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Singapore to Malaysia road trip: the most complete guide

Last Updated on 19/05/2023 by Clotilde Passalacqua

Are you visiting Singapore and considering extending your time to explore Malaysia, its neighbouring country? Nothing is easier than organising a Singapore to Malaysia road trip. Whether you travel with family, alone, or with friends, this is a trip that will fill everybody with memories.

There are several options to organise a trip to Singapore and Malaysia, there are good bus connections between the two countries, and then using buses and taxis you can reach the major sites in Malaysia. However, the freedom and flexibility you get by driving in Malaysia are unbeatable. You will be able to easily reach less known attractions, take your time, and not be forced into a schedule.

On top of the bus and car options, you can also join tours. Malaysians seem to love tour packages, but be aware that you may feel like on a school trip. We partially experienced this on the east coast (more below) and it wasn’t our cup of tea!

Driving in Malaysia is also a breeze, the main roads are in perfect condition, the rest are generally good, and traffic, in general, seems quite light. In this post we will look at:

• Considerations to define your road trip to Malaysia itinerary based on time available and season
• Practicalities to organise your Singapore to Malaysia road trip
• Best itinerary to mix cultural stops and time to unwind

Just to put this trip into context: we travelled as a family of 4 (with our 6 year old twin boys). In 2022 the borders were open but there were few foreign tourists in Malaysia, with more in Singapore.

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through the links on this page, at no cost to you .

CONSIDERATIONS FOR A ROAD TRIP TO MALAYSIA FROM SINGAPORE

When you are starting to prepare for your Singapore to Malaysia road trip there are two important things to consider:

• the time that you have available and
• the time of the year of your trip, as Malaysia is affected by the Monsoon season.

Time available for a road trip in Malaysia and Singapore

Singapore is a really small country (city-state) but packed with tons of things to see and experience. Many people will tell you that a couple of days are enough in Singapore. Whilst this is true in the sense that in a couple of days you could gain an overview of the city, however, you could easily spend 5-7 days there if you enjoy exploring the museums and taking part in tours.

If you are tight for time then planning 3 days in Singapore is a good compromise.

Malaysia on the other hand is a big country with many things to explore throughout. In this article, we will focus on peninsular Malaysia and leave exploring Borneo to another time. I would recommend planning at least 12 days in the country

Time of the year: different itineraries for different seasons

• During the monsoon season from November to January you will get a bit more rain, but tropical rain is not uncommon during the rest of the year too.
• May to October From, roughly, May to October the monsoon presides over the west coast which sees rain most days even if sometimes just for a couple of hours in the afternoon. At the same time, the east coast is sunny and it is the perfect time to visit beautiful tropical islands like Tioman, Pulau Redang, or the Pulau Perhentian.
• November to March From November to March the monsoon is on the east coast. During heavy rain, the connection with the islands could be disrupted and resorts and hotels on the smaller island usually close during this period. While you can still include a visit to the east coast, if you want to soak up the sun you will want to dedicate more time to islands like Penang and Langkawi.

The itinerary you will see below is perfect for the Summer months. Of course you can do it whenever you want but at the end I will suggest another option if you travel in Winter.

PRACTICALITIES OF YOUR SINGAPORE TO MALAYSIA ROAD TRIP

There are a couple of things to check and consider when planning your Singapore to Malaysia road trip. First of all, make sure you are up to date with both countries’ entry requirements.

Check if you need a Visa to enter Singapore or Malaysia. Many countries can access Singapore with their free e-visa program (for tourism purposes), and Malaysia asks for a visa only from a few countries if you visit for tourism purposes for less than 90 days, but these things can change quickly and unexpectedly.

• The official website for Singapore: www.ica.gov.sg
• The official website for Malaysia: www.malaysia.gov.my

The same advice is valid for Covid 19 vaccine requirements. At the moment borders in both countries are open to everybody regardless of vaccination status, but again these things could change really quickly.

Driving license

To drive a car, you will not need special documents if your license is in English. In case your driving license is not in English you will need to provide an official translation, or you will need an international driving permit. Together with your driving licence, you need to provide your passport. Then you will be ready to go.

Touch and go card

This is a simple rechargeable card you can buy in any 7/11, that is used to pay the motorway tolls. If like us you forget to get one you will still be able to pay cash, but in most cases, you will need to buzz someone to special come and take the payment as everything seems to be automated and it’s a proper pain! So try to get one as soon as possible! It is a really useful card, we did use it also in KL to pay for some parking where it was one of the few accepted methods of payment!

Where to start your journey

You will have two options regarding where to start your journey and where to rent a car for your road trip. I’m assuming that you will arrive in Singapore. You can pick up a car directly at the airport but be prepared for a shock when you check the rental price. I checked quotations on different websites, at different times of the year and the results were always sky high.

However, there is an easy solution to this. You can spend your time in Singapore (where anyway you wouldn’t need a car), and then you can cross the border and pick up your car in Johor Bahru. This is a really simple process and the car rental will cost you a quarter of the price you see in Singapore. Even if you leave the car in another city (as I recommend in the itinerary below) you will still save lots of money.

Car Rental Net is our option every time we have to collect a car out of hours or return it to a different place because they include all fees meaning no nasty surprises!

Check here for the best price to rent a car in Malaysia

Cross the border between Singapore and Malaysia

To cross the land border between Singapore and Malaysia, you have two choices: you can cross the Johor–Singapore Causeway or the Second Link. Following there is a summary of your best options, but you can read a detailed article on how to cross the border from Singapore to Malaysia here.

If you decide to cross the border with a rented car (assuming you picked it up in Singapore) you need to check that you are allowed, and you will be responsible to get the VEP (vehicle entry permit)

If you decide to rent a car just across the border in Johor you can use a bus or train to cross the border at the Johor–Singapore Causeway.

• To cross the border with the bus you need to arrive at Marsiling (on the red line), from there catch bus 950 or 170 (there are also others, it is worth checking with the drivers) to the Woodland Checkpoint, then after clearing Singaporean immigration you will board again the bus and cross to Malaysia and clear immigration there too. You can also take a bus 170X from Kranji (on the red line).
• To cross the border with the train you need to arrive at Marsiling (on the red line), and from there catch bus 950 or 170 (there are also others, it is worth checking with the drivers) to the Woodland Train Checkpoint. Once at Woodland Checkpoint, you will clear both immigration controls before boarding the train and after the 5-minute journey, you arrive and simply exit the station.

The train is a really practical option, but if you are planning to travel during peak dates you will need to reserve your ticket far in advance. We used this option and it worked perfectly for us. You can buy the ticket here .

The bus is also ok, but you will need to clear immigration in two steps, and it could be more time-consuming.

Once you are on the other side of the border you can easily get a taxi to your rental place. Make sure to pick a downtown office and not the airport location.

• Of course, if money is not a concern you can also decide to cross the border with an authorised taxi!

SINGAPORE TO MALAYSIA ROAD TRIP JOURNEY

This road trip around Malaysia is based on 15 nights. You can squeeze it into 14 nights, but it would be difficult to shorten it more. However, I will make some suggestions at the end.

As I mentioned before, spending 3 days in Singapore will give you a good overview of the country , but feel free to add an extra day if you have more time available.

Malaysia is perhaps an underrated country but when you start to look deeper there are millions of beautiful and interesting places to see. It could become an overwhelming job to select what to include in your itinerary (it was for me), but here you have got a tested road trip that works really well and combines cultural interests with stops where to take a break and unwind, as well as water activities to get the best out of your time in Malaysia.

Of course, it also leaves out many things, but at the end, I will mention 2 easy swaps you could consider.

Day 1 – 4 Singapore 3 nights

• WHERE TO STAY: Singapore offers an impressive number of accommodations, unfortunately, unlikely other Asian destinations it is challenging to find reasonable budget hotels/Airbnb. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Orchard city centre and while it was ok, it was still quite priced. However, the location was really good to reach easily everything by bus or underground. Overall I would stay again.

As Said before Singapore is quite small but packed with interesting things to see. In three days you will have a good overview but it is impossible to see everything. In this itinerary, Sentosa island is not included. We travelled with kids, but this time we didn’t want to invest a full day between parks, we preferred to focus on discovering the city.

The first day could be a little shorter as you maybe arrive mid-morning. Take it easy, if you arrive at the hotel before check-in time, drop the bag and go for lunch. Then explore little India and go back to your hotel for a rest or a refreshing splash in the swimming pool. After resting walk along the Clarke Quay till you reach the Merlion and then move in front of the Marina Sand bay to watch Spectra a night light show. For dinner enjoy something a little different at Violet kitchen a restaurant hidden in the National Gallery. (book in advance)

On the morning of the second day explore Chinatown and for lunch, queue to taste some delicious food at the first stall awarded a Michelin star in the Chinatown complex (Hawker Chan). After lunch move to the bay and explore Garden by the Bay. Book the entrance in advance to avoid queuing and disappointment because it could be sold out. It will take all afternoon, but it really worth it. For dinner, you can stop at Satay by the bay.

On the third day, you can decide to visit one of the many interesting museums, or I would recommend a visit to the terrific botanic gardens . In the afternoon you can shop until you drop in Orchard street.

On the morning of the fourth day make your way to cross the border and pick up your rental car to start exploring Malaysia.

Day 4-5 Malacca 1 night

• DRIVING TIME: 2h 30
• Rucksack Caratel for a budget solution really close to the centre.
• Rosa Malacca for a stylish new hotel, with big rooms (we stayed here, but next time I would try the Rucksack hotel)

Driving to Malacca from Johor Bahru takes around two hours and a half so you can be there by lunchtime if you get up early. Malacca is not a big city, but there are many things to see.

On the first day after lunch take a stroll along the river and then walk around the old town to see A Famosa, Malacca sultanate, the charming St. Paul hill, and the area around Christ Church. At sunset take the boat that is near the Maritime Museum and enjoy the view from the river of the old buildings that start to light up. If you are there over Friday, Saturday or Sunday do not miss going to Jonker night market. The market takes over, the street is closed to traffic, and you can taste delicious street food.

On the second day go back to the area around Jonker street and visit some of the temples, a mosque, and shop in the traditional artisanal shops. If you are too tired to keep walking then take the car and reach Kampung Morten, a small preserved village along the river where there are around 50 traditional houses, including Villa Sentosa that you should be able to visit. (Unfortunately, it was closed when we went there but I understand it is quite interesting)

Around lunchtime is time to move to Kuala Lumpur

Day 5-7 Kuala Lumpur 2 nights

• DRIVING TIME: 2h
• Aloft hotel is in a great location and the hotel has a really fun and inviting vibe. The rooms are not big but have everything you need and there is a great rooftop pool with a bar for a medium price. There are different eating options and breakfast is superb!
• DRIVING TIME: 2h.

Driving from Malacca to Kuala Lumpur takes a couple of hours. Driving in the city was easy and we found parking easily wherever we went. There are a lot of underground parking lots around the city which makes it practical to go around with a car (Some parking don’t accept credit cards but only touch’n-go cards).

We stayed at the beautiful hotel Aloft beside the central station where the parking charge was reduced for guests. The parking entrance is just beside the main entrance on the left when looking at it, but it could be confusing. When you arrive drive in front of the hotel and ask the hotel staff that are usually outside to point you in the right direction)

On the first day after dropping off your stuff at the hotel, make your way to the Petronas twin towers. Make sure you buy your ticket in advance, it is highly unlikely otherwise that you will find space on the same day. The tour is organised and it lasts around 1 hour in total.

PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS FLEXIBLE TICKETS – IMPORTANT TO KNOW

The tickets you buy on the official Petronas twin towers website are the cheapest and they include what third-party websites call “skip the line” as you have to choose the entrance time. They are the same they just don’t promote it as skip-the-line tickets.

However, there is still a good reason to pay that extra £2-3. It is the possibility to cancel your ticket for a full refund up to 24h before. You will not have this option with the ticket you buy on the official website.

Then walk around the KLCC park or explore the immense shopping mall just below them and at 8 pm don’t miss the Symphony Light and sound show by the esplanade in front of the towers. If it is summer wait till dark to see the Petronas towers beautifully lit, then move to Jalan Alor for an incredible street food market experience.

Start early on the second day and beat the heat while visiting Kuala Lumpur Forest Eco Park (a little overpriced, but really engaging for kids). Parking is available just near the entrance. Then drive a little bit out of the city to see the majestic Batu caves and when you come back explore the intriguing Chinatown.

If you stay at the Aloft Hotel you can take the opportunity to relax by the rooftop pool with a drink. On the morning of the third day you want to leave around 10-10:30 for the next stop

Day 7- 8 Kuantan 1 night

• DRIVING TIME: 2h and 30 min
• WHERE TO STAY : Mangala Resort and Spa is a wonderful place where once you enter you will not want to leave. It is an all-villas resort, some over the lake water and some big enough for numerous families. A small gym, a lovely spa, a good restaurant and a peaceful infinity pool are part of it.

