’s a long winding journey to make it up into the highlands; the roads are narrow, and sometimes it feels like you’re playing chicken with the oncoming buses . If you get motion-sickness (and even if you generally don’t!), you still may want to consider taking some Gravol before you board the bus.

Where I stayed:  

The place I stayed in was pretty dumpy, so unfortunately I can’t give a first hand recommendation for Tanah Rata.

What would I change?

• More beach time! When I was first planning my month in Malaysia , I had grand plans to make it over to the Perhentian Islands, which are located just off of the northeastern side of the mainland. However, in the end, my travels ended up concentrating on the west side of the mainland and getting all the way across felt like a bit of a hassle. I wish I had paid for a flight, but at that time I was still in backpacker mode thinking I couldn’t splurge on domestic flights…I missed out on some of Malaysia’s most pristine beaches. Womp, womp.
• Not making time for the Taman Negara! What was I thinking not making time to go to the jungle?! Again, at the time it seemed like too long of a journey (2-3 hours each way) to go just for the day, and I thought there would be plenty of other opportunities to visit the jungle…so I put it off.
• Not having enough time to visit Malaysian Borneo. While I would have loved to visit Malaysian Borneo, I thought hopping over would have been a bit rushed. If I come back to Malaysia again, this one is a high priority!
• Less time in Kuala Lumpur. Yes, Kuala Lumpur has plenty to offer in terms of attractions, however, I think I overstayed in the city by spending 10 days there. In retrospect, 5 would have been plenty. If you’re not a big city person, I think it’s worth swapping a few days out of KL for more time in a quiet town like Tanah Rata or even beach time in Langkawi or the Perhentians.

Have you been to Malaysia? What destinations would you recommend and why?

44 Comments

This post brings me back!

I also went to Restoran Kapitan and Kassim Mustafa Nasi Kandar and ohhh man, it was SO amazing! I don’t think I’ve ever had (or ever will) have better Indian food… garlic naan, mango lassi and butter chicken was unreal, I was literally licking the plate! Did you manage to get to Mustafa for their rumoured midnight lamb roast?

Next time I’ll for sure have to make it to Melaka & the Cameron Highlands/Tana Rata – places I missed while in Malaysia. We did make it to the Perhentian Islands and to Taman Negara but I have to say they weren’t as budget friendly as I’d hoped and I desperately missed the delicious cheap food from KL & Georgetown while I was there.

Malaysia really surprised me by how much I enjoyed myself, it really is such a beautiful place (and it was probably my #1 favourite country in terms of delicious food!). Thanks for sharing 🙂

Oh welldone mate..by reading your writeup i must say you have been to places where any visitors would want to know. Hope this will help others to plan thier itinerary as well. Love from malaysia..

thanks for loving my country! please help yourself to revisit again and again 🙂

I like how you added a ‘What I would Change’ section – often hearing what people do wrong, or what they’d do differently, is just as helpful planning a trip as advice or recommendations on what to do!

I haven’t been but even so, I bet I would agree with what you said about 5 days in the city only. I’m never into the biggest cities and usually enjoy jungle/desert/beach (anything else!) lol

Just come back from Malaysia and you realise how much there still to see, do and most importantly, eat! I loved Georgetown especially Little India although we always went to a Thali place called NR Sweets I think where we would get burfi for pudding or there was an amazing dosa place called Krishna something too.

Lovely 🙂 We made it this year only to Malaysian Borneo, which I highly recommend to all who are into wildlife. We spent three weeks in Sabah and enjoyed it, although it’s a bit pricy there compared to Thailand or the Philippines. ps: checked out your post about Mt. Batur recently… getting ready for climbing tomorrow! Thanks for info, we didn’t know you need to have your own torch, so at least we made sure they’ll provide some. Cheers!

Great post… All similar highlights to my own experience of those destinations. I totally agree with you about KL… I have been there many times to visit family and enjoy the food, but Malaysia has so many other great places worth using your time to visit. I went to Taman Negara, the Perhentians and Tioman island too during my 4 months travelling in Malaysia last year. All worth a visit but really I found Borneo the absolute highlight… And so different to Peninsular Malaysia. If your interested here’s a short summary of my time in Malaysia: http://www.tiggerbird.com/2014/01/malaysia-roundup-so-much-variety.html

Great read! I just got back from KL and I loved it.. Next time though, I want to go to Penang!

Let me know if you ever make it out to Korea! 🙂

This is super useful! I went to Malaysia in 2009, but only spent about two weeks there in total. I visited all these places, except the Cameroon Highlands, and hopefully, if things go to plan, my partner and I will be heading to Malaysia by the end of this year or the beginning of next. Exciting!

I only went to Malaysia for a few days and it was not enough time! I saw Kuala Lumpur and took a day trip to Melaka. I wish I would have spent more time there! One day was definitely not enough. I know I’ll be going back to Malaysia. There’s so much more to see.

Ah, I absolutely loved Malaysia. I didn’t know much about it before I went but I ended up going to the same places you did and I fell in love with each city and town I visited (even KL!). I completely agree that missing out on the Perhentian Islands is one of my great regrets. I’ve heard it’s absolute paradise … Next time!

If you’re traveling overland from Thailand, 1. Start with Penang, go over to Langkawi if you like. 2. Then take the intercity train to Ipoh, see Gua Tempurung. Do Cameron Highlands. 3. Bus or train to KL for a couple of days. 4. Bus to Melaka. 5. Bus to the KLIA2 airport* to take a domestic flight to Kuala Terengganu. Go to the islands. 6. Bus or train to Kelantan for the culture. 7. Flight out to KL.

*Or, flight to Borneo or any other places. If you book early, AirAsia or Tiger Airways can be quite cheap.

We are about to embark on a year long trip and I have been struggling to find an itinerary for Malaysia. Your post is extremely useful. Plan to stay at a couple of the places you recommend. I have just started to blog and did not realise how time consuming it can be!

10 days in KL? I’m not surprised as the city has so much to offer to budget travelers. I can’t wait to make it there in 2015! Great plan!

Well, Don’t worry Audrey. I didn’t make time for Melaka. This is a great list of things to do and see. I love Malaysia, too!

Nice itinerary! Malaysia is a great place to visit, especially for budget travelers. I agree with your opinion of KL: fascinating city with lots to see and do (check out the Islamic Arts Museum — vastly underrated), but 5 days is plenty. I’d suggest cutting a few days from the time you allow for Melaka and Penang, too. With the extra days, you could easily visit Ipoh, Redang, or — as you mentioned — Kota Bharu and the Perhentian Islands. Ipoh is just south of Penang and Kota Bharu, the gateway to the islands, is a few hours to the east.

I mostly visit KL in 3-4 day bursts now as I find I get bored pretty quickly. But I’ve been there a dozen times or so and really I’m just visiting to eat my favourite foods! We hang out in Batu Ferringhi in Penang for most of the year. It’s easy to visit tonnes of other places when we get itchy feet and we are close to the beach, and again, all that amazing food! Thanks for the roundup – I’ll have to add Tanah Rata to my list of places to visit next!

Totally agree with you about 10 days being too long in KL. We spent a week the first time we went, because our impression was that it was very cosmopolitan (based on the Petronas). I’d say 3 or 4 days is plenty. If you do make it to Malaysian Borneo, I really recommend Paganakan Dii. It’s an amazing place in the middle of the jungle, not too far from the Orangutang Sanctuary. It’s one of the most unique, beautiful and affordable places we’ve stayed in the whole world. 🙂 And also to book in advance for the trip to Palau Selingaan for the Turtle Sanctuary. Only about 50 people are allowed to stay overnight on the island and watch the mother turtle laying her eggs. Well worth it.

I’m definitely more of a beach person or a forest person than a city person (in terms of travel). I think a city has to have enough things for me to do, or to be unique enough, for me to not get bored with it.

What don’t I love about Malaysia – love KL and don’t think 10 days is too much. Love Borneo and could spend a whole month there. My parents love Melacca… So it’s on the to do list as is Cameron Highlands. Perhentians is amazing and we’re going back for 9 nights in August… Can’t wait. As we live in Australia flights to KL in their big sales that happen about twice are year are the cheapest overseas destinations for us. They were about $300 return from Sydney to KL for our upcoming trip.

Sounds like a good itinerary. I am glad to see that Malaysia has so much to offer. I didn’t realize that it had such an influence of Chinese culture.

Love your pics! Have not been to Malaysia yet but think will be going in the next few years. Will definitely refer to this post when planning my trip.

Wow! This is super in-depth! Malaysia sounds like an absolutely incredible place.

<3 Daryl Unlost New Post: What Does Success Mean To You?

Looks like a realllllly exciting trip. I need to finally get over to Malaysia at some point. Maybe for Southeast Asia round two =) Have fun!!!

I’ve never been to Melaka, but someday I hope to make it. Penang has some pretty amazing beaches, though. You have to go to the Penang National Park–there’s a “fishing village” at the entrance of the park, and you can either hike out a couple miles or hire a boat for a group of people. Turtle Beach and Monkey Beach are the most famous ones but they’re still secluded enough to not be crazy busy. Also, the Tanjung Bungah night market has the best Char Koay Teow in Penang. I lived there for almost 5 years so I can get a little crazy waxing eloquent over the joys of Penang. 🙂

Hey don’t be TOO bummed about missing the Perhentians. I went to Kecil, “the backpacker-y one” and it was unfortunately nothing too impressive to me. Other absolutely love it, I find the people who did, weren’t avid travelers like you and I, and hadn’t seen some of the spectacular beaches elsewhere like in Thailand or Indo. The beaches were OK. There was quite a bit of rubbish around, which was the biggest downfall.

The one thing that saved the Perhentians for me was the snorkel trip. It was some of the best snorkeling I have done in SE Asia to date apart from the Gili’s and a few Thai islands 🙂 I got to swim above some black-tip reef sharks… So cool!!! (PS- They were tiny sharks, otherwise this might have been moved to the complaint category, any bigger and I would have lost it!lol)

I love your post about Malaysia! I’m actually from KL and I couldnt agree more about staying there for 10 days is more than enough. Other places I would recommend are fishing villages around Kuala Selangor or Pangkor island. They have some pretty good seafood dishes and it’s not really the typical touristy beach people usually like but it gives you a lot of culture. Other places you can consider visiting is Taiping. It’s a modest town rich in history. Thank you for visiting and I hope you’re coming back soon!

I just spent a month in Malaysia, doing a lot of the same places. I loved it there. Redung Island was also amazing! One of the best beaches I’ve ever been to.

Ahhh you just made me miss my other home in Melacca! I haven’t been for ages but I wish I could stroll along Jonker street tonight. I also love looking up at the architecture on nearby Heeren Street.

This is a fabulous itinerary, but I agree with you about less time KL, and finding time for Malaysian Borneo, it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the world I’ve ever been to.

I spent my life in Malaysia. And its amazing to read how others are passionate and excited about where I’m based. Feeling slightly shameful myself that I haven’t even go to Cameron myself.. all because I really afraid of the whinny roads up the hill. Erm for beaches, I truly recommend kapalai and semporna in sabah, we call it Malaysia’s Maldives. Heaven. I went to perhentian kecil myself, I do agree it’s a little bit dirty. But you really have to do the island hopping and snorkeling !! It’s very backpacker friendly and all you need to do is enjoy yourself. I absolutely love melaka and penang. Both rich in culture and really good food. If you end up yourself at Kuala Lumpur, and willing to splurge a little, I recommend the restaurants at the troika, a building next to KLCC. You get to enjoy quality food with klcc view. Have fun and hope you guys have a great time in Malaysia!!

Ahh so glad I found this – we just booked our tickets to Malaysia and I’m lost on what to do and where to stay. This is so helpful! Can’t wait to go!

Lovely places, wonderful Malaysia! I miss Malaysia – would love to visit it more thoroughly in the future 🙂

I don’t know if i can convey how much I appreciate your experience, knowledge and insight. In a few months I’ll be headed to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Sri Lanka; reading your experiences are such a great positive addition to my confidence. Much love and thanks, girlfriend.

Thanks for sharing. I went to Sabah, Malaysia before and now, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is my next destination.

Hi im from Malaysia, if you have anything to ask about the country, i will help you as far as i can. My email [email protected]

Hi..i from penang..love to read your post about my place..if u come again dont forget to visit my burger stall..nice of burgers..

help…i want to visit malaysia for 1 month, do i have to get visa. im from philippines.

Hey there, I actually grew up in Sabah or the Borneo side of Malaysia but currently working in KL. So yes, I really agree that 10 days is more than enough for KL. If you have a chance, do visit Malaysian Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak), the amount of things to do and see there are endless. For example, you can go for island hopping at the coast of Sabah or climb Mt Kinabalu which takes about 2 days. I would also recommend a visit to Mulu Caves in Sarawak.

PS: As a Malaysian, I must say we really do take pride in our food, so I am really glad you enjoyed it 🙂

Hi… I’m from Malaysia. 🙂 I’d like to thank you for the wonderful post about my country. And thank you to fellow commenters over here too for all the compliments you have given on my country.

Sounds like you had a good time. I am going with my friends to Malaysia this August and your itinerary is fabulous. I’ll try to follow most of things which are recommended here.

Great article! totally agree with you that you should have spent less time in KL and found out more to do in places like Arau, Alor Setar, Johor, Langkawi even Tioman Islands. You should have visited a lot of night markets too…

Me and my wife are avid travellers and we have been to amazing places in Malaysia. The benefit we get is my brother is Malaysia based so we get first hand knowledge and tips. I have written extensively about our trips in Malaysia but yet there is so much food, attractions and places to write about…

Next to Thailand, Malaysia, in my opinion, has some of the best cuisines in Asia!

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Globetrotter

01 Mar 2023 - 4 min read

Itinerary & Budget: 7D 6N in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia. This country is known for its multicultural society; many people like to see the country. Also, it boasts many best natural and historical sites to visit.

