best places to visit in malaysia from singapore

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• 7 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia From Singapore That Will Leave You In Awe This 2024!

23 Mar 2023

You have Asian countries like India, Thailand, Indonesia and many more exotic beautiful lands that are famous vacation spots amongst travellers. However, there are places that showcase a combination of the culture and tradition of all these Asian destinations? The countries, Singapore and Malaysia, might have been separated a long time back but still, provide good support for tourism to each other. Both the countries also receive millions of tourists visiting because of the mesmerizing places and shows that are represented by the whole of Asia. These places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore will let you get a taste and virtual view of the stories behind almost every Asian culture. Another reason why tourists always make it a point to visit Malaysia while on a vacation in Singapore is because of its easy transport services. You can easily either book a flight, board a train or get on a bus to cover the distance between both the countries. The affordable pricing system in both countries will make your vacation a classy yet memorable trip.

Malaysia offers its tourists so many attractions that should definitely be visited. You have the informative museums that let you in on the untold history and culture of the Asian countries, the reef resorts that let you enjoy the view of the underwater marine life and corals by taking you out on a diving expedition and islands that take you on a speedboat adventure. So, take a look at these amazing tourist spots that will let you experience the best and the finest attractions in Malaysia.

7 Places To Visit In Malaysia From Singapore

Malaysia is popular for its raw stone cut caves and evergreen rainforests. However, if you ask the locals of the country, they would always point out the misty hill stations, the sandy beaches, islands with pristine blue waters and the colourful shopping districts. So, here are some of the best places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore that will let you get a taste of every aspect of Malaysia’s diversity and culture.

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1. Perhentian Island

Perhentian Island is amongst the other best places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore . It is a group of stunning, coral fringed islands where activities like fishing are strictly prohibited. The two main islands here are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. With many lodging options available on the island, the Perhentian Island have become a popular travel destination. 

Distance from Singapore : 520km How to reach Perhentian Island from Singapore : The cheapest way to get from Singapore to Perhentian Islands is by train and bus and ferry which costs approximately INR 3000. Other available mode of transport is to fly from Singapore Changi Airport to Sultan Ismail Petra Airport

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2. Langkawi Island

Langkawi Island is a beautiful archipelago which enthralls the tourists because of its azure blue water and exotic beaches. The famous UNESCO heritage site is known to attract tourists in large numbers and is also one of the famous places to visit in Malaysia near Singapore . The major attractions here include the famous cable car popular among kids as well as adults. 

Distance from Singapore : 715km How to reach Langkawi Island from Singapore : The most common way to reach Langkawi are via boat or flight. After landing in Langkawi, you’ll easily find an official taxi

3. Maxwell Hill

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Also known as Bukit Larut and poised at 1250 m above the sea-level hill, Maxwell Hill is oldest and less developed hill station in Malaysia and is 290 km away from Kuala Lumpur. However, it is surrounded by dense and lush green forests and offers stunning panoramic views of the west coast from Penang to Pangkor Island.

Travellers can also enjoy the lovely sights of petunias, roses, daisies, tulips and many other flowers planted here. A visit to Taiping Lake Gardens and Taiping Zoo should not be missed in your journey to Maxwell Hill.

Distance from Singapore : 626km How to reach Maxwell Hill from Singapore : One of the cheapest way to reach Bukit Larut from Singapore is by train while the fastest way is to fly

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4. Tamarind Hill

Part of the Tamarind Restaurant Group, Tamarind Hill is a famous restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. You will also find the groups Malaysian restaurants as a whole. It is one of the famous Malaysia attractions near Singapore. From the location, design, interior and ambience, the Tamarind Restaurant Group gives you a dining experience that takes you on an adventure away from the city. At Tamarind Hill, you can enjoy the best of Thai cuisine created by Chef Wanthana.

Distance from Singapore : 350km

5. Tenggol Island

Another splendid peninsular Malaysia dive site, Tenggol island is recommended mainly for experienced divers as the currents are quite strong. With some fantastic resorts and untouched corals to explore, this beautiful island just a 45-minute speedboat ride away is considered amongst the best places for scuba diving in Malaysia. Get ready to explore vibrant marine life at more than 20 spectacular dive spots with unforgettable underwater landscapes.

Distance from Singapore : 384km  How to reach Tenggol Island from Singapore : The cheapest way to get from Singapore to Tenggol Island is by bus while the fastest way to get here is by flight. However, there is no direct flight from Senai Airport to Kerteh Airport. 

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6. The Swallow Reef Resort

A little gem within the deep blue sea, fondly known as The Jewels of the Borneo Banks offers undisturbed diving adventure in safe water on Swallow Reef resort. Layang-Layang Resort (Swallow Reef Resort) is a 3-star private Island Resort which is designed perfectly and built along with the concept of the traditional longhouse on this coral-blessed island. With only the Swallow Reef Hotel on the island, Layang Layang resort offers an extraordinary local stay experience enveloped in new generation comforts and convenience. There are 86 new traditionally renovated rooms reflecting the beautiful style of Borneo tribes.

All the accommodations like refrigerators, telephones, private hot showers and TVs with air-conditioned rooms make the stay more convenient. Fax and international telephone services are also available. There are many areas to socialize and relax on the resort with an enormous restaurant serving traditional Asian and Continental fare as well as a bar, reading corner and conference room. The resort can host up to 200 people for seminars, banquets, meetings, conferences and group functions.

Distance from Singapore : 1296km

What Makes Swallow Reef Malaysia The Most Favorite Destination Among Scuba Divers?

7. National Museum

Often confused with the textile museum, the National Museum, is yet another must-visit museum in Malaysia. It offers a good primer on the country’s history right from its prehistoric times to the present day. Malaysia’s history, as well as geological features and geography, are all tackled in one gallery that also features a beautiful and realistic replica of the 11,000-year-old Perak man.

The museum also houses one wing of modern history which is rather interesting and informative. This wing has recreations of royal beds, temple walls, and even ceremonial garb dating to several hundred years. It is indeed one of the best places in Malaysia near Singapore. 

Distance from Singapore : 350km How to reach National Museum from Singapore : In order to reach Kuala Lumpur from Singapore, you can either opt for buses, flight or train. Whichever mode of transport you choose, after landing you’ll easily find a taxi  

Top 7 Museums In Malaysia That Are Sure To Leave You Enchanted!

The variety of places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore is enamouring and uncommon. There are many other awesome places to visit in the “Land of Mountains’. As the widely popular nickname suggests, Malaysia has numerous mountains like mount Korbu and mount Tahan. It also has colourful and towering skyscrapers like the Petronas Twin Towers and shopping districts. The country is filled with so many exhilarating activities that tourists can participate in, like snorkelling and scuba diving. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your family and friends and plan a trip to Malaysia for a fun-filled visit to knowledge-based museums, reef resorts, and extraordinary hill stations.

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Malaysia From Singapore

Can I travel from Singapore to Malaysia?

Yes, you can definitely travel from Singapore to Malaysia. You can take a train from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur. As far as visa is concerned, Indians can get a visa on arrival for a nominal fee if they are traveling from Singapore.

Where should I go for a short trip in Malaysia?

You will find plenty of things to do in Malaysia on weekends if you are here for a long time. Here are a few places where you can take an impromptu day trip: 1. Bentong: a laid back town with natural hot springs 2. Pulau Ketam: for mouthwatering seafood 3. Brinchang: For gorgeous landscapes and verdant tea plantations

Which is the best place to visit Malaysia or Singapore?

Both Malaysia and Singapore are amazing places to take a vacation. Even though these countries are adjacent to each other, they offer unique experiences. Take these pointers to choose one destination over another: Best time: For Singapore, it is from February to April. The best time to visit Malaysia differ from coast to coast. Landscape: Singapore is a modern island nation with towering skyscrapers and bustling neighbourhoods. Malaysia offers you both; modern cities and verdant landscapes. Accessibility: Both have airline connecting from all over the world. However, flights to SIngapore are cheaper than flights to Malaysia. Beach life: Malaysia has more beautiful beaches than Singapore

Is Malaysia worth visiting?

Yes, Malaysia is an amazing country with modern cities and picturesque islands. In fact, it is one of the most popular destinations in SouthEast Asia.

Is Malaysia expensive to visit?

A week-long trip to Malaysia will cost you around INR 70,000 per person if you opt for 3 star hotels and book your flights well in time. It is definitely cheaper than a lot of countries if not a budget-destination.

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Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

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Are you planning a day trip to Malaysia from Singapore?

If so, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about crossing the Singapore-Malaysia border, and what awaits you once you’re there.

So, grab a cup of tea (or perhaps some Kopi-O, the local Singaporean coffee), and let’s dive in.

Brief Overview Of This Guide

We’ll begin by addressing some essential points, such as understanding the distance and travel time between these two Southeast Asian destinations, along with the legal and visa considerations.

We’ll then examine the best ways to travel from Singapore to Malaysia, and vice versa, discussing the pros and cons of each method.

But what good is a day trip if you don’t know what to do or see once you arrive? We’ll provide an overview of must-see destinations in Malaysia perfect for a day trip. From Kuala Lumpur’s impressive skyline to Johor Bahru’s historical wonders, there’s something for every type of traveller.

We will also delve into Malaysia’s mouth-watering cuisine, unique culture, and must-have souvenirs.

Then, we’ll share some practical tips on currency exchange, cultural etiquette, and internet connectivity, along with health and vaccination requirements.

Finally, as your day draws to a close, we’ll guide you back across the border to Singapore, advising you on what to know about the return trip.

Background Information on Malaysia and Singapore

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of the trip, let’s take a moment to appreciate the unique history and culture of these two nations.

Singapore, a high-tech city-state known for its iconic attractions , multicultural diversity, impeccable cleanliness, and stunning skyline, is a global financial hub. It’s also a renowned destination for foodies, thanks to its rich, multi-cultural food . From hawker centres serving Laksa and Hainanese Chicken Rice to Michelin-starred restaurants, Singapore offers a gastronomic journey like no other.

Just a causeway away, you’ll find Malaysia, a country teeming with vibrant culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. Its capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a bustling metropolis, boasting iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers. Outside the capital, you’ll find idyllic beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lush rainforests, and charming historic towns.

Travelling between these two neighbours, each with its distinct character and charm promises to be an adventure of a lifetime.

Planning Your Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

Before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to have a well-planned itinerary.

In this section, we’ll help you understand the logistics of your trip, the legalities involved, and the best time to visit Malaysia.

Understanding the Distance and Travel Time

Geographically, Singapore and Malaysia share a land and sea border, making the commute between these two nations relatively quick and easy.

However, the travel time greatly depends on your chosen mode of transportation and your intended destination in Malaysia.

For instance, if you plan to visit Johor Bahru, the nearest city in Malaysia to Singapore, it would take you around 30 minutes to an hour via car or bus, excluding immigration clearance time. On the other hand, if Kuala Lumpur is your destination, it will take approximately 5 – 6 hours by car or bus, and around 1 hour by plane.

Keep in mind that these times can fluctuate depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the time it takes to clear customs and immigration.

Legal and Visa Considerations

When it comes to crossing borders, one must not forget the legalities. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Malaysia.

Citizens of many countries, including Singapore, can enter Malaysia for tourism purposes without a visa for stays up to 30 or 90 days. However, immigration rules can change, so it’s always best to check the current visa requirements from official sources or consult with your travel agency.

Additionally, don’t forget to check the latest Covid-19 travel advisories and safety measures. Health protocols and requirements can vary over time, and it’s crucial to stay updated to ensure a smooth trip.

Best Time to Visit Malaysia from Singapore

Being tropical countries, both Singapore and Malaysia are warm throughout the year, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The weather, therefore, may not be a significant factor in deciding when to make your trip. However, being aware of the monsoon seasons might help you avoid heavy rains and potential disruptions to your plans.

Typically, the best time to visit West Malaysia (where Kuala Lumpur and Malacca are located) is between December and February when the weather is drier and cooler. For Johor Bahru, anytime outside the monsoon months (November to February) would be ideal.

However, one of the charms of Malaysia is its year-round festive atmosphere. Various cultural festivals such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and Christmas are celebrated grandly. Aligning your visit with these festivities could add an extra layer of cultural immersion to your trip.

Remember, a well-planned trip is often a successful one. So take your time, consider your options, and gear up for the adventure that awaits.

In the next sections, we’ll dive into the different travel methods and must-see destinations in Malaysia for your day trip.

How to Travel from Singapore to Malaysia

One of the key factors that make a day trip from Singapore to Malaysia possible and convenient is the excellent connectivity between the two countries.

There are several options to consider when planning your trip, each with its unique advantages.

Taking a bus to Malaysia from Singapore is a popular choice for many travellers due to its cost-effectiveness, comfort, and scenic route it offers.

Different Bus Services

There are numerous bus services operating between Singapore and various destinations in Malaysia. Here are a few notable ones:

• Causeway Link : This bus service operates numerous routes between Singapore and Johor Bahru.
• Transtar Travel : They provide luxury coach services from Singapore to numerous cities in Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur and Malacca.
• Konsortium : This is another popular luxury coach operator with various pick-up points around Singapore and multiple drop-off locations in Malaysia.
• Grassland Express & Tours : They offer bus services from Singapore to a variety of Malaysian destinations.

🚍 Book Singapore-Malaysia Bus Tickets Online 🚍

Each service offers different levels of comfort and amenities, from basic air-conditioned buses to luxury coaches with personal entertainment systems and more legroom.

Costs and Travel Time

The cost and travel time vary depending on your destination. For example, a bus trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru can cost around SGD 6 – 15 and take 30 minutes to an hour (excluding immigration clearance time). On the other hand, a bus ride from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur usually takes about 5 to 6 hours and can cost between SGD 30 – 80, depending on the level of luxury you opt for.

Tips and Tricks

• Booking Tickets : You can book tickets online in advance, especially during peak travel periods or public holidays.
• Departure Point : Buses depart from various points in Singapore, including Bugis, Orchard, Little India, and more. Choose the most convenient pick-up location for you.
• Immigration Clearance : Buses will stop at both Singapore and Malaysia immigration checkpoints. Remember to take all your belongings with you as you may not re-board the same bus after immigration.
• Travel Light : If possible, travel light. Not only will this make immigration clearance smoother, but it’ll also be more convenient for you as you navigate through the day.
• Pack Snacks : Pack some snacks and drinks for the journey, especially if you’re travelling to further destinations like Kuala Lumpur.

Remember, the journey is part of the adventure! So sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as you make your way from the vibrant cityscape of Singapore to the diverse landscapes of Malaysia.

Travelling by train offers a unique and enjoyable experience, allowing you to take in the beautiful countryside views at a leisurely pace.

Train Services Available

Currently, KTM (Keretapi Tanah Melayu) is the main train operator providing services between Singapore and Malaysia. There are typically two types of services: the Shuttle Tebrau and the intercity trains.

• Shuttle Tebrau : This is a popular option for those planning to visit Johor Bahru. The service runs multiple times a day between JB Sentral in Johor Bahru and Woodlands in Singapore.
• Intercity Trains : For those planning to travel further into Malaysia, intercity trains can take you to various cities, including Kuala Lumpur and even up to the Thai border.
• Shuttle Tebrau : The journey between JB Sentral and Woodlands takes approximately 5 minutes, making it the fastest land crossing between Singapore and Malaysia. Tickets cost around MYR 5 (< SGD 2).
• Intercity Trains : The cost and travel time for intercity trains depend on your final destination. As an example, the trip from Gemas (the nearest to Johor) to Kuala Lumpur by train can take about 2 hours and 30 minutes and cost approximately SGD 10.
• Advance Booking : Similar to bus travel, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, particularly during the holiday season.
• Arrive Early : Be sure to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure time, as you’ll need to go through immigration clearance.
• Carry Essentials : Carry some water and snacks, especially for longer journeys. Also, remember to keep your passport and ticket within easy reach.
• Enjoy the View : One of the advantages of train travel is the scenic route. Make sure to grab a window seat and enjoy the journey as you pass through plantations, traditional villages, and rolling landscapes.

Travelling by car from Singapore to Malaysia offers flexibility and convenience, particularly for those who prefer setting their own pace or are travelling with family or a group of friends.

Car Rental Services

Several car rental companies in Singapore allow you to drive their vehicles into Malaysia. Among them are popular international brands like Hertz, Avis, and Budget, as well as local companies like Hawk and Drive.sg. Do note that some companies may charge an additional fee for cross-border trips.

🚘 Rent A Car Online 🚘

Before renting a car, ensure that you have the necessary documentation, including a valid driver’s license and International Driving Permit if required. Also, check the rental company’s policies regarding cross-border travel and insurance coverage.

Travel Time and Routes

The time it takes to drive from Singapore to Malaysia largely depends on your specific destination, traffic conditions, and the route you choose.

• For Johor Bahru, it can take as little as 30 minutes to an hour via the Causeway or the Second Link.
• Kuala Lumpur is approximately 350 kilometres away from Singapore and can be reached in about 5 to 6 hours via the North-South Expressway.

Tips for Driving in Malaysia

• Understand the Road Rules : Familiarise yourself with the local road rules and signs. In Malaysia, you’ll be driving on the left-hand side of the road.
• Toll Payments : The expressways in Malaysia have toll booths. Make sure you have enough Malaysian Ringgit or a Touch ‘n Go card for toll payments.
• Keep Your Documents Handy : Always carry your passport, driver’s license, International Driving Permit (if required), and vehicle documents when crossing the border.
• Check Fuel and Vehicle Condition : Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel for the journey and is in good condition. Also, remember that it’s illegal in Malaysia to carry extra petrol in a can.
• Plan Your Journey : Especially if you’re driving to further destinations like Kuala Lumpur or Malacca, plan your route and rest stops in advance.

Driving across the border offers an exciting opportunity to explore Malaysia’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. Just ensure you’re well-prepared, and you’ll have a great road trip adventure.

For those wishing to head to the coastal and island regions of Malaysia, taking a ferry can be a convenient and enjoyable option.

Ferry Services Available

Several ferry services operate between Singapore and Malaysia, most of which connect Singapore to the Malaysian state of Johor. Here are some of the main ones:

• Limbongan Maju : This ferry service runs between Changi Point Ferry Terminal in Singapore and Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal in Johor.
• Berlian Ferries : Berlian Ferries operates a route between Changi Ferry Terminal in Singapore and Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal in Johor.
• Penguin Ferry Services : This service provides ferry rides from Harbourfront Centre in Singapore to Batam Centre and Sekupang in Indonesia, from where you can catch a connecting ferry to Johor.

Please note that schedules and services may change due to weather conditions, maintenance, or other factors, so it’s always best to check directly with the ferry companies for the latest information.

The ferry trip from Singapore to Johor takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the exact route. Costs vary but are typically in the range of SGD 20 – 40 per person one way.

• Book in Advance : Especially during holidays and weekends, ferries can fill up quickly. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
• Arrive Early : Similar to train and bus travel, you need to arrive at the ferry terminal early for immigration procedures.
• Motion Sickness : If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking preventative measures, especially during monsoon season when the sea can be rougher.
• Keep Essentials Handy : Keep your passport and ticket within easy reach for immigration purposes. Also, it’s a good idea to pack light and bring only essential items for a day trip.

Whether you prefer the speed of a ferry or the leisurely pace of a train, the choice is yours. Each mode of transport provides a different perspective of the journey and a unique travel experience.

If you prefer to explore Malaysia without the hassles of planning an itinerary or navigating unfamiliar roads, a guided tour can be an excellent choice. They often include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a curated list of attractions, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

Tour Services Available

Several companies offer guided day tours from Singapore to Malaysia. These tours generally include transportation, a guide, and a visit to various points of interest. Here are a few options:

• LUXURY First Class Bus: Kuala Lumpur (KL) fully-guided day tour from Singapore : A comfortable journey to the bustling capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, with guided visits to top attractions such as the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves.
• From Singapore: Private Kuala Lumpur guided day tour + SKY DINING : This tour combines sightseeing in Kuala Lumpur with a unique sky dining experience, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Legoland Malaysia day tour with Singapore Hotel Pickup : Venture out of Singapore and enjoy a full day in Legoland Malaysia. Admission to 3 Parks is included in the tour!
• Private Full-Day Malacca Tour from Singapore : Learn about the history and culture of Malacca from the knowledgeable guide.
• LUXURY Private day tour: Kuala Lumpur & Malacca from Singapore : Go on a journey up north to Malaysia with this fully guided private day tour from Singapore and visit Malacca and Kuala Lumpur.

The cost and duration of the tours can vary widely depending on the specific itinerary, the type of transportation, and whether meals or admission fees to attractions are included. For example, the Kuala Lumpur day tours generally take about 17-19 hours due to the travel time and the number of attractions covered. The costs can range anywhere from SGD 300 to SGD 1000 for a group, again depending on the inclusions.

• Book in Advance : Guided tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. To secure your spot, it’s recommended to book well in advance.
• Read Reviews : Before booking a tour, read reviews from other travelers to get a sense of the quality of the tour guide, the pacing of the itinerary, and the overall experience.
• Pack Essentials : Even though most things will be taken care of, remember to bring essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection. Also, wear comfortable shoes as most tours involve a fair amount of walking.
• Clarify Inclusions : Be sure to understand what’s included in the tour price and what’s not. This could include meals, entrance fees, and tips for the guide.

Guided tours can provide an enriching and convenient way to explore Malaysia. By handling the logistics, they allow you to focus on experiencing and enjoying your destination.

Whether you’re keen on exploring the cityscapes of Kuala Lumpur or the historic streets of Malacca, there’s likely a tour that fits your interests.

Must-See Destinations in Malaysia for a Day Trip

A day trip to Malaysia presents an opportunity to witness the country’s cultural diversity, stunning architecture, and natural beauty.

Here are some must-see destinations in Malaysia that you can explore on a day trip from Singapore.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s bustling capital, is a mesmerizing blend of modernity and tradition.

Here are some attractions you shouldn’t miss:

1. Petronas Towers

Standing tall as the iconic symbol of Kuala Lumpur, the Petronas Towers were once the tallest buildings in the world. Visit the Skybridge and observation deck for stunning panoramic views of the city.

2. KLCC Park

Located at the foot of the Petronas Towers, KLCC Park is a lush, 50-acre green space with walking paths, water features, and a children’s playground. It’s a lovely spot to unwind amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

3. Batu Caves

Just north of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves are a series of limestone caves and cave temples, with the towering statue of Lord Murugan welcoming visitors at the entrance. Be prepared for a steep climb up the colorful 272-step staircase.

🤩 Book A Flexible Day & Night Car Tour from Singapore 🤩

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru, just across the causeway from Singapore, offers a variety of attractions that make for a perfect day trip.

1. Johor Zoo

One of the first zoos to be established in Southeast Asia, Johor Zoo houses various species of fauna and offers interactive experiences such as feeding sessions.

2. Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

This mosque, one of the oldest in Malaysia, is a beautiful blend of Victorian and Moorish architecture. Its setting on top of a hill offers a stunning view of the Straits of Johor.

3. Legoland Malaysia

A fantastic destination for families, Legoland Malaysia is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and includes a water park, various rides, and impressive Lego structures.

🤩 Get A LEGOLAND Malaysia Ticket 🤩

4. Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is a thrilling water park located in Desaru, Johor, Malaysia. It features an array of exhilarating water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and interactive water play areas, providing fun and excitement for visitors of all ages.

🤩 Book Tickets To Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast 🤩

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca is rich in history and culture and offers a slower-paced day trip option.

1. A’Famosa Fortress

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, A’Famosa is one of the oldest surviving European architectural structures in Asia. The Porta de Santiago gate is the most well-known part of the fort today.

2. Jonker Street Night Market

Taking place every Friday-Sunday, the Jonker Street Night Market is a lively bazaar offering everything from street food and trinkets to clothing and crafts.

3. The Stadthuys

Known for its red exterior, The Stadthuys is a historic Dutch square in the heart of Malacca. It houses the Malacca Museum, which offers insights into Malacca’s rich past.

🤩 Kuala Lumpur & Malacca Luxury Day Tour from Singapore 🤩

These destinations provide just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of experiences that Malaysia offers. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the urban vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur, the family-friendly fun of Johor Bahru, or the historical charm of Malacca, you’re bound to have an unforgettable day trip.

Planning Your Itinerary According to Your Interests

Every traveller is unique, and what might appeal to one might not appeal to another.

That’s why it’s important to plan your itinerary based on your personal interests. Here’s a brief guide on how to do that:

1. History and Culture Enthusiasts

If you love history and culture, Malacca should be your top choice. From the Dutch Stadthuys and the Portuguese A’Famosa Fortress to the vibrant Jonker Street Night Market, you’ll be immersed in the rich tapestry of cultures that have influenced this UNESCO World Heritage City.

In Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves offer a glimpse into the country’s Hindu heritage, and the Islamic Arts Museum showcases stunning Islamic decorative arts.

2. Architecture and Urban Explorers

For those who love architecture and urban landscapes, Kuala Lumpur is a paradise. The city boasts architectural marvels like the Petronas Towers and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. The colourful stairs of Batu Caves and the diverse cityscape can also be fascinating. In Johor Bahru, the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque is a must-see architectural gem.

3. Nature and Outdoor Lovers

Outdoor enthusiasts should head to KLCC Park in Kuala Lumpur for a refreshing break amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. If you don’t mind venturing a bit further, the Taman Negara National Park is a heaven for nature lovers. In Johor Bahru, the Johor Botanic Gardens offer tranquil trails and a variety of flora.

🤩 Join A Taman Negara National Park Day Tour 🤩

4. Families with Kids

Travelling with kids? Johor Bahru should be on your list. The city is home to family-friendly attractions like Legoland Malaysia and Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast . In Kuala Lumpur, the Petrosains Discovery Centre in the Petronas Towers is an interactive science discovery centre that will keep kids engaged and entertained.

🤩 Book A Legoland Malaysia Day Tour With Singapore Hotel Pickup 🤩

If trying local cuisines is high on your list, all three cities have something to offer. Malacca’s Jonker Street Night Market is known for its delicious street food, including Nyonya-Baba cuisine—a unique blend of Chinese and Malay cooking styles. In Kuala Lumpur, explore the food stalls at Jalan Alor for a taste of local delicacies.

🤩 Join The 10 Tastings of Kuala Lumpur With Locals 🤩

Remember, these are just suggestions. Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences. After all, the best travel experiences are often those that resonate with your personal interests and passions.

Malaysian Food and Culture

A trip to Malaysia is incomplete without diving into its rich food scene and understanding its vibrant culture. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect.

Famous Malaysian Dishes to Try

Malaysian cuisine is a delightful mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, creating a unique and flavorful blend. Here are some dishes you shouldn’t miss:

• Nasi Lemak : Considered the national dish of Malaysia, Nasi Lemak is fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with sambal (spicy sauce), anchovies, peanuts, and boiled egg.
• Satay : These are skewers of marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) that are grilled to perfection and served with a peanut sauce.
• Char Kuey Teow : A popular noodle dish stir-fried in a dark soy sauce with prawns, beansprouts, chives, and sometimes Chinese sausage and fish cake.
• Laksa : This spicy noodle soup comes in various types, but the two most popular are Penang Assam Laksa (fish-based sour soup) and Curry Laksa, which has a coconut curry soup base.
• Roti Canai : A type of Indian-influenced flatbread that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect for dipping in curry sauces.

Understanding the Malaysian Culture

Malaysia is a multicultural and multiconfessional country, with Malays, Chinese, and Indians making up the majority of the population. This diversity is reflected in its culture, which is a blend of various traditions and influences.

Malaysia is also known for its art forms, including traditional dance and music like the graceful Mak Yong theatre, the martial art form Silat, and the mesmerizing gamelan music. Malaysian hospitality is renowned worldwide, and visitors often find themselves welcomed with open arms.

Shopping and Souvenirs

From bustling markets to high-end malls, shopping in Malaysia caters to all tastes and budgets. Here are a few souvenirs to look out for:

• Batik : This traditional fabric, with beautiful patterns created using a wax-resist dyeing technique, can be made into clothing, tablecloths, or wall hangings.
• Pewter Goods : Malaysia is one of the biggest producers of pewter, and items like mugs, plates, and jewelry make excellent souvenirs.
• Local Spices and Snacks : Think of curry powders, local coffee, or sweet and savory snacks like dodol and murukku.
• Handicrafts : Items like woven baskets, wooden carvings, and beadwork reflect the skills of local artisans.

Exploring the food and culture is a crucial part of any trip to Malaysia. So, whether you’re savouring a bowl of Laksa, bargaining at a local market, or getting lost in the rhythm of a traditional dance, remember to soak in every moment of your Malaysian adventure.

Practical Information and Travel Tips

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable day trip to Malaysia, here are some practical tips and information.

Currency Exchange

The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Currency exchange services are readily available at banks, airports or borders, and dedicated exchange bureaus in Singapore and Malaysia. It’s often a good idea to carry some cash as not all places, especially smaller shops and street vendors, accept credit cards.

Cultural Etiquettes and Safety Tips

Respect for local culture is vital wherever you travel. In Malaysia, dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left is traditionally seen as impure. It’s also recommended to avoid public displays of affection.

Malaysia is generally safe for travellers, but as with any destination, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Mobile and Internet Connectivity

Prepaid SIM cards are widely available in Malaysia and can be bought at the airport, convenience stores, and official telecom company stores. Malaysia has a strong network infrastructure, so internet coverage is generally good, particularly in cities.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

As of my last update in May 2023, there are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers entering Malaysia from Singapore. However, it’s always a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccines, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot.

Ensure to check the latest travel advisories from reliable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or your country’s foreign travel department.

Travel Insurance

Consider getting travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost belongings. Check whether the policy covers more than one country.

Returning to Singapore

After a fantastic day exploring Malaysia’s sights and delights, it’s time to head back to Singapore. Here’s some essential information to keep in mind for your return journey:

Travelling Back to Singapore: What to Know

The return journey from Malaysia to Singapore is usually straightforward. You can travel back the same way you came – by bus, train, car, ferry, or tour.

Do keep in mind the travel times and make sure to check the last departure times if you are using public transport. Also, remember that immigration can take a while, especially during peak times, so factor that into your travel schedule.

Just as when you left Singapore, you’ll need to go through immigration controls when you return. Ensure you have all your travel documents, including your passport and any necessary visas, ready for inspection.

Customs Regulations and Duty-free Shopping

Singapore has strict customs regulations. Make sure you are aware of the duty-free concession limits and the list of prohibited and controlled goods.

Duty-free shopping can be a great way to make some savings. You’ll find duty-free shops at the airports and some border crossings. Just remember to keep any receipts, as you may need to show them at customs.

Lastly, always declare goods that exceed your duty-free concession or goods that are controlled or subject to GST. Failure to do so could result in penalties.

Returning to Singapore after your day trip to Malaysia, you’ll likely be tired but filled with unforgettable memories. Remember, the most important part of any trip is to enjoy the journey and have fun!

Recap On Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

Taking a day trip from Singapore to Malaysia can be an exciting and rewarding experience and it’s more than possible to do in one day.

You’ll have the chance to explore vibrant cities like Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, or Malacca, visit iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Towers or the Batu Caves, and immerse yourself in the Malaysian culture.

Remember to plan your trip keeping in mind the distance, travel time, and legal considerations. Choose the mode of transport that suits your convenience and preferences, whether it’s by bus, train, car, ferry, or a guided tour. The key to a memorable day trip lies in effective planning and flexibility.

Final Thoughts and Suggestions

While a day trip gives you a brief glimpse into the fascinating world of Malaysia, it’s worth noting that there’s so much more to explore in this diverse country.

Perhaps this day trip might inspire you to plan a longer visit in the future 😉

No matter how you choose to spend your day, remember to respect the local customs and traditions, be mindful of your surroundings, and most importantly, enjoy every moment. After all, the beauty of travel lies in the experiences you gather and the memories you create.

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Singapore Malaysia Itinerary: 4-12 days Guide

Have you always wanted to travel to Singapore and Malaysia but don’t know how to plan your trip? Well, I’ve created the perfect Singapore and Malaysia itinerary that you can easily modify to your liking. 

Singapore’s well-connected airport and awesome transportation system make it easy to get around while Malaysia’s diverse culture, history, and buzzing cities serve as a great introduction to Southeast Asia. 

Since Singapore and Malaysia are located right next to each other, planning a trip to both countries doesn’t require a huge amount of money. 

Whether you have only 4 days or up to 12 days, this ultimate Singapore Malaysia itinerary will show you how to plan an awesome trip with all the best places to visit and how to get around while minimizing your costs. 

Top Experiences and Tours in Singapore & Malaysia

• Gardens by the Bay admission tickets
• Petronas Twin Towers skip-the-line tickets
• Batu Caves guided tour with hotel transfers
• Langkawi Skycab and Skybridge admission ticket

Book cheap bus tickets from Singapore to Malaysia by clicking here .

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Table of Contents

Day by day Singapore and Malaysia trip itinerary 

• Day 1-3: Singapore 
• Day 4: Melaka 
• Day 5-6: Kuala Lumpur 
• Day 7-8: Ipoh 
• Day 9-10: Penang 
• Day 11-12: Langkawi 

Day 1 – Singapore 

Modern architecture, unusual skyscrapers, avatar-like gardens, cheap and delicious food, an efficient transportation system, the list goes on! While Singapore is slightly more expensive than Malaysia, it’s still worth visiting and I’ll show you a few tricks on how to save money! 

Jewel Changi Airport 

Start off with the one thing you can’t miss on your Singapore and Malaysia itinerary: The Jewel! If you’re landing in Terminal 1, you’ll find the Jewel and HSBC Rain Vortex as soon as you get out of Customs. It’s one of the tallest indoor waterfalls in the world and is totally free to visit! 

Apart from seeing the waterfall, there are lots of other attractions at the Jewel such as the canopy park, mirror maze, hedge maze, bouncing net, and more. These do require an entrance ticket that you can book here.

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS TO THE ATTRACTIONS AT JEWEL CHANGI

The Jewel is open 24/7 but the Rain Vortex is operational from 11 a.m to 10 p.m from Monday to Thursday and from 10 a.m to 10 p.m from Friday to Saturday. There’s also a Light and Sound show every night at 8 p.m and 9 p.m from Monday to Thursday with an additional show at 10 p.m from Friday to Sunday.

How to get from Changi Airport to the city center? 

Private transfer.

If you’re traveling with a group, the most convenient option is to book a private airport transfer . The driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall and take you directly to your hotel.

CHECK PRICE FOR A PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFER

One of the cheapest ways to get to the city center is by using the MRT. To be more cost-effective, make sure to buy a  Singapore Tourist Pass for 3 days which costs only S$34 inclusive of a refundable deposit of S$10. The pass is also available for 1 and 2 days.  

Alternatively, you can buy a  Singapore Travel Card  which is similar to an EZ-link card.

Just follow the signs saying “Train to City”. You can get between each terminal for free by using the Skytrain until you reach the main MRT terminal where you can buy your ticket or tourist pass. 

Cheaper than regular taxis, Grab is very affordable and a great way to get to the city if you’re short on time.

Airport shuttle/bus 

For about S$ 10, you can book a shuttle that will drop you off at most hotels in the Downtown area. The airport shuttle departs every 15 minutes. Find out more here .  

Kampong Glam and Haji Lane 

After you’re done at Changi Airport, it’s time to explore Kampong Glam which is also known as Singapore’s Arabic Quarter. This area is full of traditional shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and more.  

As you walk around, you’ll notice the golden domes of the  Masjid Sultan,  one of the largest Mosques in Singapore.  The Mosque is open from Monday to Saturday and is free to visit outside of prayer times (check their official website here for more info).

Make sure to also explore  Haji Lane  which is famous for its trendy boutiques, cafés, and colorful street art.    

Shopping at Bugis   

For those looking for cheap deals, head to  Bugis Street Market.  This market consists of affordable shops selling cute clothes and souvenirs. There’s also a section selling food and drinks if you want to have lunch. 

If instead, you’re looking for international brands, make your way to Bugis Junction and Bugis+ shopping malls.

Little India  

From Bugis, take the downtown line to Little India. Spend some time walking around the neighborhood to explore the street arts, colorful buildings and temples. The most famous building in Little India is without a doubt the  Tan Teng Niah House  which is a very popular Instagram spot. 

For food and shopping, head to  Tekka  Center  which is packed with rows of shops selling Indian clothes and accessories.  

The Tekka Center also has a food court section serving all sorts of delicious Indian and Chinese dishes including roti prata, murtabak and chicken chop noodles.   

If you have enough time, it’s also worth checking out  Mustafa Center  which is open 24/7. 

Related post: 29 most beautiful Instagrammable locations in Singapore

Where to stay in Singapore?

The southbridge hotel  .

Located in the heart of Chinatown, just a few meters from the MRT station, The Southbridge Hotel is perfect for couples and solo travelers alike. 

While the rooms are quite small, the hotel is clean and modern and each room has a TV, coffee station, air-conditioning and a private bathroom. 

CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

Atlantis Pod @ Chinatown  

Also located close to the Chinatown MRT,  Atlantis Pod  is perfect for those looking for a budget hotel. Great for solo travelers, each room has individual pods that look like a spaceship! You’ll get access to a shared bathroom, fridge, toaster and free Wi-Fi. 

Prices start from US$ 20 for a single pod, including free breakfast. There are two other Atlantis Pods in Little India and  Bugis as well.   

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN SINGAPORE

Day 2 – Singapore 

Wake up bright and early, on the 2 nd  day of your Singapore Malaysia itinerary to explore the Marina Bay area. Most of Singapore’s top attractions are located in this area, so you’ll most likely spend the whole day here.  

Merlion, Esplanade Walk and Helix Bridge  

Start off with the Merlion which is a half lion and half fish statue and also the country’s Mascot. Keep in mind that it’s a very popular attraction so an early start is advisable.  

Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands

From the Merlion, turn left and head towards the DNA-shaped Helix Bridge. From there you’ll get a panoramic view of the esplanade,  Art Science Museum  and the  Marina Bay Sands .      

If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the Singapore skyline, you can visit the  Skypark observation deck at Marina Bay Sands. 

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO SKYPARK

Skypark opening hours : 11 a.m to 9 p.m, daily

Tip : If you want to visit several attractions in Singapore, I recommend getting the Klook Pass Singapore to get discounted rates.

Gardens by the Bay   

From the Marina Bay Sands, it should take about 10 minutes to walk to the Gardens by the Bay . Make sure you get to the  Cloud Forest  at exactly 9 a.m to get a chance to view the 35-meter waterfall without the crowds.  

Take the lift to the Lost World to see the waterfall from above and walk along the suspended walkway. 

Next head over to the  Flower Dome  which is another conservatory with a collection of flowers and plants from all over the world. Just make sure to book your tickets online as they may sell out.

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR CLOUD FOREST AND FLOWER DOME

Cloud Forest and Flower Dome opening hours : 9 a.m to 9 p.m daily      

Next, you can just spend the rest of the day exploring the Supertree grove and the other free gardens. If you want to walk along the OCBC Skyway which is a suspended walkway that connects two of the Supertrees, tickets cost S$ 8 for adults and S$ 5 for children. 

Gardens by the Bay opening hours : 5 a.m to 2 a.m daily 

Spectra Light and Garden Rhapsody Show  

As it starts getting dark, watch the sunset on the esplanade before making your way to the Marina Bay Sands where you can watch the Spectra Light and Water Show. For 15 minutes straight you’ll be mesmerized by the laser lights projecting images over the water spray, it’s without a doubt one of the best things to do in Marina Bay !  

Finally, go back to the Gardens by the Bay just in time for the Garden Rhapsody show to see the Supertrees illuminated by colorful lights. 

Showtimes:  

• Spectra Light and Water show : 8 p.m and 9 p.m every night with additional shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 p.m  
• Garden Rhapsody show : 7:45 p.m and 8:45 p.m every night 

Related post:  What to do in Marina Bay Singapore

Day 3 – Singapore 

Sentosa island  .

Sentosa is an island resort particularly popular among families with kids. You can choose to visit Universal Studios  or just chill at either Siloso, Palawan or Tanjong Beach.  

Keep in mind that food and drinks on the island are quite expensive, so it’s a good idea to bring your own picnic lunch. 

There are three ways to get to Sentosa Island: 

• By foot:  Take the boardwalk from Vivo City which is about a 15-minute walk. Once you’re on the island, you can then use the Sentosa Express and a bus/tram (both free). 
• Cable car:  This is the most scenic way to get to Sentosa. Tickets for the cable car from Mount Faber Station cost about US$ 18.20. ( get discounted tickets here ).  
• Monorail:  You can also take the Sentosa Express from 7 a.m to 12 a.m. The station is located at Vivo City, Lobby L, Level 3 and tickets cost about S$4 (US$ 2.80). 

You can then take Sentosa Express for free to get back to Singapore. 

Chinatown  

For the afternoon, check out Chinatown, a must-visit on any  Singapore itinerary ! Here are the best attractions in Chinatown:

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple : One of the most famous landmarks in Chinatown is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. The temple is free to visit and houses the Buddha’s tooth, several statues and artifacts. The temple is open daily from 7 a.m to 5 p.m. 

Chinatown Street Market : Explore Chinatown Street Market to shop for cheap souvenirs, electronics, clothes and food. You can find quite a few street art around here as well. 

Sri Mariamman Temple : Make sure to also visit Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple which is open daily from 6 a.m to 12 p.m and from 6 p.m to 9 p.m. 

Thian Hock Temple : This is one of the oldest temples in Singapore dedicated to the Chinese Goddess of the Seas. While the inside of the temple is made up of intricate carvings, the back is painted with a beautiful mural that narrates the story of Hokkien immigrants.  

Other things to do in Singapore:

Singapore Zoo   and  Night Safari : Especially great for kids who want to see over 300 species of birds and animals.  Check ticket price here

Singapore Flyer : For a panoramic view of Singapore’s skyline.  Check ticket price here

Singapore River Cruise : Take a leisurely ride along Marina Bay for a different perspective of Singapore’s landmarks.   Check ticket price here

SEA Aquarium at Sentosa : One of the world’s largest aquariums with over 1,000 species of marine life. Check ticket price here!

Clarke Quay:  If you want to experience the nightlife in Singapore, Clarke Quay is the place to be! 

Japanese and Chinese Gardens and Lakeside Garden:  While the gardens   are found outside of Singapore’s main tourist hub, they are worth adding to your itinerary. Stroll around to see the different plants, statues of Chinese heroes and even a Pagoda built on the lake! The gardens are open every day from 6 a.m to 11 p.m ( update : both the Japanese and Chinese gardens are currently under renovation but the Lakeside Garden is still open).

Singapore Botanic Garden:  The Singapore Botanic Garden houses many tropical plants as well as the National Orchid garden. Entrance is free except for the Orchid Garden which costs S$5 (US$ 3.50). The gardens are open daily from 5 a.m to 12 a.m. 

Old Hill Street Police Station (MCI Building) : The Old Hill Street Police Station is easily recognizable by its colorful windows and is one of the most popular Instagrammable spots in Singapore !   

Orchard Road : It’s the perfect place to do some high-end shopping. If you’re on a budget, it’s still a cool place to wander around and do some window shopping. 

Peranakan houses on Joo Chiat Road : Wander around Joo Chiat Road for a dose of pastel colors and intricate architecture. Although Joo Chiat Road is a very popular photo spot, it doesn’t attract too many people since it’s a bit far from the city center.  

Related post: How to spend 4 days in Singapore ?  

Day 4 – Melaka 

It’s now time to move on to Malaysia ! To save time, I recommend starting with Melaka (Malacca), a historic city known for its red-brick colonial buildings, street art and delicious food.  

Melaka is perfect for a short Malaysia getaway , so one day should be enough to explore the city, if not, you can spend around 2 hours the next morning exploring any attractions that you missed. 

How to get from Singapore to Melaka? 

I recommend taking the bus early in the morning to have enough time to explore Melaka. There are several bus stations around Singapore and you can just look for the one closest to your hotel. The journey lasts for about 4-5 hours depending on traffic.

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM SINGAPORE TO MELAKA HERE

Related post: Guide to taking the bus from Singapore to Melaka

Dutch Square 

The Dutch Square is where all the main attractions are located. Explore around to shop for souvenirs and make sure to take a picture with the “I love Melaka” sign! 

You can also take a ride on the colorful rickshaws around Dutch Square. A ride costs about RM 40 (US$ 9.15) and will take you to all the nearby attractions. 

Christ Church 

The Christ Church is one of the oldest Protestant Churches in Malaysia. Built by the Dutch in the 1700s, it’s hard not to miss the imposing red building.  

Stadthuys 

If you’re a history buff and want to learn more about Melaka, make sure to visit the Stadthuys. The entrance costs only RM 10 (US 2.30). 

St Paul’s Hill  

From the Stadthuys, take the stairs up to St Paul’s Hill and Church. The Church was built in honor of the Virgin Mary but unfortunately, it has been partially destroyed and only the statue of St Paul and a few ruins are left. St Paul’s Hill still offers a great lookout point over Melaka. 

A’Famosa Fort 

Next, take the other set of stairs located on the side of St Paul’s Church to get down to A’Famosa Fort. The Fort was built by the Portuguese in the 1500s and is an interesting place to visit to get a glimpse into the history of Melaka. 

I highly recommend going on a hunt for street art in Malacca which can be found mainly along the river bank and all over town. 

Related post: Where to find street art in Melaka Malaysia?

Menara Taming Sari 

Head over to the Menara Taming Sari which is a revolving tower providing incredible 360-degree views over Melaka City. The tower is open from   10 a.m to 11 p.m and costs RM 23 (US$ 5.30) for adults and RM 15 (US$ 3.20) for children. 

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS TO MENARA TAMING SARI

Melaka Straits Mosque 

For the best sunset views, make sure to add the Melaka Straits Mosque to your Singapore and Malaysia trip itinerary. I recommend taking a Grab there since the Mosque is found about 10 minutes outside the town center. 

Other things to do in Melaka: 

The Shore Sky Tower : For great views of Melaka. Check ticket price here

Skytrex Adventure : A fun and adventurous activity to do with family or friends. Hop from tree to tree with zip lines, rope bridges, swings and more. Check ticket price here

Jonker Street : If you’re visiting Melaka during the weekend, make sure to explore Jonker Street Night Market to taste some of the best street food!    

Melaka River Cruise : Take a 45-minute ride along the river to see various landmarks and street art. The boat ride costs RM 30 (US$ 6.85) for adults and RM 25 (US$ 5.70) for children and is operational from 9 a.m to 11.30 p.m. 

Maritime and Naval Museum : For RM 20   (US$ 4.60), pay a visit to the Maritime and Naval Museum. The museum is a replica of a Portuguese ship that sunk along the Strait of Melaka and has several exhibits showcasing the history of Melaka. 

Daily Fix Café :   While this isn’t technically an attraction, eating at the Daily Fix Café is a must! Get there right at opening time to secure a spot and indulge in the most delicious Pandan pancakes and coffee! 

Related post: 16 things to do in Melaka in 1 day

Where to stay in Melaka? 

Hotel arissa .

If you want to stay in a quiet neighborhood not too far from the main attractions, Hotel Arissa  is perfect for you. They provide clean and comfy rooms with a large double bed and a private bathroom. 

CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN MELAKA

Day 5 – Kuala Lumpur 

It’s finally time to explore the metropolitan city of Kuala Lumpur for 2 days ! Not only is KL a melting pot of culture, but it’s home to the world’s tallest twin towers and super cheap shopping malls. And, if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat! 

How to get from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur? 

Take the bus from Melaka Sentral to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan in Kuala Lumpur followed by a Grab (about RM 21 or US$ 4.80) to the city center. The bus journey lasts for about 2-2.5 hours and prices start from US$ 3. You can click the link below to book your bus ticket.

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM MELAKA TO KL HERE

Related post: How to get from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur?

Petronas Twin Towers 

The Petronas Twin Towers are perhaps the most iconic building in all of Kuala Lumpur! Standing at a height of 452 meters, the views here are breathtaking, especially at night.  

Since it there are usually lots of people visiting, I recommend  booking your skip-the-line ticket in advance  to avoid waiting for hours. 

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR PETRONAS TOWERS 

Operating hours : 10 a.m and 6 p.m from Tuesdays to Sundays (including public holidays).  

KLCC Park 

For another perspective of the Petronas Twin Towers, you can wander around KLCC Park for free. Don’t miss out on the Lake symphony show to see the water fountain light up. 

Lake symphony light and water show : 8 p.m, 9 p.m and 10 p.m every night 

Aquaria KLCC  

If you want to get close to marine life, make sure to add  Aquaria KLCC  to your itinerary. The aquarium houses a collection of 5,000 land and sea creatures and you can even walk under a water tunnel with sharks or other fish swimming over your head! 

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR AQUARIA KLCC 

Opening hours : 10 a.m to 7 p.m daily 

Shopping in Bukit Bintang 

Whether you want to shop in high-end or budget shopping malls, Bukit Bintang is where you should be headed! Some of my favorite budget shopping malls include Sungei Wang Plaza and Berjaya Times Square. 