You will stop a little earlier than Kuantan because I really recommend you to not miss staying at the astonishing Mangala resort just out of town. Here you are coming to be in touch with nature and to relax. The Mangala resort is a little haven, maybe because when we went it was really quiet but we loved the peace and serenity of the lake, the big window that opened to a veranda directly on the water.

You can spend all afternoon here . The food is lovely and you can also have something to eat by the pool. The resort has been built on an abandoned mining land, you can take some time to walk around and explore nature and spot some of the hundreds of types of birds that found a home here in this new paradise. A beautiful Spa and a gym could keep you here all day, but before dinner, it is time to make a little journey to Cherating for an enchanting encounter.

Malaysia is home to 19 types of fireflies and near Cherating, you can take part in a boat tour that will bring you really close to this magical creature. Mr Hafiz has a special way to communicate with fireflies and you will end up surrounded by them and also able to gently hold them. It lasts one hour and it is unmissable!

After you can drive to the Cherating beach where you will find several, simple traditional cafés and restaurants where to stop for dinner.

We found “Beach café by Payung ” to be super charming and romantic. Laid back, settled overlooking the beach it was just perfect to blend with locals! On the morning of the second day , you can relax a little longer at the Mangala resort and after check out, you will start to drive towards Kuala Dungun, but there are a couple of stops on the way.

Day 8-10 Kuala Dungun 2 nights

• DRIVING TIME: 1h and 45min
• WHERE TO STAY: Tanjong Jara resort is a luxury resort perfectly integrated into nature. It is located directly on the beach and it offers beautiful rooms with gigantic bathrooms. The staff are lovely and helpful. It isn’t a budget place but it is really worth the money. (It is quite popular, they have one restaurant on the beach, book it in advance or it will be difficult to get a table when you arrive)

The drive to the next stop is around 1h and 45 minutes, but you will drive a little longer to stop on the way in a couple of places.

This itinerary works well if you can spend two nights in Kuala Dungun, we needed to make it shorter and we cut 1 night here and we felt too rushed. The east coast is a place to savour slowly!

After leaving the Mangala resort in 20 minutes you can be at the Sangai Pandall waterfall. These waterfalls are scenic and a favourite day trip destination for people from Kuantan. There is a parking lot that makes them easily accessible even if the road signals are a little scarce. You need to keep your eyes open for directions even if you are following Google maps.

You can splash in the waterfall safely and you will find many people having picnics and some also camping overnight. There are the same basic facilities like toilets and changing rooms.

Another stop is about one hour drive past Kuantan. Near the Club Med, there is a Sea turtle conservation centre . You can visit it every day, except Monday, from 9:30 to 16:30. The place is small and half an hour is enough to cover the educational part and visit the little swimming pool where some turtles are kept waiting to be released. From around 6/6:30 you can also release the baby turtles to the ocean after paying a small fee.

Finally, you can drive the last part of the journey and check in to another astonishing place: Tanjong Jara resort .

The architecture of this place invokes the grandeur of Malay palaces from the 17th century with modern luxuries and outstanding services. There is a beautiful beach, a lovely swimming pool with a connected bar, two restaurants, and an adult-only area. They also organise different tours and activities.

On the beach, there is a small hatchery where they protect eggs that sea turtles come to lay and occasionally you can release baby turtles (there weren’t any when we were there, unfortunately). If you are short on time you could also consider staying at the resort an extra day and visiting the island as a day trip from here.

On the second day, you can relax by the pool/beach and in the afternoon drive to visit Terengganu.

On the morning of the third day, you will need to leave around 9:30 to drive to Merang Jetty to board the transfer boat to Pulau Lang Tengah.

Day 10-12 Pulau Lang Tengah 2 nights

• TRANSFER TIME: 2h. plus 30min on the boat
• WHERE TO STAY : There are only three properties on the island. Summer Bay Resort is supposed to be the best (where we stayed), but don’t have high expectations unfortunately, low competition means high prices and low quality.

To reach Merang jetty you will need around two hours of driving plus half an hour on a boat.

I recommend you book your tickets in advance online. The resort where you are going to stay can also organise transport for you, but I found it was much more expensive.

BE AWARE : Before continuing I want to make you aware of my opinion. Pulau Lang Tengah is the island located between the more famous Pulau Redang and Perhentian Island. It is less touristic and wilder than the others, this is the main reason I choose it.

Unfortunately what could spoil your stay is the hospitality on offer. There are only 3 resorts on the island. We stayed in the one that is in theory the best, Summerbay Resort. My husband found a good definition for it: “a hostel masquerading as a hotel”

Everything from start to end is managed and organised in a really poor way by a group of young people that, even if polite, don’t have a clue about customer service or what people would expect for the price they charge.

The food offer is incredibly poor, rooms are basic and not properly clean, on the sea excursion the boat is over packed, and regarding the other activities like the jungle walk, they just show you where to start then you follow a rope through the jungle until the end. No-one is coming with you to explain anything, same story for the activity of the blue tears.

However, yes I would probably go back because there are moments when you sit on the beach (on the broken sunbeds) that you could almost feel you are on a Maldivian island. The sea life is terrific, and you can just snorkel from the beach.

If you are not getting annoyed by what I mentioned before then you can really relax and unwind. Most of the guests are Asian and seem to prefer the swimming pool so the beach stays quiet. Luckily there is a Warung that serves good food so you don’t need to eat at the “resort” restaurant and there is also a pleasant bar to sit by in the evening.

Most people are coming here on 3 day 2 night all-inclusive packages, but you can also just go on a bed and breakfast formula, paying separately for the snorkel activity.

On the morning of the third day from here, you can move to Redang island.

Day 12-13 Pulau Redang 1 night

• TRANSFER TIME: 30 min on the boat
• WHERE TO STAY : If money is not a concern I would recommend The Taaras beach and Spa resort . It is a place where you find five-star service and you will be able to unwind while enjoying the spectacular island. A more affordable but still great solution is the Laguna Redang island resort.

To reach Redang island you can book a boat transfer that will bring you directly there from Pulau Lang Tengah. Also, in this case, you should book your ticket in advance. When you book the boat transfer you need to select the resort pick-up and the resort where you need to be dropped off.

Pulau Redang is a completely different island. It is much bigger than Lang Tengah and you can find several types of accommodation options.

Redang is a bigger island and so you will have more difficulty finding that peaceful and serene setting unique to Lang Tengah, but it is still a beautiful island.

The Taaras beach and Spa is the best and most luxurious resort on the island and if you can afford it, it is a real treat. Laguna beach resort is probably the second-best option. It is a big resort that opens up on the main beach. They have big and lovely rooms organised in small buildings. There is a massive swimming pool with even a small slide for kids.

Most people are here on the usual 2/3 days 1/2 nights package and move in groups for each activity including lunch and dinner where there is a specific time to respect. This creates massive queues like to enter a canteen. We experienced this issue only for breakfast as again we took only the bed and breakfast option.

The breakfast option was vast but the quality was poor. Fortunately, there are many other eating options for lunch and dinner including a tasty and cheap traditional Warung, but you can also just walk to one of the other resorts or restaurants on the beach.

While at the resort take part in their snorkelling tour to see the sea turtles. The tour is superb and highly recommended. At this resort, they don’t mix guests from the package with others and this makes the experience much more spacious and enjoyable.

The beach is long and so you could take a long walk and explore the sea life around the different spots.

On the second day enjoy time on the beach until check out because then you will need to move back on land and face a long drive.

Day 13-16 Penang 3 nights

• TRANSFER TIME: 30 min on the boat and 6h and 30 minutes drive
• WHERE TO STAY : Georgetown is rich in lovely hotels. JEN by Shangri-La is located really close to the old town, the rooms are big, and there is also a swimming pool and free parking. really recommended!

When you check out, the resort will bring you and your luggage back to the jetty. At the jetty in Redang, many boats are arriving and departing, ask for some help if you are not sure how to identify your transfer.

Once on land, you will need to drive around 6 hours from Merang Jetty to Penang.

Of course, if you have more days available you can add a stop halfway to break the trip, however, if you don’t, I still believe this is the best option.

The drive is long, but really scenic. After passing through some towns and villages, you will drive a great road with little traffic that passes through the rainforest and you will have countless opportunities for pictures.

In Penang, the recommendation is to stay close to the old town. Jen by Shangri-La is an excellent choice, modern and in a great location, they offer parking (free for guests) and they also have a swimming pool (that, however, closes a little early around 6 pm).

The first evening you can just stroll around for dinner at the hawker centre by Gurney drive.

Then the second day , you can explore the old town, Fort Cornwallis, the Chew jetty, Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, take the tour or at least stop for a drink by the Blue Mansion and enter one of the other heritage houses open to the public like the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. Take pictures in Armenian street and pick one of the many great restaurants for dinner.

On the third day head to Penang hill (make sure to secure your tickets in advance). Enjoy the spectacular views, walk in the virgin rainforest and enjoy the many stops along the way. The visit will take you at least half a day, then you can explore the close by Kek Lok Si Temple, and if you still have energy by the end of the day you can enjoy a stroll in the Botanic gardens.

The last day of the itinerary will depend on the time of your departure, if you have at least half a day available then pack your things and leave them with the hotel and head to Batu Ferringhi for the last sea visit. If you have a little longer you can reach Penang National park and after exploring it take the boat to Monkey beach.

WHAT IS LEFT OUT OF THIS ROAD TRIP TO MALAYSIA FROM SINGAPORE?

Every time you visit a big country you need to face the difficult decision of what to leave behind for the next visit. This itinerary leaves 3 major things behind: Taman Negara National park, Cameron Highlands, and Ipoh.

• Taman Negara : this a fabulous national park, where you can discover the tropical rainforest, walk in the jungle, along the river, and engage in fantastic treks. If you want to add it to the itinerary you should consider 2 nights, as arriving there takes quite a while. Check also with your doctor about Malaria risk as Malaria is still present in these areas.
• Cameron Highland s: this is an area with tea plantations, hiking trails, gardens, butterfly and bee farms, and more. If you want to add it to the itinerary, you should consider at least 2 nights.
• Ipoh : sacrificing Ipoh is a difficult choice. If you can’t add more days to the road trip you could question if it could be worth cutting some time from Penang, but don’t or you will feel rushed in both places.

HOW TO ADAPT THE ROAD TRIP

I’m going to suggest here a possible alternative to this road trip itinerary to Malaysia from Singapore. One option is in case you need to shorten the trip by 1 to 3 days, and another option is if you are planning the road trip from November to March.

How to shorten the itinerary

To shorten the trip cut the time in Malacca and on the islands. You can visit Malacca as a short stop while driving from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, saving one day. When you are in Kuala Dungun you can organise a day trip to Redang instead of spending one night there and finally, you can cut the time in Penang to 2 nights instead of 3.

Day 1 – 4 Singapore 3 Nights Day 4 – 6 Kuala Lumpur 2 Nights Day 6 – 7 Kuantan 1 Night

Day 7 – 9 Kuala Dungan 2 Nights Day 9 – 11 Lang Tengah 2 Nights Day 11 – 13 Penang 2 Nights

Adapt the itinerary during the monsoon season

If your road trip to Malaysia from Singapore is from November to March then you need to reconsider what to visit on the east coast. Most of the island resorts in Redang, Perhentian, Lang Tengah, and also Tioman close in this season. You can still enjoy the east coast mainland or you can spend more time on the west coast and stretch the itinerary to Langkawi and introduce one of the missing stops Ipoh, Taman Negara, or Cameron Highlands.

Day 1 – 4 Singapore 3 Nights Day 4 – 5 Malacca Day 4 – 6 Kuala Lumpur 2 Nights Day 6 – 7 Kuantan 1 Night

Day 7 – 9 Kuala Dungan 2 Nights Day 9 – 11 Ipoh 2 Nights Day 11 – 13 Penang 2 Nights Day 13 – 16 Langkawi 3 Nights

Let me know with a comment below if have any more questions! Enjoy the trip

MORE ABOUT MALAYSIA

• How to cross the border from Singapore to Malaysia
• Best accommodation with a private pool in Penang
• Lang Tengah vs Redang
• Driving in Malaysia: everything you need to know
• Easy short trips in Malaysia

NO TIME NOW? PIN IT FOR LATER

Clotilde Passalacqua

Clotilde is a resilient, resourceful and adventurous person that navigate the world of travelling with kids. She is a mum of 7 years old twins and she share practical tips, profound insights and genuine personal experience to empowers family to embrace travel with children as an enriching experience rather than a daunting challenge.

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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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Dive Into Malaysia

4-10 Day Singapore Malaysia Itinerary: Enjoy The Perfect Singapore And Malaysia Trip!