In Malaysia, you can find many activities to do. But, for your maximum enjoyment, plan your Malaysia itinerary for 1 week. Here is a simple way to enjoy Malaysia and budget expenses when you spend your holiday there. Check the Malaysia travel itinerary 7 days and 6 nights down below!

Day 1, Go to Kuala Lumpur

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The first thing to do is to enter Malaysia through its entrance, the city of Kuala Lumpur. Book and select your best flight from your country. When you arrive at the airport, search and choose a budget hotel room that you can get starting from only MYR 171 per night.

After putting in your baggage at the hotel, prepare for your first destination on this one-week trip. Start your first thing in Malaysia by going to Petaling street. Discover many goods at the lowest price, including handicrafts and souvenirs. Spend your whole first day in Petaling and wait till night to witness the country’s Chinatown vibes. Explore, hop to cool bars, and drink cocktails to end your first day.

Day 2, Explore KL’s Most Iconic Landmarks

Start your day two adventure in Malaysia and visit Kuala Lumpur’s iconic landmarks. There are many places to visit, but surely you will not miss the most iconic, namely KL Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers.

The KL Tower, or the 7th-tallest tower in the world, features unforgettable experiences of iconic landmarks. Book a ticket to enter KL Tower to enjoy a bird's-eye view from the open observation deck. From up above, witness the stunning 360-degree views of Kuala Lumpur.

Then, go to Petronas Twin Towers and have selfies with it as the background. If you want to observe the view of the tallest twin towers in the world by purchasing a ticket for its observation deck visit. Some tips, the KL tower is more enjoyable during the daytime, while the sunset view from Petronas twin towers will blow your mind. If you have some free time, visit the Masjid Negara and Merdeka Square.

Day 3, Visit the Giant Hindi God Statue & Batu Cave

On day 3, prepare yourself to go to the famous Batu Caves. From KL Sentral Station, take a 50-minute trip for less than MYR 3, and you will arrive there. Or, if you want to, you can go by taxi.

The heritage site consists of three 400-year-old main caves. In front of the caves, you will witness a giant golden statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of War. It is not an ordinary statue, and if you follow the stair on it, you will discover the Temple Cave at the hilltop. To enjoy the attraction of the temple and visit the famous statue, you only need to spend around MYR 15 and spend a long day there, taking photos and admiring its pleasant scenery.

Day 4, Explore Penang

Because of its rich historical sites and yummy food, Penang is a must-visit destination in Malaysia. So, add this location to your Malaysia travel itinerary for seven days.

When you arrive in Penang, visit the Georgetown area, which has many historical buildings. There you can find stunning mosques and colonial buildings. Visit the iconic Pinang Peranakan Mansion to witness the mixture of England and Chinese architectural styles of historical buildings.

Then, discover Penang’s street food. You can explore and taste local and Peranakan dishes from several hawker places, such as Gurney Drive Hawker Centre and New Lane Hawker Centre.

Day 5, Enjoy Penang’s Nature

Visit the city's agricultural site on your fifth or second day in Penang. Discover the natural attractions around Penang countryside. Rent a bike and go to the beaches and spend some time there.

Once you are done with the natural wonder, wrap up your day with a visit to the Batu Ferringhi Night Market. Fill back your energy by eating a selection of amazing local foods. Then, head back to the hotel and rest before the last day of your Malaysia trip.

Read more: Itinerary & Budget: 13D 12N in Philippines

Day 6, Visit Kek Lok Si Temple

Spend your last minutes in Penang before returning to KL by visiting the Kek Lok Si Temple. It is Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temple, founded over 100 years ago. When you arrive, you will appreciate the incredible views, including its gigantic gardens, monasteries, sacred prayer halls, and the formation of temples.

Enjoy the sunset at Penang Hill, one of the city’s best-known tourist attractions located 821 meters above sea level. Take yourself on Penang Hill Railway, which costs MYR 30 to get to the top. But, it will be worth the money as you will catch the true beauty of the entire Penang on top.

Day 7, Fly Back Home

On this very last day, head back to KL. Spend your very last moment savoring Malaysia’s local food. Head to nearby hawkers and look for Malaysian delights, such as Nasi Lemak. Buy souvenirs and handicrafts for your loved ones before departing from the country.

Follow the tips for your Malaysia itinerary for 1 week of holiday with around two thousand MYR. For your accommodation, you can book from Traveloka, including flight tickets, hotel rooms, and many more, through the Traveloka website or application. From flights, hotel rooms, and other accommodations, you can buy, order, and pay for all your needs only in one place, Traveloka.

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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.

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1 Week Travel Itinerary for Malaysia and Singapore

Malaysia is pretty close to Singapore. It would only take 6-7 hours by train, 4-5 hours by bus, and 1 hour by plane. I went to Singapore from Johor Bahru, Malaysia by bus. Tickets ranging from RM35 to RM250, and then went back to Malaysia by plane that cost me 70USD with AirAsia.  

Crossing the Singapore-Malaysia border is kinda confusing even though it’s my second time traveling to Singapore from Malaysia.  One important thing that I learned from those trips was to keep my ticket with me even after I boarded the bus. You would need it in case they do a random inspection.

Would you rather watch than read this post? Click the “play” button!

Here’s a DIY (do-it-yourself) Travel Itinerary to Singapore and Malaysia:

Day 1 – batu caves.

Batu Caves Hindu temple is a famous landmark in Kuala Lumpur . You won’t miss the 140 feet golden structure of Lord Murugan once you passed the entrance. In order for you to see the 400 million years old limestones caves, you have to take the stairs with 272 steps.

Climbing the stairs is easy, the hardest part of it was the mischievous little monkeys along the way. One monkey took my water bottle from my hand and ran away like a thief! It was funny and scary at the same time.

Day 2 – Perdana Botanical Garden

Formerly known as the Perdana Lake Gardens, it is located at the Heritage Park in Kuala Lumpur. Originally, it was created as a recreational park then turned into a Botanical Garden. It’s nice to stroll around here coz of the nice landscaped gardens, the man-made lake, and the tiny Stonehenge replica — all for free!

Petronas Tower

“Identical towers, identical wonders.” This is probably one of the famous icons everybody would instantly recognize coz it used to be the tallest building in the world (now it’s Burj Khalifa in Dubai). Those skyscrapers towering 88 floors are Islamic-inspired and the buildings house the corporate headquarters of the Petronas Company and other offices.

This mall is located underneath Petronas Twin Towers. It is divided into three parts; Ampang Mall, Park Mall, and the new Ramlee Mall. There’s also a science discovery center called “Petrosains”  and an oceanarium called “Aquaria”.

Day 3  –  Putrajaya

Putrajaya is located in Selangor, about 25 km from Kuala Lumpur. It’s Malaysia’s federal administrative capital. Aside from handling the administrative functions of KL, lotsa tourists come here coz there’s a lot of attractions to see. What captured my attention was the bridges and the Marina Putrajaya with musical fountain and extreme water sports.

If you’re craving for local Malaysian cuisine, Jalan Alor is the perfect place to be. You can dare yourself to eat something exotic like frog porridge, pig innards bak kut teh, and braised chicken feet. But if you’re not too adventurous, you can still enjoy some seafood restaurants and Chinese hawker food that are really good.

This area is famous for pub crawling and after-hours entertainment. Popular bars and restaurants in KL can be found here. I like the buildings in Changkat coz it used to be a pre-war colonial shop-houses that were renovated and turned into pubs and western restaurants.

Day 4 – Resorts World Sentosa

Sentosa is a famous leisure destination and island resort getaway in Singapore . You can literally stay here for days without getting bored because there’s a lot to explore. People of all ages would surely enjoy attractions like the Universal studios, casinos, S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore Cable Car, Boardwalk, Merlion, Adventure Cove Park, Zipline Parks, etc.

Day 5 – Marina Bay Sands

If you’re the kind of person who appreciates great infrastructure, Marina Bay is the perfect spot for you. Marina Bay Sands’ famous swimming pool is the largest and the tallest rooftop infinity pool in the world. If you want to get a spectacular view of the city at night, go to the rooftop and take awesome pictures of the skyline.

Gardens by the Bay

This 101 hectares nature park is one of my favorite destinations in Singapore because I like the way they showcase tropical landscaping. I know it takes guts and skills to make those conservatories (flower dome and cloud forest), I can’t say anything but WOW… I’m very impressed.

Day 6 – Merlion Park

 This park is pretty close to other landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade (Theatres on the Bay), and Singapore flyer. They said that Merlion is a well-known marketing icon of Singapore.

It represents a mythical creature with the head of a lion and a body of a fish. Taking a photo with this Merlion is a must. Try to search “merlion selfies” and you’ll be surprised how creative people are in taking selfies with this icon. 🙂

Asian Civilisations Museum

You can find the history and ancestral culture of Singapore in this museum. Each gallery is organized according to their geographic location such as; China, Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and the Islamic world. There’s an entrance fee of 8SGD for foreigners and free admission for locals.

Day 7 – Singapore Flyer

This world’s largest observation wheel gives you a 360-degree view of the city. On a clear day, you can also see a panorama view of Malaysia and Indonesia. It’s kinda expensive though, 33SGD for a short 30-minute ride.

Jurong Bird Park

This park has almost all bird species in the world. You can also find the world’s largest walk-in lory flight aviary at 3,000 square meters and over 9 stories high. Kids will surely love the fun exhibits, interactive shows, bird feeding, and tram ride.

So there you have it, my suggested DIY travel itinerary for 1 week in Singapore and Malaysia. I stayed with some friends in Malaysia and Singapore and they made my trip easier coz they know their way around the city. If you have any questions, feel free to write it down using the comment form below. Thank you! 🙂

You can also find me on Youtube , Facebook ,  Twitter,  and  Instagram

What’s your take on this post? Let us know by leaving a comment down below!

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover” – Mark Twain

KT is a digital nomad who quit her job, bought a ticket somewhere, got a tan, fell in love with mother nature and she would never return to the normal life that society dictates. You can also connect with her on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @pinaynomad

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One week itinerary for penang – malaysia travel guide 2024.

Table of Contents

An action packed adventurous 7 day itinerary for Penang including trekking, beaches, amazing food and culture

If you are planning a trip to Penang here is THE BEST one week itinerary for Penang 2024. Up to date, fresh and accurate information including all of the best MUST NOT MISS attractions. 

Penang is a beautiful island off the west coast of peninsular Malaysia. Whether you want beaches, wildlife, jungle trekking, city exploration, temples or amazing street food, Penang has it all. 

We are experienced travelers who have lived in Penang and we have expert travel information on the best attractions and local secrets that Penang has to offer. In this itinerary for Penang we help you get to grips with all of the best things to do in Penang and guide you through your trip step by step. We love to equip other travellers to have epic adventures. 

Penang deserves its reputation for its amazing food, its beautiful fusion of cultures and excellent natural scenery. There really are so many amazing things to do in Penang . Penang has many of the exciting attractions of a tropic island, combined with the convenience and comfort of a well developed island. Penang is very well connected. It is linked to the mainland by a couple of long road bridges. You can also take a ferry to Langkawi from Penang. Penang also has an airport offering domestic and international connections. 

SHORT OF TIME? Don’t miss our 3 day Penang Itinerary

What is the best area to stay in Penang? Don’t miss our guide on THE BEST areas to stay in Penang

How to use this itinerary for Penang

All of the activities in this itinerary for Penang are based on Penang island (Pulau Pinang). This itinerary is ideal for anyone staying in either GeorgeTown or Batu ferringhi. Several days require travel round the island and you will need to do a little travel wherever you are staying. If you are on a budget this can be done by bus. If you want convenience there are plenty of taxis in Penang. Alternatively consider car rental for convenience. 

This itinerary for Penang is very adaptable: It is easy to switch around the days and do things in a different order. There are also several more active trekking days which could be substituted for time relaxing by the pool with a drink. We have recommended a one week itinerary as we think this is the optimum amount of time to enjoy most of the epic activities and attractions that Penang has to offer. If you have more time, you could easily slow the pace. 

Map of your one week itinerary for Penang

Here is an interactive map of the ONE WEEK itinerary for Penang. Click on the pins for more details…

One week itinerary for Penang overview

Day 1 George town walking tour and Newlane Hawkers 

Day 2 Kek Lok Si Temple, Air Itam and Penang hill for sunset

Day 3 Entopia, Teluk Bahang Forest Eco Park and Batu Ferringhi night market

Day 4 Botanical gardens and Penang hill secret rest station

Day 5 National park trek to turtle beach

Day 6 Morning market, the Tropical Spice Gardens and the Tropical Fruit Farm

Day 7 escape theme park and waterpark.

Note: before you plan your trip be aware that some venues may be closed on public holidays. There are many public holidays in Malaysia so plan carefully. Escape Theme Park and Waterpark (Day 7 of this itinerary) is closed on Mondays. 

One week itinerary for Penang – The BEST places to stay

This itinerary for Penang is mostly focussed on the north of the island where there are more attractions. Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi are the best places to stay if you are following this itinerary for Penang. 

We have selected a range of great accommodation options in Penang. We have tried to include something for everyone. We spend loads of time researching to make sure we find the best places to stay. 

It’s a bit cheeky but if you plan to stay in any of these recommended hotels, please could you use our links to book them as we get a little commission at no extra cost to you (it’s the big boys at booking.com that take the hit, not you or us) This helps keep us on and our family on the road writing blogs to help you adventure!

TRAVELLING WITH KIDS? Don’t miss our guide on THE BEST Penang Family Hotels

LOOKING FOR A SPLASH OF LUXURY? Check out THE BEST 5 star hotels in Penang

LOOKING FOR SOME CULTURE? Don’t miss these amazing Georgetown Heritage Hotels

What are prices like in Penang?

This itinerary for Penang should be relatively cheap as Penang is relatively cheap as a travel destination. 