Related post: Best thing to do in Bukit bintang

Jalan Alor Night Market  

As it starts getting dark, make your way to Jalan Alor night market which is a single lane surrounded on both sides by hundreds of street food stalls. From Chinese to Malay, Thai and Indian Food, you’re bound to find something to feast on! 

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? 

Gold 3 boutique hotel .

I recommend staying in Bukit Bintang so that you’re within walking distance to most attractions. Gold 3 Boutique Hotel is the perfect budget option in Bukit Bintang and features modern and clean rooms with a private bathroom.  

Ansa Hotel Kuala Lumpur 

Another option is Ansa Hotel on the opposite side of Gold 3 Boutique Hotel. Since the hotel offers a view of the KL Tower and offers more spacious rooms, it’s slightly more expensive. 

Tip : Be sure to read my guide to the best hotels in Bukit Bintang for more hotel options. Alternatively, you can read my guide to the best hotels in Chinatown KL if you’re looking for more budget options.

On the other hand, if you prefer to stay in a hotel that has an infinity pool, you can read my guide to the best KL hotels with an infinity pool !

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KUALA LUMPUR

Day 6 – Kuala Lumpur 

Kl forest eco park  .

Start your morning by taking a walk at the KL Forest Eco Park. Located just a few minutes from Bukit Bintang, it’s the perfect place to recharge and connect with nature. 

There are several walking trails to choose from or you can even walk along the suspended canopy bridge which provides views over the rainforest and skyscrapers.  

The park is open every day from 8 a.m to 5.30 p.m and tickets cost RM 40 for tourists or RM 10 for Malaysians.

KL Tower (Menara Tower)  

From the KL Forest Eco Park, walk to the  KL Tower , also known as the Menara Tower. Towering at a height of 421 meters, KL Tower offers an incredible 360-degree view all over Kuala Lumpur. 

If you’re on a tight budget, I recommend visiting the KL Tower instead of the Petronas Twin Towers. Not only are the tickets cheaper, but KL Tower also offers better views since the Skydeck is completely open. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for a discount! 

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR KL TOWER  

Opening hours : 10 a.m to 10 p.m daily. 

 Chinatown 

Next stop is Chinatown ! This neighborhood is home to rows and rows of stalls selling fake designer goods, cheap souvenirs and delicious street food. A few places I recommend visiting are Petaling Street, Katsuri Walk and Central Market. 

One tip I have for you is to always bargain! A good starting point is about 40 % of the original price quoted. 

Related post: Top things to do in Chinatown KL

Little India (Brickfields)  

Another must-visit on this Singapore Malaysia trip is Little India. Splashes of colors on the streets and buildings, Bollywood music playing in every shop, colorful flower garlands hanging on the side of the road and delicious but spicy food are a few of the things you can expect to see in Little India! 

Thean Hou Temple 

Situated just outside of Little India, Thean Hou Temple is one of the largest and most beautiful temples in Southeast Asia!  

Dedicated to Mazu, Goddess of the Sea, Thean Hou is an architectural masterpiece with hundreds of bright-red lanterns adorning the temple grounds. 

Since the temple sits on top of a hill, the upper deck provides a panoramic view of the city and you can even spot the KL Tower on a clear day! 

Entrance fee : Free  

Other things to do in Kuala Lumpur: 

Batu Caves : The climb over the 272 steps leads to a Hindu temple inside a cave and is one of the most popular Instagram spots in KL .  Check price for a guided tour of Batu Caves + hotel transfers here . 

Masjid Jamek : This is one of the oldest Islamic Mosques in Kuala Lumpur. It’s free to visit from Saturdays to Thursdays, outside of prayer time.   

KL Bird Park : Home to more than 3,000 local and foreign birds, the KL bird park is a great attraction for kids and adults alike. Entrance costs RM 63 (US$ 14.45) for adults and RM 42 (US$ 9.60) for children. 

Related post: 2 days in Kuala Lumpur: Ultimate guide  

Day 7 – Ipoh 

Often overlooked in favor of Penang, Ipoh is a small underrated town mostly known for its colorful street arts, old buildings, cave temples and the famous Ipoh White Coffee.  

How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh? 

Take the bus (US$ 6) from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan in KL to Ipoh Amanjaya bus station which is located about 20 minutes from Ipoh Old Town. From there, take a Grab (RM 15 or US$ 3.45) to your hotel. Normally, the journey should last about 4 hours unless there’s a lot of traffic. 

If you don’t want to get stuck in traffic, take the train instead. The journey lasts for about 3 hours and tickets cost about RM 40 (US$ 9.10).  

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM KL TO IPOH HERE

Go on a Street Art Hunt  

What I particularly love about the street arts in Ipoh is that they are interactive and there’s absolutely no one waiting in line to take a picture! 

You’ll find several pieces, especially in the Old Town. One of my favorites is the rickshaw art by Ernest Zacharevic which is a clever combination of a real rickshaw set against a painting of an old man collecting trash. 

You can find other street arts along Mural Art’s Lane and Concubine Lane. 

Concubine Lane and Kong Heng Square 

Your street art hunt will most certainly lead you to Concubine Lane. During the week, this little side road is completely deserted but during the weekend, it can get quite busy. Shop owners will set their stalls out on the street to sell souvenirs, jewelry and delicious street food.  

Located just a few meters from Concubine Lane, Koh Heng Square is another shopping spot where you can buy souvenirs and clothes.  

Where to stay in Ipoh?  

Grayhaus soho ipoh  .

Single and queen rooms with a private bathroom at Grayhaus Soho cost about US$ 12 and US$ 16 respectively. Coffee and toast are available anytime during the day and night and laundry will set you back RM 15 (US$ 3.45) per load.  

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN IPOH

Day 8 – Ipoh 

Taste the famous ipoh white coffee .

For breakfast make your way to either Nam Heong White Coffee or Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong. Both claim to be the inventor of the famous drink made of roasted coffee beans and condensed milk.  

While you’re there, I recommend ordering some egg tarts and dim sum as well. 

Explore the Cave Temples  

Today, you’ll be spending the day visiting three beautiful temples. Most of the temples in Ipoh are built inside limestone caves and some even provide stunning views IF you’re prepared to tackle over 400 stairs! 

Start off with  Perak Cave Temple  (Perak Tong), one of the most popular temples in Ipoh. The inside looks very intricate with paintings on the cave walls and golden Buddha statues. If you have the energy, take the 450 steps which lead to a panoramic view of Ipoh! 

Next up is  Sam Poh Tong.  Near the entrance, you’ll find a small pond with a pagoda in the middle. As you walk through the giant archway to get inside the temple, you’ll eventually reach a small tunnel leading to the back of the temple. Here, you’ll find another pagoda but unfortunately, you cannot go in. 

Kek  Lok Tong  is found in one of the most picturesque locations. The temple complex comprises of Buddha statues on the inside, while the outside features a beautiful lake garden surrounded by karst cliffs. 

Related post: Ipoh travel guide: 14+ awesome things to do  

Day 9 – Penang 

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Georgetown in Penang is quite similar to Ipoh although somewhat more touristy. Just like Ipoh, Penang is famous for its old colonial buildings and street arts.  

How to get from Ipoh to Penang? 

If you take the Sri Maju bus (US$ 5) from Ipoh, you’ll be dropped off directly in Penang at the Sungai Nibong Express Bus Terminal. The journey will last for about 2.5 hours. From there, take a Grab to Georgetown for about US$ 4. 

Some buses stop in Butterworth and you’ll need to take a ferry to Georgetown. So, make sure that the drop-off point is specifically at Sungai Nibong Express Bus Terminal. 

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM IPOH TO PENANG HERE

Kek Lok Si Temple 

Featuring thousands of Buddha statues and colorful carvings, Kek Lok Si temple is situated on top of a hill outside of Georgetown and is a must-visit on any Singapore Malaysia trip itinerary.   

The temple is free to visit except for the Pagoda which requires a small entrance fee of RM 2 (US$ 0.45). 

Kek Lok Si is open every day from 8.30 a.m to 5.30 p.m. 

Penang Hill and the Habitat

Another fun activity to do during your Singapore Malaysia itinerary is taking the funicular to Penang Hill and the Habitat . You can also hike up to the top but the path is very steep and requires at least 2 to 3 hours. The funicular operates from 6.30 a.m to 11 p.m.

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR PENANG HILL

Chulia Street Night Market 

Penang isn’t called the food capital of Malaysia for nothing! Head to Chulia Street at night to sample local Malaysian dishes like Nasi Kandar, Char Kway Teow, Lok Lok and more!    

Where to stay in Penang? 

Blue mansion (cheong fatt tze) .

Although a bit on the pricier side, the Blue Mansion is perfect for those who want to get a taste of living in a traditional Peranakan home. You’ll definitely be blown away by the architecture and decorations. Fun fact: The Crazy Rich Asians movie was even shot there!

East Indies Mansion

If you’re looking for something slightly cheaper, take a look at  East Indies Mansion . It sits right in the middle of Georgetown with the ferry port only a 5-minute drive or 10-minute walk away.

Rooms are set inside a beautifully restored Chinese shophouse and are spacious and clean with a private bathroom.

They also have family rooms/suites that can accommodate up to 8 people.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN PENANG

Day 10 – Penang 

Go on another street art hunt.

Since Georgetown is very touristy, you’ll need to wake up super early if you want to take pictures of the street art without anyone else in the shot. Starting from 9/10 a.m, the streets will be packed with tourists. 

You can find lots of street art right in the center of Georgetown, around Lebuh Armenia, Lebuh Ah Quee and Lebuh Canon while others can be found at the Hin Bus Depot.

Most of the street art are marked on google maps, so it should be easy to find them. You can also check out this street art guide of Penang here .  

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion) 

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion  is arguably one of the most famous attractions in Penang. Easily recognizable by its striking blue facade, the former home of the Chinese businessman, Cheong Fatt Tze has now been restored into a beautiful museum/hotel. 

You can take a guided tour during the week at 11 a.m, 2 p.m and 3.30 p.m or during the weekend at 11 a.m and 2 p.m.

The tour costs RM 25 (US$ 5.65) for adults and RM 12.5 (US$ 2.85) for children and lasts for about 45 minutes. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A GUIDED TOUR OF THE BLUE MANSION

Pinang Peranakan Mansion 

Another museum worth visiting is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. The museum is open every day from 9.30 a.m to 5 p.m and the entrance fee is RM 20 (US$ 4.60).    

Chew Jetty 

Finally, end the day by enjoying the sunset on Chew Jetty. The Chew Jetty was set up in the 19 th  century by Chinese immigrants who built their homes on wooden stilts. While people still live in these houses, it’s become a popular tourist attraction with shops selling mostly souvenirs. 

Other things to do in Penang:

• Love Lane : Your typical backpacker’s scene, Lone Lane is lined with hipster cafes and bars and is particularly busy during the evening. 
• Wat Chaiyamangalaran Thai Temple  – A Thai Buddhist temple with colorful carvings and mosaics and a 33-meter reclining Buddha statue.  

Related post: Best Penang itinerary for first-time visitors

Day 11 – Langkawi 

Langkawi is the perfect beach destination for any type of traveler, whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to have some lazy days. I recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Langkawi .

The island is made up of 104 islands with palm-fringed beaches, waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and even a spectacular Skybridge floating at 660 meters above sea level! 

How to get from Penang to Langkawi? 

Currently, the only way to travel from Penang to Langkawi is by plane. Direct flights are available, taking only about 30 minutes.

CHECK PRICE FOR A FLIGHT FROM PENANG TO LANGKAWI HERE

Chill on the beach 

Langkawi has many beautiful beaches but the most popular one is Pantai Cenang. The beach is situated in the southwest of Langkawi and reminds me a lot of Ao Nang in Thailand , except that the beach is much nicer!  

If ever you’re tired of just lying on the beach, you can partake in some watersport activities such as jet skiing or parasailing. 

Other beaches in Langkawi include Pantai Tengah, Pantai Kok and Tanjun Rhu. 

Visit a night market 

If you’re craving some budget-friendly local eats, make sure to visit at least one night market! The night markets not only sell food but you can find clothes as well.  

They are held every single night in different locations.

Related post: Langkawi 3 days 2 nights itinerary

Where to stay in Langkawi? 

Chenang inn .

Conveniently located less than 5 minutes from the beach,  Chenang Inn is an awesome budget hotel with clean and spacious rooms with a private bathroom. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN LANGKAWI

Day 12- Langkawi 

Langkawi skycab and skybridge.

For today, take the Langkawi Skycab to the Langkawi Skybridge, the world’s tallest suspension bridge! The bridge provides the most incredible views over the rainforest, waterfalls and even the Thai Islands! 

Since it’s one of the most popular attractions in Langkawi, I highly recommend you book your tickets in advance and make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before opening time.  

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR LANGKAWI SKYCAB AND SKYBRIDGE

Seven Wells Waterfall  

About a 15-minute walk from the Skybridge, you’ll come across the Seven Wells Waterfall . There’s a small pool at the bottom where you can swim in or you can take the stairs until you reach the top of the waterfall.  

The upper section has several pools and a small suspended bridge that provides views over the Langkawi Skycab. 

Related post: Complete guide to Seven Wells Waterfall

Other things to do in Langkawi: 

• Take an island hopping tour of the Langkawi archipelago
• Kilim Geoforest Park
• Skytrex Langkawi
• Eagle Square in Kuah Town 

Related post: Ultimate 2-week Malaysia itinerary

Budget for your Singapore Malaysia Itinerary 

While Singapore is slightly more expensive than Malaysia, it’s still possible to visit on a budget. Plan to budget around US$ 100-150 per day for Singapore and US$ 50-100 per day for Malaysia. You can check out both my articles about Singapore and Malaysia for a detailed budget breakdown. 

I hope you got some ideas on how to plan your Singapore and Malaysia trip itinerary. Please let me know in the comments if you have any questions. And for those who want to extend your trip to include Thailand as well, I have the perfect 10-day itinerary for Thailand for you which includes stops at some of the most beautiful Thai Islands!

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Hi, I like your Singapore & Malaysia itinerary. I’m planning to visit both countries and then Japan. Question, how can I get back to the airport? Should I fly out from Malaysia or go back to Singapore. If so, is there a fast train that takes me to an airport? Thx

Hi Susie. Thank you! If you’re going to follow the itinerary and end in Langkawi, you can fly from Langkawi Airport to Japan. Note that depending on the airline, there will be a stopover in either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Just choose the one that’s the cheapest. Btw, there’s no direct train from Langkawi Airport to Kuala Lumpur Airport or Singapore, you can only take a flight.

Hi! Is it best to book all hotels ahead of time. Itinerary ideas for Singapore and Malaysia looks great but I’m afraid when coordinating the train flight bus booking won’t all align. Is there an easy way to planning? Thanks!

Hello. I always book hotels ahead of time but choose those that offer free cancellation in case something comes up. Most hotels on Booking .com and Agoda allow you to cancel a few days before.

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20 Things to do in Malaysia + Tourist Spots

Malaysia sits between Singapore and Thailand, literally and on the scale of how easy it is to travel.

The country is divided into two main regions, Peninsular Malaysia on the west, composed of Kuala Lumpur & nearby states.

And, East Malaysia, composed of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo Island.

You can enjoy many of Southeast Asia’s best heritage cities, natural spots, food havens and urban experiences in Peninsular Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur offers direct connections from major cities in Asia & beyond. It’s the primary hub of AirAsia, so finding cheap flights shouldn’t be hard to come by. There’s also the option to a bus or train and cross the border from/to Singapore easily within a day. Once you’ve arrived, getting to main tourist spots is convenient by land or air.

Venture to East Malaysia for the best beaches, diving & trekking. It is home to Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in archipelagic Southeast Asia (outside of Papua) as well as many beautiful off-shore islands.

Is Malaysia on your bucketlist? Inspire your trip with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers.

1. Kuala Lumpur

Location : Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .

Kuala Lumpur is definitely worth exploring if ever you’re visiting Malaysia. The capital city’s urban landscape, dominated by iconic KL Tower and Petronas Towers, is dotted with grand heritage buildings, worthwhile museums, well-maintained parks, revered temples, and mosques.

How to go :

Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), the main flight gateway to Malaysia. It’s one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the world with direct flights to tourist hubs in Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, South Asia and major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Major airlines include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Lion Air, Malindo Air & Firefly. The airport is 30 minutes to 1 hour south of the city center by land. You can take the train, bus or private car.

From the Philippines, go on a flight to Kuala Lumpur on AirAsia, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Malaysia Airlines. Travel time takes nearly 4 hours. Flights to KL are also available from Clark, Cebu & Kalibo.

Kuala Lumpur Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

Malaysia 4G Pocket WiFi Hotspot (MY Pick up)

Malaysia Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Malaysia (click below to see rates and book online) |

Malaysia Fares & Transport

Malaysia Tours & Discounts

Malaysia  WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to Visit in Malaysia  |  Kuala Lumpur Itinerary  |  Singapore Travel Guide .

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

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2. Penang & Georgetown

Location : Penang, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .

Food in Georgetown, Penang is widely known as the best throughout the country and is reason enough to visit. It’s definitely my favorite place to visit in Malaysia. There is no place in Southeast Asia that can match its satisfying mix of old-world cosmopolitan heritage, relaxed feel, exotic allure, and lush natural landscapes.

Georgetown & Penang Island is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Penang International Airport (PEN) serves frequent direct flights KL, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Taipei & many domestic destinations in Malaysia including Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Langkawi, and Kota Bharu. Popular airlines include AirAsia, Malindo Air, Malaysia Airlines, Tigerair, Jetstar & Cathay Dragon. You can also reach Georgetown by bus/train/car, after a 4 to 6-hour land trip from Kuala Lumpur.

Penang Travel Essentials

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

Explore Georgetown Half Day City Tour

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

Location : Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Melaka (Malacca) is a former Portuguese-colonial trading port conveniently located between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. If you’re traveling to both cities by land, this heritage and food destination is worth a stopover.

Melaka is easy to reach by land from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The bus ride from Kuala Lumpur usually takes 2 to 3 hours. If you’re coming from Singapore, travel may take between 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoints.

Melaka Travel Essentials

4. Langkawi

Location : Kedah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

If you’ve been to the best beaches in the Philippines and Thailand, Langkawi’s natural scenery is probably not going to blow you away. That said, it still is a stunning place to visit with worthwhile things to keep you busy for a day or two. What I like about Langkawi the most is that is easy to travel yet remains approachable and largely underdeveloped. It’s also one of the few tax-free islands in Malaysia where you can enjoy duty-free shopping.

Langkawi is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Langkawi International Airport (LGK) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Penang, Guangzhou & Shenzhen, operated by AirAsia, Tigerair, SilkAir, Malindo Air & Malaysia Airlines. If you want to go by land & ferry, ride a bus or train from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis (6 to 8 hours travel time). Then, ride a ferry to Kuah in Langkawi Island. The sea journey takes around 1 to 2 hours. You can also arrive in Langkawi on a direct ferry from Penang or Satun in Thailand.

Langkawi Travel Essentials

Shared Ferry Transfers Between Langkawi and Koh Lipe

Ferry Ticket between Koh Lipe and Langkawi by Hi Lipe

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

5. Putrajaya

Location : Putrajaya, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Putrajaya is home to many of Malaysia’s most impressive monuments. Here, you’ll find grand mosques, government buildings, and iconic bridges surrounded by manicured parks and a 600-hectare lake. It can be reached on an easy day trip from Kuala Lumpur or on a drive-by to the airport.

Putrajaya is easy to visit from Kuala Lumpur. It is located between KL city centre and Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You can go by train on the KLIA Transit or by bus. Travel time may take as quick as 30 minutes or up to 1 hour depending on the traffic.

Putrajaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

6. Legoland & Johor Bahru

Location : 7, Jalan Legoland, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Legoland Malaysia is one reason to visit Johor Bahru, located just across the causeway from Singapore. It is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and features many cool attractions including a Lego-themed water park, Lego-themed hotel, and impressive miniature recreations of many of Asia’s best-known landmarks.

Most travelers visit Legoland & Johor Bahru on a day trip from Singapore. Travel time usually takes 1.5 hours to 3 hours depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoint. If you’re traveling from abroad, Johor Bahru-Senai International Airport (JHB) serves direct flights from Bangkok, Guangzhou, Ho Chi Minh, Jakarta, Surabaya & Shenzen. Fly with AirAsia, Firefly, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Sichuan Airlines or Spring Airlines. You can also reach Johor Bahru by bus or train from Kuala Lumpur. The travel time is 4 to 6 hours.

Johor Bahru Travel Essentials

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

Legoland Malaysia – SG Transfers

7. Kota Kinabalu

Location : Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Kota Kinabalu is a bustling yet laid-back city in Sabah, East Malaysia known as a gateway to Borneo’s amazing natural sites including Mount Kinabalu, Mulu Caves National Park, diving spots, and pristine jungles.

From the Philippines, you can fly direct to Kota Kinabalu from Manila on Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. Flight duration is 2 hours.

Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours and 30 minutes easy of Kuala Lumpur by plane. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tokyo and many domestic destinations in Malaysia. Major airlines include AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines & Malindo Air.

Kota Kinabalu Travel Essentials

Kota Kinabalu Sunset and City Night Dinner Cruise with Complimentary Drinks

Kota Kinabalu City Half Day Tour

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring

On My Bucketlist

8. Mount Kinabalu

Location : Ranau near Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

9. Cameron Highlands

Location : 39000, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

10. Perhentian Islands

Location : Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Redang Island

Location : Pulau Redang, 21090 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

12. Sipadan Island

13. Tioman Island

Location : Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

14. Genting Highlands

15. Mulu Caves

Location : Sarawak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Ipoh Travel Essentials

17. Kuching & Sarawak

18. Sandakan

19. Pahang Taman Negara

Location : 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Pahang Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

20. Bukit Tinggi

Location : 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Beyond Malaysia

Location : Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Singapore Travel Essentials

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Malaysia that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Malaysia

Malaysia tourist spots, things to do in Malaysia, where to go in Malaysia & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Malaysia

How much does it cost to travel to Malaysia? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Click below & search recommended Malaysia hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Malaysia Essentials & Top Discounts

Japan mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease &amp; confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

Japan SIM card Pocket WIFI See all discounts

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Kuala Lumpur Airport Train Ticket (KLIA Ekspres)

KL Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass

Click below to see more on:

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Kota Kinabalu
• Johor Bahru
• Southeast Asia

Find more posts about:

• Best Travel
• Best Places
• Best Things To Do

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December 11, 2015 at 4:09 am

How much po ba dpat ang show money sa airport for them to allow u to leave? Im gona stay in malaysia for 3 weeks

December 11, 2015 at 1:48 pm

There’s no set amount that’s required to be shown at the airport. You just have to justify that you have enough money to spend on your whole trip, depending on your budget. If your budget is P1,500 per day, for example, you simply need to have at least P31,500 on your bank account. It also helps to have extra, to show them you are able to pay for unforeseen expenses, like emergencies or last-minute flights.

November 20, 2018 at 1:30 pm

So many great destination ideas! Even though I have already had mine, I still like to get to know some nice destinations, even for holidays with my wife. I would also add one more place that we really like to visit, Bali in Indonesia

January 28, 2019 at 4:03 pm

Wow! Such a great resource you have here! Been in love with Malaysia since day 1 of our visit. The beaches and culture is outstanding! Sooo looking forward to our comeback. Wonderful guide! Kudos!

December 5, 2019 at 2:15 pm

The most famous places to be visited in Malaysia especially Kuala Lumpur is Twin Tower, KL Tower, Dataran Merdeka and many more.

May 5, 2020 at 8:35 pm

There are so many great places in Malaysia, it’s so hard to choose the best! Awesome round up :)

October 4, 2021 at 11:59 pm

You summed it all up in one post. Great coverage and definitely great recommendations.

City Nomads

Road Tripping in Malaysia: The Best Routes for Exploring Malaysia From Kuala Lumpur

PUBLISHED February 25th, 2022 05:00 am | UPDATED April 5th, 2022 11:24 am

After long years of pandemic lockdowns, we’re all itching for more adventure – and a roadtrip sounds like just the ticket. With Malaysia lifting its ban on interstate travel, thoughts of scenic views, food trails , and nature escapes are getting us revved up already. Here’s our bucket list of the best routes for exploring Malaysia from KL, ranging from short drives to multi-day getaways.

Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara National Park

Drive time: 2 hours from KL to Fraser’s Hill, 4 hours from Fraser’s Hill to Taman Negara National Park

If you’re craving a dose of nature, a multi-day getaway to Malaysia’s green lung of Taman Negara National Park sounds like a plan. But rather than driving there direct from Kuala Lumpur, we recommend making a stopover at the rainforest-rich hamlet of Fraser’s Hill in Pahang. Spread over seven lush hills, this highlands village is criss-crossed with scenic mountain trails, prime birdwatching spots, and the popular Jeriau Waterfall. If you’re planning to stay overnight, you’ll find an array of charming colonial bungalows available for homestays – relics of the British colonial era.

Next stop: Taman Negara National Park . This pristine 130-million-year-old forest ranks among the world’s oldest rainforests, clocking in at 4,343 square kilometres of camping, cave exploring, and trekking opportunities. Highlights include getting high with stunning views on the world’s longest canopy walkway, as well as visiting the Kampung Orang Asli – a village of Malaysia’s native aborigines renowned for their blowpipe hunting skills.

Kuala Lumpur to Tanjong Jara

Drive time: 2 hours from KL to Gambang, 3 hours from Gambang to Kuala Dungun

Fancy a breezy coastal drive? You can get your fill of sun, sand, and spa time with a winding roadtrip from Kuala Lumpur along Malaysia’s tranquil east coast. First up, a dose of wellness – make your way to Mangala Resort & Spa in Gambang for a day or two of traditional Malay massages and luxe villa living, in the serene heart of fruit orchards and wetlands.

Hit the road via the picturesque Federal Route 3 , which runs along Malaysia’s east coast and offers hours of splendid seaside scenery. This route takes you through placid beach towns like Cherating – known for its laidback sands and leatherback turtles. In no time, you’ll reach the golden sands fronting Tanjong Jara Resort in Kuala Dungun, an elegant resort designed to resemble a 17th-century Malay palace. With a whole Spa Village to relax in, you can bet on your worries melting away here.

Kuala Lumpur to Penang

Drive time: 2.5 hours from KL to Ipoh, 2 hours from Ipoh to Penang

Want to eat your way through Malaysia? No better way to do it than a roadtrip from Kuala Lumpur through the hawker food heaven of Ipoh, and onward to the buffet of street eats that is Penang. Ipoh has no end of local delights to stuff yourself silly with – white coffee and chee cheong fun for breakfast, curry mee and claypot crab noodles for lunch, and silky caramel custard to top it all off. Walk off the food coma with a tour around Ipoh’s vibrant street art gems, particularly in Ipoh Old Town.

Strap in for the two-hour drive north to Penang’s capital of George Town , where every nook and cranny is crammed with tasty street eats. Start your day right with Apong Guan ‘s famously fluffy apom manis filled with bananas and shredded coconut, then vie with the crowds at Sup Hameed for nasi kandar (aka rice with curry-based meats and veggies). Drive over to third-generation stall Bridge Street Prawn Noodle for a slurpworthy bowl of Hokkien mee, before stopping by Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul for an icy dessert.

Kuala Lumpur to Taiping

Drive time: 3 hours from KL to Cameron Highlands, 3 hours from Cameron Highlands to Taiping

Nothing spells peace quite like rolling through the countryside in Cameron Highlands . Wind down your window and breathe in the cool highlands air, as you rove through lush tea plantations dotted with honeybee farms, strawberry farms, and rustic villages. Once there, a slice of countryside awaits. The Robertson Rose Garden flaunts over 100 species of roses, best seen from mid-spring; strawberry picking is another popular activity at farms, where you can eat them ripe and juicy right off the stem.

Ready to explore further? Wind your way past mountain ranges and dense forests to reach Perak’s northwestern town of Taiping . Whether it’s a stroll in Taiping Lake Gardens or a boat tour to Kampung Dew to watch the dazzling dance of fireflies on the river, this little town oozes tranquility. It’s also worth a trip to the historic Antong Coffee Mill – Malaysia’s oldest coffee mill still follows the traditional method of roasting beans over a wood fire to produce a unique smokiness.

Kuala Lumpur to Desaru Coast

Drive time: 4 hours

Set in southeastern Johor, Desaru Coast was once a quiet coastal town – until the luxury resorts started taking notice of its charms. These days, it’s a glam getaway for folks craving the suite life, with private plunge pools and prime beach access at the likes of Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas and One&Only Desaru Coast . Sun and sea aside, you’ll also have a splashing good time at the  Adventure Waterpark with over 20 wet and dry thrills to tackle.

Your four-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur will take you past Johor , so why not stop over to fuel up? Drop by the local hotspot The Toast in Taman Mount Austin for Nanyang coffee, along with their signature egg mayo toast and nasi lemak. Or grab a seat at the popular Restoran Gim Cheng in Taman Daya for a spread of over 60 kinds of handmade dim sum, including the crowd-favourite mango shrimp rolls.

Kuala Lumpur to Malacca

Drive time: 2.5 hours from KL to Muar, 1 hour from Muar to Malacca

If you’re after a dose of heritage and culture, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Malacca is undoubtedly your cup of tea. But first, we recommend a day’s detour to Muar . The buildings of this historical town come splashed with stunning larger-than-life murals, including Julia Vochkova’s Loving Sisters and Sabek’s  The Bond . Also worth seeing is the Sultan Ibrahim Jamek Mosque – a breathtaking mosque splashed in dreamy white and sky blue, blending elements of British colonial and traditional Malay architecture.

Next, head to the heritage hotbed of Malacca , where you can explore Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple: the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple . Another striking attraction, the Malacca Sultanate Palace , is a reconstruction of the 15th-century royal palace that stood in the same spot; not only is it wrought entirely of wood, not a single nail was used in its construction. For a suitably heritage-style stay, opt for the Timez Hotel , where each individually designed suite is a nod to Malacca’s history.

Road Tripping in Malaysia

Planning  your next road tripping adventure? UOB Cardmembers can a variety of travel deals, with up to 25% off accommodation bookings with Agoda , Booking.com and Expedia or up to 5% off savings on travel bookings with Klook . If you’re looking to rent a car to explore your destination, get up to 20% off Avis Car Rental or Budget Car Rental . Last but not least, don’t forget the Travel Insurance !

Don’t have a UOB Card? Find the right credit card for all your needs here .

Top Image: One&Only Desaru Coast

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Jolene has a major sweet tooth and would happily eat pastries for all meals. When she’s not dreaming of cheesecake, she can be found in the dance studio, working on craft projects, or curled up with a good book.

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The Ultimate Road Trip Guide Travel from Singapore to Malaysia

• Travel Tips

Table of Contents

Covid restrictions have been relaxed, borders have been reopened, and international travelling has been made possible yet again.

For two years, the border between Malaysia and Singapore has been closed due to the rising cases of Covid-19, but as of 1st of April 2022, Malaysians can now travel to Singapore and Singaporeans too are now free to cross the bridge and visit Malaysia—be it to visit your close relatives and say hi to your friends, or even for leisure!

So, what exactly do you need to know before packing your bags and setting off on your trip from Singapore to Malaysia?

Flights might only take you less than an hour to reach Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) from Changi Airport, but of course, the price per passenger might not be to your liking. So, how do you get there without leaving a huge hole in your wallet?

Continue scrolling through and discover the cheapest ways to travel to Malaysia , the essentials that you must have before you start your journey, and some of the best places to visit during your trip other than the one and only Petronas Twin Towers.

Preparations for the Trip

Valid passport.

Of course, first things first—make sure your passport is not expired! Keep in mind that your passport must be valid for more than six months in order to enter Malaysia.

You might not notice that your passport is nearing the expiry date especially when you have not been travelling abroad for quite some time, so it’s best to check the date and renew it if needed!

Vaccination

Make sure you’re fully vaccinated before travelling to Malaysia. While fully vaccinated visitors are no longer required to self-quarantine upon reaching Malaysia.

Mysejahtera App

At this point of time, you are still required to install the Mysejahtera app on your mobile. Some places still need to are still required to check the risk status of visitors through the app.  You need to upload your vaccination certificate to your Mysejahtera App so that your vaccination status will show “Fully Vaccinated”.

The app is available on both Apple and Android app stores, so be sure to download it to your smartphones beforehand.

Touch n’ Go Card (TNG)

For those who choose to drive to Malaysia, it is a must for you to keep a Touch n’ Go card with you at all times.

You’ll have to go through several highway tolls and all of them only accept cashless payments, so be sure to have sufficient balance topped up in the TNG card.

Other than being used for tolls, the TNG card can also be used for the MRT, LRT, Monorails, KTM, bus rides as well as parking fees.  

source: Ez-link

To ease your trip, you can go ahead and purchase the new EZ-Link x Touch n’ Go Motoring card , a dual-currency smart card which can be used in both Singapore and Malaysia.

You can easily get it from selected 7-11 outlets throughout Singapore as well as EZ-Link official Shopee store.

T op-ups can be made in various shops and petrol stations scattered throughout Malaysia too, but it is highly recommended that you download the Touch n’ Go e-wallet app in your smartphones.

source: Touch’N Go

Through this app, you can make payments at various stores that accept e-wallet payments and if you’ve purchased Enhanced Touch n’ Go card, you can even top-up your balance online!

Cheapest Way to Travel from Singapore to Malaysia

Now that you have all those essentials listed above settled, it’s time to decide which transportation method you prefer to travel to Malaysia.

Other than flying, there are three other options to choose from. While taking flights could indeed save a lot of your travelling time, these three options listed below can definitely save your bank accounts.

Travel by Bus - Suitable for those travelling with friends

The cheapest option to Malaysia is by none other than bus rides. However, this option is not recommended for those who are travelling with infants and elderly as it requires a lot of walking around and sometimes, long queues.

It is also not advisable to pack your things in a bulky and huge luggage, so backpacks are the best choices here.

First and foremost, you must reach Woodlands Train Checkpoint before you could even get on any of the Cross Border Shuttles. To do so, you can start your journey at Woodland MRT. 

Once you’ve arrived, try to look for sign boards that can lead you to the Woodlands Bus Interchange. Once you’ve gone down the staircase, you’ll straight away notice several buses waiting for you. But which one do you need to take?

You can either take Bus 856 (Berth 11) which only has six stops before you could reach the checkpoint or Bus 903 (Berth 4) and get off after ten stops.

You can also opt for Bus 903, 911T, 912, and 912 B , however, getting to the checkpoint via these buses is rather confusing. So, be sure to ask the bus driver first before you set your bags!

You may refer to this article for more in depth guide on taking the bus to the checkpoint.

You can, of course, walk to the checkpoint although you might be drenched in sweat upon your arrival. If you’re not in the mood to wait for the buses, feel free to take the taxi or Grab.

source: Google Maps

Now that you’ve arrived at Woodlands Train Checkpoint after a good 10-15 minute bus ride, go ahead and make your way to the Woodland CIQ (Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex).

Once you’ve gotten through the Singapore immigration checkpoint, all you have to do is head down the escalator and take the Cross Border Shuttle Bus which will take you straight to Johor CIQ.

With less than $2, you can either choose to embark on the SBS Transit Bus (160, 170, 170X, and SMRT 950) or take the Causeway Link buses if you’re a Causeway Link ticket holder.

Upon reaching JB CIQ, proceed through the immigration process and before you know it, you’re free to roam around and take an exciting trip around Johor Bahru !

To ease your travels, feel free to rent a car—we recommend booking one from Easybook .

Travel by Train - Suitable for everyone including those with small children and elderly people.

If you feel taking bus too hassle or not in the mood for driving, and prefer to sit back and relax, then you can opt to travel to Malaysia via train rides—plus, the price for the train tickets never change, so don’t worry about any extra surcharges imposed especially during peak seasons.

To begin your trip, simply make your way to the Woodlands station. After going through the customs clearance, those who had purchased the train tickets online can straight away board the train while those who have yet to buy the tickets can do so at their official ticket counters for only $5.

Once you have the tickets in your hands, get on the train and enjoy the 5-minute journey from Singapore to Johor Bahru.

However, the train can only take you to JB Sentral, so you might have to figure out your own transportations should you wish to travel to the other parts of Malaysia. You can always rent a car or make use of the KTM train which connects many cities and towns in Malaysia.

Take the train from JB Sentral up until Gemas which is where you can find two KTM lines that lead you to different parts of Malaysia: The main KTM railway line goes all the way up to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang while the Jungle Railway goes to the eastern parts of Malaysia such as Kelantan.

Travel by Car - Suitable for those travelling with infants and elderly

If you’re planning on driving to Malaysia, you first need to ensure that your vehicle insurance policy covers your time in Malaysia. Then, you’ll have to register for the mandatory Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) if you haven’t done so already.

For first timers, you can register your vehicle details online here .

Once you’ve received a confirmation email, you’ll be contacted via another email to confirm your address as the VEP RFID tag will be posted straight to your doorstep. Now that you’ve gotten the tag, you’re free to start your journey to Malaysia!

*The tag installed also comes with an e-wallet which you can use to pay at the tolls around Malaysia.

While parking spaces in shopping malls can be paid with TNG and debit cards, there are also others that require parking coupons.

You can purchase parking coupons from various stores located nearby the parking spaces (most of the time, they’ll put up a sign if they’re selling any) or if you prefer to avoid any unnecessary hassles, go ahead and download the parking apps in your phone.

However, the apps might differ according to the states that you’re in, so be sure to use the right one.

Also, if by any chance, you are involved in an accident on the road, remain calm and dial up any of these emergency numbers according to your needs:

Police and ambulance services: 999

Fire and rescue department: 994

Accidents: 991

Tourist police hotline: 03-2149 6590

There are two different highways to choose from to explore Malaysia: The North South Highway (NSH) and the Eastern Coastal Route.

The latter is great for those who’d like to go on a road trip filled with some of the great views of the South China Sea while the NSH is often used by travellers who are planning on visiting the city of Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Ipoh, and Penang.

Road Trip To The Most Popular Destinations In Malaysia

Johor Bahru

If you’re travelling to Malaysia by land, the first state that you’ll reach is none other than Johor—so why not spend some time exploring its city, Johor Bahru while you’re there?

Also known as Malaysia’s southern jewel, Johor Bahru or JB is a popular tourist destination that could cater to almost everyone—be it those travelling with a group of friends or those visiting with family members and small children.

Need some good laughs with your kids? Get a ticket to LEGOLAND Malaysia and spend a few hours having fun at their seven different themed areas.

Go on exciting rides, be prepared to get drenched on their water slides, and say hi to some of the marine animals at the SEA LIFE Aquarium.

Avid food hunters on the other hand, surely won’t be disappointed as Johor Bahru also has an abundance of unique cafes and restaurants serving different kinds of menu while shopaholics out there could swipe their cards at Johor Premium Outlets.

source: Desaru Coast

If you have more time, don’t forget to visit Desaru too! Overlooking the South China Sea, this exact destination in Johor is great for those who plan on having a great time with their families and big group of friends.

Get a ticket to Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, a unique waterpark famous for its backdrop of traditional kampung and at least 13 thrilling rides and slides to keep you entertained all day long.

What’s even better is that it is only a matter of time until the opening of a brand new jetty that directly connects Singapore and Desaru, so no more time consuming travelling time!

Whether you’re a history buff or simply someone who loves sightseeing, then Melaka should definitely get included in your “must-visit” list. Filled with dozens of historical buildings, you can get a chance to learn a thing or two about Malaysia’s history and Melaka’s origin.  

The best way to explore this colonial town is of course, by foot as many of its attractions are located pretty near to each other.

Start your tour by visiting a couple of museums, take a closer look at the A Famosa fort along with the 16th century Church of Saint Paul on top of the breezy hill overlooking the town, try out some pandan pancakes with sweet gula melaka at a few of the Instagrammable cafes, and witness the lively nightlife at Jonker Street

Unique temples, themed water parks, historic castles, heritage museums, cave explorations, and countless local cuisines —these are the things that could describe the wonders of Ipoh. 

Although this gem in the north is located at least a six hour drive from Johor Bahru, Ipoh surely is worth a visit at least once in your entire lifetime!

Home to the Lost World of Tambun, you, your friends, and family can get a chance to have a blast splashing water and go on thrilling water slides.

What’s best about the theme park is that it is well surrounded by hills and mother nature—which makes you feel as if you’re really in the middle of a long lost world deep in the jungle!

source: Wikipedia

For those who prefer something more challenging, head to Gua Tempurung and explore the old cave. Be prepared to crawl through narrow openings, slide down the steep and slippery surfaces, and encounter some exotic insects calling the cave their home.

History lovers could pay Kelly’s Castle a visit while foodies could spend hours jumping from one eatery to another trying out mouth-watering egg tarts, dim sums, curry mee, tau fu fah, salted chicken, and many more.

Concubine Lane is definitely a must visit and if you can’t decide which of those famous food in Ipoh that you should not miss, here are some of our suggestions.

Nicknamed the Pearl of the Orient and Malaysia’s food paradise , Penang should get included in your itinerary especially if you have an undying love for delicious food and cuisines.

From nasi kandar to pasembur, rojak, cendol, and roti canai served with a generous amount of gravy, a sunny side up, and a juicy chicken thigh—you can have them all.

It is not difficult to find restaurants and stalls selling all those delicacies above, but there are also some that you should not miss: Penang Road Teochew Cendol, the town’s most famous cendol stall that has been operating since the ‘30s as well as Hameed Pata Mee Sotong in Esplanade Park Food Court.

source: Ghost Museum Facebook

While Penang is best known for its eclectic mix of food and culinary scene, this precious town is also the home to an array of interesting museums, parks, and sightseeing spots.

One of the most peculiar museums that you find in Penang includes the Ghost Museum which showcases eerie and horrifying depictions of ghosts and spirits originating from both Malaysia and Indonesia.

As for those who crave for amazing sunset views, don’t forget to stop by Batu Ferringhi!

Cameron and Genting Highlands

None can ever say no to spending some quality time on top of a breezy hill, sipping a hot cup of strawberry tea and munching on some tasty pastry while overlooking an entire tea plantation.

Cameron Highlands can offer you just that! Founded in the 19th century, Cameron Highlands is now filled with a great number of points of interest that could keep you entertained.

Other than sitting around in cafes, you can visit one of its many strawberry farms, get a taste of the unique nasi lemak strawberry, take a closer look at a colourful rose farm, tour around the villages of orang asli , and climb up Mount Brinchang if you’re feeling adventurous.

Of course, if you’ve visited Cameron Highlands, you must also spend some time in Genting Highlands.

In contrast to Cameron highlands which is a spot surrounded by beautiful mother nature, Genting Highlands focuses more on theme parks and thrilling fun! The main highlight is of course, the recently opened Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park.

Tioman and Perhentian Islands

In the mood for a spectacular view of the beach combined with the crystal clear sea water? If so, then pack your bags and make your way to either Tioman or Perhentian Islands.

Tioman Islands is located in Pahang while Perhentian can be found in Terengganu, however, both can offer you a pleasant vacation experience.

You can spend the entire day lying on the soft sand beaches and go snorkelling to see all the unique and colourful marine life in their natural habitat.

For those staying in Johor, you can take a ferry from Mersing to reach Tioman Island. As for the Perhentian Islands, since it is located on the eastern coast of Malaysia, you’ll first have to go through several hours of journey to Kuala Besut jetty and take the speedboat to the islands.

You’ll know that you’re nearing the pristine islands when the deep dark ocean water turns clear to the point where you can easily spot the corals and small marine animals swimming around—if you’re lucky, you might even take a glimpse of stingrays dashing through underwater!

Kuala Lumpur

Last but not least, what’s a trip to Malaysia without setting foot on its capital city, Kuala Lumpur?

If splurging your paychecks at high-end stores, sipping coffees at Instagrammable cafes , eating at some of the best fine dining restaurants, and visiting the Petronas Twin Towers are your definition of a perfect trip, then the busy city of Kuala Lumpur is the right destination for you.  

Do keep in mind, however, that the city is also known for its traffic jams especially during peak hours, but don’t worry too much as KL has a wide option of public transport—you can take the MRT, LRT, and Monorail lines to reach all sorts of main attractions such as the Central Market which is popular for Malaysian arts and crafts. 

Pavilion, the top shopping complex filled with an array of branded stores, the KL Tower which can offer you a great view of the entire city, and many more.

Getting to Malaysia from Singapore is indeed hassle-free. All you need to do is plan your itinerary beforehand and choose which one of the transportation options that you prefer. 

Once the first few steps are done, what’s left is for you to pack your backpacks and get ready for a fun road trip with friends and family!

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Explore the Natural Wonders of Taman Negara

Stretching across the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang, lies the Taman Negara, recognized as one of the world’s oldest primary rainforests, with an impressive

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• 35 Awesome Places To Visit…

35 Awesome Places To Visit In Malaysia (Read This Before Travel To Malaysia)

Malaysia is a colourful country where many enthusiastic travellers wish to have millennia to explore it all.

From rainforest escape, island getaway, culture exploration, fun-filled day at theme park to simply just wandering around the heritage street, Malaysia can make it all happen.

So, we’ve come out with the list of popular places to visit in Malaysia for you to narrow down your travel bucket list!

Pick one and start packing your luggage.

Top 35 Places To Visit In Malaysia

1. taman negara.

Wander through Taman Negara to escape into the lush rainforest and discover the wildlife you never seen before! Being one of the top nature places to visit in Malaysia, this 130 million years old tropical rainforest is situated at the heart of Peninsular Malaysia.

Covering 4,343 square kilometers which is about 7 times bigger than Singapore, there are lots of adventure and nature activities offered inside. Hence, your trip to Taman Negara is never dull but filled with great fun.

Taman Negara Highlights:

• Canopy walkway – Enjoy the magnificent view of greenery 40m above ground level while walking through the 1.2km canopy walkway – the longest canopy walkway in the world.
• Night jungle trekking – The best way to check out the nocturnal creatures living inside the tropical rainforest. You might spot tapir, reindeer and wild boar.
• Rapid shooting – Follow the boatman and ride through 6 rapids in a wooden boat. Be prepared to get wet!
• Kampung Orang Asli Visitation – Explore and respect the remote living of local people in the jungle away from modernization. Here, you can try bamboo hunting using the blowpipe.

2. Genting Highlands

Located on the summit of Ulu Kali Mountain, Genting Highlands aka Resorts World Genting presents you another stunning version of Las Vegas!

A secret for you is, this is the only legal gambling spot in Malaysia. And beside the casino, it encompasses premium shopping malls, theme parks and hotels.

The perfect location on the top means you get to enjoy the cool weather while exploring outdoors without the worry of getting tan. It’s a great place to beat the heat too.

Also read:  Singapore To Malaysia: 5 Easy Transport

Genting Highlands Highlights:

• Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park is opened at year 2022. It’s definitely the favourite place of thrill seekers.
• Awana Skyway – A 10-minute cable car ride which connected to SkyAvenue Shopping Mall.
• Chin Swee Caves Temple – It houses a 9-storey Pagoda where visitors are welcomed to climb up to the peak. The amazing views of the mountain truly leave you in awe.
• Genting Casino – Test your luck at the most popular venues in Genting Highlands where more than 400 table games and 3,000 slots machines are available. The entry is restricted for adults above 21 years old.

3. Tioman Island

Approximately 56km off the east coast of Pahang lies the hidden gems of Malaysia – Tioman Island .

Fringed by swaying palm trees and surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, this island has a serene and tranquil atmosphere which is perfect for a short getaway from Singapore . It’s one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

Also read:  10 Best Island Near Mersing, Johor

Tioman Island Highlights:

• Duty-free island – Items sold here are cheaper compared to those in the mainland, especially alcohol which costs only a few ringgit here.
• Diving – If you are new to diving, there are many dive schools complemented with experienced and qualified trainers to teach and train you in the friendliest way.
• Snorkelling – Home to endless lovely coral reef, you can enjoy snorkelling at the sea right in front of your resort.
• Jungle trekking – For nature lovers, trek from Tekek to Monkey Bay orJuara to discover spectrum of flora and fauna.
• Waterfall exploration – Enjoy a dip or swim at Mukut Waterfall or Asah Waterfall. Both waterfall has a very astonishing view.
• Deep-sea fishing – As fishing is prohibited at marine park, all fishing trips are arranged at least 25km away from the coast.

4. Cameron Highlands

Beat the hot weather and escape into Malaysia’s most popular highlands destination – Cameron Highlands. Filled with endless things to do, this verdant destination is truly one of the must go for all mountain person. Below are the highlight attractions in Cameron Highlands.