Planning a Singapore and Malaysia trip? Brilliant! This is a great part of the world and these destinations make a great combination.

Thanks to Singapore and Malaysia being so close together, it’s very easy to travel from Singapore to Malaysia and to enjoy a trip with both destinations.

In this article, I’m going to give you the perfect Singapore and Malaysia itinerary so all you have to is follow it! I do this by walking through a Singapore Malaysia itinerary for up to ten days.

If you are looking for a 4 days 3 nights Singapore Malaysia itinerary, simply stop reading at the 4 day point. If you want longer, keep reading! It’s easy to adjust this Singapore Malaysia tour itinerary to whatever time period you like.

I also describe exactly how to get from Singapore to Malaysia at the end as well as give you some specific Singapore to Malaysia day trip suggestions.

This is a Singapore to Malaysia itinerary which assumes you arrive in Singapore and leave from Malaysia. You can reverse it and make it a Malaysia Singapore itinerary instead.

You will also need to factor in time to get back to your starting point if you need to fly out of the same airport from where you started. Luckily, flights, taxis and buses between Malaysia and Singapore are quick and easy.

Excited? I hope so! This is a fabulous part of the world and I can’t wait to help you have the PERFECT Singapore Malaysia trip!

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

Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary For 4-10 Days

Day 1 – arrive in singapore.

Today is an introduction to Singapore.

• Start the day at Gardens by the Bay. Visit the conservatories and OCBC Skyway ( tickets here) where you walk among the futuristic trees. If you have kids, take bathers and also visit the childrens gardens. This is my favourite attraction in all of Singapore so don’t skip it! If you are on a budget, it’s still worth coming and walking around for free.
• Have lunch in the shopping centre at the base of the iconic Marina Bay Sands which is right next to Gardens by the Bay.
• Take the short train trip to Clarke Quay and walk though here and the historic Fort Canning on your way to the next attraction.
• Spend the afternoon at the National Museum of Singapore ( discount tickets here ).

Day 2 – Singapore

Today is all about discovering Singapore’s three main cultural groups.

• Start the day with some breakfast in Little India and then visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple.
• Walk to the nearby Malay area of Kampong Glam. Visit the Malay Heritage Centre and Sultan Mosque before having some Malay food for lunch.
• Finish with some temple visits in Chinatown before shopping for souvenirs at the markets here and having some great Chinese food for dinner.

Day 3 – Singapore

Your final day in Singapore is all about fun, Sentosa Island style! Sentosa Island is a small island just off the tip of Singapore which is easily reached by public transport, cable car or even walking over. It’s packed full of fun attractions and is Singapore’s playground.

It’s full of top class facilities and just walking around is fun. There are so many different attractions that it’s hard for me to say exactly what you should add to your Singapore Malaysia trip itinerary. It depends on your interests and budget as the attractions can be expensive and add up quickly. There are also many free attractions on Sentosa which you may prefer to stick to.

Here are my top recommendations:

• Start by heading to the Merlion Plaza and taking a photo of the Sentosa sign with the giant merlion as pictured above. Consider climbing up inside the Merlion Tower for great views ( tickets here ).
• Take the Skyline Luge and chair lift. This is one of our favourites!
• For more adrenaline rushes, try Mega Adventure where you can zipline and take a 15 metre jump or fly at iFly !
• Visit easily one of the best aquariums in the world at S.E.A. Aquarium ( tickets here ).
• If you have kids, visit the Palawan Pirate Ship. A free (and amazing) water playground.
• Walk to the Southern Most Point of Continental Asia.
• Enjoy the beaches
• Visit Fort Siloso and learn some WWII history

In the evening, head to the free light shows at Resorts World Sentosa.

I also recommend you take the cable car over one way ( discount tickets here ). The views are great! I also love Universal Studios Singapore but with one day, I would go to a few different attractions instead rather than spending the day at one so you get a better taste of Sentosa Island.

To save money and time, buy attraction tickets beforehand at Klook. We have saved so much money this way. Click here for many options.

There is also the Sentosa Fun Pass that can save you a lot of money. You basically buy a number of tokens and then exchange these tokens at various attractions on the island. The number you need depends on what you want to see. I suggest you will at least want 80.

You can find the Sentosa Fun Pass here and information about how many tokens are required for each attraction here.

Where To Stay In Singapore

Here are our best options for each budget. Pick the one that best suits you.

LUXURY: Marina Bay Sands

For luxury and the ultimate Singapore experience, you can’t go past the Marina Bay Sands, one of the most iconic hotel buildings in the world.

Have great views over Singapore as you relax in the infinity pool or visit the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck. Shop and eat in the downstairs shopping centre or enjoy one of the many hotel restuarants or room service. You can use the gym, day spa or simply have a drink at the pool bar.

There are a range of room types with doubles and twins on offer. All are spacious and well appointed and have everything you would expect in a 5 star hotel. You can pick the view you want and there are suites for extra luxury with their own living area.

In addition to staying in a fabulous hotel, you are also just moments walk away from Gardens By The Bay and other top Singapore attractions and there is a subway station below the hotel making sightseeing easy. This is the ultimate Singapore hotel and you have to stay here at least once!

Click here for the latest prices.

MIDRANGE: Village Hotel Bugis

The Village Hotel Bugis is our favourite hotel for a mix of a great price, very convenient location and a good standard of rooms and facilties. Located close to Bugis MRT station and many shopping centres, it’s easy to get around to all of Singapore here. It’s also located in the Malay area, Kampong Glam, and a short walk from Little India.

There are a range of room types which are all comfortable and well appointed, if on the cosy side. This includes family options which makes this a great choice with kids – we have stayed here with ours multiple times.

The hotel also has a swimming pool, gym and restaurants.

BUDGET: Backpacker Cozy Corner Guesthouse

For bargain seekers, the Backpacker Cozy Corner Guesthouse is also located in a convenient location near Bugis MRT and has everything you need for a budget Singapore stopover with excellent value rooms for the location and price.

Rooms include air conditioning and wifi and there are 2, 3 and 4 people rooms available. To save money, they do not have private bathrooms.

Singapore And Malaysia Itinerary 4 days

If you have just 4 days, use your final day in your Singapore Malaysia itinerary 4 days to do a day trip into Malaysia. Below, there are a range of Malaysia day trip options. Click here to read them and pick one!

My personal favourite is a fun day at Legoland Malaysia , but pick whichever most appeals to you.

We can book a taxi for you for the day to take you into Malaysia and back into Singapore again. Click here and fill in the form with what you want and we’ll get back to you.

If you are only looking for a Singapore Malaysia itinerary 3 days then cut out one of the Singapore days above which is least appealing.

Want the Easiest (and BEST) Way to travel between Singapore and Malaysia?

We can book a taxi for you from anywhere in Malaysia to anywhere in Singapore for a great price.

A taxi is the best way to cross the border as you don’t have to leave the air-conditioned comfort of your vehicle.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Day 4 –Johor Bahru

It’s time to say a sad goodbye to Singapore before heading over the causeway to more adventures in Malaysia!

There is more information below about how to travel between Malaysia and Singapore. It’s very straightforward.

We can also hire a taxi for you which picks you up at your hotel in Singapore and drops you off at your hotel in Johor Bahru for just SG$90. Click here to book and for more details.

Today, you will have a great day at Legoland Malaysia. You can buy discounted tickets here.

Day 5 – Johor Bahru And Melaka

This morning, it’s time to see some of Johor Bahru before catching a bus in the afternoon to Melaka.

• Head to central Johor Bahru near the causeway to Singapore. You can do some shopping or explore the streets to the west of the main strip here. Some are quite pretty and it’s a nice area to stroll around. Eat lunch before leaving Johor Bahru.
• Take a taxi to the main bus station in Johor Bharu, Larkin Bus Terminal, and then take a bus to Melaka. You can book bus tickets here on some great bus services. The bus takes about three hours and I recommend you book a bus for the early afternoon.
• Take a taxi to your hotel, freshen up and head to Jonker Street in the evening. If it’s Friday or Saturday night, enjoy the night market, but there are plenty of places to eat any night on this famous strip.

Note that Melaka and Malacca are different ways to spell the same place.

If you have your own vehicle on this journey, I recommend stopping at Muar on your way. It does not take much extra time to do this, but Muar is a pretty city with some great street art and is a great plae to break up the journey.

Read more about Muar here.

Where To Stay In Johor Bahru

Luxury: doubletree by hilton hotel johor bahru.

Located just minutes from the Causeway in a convenient location, the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru is a great choice if you want a luxury hotel which is easy to use as a base to explore both Johor Bahru and Singapore.

Despite not being rated as a five-star hotel, it is our top pick of the options near the Causeway. It has first class facilities including a stunning outdoor swimming pool on the 13th floor, four restaurants, gym, steam room, spa and wifi.

Each of the hotel’s spacious guest rooms have everything you would expect from a top option such as air conditioning, TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a pillow menu. There are also larger suites with separate living areas as well as rooms which are apartment style and have a kitchenette with washing machine. All this for a great price!

MIDRANGE: Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru

For a midrange price option, you can’t go past the Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru. Also well located near the Causeway and shopping, this is a great base for Singapore and Johor Bahru exploration.

There are many facilities at this hotel. You can use the tennis and squash courts, a gym, sauna and a yoga studio.  Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a day spa, three onsite restaurants and bars.

There are a range of accommodation options at this hotel. In addition to standard hotel rooms, you can book a room with a separate living and sleeping area or even a room with a kitchenette.

BUDGET: Baguss Hotel And Serviced Apartment

For a real bargain, consider the Baguss Hotel and Serviced Apartments. Close to the Causeway and downtown shopping areas, this standard, 3-star hotel is especially a great choice for families and groups looking for accommodation.

There are a range of hotel rooms suitable from two to four people. Each hotel room includes air conditioning, a TV, wifi, tea and coffee making facilities and a refrigerator. For larger groups, there are 3 bedroom apartments which can accommodate up to 6 people. These apartments include a kitchen and lounge room.

Find more Johor Bahru accommodation options here.

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary 5 Days

If you are looking for a 5 days 4 nights Singapore Malaysia itinerary then you can do the five days above and head back to Singapore to fly out on day 5 instead of on to Melaka.

You could also consider spending all 5 days in Singapore and just taking a day trip to Johor Bahru. If money isn’t an issue, this is a good choice. Otherwise, it is more budget friendly to stay in Johor Bahru accommodation.

If Melaka sounds interesting to you, you could also follow the first four days above and then do a day trip to Melaka on the final day of your Singapore Malaysia 5 days itinerary ( find one here ). This is a long day but I have done it myself and it’s very doable.

You can also hire a private taxi here for the day to travel quickly and easily to Malaysia for the day.

Day 6 – Melaka

Today is all about exploring Melaka’s historic centre and Chinatown before heading to your final stop, Kuala Lumpur, in the evening.

Get your walking legs on! Everything mentioned here is close and, while you can take taxis or trishaws to get around, the attractions are so close together that there is no real need.

• Start at the Sultanate Palace where you can walk through a replica of the palace of Sultan Mansur Shah who ruled Melaka from 1456 to 1477.
• Take a photo of Porta de Santiago and explore the ruins of St Paul’s Church.
• Walk downhill to Stradthuys, the town hall and governor’s residence that dates back to the Dutch in 1650. Trishaws tend to congregate here so you can go on a ride on one if you like.
• Walk over the river to Chinatown and head to 8 Heeren Street to check out this 18th century Dutch period residence.
• Next, walk through Chinatown to Baba and Nonya Heritage Centre.
• By now, you have probably worked up an appetite. Eat some lunch.
• Finish your Melaka day tour by visiting three temples all close together: Cheng Hoon Temple, Masjid Kampung Kling and Sri Poyatha Venayagar Moorthi Temple.

In the late afternoon, catch your onward bus to Kuala Lumpur. This takes about 2.5 hours and I recommend booking a bus from 3-4pm.

Click here to book it now.

On arrival, check in to your hotel. If you feel like going out, head to the night markets in Petaling Street or Jalan Alor.

You can find our recommend hotels in Kuala Lumpur here.

Where To Stay In Melaka

Luxury: casa del rio melaka .

Located in a premium position just 300 metres from Jonker Street and right by the river, you will find the best option in Melaka, the stunning 5-star luxury boutique hotel, Casa del Rio Melaka Hotel.

There are a a range of room types on offer including options for up to 6 people in two-bedroom suites. All rooms include standard fittings such as a TV, wifi, tea and coffee making facilities, air conditioning and a desk. If you book a suite, you will also have separate living and dining areas. Some suites even include an outdoor spa.

This hotel features first-class facilities with a stunning infinity swimming pool offering views across the Melaka River as well as three restaurants, a gym, a rooftop garden and day spa.