Activities tend to be relatively cheap in Malaysia. Be aware that many places in Malaysia implement a dual pricing system – so it will be cheaper for Malaysians than foreign visitors. This can make some travellers feel frustrated or discriminated against. The best way to avoid disappointment is to be aware of this culture and recognise that activities, accommodation and food are generally much cheaper in Malaysia and so you are likely to save money on your trip overall. 

Penang is generally a very cheap location for an amazing family holiday. Here are some example of prices in Penang to help you plan and budget for your Penang trip:

• Street food is generally very cheap. Most dishes range from RM 5 – RM 15 depending on the size of the dish and the ingredients. Drinks are also generally relatively cheap. If you are at a hawker centre or restaurant you can generally buy drinks for RM 1 – RM 3.
• Western food is more expensive than local food, but will still probably be cheaper than western food in western countries. You can generally find nice western dishes ranging from RM 25 – RM 60 depending on the restaurant and the dish. 
• Accommodation is much cheaper than many western countries. However, accommodation in Malaysia is a little more expensive than other southeast asian countries (such as Thailand and Cambodia). Cheap rooms in hostels (fan not A.C.) start at around RM40. Most mid-range rooms (air conditioning) cost around RM 100 – RM 150. 
• Penang is connected by a good local bus system and you will generally pay less than RM 5 even for long journeys. 
• The best way to get taxis is Malaysia is to use the Grab App . Journeys around Penang normally cost between RM5 for short local journeys up to RM60 to get across the island. 
• Long distance buses are also very cheap and comfortable in Malaysia. For example, it typically costs around RM 40 to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur (around 360km and 5-6 hours)
• Alcohol tends to be less available and expensive relative to local prices in Malaysia due to high taxation. Having said that, you can often find bars in hotels, cities and tourist hotspots.   

One week itinerary for Penang BUDGET tips

Here are a few budget tips to help you save money in the itinerary for Penang… 

• If you are really travelling on a budget be prepared to share a room where possible. Contact your accommodation in advance to check if there will be any additional charges for having a child staying in your room. 
• Eat street food rather than western food. The street food in Penang is cheap, delicious and readily available. You can try Indian, Chinese and Malay food in most towns. We have tried to recommend some great places to eat in this itinerary for Penang
• It is not normal to barter for food and drinks. However we do recommend that you barter at the night market. You can also try bartering for accommodation if you are on a serious budget. You can barter for taxis, however many drivers in Penang use a taxi meter. 
• It is possible to do this itinerary for Penang by public transport. We have given all of the public transport details in the main itinerary. 

How much will this itinerary for Penang cost? 

We estimate that this itinerary for Penang is likely to cost around £200 – £600 depending on how much of a budget you are on.

The following overview should give you a rough idea of how much it will cost to follow this ONE WEEK itinerary for Penang. These prices do not include visa costs or transport costs to and from Penang.

What activities do you need to pre-book in this itinerary for Penang?

You do not need to pre-book any of the activities on this itinerary unless you wish to arrange tours for a larger group or you wish to arrange a private tour. 

We do recommend pre-booking the ESCAPE Theme Park and Waterpark because the prices increase closer to the date of visit. If you pre-book the Furnicular Railway, you can buy fast lane tickets to reduce waiting time.

Here is a summary of the activities that you can pre-book online in advance for this itinerary: 

Day 1 George town walking tour and Newlane Hawkers

The first day of this itinerary for Penang starts with a self guided walking tour of Georgetown. This is the perfect way to acclimatize and get your bearings… and of course try some of the famous Penang street food. 

Pack a day bag and dress in light comfortable clothing with comfortable walking shoes for this Penang city tour. George town is a beautiful UNESCO world heritage site with temples, street art, street food, colonial buildings and its own little India. The following walking tour is a loop (approximately 5km) including many of the main attractions of George Town. The total time for the loop will take 3 – 5 hours if you stop and enjoy each attraction. We put Fort Cornwallis at the start of the loop but you could start at any point that is convenient for you. If you visit the destination in order (from any start point) you will minimize the distance you need to walk:  

• Fort Cornwallis

Visit Fort Cornwallis (North East corner of George Town). This is a colonial fort with nice views of the jetty and little India. Opposite Fort Cornwallis is the Penang Trick Art museum. 

• The Peranakan Mansion 

The Peranakan Mansion is a striking ornate Mansion with antiques and ornaments celebrating the vibrant  and beautiful culture of the Baba’s and Nonya’s. This is a great way to learn about the rich cultural history and diversity of Penang. 

• St George’s Church and Goddess of Mercy Buddhist Temple

As you walk up Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling you will see St George’s church and The Goddess of Mercy Buddhist temple on your right. When you get to the Goddess of Mercy temple, turn left along Lubuh China (China street) walk two blocks and then turn right and walk up Lebuh King (King Street) and walk through little India. 

• Little India (Jalan Chulia and Lebuh King)

As you walk through little india keep your eye out for excellent indian food. Walk up Lebuh King until you hit Jalan Chulia (Chulia street). Kapitans is based on Jalan Chulia and serves amazing tandoori and Indian food. Also keep your eye open for shops selling roti (Indian bread) and dahl. You will also see shops selling Indian Spices and ornaments. You can also see Hindu temples in the area. Don’t miss the Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple on Lebuh Queen (Queen Street).

• Yap Kongsi Temple 

From little India walk up to the Yap Kongsi Temple past the Kapitans Mosque. Yap Kongsi is a small and very beautiful Chinese temple. If you are interested in a bike rickshaw, they normally wait near this temple. Expect to pay around RM30 – RM40 for a 1 hour rickshaw bike tour. Bartering is acceptable. 

• Famous Penang street art

Keep an eye out for the famous Penang street art. The awesome pictures are found on buildings along Muntri Street, Weld Quay, Lebuh Leith, Armenian Street, Ah Quee Street and more. Once you have explored the street art walk southbound on Armenian street until you meet the coat road (Pengkalan Weld) where you can explore the jetties and settlements that overlook the ocean. 

• Jetties and the Hean Boo Thean Kuan Yin Temple

The jetties and settlements run for around 0.5km south of the Penang ferry terminal. These jetties (wooden piers) were built for trade and transportation by Chinese migrants who moved to Malaysia early in the 19th century to trade. Don’t miss the Hean Boo Thean Kuan Yin Buddhist Temple (on the of Pintasan Pengkalan 1). 

• Komtar tower and shopping mall

After exploring the jetties, walk up Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong towards Komtar tower. Komtar tower is a central shopping and transportation hub in George Town. You will see Komtar shopping mall on your left and Komtar tower behind it. If you enjoy shopping take a little time to explore the Komtar shopping mall. At the end of Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong turn right onto Penang road and then immediately turn right again on to Lebuh Keng Kwee.

• Penang road street food (Lebuh Keng Kwee)

During the day Lebuh Keng Kwee street has lots of small streetside stalls (hawkers) and small cafes serving Malaysian Chinese food. Don’t miss Assam Laksa (spicy noodle soup with fish), Chendul (a sweet shaved ice dessert with coconut) and char koay teow (Malaysian fried noodles with vegetables and seafood). After enjoying some Chinese Malaysian treats, keep walking up Penang road (away from Komtar) until the road splits. Go right along Leith street until you see the Blue Mansion on your right. 

• Blue Mansion (Cheong Fatt Tze)

The blue mansion was built by an influential Chinese businessman and politician called Cheong Fatt Tze, who aimed to celebrate and preserve the beautiful Chinese culture and heritage. Construction started in 1896. Cheong Fatt Tze used the finest materials and builders to construct the blue mansion, which became an iconic attraction of George Town. The blue mansion now offers boutique accommodation, fine dining and tours of the property. You can now do daily tours in English at 11am and 2pm. The cost is RM 25 for adults and RM 12.50 for children. You can book tickets for the Blue Mansion in advance.

At the end of the walking tour you could also drop by Upper Penang Road (on the junction of Penang road and Jalan Sultan Ahmed Shah) where you will find several bars offering outdoor seating areas. 

In the evening go to Newlane Hawkers near Komtar to try some amazing Penang street food. Newlane Hawkers serves a range of Chinese and Malay street food with outdoor seating. It is open from around 4pm – 10pm (excluding Wednesdays). Alternatively check out the New World Park Hawker Centre in Georgetown. This provides a wide range of hawker food and indoor seating. 

Day two of this itinerary for Penang involves a visit to a spectacular hill temple and also the summit of Penang hill. This is an active and adventurous day on the itinerary for Penang. 

Air Itam is a suburban district to the southwest of George Town and located at the base of Penang hill (Bukit Bendera). Air Itam means “black water” in Malay and is named after the Air Itam dam. Air Itam is a frequent starting point for trekking up Penang hill, an amazing destination for street food, especially famous for assam laksa and also the home to the base station of the Penang mountain railway (gondola). 

Kek Lok Si temple (Hokkien “Supreme Joy” temple) is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and dates back to 1891. The temple is made up of various prayer halls, pagodas, courtyards, pavilions and statues of Buddha and Chinese deities.

Entry to the temple is free and it costs RM2 to enter the pagoda. Don’t miss the impressive Temple of Supreme Bliss (Guan Yin Statue) a short distance up the road behind Kek Lok Si temple. 

After exploring Kek Lok Si temple try some of the incredible Air Itam street food. Many hawker stalls can be found near the market on the intersection of Jalan Paya Terubung and Jalan Pasar (where the bus stops). It is possible to get a Grab taxi from the top of Kek Lok Si (by the Guan Yin statue) to the funicular railway station for around RM5-6. 

If you get a chance you can also see the Bat Cave Temple (located around 1km from the funicular railway station in Air Itam). Sadly the temple building has been destroyed by a fire. However, it is still possible to visit the cave itself and see the bats hanging out there. 

Visit Penang Hill

Penang Hill is the largest hill in Penang. Covered in beautiful 130 million year old rainforest and affording panoramic views over Penang island. This really is a must do activity.

We recommend taking the Penang Hill Railway (Funicular railway) up Penang hill to see the sunset which is around 6pm-7pm all year round: Tickets can be purchased on arrival at the Penang hill lower station (in Air Itam). Trains run through the day and into the evening. The last train leaves the top station around 11pm in the evening. 

Adult standard ticket (13-59 years old)

• RM15 one way
• RM30 return 
• Fast lane RM45 one way 
• Fast lane RM80 return 

Children’s standard ticket (4-12 years old)

• RM8 one way
• RM15 return
• Fast lane RM20 one way 
• Fast lane RM40 return 

Alternatively if you are feeling energetic and adventurous you can walk up Penang Hill from Air Itam. There are several trekking routes. Be prepared that the shortest trekking route is around 3km and mostly up a steep gradient. It is likely to take 1-2 hours to trek up Penang hill even for relatively fit trekkers.

We strongly recommend staying on marked trails and having a hiking map or a map function enabled on your phone. Bring plenty of water, good trekking shoes (trainers are ideal) and light loose clothing. One of the shortest trekking routes up Penang hill from Air Itam starts at the end of Jalan Lintang.

Visit The Habitat Penang Hill

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the Habitat Penang Hill

The Habitat Penang Hill is an eco complex situated at the summit of Penang Hill. The Habitat features a range of installations designed to help you connect with and immerse yourself in the beautiful ancient Penang jungle. Don’t miss the Curtis Crest tree top walk; a circular arial canopy walkway that affords stunning 360 views of the beautiful Penang island and jungle canopy; a stunning spot to see the sunset.

Various trails, observation decks and huts enable you to enjoy the flora and fauna of the rainforest. There is even a small zipline course called “The Flight of the Colugo” 3 ziplines, 1 abseil and a rope bridge (RM105 per person 9.30am – 4pm, limited slots available so it is advisable to book in advance). 

Standard adult ticket RM60

Standard child or senior citizen RM40

Family pass (2 adults and 2 children) RM160

• Curtis Crest treetop walk
• The Langur Way canopy walk
• The trail and gardens

Email: [email protected]

How do you get to Air Itam from George Town? 

We recommend taking a bus or taxi to Air Itam as it is too far to walk from George Town. You can take bus number 203 from the Jetty to Air Itam. Bus 203 runs along Lebuh Light past Fort Cornwallis and then turns left up Jalan Penang. In Air Itam the bus stops near the intersection of Jalan Paya Terubung and Jalan Pasar in Air Itam. From here it is around a 1.5km walk to the Kek Lok Si temple and around 1.3km to the base station of the mountain railway. Alternatively a Grab taxi from Georgetown to Air Itam should cost around RM15 each way. 

Day 3 Entopia butterfly farm, Teluk Bahang forest ECO park and batu ferringhi night market

This day of the itinerary for Penang is designed to immerse you in the beautiful biodiversity of Penang in a relaxed and fun way.

Day 3 of this itinerary for Penang starts with a visit to the magical Entopia. The Entopia Penang butterfly farm is a beautiful indoor collection of plants, trees, butterflies and other insects. Don’t miss our FULL guide on Entopia .

They have magical winding trails, ponds and even indoor waterfalls. This is the perfect way to learn about the beautiful and unique diversity of Penang. Insects and butterflies are free in the large indoor conservatory. They also have an indoor education centre called Cocoon – the perfect place to learn about the wonderful and bizarre world of creepy crawlies. 

Entopia is open from 9am – 6pm every day of the week except Wednesdays (last admissions at 5pm). Opening hours may vary with public holidays (Malaysia has a lot of them so make sure you keep an eye on this!). The best time to visit Entopia Penang is on weekdays (not public holidays) when it will be much quieter. 

Entrance tickets to Entopia Penang cost RM69 (around £14 or $18) for adults (Adult tickets are for 13 – 59 year olds). Entrance tickets for children and senior citizens cost RM49 (around £10 or $13). Children’s tickets are required for 4-10 year olds. Senior citizens are 60 years and over.