Cameron Highlands Highlights:

• BOH Tea Plantation – It is a must of places to visit in Malaysia to learn about the process of tea making. Visitors can take a sip of tea while enjoying the tea plantation view.
• Lavender Garden – Admire the sea of purple lavender while taking a leisure walk with loved ones is truly the best moments you experience in your lifetime.
• Big Red Strawberry Farm – Enjoy handpicking the freshest strawberries at the farm. You can have their freshly made strawberry ice-cream too.
• Honey Bee Farm – Visit the gallery of bee nests and purchase their quality homemade honey productions.
• Thompson Falls – A serene waterfall far away from city buzz. Best to take a dip and meditate.

5. Gunung Mulu National Park, Miri

Whether you want to physically challenge yourself trekking into the pristine rainforest or explore the mysterious cave system on the Earth, Gunung Mulu National Park has it all. It is a famous Malaysia tourist places to visit.

Also read:  Gunung Lambak : One Of The Nearest & Famous Mountain From Singapore!

The special thing about this national park is, it can only be accessed by plane. Other mode of transport is way too troublesome and dangerous for us.

Gunung Mulu National Park Highlights:

• The Pinnacles – Resembling upturned knives jamming right into the Earth, the view of this magnificent limestone formations is overwhelming. Truly the most spectacular view on the Earth!
• Deer Cave –This is the second biggest cave passage in the world that homes to myriad of wrinkled-lipped bats.
• Mulu Canopy Skywalk – Go for it if you are not suffering from vertigo. This 480m long canopy walkway is supported by thick trunks and there are viewing platforms around the trunks.
• Clearwater cave – Beat 200 steps staircase up to the longest cave in Asia. You can see the unusual underground river too.

6. Niah National Park, Miri

Do you want to know how the settlement of human looks like 40,000 years ago?

Featuring one of the largest and oldest caverns on the Earth, Niah National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia offers you a fun jungle walk and wonderful cave experiences like no other.

Also read:  7 Popular National Parks In Malaysia

With merely 2-hour drive from Miri town, you will arrive at this pristine national park. A 20-minute easy trek will bring you to the cave entrance. From there, you will encounter different caves and discover ancient ways of living.

Niah National Park Highlights:

• Great Cave – This is where the inhabitant of human 40,000 years ago was found, making it one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
• Painted Cave –The cave houses ancient wall paintings but the area was fenced as the drawings are really fragile and deteriorating now.
• Niah Archaeology Museum –A great place to learn about the cave ecosystem, geology and the prehistoric archaeology.
• Gan Kira – This is the burial site during Neolithic period. Lots of ornaments and potteries were discovered.

7. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Meet and interact with the lovely orang utans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve! Established in 1975, this is the biggest orang utans Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak and it is located merely 20km south from Kuching.

Nowadays, there are not much places in the world where we can look at our jungle cousins up close like this. Here, the orang utans are either born in the protected area or were rescued from captivity. Training was given to them until they are fully ready to be released into the jungle.

Semenggoh Nature Reserve Highlights:

• Orang Utan feeding session – The feeding session happens at 9:00am and 3:00pm daily. Plan your day well so that you won’t miss this golden opportunity to closely look at grown-up orang utans begging for food!
• Spectrum of flora and fauna – Giant squirrel and different kinds of bird species can be spotted around.

8. Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching

With an attracting slogan “See Sarawak in Half a Day”, Sarawak Cultural Village stands as an award-winning museum that introduces the lifestyles and cultures of different ethnic groups in Sarawak in the most interesting way. These ethnic groups include Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau and Penan.

Currently, there are over 150 locals living here, presenting tourists the ways of processing sago, handicrafts making and many more. You can also take part in their workshops to learn and experience their customs in their original home.

Sarawak Cultural Village Highlights:

• Traditional dance performances – Expect to be surprised by this 45-minute show which presents you numerous tribes’ dances depicted by the professional local dancers.
• Longhouses visitation – Take a stroll to the villages of different ethnic groups and find the differences between them. Sometimes, you might be invited to join their nightly ceremonies and have a sip of their rice wine and tuak.
• Rainforest World Music Festival – This is an annual music festival which successfully attracts performers and visitors from all over the world.

9. Sipadan Island

Internationally known as one of the world’s best scuba diving sites, Sipadan Island homes to over 3,000 species of sea creatures and hundreds of beautiful coral reefs.

Being the only marine island in Malaysia, it is also one of the few places to visit in Malaysia that offer you the charming views of different species of sea turtles on the beach. Besides, this oceanic island boasts an awe-inspiring view that could easily take your breath away.

Image Credits: tashggw

Sipadan Island Highlights:

• Scuba Diving – No trip to Sipadan Island is completed without taking part in scuba diving. It is impossible to list out all the fishes you might discover in the water. Feedback from the divers is sometimes they encounter sharks at close hand! However, night diving is prohibited here.
• Snorkelling – If scuba diving is too hard for you, you can also discover the fantastic underwater world through snorkelling which offers you equal fun as the scuba diving! Sea turtles are sometimes spotted while you are snorkelling too.
• Bird-watching – Declared as the sanctuary of birds, you can find wood Pigeons, Sunbirds, starlings, Kingfishers and Sea Eagles here.

10. Desa Dairy Farm, Kundasang

Known as a small New Zealand in Sabah, Desa Dairy Farm is a cattle farm that produces around 900,000 liters milk every year.

Covering 199 hectares, this is a famous tourist destination which located approximately 100km away from Kota Kinabalu. Together with the scenic mountain views, travellers always feel so satisfying to get to enjoy the fresh and delicious dairy products in the cool weather.

Desa Dairy Farm Highlights:

• Photo taking with Mount Kinabalu as a backdrop – The magnificent mountain views is excellent to take an Instagram photo. This place always serves as wedding photography destination too.
• Food kiosk – You can try the freshest milk, ice-cream, yogurt and pudding from the farm here.
• Calf & goat feeding – Enjoy feeding calf and got with bottled milk and grass.
• Cow milking process – Visitors are only allowed to see the cow milking process from far. The process is very efficient and systematic too.

11. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a marine park made up of 5 islands, namely Gaya Island, Mamutik Island, Sapi Island, Sulug Island and Manukan Island.

All these islands are just a short boat ride from one another. During weekend, lots of tourists are here for day trip, either walking through the jungles or enjoy the perfect serenity at their untouched beaches. Basic accommodations are offered at Mamutik, Gaya and Manukan.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Highlights:

• Diving – The marine park offers 25 decent dive sites in total. Dive center can be accessed all around the island. Some offer the dive trips to nearby islands like Tiga Island and Mantamani Island too.
• Snorkelling – Sapi Island and Manukan Island offer several beautiful public beaches where snorkelling can be enjoyed.
• Jungle trekking – At Gaya Island, there are 20km trails where you might encounter proboscis monkeys, monitor lizards and bearded pigs along the way.
• Sailing, kayaking and BBQ dinner can be enjoyed here too.

12. Mount Kinabalu

The first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysia – Mount Kinabalu has delighted endless nature lovers as they are able to witness spectrum of flora and fauna at different altitudes. Hence, it also serves as one of the world’s most important biological sites until the present day.

Also read:  7 Captivating Hills in Johor For Weekend Hiking

Towering at 4,095m above the sea level, climbers always find it challenging yet rewarding conquering the height. At the peak, it reveals a vast view of Borneo mountains. If you reach here before dawn, you will be blessed with the most beautiful sunrise ever.

Mount Kinabalu Highlights:

• Summit trail – This is a shorter route that has many trail shelters along the way. The journey to the top takes around 6 to 8 hours.
• Mesilau trail – Suitable for adventurous climbers, this trail is relatively slippered than any other trails, especially during wet season.
• Poring Hot Spring – You might spot Rafflesia – the biggest flower on the Earth while making your way to the hot spring.

13. Endau Rompin National Park

Just like the Taman Negara, Endau Rompin National Park which consists one of the world’s oldest rainforest has so much to offer. If you wonder, it has its name from the 2 rivers flowing through the park, which are Endau River and Rompin River.

This national park is not that easily accessible and the trekking is quite challenging too. However, the difficulty still seduced endless adventure seekers from all over the world every year.

Endau Rompin National Park Highlights:

• Explore deep into the jungle – Guided by Orang Asli (native people) who live in the Kampung Peta, they will show you the edible plants and safe water sources along the way.
• Buaya Sangkut Waterfall – The trek to this pristine waterfall isn’t that easy. It requires rope to assist you in climbing the steep slopes.
• Blue water lake – Due to the sunlight reflection, the lake looks dazzling blue during the day.
• Rubber tube rafting, night safari and night trekking are the activities you shouldn’t miss out too.

14. Legoland Malaysia

Kids rejoice! Specially designed for children aged 2-12, Legoland Malaysia is a Lego theme park perfect for a family holiday. With more than 70 exciting rides, shows, and interactive activities, it brings adventure, fun and education altogether, making your childhood dream comes true!

Legoland Malaysia Highlights:

• Divided into theme park and water park, all attractions inside Legoland Malaysia are made from Lego bricks.
• The theme park consists of 8 themes, namely The Beginning, Lego Kingdom, Lego Technic, Land of Adventure, Miniland, Lego City, Imagination and the newly added indoor themed – Lego Ninjago.
• For the water park, there are surfing opportunities, a lazy river, exciting water slides and many interactive play structures for little ones.
• There is also a Legoland Hotel beside which features comfortable lego-themed rooms to bring every childhood imagination comes to life.

15. Rawa Island

You probably didn’t know Maldives do exist in Malaysia. Off the east coast of Johor lies a hidden gem – Rawa Island which is completely surrounded by majestic coral kingdom.

Snow white sands, dazzling blue sea and rich marine life, the island is just like a paradise you wish you could stay here forever.

Rawa Island Highlights:

• Snorkelling – At just 20-30m from the shore, you can enjoy snorkelling all the way from northern to southern part of the beach.
• Hiking – Explore the inner part of the island through hiking to the hilltop. At the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
• Island hopping – Take part in the island hopping to nearby islands like Mensirip Island and Harimau Island . You can also have a picnic there.
• Kayaking – See the island from a different angle – from the middle of the ocean. It could be the most memorable experience in your lifetime.
• Water slides – Splash into the sea after several twists and turns gliding down the orange slides. Best for thrill seekers.

16. UK Farm

In need a short getaway to nature? At UK Farm in Kluang, Johor, you will be able to experience an agro-vacation that brings you closer to farm animals and its natural surroundings.

Choose one of the UK Farm tour packages offered and start packing your luggage. Let’s go!

UK Farm Highlights:

• Goat Milking Process Centre – See how the experts milk the goat. After that, you can have a taste of the freshest goat milk. Milks and other products are sold here too.
• Jakun Village – Enjoy blowpipe performance, discover the self-made hunting traps and admire the interesting tree house from Orang Asli!
• Animals feeding – Grab the golden chance to feed animals like ostriches and chicken.
• Fruit farm – Pluck yourself some juicy fruits to stay hydrated in the hot afternoon.
• Stunning night life – You can enjoy singing karaoke in room or releasing the stunning sky lanterns into the sky at night!

17. Petronas Twin Towers

You can’t just visit Kuala Lumpur without going to this iconic landmark – Petronas Twin Towers. Inspired by Malaysia’s former Prime Minister – Tun Mahathir Mohamad, this 88-storey twin skyscraper was once the tallest building in the world – from 1998 to 2004. It’s one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

With the built of a sky bridge on the 41st floors, it gives you the chance to touch the skylines of Kuala Lumpur. Sounds amazing? Let’s not miss the chance to see the panoramic views of city landscape from atop while you are here.

Petronas Twin Towers Highlights:

• Suria KLCC – A 6-storey shopping mall that houses top-notch brands of the world, an art gallery, a science discovery centre and a concert hall.
• Aquaria KLCC – With more than 150 species of sea creatures, this aquarium takes you to different underwater landscapes. There’s even a 90m tunnel completely surrounded by sharks and huge stingrays.
• KLCC Park – Visit the park at night to enjoy the amazing dancing music fountain in the middle.

18. Menara KL Tower

Featuring a fantastic observation deck, Menara KL Tower offers every visitor a golden chance to see the sparkling city landscape view which is so glorious regardless day and night.

Together with Petronas Twin Towers, these 2 skyscrapers stand as the most recognizable landmark in Kuala Lumpur and both are the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

Menara KL Tower Highlights:

• KL Tower Observation Deck& Sky Deck – Both decks offer breathtaking views from top. For braver persons, head to the unsheltered Sky Deck for a more overwhelming view.
• 360 Revolving Restaurant – Here, you can enjoy fine dining amidst the clouds – at a height of 282m above the ground.
• Blue Coral Aquarium – This is a tropical rainforest aquarium offering spectrum of coral fishes and sharks. Different species of coral reefs can be spotted too.
• KL Forest Eco-Park – As the tower is nestled in Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, visitors are welcomed to visit this eco-park amongst the hustling city. There’s also a 200m canopy walk offering a vista of greenery.

19. Merdeka Square

A place where Malaysia’s independence was declared; a place where Malayan flag first raised; a place where annual National Day celebrations and the New Year countdown was held. Yes, Merdeka Square which literally means Independence Square is truly the most memorable landmark in Malaysia!

Merdeka Square Highlights:

• National Day Parade is held here every year.
• There is an enormous flag pole with fluttering Malaysian flag – one of the tallest flag poles in the world.
• The Sultan Abdul Samad Building – Built by British, the majestic building now houses office of the Ministry of Malaysia.
• Well-maintained gardens, fountains and terraces, the square is best for an Instagram picture.
• It is easily accessible to other attractions like Kuala Lumpur City Gallery and St Mary’s Anglican Cathedral.

20. Sunway Lagoon

Your best day ever begins here! For every adventurer as well as water activity enthusiasts, Sunway Lagoon is a fun-filled park featuring over 90 thrilling rides and attractions in 6 different zones.

The 6 zones are Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon, Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park and Scream Park. As the park is extremely big, grab a map and fully utilise it to perfectly plan your day!

Also read:  7 Awesome Water Parks In Johor

Sunway Lagoon Highlights:

• Bungee Jump, G-Force X and Go Kart are some of the extreme sports available. Best for adrenaline junkies.
• At the wildlife theatre inside the Wildlife Park, catch the wildlife multi-animal show that starts at 3pm.
• The amusement park houses the first 360-degree rotating pirate ship in Malaysia. It takes you swivelling at 24m above the ground.
• At the surf beach, different waves patterns are generated at up to 8 feet. The experience will definitely delight every aspiring surfer.
• After the day, enjoy your dinner at Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall just located beside Sunway Lagoon.

21. Batu Caves

Dedicated to the Lord Murugan, Batu Caves is also one of the best places to visit in Malaysia that consists of 3 limestone caves featuring Hindu shrines and Hindu temples.

Every year, Batu Caves seduces lots of tourists and worshippers from all over the world, especially when Hindu festival Thaipusam is around the corner.

As this is a religious site, avoid wearing short skirts or hot pants while paying a visit.

Batu Caves Highlights:

• There is a tall golden statue of Lord Muruga at the cave’s entrance.
• Cathedral Cave – The biggest cave here that requires every visitor to climb 272 steps staircases to the top.
• Museum Cave & Art Gallery Cave – Located at the foot of the hill, these 2 caves are fully filled with paintings and Hindu statues. Audio tour is available too.
• Ramayana Cave – A place to learn about the story of Lord Rama.

22. Broga Hill

Nestled in Selangor, Broga Hill is a popular hiking trail among the locals. It gets its name from the Broga River that flows through the vicinity. Every weekend, the place is crowded since early in the morning in order to catch the sunrise. This place is best for a morning person, casual hikers and trail runners.

Broga Hill Highlights:

• There are 3 hilltops in total – Among the 3 hilltops, many said the second hilltop offers the best view.
• Striking view at the peak (400m) – You will see the view of the village and its surrounding greenery until the far horizon. Best if you reach early to catch the golden sunrise!
• The journey is approximately 1-hour . Don’t worry about the difficulty. From easy to moderate level, you can choose the trails according to your fitness level. Along the way, you can take as many pictures as you want.
• Coconut stall – Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink at the foot of the hill after descending from the peak.

23. Georgetown Heritage Walk

Take a heritage walk along the Georgetown and let the street tells you the story from ancient until the present day. Lined with old classic shophouses, this is where the charm of Penang lies at – delicious local delicacies, mixing architecture of eastern and western buildings and wonderful mural arts!

Georgetown Heritage Walk Highlights:

• You don’t need a car to get around the streets. All attractions are within walking distance from each other. However, you can take a trishaw ride to add some colours to your tour.
• Mural arts – There are surprisingly huge amounts of mural arts in every corner of the streets. Sometimes you may need to queue up to take pictures with these mural arts!
• Chew Jetty – Surrounded by wooden houses which are built over the water, there are lots of souvenirs shops and desserts stall lining the way to the jetty. The jetty which locates at the end is famous for photo taking too.
• St George’s Church – Remember to pay a visit to the oldest Anglican church in Southeast part of Asia.
• Goddess of Mercy Temple – Penang’s oldest Chinese temple which overlooks the sea.

24. Penang Hill

Penang Hill is probably the last remaining yet interesting part in Penang where you can have some quiet moments with nature.

It comprises 6 peaks reachable by different hiking trails and there are numerous sights along the way. If you don’t prefer hiking, a Penang Hill Funicular Train is set up to bring you up. At the summit, you will be rewarded with a panoramic vista of the mainland and beautiful islands.

Penang Hill Highlights:

• Penang Hill Funicular Train – Malaysia’s one of a kind train that brings visitors up the hill.
• The highest point of Penang Hill is at the Western Hill, 800m above the sea level. It is accessible via the train.
• Old buildings from British colonial are found on the hill. The famous one would be Bel Retiro – a British government bungalow.
• Mother nature – Immerse in the green nature while taking leisure trek along the trails. Slipper Orchid and Monkey Cup and be spotted along the way.

25. Kek Lok Si Temple

Standing magnificently on the hilltop and facing the sea, Kek Lok Si Temple is Malaysia’s biggest Buddhist temple built in 1891. Divided into 3 zones, the temple boasts hundreds of meaningful sculptures, carvings, murals, as well as the striking pagoda and archway.

It treasures not only the precious Buddha teaching and Chinese culture but also the heritage of Mahayana Buddhism that blends with them in harmony. Every day, the temple is visited by worshippers and tourists from all over the world.

Kek Lok Si Temple Highlights:

• Grand enormous statue of Kuan Yin – Goddess of Mercy is located at hilltop.
• Impressive Rama VI pagoda – A 7-storey high tower located at the center of the temple.
• Fish ponds, turtle ponds, beautiful gardens and 12 lovely animal statues representing each Chinese zodiac sign can be found here.

26. Lost World Tambun

Located at Ipoh, the Lost World Tambun is more than just a fun-filled theme park. Instead, it is an ultimate day and night destination that offers something to every one of us – from amusement park rides to amazing eco-adventure. Educational elements are added to the park too.

Also read:  5 Theme Parks In Johor For Families & Kids

Lost World Tambun Highlights:

• Water Park – Wave pool, adventure river and water slides offered are friendly to all ages.
• Amusement Park – For braver ones, this area offers you an array of speedy rides that will have you soaring or flying in the sky.
• Tin Valley – A place to educate today’s generation about the knowledge of tin mining.
• Tiger Valley – Catch the tiger feeding show and be amazed by their strength and power.
• Adventure Park – Work as a team to overcome all challenges in the team building activities.
• Petting Zoo – Be friends with animals from more than 55 species.
• Luminous Forest – Immerse yourself in the world of dazzling flowers and magical creatures.

27. Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

Literally means the Cave of Ultimate Blis, Kek Lok Tong is a unique cavern temple situated at the outskirts of the Ipoh city. It’s great to pay a visit in the morning because the natural lightning and the cool breeze is extremely refreshing. For Buddhism, you can pray here too.

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple Highlights:

• A lotus candle can be purchased and you can write your names down. The money goes for a prayer offering.
• The temple is located inside the magnificent limestone cave. There are plenty of wonderful Buddhist sculptures around.
• At the garden, visitors can jog along the trails that surround the lakes. There are reflexology footpaths too.
• There is also an elegant pond filled with fishes, turtles and waterlilies.

28. Perhentian Islands

Located 21km off the coast of Terengganu, Perhentian Islands consist of 2 islands which are famed for their pristine nature and rich marine life. The bigger island is mainly for luxury getaway; while the smaller island offers budget accommodations, which are suitable for backpackers.

Perhentian Island Highlights:

• Scuba diving – Despite discovering fishes and coral reefs, you may encounter harmless sharks and sea turtles while diving here.
• Snorkelling – The popular snorkelling spots include Shark Point, Teluk Pauh and Tanjung Basi. You can even snorkel right in front of your accommodation too.
• Kayaking – You can also paddle around the island on your own. Sometimes you may discover the secluded beaches that give you more privacy.

29. Redang Island

Another elegant island located 45km off the coast of Terengganu is Redang Island. It is famous places to visit in Malaysia for its dazzling blue water; snow white beach and it boasts many tropical fishes inhabiting the coral reefs too. This makes the island a delightful destination for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Due to the rich marine life, the island is declared as a part of the Redang Marine Park, whereby visitors have to pay an entrance fee upon arrival. Another thing to take note is: jet skiing, water skiing and fishing are banned to protect the quality and serenity of the marine park.

Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan

Redang Island Highlights:

• Snorkelling – This is the must-do activity on the island and there are endless snorkelling tours to nearby islands. There is a shipwreck near the jetty, which is a perfect spot for exploration via snorkelling.
• Turtle watching – The island houses a turtle conservation center and a green turtle nursery – SEATRU. You can volunteer, help them to collect turtle eggs and incubate them.

30. Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi Cable Car (aka Sky Cab) is one of the relaxing and engaging places to visit in Malaysia you can indulge in Langkawi Island.

Depart from the Base Station, the cable car ride will bring you up to the Mount Machincang. At the top station, lots of activities are available and it’s hard to enjoy them all in just a day.

The 15-minute cable car takes you up to a height of 708m in a very steep gradient. Along the way, you will see spectacular views of islands, waterfalls, mountains and occasional sight of birds and wildlife.

Langkawi Cable Car Highlights:

• At the top station, you can access the SkyGlide – a unique elevator with glass panels on every side to provide a clear view of Machincang mountain. Or, you can walk on the Langkawi Sky Bridge for an unfolding mountain viewing experience.

31. Langkawi Sky Bridge

Completed in 2004, Langkawi Sky Bridge is a free span pedestrian bridge located on the summit of Mount Manchincang. The curving design is practised to maximise the mountain viewing experience.

Swinging out to offer a special spatial experience to all visitor, a walk on the sky bridge is truly the most amazing place to visit in Langkawi Island you can experience. You really feel yourself standing at the same height with the mountains around you!

Langkawi Sky Bridge Highlights:

• Built by stainless steel, this sky bridge is 125m long and 1.8m wide and can accommodate 200 people at once.
• The sky bridge is accessible through the cable car ride to the top station followed by an inclinator lift ride called SkyGlide. Or, you can choose a nature walk from the top station to the sky bridge.

32. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Langkawi

Spanning over 100 square kilometers, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a nature reserve park consists of mangrove swamps, vertical karstic hills and beautiful beaches. Several limestone formations that aged over 500 million years old are discovered here.

The park can be explored by taking a boat cruise along the Kilim river. However, if you want to explore the park at your own, there are kayaks and private boats available and can be rented at almost all of the tour operators on the island.

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Highlights:

• When the boat takes you to dense mangroves swamps, you will see many amazing animals like monitor lizards, mud carbs, otter and sometimes crocodiles.
• Eagle feeding – This is truly an unforgettable sight where you will see eagles catching for chicken thrown from the boat.
• Bat Cave – A place where you will see colonies of bats flying all over your head or hanging on the wall.
• Tanjung Rhu – The boat tour will bring you to this white sandy beach fringed by casuarina tree. You can swim or take a stroll here.

33. A Famosa Fort

Built in 1511, A Famosa Fort aka Porta De Santiago stands proudly as one of the oldest surviving European remains in eastern country, making it the major tourist destination in Malaysia.

Located in Malacca, this historical sightseeing spot is built by Portuguese to defend themselves against invasion after they defeated the local Sultanate. During the time, the fort housed the entire government administration, hospital, churches as well as key towers.

Later in 1806, the fort was destroyed by British, left only the front gate which we see today.

A Famosa Fort Highlights:

• Typical tourist photo in Malacca was taken here.
• You can learn about the history of the Portuguese.
• This fort is the entryway to the St Paul’s Church at the top of the hill.

34. Jonker Street

If you want to enjoy the best food in Malacca , then you shouldn’t miss out the Jonker Street which is the center street of the Chinatown in Malacca! There are many antique shops lining the street, be it clothing, crafts or local food, you can find them here.