MIDRANGE: Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka 

This 5-star hotel at a midrange price point is a great choice. Located along the Melaka River just a short taxi ride from Jonker St, the Swiss-Garden Hotel offers guests modern accommodation.

There are a range of rooms which accommodate up to two guests and include all the standard amenities including a TV, air conditioning, wi-fi, tea and coffee making facilities, private balcony and seating area.

You can also book a suite which includes separate dining and living areas. Some rooms  also include panoramic views of the ocean and the Melaka River. Ask for a high level!

The Swiss-Garden Hotel includes a range of great facilities including two big swimming pools, a tennis court and the Sky Garden rooftop bar. The hotel also has direct access to a shopping mall.

BUDGET: T Hotel Melaka

The T Hotel which is located in Melaka City just a 15 minutes walk from Jonker Street, is a good choice for budget travellers.

They offer double, twin, triple or family suites. All are comfortable and clean and come with air conditioning, wifi, a TV, tea and coffee facilities and a seating area.

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

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary For 7 Days

If you are looking for a 6 nights 7 days Singapore Malaysia itinerary you could stop right here. This does mean that you don’t have much time in Kuala Lumpur. If you would prefer some time in Kuala Lumpur (which I do recommend), drop either Johor Bahur or Melaka, whichever appeals less. It’s easy to get buses from Singapore to Melaka directly or from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur.

You can then pick a day or two from the following three recommmend days in Kuala Lumpur for your Singapore Malaysia itinerary 7 days.

Days 7-9 Kuala Lumpur

Three days in Kuala Lumpur is a great amount of time to get a good taste of this city on your Malaysia Singapore trip.

You can read my full (and detailed) itinerary for 3 days in Kuala Lumpur here.

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary For 10 Days

If you have 10 days, you can add an extra day to Kuala Lumpur using my suggestions in my 3 day itinerary article here .

You could also add an extra day to Singapore if that appeals more or if you want to do an activity there like visit Universal Studios. However, if you are looking for a Singapore Malaysia budget itinerary then the less time in more expensive Singapore, the less you will need to spend so Kuala Lumpur can be a better pick.

Singapore And Malaysia Trip 10+ Days

If you have more than ten days, yay! There are so many great places that you can add on in Malaysia.

I have a full itinerary document here for Malaysia travel for ten days. This includes travelling to Ipoh, Penang and Langkawi after Kuala Lumpur so you can add one or all of these destinations to the itinerary above to create a plan for up to 17 days.

Click here to download it now.

If you want to visit Thailand as well, you can find itineraries here which include Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand as well as other south east Asia destinations.

Singapore To Malaysia Day Trip

If you don’t have time for a big Singapore Malaysia adventure then you may just with to take a one day trip to Malaysia from Singapore. With a timeframe of less than 5 days, this is what I recommend.

This is completely possible and you could spend a 1 day trip to Malaysia from Singapore doing one of the days in the itinerary above to Johor Bahru or Melaka. Just note with Melaka that you will spend a lot of time travelling over the day but it is highly possible – I have done it myself.

Singapore to Malaysia day trip ideas:

• Legoland Malaysia: The easiest and maybe most fun suggestion is to spend a day at Legoland Malaysia. There are buses directly here from Singapore and it’s a fun and easy place to enjoy. More details here .
• Johor Bahru: You can catch the local bus over the causeway and explore central Johor Bahru.
• Melaka: You can either pay for an expensive day tour here (easiest option) or save on your Singapore Malaysia trip cost and take public transport from Singapore to Melaka and back again and explore Melaka on your own, as per day 6 above. The bus takes about four hours each way so buy your ticket in advance and go early.
• Desaru Coast: This coastal area in Malaysia is just one hour from Singapore with a half-hour ferry ( buy here ) and half-hour shuttle and is perfect if you would like some white sandy beach time or to have some fun visiting attractions such as a huge water park, ostrich, fruit or crocodile farm.

The easiest way to day trip to Malaysia is in your own private taxi. We can hire you one of the day with a safe and reliable local operator. Click here to get a quote.

They can pick you up from your Singapore hotel and drop you off there again at the end of the day.

How To Travel From Singapore To Malaysia

Getting from Singapore to Malaysia could really not be easier. There are buses, planes, trains and even taxis across. It’s been streamlined as much as possible because it’s such a popular option with thousands of people doing it all the time.

The easiest way to get across the causeway from Singapore to Malaysia is to hire a private car and driver. These can be quite affordable for a family or small group and you can be picked up and dropped off wherever you like and don’t need to get out of the car at the border.

Click here for more details about hiring a private driver to take you to Malaysia . This starts at just SG$90 for up to 5 people.

You can also get a local taxi but they are less flexible. If you catch a Singaporean taxi, they can only drop you at Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. If you catch a Malaysian taxi, they can drop you off anywhere in Malaysia but can only pick you up Queen Street Bus Terminal. They also need to be especially licensed to do this – you can’t just take any taxi.

The cheapest (and still quite easy) way to get across is with public, local bus called the Causeway Bus. Note that with the bus, you will need to get off and back on again at both immigration points in Singapore and Malaysia with all your belongings. Once you are through, you simply wait for the next Causeway Bus to come along. You can catch it from:

• Kranji MRT (route CW1) from SGD$1.50 (RM1.90 return)
• Queens Street (route CW2) from SGD$3.50 (RM3.40 return)
• Newton Circus (route CW5) from SGD$3.30 (RM3.40 return)

The buses stop along the way so you can also hop on elsewhere along the route.

If you need to get between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur then I recommend flying.  This is often a very good price and cuts out the longer journey. For further afield than KL, I also recommend flying.

If you are going across to Johor Bahru, Melaka or anywhere else south of Kuala Lumpur then going overland is the best choice. We can book you a taxi from anywhere in Singapore to anywhere in pensinular Malaysia, and there are direct buses too.

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

Getting Around Malaysia

An easy way to get around Malaysia is with private taxi. These can take you between different towns and cities.

Click here for our long distance taxi booking service.

There is also a great bus system. Find tickets and prices here.

Singapore Malaysia Trip Map

I hope you enjoyed this Singapore Malaysia DIY itinerary.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

You can also find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia here. There are more Malaysia itineraries here.

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

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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Go Road Trippin’ At These 10 Malaysia Destinations From Singapore

Ready to visit neighbouring Malaysia now that the land borders have opened? Apart from hitting up the shopping malls at Johor Bahru, why not expand your radius by heading on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore! Blending vast, untouched forests and cities packed with classic architecture, Malaysia is an underrated treasure trove of culture and beauty that’ll definitely appeal to visitors of all ages. Wondering where are the best places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore? Read on for our favourite road trip destinations in Malaysia you must drive to!

Is it possible to drive from Singapore to Malaysia?

The answer is yes, of course! Since August 2022, all individuals no longer need to fill in the digital traveller’s card on the MySejahtera mobile application – meaning, they can now travel between Singapore and Malaysia’s land borders regardless of their vaccination status, and without testing or quarantine.

Without a daily limit on travellers, you can expect there to be crowds and traffic jams at certain places. You can help make the immigration process faster and smoother by making sure you keep these in mind:

For those using passports

Taking a road trip to Malaysia in a Singapore-registered vehicle means that you’ll need a VEP. You can apply for a VEP through the VEP-JPJ portal and upon successful registration, you’ll get a VEP RFID tag. You may use the confirmation slip of your VEP application if you’re travelling to Malaysia before the RFID tag is ready. You’ll also have to check whether your passport has expired. Make sure that you still have six months left on your passport before it’s due for renewal. 

Also, after passing through a manned immigration booth, check that your passports are stamped before leaving the immigration booth.

For those using the MACS System

If you’re using the Malaysia Automated Clearance System (MACS 2.0), you’re probably someone who frequently travels to and from Malaysia. With the MACS pass, travellers can expedite their customs screening, as there’s no need for immigration stamps when entering and exiting the country. A great way to make up for the long jams you might encounter!

Crossing the border by driving

Taking a road trip to Malaysia in a Singapore-registered vehicle means that you’ll need a VEP. You can apply for a VEP through the VEP-JPJ portal and upon successful registration, you’ll get a VEP RFID tag. You may use the confirmation slip of your VEP application if you’re travelling to Malaysia before the RFID tag is ready.

Vehicle insurance for your car or motorcycle is also compulsory if you’re entering Malaysia. Make sure that your insurance policy is still valid while you’re on your road trip to Malaysia.

Travel insurance

While travel insurance isn’t compulsory, it’s always best to be prepared when going on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore. As foreign visitors are charged for all medical treatments, it’s advisable to get travel insurance to help cover any potential accidents or injuries that might crop up on your visit to Malaysia.

Touch ‘n Go card

Just like how we have a NETS cashcard to pay for parking fees and ERP charges, the Touch N’ Go card is needed to pay for highway and checkpoint tolls when you’re taking a road trip to Malaysia. You can get an EZ-Link x Touch N’ Go Motoring card at selected 7-11 outlets in Singapore. This dual-currency card holds two electric purses for Singapore dollars and Malaysian ringgit. You can use this dual purpose EZ-Link x Touch N’ Go Motoring card for parking fees, bus fares, MRT fees and ERP charges in Singapore, and highway and checkpoint tolls in Malaysia!

MySafeTravel and MySejahtera app

Don’t forget to submit your vaccination status on MySafeTravel and download the MySejahtera tracking application on your mobile phone before your road trip to Malaysia. The MySejahtera app is similar to Singapore’s TraceTogether, where you’ll scan a QR code to check in at various places. 

From Singapore to Malaysia: Best road trip destinations within five hours drive

Wondering where to go in Malaysia from Singapore that’s guaranteed to be a fun destination? Known as Johor’s royal city, Muar easily earns a spot on our list for road trip destinations in Malaysia because of how it offers something for everyone. For those looking to try authentic Malaysian food, Muar serves a lip-smacking variety to overwhelm your taste buds! You can’t go wrong with local favourites like aromatic Otak-Otak (grilled fish cake) and creamy laksa .

Fan of colonial architecture? As a must-see remnant of Malaysia’s colonial era, the Sultan Ibrahim Jamek remains one of the most beautiful sights to spot in Muar! Providing a serene view of the Muar River, the sky-blue mosque was built with Western and Eastern influences in mind and adopts a unique neoclassical aesthetic. Ultimately, it’s the intricate designs of the mosque’s columns and balconies that help it stand out from the rest in Malaysia!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 2 hours

For those seeking an all-inclusive holiday experience, check out the Lotus Desaru Beach Resort And Spa! The wealth of facilities combined with the naturally beautiful surroundings here make the resort a highly sought after destination for families and those looking to recharge and relax. These include adrenaline-filled water sports, therapeutic body scrubs and relaxing fun at their mini waterpark .

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 1 hour 30 minutes

When you’re planning your Malaysia road trip from Singapore, be sure not to miss out on this exciting destination – Gombak. It’s home to the iconic Batu Caves, one of the world’s most popular Hindu shrines and also one of Malaysia’s biggest tourist attractions. Every year, thousands of tourists pay a visit to get a glimpse of the towering gold statue at its entrance, as well as to snap some Insta-worthy pics while braving its 272-step rainbow stairs.

That’s not all – Gombak is also a mere half-hour’s drive away from Sunway Lagoon, one of Malaysia’s biggest amusement parks, with over 80 attractions that’re split into 6 different theme parks. From dry and wet parks, to more thrilling activities like bungee jumping, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Overall, Gombak is definitely one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, and also a place worth including in your road trip itinerary from Singapore.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 3 hours 58 minutes

If you’re a fan of Little Nyonya , we understand why you’re thinking about taking a drive from Singapore to Malaysia. Malacca’s Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum is one of the many Peranakan houses that line the streets here. Home to four generations of a local family, this house has now become a museum that honours the Peranakan culture. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in this ethnic culture when you can get up close with the classic Peranakan artefacts!

Fuel up at the Jonker Walk Night Market after your visit to the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum! From Nyonya popiah and fried ice cream at the street stalls, to restaurants and cafes, you’ll be spoiled for choice when deciding on your dinner! Don’t forget to pick up some quirky souvenirs along this bustling street.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 2 hours 41 minutes

From Singapore to Malaysia: Best road trip destinations beyond five hours drive

5. kuala selangor.

Prefer quieter locations for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore? Here’s a place you should check out on your next visit to Malaysia. Located within a stone’s throw away from the nation’s capital, Kuala Selangor is one of our favourite destinations on road trips to Malaysia – abundant with natural attractions. If you’re a nature lover, Taman Alam nature reserve will be perfect for you! You can catch sightings of migratory birds and agile monkeys among staggering varieties of other flora and fauna.