You can book tickets online https://www.entopia.com/

Entopia Penang are currently offering discounted tickets at present. At the discounted rate: Entrance tickets to Entopia Penang cost RM55 (around £11 or $14) for adults. Entrance tickets for children and senior citizens cost RM39 (around £8 or $11). 

Top tip: Discounted tickets must be booked at the ticket office on arrival and they are NOT available for online bookings. 

After exploring Entopia, check out the Teluk Bahang Forest Eco Park (next to Entopia). This is a beautiful forest park with a kids playground and river. People use this river for bathing. The water is a little murky but is refreshingly cold. Some of the pools here are genuinely deep enough to swim. The location in a jungle valley makes this a stunning place for a refreshing dip. The Teluk Bahang Forest Eco Park is FREE to visit and is open all hours. They have some stalls selling food and drinks by the carpark. 

Finally, any good itinerary for Penang MUST include Batu Ferringhi. Visit the Batu Ferringhi night market. Batu Ferringhi is a village on the north coast of Penang and is one of the top spots of hotels and holiday makers in Penang. Batu Ferringhi is on the return bus journey route (between Teluk Bahang and George Town) and the journey from Teluk Bahang to Batu Ferringhi takes around 10 minutes by road. The night market runs along Batu Ferringhi Road (route 6) which is the main road through Batu Ferringhi. 

The night market runs every night of the week starting at around 6pm. Stalls sell fashion, art, gifts, some electrical goods, ornaments and food. If you are shopping in the night market we strongly recommend bartering – although it is worth being aware that some stalls will be unwilling to barter due to the hotel tourism in the area.

You can also find hawker food (such as long beach) but it is worth noting that this is aimed at tourists so the price is a little higher and the quality a little lower than other local food places. 

For an amazing Chinese local Hawker food experience try Viva which is located on route 6 in Tanjung Tokong on the way back to George Town. Or for amazing Malaysian Indian food try Sri Ananda Bawan in Tanjung Bungah, also located on route 6 on the way back to George Town.  

Day 4 of this itinerary for Penang is an active day of hiking from the botanical gardens. We recommend starting the hike early so you are not doing the challenging uphill sections in the hottest part of the day. This hike is likely to take 3-4 hours (depending on pace and stopping time). Bring good hiking shoes (trainers), plenty of water and snacks and loose fitting clothing. Some sections of the walk are exposed so consider sun protection.

If this itinerary for Penang is a bit too active just take a stroll in the Botanical Gardens and then head over to Gurney Plaza to enjoy the shops, restaurants and Air Conditioning!

Start by exploring the Botanical Gardens. These beautiful gardens are full of lush tropical foliage and wildlife. Many Macaque monkeys roam the botanical gardens. Keep your distance as they can be aggressive and don’t feed them or let them see any food. Keep your eye open for the more timid Dusky Leaf monkeys. These beautiful black monkeys are often seen playing higher in the jungle canopy. Keep your eye open for snakes on the trail and in the undergrowth. 

The trek to the Secret Rest Station:

Start from the moon gate on Jalan Kebun Bunga (this is a circular gate).  

• Go through the moon gate and follow the path leading up the hill. Follow the trail for around 1km up the steps (beware this is a long steep climb). When you get to the top of the steps don’t turn left down the hill – keep going straight on until you reach the rest station 5 (a further 200m)
• At the rest station (called Penang Hill Station 5) there are seats and shelter to rest. Locals often meet here to drink coffee and share snacks. 

• Once you have enjoyed the rest station, keep hiking along the trail. Although it is still up hill, it is not as steep.
• Follow the trail for around 2km and don’t turn off the main trail. There are some very beautiful views along this section. Towards the end of this section there are a few short downhill sections as you drop down towards the jeep track. 

• Once you reach the jeep track you can return to the botanical gardens by following the road back down the hill.

An alternative activity is to visit Gurney Plaza – this is a shopping mall with a range of clothing shops, fashion shops, restaurants and coffee shops. Gurney Plaza is not far from the Botanical Gardens. 

Day 5 National park trek to Turtle Beach

Day 5 for this itinerary for Penang involves a fun and challenging trek in the beautiful Penang National Park. There are two main beaches in the Penang National Park – Monkey Beach and Turtle Beach. The trail to Monkey Beach is in disrepair and is officially closed at present.

Today you will need a bag packed for a jungle adventure. Bring plenty of water and wear suitable clothes for a jungle adventure.

If you only have time to visit one beach we recommend the beautiful Turtle Beach.

The Penang National Park is a beautiful area of pristine coastal jungle located in the northwest corner of Penang island. We recommend being well equipped for an adventurous jungle trek. Wear good trekking shoes for some uneven and steep terrain. We recommend cool clothing, suncream and mosquito repellant. Consider bringing your swimming kit and a change of clothes. 

Bring plenty of water and food. There are no shops, cafes or restaurants in the national park itself and the village at the entrance to the national park (Teluk Bahang) only has a limited range of shops. 

Top tip: If you would like to visit turtle beach or monkey beach you can arrange boat trips from the Green Adventure Services tour agents office located at the national park entrance. 

Penang National Park entry permits

• There is an entrance fee of RM50 for non-Malaysians and RM10 for Malaysians.
• For children 3 – 12 years old it costs RM15 for mon-Malaysians and RM5 for Malaysians.
• Both Malaysian and Non-Malaysian Infants under 3 years old and Senior Citizens (60 years and older) are FREE.
• Student discounts available – bring a student card

A boat to monkey beach costs RM 100 (two ways). A boat to turtle beach costs RM 200 (two ways). Up to 10 people can share boats. These prices are pretty fixed, but it’s always worth trying to barter.

The National Park office is open for registration in the morning and for a few hours in the afternoon:

• Saturday – Thursday 8am – 1pm and 2pm – 4.30pm
• Fridays 8am – 12.15pm and 2.45pm – 4.30pm

TOP TIP: If you wish to take a boat to Turtle Beach and want to share the cost – ask other travellers when you arrive at the National Park to see if they would like to share a boat with you. Drivers will not organise groups – but there is nothing to stop you grouping with other travellers. You could also negotiate a price to stop at Monkey Beach on the way to Turtle Beach.  

How do you trek to Turtle beach?

Don’t miss our FULL guide on Turtle Beach Penang AND our FULL guide on Monkey Beach Penang

The trek from the Penang National Park office (in Teluk Bahang) to Turtle Beach (Pantai Kerachut) is around 3km and will take 1-2 hours depending on your pace and stops. The terrain is rough in sections (tree roots, logs and rocks on the trail) and there are also some steep sections. The hot, humid tropical Malaysian climate makes this trek reasonably challenging. 

The trekking route from the National Park office to Turtle Beach is well signed and easy to follow and can be done without a local guide: 

• Walk for 5 minutes along the well paved path (the sea is to your right)
• Cross the bridge and turn left immediately after the bridge
• Follow the path up into the jungle- it quickly becomes steep steps up a hill

• Keep following this path up the hill (don’t turn off to the right)
• The path then goes down hill, you will notice a left turn – don’t turn left
• Keep following the path to the bridge at the entrance to Turtle beach (Pantai Kerachut)
• You will see a meromictic lake to the left.

Turtle beach affords a beautiful west view of the Malacca Strait, ideal for sunsets over the ocean on a clear day. It is free to camp at turtle beach but the facilities are very basic so we recommend coming prepared.

The Turtle Sanctuary is open daily from 10am – 4.30pm and it is FREE to enter. The turtle sanctuary at Turtle Beach Penang protect turtle nesting, egg maturation and hatching. They protect baby turtles and release them safely back in to the ocean. You can see turtles at this sanctuary throughout the year (nesting and hatching season varies from year to year).

OH YEAH, and you may be interested in our guide to THE BEST beaches in Penang

What wildlife can you see in the Penang national park?

Penang national park has an excellent array of flora, fauna and wildlife. It is very common to see Macaque monkeys along the path that leads from the national park office into the national park. Keep your eye open for the more shy Dusky Leaf monkeys in the canopy along the coastal path that leads to monkey beach.

Tortoises can occasionally be seen along the jungle paths, especially the path between the national park entrance and turtle beach. 

If you are lucky you may also see the giant Asian Water Monitor lizards sunbathing on the rocks along the coast line (especially on the path that leads from the national park main entrance and then the path that leads towards monkey beach).

Depending on the season, you can also see turtles on turtle beach. You can see Green turtles (April – August) and Olive Ridley turtles (September – February).

How do you get to the Penang National Park by bus? 

Take Rapid bus number 101 from Georgetown to Teluk Bahang. In George Town, the Rapid 101 bus runs along Jalan Chulia past Kapitans. If you are taking the Rapid 101 bus on Jalan Chulia, buses to Teluk Bahang will be travelling in the direction away from the jetty. The journey from George Town to Teluk Bahang is around 20km and will take around 45 minutes. You can also do the journey by taxi. It is likely to cost RM30 – RM50 to travel from Georgetown to the Penang National park by Grab taxi and the journey will take around 40 minutes. 

This day of the itinerary for Penang involves a lot of travel. It is possible to do this by bus or taxi. If you have a rented car or bike this will be most convenient. 

Start with a visit to the Morning Fresh Market in Tanjung Bungah. This market is open daily from around 6am – 11am. We recommend visiting early (around 7am – 8am). The market sells fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and meat. Next to the market is a food center selling local breakfast dishes. This is a great place to experience the lovely morning atmosphere here. 

The Tropical Spice Gardens is a beautiful garden complex of trees, shrubs and tropical plants set amongst around 2km of winding pathways and waterways. A visit to the Tropical Spice Gardens is a truly multi sensory experience. The Spice Gardens are home to over 500 species of flora and fauna. They also offer a camping experience if you want to experience the jungle take on a new life by night.

Don’t miss the lovely beach across the road from the Tropical Spice Gardens.

For entrance to the gardens (no tour) adults tickets cost RM 25, children’s tickets cost RM 15 (4-12 years old) and family tickets cost RM 60 (2 adults and 2 children).

The Tropical Spice Gardens are open every day of the week (Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm and 

Friday-Sunday 9am-6pm) last admission one hour before closing. 

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the Tropical Spice Gardens

Finally visit the Tropical Fruit Farm. The tropical fruit farm is the perfect way to learn about some of the tropical fruits that are grown in Penang. We particularly enjoyed the scenery and the chance to try some of the fruits. The tropical fruit farm is located on the remote jungle road that connects Teluk Bahang and Balik Pulau. Tours are offered in English and run from 9am – 4.30pm (approximately 1 hour in length). You do not need to pre-book tours in advance. 

Guided farm tour (no fruit platter)

Tours cost RM 30 for an adult and RM 20 for children (5-12 years old). Children below 5 years old are FREE. 

Guided tour (including fruit platter)

If you wish to try the fruit platter and fruit juice at the end of the tour: Adults RM50 and children (5-12 years old) RM40 and under 5 years FREE. 

How do you get to the Tropical Fruit farm by public transport?

Take Rapid bus number 101 from Georgetown to Teluk Bahang. In George Town, the Rapid 101 bus runs along Jalan Chulia past Kapitans. If you are taking the Rapid 101 bus on Jalan Chulia, buses to Teluk Bahang will be travelling in the direction away from the jetty. The journey from George Town to Teluk Bahang is around 20km and will take around 45 minutes. In Teluk Bahang change bus to the 501, which runs from Teluk Bahang to Balik Pulau. The bus journey from Teluk Bahang to the tropical fruit farm will take roughly 30 minutes. To avoid getting stranded check with the driver about return bus times because this road is relatively quiet and remote.

The final day of this itinerary for Penang finishes with a high at ESCAPE. Pack swimming stuff, sun protection and clothes suitable for being active in the heat (remember trainers). Bring a water bottle (you can refill in the park for free). You can also bring your own food or use the A&Ws food outlets on the park (they sell fast food like fried chicken and waffles). 

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the ESCAPE adventure park Penang

The Escape Theme Park and Waterpark is a MUST DO on our itinerary for Penang. 

This is an incredible theme park with a wide range of swings, ropes courses, jump platforms and much more. Escape has activities for the whole family; their vision is to help people reconnect with their childlike adventurous and physical ambitions to play, swing and jump. They also have an incredible water park with pools, slides and water challenges. 

They also boast the World’s Longest Waterslide (1.1km in length) and taking around 4 minutes to travel at an average speed of around 10 mph AND The world’s longest Zip Coaster (1.1km in length). This is similar to a zipline except it is on a ridgid rail which winds through the beautiful jungle. 

There is SO MUCH to do at ESCAPE Penang – be prepared for a VERY fun and very tiring day! The park is very physical so wear clothing suitable for being active in the heat and remember sun protection. 

Situated in the jungle near Teluk Bahang, Escape also enables you to connect with the beautiful Penang nature, appreciating the jungle from a different angle. ESCAPE offer a camping experience called BASECAMP. This includes two days access to the park.  

Escape Penang is open from Tuesdays – Sundays 10am – 6pm (closed on mondays). You can purchase tickets online. 

The exact ESCAPE ticket prices depend on how and when you book:

The cheapest way to buy tickets for ESCAPE Penang is the book in advance online directly from their website. Ideally aim to book tickets at least 2 months in advance for the cheapest prices. Ticket price gradually increases if you book within two months of your intended visit date.

The tickets for the ESCAPE theme park in Penang are surprisingly good value for money relative to other theme parks in Malaysia. Especially when you consider how much you can do at ESCAPE Penang.

It is not possible to buy separate tickets for the water park or the adventure park. You need to buy a full access ticket which includes access to both parks.

Tickets for the ESCAPE theme park in Penang include full access to the whole park. You do not need to pay any additional fees for any of the activities, rides or experiences in the park. You can repeat any activity as many times as you like.

We recommend that you familiarise yourself with their swimming and adventure activities clothing policy to make sure that you have the appropriate attire for the day. For more information and to purchase tickets see their website: https://www.escape.my/

How do you get to Escape from George Town?