The best part about Jonker Street is, it turns into a vibrant night market every Friday and Saturday, selling everything ranging from tasty street food to unique gifts. A lot of hotels and homestays can be found here too.

Jonker Street Highlights:

• Jonker Walk Night Market – Everything about the night market is colourful. Food, bars, live performances and clothes are all available.
• There are museums along the street showcasing the culture and history of Malacca. For instance, Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum and Cheng Ho’s Cultural Museum.
• For Buddhist, do pay a visit to the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple which believed to be one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Malaysia.

35. Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a coastal town nestled in Negeri Sembilan which widely known as a beach resort destination. Fringed with long stretches of beaches and beautiful sea, it boasts exciting attractions like extreme park, army museum and ostrich farm too, suitable for a wholesome day.

As Port Dickson is well-connected to Singapore and Kuala Lumpur through the highway, it serves as an easily accessible family vacation destination. Besides, there are many budget and luxury resorts and hotels available for a pleasant stay.

Image credits: lexishibiscuspd.com

Port Dickson Highlights:

• Best beaches to visit include Pantai Cahaya Negeri, Pantai Tanjung Biru and Pantai Saujana.
• To learn about the military history and weaponry of Malaysia, go to the Port Dickson Army Museum and take as many pictures as you can.
• You can pet and ride an ostrich at the PD Ostrich Farm.
• For spectacular view of the Straits of Malacca and secluded beaches from above, go to the Cape Rachado – the lighthouse at the southern part of Port Dickson.

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• 16 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor
• 14 Caravan Parks in Johor  (Malaysia’s First Ever Caravan Park)

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Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

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

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

July in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

June in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

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Top 10 Best Places To Visit Singapore & Malaysia

The duet neighboring countries of Singapore and Malaysia are the two amazing Southeast Asia destinations where travelers can deeply immerse in the rich tapestry of Asia culture, contemporary passion as well as the native incredible wilderness. From the diversity of cultural landmarks standing for different traditions to the series of natural reserves, national parks; from the modern sublime metropolises of Kuala Lumpur & Singapore to the charming ancient towns and pristine rainforests & offshore islands. Among all tourist sites in two countries, below famous attractions are top 10 places to visit in any Singapore Malaysia Tours:

1. Singapore Metropolis Center - Singapore

Being a little island country but Singapore city center alone lets it become the country's icon due to countless extraordinary landmarks, which made Singapore incredibly big in surprise in every corner. Home to the country’s most phenomenal architectural places: Esplanade, Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay, Botanical Garden, Mount Faber, Singapore Flyer, ... Singapore city center is also a cultural hotspot with stunning temples and bustling streets for dining and shopping from traditional Chinatown to modern international shopping style of Orchard Road or Mustafa Shopping Center. Myriads of offerings available along with young, dynamic, and modern city life of Singapore center is always an ideal place for travelers from all ages around the world. And partaking in a city tour discovering Singapore center is definitely a must in every Singapore travel bucket list.

2. Jurong Bird Park - Singapore

For those who are into nature, especially birdlife, Jurong Bird Park is a place that should not be missed when traveling to Singapore. This sublime bird park covers a vast area of approx 0.2 km2 on Jurong Hill and is the home to around 3500 birds in over 400 different species. The park is famous for not only being among the largest bird parks in Asia but also its large and immersive walk-in aviaries allowing visitors to easily catch an up-close view into various birds and their habitat. Some endangered species including hornbills and sun conures could be even spotted here. Offering an interesting opportunity to witness the colorful birdlife in a natural-like environment, Jurong Bird Park is a worth-visiting tourist attraction for traveling families with kids as well as anyone interested in nature and birds.

3. Sentosa Island - Singapore

Sentosa Island itself is a popular place for wide-ranging recreational activities in Singapore. Locating luxury resorts, world-class theme park Universal Studios, golf courses, water park, and 2km stretching beaches, Sentosa is perfect for a day of leisure from the city center of Singapore. Series of amusement parks on the island feature a lot of excitement from shows and attractions based on popular films & TV shows, ziplining, relaxing cable car rides to thrilling aquatic adventures or witnessing the musical fountain show Wings Of Time. Due to its all incredible highlights, Sentosa island is among Singapore’s sought-after family-friendly attractions where every member can enjoy playing time together.

4. Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia

Being the country’s capital city, Kuala Lumpur is commonly known as the starting point in every Malaysia tour. The city is renowned for not only iconic skyscraper landmarks of Petronas Twin Towers & Menara KL Tower, British colonial-era structures: Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building but also bustling Chinatown KL with Petaling Street perfectly representing Malaysian culture and its people. 

The most preferred thing-to-do in Kuala Lumpur is joining a city tour hopping on the prominent hotspots around the city beside listed above landmarks such as: National Mosque, the National Monument, the Gate of King’s Palace, Sri Mahamariamman Temple, etc. Strolling along busy streets in Kuala Lumpur, you will catch a glimpse of Malaysian history, culture, and lifestyle through nice walks and local food tastes en-route. 

5. Cameron Highlands - Malaysia

Endowed with pleasant climate all year round, Cameron Highlands, beautiful lush mountainous region to the North of Kuala Lumpur in the state of Pahang, is an ideal place for weekend getaways as well as honeymoon scenic retreats far from the bustling city life. Renowned for its richness of tropical rainforest biodiversity and the vast area of tea plantations from the colonial era, Cameron Highlands attracts visitors by landscape-viewing excursions, calm immersion in the greenery as well as enjoyable hikings for natural photography, spotting native birds and plants, or possibly witnessing sunset and sunrise amid breathtaking set of lavish mountainscape.

6. Malacca - Malaysia

From Kuala Lumpur to the southeast houses the country’s oldest ancient town of Malacca, in the same name of the state, which is famed for its rich history over six hundred years. Once a busy trading center in Malacca strait during the Malacca Sultanate era, the city of Malacca is a rich tapestry of cultural diversity where a lot of cultures from East to Wests meet and exist at the same time. Became a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site in 2008, Malacca’s city center nowadays still maintains a lot of historical landmarks from colonial structures with imprints of British, Dutsch, and Portuguese; Malaysia’s oldest Chinese Temple of Cheng Hoon Teng to scenic old streets along the river banks with beautiful ancient houses, and bustling walking Jonker Street well-known as Chinatown in Malacca. Enjoying a pleasant visit to Malacca, people can immerse themselves in the heritage ambiance as well as get to know more about Malaysia’s history in the old days through a lot of great attractions around the city.

7. Malaysian Borneo - Malaysia

Separate from Malaysia mainland, Malaysian Borneo, a part of Borneo island- the third world’s largest island, is a dreamland for any nature lover and adventure buff. Home to among the world’s oldest tropical forests along with Mt. Kinabalu - the country’s highest peak, Malaysian Borneo proudly teems with amazing natural gems and incredible wildlife richness from mountain to sea including flora and fauna biodiversity as well as abundance of distinctive endemic species.

Containing two states of Sabah and Sarawak, travelers could start Malaysian Borneo tour from either Kuching (Sarawak’s capital city) or Kota Kinabalu (Sabah’s capital city). Among countless tourist sites in Malaysian Borneo, the sought-after tourist attractions are mainly parks and natural reserves such as Kota Kinabalu National Park that is famous for Mt. Kinabalu and affluent rainforest ecosystem, Gunung Mulu National Park with notable extraordinary limestone karst formations of Deer Cave & the Pinnacles of Gunung Api, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and the Sipadan & Mabul islands as prominent snorkeling destinations with alluring white sandy beaches, colorful coral reefs & aqua ecosystems, and numerous sanctuaries conserving endemic animals: Orangutans, Sun bear, Bornean elephants, various bird species, night frog, etc. Besides discovering pristine natural beauty of Malaysian Borneo, interesting excursions to noted cultural spots and exotic tribal villages here are also pluses making your voyage complete with an insightful overview of all Malaysian Borneo local highlights.

8. Penang - Malaysia

Penang, also commonly known as Pulau Pinang, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Malaysia notable with the multicultural capital city of George Town - UNESCO Heritage Site. Besides George Town as an outstanding cultural hotspot with charming old houses along narrow streets, Penang also has a lot of worth-visiting places such as Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Hill, Fort Cornwallis, and numerous sandy beaches for hours of chilling. For any foodie, Penang is a wonderful place of various cuisines from local specialties to fusion dishes up to international cooking style. Impressive history, amazing multicultural, beautiful old streets, delicious food and relaxing beaches, Penang encompasses all to fulfill your Malaysia holiday with the most incredible travel experiences.

9. Langkawi - Malaysia

Island of Langkawi, which is derived from “reddish brown eagle” in Malay language, is a popular beach destination for both locals and foreigners. Located near the border with Thailand, the island Langkawi has byname “The Jewel of Kedah” due to its stunning turquoise clear seawater, pretty alluring beaches, abundant ecosystems, and a lot of natural treasures from mountain to sea. Being one of the most favorite stops in most beach vacations and honeymoons in Malaysia, Langkawi offers a wide range of activities for visitors including island-hopping tour, visits to series of Langkawi’s prominent landmarks, landscape viewing from SkyBridge on the Mt. Mat Chinchang, joining Mangrove tour or just merely unwinding at your leisure time on Langkawi’s beautiful beaches. 

10. Selangor - Malaysia

Encircling the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, the state of Selangor attracts tourists by its scores of gorgeous spiritual places including the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque & the holy limestone cave temple of Batu Caves with a giant golden statue of the Hindu God Lord Murugan standing at the entrance and the awe-inspiring theme park of Sunway Lagoon for families. Just a short ride from Kuala Lumpur, people will get a chance to admire the beauty of colorful architecture as well as have fun at their own leisure with a lot of family-friendly activities. 

Singapore Malaysia Tours are always full of joy with a lot of experiences discovering all the ways of life here. Traveling across the two countries, you may have a stunning insight into various local charms from natural to cultural attractions, from historic to modern hotspots. Feel free to contact our team of Asia Tours for the fullest Malaysia Singapore Travel Guide if you are seeking recommendations for your own ideal itineraries.

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Attractions to Visit in Malaysia & Singapore

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Places To Visit In Malaysia

Legoland malaysia.

• Legoland Malaysia is an international theme park located in Johor, a vibrant region in the country, and ranks as one of the best places to visit in Malaysia and Singapore.
• This theme park offers an immersive experience with its intricate LEGO sculptures, thrilling rides, and interactive activities.
• You can explore different themed areas like Miniland, where iconic landmarks are recreated using LEGO bricks.
• The water park section provides a refreshing escape with its slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
• With its entertaining shows and workshops, Legoland Malaysia guarantees a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.

Langkawi Cable Car

• The Langkawi Cable Car, or SkyCab, is situated on the captivating island of Langkawi.
• A ride on this offers breathtaking views of the lush rainforest, the Andaman Sea, and the seven wells waterfall.
• Reaching the peak of Mount Machinchang, you are treated to a stunning panoramic view, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
• The cable car ride is both exhilarating and serene, making it a favourite among nature lovers and adventure seekers.
• At the summit, you can explore the SkyBridge, a curved pedestrian bridge that offers panoramic views and memorable photo opportunities.

Best of Thailand

• KL Tower, also known as Menara Kuala Lumpur, is an iconic landmark in the capital city of Malaysia.
• Standing at 421 metres tall, it offers a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur's skyline and is also regarded as one of the tallest freestanding towers in the whole world.
• The Observation Deck here provides a stunning 360-degree vista, allowing you to admire the city's architectural wonders and natural beauty.
• For a more thrilling experience, you can venture at the Sky Deck, a glass-floored platform that offers a vertigo-inducing view.
• KL Tower is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a bird's-eye view of the city.

• Batu Caves, located in Selangor, just outside of Kuala Lumpur, is an iconic Hindu religious site that draws millions every year.
• Here, you will be captivated by the towering golden statue of Lord Murugan and the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the limestone caves.
• To reach the Temple Cave, you need to climb 272 steep steps, which adds an element of adventure to the experience.
• Inside, you'll find elaborately decorated shrines and colourful statues dedicated to Hindu deities.
• The annual Thaipusam festival is also celebrated here, and attracts thousands of devotees who participate in a vibrant procession up the caves, making it an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Best of Bangkok

Lost World of Tambun

• If you are planning on visiting Singapore and Malaysia, make sure to include a visit to the Lost World of Tambun, located in Ipoh, which is an all-in-one theme park, and offers thrilling rides, hot springs, and a petting zoo.
• Its unique feature is the natural setting amidst limestone cliffs over 400 million years old, as well as the rejuvenating hot springs, where you can relax and soak in the healing mineral waters.
• A visit here lets you soak in the blend of adventure and nature, promising an experience beyond the ordinary.
• During your visit, you can also indulge in a variety of water slides, or head to the wave pool, in addition to cruising down the lazy river.

Aquaria KLCC

• When looking for popular tourist places in Malaysia and Singapore, head over to Aquaria KLCC, which provides you with an immersive marine experience right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
• Home to over 5000 exhibits of aquatic and terrestrial animals, it gives you the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring diversity of underwater life, walking through a 90-metre transparent tunnel, making it a memorable
• underwater journey.
• It is here where you can witness unique marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and vibrant coral reefs.
• You can also head to the Interactive exhibits and educational displays, which provide valuable insights into marine conservation.

Best of Vietnam

Petronas Twin Tower

• The Petronas Twin Towers, iconic to Kuala Lumpur's skyline, stand tall as the epitome of the country’s urban advancements and is definitely one of the very best places to see in Singapore and Malaysia.
• Ranked as the tallest twin towers in the world, they offer you an unrivalled perspective of the city from their Skybridge and Observation Deck.
• These towering skyscrapers are connected by a sky bridge, which offers a unique vantage point of the cityscape.
• The towers also house a world-class shopping mall, Suria KLCC, which offers a range of luxury brands and dining options.

Sunway Lagoon

• Sunway Lagoon is a premier water park and theme park located in Petaling Jaya, near Kuala Lumpur.
• It features six different zones, including a water park, amusement park, scream park, extreme park, wildlife park and the Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon, which are home to a wide range of thrilling water slides and attractions.
• Sunway Lagoon is also home to the Vuvuzela, which is the world's biggest and tallest water slide, in addition to the country’s first surf simulator, the FlowRider.
• Sunway Lagoon's highlight is its wildlife park, where you can interact with various animals and enjoy educational shows.

Best of Singapore

Places To Visit In Singapore

Gardens by the bay.

• Gardens by the Bay is a spectacular horticultural oasis that showcases the beauty of nature and is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia and Singapore.
• Spanning 101 hectares, the gardens are home to various themed gardens, such as the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, which house a diverse range of plants from around the world.
• The iconic Supertrees, with their towering vertical gardens, create a stunning spectacle with their dazzling light displays.
• You can also enjoy the serene atmosphere of the lakes, stroll along the scenic walkways, and admire the vibrant floral displays.

Universal Studios Singapore

• Universal Studios Singapore is a thrilling theme park that offers an immersive experience for movie enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
• Divided into seven themed zones, the park features exciting rides, live shows, and attractions inspired by popular films and cinematic worlds, like Ancient Egypt, Madagascar, or the Lost World.
• Here you can also embark on adrenaline-pumping adventures, such as the Battlestar Galactica roller coasters and the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure.
• The park also offers opportunities to meet beloved characters from movies like Shrek and Transformers.

Best of Hong Kong

Singapore Flyer

• Standing at 165 metres, the Singapore Flyer is considered to be one of the most popular tourist places in Malaysia and Singapore.
• It is a captivating giant observation wheel that offers panoramic views of the city skyline and beyond.
• While enjoying a ride on the Singapore Flyer, you can capture stunning vistas of attractions like the historic buildings of the Colonial District and Gardens by the Bay, along with the Marina Bay Sands.
• Each rotation takes approximately 30 minutes, allowing you to soak in the stunning views and capture memorable photographs.
• For a luxurious experience, you can even indulge in a private capsule with additional amenities, such as a dining option or champagne.

Singapore Zoo

• The Singapore Zoo is a world-renowned wildlife park that provides an immersive and educational experience for visitors.
• Spanning 26 hectares, the zoo is home to over 2,800 animals representing around 300 different wildlife species from around the world.
• With its open and spacious enclosures, the zoo offers a naturalistic environment for the animals.
• You can also observe fascinating wildlife up close, including orangutans, tigers, and elephants.
• The zoo also organises interactive animal shows and feeding sessions, allowing you to learn more about the diverse animal kingdom and conservation efforts.

Best of Kuala Lumpur

• When visiting Singapore and Malaysia, spend some time at Marina Bay, which is a vibrant waterfront precinct that showcases Singapore's modernity and architectural marvels.
• The iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel, with its unique boat-shaped rooftop, is a landmark that dominates the skyline here.
• During your visit, you can also explore the luxurious shopping mall, dine at world-class restaurants, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
• You can also enjoy the nightly light and water show, called the Spectra, which is sure to dazzle you with its synchronised fountains, music, and visual projections.

ArtScience Museum

• The ArtScience Museum combines art, science, and technology to create a unique and thought-provoking experience, and is one of the most unique places to visit in Malaysia and Singapore.
• The museum's distinctive lotus-inspired architecture is a sight to behold and attracts visitors from all around the world.
• Inside, you can explore a variety of captivating exhibitions in the 21 gallery spaces, all of which delve into topics ranging from history and culture to innovation and sustainability.
• Each exhibition combines interactive displays, multimedia installations, and immersive storytelling techniques to engage and inspire visitors.
• Some of the highlights of the museum include the permanent exhibit, Future World, where art meets digital technology.

Best of Langkawi

Bird Paradise

• When looking for tourist places in Malaysia and Singapore, head over to Bird Paradise, also known as Jurong Bird Park, a part of the Mandai Wildlife Sanctuary.
• It is an aviary wonderland and is home to more than 5,000 birds across 400 species, some of which are threatened.
• During your visit, you can admire the vibrant plumage of exotic birds, witness captivating bird shows, and even hand-feed friendly lorikeets, among other things.
• The park offers educational exhibits and interactive experiences, providing insights into bird conservation and environmental awareness.

People Also Ask About Malaysia

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Malaysia Top Attractions

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

Dataran Lang, known as eagle square is yet another commonly visited destination amongst many other famous Langkawi places to visit. It has gained popularity for holding the huge sculpture of an eagle, which is considered to be one of the best manmade creations in Langkawi. The statue of the eagle is postured like it is ready to fly and can be spotted from various points in Pulau. To see this 12 meters statue, along with the views of Kuah Bay, tourists have to ride on a ferry.The miniature terraces, footbridges, fountains, eateries all together here make this place apt for a fun-filled day visit trip, enjoyable by all age groups. From eagle square, the view of numerous ferries plying in the ocean has also been appreciated by everybody who has ever visited!Location: Southeast corner of Pulau Langkawi, Kuah JettyTimings: 24 hours a day, every dayAlso Checkout & Book: Petronas Towers TicketsPopular Read: Things to Do in Langkawi

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

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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

Malaysia is a popular travel destination but when many visitors think about where to visit in Malaysia, they settle for the big city of Kuala Lumpur and the beautiful beaches in Penang and on the island of Langkawi, leaving so many other best cities in Malaysia to visit.

The reality is that there are so many more Malaysia tourist attractions to see. Malaysia spans several large and small islands, and the truth is there are many answers to the question “where to travel in Malaysia”!

A diverse country, there are so many wonderful and attractive places in Malaysia. Not just in its pristine beaches and islands but nature parks too. You could spend months visiting Malaysia tourist places and not cover it all.

What’s more, Malaysia is very budget friendly, the locals are warm and welcoming and the food is inexpensive and delicious.

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

So, if you’re wondering Malaysia – where to travel or perhaps you need more encouragement to visit Malaysia? Read on for our list of 21 of the best places to go in Malaysia. This is our ultimate list of the very best Malaysia travel destinations and you’re sure to find some must see places in Malaysia that are perfect for your vacation!

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!

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

A list of the best places to visit in Malaysia would be incomplete without the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Top on my list of Malaysia attractions 2024, KL is often the first place people think of when planning where to go in Malaysia, and regularly features as one of the top cities to visit in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in Malaysia, the major financial center of a melting pot of different cultures. This makes it one of the most exciting cities in Malaysia and shouldn’t be missed.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur include a trip to the world famous Petronas Towers if you’re looking for the best place to visit in KL, taking a trip to the ancient Hindu temple at the Batu Caves, sampling some of the most amazing street food, visiting markets, mosques, theme parks, shopping and much more.

There’s no shortage of wonderful places to visit in Kuala Lumpur and you’ll likely struggle to fit in all the Kuala Lumpur tourist spots in a single visit. When it comes to the Malaysia best places to visit, Kuala Lumpur is a very strong contender, and it’s also one of the most fun places to visit in Malaysia.

If you’re wondering where to start with where to travel in Malaysia 2024, then you can do no wrong with starting in KL.

Getting to Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Lumpur has two major airports – KLIA and KLIA2. It is also well connected to the rest of Malaysia by bus and train.

Top Attraction to visit: The Petronas Towers are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia.

Top place to stay:  Berjaya Times Square Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

One of the top travel destinations Malaysia has (especially for beach vacations), Langkawi is a Malaysia must see and many would argue the best island in Malaysia. Not only a beautiful destination with great beaches and attractions, there’s something to suit everyone in Langkawi on either ends of the main island.

When you picture best places to visit Malaysia in your head, it’s very likely the image you see is of Langkawi. This island is definitely one of the options for best place for vacation in Malaysia.

Langkawi is actually an archipelago but the main island offers a range of different locations to visit and stay. Pantai Cenang is one of the most popular beach destinations and home to Underwater World. Other more peaceful destinations are dotted throughout the island. If you love beaches, Langkawi is definitely one of the places to visit in Malaysia that you’ll want to consider. 

Temurun Waterfall is another popular attraction in Langkawi, as well as the Langkawi Cable Car which takes you to the peak of Gunung Machinchang where you’ll find restaurants, shops and other attractions. This is the best way to see that this option of Malaysia best places is not just about gorgeous beaches but also gorgeous jungle interior.

Getting to Langkawi: The best way to get to Langkawi is to fly. Flights leave multiple times daily from Kuala Lumpur and other cities.

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

Top place to stay:  Ritz-Carlton Langkawi – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

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Another popular Malaysia tourist spots and top destinations in Malaysia is the state of Penang. This state offers many Malaysia places to visit for both first time and return visitors as it’s quite diverse, and it’s one of my personal favourite places to go Malaysia.

There’s a multicultural mix of influences and plenty of beaches, interesting architecture and affordable resort style accommodation. It’s also one of the best places in Malaysia to eat, offering some of the best cheap food.

If you’re wondering what to visit in Malaysia, you will love the array of things to do and see in Penang. Penang is home to important and culturally significant temples like Lok Si Temple, as well as British colonial leftovers like Fort Cornwallis, dating back to the 18th century when Penang was occupied by the British, as well as the historic George Town.

There’s so much to see and do in Penang, making it one of the top places in Malaysia and somewhere you should add to your list of what to see in Malaysia!

In fact, the combination of great food, interesting heritage, beaches and ease of getting here and around makes Penang my personal pick for the best place in Malaysia and definitely one of the best holiday places in Malaysia. If you’re new to Malaysia, best place to travel options are plenty here in Penang.

Getting to Penang: You can get to Penang by train, bus or plane. From Kuala Lumpur, flying is the quickest way to get there.

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

Top place to stay:  Shangri La Rasa Sayang – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

Malaysia is well known as the home of the orangutan, and another thing visitors often include on their list of what to do in Malaysia is seeing orangutans.

One of the famous places in Malaysia where you can see orangutans is Bukit Merah.

Located just outside of Taiping, the town is surrounded by a lake. Its main attraction is Orang Utan Island – a sustainable tourist destination and one of the top things to see in Malaysia. The town is home to another sustainable attraction, the EcoPark – an enclosure home to many native and rare animals.

When you’re comparing Malaysia vacation destinations, know that this isn’t a cheap destination to visit, but this eco-tourist destination puts what they receive back into maintaining the environment, so it’s a place you can feel good about visiting. It really is the best place to see the orangutan in peninsular Malaysia.

If you want to support ecotourism and want to have a once in a lifetime experience, then Bukit Merah is definitely one of the best place to vacation in Malaysia options for you.

Getting to Bukit Merah: The best way to get there is to drive from Taiping. There are also buses. It’s also possible to day trip here from Penang.

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

Top place to stay:  Bukit Merah Laketown Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Kuala Kangsar

Kuala Kangsar is a royal capital, and there is some amazing architecture to see and explore. When we visited, we found the city quiet yet still with a commanding presence owing to the grand buildings. These buildings are why it’s on this Malaysia place to visit list.