Don’t forget to add Melawati Hill to your travel itinerary when researching where to go in Malaysia from Singapore! The Altingburg Lighthouse set on this hill is a popular destination as it offers a beautiful view of the sea. You may even be able to catch the lighthouse in action as it’s still being used to guide vessels navigating the Straits of Malacca! Do also visit Fort Altingburg before leaving Kuala Selangor, Malaysia. You’ll be able to see the fort’s ruins, its cannons, an observatory tower built for sighting the new moon, and more!

Fascinated by mesmerising photos of Bolivia’s world famous Uyuni Salt Flats? Take a Malaysia road trip from Singapore and visit Kuala Selangor’s Sky Mirror where you can get a similar experience at a fraction of the cost! The elusive sand bar only reveals itself during low tide, making it a secret tourist attraction that’s only accessible twice a month. Due to Sky Mirror’s endless horizon and shallow waters, the location is often visited by photography enthusiasts keen on taking the perfect Instagram-worthy shot.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 4 hours 4 minutes

Pro tip: You’ll pass Gombak, Malacca and Kuala Lumpur as you drive towards Kuala Selangor. If you don’t want to make too many pit stops, we’d suggest taking a break halfway through your journey, which will be in Malacca. You can visit Malaysia’s famous Jonker Street for some food and souvenirs!

You can’t leave out Ipoh on a list of where to go in Malaysia from Singapore. Known for a mouth-watering array of local cuisine, you can get ready for quality options such as their flavourful Hor Fun ( noodle strips in chicken broth ) and Ipoh white coffee ! Self-professed foodies will also adore creating their own food trail and will be spoilt for choice with options like Pusing Public Seafood Restaurant and Sin Yoon Loong.

Your Malaysia road trip from Singapore isn’t complete without visiting Ipoh’s limestone cave temples. These Ipoh temples are built into the side of limestone hills, so you’ll realise that temperatures are cooler the moment you step in. The Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple & Zen Gardens is one of such temples that are popular among tourists. As you walk to the end of the cave temple, the other end will open out to a beautiful lake and a garden. This is where you can rent paddle boats and bicycles to tour the grounds with your companions! 

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 6 hours

Pro tip: Take a break in Kuala Lumpur as you make your way towards Ipoh. This is a midway point as you drive from Singapore. You can visit Berjaya Times Square where there are over 1,000 retail shops and 60 food outlets. Not only can you fill up on food and stock up on snacks to tide you over the remaining journey to Ipoh, you can get a massage too! 

7. Cameron Highlands

Don’t make Ipoh your final destination on your Malaysia road trip from Singapore! Continue driving and you’ll reach Cameron Highlands in about two hours! Named after British explorer Sir William Cameron, the location is a haven for tea fanatics — with tea terraces stretching as far as the eye can see. Although the view of the vast greenery alone is enough to warrant a visit, there are plenty of things to do once you’re there! These range from indulging in quality tea and plucking fresh strawberries to trekking through Mossy Forest and exploring Orang Asli village.

Driving the entire road trip from Singapore to Malaysia can be exhausting, so it’s time to reward yourself with a picnic at the Cameron Flora Park. This is where to go in Malaysia from Singapore for an Insta-worthy experience as you dig into your picnic with a sea of pink flowers at the back. If you can’t get enough of flowers, head on over to the Cameron Lavender Garden. Immerse yourself in a garden of lavender flowers , hydrangeas, and more while enjoying a nice lavender ice cream!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 7 hours 34 minutes

Pro tip: Go for some Puchong Yong Tau Fu before continuing your journey towards the Cameron Highlands. The food here will be more than enough to fill you up and there’s also AEON BiG Puchong Utama nearby where you can stock up on snacks for the rest of your road trip.

Looking to escape the frenzy of life in the big city? As one of the furthest road trip destinations in Malaysia, Penang Island or  Pulau Pinang  stands as a bastion of old-world charm that contradicts the modern-day hustle and bustle. The combination of old and new makes visiting Penang feel like you’re stepping into a time capsule.

Everything from the preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the striking street art further emphasises this!

Of course, after the hawker delights and cultural immersion within the city, you’ll naturally want to find a place to wind down and relax. What better way to do it than on one of Penang’s beaches? They’re must-visit spots when going on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore, especially the ones that line the coastal area, Batu Ferringhi. Simply park your cars near one of the beaches or beach resorts, and make your way to the sandy shores on foot – then take a seat on the warm sand and enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever set your eyes on. After sundown, you can frequent the night markets likened to our local pasar malams .

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 8 hours 15 minutes

Pro tip: For foodies who travelled all the way down to Penang for the famous Siam Road Char Kuey Teow, he’s open from 3pm till he sells out, and is closed on Mondays – try queuing off peak hours!

Never had the luck of spotting a double rainbow? Why not check out the one at Sungai Lembing’s Rainbow Waterfall in Kuantan! While the journey for this road trip destination in Malaysia can seem tedious with the rough drive across rocky terrain and trekking past slippery rocks, the view is definitely worth it. Reach the premises before 10am and you’ll spot a fascinating sight of a rainbow reflecting off the base of the waterfall to create a fainter bow above!

Looking to challenge yourself physically? Avid mountain hikers will find a huge payout when they reach Bukit Panorama’s peak! Even though it stands at just 271m tall, the summit provides a stunning vista of Sungai Lembing that comes complete with picturesque sunrise and rolling hills. Beginner climbers should use the 1000 cement steps with handrails that shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to conquer!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 5 hours

Pro tip: Take a quick stop at Kota Tinggi where you can have some McDonald’s and visit the nearby supermarket to stock up on more road trip snacks. You can also refuel your vehicle at the nearby petrol station and buy more titbits at the convenience store.

10. Kuala Terengganu

As one of the furthest destinations for any Malaysia road trip from Singapore, Kuala Terengganu is a location you’ll have a blast at if you’re a museum buff! Kuala Trengganu’s State Museum holds the title of largest museum in South East Asia and occupies 27 hectares of land including galleries and open air exhibitions. You’ll learn plenty, especially with their extensive collection of Keris (ancient Javanese daggers) and royal emblems.

Besides being rich in history and culture, Kuala Terengganu is also fondly referred to as the Land of Turtles! Over at sites like Perhentian Turtle Sanctuary Beach and Rantau Abang, thousands of Leatherbacks and Olive Ridleys will gather to nest. While this number has dwindled considerably over the years, it’s still worth a visit during June and July on the off-chance that you spot one of these gentle giants! Soaking in the wonders of nature doesn’t end there. Stroll down the boardwalk along the harbour at Pulau Duyong and enjoy the starry night sky while watching the subtle lights from passing yachts. It’s truly a sight to behold.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 7 hours 10 minutes

Pro tip: Stop at Chaah where you can visit Village Noodle & Cafe for a quick meal. You can also head to the nearby convenience store at the Shell petrol station to refuel your vehicle and get more snacks!

Road trip essentials to pack for your drive from Singapore to Malaysia

With some of these road trips destinations in Malaysia taking up to eight hour long drives, you’ll need to ensure you’re sufficiently equipped so you won’t be travelling in discomfort. Here are some road trip travel essentials to pack for those long and drawn out rides.

1. Portable speakers

Every road trip needs a fun playlist to keep the gang hyped and in good spirits for the long ride! To keep you grooving, you’ll need a powerful portable speaker to amplify your songs. From ones with outstanding sound quality to battery-powered speakers that last for more than 20 hours, here’s our in-depth guide to shopping for the best wireless speakers .

2. Travel pillow

Just like long flights, lengthy drives can be strenuous on the neck and overall posture as you’re forced to sit in an almost upright position for hours. To help remedy this, make sure to equip yourself with travel pillows . Need recommendations to meet your budget? Read our guide to the best travel pillows !

3. Portable power banks and charging cords

Instead of planning to ration out your power usage for electronic devices, why not buy a portable battery? Power banks keep your devices charged and ready for use at a moment’s notice. For a buyer’s guide, check out these best power banks you can buy today! Also, be sure to stock up on phone cables so you won’t need to worry about misplacing or accidentally damaging them.

No Malaysia road trip from Singapore can be completed on an empty stomach! If you’re looking to get to your destinations early, you’ll want to keep pit stops to a minimum. To keep those hunger pangs at bay, we recommend bringing along your favourite snacks and sweets . Not sure what to pack? Check out our must-try Korean snacks and Japanese snacks !

5. Personal entertainment devices

Nothing wiles away the hours like a good narrative! Whether you’re clearing your movie backlog on your tablet or playing the latest Nintendo Switch games, these devices will definitely keep you entertained while on your Malaysia road trip from Singapore. In need of titles to keep you busy? Read our guide to the best Chinese dramas and Korean dramas or check out our list of best Nintendo Switch games .

Don’t forget to bring along your camera so you can document memorable moments from your road trip! There are also instant portable cameras and film cameras that have filters that give a retro feel to your pictures. These film cameras are perfect for giving your shots of rural Malaysia a subtle vintage vibe. When you’re done with your Malaysia road trip from Singapore, go and develop your film so you can collate all these pictures into a photo album and memorialise your trip! 

7. Backpacks and travel document holders

You’ll need to get a proper backpack to fit all your travel essentials for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore. Not only does it need to be large enough for all your important travel items, you should also get one that is fitted with RFID. The RFID blocking layer will protect your bank cards and passports from skimmers who can easily steal information with a wireless scanner. This means that you should also get a travel document holder with RFID. Moreover, having a travel document holder means you won’t have to go digging in your backpack for your passport!

8. Swimwear

The best way to end off your Malaysia road trip from Singapore is by taking a dip in a pool or going for a swim at a beach. Stretch out your limbs and get swimming in your favourite swimwear and bikini ! Don’t forget to pack more than one bikini so you don’t have to wait for the other to dry before going for another swim. Need help picking the perfect swimwear? Check out the best bikini types for each body shape !

9. Medical supplies

Another essential you need to prepare for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore is a first aid kit . It’s important to have medical supplies on hand in case you get minor injuries as you explore the rural outdoors of Malaysia. 

Start organising a Malaysia road trip from Singapore

After going through our list of where to go in Malaysia from Singapore, we hope you’re all set to have a fantastic Malaysia road trip! If you need a breather from all the driving, we recommend making a pitstop at a hotel along the way. Interested in a short getaway to paradise? Book a stay at one of the best Batam resorts or best Bintan resorts for an Insta-worthy vacation! Need help organising those travel essentials you’re bringing abroad? Read up on our guide to choosing a luggage and check out our recommendations on the best luggage options in Singapore !

This article was updated on 19 June 2023. Additional research done by Foo Pei Shi.

By Bryant Tay

When he's not telling others why Tom Holland is the best Spider-man, Bryant can be found indulging in football banter and exploring the vast world of gym fitness. He'll also buy you a cup of coffee if you can name a video game he's never heard of!

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The Ultimate Guide to Your Singapore to Malaysia Road Trip Adventure

Bavani Srinu

 · Visit Malaysia

Planning Your Trip to Malaysia:

One-night itinerary:, five-day itinerary:, eight-day itinerary:, conclusion:.

Did you know Singaporeans topped the list of 26 million tourist arrivals to Malaysia, according to the Malaysian Immigration Department’s latest statistics recorded from Jan 1 to Nov 15, 2023?

If you are planning on a visit to Malaysia why not try a unforgettable road trip from the vibrant streets of Singapore to Malaysia? Sounds interesting? Drive lah your local car rental in Singapore is here to help you with this comprehensive guide for your ultimate road trip adventure. Are you ready? Lets go!

How much time does it take ? Distance between Singapore and KL, is approximately 350 kilometres & can be covered in around 4-5 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions, how many breaks you take in middle and border crossing times.

Three-Quarters Rule: Make sure your car's gas tank is three quarters full before leaving Malaysia if you're driving a Singapore-registered vehicle. If authorities find your fuel level too low at the Singapore-Malaysia land checkpoints, you could get fined up to S$500 by Singapore Customs, so, keep your tank filled to avoid any problems.

Visa rule: Singaporeans, can enter Malaysia for up to 30 days without a visa for tourism purpose. However, it's essential to check the latest visa requirements before your trip.

What about tolls ? Tolls are applicable on highways in both Singapore and Malaysia. Prepare sufficient cash in the local currency or use electronic payment methods such as Touch 'n Go or NETS FlashPay for quick and seamless toll payments.

Crossing the Border:  The iconic Causeway connects you to Johor Bahru, but expect queues during peak hours, especially during long weekends. For a faster option, the Second Link you to Tanjung Kupang.

Decide on your ideal trip length: A quick weekend getaway (2 days), a relaxed exploration (5 days), or an immersive adventure (8 days).

When to go?  Aim for dry months (March-May, September-November) to avoid getting caught in unexpected showers.

Important documents: Pack your passport, driving license, car insurance, and vehicle registration papers. Don't be the one scrambling at the border!