The ESCAPE adventure park has a large FREE car park on site. 

The Escape Theme park is located on Jalan Teluk Bahang next to Entopia Butterfly Farm. To get to Escape take the Rapid bus number 101 from Georgetown to Teluk Bahang. In George Town, the Rapid 101 bus goes from the Chew Jetty, along Jalan Chulia past Kapitans restaurant. If you are taking the Rapid 101 bus on Jalan Chulia, buses to Teluk Bahang will be travelling in the direction away from the jetty. For a small saving, Escape will also refund the price of bus tickets if you present them at the ticket counter.

The journey from George Town to Teluk Bahang is around 20km and will take around 45 minutes. You can also do the journey by taxi. It will cost around RM30 – RM50 to travel from Georgetown to the Penang National park by taxi and the journey will take around 30 minutes. Remember to agree on a price or the use of the taxi meter before the journey. 

And this marks the end to our ONE WEEK itinerary for Penang. BUT… don’t go away yet there is still more to share.

Other things to see and do around Penang

Penang really does have so much to offer! If you are staying in Penang for longer OR you want to switch out some activities in the Itinerary for Penang here is some more inspiration.

1 Visit Balik Pulau

Balik Pulau is a small town located on the remote western side of Penang island. Balik Pilau is Malaysian for “back of the island”. A visit to Balik Pulau is the perfect way to experience authentic local Malaysian village life. The town centre of Balik Pulau has old buildings and some fantastic local cafes and hawker stalls. It is also possible to start hikes up Penang hill from Balik 

Pulau. Balik Pulau is also famous for Laksa which is a traditional Nyonya dish. Laksa is an intense spicy, sour noodle soup containing tamarind, galangal, fish stock and garnished with mint, pineapple and torch ginger. We have not included Balik Pulau in our itinerary for Penang because it is quite out of the way if you only have one week in Penang. 

How do you get to Balik Pulau from George Town by bus? 

You can get to Balik Pulau from George Town by local bus. Take the 502 bus that starts at the Jetty, runs along Lebuh Light, along Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah and then along Jalan Penang (Penang road). The bus journey from the jetty to Balik Pulau will take around an hour or more depending on traffic. 

2 Explore the Penang hill temples

Our itinerary for Penang does include some temples – but there’s always more! 

The hilly jungle in the middle of Penang island is home to small beautiful temples that are harder to access than the temples in George Town and Air Itam. Most of these temples are best accessed by trekking and in some cases require intrepid and challenging uphill climbs.

Cheng Kon Sze Temple (清觀寺)  

Cheng Kon Sze Temple is also known as Cheng Ji Chan temple by locals. This is a very beautiful temple nestled in the hilly jungle of Penang. It is an ornate and colourful taoist temple with shrines, Chinese lanterns and art work. There are two ways to access Cheng Kon Sze Temple from Air Itam: Drive up Jalan Balik Pulau past Kek Lok Si temple. Turn left at the moon gate and drive up Jalan Penara, behind Kek Lok Si Temple. Follow this road up to the temple.  Alternatively, there is also a hiking route through the Chinese cemetery on Jalan Paya Terubong (Air Itam) and private durian orchards. Follow the granite stairs that lead to the temple. This trek will take around an hour and a half. 

Ngor Hean temple (五顯大帝)

Ngor Hean temple is a beautiful Chinese temple with an amazing west facing view over Balik Pulau and out to the ocean (the Straits of Malacca). Ngor Hean temple has a traditional style with Chinese lanterns, art work and shrines. There is also a viewing platform where you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful view.

Start from Air Itam dam. Follow Lorong Jog road around the north side of the dam. Look for a left fork up the hill. Follow the road up the hill for around 2.5km (pass Tua Pek Kong Temple). Turn right and follow the road up hill (there are some nice views up here). There are a couple of turn offs to ignore (a left and right turn), just keep following the road a further 1.5km to Ngor Hean temple. 

Tua Pek Kong temple (宝屿仙庙 大伯公)

This is a scenic Taoist temple located near the Penang Hill lower station of the mountain railway. This temple can be accessed on the trek up Penang hill from Air Itam. The location on the hillside affords a stunning panorama of the Air Itam district and the surrounding hills including a Kek Lok Si Temple, and the impressive Temple of Supreme Bliss (the Guan Yin statue). To get to the Tua Pek Kong temple go to the end of Jalan Lintang in Air Itam and trek up the trail that leads up Penang hill. Walk for around 500m and then turn left. Trek a further 200m up to the Tua Pek Kong temple.

Sītavana Vihāra Buddhist Monastery ( 悉达林)

Sitavana Vihara is a Theravāda Buddhist monastery is located on the south-eastern slope of Penang hill, around 2km from Kek Lok Si temple. This secluded monastery is surrounded by forest and terrace fields. Sitavana means “cool grove” – an appropriate name due to the cooler temperatures at the hilly location of the monastery.

There is also a temple called Snake Temple located in Bayan Lepas, south of George Town and near the airport. We have not recommended this in the main itinerary due to the location and also because we cannot vouch for the ethical treatment of snakes at the temple.

3 Dine in style at the Eastern and Oriental hotel

The Eastern and Oriental hotel in Penang is a beautiful colonial 5 star hotel located in the heart of historical George Town and overlooking the ocean. They have a wonderful range of dining options for guests and non-guests alike.

They often have special offers and run seasonal events celebrating Asian and Western foods.  Don’t miss their amazing buffet dinners – eat all you can fine dining.

We have not included this on our main itinerary for Penang due to the price – but if you love fine dining this is the choice for you.

4 Shopping spree at Gurney Plaza

If you need a break from our itinerary for Penang – then Gurney Plaza may be the perfect stop for you. Gurney plaza is located on Gurney Drive in the northern suburbs of George Town. It is a multi-level shopping mall with a range of department stores and small shops selling clothes, homeware, sports equipment, electrical items and gifts. There are also restaurants and a cinema complex showing movies in English. To get to Gurney Plaza from Georgetown by bus: Take 101 bus that runs along Jalan Chulia in the direction of Teluk Bahang. The bus journey from George town to Gurney Plaza should take around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Get off at the Gurney Plaza bus stop on Jalan Kelawai and cross the road, the entrance is very close to the bus stop. 

5 Visit the TOP at Komtar

The TOP at Komtar has a range of activities and exhibitions suitable for families. There is a dinosaur exhibit and a rainbow walkway – a terrifying glass bridge. There’s a lot of fun here – but we haven’t included this in our itinerary for Penang as we wanted to focus on the natural beauty and biodiversity in Penang. But if you want some quirky local fun this may be worth a stop. 

6 Relax on Batu Ferringhi Beach

Our itinerary for Penang is pretty active. But Penang also has its share of chill to offer. Batu Ferringhi is the hotel capital of Penang. Batu Ferringhi seafront is lined with hotels, restaurants and even a few bars. Batu Ferringhi is also home to a street night market (open seven days a week from 6pm until late). Due to the hotel tourism prices are a little higher in Batu Ferringhi compared to the rest of Penang. We recommend enjoying an evening in Batu Ferringhi.

You will see a beautiful sunset over the northwest corner of Penang island. Some of the restaurants along the seafront offer seating on the beach where you can enjoy food, drinks and shisha. A perfect place to relax and enjoy the tropical ambiance. During the day you can also do various water sports on Batu Ferringhi Beach such as jet skiing and parasailing. 

7 Stay at a durian farm

If you want to add something very memorable to your one week itinerary for Penang – Add some Durian!

Penang is famous in Asia for its durian. Durians are large spiky pungent fruits – often referred to as king of the fruits. They are definitely an acquired taste! Most people find the rich, creamy yellow flesh of the durian disgusting when they first try it. However over time it is easy to develop a strong affinity for this bizarre fruit. And Malaysians take great pride in their durian harvest. 

Throughout the durian season (May – July) you will see people selling durians at the street side. It normally costs around RM 25 for a small durian but you can pay a lot more for large durians, especially if they are a more rare and exquisite variety. You can also visit durian farms in Penang and see the durian trees growing this regal fruit. For a great durian farm that even offers accommodation check out the Bao Sheng Durian Farm (宝盛园/宝盛园民宿). During durian season Bao Sheng offer a durian buffet for RM 120 per person. We haven’t included this in our itinerary for Penang as it is quite niche and also seasonal. 

8 Relax and unwind at a tropical Spa

With such a physical and active itinerary for Penang – you may need to take time to rest, recover and pamper yourself.

The great news is – Penang has many spas and wellness centres to help you relax and unwind.

Check out the Rock Spa at the Hard Rock hotel. They welcome Guests and Non-guests to experience a range of creative, innovative and decadent treatments. They also occasionally have spa deals (such as paying a little more to get a FREE meal at the Hard Rock cafe)

Also check out the Danai Wellness centre in Tanjung Bungah. Treatments range from around RM 100 – RM 400.

9 Trek to a remote beach or an abandoned lighthouse

On this itinerary for Penang we have recommended a trek to Turtle Beach and Monkey Beach in the National Park. However, Penang is home to some more remote beaches which are often completely empty or very quiet. If you would like to get to a quieter beach check out Kampi Beach – south of Turtle beach in the Penang National Park. This is a beautiful clean beach just under 1km in length. You can trek to Kampi beach from the National Park office, the trek is around 5km. Due to the more remote location of Kampi beach it is often very quiet.  There is also an abandoned light house (called Muka Head light house) located on a hill above Monkey beach. It is possible to trek up to this from Monkey Beach.

10 Take a trip to an uninhabited island 

This is EPIC but expensive and time consuming so we haven’t included this in our main itinerary for Penang. 

You can really do this from Penang! If visiting an uninhabited jungle island is on your bucket list then there are a few in close proximity to Penang. It is not possible to do public “island hopping tours” in Penang. However, you can rent private boats and arrange private tours to small islands around Penang. The advantage of a private tour is that you are likely to get the island to yourself (or at least without the crowds). The disadvantage of private tours is the high price tag. If you are on a budget you could share the cost across your group and even group up with other travellers. 

Top Tip: If you would like to do cheaper island hopping tours in Malaysia we recommend Langkawi (you can find tours for around RM 80 per person) and the Perhentians (where you can find snorkelling trips for RM 50 per person). Find out which location is best for you – Penang or Langkawi

Here are a couple of small island private boat trips you can arrange in Penang. These could be arranged as day trips or overnight stays if you have a camping equipment:

Pulau Kendi (Kendi island):  

Pulau Kendi is a rocky jungle covered islet around 5km south of Penang. Kendi island is around 1.3km in length and only 400m at its widest point. There are no beaches in Pulau Kendi so the only way on and off the island is scrambling on rocks. If you want to do some jungle trekking it is possible to explore the island but be aware there are no paths or trails on the island. Pulau Kendi is a popular spot for fishing and a great place to see the sunset over the Straits of Malacca. Expect to pay around RM 650 for a private boat trip to Pulau Kendi from Penang. 

Pulau Song Song (Song Song island also known as Pulau Telur):

Pulau Song Song is a small uninhabited jungle island with a single hill peak, located around 35km north of Penang. Song Song island is very small at 500m length by 500m width and it has one sandy beach on the east coast of the island. Pulau Song is a great spot for snorkelling: The island is surrounded by beautiful coral, clear water and marine life. It takes around 45minutes – 1 hour to travel from Penang to Pulau Song Song by boat (one way). You can also trek through the jungle to the peak, be aware there are no trails and sections of the climb are very steep.

If you would like to arrange a private boat trip in Penang we recommend Isnoor Boat Tour company. They offer a range of private tours to beaches (such as monkey beach and turtle beach in the National Park), small islands near Penang (such as Kendi and Song Song) and fishing trips. They can also include BBQ lunches.

Isnoor Boat Tour company, Lorong Seri Tanjung Pinang, 11200 Tanjung Tokong, Penang, Malaysia

https://isnoor-boat-tourworkboats.business.site/

[email protected] +60 16442 1855

Here are some places to explore beyond Penang:

What can you do after this itinerary for Penang? Malaysia has loads of other amazing things to see and do. If you have more time here are some other things you can do near Penang: 

Explore the Cameron highlands

After your itinerary for Penang why not check out the Cameron Highlands? Warning – this is a VERY popular and busy spot during the Malaysian holidays. Avoid it at these times! 

The Cameron Highlands is a cool high altitude hilly region of Malaysia with tea plantations, strawberry farms and a beautiful mossy forest. Many Malaysians are attracted to the Cameron Highlands due to its cooler climate and beautiful trekking.

Due to the distance it would not be practical to visit the Cameron Highlands as a day trip from Penang. However you could visit and stay overnight before returning to Penang. Alternatively you could visit the Cameron Highlands on route to another destination such as Kuala Lumpur. 

If you visit the Cameron Highlands we recommend that you take a day tour of the mossy forest and other attractions in the Cameron Highlands. 

The mossy forest is a beautiful damp high altitude forest. Under these conditions the trees grow more slowly and are covered in thick moss and look like the jungle in the Avatar movie. Tours of the Mossy forest usually take 2-3 hours and the level is easy to intermediate. 

If you would like to visit Mossy Forest at your own pace, without a guide, you would need to arrange a taxi. It would be worth agreeing to a return price. Taxis may charge around RM25 per hour. The journey from Tanah Rata to the Mossy Forest is around 15km by road and takes around 30 minutes. 

You can also visit the Boh Tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands. The tea plantations are on the road between Tanah Rata and the Mossy Forest. At the tea plantations you can see where tea is grown and harvested, you can walk around a tea museum that explains the history of the tea plantation and shows you how tea is processed. And you can also buy tea and gifts from the tea plantation shop. We recommend around 2 hours to make the most of the tea plantation. Entry to the Boh Plantation, museum, shop and gardens is free. Opening hours 8.30am – 4.30pm, closed on mondays.  

How do you get to the Cameron Highlands from Penang by bus? 