This is a town of palaces, and there are plenty to view like the Istana Iskandariah, the Istana Kenangan (constructed of wood), and the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery.

If you want to go and explore somewhere off the beaten tourist track, then this best destination Malaysia might just be right up your street.

The major draw-card of this town is definitely the pretty architecture. There aren’t many attractions, but it does make a nice Malaysia tourist destination for a day trip.

Getting to Kuala Kangsar: You can get there by car, train and bus. The journey takes about an hour from Ipoh.

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

Top place to stay:  The Shop Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

When we visited Ipoh, we didn’t know what to expect. We ended up loving it. Ipoh is the state capital of Perak and a fantastic destination for a short getaway with plenty of interesting places in Malaysia located in this city. Ipoh is definitely one of the nice places to visit in Malaysia which sees fewer tourists (a good thing in our view!).

If you’re idea of a Malaysia best place to visit includes fantastic food, interesting attractions and lots of fun then visit Ipoh.

There’s the unfinished Kellie’s Castle to explore, Tempurung Cave, the popular Sunway Lost World Of Tambun (great for families) and much more. The Old Town area is a fabulous place to walk around with cute alleyways and numerous street art to find and enjoy.

Plus, there’s Ipoh’s famous white coffee – a must try.

Ipoh is also a gateway to the Cameron Highlands – coming up next. If you’re wondering where to go in Malaysia for short trip, or just looking for an interesting place to visit in Malaysia, Ipoh is somewhere to consider.

Getting to Ipoh: The best way to get there is train, bus or hiring a car. You can also fly.

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

Top place to stay:  Regalodge – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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Cameron Highlands

To escape the city life in Kuala Lumpur and the heat at lower altitudes, Malaysians go to The Cameron Highlands. It’s easy to see why and be tempted to join them if you’re looking for the best place for holiday in Malaysia to escape the heat and see something of the interiors of Malaysia too.

This best place to go in Malaysia option is beautiful. Its located high in the hills with rolling tea plantations, places of worship, museums and more. It’s also home to the highest point in Malaysia – Gunung Brinchang , as well as many beautiful hiking trails.

The higher altitude makes it a great place to cool down in tropical Malaysia, and with plenty of places to eat, drink and stay to suit all different budgets, it makes for a great place to see in Malaysia. If you love hill stations and greenery, the Cameron Highlands are definitely one of the best places in Malaysia to visit for your trip.

Getting to Cameron Highlands: The best way to get to the Cameron Highlands is by bus or hiring a car. Top Attraction to visit:   Boh Tea Plantation

Top place to stay: Nova Highlands Resort and Residence – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a popular destination from Kuala Lumpur for a beach getaway. There are plenty of top quality resorts with particularity good accommodation for families. We found the Avillion Port Dickson to be the best resort in Malaysia for family visits to Port Dickson or the Grand Lexis if you want your own pool. If you’re looking for a beach holiday within easy access of KL and fun places in Malaysia by the beach, PD is a place to consider visiting.

The resorts are generally outside of the main town, which is small but does have some nice restaurants and shops. There’s also some pretty beaches, but many of these are private.

There’s not a huge range of Malaysia attractions in Port Dickson, but there is the Tanjung Tuan lookout. Time is best spent here at one of the great resorts or the beach. This is my pick of the Malaysia destinations if you want some great priced resort time.

Getting to Port Dickson: You can get there by bus, taxi or rental car. It is about 60km from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

Top place to stay: Lexis Hibiscus – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

One of the other best places to see in Malaysia is Melaka. This is also one of the top historical places in Malaysia to visit, and a contender for the best city in Malaysia if you like your cities bite-sized, navigable and full of history. Malacca is also home to some of the main tourist attractions in Malaysia when it comes to cultural history.

This is a very pretty city and one of Malaysia points of interest for those interested in theology. The city is dotted with numerous churches like St Paul’s church, as well as temples and mosques, thanks to its rich cultural past.

There are also numerous other heritage sites around the city. What’s more, it’s a super easy place to explore on foot or on a trishaw.

Two of the major attractions in Melaka are the A Famosa Resort and the Dutch town of Stadthuys. Jonker Street is where you’ll find many of the main attractions. You’ll also want to visit Melaka River and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Melaka isn’t just a great place to visit but also makes top 10 places to visit in Malaysia lists because it is so easy to get here. It’s very accessible from Kuala Lumpur or Kuala Lumpur International Airport and you can day trip here from either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Getting to Melaka: You can get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

Top place to stay:  Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is one of the easy places to go in Malaysia from Singapore as it’s just across the border.

While not necessarily being one of the Malaysia holiday destinations, it’s still worth a visit, particularly if you are in Singapore. The city offers visitors several attractions including a mix of museums and natural landmarks like the Gunung Ledang National Park and Gunung Lambak.

For families with young kids, there’s also the famous Legoland which makes the city one of the best places to visit in Malaysia with family.

Other attractions include the traditional Kukup Fishing Village. You can also explore the shops and restaurants at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

As the city is also just across the border from Singapore and one of the practical places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore, it’s one of the best place to visit in Malaysia for a one day trip.

Getting to Johor Bahru: Get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

Top place to stay:  Hotel Jen – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

Tioman Island was once named one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Despite being a somewhat popular nice place to visit in Malaysia, it’s easy to feel like you have escaped the world here. It’s relatively untouched and makes for a wonderful destination to visit in Malaysia. And the beaches are some of the best in Malaysia.

The island is surrounded by coral reefs which make it great for scuba diving. Must see spots include Air Batang (or ABC Beach), one of the main settlements on the island, where you can find cheap beer and meals, and J uara beach.

The Island is also great for hiking. You’ll want to visit Aash Waterfall, hike across the island from west to east , as well as visit Paya beach.

If you are looking for Malaysia places to go which are not too hard to get to but feel like you are away from it all, consider Tioman.

Getting to Tioman Island: You can get to Tioman Island by ferry or plane. Flights leave from both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Click here for full details.

Top Attraction to visit: Air Batang is the main village on the island.

Top place to stay:  Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

You may have noticed a theme – Malaysia is home to a vast array of beautiful national parks. Taman Negara National Park holds the title as Malaysia’s largest national park. This 130 million year old rainforest is home to a huge array of local plants and animals and offers plenty of short and long hikes. It’s definitely worth adding to your Malaysia where to go list.

Once inside the park, there are several attractions to visit including Lata Berkoh , which is a short boat ride and a place where you can swim. You can also opt to climb Bukit Teresek, a 334m high hill. The Canopy Walkway is also a must do – and the longest like it in the world.

Note that the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is between February and September each year. If you are visiting at this time of year, definitely go to this Malaysia best place.

Getting to Taman Negara National Park: You can get there by train, taxi or car. It is a 3.5 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

Top place to stay:  Mutiara Taman Negara Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Speaking of tourist places in Malaysia, have you considered Cherating if you’re planning to visit Malaysia 2024? This laid back coastal town has some lovely beach resorts and guest houses, as well as Club Med is also located here – arguably the best beach resort in Malaysia.

While the main attraction in Cherating are the beaches and resorts, there’s other Malaysia interesting places to visit like the nearby Turtle Island. This island is free to enter but you need to pay for the boat there. It helps nurture endangered turtles in an environment where they can thrive.

The beaches in Cherating aren’t as pretty as other parts of Malaysia (apart from the stunning option at Club Med) but the resorts are great and many are well priced. It’s a great place for a short trip in Malaysia.

Getting to Cherating: The best way to get there is by bus or hire car. You can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the state capital of Terengganu, a city on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the best places Malaysia if you love good food, friendly locals and an interesting range of low key attractions, and you’re looking for places to visit in East Malaysia.

It’s also the jumping off point for beautiful Redang Island (coming up next as it’s also a best place to visit Malaysia).

There is an interesting Chinatown to visit complete with street art, some great museums and some magnificent mosques. What really stood out to me when I visited this best destination in Malaysia, however, is the friendly locals. I have never felt so welcome anywhere in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuala Terengganu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur but it’s also a major bus hub.

Top Attraction to visit : Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque (or Floating Mosque)

Top place to stay:  Grand Puteri Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices.

Click here to see our full guide to Kuala Terengganu..

Redang Island

A list of the most beautiful places in Malaysia often includes Redang Island, and it’s easy to see why. This is most simply, the most beautiful place I have ever visited, and unsurprisingly Redang was my best trip in Malaysia of recent years. 

Redang Island is a mix of pleasant resorts and pristine, white sand beaches. It makes for the perfect relaxing getaway and best tourist place in Malaysia. Several of my memories of the best travel in Malaysia are from here.

The main beach is Pasir Panjang (or Long Beach) and, located on the east side of the island, it is one of the popular holiday places in Malaysia for those visiting the east of the country.

While there’s not a whole lot to see if you aren’t a nature lover nor is there a big nightlife scene like some other islands in Malaysia, this is a best place to travel in Malaysia for a calm stay and for cheap, beautiful and easy snorkeling. If you love islands and beaches, then Redang is definitely one of the best place to travel in Malaysia!

Getting to Redang Island: You can get there by plane or boat. Several flights leave daily from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

Top place to stay:  The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

An artificial lake located in Terengganu, Kenyir lake is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. This lesser known attraction in Malaysia has been developed as an ecotourism destination and the lake provides hydroelectric power to the region.

It’s also one of the top inland fishing destinations in Malaysia and a gateway to Taman Negara.

This interesting place in Malaysia has several attractions around the like the caves of Bewah and Taat as well as Anglers Heaven, jungle walks and waterfalls. Lake Kenyir Resort is also a pleasant place to stay.

To access the actual lake you’ll need to have a boat to access the lake which you can organise with a tour operator easily. A visit to this Malaysia travel place is the perfect way to see a different slice of Malaysia while enjoying nature.

Getting to Kenyir Lake: A 50 minute drive from Kuala Terengganu Airport. You can fly there from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

Top place to stay:  Lake Kenyir Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Perhentian Islands

Less explored than Langkawi, but rated by many as the best holiday destination in Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands offer serene beaches with crystal clear water.

These islands are a travel place in Malaysia that you won’t want to leave, and although there are no museums or culturally significant monuments, there are pristine beaches, crystal clear water and beautiful coral reefs at the appropriately named Coral Bay with sunsets that’ll linger in your memories for a while after you do have to go home.

This is the ultimate place to go snorkeling and scuba diving in Malaysia. You can also go jungle trekking and do activities like kayaking.

Although there’s not much else to do on the island, its natural environment shows the best of Malaysia and it’s one of my personal best places to travel in Malaysia.

Getting to Perhentian Islands : You will need to take a boat there. The main ferry terminal is in Kuala Besut. Instructions are here.

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

Top place to stay:  Perhentian Island Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

Kota Bharu is the state capital of Kelantan, a conservative city on the east coast of the mainland.

This one of the Malaysia cities to visit is relatively laid back with some interesting places to visit like Istana Jahar, a 19th century royal residence, Istana Balai Besar or Grand Palace, as well as other museums and mosques.

There’s also a vibrant night market and street art scene. While Kota Bharu may not make it to top of the list for the top place to visit in Malaysia, spending a few hours or a couple of days in Kota Bharu allows you to see laid back Malaysian life – without the tourists – and it’s a useful stop over if you’re heading to Kuala Besut for the Perhentian islands as well.

The one of the best cities to visit in Malaysia offers visitors a chance to experience a different pace of life and to see the cultural heart of Malaysia. As such, it’s one of the interesting places to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kota Bharu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there, but you can also get there by train, bus and car.

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

Top place to stay:  Hotel Perdana – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

Kuching, also known as Cat City, is a port city located on the island of Borneo. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sarawak, Borneo. The city is interesting yet still one of the more relaxing places to visit in Malaysia, so if you want to head to Borneo, why not give Kuching a try?

This charming city is abound with museums like the Sarawak Museum and Cat Museum (a must visit in Cat City!) and places of worship like Tua Pek Kong Temple.

It’s also located near some beautiful national parks like Bako National Park as well as Kubah National Park.

The range of activities to visit in the surrounds and the lovely riverfront area makes Kucking my pick for the best city to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuching: The best way to get to Kuching is to fly. Several budget airlines fly here.

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

Top place to stay:  Hilton Kuching – Click here to see the latest prices

Kota Kinabalu

A quiet destination in Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is a pretty city on our Malaysia tourist places list offering visitors several attractions and activities.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the top places to visit in Malaysia to go island hopping – but think relaxation, not partying. Gaya Island is one of the most popular, as well as Manukan which is one of the islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These islands great for jungle trekking and diving.

In town, you can climb to Signal Hill Observatory to soak in the city sites and do some shopping at the local markets.

The access to beautiful beaches as well as nature treks make Kota Kinabalu a top destination in Malaysia Borneo. If you’re looking for the best place Malaysia to stop over en route to trekking and jungle exploration, consider stopping off in Kota Kinabalu.

Getting to Kota Kinabalu: The easiest way to get to Kota Kinabalu is by flying.

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

Top place to stay:  Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Sandakan is a small option of where to go Malaysia with few attractions inside the town itself. However, it has huge historical significance from World War II. The Sandakan Memorial Park pays homage to this dark part of history.

The small museum and accompanying walk is dedicated to the prisoners of war from the Borneo Death Marches and commemorates those who lost their lives. This makes for a confronting memorial. While it’s not the most obvious of vacation places in Malaysia, it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in history or are visiting to see the graves and memorials here.

The city itself has plenty of cheap markets and places to eat, and is a gateway to other significant attractions like the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, one of Malaysia famous places. Here, you can get up close to rescued orangutans who are being rehabilitated. There’s also the Turtle Islands Park.

Getting to Sandakan: Located on Borneo, the quickest way to get there is to fly.

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

Top place to stay:  Sabah Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices

Looking for the easiest way to get around Malaysia to these great places? Find our long-distance taxi service here . It can take you door-to-door anywhere in peninsular Malaysia.

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!

We hope you found somewhere just right for you in this Malaysia tourism place list. Read more about other destinations in Malaysia or find the best time to visit Malaysia here or the best things to do here. Looking for places to visit in Malaysia in 2 – 4 days? Read our itineraries here  and find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia here.

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Wow, Very beautiful places I must visit this year. Love from Pakistan

It’s worth it!

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Singapore vs Malaysia: Which is Better To Visit In 2024?

Singapore and Malaysia are two incredible countries to visit in South East Asia.

But which one should you visit? Singapore vs Malaysia is one of the most difficult decisions to make when travelling. Choosing between the two is impossible.

Luckily for you, as a full-time traveller, I am here to provide a guide comparing these two beautiful countries to help you make your decision.

Singapore vs Malaysia: The Basics

As I said, this is a tricky decision and choosing between Singapore vs Malaysia is so tough. There is no obvious winner overall. So to help you make your decision, I have compared the two countries in a number of categories , starting with the basics which are Costs & Prices, Language & Culture, Weather and Food. 4 important things, right?

After assessing the pros and cons, I will declare a winner of each category!

Costs & prices, 🇸🇬 singapore.

Singapore is cheaper than most countries in the western world like the US and the UK, for example. But Singapore is the most expensive country to visit in Southeast Asia.

As the country and city are so modern, and a place known for their luxury lifestyle, it’s naturally more expensive than its surrounding countries.

That being said, backpacking Singapore is really popular, as it’s a common layover for those heading to Australia. So it is possible to visit Singapore on a budget.

Top Tip: Singapore uses Singapore Dollars. As of January 2024, $1 USD is equal to 1.33 SGD.

A typical daily budget in Singapore would be approximately $125 USD each day. Of course, if you are backpacking Southeast Asia , your daily budget will be a lot smaller, around $50.

🇲🇾 Malaysia

Malaysia is also a lot cheaper than most countries in the west. It’s more of a typical Southeast Asian country when it comes to your budget, and you can get things for incredibly cheap.

Although it might not be as cheap as Vietnam or Cambodia, it’s still a really cheap country to visit. You can expect prices similar to that of the Philippines.

Top Tip: Malaysia uses Malaysian Ringgit. As of January 2024, $1 USD is equal to 4.61 MYR.

You can get by in Malaysia with a daily budget of around $85 USD a day. Again, if you are backpacking, you can go as low as $35 a day. So cheap!

Below is a table comparing the prices in Singapore vs Malaysia of common expenses during a trip to either of these countries.

It’s worth noting that alcohol is heavily taxed in both of these countries, which is why it is so out of line with the rest of the prices.

But as you can see, while Singapore is definitely cheaper than most countries, Malaysia is significantly cheaper.

Winner – Costs & Prices: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Language & culture.

Singapore has a pretty unique culture as it has been influenced by Chinese, Malay, Indian and other ethnicities. But this is what makes Singapore so unique. It’s a mix of all different ethnicitie s, religions, and languages. I would compare Singapore to Dubai, to an extent.

Top Tip: The Official Language of Singapore is Malay, funnily enough.

The most popular religions in Singapore are Buddhism and atheism actually. Singapore is a really modern country with a huge mix of religions and beliefs, which has resulted in a large number of atheists compared to other Asian countries. I’m not saying atheism is correct or incorrect, but it’s definitely become a more common belief in modern years.

As shown above, the official language is Malay, but a huge percentage of the country speaks English too. Again, as the city is so modern and luxurious, English is actually the most common language in the heart of the city of Singapore.

Fun Fact: 37% of the people who live in Singapore weren’t born in Singapore.

3 fun facts about Singapore’s language and culture: –> The laws and fines are very strict. For example, you can’t chew chewing gum anywhere you want, you have to make sure you are in an appropriate area. –> Singapore is an incredibly clean and safe city. It’s one of the safest places in the world; honesty is a big part of Singaporean culture which keeps the city spotless and crime-free. –> The people of Singapore are very polite. The government actually teaches manners in the education system, making Singaporeans some of the most polite and welcoming people in the world.

Similar to Singapore, Malaysia is also a multi-cultural country with large populations of native Malays, Chinese, Indians and other nationalities. This makes Malaysia fascinating to visit as all the different religious groups retain their beliefs and all practise their religion slightly differently.

Malaysia’s official religion is Islam , unlike many surrounding countries which mainly practice Buddhism. Religion plays a bigger role in Malaysia than in Singapore, with 63.5% Islam, 18.7% Buddhist and 9.1% Christian according to the 2020 census.

Top Tip: The Official Language of Malaysia is Malay.

Malaysia will provide more of a culture shock than Singapore which is more westernised as it is a modern and luxurious place, and while this is true about parts of Malaysia like Kuala Lumpur, there are more opportunities to go off the beaten path and see the real Malaysia.

English is not quite as widely spoken in Malaysia as it is in Singapore. It is still widely spoken, with about 50-60% of people speaking English , but compare this to nearly everyone in Singapore and it’s a bit less.

3 fun facts about Malaysia’s language and culture: –> Malaysians don’t consider themself to be Malaysian. Most Malaysians instead identify with their family’s origin country. Most likely China or India. –> It’s disrespectful to wear shoes indoors –> Eating with your hands is just as common as using cutlery.

Personally, I don’t think it’s right to say one country’s culture is better than another’s. So I’m calling the cultural comparison between Singapore vs Malaysia a draw, as I did between Taiwan and Thailand . Of course, you can make a personal judgement on which sounds more appealing to you.

Winner – Language & Culture: Both 🇸🇬 🇲🇾

The weather in Singapore is pretty warm all year round, and pretty consistent all year round too. With sunny days and warm weather, you can be sure to get a bit of a tan during a trip to Singapore.

As a country with a tropical climate, the summers are very warm, lasting almost all year. That being said, there are monsoon seasons in Singapore . A monsoon season is when there is great rainfall. The Northeast monsoon is from December to March and the Southwest is from June to September.

But the monsoon seasons provide more bearable temperatures, and sometimes cheaper prices too. There’s never really a “best” or “bad” time to visit Singapore, the country has pretty good weather regardless of when you visit.

Malaysia has a similar annual consistency when it comes to weather. In fact, Malaysia is almost the same temperature all year round. This is due to it’s location near the equator/

There are 2 main seasons in Malaysia: the dry and rainy seasons. But despite the change in precipitation, there is very limited variation in temperatures.

As with Singapore, the rainy season from September to February can provide cheaper prices as there will be fewer tourists in the country, but the temperatures are more or less the same.

Below is a table showing the average temperatures for Singapore and Malaysia throughout the year.

Although the temperatures are close and Malaysia is more consistent, Singapore has higher temperatures and is known for its good weather.

Winner – Weather: Singapore 🇸🇬

As an international shipping port since the 1800s, Singapore’s cuisine has been heavily influenced by cultures from all around the worl d, on top of the countries in and around Southeast Asia.

Having a large number of ethnicities and religions in Singapore reflects the country’s cuisine too.

The cuisine is actually quite similar to that of China , meaning that most dishes aren’t as spicy as elsewhere in Asia.

Some traditional dishes you may wish to try on a trip to Singapore include:

• Bak chor mee: Minced meat noodles with flat egg noodles with vinegar, lard, soy sauce, chilli, pork liver slices, fishcake and minced pork.
• Nasi padang: A steamed rice dish served with meat and vegetables cooked in sauces and curries
• Laksa: A spicy noodle dish served with seafood

Malaysia’s cuisine is a lot spicier than Singapore’s. The cuisine is rich in herbs and spices, resulting in the increased spiciness.

It’s particularly similar to the cuisine of Thailand, sharing many of the key ingredients like the mentioned herbs and spices.

But despite the similarities, Malaysian cuisine is extremely unique. Street food is also a much bigger thing in Malaysia than in Singapore. So you can get some really authentic and delicious food for really cheap prices!

Some traditional dishes to try on a trip to Malaysia include:

• Nasi Lemak: Boiled rice with coconut milk, pandan leaves, sambal, peanuts and more.
• Assam Laksa: Very thick noodle soup with a lot of sauce
• Curry Mee: Noodle soup with all the toppings: bean sprouts, shrimp, fish, chicken and more

A very close decision and completely down to personal preference, but I’m going to give this one to Malaysia as the food is more unique and traditionally spicy.

Winner – Food: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Singapore: top 5 things to do.

When choosing between Singapore vs Malaysia, you’re going to want to know what each of the countries has to offer in terms of things to see, things to do and activities. So here are 5 of the best and must-do things in Singapore. Of course, there are endless amazing things, but these are just 5.

1. Explore the Gardens by the Bay

The most iconic thing to see in Singapore is without a doubt the Gardens by the Bay. As a city filled with greenery and not only skyscrapers, there are lots of opportunities for peaceful walks. No more so than through the Gardens by the Bay where you can see the famous light show at night.

2. Have fun at Universal Studios Singapore

There are 6 Universal Studios theme parks around the world, probably most famously in Orlando, but there is also one in Singapore where you can have a day of fun. With rides, shows and more attraction s, you’re guaranteed to have some movie-themed excitement on your trip to Universal Studios Singapore.

3. Attend the Singapore Grand Prix

Each September, Formula One comes to Singapore for the Singapore Grand Prix. The track is a street track which runs through the heart of Singapore and past some of the most iconic sights in the city. If you visit Singapore in September, you definitely need to head to Marina Bay Street with your ticket to watch the F1!

4. Visit Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo is one of the biggest and best zoos in the world. The zoo is complimented on its spacious and open enclosures providing a good life for the animals. There are also some really unique animals to see such as white tigers. There are also excellent shows put on throughout the day by the zookeepers and some animals.

5. Get a view over Singapore from the Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer offers one of the best views for any observation wheel in the world. In my opinion, it’s miles better than the London Eye. Any trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without a trip up the wheel to get a breathtaking view over Singapore where you can see all of the most popular sights.

Malaysia: Top 5 Things To Do

Continuing with our comparison of Malaysia vs Singapore, it’s time to consider what there is to do in Malaysia. Again, this can help to give you an understanding of what sort of things there are to do in each of the countries and find something that catches your eye.

1. Go up Menara Kuala Lumpur

One of the best things to do in Malaysia is to go up Menara Kuala Lumpur. It is the world’s 7th tallest tower and similar to the Singapore Flyer, offers dream-worthy views over the city of Kuala Lumpur. The prices are very reasonable, as we have learnt Malaysia is cheap, it costs about $7 for this unforgettable view.

2. See the Batu Caves

If you have seen photos of Malaysia before, you have likely seen photos of the Batu Caves and the iconic rainbow steps , and of course, the giant golden statue of Murugan. It’s an absolute must-do. Entrance is also free to the main temple/cave and the price for the other caves is like $2, bargain!

✅ Interested in touring Batu Caves? It’s one of the must-do things during a trip to Malaysia! Book a tour today by clicking here!