Ringgit Ready: Exchange your Singapore Dollars (SGD) for Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) beforehand. Consider a Touch 'n Go card for cashless payments and tolls - convenience is your friend!

Toll Time: Remember to factor in toll charges and Vehicle Entry Permits (VEPs) depending on your route and car type. Don't get caught off guard! 

Now the fun part - Malaysia Itinerary

Decide on your ideal trip length: a quick weekend getaway (1 Night), a relaxed exploration (5 days), or an immersive adventure (8 days).

Start from Singapore early in the morning and head towards Johor Bahru , the gateway to Malaysia.

Explore attractions such as Legoland Malaysia , featuring exciting rides and themed zones, or Johor Bahru City Square for shopping and dining experiences.

Return to Singapore in the evening or have a staycation in one of the many hotels. Please remember if you are coming back on a weekends keep ample time for border crossings and traffic delays.

Day 1-2: Drive from Singapore to Malacca (Melaka), a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its colonial history, cultural landmarks, and culinary delights. Explore historical sites, museums, and savor Peranakan cuisine - like Nonya laksa, chicken rice balls, and cendol. Yum! Visit attractions such as A Famosa fortress, Jonker Street, and St. Paul's Hill.

Day 3-4: Continue your journey to Kuala Lumpur. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, and enjoy shopping and dining experiences at Bukit Bintang.

Day 5: Head back to Singapore, making stops at scenic spots along the way for photo opportunities, such as Genting Highlands or the picturesque town of Seremban.  

Day 1-3: Explore Johor Bahru and its nearby attractions, including Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque, Danga Bay, and the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple.

Day 4-6: Journey to Penang, known as the "Pearl of the Orient," and indulge in its rich cultural heritage, delicious street food, and beautiful beaches. Explore Georgetown's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Fort Cornwallis, Khoo Kongsi clan house, and street art murals.

Day 7-8: Return to Singapore via Kuala Lumpur, making stops at attractions you may have missed on the outbound journey or exploring new places along the route.

Cameron Highlands: Escape the urban heat and enjoy scenic hikes, stunning tea plantations, and fresh strawberries. Think cool mountains, breathtaking views, and delicious desserts!

Taman Negara National Park: Get lost in the lush rainforest, trek through diverse ecosystems, and spot exotic wildlife. Think jungle adventures, wildlife encounters, and bragging rights!

Do not miss the opportunity to visit natural attractions such as the Cameron Highlands, known for its tea plantations and cool climate, or the Batu Caves, home to Hindu shrines and the annual Thaipusam festival. Ipoh:  Savor the city's unique white coffee and marvel at the stunning Kek Lok Tong cave temple complex. Think cultural exploration, caffeine fix, and breathtaking cave formations! Also read - Car Rental Versus Owning a Car: Which Is Right for You in Singapore?      Things to do beyond eating delicious food in Malaysia:

Shop till you drop: Treat yourself to retail therapy with luxury brands at discounted prices in KL. It's time to splurge!

Visit Desaru Coast: Escape to a world of beaches, water parks, and adventure activities. Think water slides, wave pools, and adrenaline rushes! 

Accommodation options cater to all budgets, from comfortable homestays to luxurious resorts. Choose your vibe:

Johor Bahru: City chic hotels, modern apartments. Think skyline views, rooftop pools, and urban convenience.

Malacca: Boutique hotels in charming heritage buildings, budget-friendly guesthouses. Think historical charm, hidden courtyards, and affordable stays.

Penang: Heritage hotels in Georgetown, beachside resorts in Batu Ferringhi. Think colonial architecture, seaside relaxation, and beachfront bliss.

Cameron Highlands: Charming colonial bungalows, rustic cabins amidst nature. Think cozy fireplaces, mountain views, and a relaxing escape.

Hit the Gas! Rent Your Perfect car:

For a smooth and stress-free journey, consider renting a car with Drive lah. We offer a diverse fleet of vehicles to suit your needs and budget, whether you seek a fuel-efficient hatchback for exploring cities or a spacious SUV for adventurous escapades. Our knowledgeable team will guide you towards the perfect vehicle, ensuring you hit the road feeling confident and prepared.

With this guide and Drive lah's support, your Singapore-Malaysia road trip will be an unforgettable adventure. So, pack your bags, crank up the music, and get ready to discover the wonders that await! ​ Read More -  Driving the Future: Why Renting Beats Owning in Singapore's Fast Lane     

As you embark on your Singapore to Malaysia road trip adventure, let Drive lah provide you with the perfect rental car to enhance your journey. With a wide selection of cars to choose from and convenient rental options, Drive lah ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience from start to finish. Get ready to create lasting memories as you explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and flavours of our neighbour Malaysia on the road trip of a lifetime.

sg car rental to malaysia

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Unlock Your Next Adventure with Drive lah Car Rentals

Nearby Cars, Unbeatable Variety, Affordable and Flexible Rental Options

We are a car sharing company based in Singapore that is disrupting the mobility market for trips greater than 1 hour. We do that by building a connected car ecosystem which brings people who value flexible & affordable access to cars together with people who own cars & are willing to rent.

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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

Deputy Editor

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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Malaysia's best road trips take in rainforests, beaches and more

Feb 21, 2022 • 11 min read

Kuala Lumpur is the start point for thrilling drives to colonial townships, Malay cities and jungle outposts © Getty Images / EyeEm / Rosley Majid

With a wide-reaching bus system and fast trains whizzing across the country from the capital, Kuala Lumpur, it's easy to explore Malaysia without ever stepping inside a car. But exploring with your own wheels opens up a whole world of unexplored small towns, former colonial hamlets, misty mountains, forgotten lakes and viridian rainforests.

Most Malaysian roads are well maintained and perfectly paved – even in the remoter corners of the country – so exploring the country with a hire car is a real no-brainer. The majority of travelers can fly in, rent a car with a home license for 90 days, making for easy road trips across this country of beaches, jungles and historic cities.

To get you on the road, here are the eight best road trips in Malaysia.

The great West Coast crawl

Best scenic drive.

Kuala Lumpur–Penang; 249 miles (400km); allow 6 days

Skip the busy E1 highway north of Kuala Lumpur and trace the less-traveled west coast on Route 5 via a string of often missed towns such as riverside Kuala Selangor (home to the historic Bukit Malawati fort) and rural Sekinchan . Pass through endless paddy fields and veer inland to Teluk Intan via Sabak to marvel at the Menara Condong , Asia’s own version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Route 5 snakes back to the coast via Sitiawan and Lumut, where frequent ferries leave to Pulau Pangkor , home to flocks of hornbills, boat-making workshops and peaceful jungle-backed coves.

Continuing north, Route 60 stays glued to the sea, skirting Segari’s turtle conservation center and the beaches of Pantai Remis, a hub for Sino-Malay food. Up next is the unmissable lake town of Taiping , voted the third most sustainable city in the world in 2019, from where it’s a 15-minutes detour to mangrove boat rides and fresh seafood in Kuala Sepetang.

Take a left turn along the A190 at the Simpang Empat Semanggol turnoff and time travel back to colonial Malaya in the fishing town of Kuala Kurau. Branch off to nearby Kuala Gula, home to Malaysia’s biggest bird sanctuary and the Hua Seng Keng temple, a life-sized depiction of the ghoulish layers of Buddhist Hell.

Make one last stop in Parit Buntar to buy a bag of much-loved Guan Hiang biscuits (and take an evening firefly cruise in nearby Nibong Tebal, if time allows). To finish up, cross to Penang island by whizzing over the 15 mile (24km) Second Bridge to the southern beaches of Permatang Damar Laut, facing the island’s most scenic bay. Traipse up to historic George Town to finish off with a spectacular street food dinner.

East Coast road trip 

Best for beaches and islands.

Kota Bahru–Kuantan or Pekan; 230 miles (370km); allow 4 days

This classic coastal ride packs a punch, with splendid turquoise-ringed islands, minaret-studded river estuaries and cultural surprises along the fringes of Peninsular Malaysia’s most devoutly Islamic states. Before you leave Kota Bharu , Kelantan’s conservative capital, cruise 12.5 miles (20km) north to check out the group of curious Sino-Thai temples dotting the countryside around Tumpat, gateway to Thailand ’s troubled southern province of Narathiwat. Wat Mai Suwan Kiri (Dragon Boat Temple) is particularly striking. 

Start by the journey south by following the coast. A string of wide, empty beaches rolls all the way to Kuala Terengganu and Marang, and some of Malaysia’s most gorgeous islands – Pulau Perhentian , Pulau Redang and Pulau Kapas – are just a short boat ride away. The easiest island for a day trip is Pulau Perhentian, served by regular fast boats from Kuala Besut.

Route 3 hugs the shoreline as it plunges south past forgotten coves (stop to admire the imposing twin boulders at the mouth of Kemasik Beach) to reach the surf playground of Cherating . As you roll into Kuantan , the pace of life gets a tad faster; a sunset stroll at lively Pantai Teluk Cempedak and dinner at its busy food court are must-dos. To extend the trip, head 25 miles (40km) south to Pekan, with its unique collection of aristocratic Malay architecture.

The jungle drive

Best for families.

Penang–Kuala Lumpur; 434 miles (700km); allow 10 days

Start in Penang and see how quickly Malaysia’s urban surge gives way to the drowsy rhythms of the remote settlements dotted around the country’s mountainous and jungly interior. Beginning in George Town ’s incensed-wafted colonial center, drive across Kedah state to Lenggong, perhaps Malaysia’s least-known Unesco World Heritage Site . Hollowed out by a meteorite impact, this little-explored valley boasts a cluster of prehistoric sites and caves dating back 1.83 million years.

Continue to Tasik Temenggor, a man-made lake offering charming houseboat stays and easy access to Royal Belum State Park , one of the last remaining habitats for the critically endangered Malayan tiger. Route 4 keeps climbing across the 6890ft (2100m) Titiwangsa Range before plunging via Jeli to Dabong, where Gunung Stong State Forest Park and the deep limestone cave complex of Gua Ikan make for perfect pit-stops.

Swing by Gua Musang to reach blissful Pulai, a remote Chinese Hakka community that was only reached by a tarmac road in 1978. Its sloshing river is backed by rows of limestone karst pinnacles reminiscent of China’s Guilin .

Before you reach sleepy Jerantut, the main gateway to the jungle wonders of Taman Negara, there’s more caving and hiking at Merapoh and a chance to encounter the leftovers of British colonial rule in Kuala Lipis, once an important stop for Malaysia’s discontinued Jungle Railway. Spend at least a day hiking in Taman Negara (or exploring by boat), and then drive towards the capital, stopping for a taste of spiky durian at Temerloh or jumbo-sized encounters at Kuala Gandah’s elephant sanctuary .

The final ascent over cloud-enshrouded peaks on the Karak Highway is best broken either at the casinos and theme parks of the Genting Highlands , or with a glamping stay in the quaint riverside village of Janda Baik. Wrap up with a well-deserved dose of shopping and modernity at Kuala Lumpur’s Suria KLCC mall, and pay your respects to the 140ft (43m) golden statue of Lord Murugan fronting the 272 rainbow-colored steps that lead to the Hindu shrines of the Batu Caves .

Southern Malaysian crawl

Best for food and culture.

Kuala Lumpur–Johor Bahru; 318 miles (512km); allow 5 days

Leave the bustle of the capital behind to experience sand, culture and nature on both sides of the peninsula. Start by driving down the southwestern coast, taking in the beach resort of Port Dickson and the former Dutch colonial outpost (and fusion food hub) of Melaka , now a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Before cutting across the peninsula to Mersing – the main ferry port for wild and lovely Pulau Tioman – try a smorgasbord of Chinese and Malay food in Muar, the diminutive royal city of Johor state, and take a pit stop in offbeat Kluang to hike to the scenic summit of Gunung Lambak.

With a couple of extra days, consider the short detour north to Bekok and the waterfalls and villages of Endau-Rompin National Park, home to many communities of Orang Asli – literally, "first peoples." Driving south from Mersing, the southeastern coast curves to reach the swanky beach resorts of Desaru, famed for a sandbar that becomes a 'sky mirror' at low tide. It’s just a short drive to sprawling Johor Bahru , Malaysia’s southernmost city, which rises just across the strait from futuristic Singapore .

Sarawak explorer

Best for wildlife and indigenous culture.

Kuching–Miri; 466 miles (750km); allow 6 days

Experience amazing wildlife, indigenous Dayak culture and lush coastal scenery by driving a considerable section of the Pan Borneo Highway. Before you leave Kuching , pay a visit to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre for encounters with rescued orangutans (come for feeding time at 9am and 3pm daily), then drive inland past low, forested hills and ramshackle roadside settlements to Salcra junction. A short detour to Lubuk Hantu leads to Batang Ai National Park , an artificial lake teeming with wildlife and ringed by Iban longhouses.