The Cameron highlands are around 250km south of Penang and the journey takes 3-4 hours by bus. To take a bus from Penang to the Cameron Highlands you will need to go to the Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal and ask for a bus to Tanah Rata. Tickets cost RM 30 – RM 50 depending on the bus company and timings. 

Visit Langkawi island

Langkawi is a beautiful hilly island close to the Malay-Thai border. Langkawi has mangroves where you can take boat tours to watch the wildlife and a couple of beautiful waterfalls. It also has a cable car ride to the top of one of the highest peaks, a high ropes course, a beautiful beach and some small islands to visit nearby. You can get to Langkawi from Penang by ferry. For tickets and schedule visit:  https://www.langkawi-ferry.com/

How long do you need to see Langkawi?

If you are staying in Malaysia for longer we recommend a visit to Langkawi. You can see most of Langkawi’s main attractions in a long day. But to really make the most of the activities, sights and attractions in Langkawi we recommend at least 2-3 days. If you want a more chilled out holiday you could spend a week or more in Langkawi.  

How does Langkawi compare to Penang? 

Langkawi and Penang are both tropical islands with beautiful beaches, a hilly landscape and tropical jungle. Langkawi is a little less crowded, more spread out and has a smaller population than Penang. Penang has more culture including historic buildings, temples and street food. Langkawi also has a slightly more relaxed holiday feel compared to Penang and is slightly more expensive than Penang. Langkawi has slightly cleaner ocean water for swimming. Penang has a better public transport system with buses running around the island. Langkawi does not have a public transport system so you would need to travel by taxi or bike or car rental. 

Itinerary for Penang – Things to know before you go

What is the best time to visit penang.

The best time to enjoy this itinerary for Penang is during the dry season. Penang has a tropical climate and it is hot and humid in Penang all year round. We recommend visiting in the dry season between November and March. Be aware that temperatures increase towards the end of the dry season with February being the hottest month in Penang on average. April – October is Penang’s rainy season. If you are planning to visit other parts of Malaysia on your itinerary, consider the seasons in these other locations. For example November to February is the Monsoon season in the Perhentian islands and many of the facilities are closed during this season. 

You will find mixed information online about Penang’s seasons. This may be because the rainy and dry seasons are not that distinct in Penang with frequent rainfall in the dry season and many dry days in the rainy season.

What currency do they use in Penang?

The Malaysian currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (Symbol RM). You can find money exchange offices in George Town. There are many ATM machines around Penang which accept international bank cards (such as visa and maestro). International credit cards are often accepted too.  

Is English widely spoken in Penang?

English is widely spoken in Penang. Penang is a very diverse country with many languages. Bahasa Malaysian is the official language of Malaysia, however many people also speak Mandarin, Hokkien, Tamil, Hindi and more. English often acts as a “common language” spoken between different ethnic groups in Penang. Due to the diversity, many Malaysian people are multilingual and often mix languages in informal conversation. 

How do you get to and from Penang?

Can you fly to penang.

Penang is very easy to access. Penang has a small airport with both domestic and some short haul international flights. Air Asia is Malaysia budget airlines, and offer a cheap and convenient service from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. 

How do you get to Penang by bus? 

You can also get to Penang (Sungai Nibong terminal)  by bus from Kuala Lumpur (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan). Buses depart regularly through the day, the journey takes around 5 hours and costs in the region of RM 40. Buses are comfortable and Air Conditioned with spacious reclining seats.  

Can you get to Penang by train?

Trains are a cheap, comfortable and convenient way to travel around Malaysia. You can also get to Penang by train using the mainline which runs from Singapore, through Kuala Lumpur and up the length of the country. This trainline even runs up into Thailand. To get to Penang by train you need to get off at the Butterworth stop and transfer to Georgetown by bus, ferry or taxi. Ferries are a very convenient and affordable way to connect. The Butterworth KMT train station is right next to the ferry port that links Butterworth to the jetty in George Town on Penang island. 

What is the best way to get around in Penang? 

The best way to get around this itinerary for Penang depends on your personal requirements. If you have the budget for this the rent a car (expensive). If you are on a mid budget use Grab taxis and buses. If you are on a low budget for this itinerary for Penang then stick with local buses and minimize taxi use. 

Penang bus services

You can pretty much do the entire one week itinerary for Penang using the local bus system.

Penang is well connected by buses which run around the island providing cheap, affordable and convenient transport. Bus signs are in English and the drivers generally speak good English. The main service that you will use for this itinerary is the 101 bus which runs along the following route: George Town – Gurney – Tanjung Bungah – Batu Ferringhi – Teluk Bahang. Local bus tickets in Penang normally cost RM 1 – RM 6 depending on the distance of the journey. 

Penang taxis

The most convenient way to travel around this itinerary for Penang is to use taxis. The main way to get taxis in Penang is to use the Grab app. Download to your phone and you can request taxis. No need to enter card details – you can just pay with cash. This is a pretty quick and efficient way to get around and you generally get a good price. 

You can also get around Penang by taxis. Taxis are clearly marked (normally red) and can either be flagged from the side of the road or are often found waiting at popular destinations. Some drivers may wish to agree on a price before the journey, other drivers may use the taxi meter. 

• Short journeys around George Town (a few km): RM 5-10
• Medium journeys (5-10km):  RM 20 – RM 30
• Long journeys (around the island): RM 50 – RM 100

For longer journeys (e.g. to the tropical fruit farm) negotiate a deal that includes the price of the return trip.

What are the best places to eat in Penang?

It’s hard to go anywhere in Penang without spotting incredible local foods. We have tried to recommend some GREAT eating places in our itinerary for Penang. 

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE to the best places to eat in Penang

The cultural diversity of Penang brings a unique fusion of many types of amazing food. You don’t need to pay much to eat amazing local street food. Alternatively if you want to splash out Penang also has some amazing options for fine dining. 

Kapitan’s restaurant George Town

Kapitan’s serves a range of amazing Indian food. Don’t miss their incredible Tandoori sets, cooked in an authentic tandoor fire oven, the beautifully flavoured chicken is served with fresh Naan bread and sauces. Kapitan’s is very affordable, tasty and conveniently located on Jalan Chulia in the heart of Little India George Town. Kapitans is open every day and late into the night. 

Try Nasi Champur at Nasi Melayu Lidiana

Nasi Champur is Malay for “mixed rice” – expect a culinary explosion of flavors, smells and textures. We recommend trying Nasi Champur at Nasi Melayu Lidiana. This is a very local spot that you would miss unless you had been tipped off by a local or a very special travel blog (you’re welcome). For Nasi Champur you will be given rice as a standard and then you pick additional dishes: they normally include currys, veggies, eggs, chicken, fish. Expect to pay RM 5 – RM15 for an amazing plate of food. Someone will normally offer a drinks menu when you sit down – you order and pay them for drinks. Nasi Champur tends to be a lunch time food, so we recommend visiting around 12-1pm. To get to Nasi Melayu Lidiana, take a bus to the Floating mosque (101 bus on the way to Batu Ferringhi). Opposite the floating mosque, walk up the road that runs up the hill (Persiaran Tanjung Bungah road) after around 50 meters you will see a car park on your right and a building with a corrugated roof. Nasi Melayu Lidiana is in this building. 

Viva Local Food Haven

Vival Local Food Haven is a Chinese-Malaysian hawker centre located in Tanjung Bungah. This is open every day in the evenings. They serve an amazing range of foods such as: Satay, Fish, Oyster omelette, Char Koay Teow (fried noodles), clay pot chicken rice and much more. Most dishes are RM 5 – 10. The first thing to do is find a table and note your table number. Then go to the hawker stalls that interest you most and make an order giving your table number. Someone will probably come with a drinks menu. 

Sri Ananda Bahwan

For amazing curries and Indian food don’t miss Sri Ananda Bahwan in Tanjung Bungah. They serve an excellent range of very tasty curries and Indian set meals. Not only is the food amazing, the prices are very reasonable and there is a lovely ambiance here. To Get to Sri Ananda take the 101 bus and get off near Dalat School. Sri Ananda is opposite to Dalat school. Sri Ananda is open from lunch time and late into the evening. Remember to try Teh Taric (Malaysian Indian tea) with your food. 

Newlane Hawkers (recommended on day 1 of the itinerary for Penang)

Located on Lorong Baru street near Komtar tower in George Town, New lane Hawker is Penang street food at its best. As you wander along, the food advertises itself to you. You can find noodle dishes, rice dishes, belacan chicken, fried fish, soups and curries. The prices are very cheap; expect to pay around RM5 – RM10 on average for dishes. This place is worth visiting just for the experience, not to mention the incredible range of epic Malaysian street food. Newlane Hawkers are closed on Wednesdays. 

Eastern and Oriental 

For an unforgettable dining experience check out the Eastern and Oriental Hotel located in the heart of George Town. The Eastern an Oriental hotel has a beautiful colonial style and elegance. It is located right next to the ocean for epic sunset views. They offer a range of amazing fine dining experiences and local seasonal activities. 

Feringgi Grill 

If you want to enjoy fine dining in style check out the Feringgi Grill which is located at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort. It has a rich luxurious ambiance and the dress code is smart formal. They serve a range of decadent eurasian dishes. Prices start at around RM 35 for simple starter dishes up to RM 600 or more for some of their speciality main courses. 

Itinerary for Penang: What should you pack?

This itinerary for Penang is active and adventurous and involves a lot of sweating and exercise in a hot climate. We recommend light loose fit clothing. In addition to the general things that you would want to pack we also recommend the following: 

• Bring a day bag that you can pack up for day trips
• A waterproof dry sack can be a great way to keep your valuables dry if there is a tropical downpour and you are out and about. Also very handy if you plan to go sea kayaking. 
• Swimming stuff and a travel towel
• High factor sunscreen (SPF 30 or more)
• Bring an umbrella or sun hat – very useful for temple visits
• Don’t forget insect repellant (ideally containing DEET)
• Long trousers for the evenings
• One warmer top for air conditioned buses
• If you have sandals or flip flops also bring some trainers 

If you are travelling from the UK you do not need to bring a universal travel adaptor: In Malaysia they use plug type G. This is the same as the UK 3 pin plugs. However, a travel adaptor can be handy if you are transiting through different countries or plan to visit other countries on your trip. 

Looking for more inspiration?

Don’t miss our ultimate guide on THE BEST things to do in Malaysia

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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• How To Spend One Week...

How to Spend One Week in Sarawak

Sarawak is known for rainforests, caves and national parks. A trip to Sarawak promises a completely different experience to West Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Here’s how to spend one week in Sarawak for the best of nature and to see Borneo’s endemic wildlife.

Before we start.

Sarawak is Malaysia’s largest state. Flying is the most convenient way to travel on your one week in Sarawak trip. Vast distances combined with poor roads create long and arduous journeys. We strongly suggest taking domestic flights between Kuching, Sibu and Miri. Otherwise, you’ll be spending most of the day sat on a bus. Our itinerary starts in Kuching and ends in either Miri or Brunei.

Day one: Arrive in the City of Cats and go sightseeing

Regular flights connect Kuala Lumpur with Kuching in Sarawak, taking approximately one hour and 50 minutes. When you arrive in Kuching, visit Kuching Waterfront, Carpenter Street and Old Bazaar. Snap a photograph of Astana (the Palace) and the stunning Sarawak State Legislative Assembly from the Sarawak River. Be sure to sample state dish Sarawak Laksa (we recommend Poh Lam Laksa for a cheap meal). If you’re a cat lover, stroll around the City of Cats and find their famous cat statues. For an evening drink, head to Drunk Monkey on Carpenter Street to mingle with Kuching’s expats and other backpackers.

Day two: Day trip to Bako National Park

Bako National Park near Kuching is a particular highlight on our one week in Sarawak itinerary. Start as early as possible and take the red bus (number one) to Bako Market from Central Kuching. Activities range from hiking along colour-coded trails and relaxing on hidden beaches to touring the mangroves by boat. Bako also houses a small community of tame proboscis monkeys near Park HQ. Read our guide to Bako National Park to get the most out of your day trip. Pro tip: Bring food and water. There’s an on-site restaurant, but it might not be open. Expect to arrive back in Kuching around 5:00pm. Head to Bear Garden, an environmentally-conscious vegetarian/vegan restaurant, for dinner and a drink. And don’t spare on the orders: Bear Garden donates 50% of their profit to the Orangutan Project! Ask the staff and they’ll explain what they do.

Day three: See baby orangutans and the sunset at Damai Beach

The third day of our one week in Sarawak itinerary combines a trip to see baby orangutans with a beach sunset. Sarawak’s orangutan rehabilitation centre lies approximately 40 minutes by car from Kuching. Matang Wildlife Centre adopts injured and orphaned orangutans. They nurse and rehabilitate the young primates in a protected area before releasing them back into the wild. We suggest arranging a taxi from Kuching to Matang, which costs approximately RM60 ($15 USD) one way. Ask the park ranger to help you find transport back to the city. In the afternoon, make your way to Damai Beach some 34 kilometres (21 miles) north. Jungle fringes the orange and white coastline inside Damai Beach Resort with Mount Santubong in the background. This is our favourite place in Sarawak for the sunset.

Day four: A quick stop in Sibu

Most travellers usually skip Sibu on their trip to Sarawak. But it’s worth a day to see the town’s superlatives: Both Malaysia’s largest town square (Sibu Town Square) and indoor market (Sibu Central Market). Take a 40-minute domestic flight from Kuching rather than the six-hour plus bus ride. Compared to other parts of Sarawak, Sibu has a Chinese majority giving it a different atmosphere. Check out the 19th-century Tua Pek Kong Temple and the Sibu Heritage Centre (free admission) to learn about the town’s history and culture. In the afternoon, visit nearby Bukit Aup Jubilee Park and follow the short jungle trails to viewing platforms and traditional longhouses. The Sibu Night Market is a top spot to taste local delicacies and street food in the evening.