3. Walk along the Langkawi Sky Bridge

The longest curved and free-span bridge in the world is found in Malaysia, Langkawi Sky Bridge. It’s a unique experience being suspended high above the jungle, with panoramic views miles upon miles into the Malaysian landscape. There are also parts with a glass, see-through floor which makes it a somewhat thrilling experience too.

✅ Interested in going to the Langkawi Sky Bridge? You can get a trip in the cable car included with your tour! Book a tour today by clicking here!

4. See the Petronas Towers

Kuala Lumpur’s Twin Towers, the Petronas Towers, attract millions of visitors from all around the world to see the iconic part of the Kuala Lumpur skyline. Seeing the towers is pretty cool, but going up the towers is an unforgettable moment. You are able to buy tickets to go up the towers and get another indescribable view of the city.

✅ Interested in going up the Petronas Towers? You can get tickets for your trip by clicking here!

5. Get a photo with the bicycle street art in Penang

One of the most famous things to see in Penang is the “Little children on a Bicycle” mural. It’s in the Georgetown area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with lots of street art, but this is definitely one of the most famous. If anyone posts photos on Instagram from their time in Penang, I would bet that a picture of this mural is included.

Singapore vs Malaysia: Which Is Better For Travelling?

Choosing between Singapore vs Malaysia requires a deep dive into the nitty gritty specifics of what each country offers. 5 main things which you might consider are: hiking, beaches, nightlife, budget and popularity. So whether you arrive at Singapore or Kuala Lumpur International Airport, I’ve put Singapore and Malaysia up against each other in each category to see who comes out on top.

Which Has Better Hiking: Singapore vs Malaysia

As a city-state, Singapore doesn’t offer too many hiking opportunities. Singapore is also a very small country, it takes just over 30 minutes to drive from opposite sides.

Singapore is known as The Garden City – you will see this as soon as you arrive at the airport. So while there are lots of opportunities for walking through state-of-the-art botanical gardens in Singapore, there are few proper hiking options.

There are some though, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, for example, provides the opportunity to go for a hike during a trip to Singapore to the highest nature peak in the state (163 metres).

Malaysia, as a much larger country made up of cities and countryside and everything in between, offers a significantly larger number of hiking opportunities, as you might imagine.

In fact, there are over 3200 recognised hiking trails in Malaysia . So if you are an outdoor lover and an avid hiker, you’ll find lots of options on a trip to Malaysia.

Some of the most popular hikes in the country include:

• Mt Kinabalu, Sabah
• Gunung Tahan, Taman Negara National Park
• Penang Hill, George Town
• Bukit Beruang, Melaka

Comparing a city-state and a country with incredible landscapes and countryside, I think there’s only going to be one winner when it comes to hiking, so Malaysia comes out on top for this one.

Winner – Hiking: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Which has better beaches: singapore vs malaysia.

As Singapore is an island, you would imagine that there are plenty of great beaches. And you would be correct. Singapore is home to some really popular beaches.

The tropical climate creates perfect conditions for beach life , with beautiful palm trees, golden sand and peaceful blue water.

Palawan Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches I have ever seen, it’s the model beach. Take a look for yourself…

Some other popular beaches in Singapore include:

• Changi Beach
• Tanjong Beach
• Pasir Ris Beach

Malaysia has just under 4000 kilometres of coastline along with 878 islands . Of course, this results in some picture-perfect beaches.

Like Singapore, Malaysia’s tropical climate creates ideal beach conditions. Who wants to be on the beach in the rain after all?

Some of Malaysia’s most popular beaches include Kapalai Island Beach, Pantai Cahaya Bulan and Batu Ferringhi. But for me, the best beaches in Malaysia are found on the Perhentian Islands.

As a protected area for marine life, the beaches here are spotless and offer some really nice beaches to relax and unwind, as well as explore the exotic marine life by snorkelling.

It’s really tough to choose between Singapore and Malaysia. There are some really quality beaches in each country. But there are more beaches in Malaysia as it’s a bigger country, so I guess this one goes to Malaysia once again.

Winner – Beaches: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Which has better nightlife: singapore vs malaysia.

Singapore has an extraordinary nightlife. The city never sleeps! There is an abundance of world-class bars and clubs where you can drink and dance the night away. The Singaporeans know how to party, that’s for sure.

Top Tip: The legal drinking age in Singapore is 18.

One thing that’s worth noting is the high price of alcohol as discussed earlier. Due to the high tax, your night out in Singapore can get pretty expensive quite quickly. So just remember to be sensible at all times.

Another thing worth noting is that public drinking is illegal in Singapore between 1:30 pm and 7 am. Of course, you are allowed to drink it in registered places like bars and clubs.

Singapore’s nightlife is 10/10 and up there with Bangkok and even Vegas!

Like most countries in Southeast Asia, the nightlife in Malaysia is also very good.

Any of the big cities or even some of the less popular places have a good number of options when it comes to clubs, bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a night out.

Top Tip: The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21 as of 2017.

The street markets and stalls also make for a great night out where you can get really cheap food and drinks.

Again, as with Singapore, alcohol is highly taxed so make sure to keep track of how much you are spending.

Although nightlife in Malaysia is good, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, the nightlife in Singapore is next-level, so Singapore wins the Singapore vs Malaysia nightlife category.

Winner – Nightlife: Singapore 🇸🇬

Which destination is better on a budget.

This category is pretty similar to the costs category as it comes down to the price of things. But how easy are the two countries to do on a budget? Is it easy to find cheap accommodation, hostels etc.?

Singapore is definitely doable on a budget. You just have to be savvy about your budget throughout your trip.

It’s possible to find hostels for cheap (I recommend using Hostelworld ) and you can get them at the cheapest price if you book months in advance.

Food can be harder to find cheaply in Singapore as there aren’t as many street food markets as in Malaysia or other Asian countries.

But at the end of the day, you are only going to be spending a few days in Singapore , it’s not a place where you spend months and months, so you could “do” Singapore for a few hundred dollars, for sure.

Malaysia is extremely easy to visit on a tight budget. Although backpacking Malaysia isn’t as popular as backpacking Vietnam or backpacking Thailand , it’s rising in popularity and backpackers are beginning to realise how cheaply Malaysia can be explored.

Hostels are really easy to find, they’re a lot more common throughout Malaysia than in Singapore, Singapore’s hostels are also more expensive as they’re more modern and luxurious to fit in with the rest of the city.

And as stated throughout this article, street food is a big part of the culture in Malaysia so it’s super easy to find cheap but tasty food.

For this one, Malaysia is definitely easier to do on a budget.

Winner – Budget: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Which is better for avoiding tourists.

Personally, I would have thought that more people visit Singapore than Malaysia. Singapore is a popular layover when going from Europe to Australia, or vice versa, and many people choose to spend a few days there to adjust to the timezone.

It’s also appealing as you can see most of the main sights in just a few days.

But the statistics say otherwise. In 2019 (using stats from pre-COVID), 26.10 million people visited Malaysia . Whereas, fewer people, 19.12 million to be exact, visited Singapore in 2019.

There’s an argument to make that the density of tourists would be higher in Singapore as everyone is visiting the city, whereas tourists are visiting a number of different places across Malaysia.

But I’ll take the statistics for face value and declare that Singapore is better for avoiding tourists as few people visit the country on a yearly basis.

Winner – Avoiding Tourists: Singapore 🇸🇬

Singapore vs malaysia: faq.

Below are a number of questions related to Singapore vs Malaysia along with my answers.

It’s not right to say one country is “better” than another country. There are so many factors that affect someone’s opinion of a country. For example, if you love a night out, Singapore is better. If you love hiking, Malaysia is better. It depends on what you are interested in.

Singapore is different from Malaysia in many ways. Firstly, it’s a state-city so there is only Singapore whereas Malaysia is a country that has cities and towns across the city. Another main difference is the landscape, Singapore is all city (though has a lot of gardens) whereas Malaysia has jungles and countryside.

Yes, the official language of both Singapore and Malaysia is Malay. Both countries also have a large majority of their population who speak English.

Singapore and Malaysia are in Southeast Asia, which on a world map is easily identifiable as the islands north of Australia. Above Indonesia are Singapore and Malaysia.

Final Thoughts: Singapore vs Malaysia

And there you have it, a complete guide and comparison of Singapore vs Malaysia.

Winner – Overall: Malaysia 🇲🇾

Overall, Malaysia “wins” 6-4, so it was a pretty close comparison.

I encourage you to take these results with a pinch of salt , though. This is based entirely on my opinion, and even though the results say so, I wouldn’t say Malaysia is “better” than Singapore.

Both countries offer something different. So use this comparison to see what you want to get from each country. Are you looking for somewhere with good weather and nightlife? Singapore is for you. Are you looking for somewhere with good hiking and is cheap? Malaysia is for you.

It’s completely personal preference and comes down to what you want from your trip.

Hopefully, this comparison has laid everything out clearly and made it easy for you to make your decision between Singapore vs Malaysia.

Whichever country you choose, you are guaranteed to have the trip of a lifetime! 🙂

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

10 Islamic Landmarks to Visit in 2023

I slamic Heritage sites are distributed all over the world, even in the most unexpected places. Traveling and visiting the world's best Islamic landmarks can introduce you to the tenets of Islam through learning about Islam's history and heritage as well as immersing yourself in architectural masterpieces. 

Here is a list of 10 Islamic World Heritage Sites to visit in 2023:

Sheikh zayed grand mosque, uae.

Located in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the country and one of the largest mosques in the world. It features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-karat gold chandeliers, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. The mosque is big enough to accommodate over 40,000 visitors as the complex covers over 22,400 square meters.

Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar

The Museum of Islamic Art on one end of the seven-kilometer-long Corniche in Doha is focused on art from the Arab world. It houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Islamic art in the world from three continents created over 1,400 years.

Dome of the Rock, Palestine

Located on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem, a site also known to Muslims as the Al-Aqsa Compound, the Dome of the Rock was built between 685 and 692 AD by Abd al-Malik. It marks a period in Islamic history when the message was in its youth. It is revered by most Muslims as the spot where Isra and Miraj took place.

Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, Egypt

Muhammad Ali Mosque is situated on the summit of the Citadel of Cairo and was commissioned by the ruler of Egypt Muhammad Ali Pasha between 1830 and 1848 AD to be a place of worship and his resting place. This Ottoman mosque is the largest to be built in the first half of the 19th century.

Hassan II Mosque, Morocco

Hassan II Mosque is the largest mosque in Morocco and stands majestically in the largest city of Morocco, Casablanca. It has been a point of interest for many visitors and is known to be home to the tallest minaret in the world. Sitting on the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean, the mosque overlooks the sea majestically.

Hagia Sophia, Turkey

Hagia Sophia is a major historical monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Istanbul. It stands out as one of the greatest testaments to the power of the Ottoman Empire. Originally built to serve as a cathedral by the Greek Orthodox church in 360 AD, the Hagia Sophia was later converted into a mosque, then a museum, and then in 2020, the Turkish government decided it was time to pray again in Hagia Sophia for the first time in 86 years.  

Alhambra Palace, Spain

Considered by some as the eighth wonder of the world, the Alhambra Palace is a representation of one of the finest pieces of Islamic art and architecture. As well as being Spain's most visited historical attraction, attracting two million visitors each year, many of which are Muslims. It marks an important period in Islamic history, the Golden Age of Islam, when the southern part of Europe was under Islamic dominion; it's known as Andalusia. 

Jama Masjid, India 

Known as the largest mosque in India, the imposing Jama Masjid of Delhi boasts a courtyard that can accommodate up to 25,000 visitors. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan who built the Taj Mahal, and inaugurated by its first Imam, Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari. The mosque's construction began in 1644 and completed by 1656 AD. It was the primary mosque for the city's sizeable Muslim population as well as the Mughal emperors until the mid-19th century. 

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia 

Located in Kuala Lumpur and officially opened in 1998, the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is regarded as the largest museum of Islamic art in Southeast Asia and gives visitors an insight into Islam through its global collection of Islamic Art. The museum showcases early copies of the Qur'an and Hadith books.

Kampong Gelam, Singapore

Kampong Gelam is one of Singapore's oldest districts. It was known as the Muslim quarter as it was also home to the Sultan of Johore and was thriving with a huge community of Muslim traders. The imposing Sultan Mosque, known as Singapore's biggest mosque, is a constant reminder of the district's history. The mosque was built in 1824 AD by Sultan Hussein Shah. 

This article was posted on UAEMoments

8 of the best places to visit in Singapore

Apr 16, 2024 • 12 min read

From art to the astonishing architecture, here are the places that should be on every Singapore itinerary © Sean3810 / Getty Images

Singapore's allure goes beyond its iconic hotels, manicured gardens and world-class airport. A maturing local identity peeks through if you know where to look.

At first glance, the city isn't really known for range when it comes to travel, especially with its headliners clinching superlatives at every turn. Attractions like the Marina Bay Sands , Gardens by the Bay  and Jewel Changi Airport  suggest that the city-state has little beyond manmade sights to offer, but ask any local and they'll be happy to point out that there's life beyond Crazy Rich Asians.

To know Singapore more intimately, venture beyond its famous showcase to the various neighborhoods around the island. From a red light district that doubles as an excellent food hub, to a tranquil reservoir hiding the world's first nocturnal zoo, here are the best places to visit in Singapore to discover its alternative charms.

1. Pulau Ubin

A rural island holding fast to the 1960s

Off the eastern shores of Singapore is Pulau Ubin , a tiny island where many locals consider to be the last vestige of kampong (village) life. More than just a description of a gathering of makeshift houses made of zinc sheets and wood, the term represents a simpler time when the communal spirit was strong. Thus, it became a destination for Singaporeans to visit for some authentic nostalgia. 

While small, the best way to explore the island is by bicycle – a fact evident by the many rental shops near the jetty entrance. If you have limited time, take the eastern trail as it leads to the island's most famous sight,  Chek Jawa wetlands . Walk the extensive boardwalk to spot mudskippers and fiddler crabs, or come during low tide to see carpet anemones, ribbon seagrass and the occasional horseshoe crab. At the end of the walk, climb up Jejawi Tower for panoramic views of the area.

As one of the few sites for granite mining in the early days, the western trail features three water-filled quarries that look spectacular on a sunny day. Cycle first to Petai Quarry and pop by Butterfly Hill to see a small knoll decorated with plants that draw the fluttering creatures. Further along, you'll come by Puaka Hill. It's an easy 15-minute hike up to the highest viewpoint on the island, which offers stunning views of Ubin Quarry from the top. Consider dropping by Wei Tuo Fa Gong Temple nearby, a temple from the 1950s with colorful prayer flags over a pond. 

Return to the main village and have a meal at one of the humble eateries there. Enjoy the rustic atmosphere as well as an impressive example of a wayang stage for traditional theatrical performances, now rarely seen on the main island. 

Planning tip: Take a one-way ferry ride to the island from Changi Point Ferry Terminal for just $4 a person. The independent operators will wait to fill the boat of 12 before leaving, so waiting times may vary from a few minutes to 20 minutes. Insect repellant is heavily advised. 

The red-light district that's also a popular supper spot

Since it's a place that's often seen as sanitized, the fact that there are legalized brothels in Singapore may be a surprise to some. Limited to the even-numbered lorongs (lanes) branching out from Geylang Road, one can identify them by their open gates and their red numbered signs or crimson hanging lanterns at the door. However, for many locals, the star attraction here is really the unpretentious food scene, especially after dark.

It's all a very logical evolution of course. Customers visited in the wee hours and neighboring businesses adjusted their hours for the clientele. As more night owls gravitated there for supper, Geylang became a 24/7 food haven. An early example is Yong He Eating House , a Taiwanese joint most famous for their fried fritters and smooth beancurd. It's also one of the few places you can try a salty variety of the latter, made savory with minced meat, preserved vegetables, spring onions and dried shrimp. Further down the road, Eminent Frog Porridge has earned itself a mention in the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide with their claypot delicacy, but there are other stir-fry dishes for those not into the creatures. Charcoal-cooked dishes are popular too, with stunning examples of seafood noodles fried in a wok at Swee Guan Hokkien Mee and the oven-roasted char siew pork slivers in Koung’s Wanton Mee . For a sharing platter, Mongkok Dim Sum serves up all sorts of steaming treats in small baskets throughout the day. There's even a string of vendors selling that most polarizing of fruits, the durian.

Local tip: Safety is not an issue despite the repute, and the brothel operators mainly keep to themselves. If you do venture into their lanes, do not gawk and refrain from taking pictures and videos. Instead, if you wish to better learn about the history of the area, the independent Geylang Adventures will assure one of a vivid and respectful trail.

A photogenic Peranakan enclave with tasty adventures

An ethnic group that emerged from early Chinese settlers marrying with Malay and Indonesian communities in Southeast Asia, the Peranakans bear out this fused heritage in an attractive and vibrant way. Other than visiting the museum at Armenian Street , one can visit Katong to experience their architecture and food.

The most photogenic stretch can be found at Koon Send Road, where a line of multi-colored pastel terrace houses are a perfect backdrop. As you make your way down Joo Chiat Road towards East Coast Road, you'll notice numerous food options, ranging from local Bak Kut Teh (pork rib soup) to trendy cafes. You'll also come by Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen , a great option for some authentic cuisine. As you move towards East Coast Road, try to spot one of the many eye-catching murals tucked in the alleys.

The main stretch holds more food offerings, but visit Peranakan Inn & Lounge for homey classics like Ayam (chicken) with Buah Keluak – a savory and painstaking dish made special by the earthy nuts. Baba Chews is a more commercial counterpart located below Hotel Indigo. Across the road, the glutinous rice dumplings at Kim Choo Kueh Chang are hot commodities, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival. While you're there, popular food choices include Katong Laksa  – which serves a creamy curry noodle dish – and Birds of Paradise , a local gelato maker known for their botanical flavors. 

As the area is not as accessible via the local subway system, make the most of your outing with a visit to the nearby East Coast Park,  Singapore's largest example of the coastal ecosystem. Then visit East Coast Lagoon Food Village to sample the tasty hawker fare.

4. Tanjong Pagar

A different creature by day and night

With its proximity to the Central Business District (CBD), Tanjong Pagar is a hotbed of suits seeking out hawker nosh at Amoy and Maxwell Food Centers, or their afternoon cuppa at chic cafes. This juxtaposition between modern and traditional can also be seen in its architecture, especially in Chinatown and along Amoy Street and Telok Ayer Street, where heritage shophouses sit next to towering blocks. Interestingly, this is also where one can find Singapore's multi-religious society represented along one road. Make your way to the South Bridge Road end of Pagoda Street and you'll find yourself between two 19th century places of worship,  Masjid Jamae and Sri Mariamman Temple. Move further south of the main road and you'll come by the impressive Buddha Tooth Relic Temple , with Fairfield Methodist Church just across the junction.

When the sun sets, the area goes from bustling to bar-centric, and here you'll find some of the world's best watering holes. In fact, two of the three Singaporean bars that have made it to the World's 50 Best list call this area home. Jigger & Pony is a more polished affair residing in Amara Hotel – an excellent place for an espresso martini. Sago House has a more convivial atmosphere in a compact space, along with a smaller menu that rotates regularly. For other tipple explorations, try Live Twice and Oriental Elixir .

Tanjong Pagar also hosts the island's only LGBTQ+ nightlife businesses. While not legally recognized, the community enjoys relative freedom at these establishments. Taboo and Tantric Bar are local institutions, while newer joints prefer more provocative names such as Sausage Market and Neil's Conversion Clinic .

A natural sanctuary with world-class facilities

The Singapore Zoo consistently places itself as one of the world's best animal parks and a must visit when visiting the country, thanks to its naturalistic habitats that cater to the wildlife. Always innovating, the teams behind the zoo created  Night Safari Park  in 1994, the world's first nocturnal zoo exhibit, and later on in 2014, River Wonders  – the first and only river-themed version in Asia. This was most recently joined by Bird Paradise in 2023, showcasing an astonishing variety of birds such as hornbills, flamingos and even penguins, set against various Asian backdrops like rice terraces and bamboo groves.

Less talked about is the nearby Upper Seletar Reservoir. Situated in the Central Catchment Reserve, it is a peaceful escape from the urban areas and also a great spot to catch a tree lined sunset. With such a scenic potential, the area is also slated for a new attraction in 2024,  Rainforest Park ; highlights will include a 250m suspension bridge and a canopy walk 11m above the ground.

Planning tip: Private hire is the most convenient transport option, and the journey will take about 30 minutes from the city. For public transport, take the MRT subway to Ang Mo Kio Station and transfer to bus 138. You can also drop off midway to visit the reservoir. Or, head further north to Khatib MRT and opt for the $2 park shuttle ride. Because Bird Paradise is slightly apart from the other zoo parks, it is best to visit it first and take the free shuttle to the other segments and finish with Night Safari Park.

6. Tiong Bahru

A residential relic which experienced a renaissance

Singapore's public housing scheme first took root in Tiong Bahru in the 1930s, which is why the designs here differ so greatly from today's soaring blocks. Rather than focusing on living density, the four-story buildings are comfortably spaced apart, making it an easy stroll for visitors. The architecture is a highlight here: quiet art deco with soft curves infused with Straits elements, like corridors reminiscent of five-foot ways, spiral staircases and light wells. Spot the green tinted glass used to shield residents from the harshest sun in certain areas.

For the most representative take, make your way to block 55 at the junction of Tiong Bahru Road and Tiong Poh Road to admire the architectural highlights of these rare pre-war buildings. When the area was slated for conservation, this drew the attention of the local creative community, and many have quietly made their homes or businesses here. You'll see this new millennial revival as you expand your walk, spotting intermittent options for quaint cafes, crafty retail stores and delicious hawker fare. Tiong Bahru Bakery , opened by Frenchman Gontran Cherrier, has become a stalwart fix for croissants, while Micro Bread & Co and Flock Cafe are great local alternatives for baked goods. Cat Socrates has delightful stationary and souvenirs to take home, and Nana & Bird is a well-established spot for chic women's clothing.

Don't forget to visit Tiong Bahru Market for a true local experience. The first level houses daily sundry, fresh flowers and other necessities, while the second story is a well-regarded hawker center. Take your pick from piping hot umami prawn noodles, freshly-steamed buns and even a Michelin Bib Gourmand chicken rice stall. Finish off your exploration at Nimble/Knead and have your weary body spiffed up at this unique spa housed in shipping containers.

7. Bugis and Kampong Glam

A thriving shopping area with Malay cultural attractions

Kampong Glam has emerged as one of the best places to visit in Singapore, largely thanks to its star attraction, Haji Lane. The bohemian street is as unbridled as it gets on the island, with energetic murals crawling up shophouses selling everything from clothing to trinkets. Make your way to the end at Beach Road (where the coastline used to be before reclamation happened) to experience a Mexican meal underneath a massive Aztec art piece at Piedra Niegra , or join the locals having some soupy prawn noodles at Blanco Court or Hainanese pork chop at Prince Coffee House.

There's plenty to see past the revelry at the lane. As you make your way towards Sultan Mosque , you'll notice Arab Street specializes in classic Middle-Eastern trade items like fabrics and rugs – much like in Singapore's early years. As you reach Bussorah Street, admire the golden domes of the mosque down a line of shophouses before popping by Jamal Kazura Aromatics for some heady traditional perfumes. Neighboring hole-in-the-wall Bhai Sarbat continues to pour out some of the best teh tarik (frothy milk tea) anywhere on the island. The nearby Malay Heritage Centre is undergoing some renovations, but the grounds are pretty to walk through given its original use as a former Istana (palace). Other worthy mentions include the dramatic Vintage Cameras Museum shaped like an actual Rollei, and Golden Landmark Shopping Center with its humble shops and startlingly beautiful glass elevators.

The larger neighborhood of Bugis is also an enjoyable slice of Singapore, boasting a more street market-style approach. Walk up to Albert Street and you'll be sandwiched between Albert Center with tons of hawker options and Fu Lu Shou Complex, which offers affordable massages. To the west stand two favored religious venues:  Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple , one of the busiest Chinese temple in Singapore, and beautifully decorated Sri Krishnan Temple.

Local tip: Bugis is also one of the best places to stay when visiting Singapore. Not only is it well-connected with four out of the six MRT subway lines within easy walking distance, but it contains surprisingly affordable accommodation options for such a central location, including independent operators and global brands like ibis and Mercure hotels.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated April 2024

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Tips & Advice

Apr 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Explore Indonesia’s diverse culinary landscape across the world's largest island nation, from satay to the globally renowned beef rendang.

Apr 18, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 6, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 9, 2024 • 12 min read

Feb 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 27, 2024 • 17 min read