Grab some juicy pineapples as you pass through quaint Sarikei before reaching the riverport of Sibu, where delicious Teochew cuisine pairs well with trips to 18th-century longhouses in nearby Bawang Assan. Join the coast at Mukah , the main settlement of the seafaring Melanau people, and consider an overnight stop at the superb Lamin Dana , a boutique cultural lodge preserving local heritage in Kampung Tellian.

The quiet glare of the South China Sea will shimmer on your windshield until you reach oil-rich Bintulu, where Pantai Tanjung Batu is a good spot to tuck your toes into the sand. Head northeast of the city to Similajau National Park for jungle hikes before hitting the road again towards Miri .

The staggering limestone caves of Niah National Park are a must-stop along the way; inhabited for nearly 40 millennia, they contain some of Southeast Asia’s oldest human bones. After a day trip to Lambir Hills National Park south of Miri, end this epic drive at sunset on Canada Hill – the site of the city’s first oil well – and enjoy views over the city’s sprawling coastline.

Kelabit Highland’s Logging Track

Best extreme road trip.

Miri–Bario; 155 miles (250km); 10–14 hours

Almost everyone takes the thrilling Twin Otter flight from Miri to reach Bario, principal township of the fascinating Kelabit Highlands, an indigenous heartland straddling the border between Sarawak and Indonesian Kalimantan . However, a few hardy adventurers access the highlands by driving 4x4 vehicles along the rough and muddy logging track that winds from Miri into upper Sarawak’s wild interior.

Snaking through endless palm oil plantations – a sad reminder of Malaysia’s problematic logging issues –  this drive will rattle your bones at every turn for 12 long hours before you finally rumble into the very Catholic village of Bario, where lingering longhouses are a reminder of waning tribal lifestyles.

Classic Sabah crossing

Best coast-to-coast road trip.

Kota Kinabalu–Sandakan; 200 miles (325km); allow 5 days

Take your leave of Kota Kinabalu ’s night markets and outlying islands and head west towards 13,435ft (4095m) Mt Kinabalu , Malaysia’s highest peak. Almost everyone makes the two-day, one-night trek to the summit, but you can also check the pulse of Sabah’s indigenous art scene at the Living Arts Center in charming riverside Tamparuli, and meet the woodcut artists of the Pangrok Sulap collective in Ranau before bunking down in alpine-like Kundasang.

Leaving the mountains behind, cut through the heart of Sabah, skirting small towns and ever-present palm oil plantations to the Sukau junction, where a worthy detour on the Kinabatangan River promises thrilling wildlife spotting by boat and atmospheric riverside accommodation. Roll on to Sepilok, with its world-renown orangutan and sun bear sanctuaries. A few more miles will take you to slow-paced, multicultural Sandakan and its bay filled with WWII history and fresh seafood.

Sabah by the backdoor 

Best offbeat road trip.

Lahad Datu–Kota Kinabalu; 350 miles (564km); allow 7 days

To encounter some of Borneo’s most impressive rainforests, marine life and indigenous culture, take off from the coastal town Lahad Datu , beginning in either the Danum Valley Conservation Area or the Tabin Wildlife Reserve . Drive across the palm-strewn coast to the ugly duckling town of Semporna , the jump-off point for paradise islands such as Mabul, Kapalai and protected Sipadan, one of the world’s best dive sites.

Back on land, try Tawau ’s deserted beaches and follow nature trails at Tawau Hills Park before setting out for a lonesome drive across Sabah’s hilly interior to Orou Sapulot , an important hub for the Murut people, and the town of Keningau at the bottom of the flower-studded Crocker Range. End at Kota Kinabalu’s busy seafront and glitzy shopping malls, after one more stop in Tambunan, access point for 8668ft (2642m) Mount Trusmadi, Sabah’s second-highest peak. 

Tips for driving in Malaysia

Malaysia drives on the left, like the UK, and citizens of the 54 countries in the Commonwealth can rent a car using their home driving licenses for up to 90 days (other nationals will also need to carry an International Driving Permit).

To access any toll road in Malaysia, including the bridges leading to Penang island, you'll need to pay with a rechargeable Touch’n’Go card that is only issued to Malaysians. Ask your rental company for one if you plan on driving any stretch of the North-South Expressway (Route E1) or the Karak Highway connecting Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan. Most other roads are well paved and toll-free.

The countryside is relatively quiet, but when driving in cities, be prepared for drivers flouting traffic rules, especially in Penang, whose erratic traffic is hard for even Malaysians coming from other states to cope with. Kuala Lumpur's traffic system is also bewildering for first-timers. On weekdays, traffic jams are the norm in most Malaysian cities; Saturdays are usually quieter than Sundays.

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Three-day Melaka road trip itinerary with money-saving tips and hidden gems

MELAKA – Mention Melaka, and most people in Singapore would have an idea of what to expect.

Kitschy Jonker Street, the iconic red buildings of Dutch Square and chicken rice balls that most agree are overhyped, yet manage to draw snaking queues in the afternoon sun.

Getting there, however, can be an adventure in itself if you skip the coach ride and do the four-hour drive to the small Malaysian town. Seasoned drivers going non-stop may be able to whizz there in three hours, but it is more enjoyable to break up the journey with pit stops and a co-driver who can help with navigation and take turns behind the wheel. 

For this, I rope in TikTok content creator Nicole Chen (@lielnicole on TikTok and Instagram), 24, who also runs eyelash salon Cuuul.sg. It is our first time driving in Malaysia and, despite the cautionary tales from friends and family, we find the journey manageable.

Other drivers are friendly and, dare we say it, more patient than those in Singapore. Go at a pace you are comfortable with and enjoy the drive.

Stretching from Muar’s otah trail to the good eats in laid-back Batu Pahat, here is a three-day road trip itinerary for your next long weekend. 

Day one: Hit the otah trail in Muar

Start bright and early to head across the Causeway. Private-hire drivers who spoke to The Straits Times say traffic on weekday mornings usually starts building up by about 8 to 9am. Once you are across, it takes about three hours to get to Muar.

The small coastal town is best known for its otah, and a quick Google search will throw up some of the most popular outlets in town. Look for Xiao Mei Famous Muar Otak-Otak ( str.sg/wjy4 ) or Otak-Otak Cheng Boi ( str.sg/wjyo ). Take along a cooler bag to buy blocks of frozen otah paste.

If you do not want to drive around, head to Jalan Haji Abu, where multiple otah vendors hawk from pushcarts near Kim San Public Cooked Food Market ( str.sg/wjyU ).

The texture, spice and flavour vary from stall to stall, so sample a few to find your favourite. My group of four agree that we like the fish otah from Nice Food Otak-Otak best. Look for the stall with the red banner. Sticks of otah cost between 80 Malaysian sen (24 Singapore cents) and RM1.

Other vendors selling oyster omelette, wonton mee and pastries line the same street, which feels like a more laid-back version of Penang or Ipoh. 

Meander along mural-lined lanes nearby. These can be found in almost every Malaysian town, but along Muar’s quiet streets, you do not have to feel embarrassed about striking a pose with a long queue of people watching. Search for Muar Cultural Walk and Muar Street Art on Google Maps.

From Muar, Melaka is about an hour away. Many affordable boutique hotels are located in and around the city centre, and we stay at the industrial-chic Rosa Malacca ( str.sg/wjy5 ), which costs $128 a night for a deluxe room with a king-size bed and courtyard view.

For dinner, head to the string of seafood restaurants along the coast.

The pepper crabs (two for RM120) at Terraces Restaurant (Stall Number 1, 8 Jalan Daranjo, Perkampungan Portugis), coated with a blend of black and white pepper, are clean-tasting and allow the sweet, dense crab meat to shine.

Do get the Portuguese-style fish (RM52 for a 650g fish), cooked in a banana leaf and slathered with a punchy chilli sauce that begs to be mopped up with rice. 

Pro tip: If you do not have a car, or would rather not drive your own, taking a public bus or train to Johor Bahru and renting one there is the most economical option. We pay $323 to rent a sport utility vehicle (SUV) from Malaysian company Hawk Rent A Car ( str.sg/w9ii ) on Klook for three days, including full insurance coverage.

An entry-level sedan from rental company Hertz, rented from Singapore for the same duration, would cost about $612. This includes similar insurance coverage and a daily surcharge of $55 for trips to Malaysia. 

Note that Malaysian car models are common when renting cars from Johor – we choose a Honda B-RV or similar SUV, and receive a Perodua Aruz. It is spacious enough for four, though the steering feels light when driving above 100kmh and its brakes are not the most sensitive. Still, we get to our destination and back safely.

Day two: Melaka adventure

What is a holiday without a bit of thrill? Head to Skytrex Adventure Melaka (from $21, str.sg/wjyT ) to wobble across rope courses built amid the trees in Melaka Botanical Garden.

Three courses are available, from the family-friendly Little Dino to the advanced-level Extreme Warrior. Hearts in our mouths, we embark on the latter – a 35-obstacle behemoth of a course that takes three hours to complete. 

The obstacles grow progressively higher and more difficult, but there is no time to be afraid when you are hanging on a pole and swinging wildly, or attempting to ride a bicycle suspended on a tightrope 70m above the ground. 

Ziplines through the trees are the reward, and we fly through at least 10 of them. If it gets too much, there are “chicken exits” built throughout the course. You may wind up weak-kneed and with jelly arms at the end, but the sense of satisfaction is unbeatable. 

Take the rest of the day easy by wandering through the heart of Melaka. 

Replenish your energy with hearty burgers at The Baboon House ( www.instagram.com/thebaboonhouse ). Try the Aloha lamb burger (RM35), which comes with double patties, bacon and pineapple. There is an extensive selection of drinks. If you do not know where to start, go for the refreshing, housemade roselle-lavender kefir (RM13.80).

If you enjoy shopping, there are plenty of trinkets to buy. Pick up ceramics from The Clay House ( str.sg/wjyG ), which also runs pottery classes.

You can also stop by Mamee Jonker House ( mameejonkerhouse.com ), a concept store that showcases the well-loved noodle snack. The first Mamee factory was founded in Melaka in 1971 and the brand’s shaggy blue mascot has become the city’s unofficial icon. Families will enjoy the Noodle Doodle activity (RM15), where you can design your own cup noodles and watch it being made on a conveyor belt.

Head to liquor store Sin Hiap Hin (5 Kampung Jawa) before it gets dark – unlike most bars, this one keeps to office hours. The family-run joint dates back to the 1920s and serves an array of traditional liquor. 

Try Malaysian-made rice wine in flavours such as rose, lychee, pandan and coffee, all of them fragrant and strong. Shots are sold in pairs for RM10 and you can top them up with ice or add a splash of tonic water for a refreshing cocktail. 

Across the street, craft cocktail bar Budi ( facebook.com/BUDI.Melaka ) also opens early. Located above coffee roaster and cafe Sin See Tai, drinks at the speakeasy-style bar are bold and imaginative.

The vegetable-forward menu recasts unpopular veggies such as bitter gourd and eggplant as cocktails. Sounds insane? Founder Phoa Tai Yong admits that some drinks are polarising. 

But my group of four picks the velvety smooth Terung (RM50) as our favourite. With charred eggplant, dark rum, pandan and egg white, and garnished with smoky-sweet housemade eggplant chips, it goes down dangerously easy.

Another surprise is the Lada (RM55), which includes roasted red peppers, tequila and chilli liqueur. It is far mellower than one would expect a tequila cocktail to be. 

If you have time for only one Peranakan meal in Melaka, have it at Peranakan Mansion (108 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock), where the shophouse’s opulent interiors are reminiscent of the mahjong scene in the 2018 movie, Crazy Rich Asians. 

We meet the head chef, who, in old-school Peranakan fashion, waves away our choices (“You can get chicken curry anywhere, no need to have it here”) and instead puts together a menu of the restaurant’s specialities. 

His selection is spot-on. Get the chilli garam pork (RM28), sambal sotong (RM35), eggplant with shrimp paste (RM18), assam fish (RM85) and pai tee (RM15) – you will not be disappointed. Our meal for four, including tea and dessert, comes to $87, a steal for the quality and setting.

Pro tip: The roads in the Melaka city centre are narrow and parking is scarce. Leave your car at the hotel and book a Grab ride instead, especially if you are planning to drink. Short hops within the city cost between RM7 and RM10.

Day three: Batu Pahat stopover

Start your day with a sweet Melaka breakfast. The Daily Fix Cafe ( facebook.com/thedailyfixcafe ) is known for its pancakes and draws a queue even before it opens.

If you have time to spare, explore Melaka over two days at a more leisurely pace. Make the time to meander and be surprised. You may, for instance, befriend a pair of pet tortoises that their owners take for regular walks. Or stop for ondeh-ondeh, made fresh along the street and bursting with liquid gula melaka.