Day five: Fly to Miri and go sightseeing in Sarawak’s ‘Oil City’

Malaysian Airlines (MAS) offers daily flights from Sibu to Miri departing at approximately 8:00am. Expect to arrive in Miri city centre around 10:30am. Our whirlwind sightseeing itinerary involves climbing Canada Hill, visiting Miri Fan Recreation Park and catching the sunset at Brighton Beach. The Miri Handicraft Centre on Jalan Brooke offers traditional souvenirs and a glimpse into indigenous culture. In the evening, check out Alice in Borneoland to unwind with a drink and live music.

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Day six: Day trip to Sarawak’s world-famous caves

Miri acts as a hub to four of the state’s national parks, but it’s not practical to visit them all with just one week in Sarawak. Instead, spend the day at Niah Caves located approximately one and half hours from Miri. Niah Caves boast a labyrinth of passageways penetrating the limestone cliffs connected by boardwalks. Tourists can also see rare canoe-shaped coffins in some of the chambers as well as prehistoric cave art. Getting to the caves can be challenging on public transport. Pro tip: Rent a car or try to share the cost of a taxi or minivan with other travellers. When you return to Miri, check out Madli’s Restaurant opposite Imperial Mall. Order some of their Sarawakian satay (Malaysian style kebabs on a stick).

Day seven: Fly out from Miri or take the bus to Brunei

The final part of our one week in Sarawak itinerary involves departing from Miri. Direct flights connect the city to either Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. As an alternative, take the two-hour bus to Bandar Seri Begawan and spend 48 hours in Brunei . You can then fly direct to Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok and Manila.

Places to Stay

The best hotels in batu ferringhi, malaysia, for every traveller.

See & Do

Visiting the borneo rainforest: all you need to know.

What Are the Best Resorts in Malaysia?

Guides & Tips

The borneo sun bear: where to find the world's smallest bear.

The Best Hotels to Book in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels to Book in Sabah, Malaysia

The Best Hotels to Book in Ipoh, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

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15 Tennis-inspired Outfits That Are Comfortable Enough to Wear All Day at the U.S. Open — From $15

They make excellent travel pieces, too.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Tennis has always been a well-loved sport that attracts spectators to large events to watch the best players in the world compete for a professional title, and the U.S. Open is no exception. The past year has been an especially big year for tennis. From 19-year-old American player Coco Gauff winning the title last September to the release of the Zendaya-led Challengers in the spring and the rise of the "tenniscore" fashion trend , people cannot stop talking about the sport and incorporating fun nods to it in their wardrobe. 

The end of August marks the beginning of the U.S. Open, which takes place in Queens, New York. Whether you’ve had this trip planned for months or are buying a last-minute ticket, there’s still the important question: “What do I wear?” Thankfully, this New York City-based fashion writer has you covered. I’ve picked out 15 of my favorite tennis outfit styles, including chic blouses and elegant matching sets to comfortable athleisure dresses , that are surefire aces for the 2024 U.S. Open. If you’re attending the full, two-week-long tournament or just stopping by to see some quick tennis action, you’ll be sure to find something to serve in. However, the best part of all is that each one can be worn well after the event, too — and that they're starting at $15.  

Madewell Ribbed Polo Mini Dress

Madewell’s take on the traditional polo dress is an amazing option for a day of watching tennis in New York City. With its collared neckline, this dress is sure to have you looking elegant among the swanky spectators. The brand’s sustainable Tencel fabric slightly hugs the skin and is just loose enough to guarantee a comfortable, breathable fit. The ribbed detailing adds a bit of sophistication to the look, but you could certainly dress this up or down. I could easily see myself pairing this with white sneakers and a canvas tote bag, or you could take a different approach with low heels and some nice jewelry to round out the look. 

Quince Poplin Boxy Short Sleeve Shirt

Another fresh rendition of a timeless look is this cropped button-down shirt from Quince. The boxy, oversized fit with large panels of fabric along the edges gives it a modern and trendy essence, while classic features like the button-down front and a crisp, pointed collar help it remain incredibly fashionable. The loose, utility fit already provides a breezy feeling while wearing the shirt, and the 100-percent organic cotton fabric will also help keep you cool even at an all-day outdoor sporting event in August. With three different neutral colors to choose from, it would be easy to pair this with anything currently in your wardrobe. 

Anrabess Knit Pullover and Pants Two-piece Set

If you’re like me and find it hard to decide what to wear to an upcoming event, make it easy on yourself and wear a two-piece set. The sleeveless sweater top and the smart casual trousers are an excellent combination for a posh look that will leave you feeling put together all day. The slightly cropped top hem with the high-rise waistband of the bottoms creates a flattering silhouette when worn together. Outside of a tennis match, this could easily work for a Sunday morning brunch or a lovely evening dinner while you’re still in the city. 

Sam Edelman Simone Sneakers

Having the proper footwear at the U.S. Open is just as important as your outfit itself, and this stylish pair from Sam Edelman is just what you need. Even though you’ll be finding yourself sitting and watching the action for a large portion of the day, you’ll still want a shoe that provides function and support for the different activities around the stadium. With thick, 1-inch soles, they ensure comfort in each step. The Simones come in four different colors and a trendy scalloped trim that would look great for a variety of different occasions. If you’re going for a preppy outfit for the event, the ivory color with touches of gold or the all-white pair would tie in nicely for a tennis match look. Although, the pine green colorway is a personal favorite of mine.

J.Crew Amelia Maxi Shirtdress in Poplin Cotton

J. Crew’s Amelia Shirtdress is an effortlessly elegant piece that will catch glances as you walk through the famous Arthur Ashe Stadium. Little details throughout the dress, like the button-down center and the collared neck, give it a classy and polished touch, and the slightly ruffled sleeves and hemline add a dainty and feminine quality as well. Not to mention, the tie in the middle of the dress helps bring dimension to the piece and creates a flattering silhouette. With a few pieces of jewelry and other accessories like a pair of sunglasses and a fun pair of shoes, you’ll be ready to go. 

Cugoao Half-zip Polo Tennis Dress

If you’re attending the U.S. Open and looking to go the athleisure route, Amazon has the perfect dress. With a mix of nylon and spandex, the Cugoao tennis dress offers just enough stretch to stay comfortable throughout the day. One of my favorite features of this dress is the zippered neckline that can be worn up or folded down into a collar. Even if you're playing tennis in this sporty dress, having the zipper down would keep things cool while active. There’s also a pair of separate shorts that come with the dress to wear underneath that have two pockets on the sides if you ever want to slip in small items away quickly.

Alo Yoga Tennis Club Sweater Knit Dress

This best-selling dress from Alo Yoga is all the rage — so much so that it sold out and was just restocked. The knit sweater dress, with a varsity jacket-styled pattern lining the edges of the fabric, creates a classic and chic look that would be perfect for wearing to the tennis stadium. The dress is currently available in black and gray and could be dressed up or down depending on how you choose to accessorize. I’d personally style this dress with gold jewelry pieces, oversized sunglasses, white sneakers, and a small shoulder bag to find that happy medium of cute and casual. 

Athleta Essential Tee Dress

You can never go wrong with a simple T-shirt dress, and this one from Athleta, made with the brand's lightweight Supima cotton, has a flowy and comfortable fit that you’ll feel good in from the day session matches well into the night session matches. One thing I love about this dress is that it's available in regular and tall sizing, so depending on your height, it will offer enough length to keep you covered. Pair with a belt for more shape, a cardigan wrapped around the shoulders, and some white sneakers or platform sandals, and you have the perfect U.S. Open outfit.

Franco Sarto Tinsley Mary Jane Flats 

A classic style that’s made its way back to the mainstream, Mary Jane flats had an epic return and are here to stay well through the fall. For under $100, this pair from Franco Sarto would be a great addition to anyone’s closet for year-long wear. Boasting a versatile design, these shoes are a great option to go with a variety of outfits, whether it’s for a refined look at a tennis match or maybe just a casual day at the office. The metallic silver and leopard print styles immediately caught my eye, but with nine colors to choose from there’s something for everyone. 

Anthropologie Melie Bianco Willow Shoulder Bag

Anthropologie

What’s better than a bright yellow-green shoulder bag at the hottest tennis event of the year? If you’re looking to make a subtle statement walking around the grounds, then look no further: The Melie Bianco Willow Shoulder Bag is just the right mix of luxurious yet playful. The bag is made with smooth vegan leather that allows it to keep a sturdy shape. Measuring 10 inches by 6 inches by 3 inches, it’s the perfect size to hold all of your essentials. There’s even a slip pocket on the exterior of the purse if you need easy access to a few things. 

For the sporty dressers out there, I recommend toting around something sleek and spacious like the Telena Belt Bag from Amazon. Its adjustable strap allows it to be worn around your waist, crossbody-style, or on your shoulder, and there are plenty of pouches to hold your tickets, phone, and more.  

Vuori Set Dress

What says “tennis” better than a pleated skirt? Thankfully, you don’t have to be a tennis player to wear this classic look from Vuori. The Set Dress could easily double as the perfect outfit to play a set in or be styled for an everyday look. With a built-in sports bra and thick straps for extra support, it’s a great option to provide all-day comfort. Beyond the U.S. Open and your next rally, this dress could also be worn on a trip, especially if you'll be doing a lot of walking and sightseeing. 

Abercrombie & Fitch LuxeLoft Short-sleeve Cardigan

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch recently added this short-sleeve cardigan to its collection, and it’s an excellent choice for a day of tennis in New York. The cardigan-style, short-sleeve sweater is simple enough to be styled well with anything from straight-leg jeans to a maxi skirt, but the gold buttons down the middle and the crew neckline give it a polished look that would make any outfit seem incredibly put together. It comes in four different colors, and whether you take this from the tennis match to the office, it will have you feeling comfortable and stylish. 

Everlane The Boxy Cardigan in Everyday Cotton

A cute option that could nicely cross over into your fall wardrobe, this organic cotton cardigan from Everlane is a lovely versatile closet staple. With eight different colors to choose from, it wouldn’t be too hard to find a color that catches your eye and pairs with your outfit for the U.S. Open. In the summertime, I love to take cardigans like this and drape them over my shoulders to create a casual yet classy look without fully committing to putting the sweater on. I’d wait just a few more weeks until the temperatures begin to drop for that. However, if you’re traveling from out of town to watch the tennis matches, this would be the perfect item to keep you warm if you find yourself getting cold at the airport or train station. 

New Balance 6 Panel Washed Corduroy Hat

New Balance

A cute baseball hat during the summer can do wonders not only for your eyes but for your outfit as well. At first glance, this hat from New Balance is no different than an everyday baseball cap, but its corduroy fabric helps set it apart. It comes in two colors: beige linen and burgundy rich oak. Either color would be a great option to accessorize an outfit for the U.S. Open as the material adds a bit of charm and character to help make a look unique. The rich tones of the brown-red color would also be an amazing accessory to wear into the fall. 

Mosanana Trendy Rectangle Sunglasses

A pair of oversized sunnies is a must for a day spent outside at a sporting event, and this pair from Amazon gives luxury without the designer price tag. The vintage-like rectangle shape is a great choice to throw on with any outfit, but it will also give you that final touch that adds a bit of class to the look. For only $15, these sunnies are essential to keep on you while traveling to the U.S. Open and during the matches. You even get a case with your purchase.

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Exploring Seattle, one landmark at a time

In this walkable city, there is something to see around every corner

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Ever evolving, Seattle is a city that cannot be defined by just one thing. It's as much a center of tech and home to business giants like Amazon and Starbucks as it is a cultural hub where Pearl Jam and Soundgarden got their start. Oh, and it's also a destination for nature lovers seeking green spaces. Here are a few ways to experience the best of what the Emerald City has to offer.

Exploring Seattle

Sea planes are at eye level when you are standing at the top of the Space Needle

Head to the Space Needle to really see Seattle. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, this 605-foot-tall futuristic landmark offers stunning panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, the Cascades and the Olympic Mountains. A quick elevator ride sweeps you to the top, where you can walk around an outdoor deck and sit on benches that make it feel like you are floating in air. Enjoy a drink and a different look at the ground below in The Loupe Lounge, which has the world's only rotating glass floor.

Chihuly Garden and Glass opened in 2012 as a permanent space for Dale Chihuly's artwork 

A newer Seattle icon is right next door: Chihuly Garden and Glass . This mesmerizing museum is filled with pieces by glass artist Dale Chihuly, a Tacoma native. His work is bold and beautiful, the colors deep and vibrant, and when the gallery lights shine down on installations like "Mille Fiori" (Italian for "a thousand flowers") they come alive. In the Glasshouse, a 100-foot-long red, yellow and orange glass sculpture stretches across the ceiling while outside, more colorful artwork, surrounded by plants and flowers, are around every corner. After your tour, stop at The Bar at Chihuly Garden and Glass for a craft cocktail or bite, like the rich salmon dip or smoky clam chowder.

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Pike Place Market is popular with tourists and locals

Since 1907, crowds have been going to Pike Place Market to stock up on fresh produce, seafood, flowers and anything else the talented artisans and farmers are selling on any given day. This is one of the largest continuously operating public markets in the country, known for its diverse offerings and hijinks like fish-throwing shows. The market covers nine acres, with 500 small businesses represented, plus several famous names. This is where the first Starbucks sits at 1912 Pike Place and the original Sur La Table at 84 Pine St.

Bobbie Medlin is a standout independent boutique 

Nearby, there are plenty of independent boutiques to step into, like Bobbie Medlin . Filled with treasures carefully chosen from artisans across France, this home store has new and antique items alike, from delicate dishes to gilded handcrafted paper art. Around the corner is Fini , an accessories-focused store with hats, headbands, jewelry and handbags. 

Chief Seattle of the Duwamish tribe lived from circa 1780 to 1866

Seattle is on the territory of Coast Salish tribes, and is named for Chief Seattle, a leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish people. Opportunities abound to learn more about the city's Native history, starting with the Indigenous Walking Tour at the University of Washington. At the Seattle Art Museum , view contemporary and traditional work by Indigenous artists, and to see artifacts and maps that tell the story of the first people of Seattle, visit the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center .

Seafood, Dutch babies and lots of coffee

Oysters are always on the menu in Seattle

Being on the water means Seattle is a great spot for seafood, and the oysters are sublime at the Walrus and the Carpenter , served not long after being pulled out of Thorndyke Bay and Kilisut Harbor. You can get them raw or fried, with a side of cilantro aioli.

The city is also known for delicacies that were born here, like the Dutch baby and American-style teriyaki. For the former, Eater Seattle recommends heading to brunch at Tilikum Place Cafe , where you can get the "cross between a Yorkshire pudding and a pancake" served to you in a "hot cast iron skillet with all the pomp and circumstance of breakfast fajitas." For the latter, try Okinawa Teriyaki , where the "thick slabs of juicy grilled chicken are phenomenal" and served in "mammoth portions."

Throw a rock in Seattle, and it will likely hit a coffee shop. True java lovers will want to make a pilgrimage to Espresso Vivace, which is credited with bringing latte art from Italy to the U.S. "No ultra-forced hipster vibes here," Fodors said, "just good company and beans, fluffy lattes and a seat for everyone." Caffè Fiorè is another favorite, "thanks to its full-bodied and smooth Caffe Vita organic coffee," as is Cafe Solstice and its "uniquely smooth blends and high-quality espresso."

Sleeping in Seattle

At sunset, head to the Astra Hotel's rooftop bar Altitude Sky Lounge to watch the colors of the sky shift

The playful Astra Hotel knows how to make an impression. There are nods to space everywhere, from glittering wallpaper reminiscent of the stars to astronaut artwork in the lobby, and the friendly staff has an unusual member on its team: Sparky, a robot butler. Order a meal from DoorDash or request fresh linens and Sparky will deliver it right to you. 

The modern rooms were designed to anticipate needs, and with a push of a button guests can open or shut the shades, turn on the do-not-disturb system and chat with a digital concierge. The fantastic corner Space Needle View room has windows on two sides, and as a bonus you can also see Lake Union in the distance. The same views can be had at the rooftop Altitude Sky Lounge, which has indoor and outdoor seating. Start your night off with a cocktail like the Queen Anne's Revenge made with brown-butter pineapple rum, pineapple juice, calamansi juice, simple syrup and egg white. Then, head down to Otium Grill and Greens for a dinner encompassing the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.

The historic State Hotel is just around the corner from Pike Place Market

You can feel the history of The State Hotel the moment you walk through the door. Constructed in 1904, today the recently renovated building is filled with 91 striking guest rooms featuring high ceilings, comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms. Original art is everywhere, from the portraits of famous Seattle residents hanging in the rooms to colorful Kate Blairstone custom wallpaper designs inspired by Pike Place Market, located nearby. There is also a Shepherd Fairey mural, "Fire Sale," on the building's west facade, which the artist said is a "comment on the challenges any individual faces pushing for environmental and climate responsibility," especially when confronted with the "massive power" of fossil fuel companies.

The amiable front desk clerks at the State are always available to answer questions, call cabs or offer recommendations on what to order at the on-site restaurant Ben Paris . Right off the lobby, Ben Paris is bustling during brunch and dinner, serving elevated classic American fare like the fig-and-bacon grilled cheese sandwich and cauliflower Caesar salad. On summer Fridays and Saturdays, guests can also have a drink or light bite at Little Ben's rooftop bar.

Catherine Garcia was a guest of Astra Hotel and The State Hotel

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Catherine Garcia has worked as a senior writer at The Week since 2014. Her writing and reporting have appeared in Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, Wirecutter, NBC News and "The Book of Jezebel," among others. She's a graduate of the University of Redlands and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

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Oil Market Report - August 2024

About this report

The IEA Oil Market Report (OMR) is one of the world's most authoritative and timely sources of data, forecasts and analysis on the global oil market – including detailed statistics and commentary on oil supply, demand, inventories, prices and refining activity, as well as oil trade for IEA and selected non-IEA countries.

• Global oil demand increased by 870 kb/d in 2Q24, with a contraction in China limiting gains. Demand is set to rise by less than 1 mb/d in both 2024 and 2025. This is largely unchanged from last month’s Report and far slower than last year’s 2.1 mb/d growth as comparatively lacklustre macroeconomic drivers come to the fore.
• World supply rose 230 kb/d to 103.4 mb/d in July as a substantial OPEC+ increase more than offset losses from non-OPEC+. Annual gains accelerate from 730 kb/d in 2024 to 1.9 mb/d in 2025. Non-OPEC+ production increases by 1.5 mb/d this year and next, while OPEC+ may fall by 760 kb/d in 2024 but rise by 400 kb/d in 2025 if voluntary cuts stay in place.
• Global refinery throughputs are forecast to increase by 840 kb/d to 83.3 mb/d in 2024, and by 600 kb/d to 83.9 mb/d next year. Margin weakness continues to weigh on processing rates, with Chinese runs now expected to decline y-o-y. Margins fell further in July in Europe, but rose in Singapore and on the US Gulf Coast, led by stronger naphtha and gasoline cracks.
• Global observed oil inventories fell by 26.2 mb in June, following four months of builds totalling 157.5 mb. OECD onshore stocks declined by 19.5 mb but were mostly offset by a 17.5 mb increase in non-OECD countries. Oil on water declined for a third consecutive month, by 24.2 mb. OECD Industry inventories were down by 21 mb, largely in line with the seasonal norm.
• Brent crude futures tumbled by $6/bbl during July, as a string of weak macro-economic data prompted a broad risk-off sentiment across financial markets, outweighing escalating hostilities in the Middle East. Front-month time spreads remained resilient in the face of falling flat prices, reflecting a tight Atlantic Basin market. At the time of writing, Brent was trading at around $80/bbl.

Market gymnastics

Oil markets exhibited Olympic levels of volatility over recent weeks. Benchmark crude oil prices tumbled sharply lower in July and early August as unexpected economic data threw the market off balance. Questions over the health of the global economy re-emerged as Japan increased interest rates sparking a reversal in yen carry trades, China’s outlook deteriorated and US hiring slowed in July. But persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and some relatively positive macroeconomic data backstopped weakness in oil futures, with prices rebounding higher in the second week of August. Moreover, OPEC+ cuts are also tightening physical markets, lifting North Sea Dated to a $2/bbl premium against the front-month ICE contract. At the time of writing, ICE Brent futures traded at around $80/bbl, down by more than $6/bbl since the start of July.

Our outlook for global oil demand is largely unchanged from last month’s Report, with growth projected at slightly less than 1 mb/d in both 2024 and 2025. However, a meaningful shift in drivers is becoming apparent. In June, Chinese oil demand contracted for a third consecutive month, driven by a slump in industrial inputs, including for the petrochemical sector. Preliminary trade data point to further weakness in July, as crude oil imports sank to their lowest level since the stringent lockdowns of September 2022. By contrast, demand in advanced economies, especially for US gasoline, has shown signs of strength in recent months. The US economy, where one-third of global gasoline is consumed, has outperformed peers, with a resilient service sector buttressing miles driven. As a result, OECD oil consumption flipped from a 300 kb/d annual contraction in 1Q24 to growth of 190 kb/d in the second quarter.

Despite the marked slowdown in Chinese oil demand growth, OPEC+ has yet to call time on its plan to gradually unwind voluntary production cuts starting in the fourth quarter. Its Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC) reiterated on 1 August, however, that the group could pause or reverse its decision depending on prevailing market conditions. Our current balances suggest that even if those cuts remain in place, global inventories could build by an average 860 kb/d next year as non-OPEC+ supply increases of around 1.5 mb/d in 2024 and again in 2025 more than cover expected demand growth. The Americas quartet of the United States, Guyana, Canada and Brazil account for three-quarters, or roughly 1.1 mb/d, of non-OPEC+ supply gains in each of the two years.

For now, supply is struggling to keep pace with peak summer demand, tipping the market into a deficit. As a result, global inventories have taken a hit. After four months of gains, June saw oil inventories fall by 26.2 mb. Crude oil stocks dropped by 40.9 mb, even as China built substantially. Meanwhile, oil products rose by 14.8 mb, supported by large builds in US LPG. Preliminary July data suggest this trend continued, with total stocks declining once again as crude inventories lost further ground while oil products made gains. This dynamic is squeezing refinery margins, potentially setting the stage for an upset and shift in refinery activity in the coming months. Competition in the oil markets will continue even after the Olympic and Paralympic

OPEC+ crude oil production 1 million barrels per day

1. Includes extra voluntary curbs where announced. 2. Capacity levels can be reached within 90 days and sustained for an extended period. 3. Excludes shut in Iranian, Russian crude. 4. Angola left OPEC effective 1 Jan 2024. 5. Iran, Libya, Venezuela exempt from cuts. 6. Mexico excluded from OPEC+ compliance. 7. Bahrain, Brunei, Malaysia, Sudan and South Sudan.

Oil Market Report Documentation

Definitions of key terms used in the OMR.

For more info on the methodology, download the PDF below.

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• Download the methodology PDF circle-arrow

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IEA (2024), Oil Market Report - August 2024 , IEA, Paris https://www.iea.org/reports/oil-market-report-august-2024

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Hurricane Ernesto Brings Dangerous Beach Conditions to East Coast

After striking Bermuda and losing strength, Ernesto became a hurricane again on Sunday. Dangerous surf was expected along the East Coast of the United States.

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By Judson Jones and Don Burgess

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and a reporter for The Times. Don Burgess reported from Hamilton, Bermuda.

Ernesto regained hurricane status on Sunday as it continued to move offshore along the East Coast, where there was a significant risk of dangerous conditions at beaches.

Life-threatening surf and rip currents are possible in the Bahamas, Bermuda and on the Atlantic’s western shores for the next few days, forecasters said .

Here are key things to know about the storm.

The storm made landfall in Bermuda as a Category 1 hurricane around 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, according to the U.S. National Weather Service. It weakened into a tropical storm as it moved away from Bermuda on Saturday night, after making landfall in the morning and bringing significant rain. No major damage was reported.

Ernesto was not expected to approach the mainland United States, but because of the risk it posed on the coast, several beaches were closed in New York City on Sunday. Two men drowned hours apart off the shore of Hilton Head Island in South Carolina on Friday, officials said.

President Biden approved an emergency declaration in Puerto Rico, where hundreds of thousands of customers served by the island’s utility were left without power when Ernesto moved through this week.

Bermuda began returning to normal on Sunday, a day after Hurricane Ernesto battered the island with fierce winds and heavy rain. The storm’s eye lingered directly over Bermuda for more than two hours, subjecting residents to an extended period of eerie calm followed by renewed turbulence.

In the aftermath of the storm, residents joined government workers in clearing trees and debris from roads.

The Causeway, the only road from the main island to the airport, reopened for traffic at 9 a.m. The L.F. Wade International Airport had also reopened after closing on Friday night, and most major thoroughfares were passable.

There were no reports of major damage or injuries as of Sunday afternoon, officials said, though many households found themselves in the dark.

BELCO , Bermuda’s sole electricity provider, said power failures affected more than 11,500 customers.

Bermuda is used to dealing with hurricane-force winds, which begin at 74 miles per hour.

The last storm to make landfall on Bermuda was Paulette on Sept. 14, 2020 , which caused minimal property damage.

The most memorable Bermuda hurricane of the 21st century didn’t make landfall.

Hurricane Fabian instead passed just to the west of the territory on Sept. 5, 2003, killing four sailors and forcing a quarter of Bermuda’s hotels and guesthouses to close for repairs.

Ernesto was not expected to approach the mainland United States, but forecasters warned that swells and rip currents were likely to affect the East Coast.

The New York City office of the Weather Service warned swimmers to stay out of the water. Beaches in Queens and Brooklyn were closed on Saturday and Sunday to swimming because of dangerous rip currents, the mayor’s office said.

On Friday, two men, ages 65 and 73, drowned hours apart off the shore of Hilton Head Island, S.C., the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office said.

Lifeguards recovered both men, who were believed to have been caught in riptides, though the authorities said they could not confirm whether the deaths were tied to Ernesto.

“We do have rip currents at different times throughout the year,” Master Sgt. Daniel Allen said in an email.

In North Carolina, crashing waves spawned by Ernesto contributed to the collapse of an unoccupied house into the ocean , officials said.

Earlier in the week, Ernesto brought up to 10 inches of rain to parts of Puerto Rico, the Weather Service said.

The storm knocked out power to more than 600,000 customers. Luma Energy, which distributes electricity in the territory, said on Sunday morning that more than 62,000 customers were still without power.

This hurricane season is expected to be busy.

Forecasters have warned that the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season could be much more active than usual.

Earlier this month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration continued its forecast of 17 to 24 named storms this year , an “above-normal” number and a prediction in line with more than a dozen forecasts earlier in the year from experts at universities, private companies and government agencies.

Hurricane seasons produce 14 named storms on average from June 1 through Nov. 30.

The seasonal hurricane outlooks were notably aggressive, because forecasters looking at the start of the season saw a combination of circumstances that didn’t exist in records dating back to the mid-1800s: record warm water temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and the potential formation of the weather pattern known as La Niña.

La Niña occurs in the Pacific because of changing ocean temperatures, and it affects weather patterns globally.

When it is strong, it typically provides a calm environment in the Atlantic. This allows storms to develop more easily and to strengthen without interference from wind patterns that might otherwise keep them from organizing.

Reporting was contributed by Patricia Mazzei , Camille Baker , John Yoon , Hank Sanders , Yan Zhuang and Isabella Kwai

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and reporter for The Times who forecasts and covers extreme weather. More about Judson Jones