Otherwise, do the two-hour drive to Batu Pahat and have lunch at Daddy Village ( daddyvillage.com.my ), a home-style family-run restaurant. Order the steamed otah (RM15), nasi lemak with blue pea rice (RM10) and kerabu ikan bilis fruit salad (RM18).

A few doors down, the egg tarts (RM3) at Amore Bakery are fragrant and buttery. But skip the breads, which are dense in texture and thin on fillings compared with those from popular Malaysian chain Lavender. 

Make one last pit stop to shop at Johor Premium Outlets ( str.sg/wjyg ), about 45 minutes from Woodlands Checkpoint. With palm trees and open plazas like the ones in North America, it feels a world away.

Do not miss athleisure brand Lululemon, which offers discounts of 20 to 40 per cent at its outlet. Unlike the sales rack in many Singapore stores, there is a good selection of sizes and colours.

Or pick up bags and pouches from American designer brand Kate Spade – there are discounts of 45 to 65 per cent depending on the number of items purchased. 

One last perk of a road trip? You do not need to be concerned about baggage limits. Just load up your car boot, and make the journey home. 

Pro tip: One advantage of renting a Malaysian-registered car is subsidised petrol prices. During our trip, FuelSave 95 at Shell cost an estimated RM2.05 a litre while V-Power 97, available to foreign-registered vehicles, cost RM3.95 a litre. Fill up the tank before returning your rental car to avoid hefty fuel surcharges.

• Travel tips

Stock up on hand sanitiser, wet wipes and tissues for the journey. When you pick up your rental car, wipe down high-touch points such as the steering wheel, gearstick, hand brake and door handles.

You will need a Touch ‘n Go card to pay for tolls, though these cards, typically sold at petrol kiosks in Malaysia, are in short supply. They usually cost between $3 and $10 depending on where they are purchased, though resellers on online platforms Shopee and Carousell are now asking for $22 to $40 a card. Alternatively, borrow one from a friend, and check that it is still valid before your trip.

Download offline maps for navigation in case mobile data is patchy along the road. Go to str.sg/wjyM for instructions.

If you do not wish to drive, hire a private car and driver who can take you to and around Malaysia. A one-way transfer from Singapore to Melaka starts at $400 ( str.sg/wjyQ ) and you can top up for a half- or full-day rental within Malaysia.

• Streetwise is a series on smart travel tips. For more travel stories, go to str.sg/travel.
• This story is partially sponsored by Klook. 

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10 underrated road trip destinations in Malaysia from Singapore with scenic natural wonders, delicious eats & more

As Singaporeans, many of us are no strangers to weekend getaways to popular destinations like Johor Bahru and Cameron Highlands . But why not shake things up with these 10 hidden gems that have long been overshadowed by the likes of Penang and Malacca , and try going on these road trips in Malaysia that will offer you a different experience?

From delicious food to stunning natural sights, there’ll be plenty to see and do at each and every one of these exciting destinations! 

1. Muar, Johor

First up on the list is every foodie’s favourite, the Royal City of Johor, Muar . 

The name Glutton Street alone is bound to pique your interest. As the oldest culinary attraction in Muar, this street is known for its otak otak , fried oysters , pork satay , and more. 

The deep, aromatic flavours of Sai Kee’s 434 coffee is also something you can’t miss. ZZ Satay Warisan also offers incredible satay for breakfast — it feels as though everyone in this city is crazy about food.

For those looking to have a taste of the city’s history and culture, how about going down the Muar Cultural Walk where rows and rows of murals make for Instagram-worthy photos? At night, the street becomes even busier with attractive performances, cultural shows and street vendors.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 2 hours 15 minutes

2. Kuala Rompin, Pahang

Kuala Rompin is a nature retreat with an all-in-one package. Being so close to the river, sea and rainforests, you can visit friendly Orang Asli villages , gorge on the freshest seafood , admire the picturesque “mirror” Lanjut Beach and marvel at the ethereal blue lake, Tasik Biru .

Most notably, it is located right at the borders of Malaysia’s second largest national park, the Endau-Rompin National Park . It is home to some of the oldest rainforests in the world, as well as majestic waterfalls , serving as the perfect place for urbanites looking to immerse themselves in nature.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 2 hour 45 minutes

3. Bentong, Pahang

Rather than Genting , how about visiting its underrated neighbour that has hot springs, a stunning waterfall and serene forest retreats? The Bentong Hot Springs , Chamang Waterfall , Kechara Forest Retreat and Lentang Forest Recreational Park is your go-to for a relaxing trip.

If you happen to be there on Saturday, check out Bentong Walk , a night market in a historic district featuring live performances and captivating art.

Surprisingly, Bentong also has a Japanese Village that has kimonos for rent, a teahouse and Tatami Spa!

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 4 hours 50 minutes

4. Sekinchan, Selangor

Sekinchan can fulfil all your dreams of feeling like a drama protagonist — run through the endless paddy fields with the blue sky at the back and listen to the sound of the rice plants rustling in the wind.

But make sure to visit before the harvesting seasons, ideally during mid-March to May and during mid-September to November , or else you won’t be seeing lush green fields but empty barren ones instead.

Don’t forget to make a wish at the Sekinchan Wishing Tree , or chill at the Pantai Redang Beach before touring the Bagan Fishing Village for some tasty seafood.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 20 minutes

5. Kuala Selangor, Selangor

Road trips in Malaysia can’t do without the dreamy Kuala Selangor . This seaside town is best appreciated at night, when you can go hunting for fireflies and watch them light up the night sky. It is also only at night when you can witness the mesmerising “ Blue Tears ” as Selangor River glows in splendid blue hues.

The magic continues with Sky Mirror where shallow waters become a reflective surface, mirroring the sky and creating illusions of walking on water.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours

6. Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor

Locals call it the KKB, but please do not mistake this town for a certain crude local slang. Kuala Kubu Bharu is a popular weekend spot that is known for outdoor activities and adventure amongst Kuala Lumpur locals.

Boasting incredible views of rolling hills and waters from the summit of Bukit Kutu and at the Sungai Selangor Dam , it offers an ideal escape from the bustling cities. Nature-lovers looking for some exercise can take on one of the many waterfall hiking trails at Kuala Kubu Bharu , like the Lata Medang Waterfall and Chilling Waterfall trails.

If lazing around in the sun sounds like a better option, picnic at Taman Tasik Millennium and enjoy views of the lake and hills in comfort.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 10 minutes

7. Sungai Lembing, Pahang

Sungai Lembing is an old tin mining town that has turned into a haven for outdoor and nature enthusiasts. Like Kuala Kubu Bharu, Sungai Lembing is also home to beautiful waterfalls and panoramic sights — they literally have Bukit Panorama and Sunrise Hill , titular hills that live up to their very names.

The Rainbow Waterfall and Berkelah Waterfalls ( it has seven tiers! ) are definitely not to be missed, as well as this hidden Hindu cave temple with a gigantic nine metre long Buddha statue in Gua Charas , tucked away in a grand limestone massif more than 400 million years old.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 30 minutes

8. Gopeng, Perak

Also a former tin mining town, Gopeng has caves that have spelunking enthusiasts lining up at their doorstep. Similar to Gua Charas, Gua Tempurung is also around 400 million years old, although it is one of the longest caves in Malaysia with three enormous chambers and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Want something brighter on your itinerary? Why not pay a visit to Cameron Highlands’ cousin, the Gaharu Tea Valley ? It’s less misty, and you can get a clear view of the majestic mountains and verdant tea plantations.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 51 minutes

9. Taiping, Perak 

Taiping is constantly overshadowed by Ipoh even though it is the second largest city in Perak. Rich with colonial history and architecture, it’s the perfect destination for history buffs. They have the oldest museum ( Perak Museum ), the oldest hill resort ( Bukit Larut ), the oldest zoo in Malaysia ( Taiping Zoo ) and markets that date back hundreds of years ago.

Another of their most famous attractions is the Taiping Lake Gardens , which is Malaysia’s first park! 

Not to mention, Taiping is only an hour away from a spectacular waterfall, the Lata Titi Dua , also known as Air Terjun Sungai Tebing Tinggi ( don’t get it confused with Lata Tebing Tinggi which is also in northern Perak ). Road trips in Malaysia

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 6 hours 52 minutes

10. Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu 

While this destination might be the furthest, it undoubtedly is the most rewarding, with unparalleled scenic views and unique island hopping opportunities. The allure of road trips in Malaysia lies in being able to see sights that can’t be found in Singapore. Drive along Federal Road 3 which traces the coastline, offering you incredible coastal views throughout the entirety of your road trip.

You’ll be spoilt for choice no matter whether you’re exploring the city or the outdoors. Enter the iconic Crystal Mosque located at the Islamic Heritage Park , which is made out of steel, glass and of course, crystals . Browse through exotic ingredients at the Central Market and learn about the Chinese community at Teck Soon Cultural House .

You can take the ferry out to various islands like Redang Island with its white sandy beaches, snorkel at the Perhentian Islands , or explore the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, Kenyir Lake .

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 7 hours

Embark on a new flight-free experience and start packing for these road trips across Malaysia!

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SingaporeMotherhood | Family Fun

Best Family Road Trip Destinations from Singapore to Malaysia

By Cherie Foo

Want to go on a last-minute holiday but don’t want the hassle of organising flights? Take a road trip to Malaysia. Assuming you’re driving from Singapore, you have plenty of options to choose from – including Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, and Johor. Our handy guide tells you how to get to each of them, and where to stay. We’ve also included family-friendly attractions that you shouldn’t miss. Get the kids to pack their bags… it’s time for a road trip!

Malacca is just a four-hour drive from Singapore, the perfect length of time for a first-time family road trip. This lively coastal town used to be occupied by the Dutch, which is why many of their buildings look distinctively European. Even if your kids aren’t old enough to appreciate history, they’ll still be impressed at the fire-engine red Christ Church, which was built using bricks shipped over all the way from the Netherlands. Of course, there’s plenty of delicious local food to keep every Singaporean appetite satiated.

Jonker Street: A road trip to Malacca is not complete without a stroll down Jonker Street. Lined with restaurants, eateries and shops selling souvenirs and knick-knacks, there’s also a night market from Friday to Sunday evenings. When you’re here, check out Mamee Jonker House, a one-of-a-kind Mamee Café that serves dishes revolving around – guess what? – Mamee noodles! Adults can try their hand at customising their very own instant noodles, while little ones can join in the Mamee Monster DIY workshop, and learn how to make noodles from scratch.

Melaka Wonderland: This water park features 16 attractions including the Big Wave pool, the Adventure Island, Anaconda Twist, The Pendulum, and a small dinosaur park. If your kids are still energetic and raring to go after taking on the water park, Melaka Bird Park is just next door!

A’Famosa Resort

A’Famosa is an integrated resort that features a hotel, villas, theme parks and more. The kids won’t be able to get enough of the resort’s Safari Wonderland and Old West. Then there’s their Water Park, which is the largest in Malaysia. Want to shop? Check out Freeport A’Famosa, an outlet mall with over 70 fashion, sport and accessories brands laid out in an open air mall complete with fountains, carousel and even a windmill.

The Settlement Hotel

This swanky hotel used to house a 1960s government office so you’ll be staying in a real slice of history. Apart from a 45-room residence block, the hotel also has four villas with spacious gardens and lawns and five traditional Malay villas, one of which houses their spa facility. There’s complimentary shuttle service to Jonker Street and the Portuguese Settlement as well.

How to drive to Malacca:

The most efficient way to get to Malacca is via the North-South Expressway (NSE). Watch out for the exit at Plaza Tol Ayer Keroh. If you need to take a break, there are several Rest and Service Areas (RSAs) at Gelang Patah, Machap, Pagoh, and Ayer Keroh, where you can grab a bite and fill up your tank. 

2: Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is an obvious choice for a quick and easy road trip if you’re a city lover. There’s a smorgasbord of good food to be had here, and plenty of attractions to keep kids occupied.

District 21: This indoor theme park at IOI City Mall has plenty of exciting obstacles and rides that will thrill kids of all ages. Younger ones can head for the tamer activities (such as the launch pad, carousel, tubby ride, and pedal go-kart) while older kids go for the sky trail, where they’ll have to navigate a wobbly rope bridge, balance on narrow planks and traverse a series of oil drums — all up in the air.

View this post on Instagram Here comes weekend again! Enjoy your weekend with your family at Sunway Lagoon and Have Your Best Day Ever with us! Grab your tickets at sunwaylagoon.com/promotions 🛒 now! Awesome 📸 by @rachealkwacz #BestDayEver #SunwayLagoonMY A post shared by Sunway Lagoon Malaysia (@sunwaylagoonmalaysia) on Apr 12, 2019 at 7:57pm PDT

Sunway Lagoon:  One of the best-known theme parks in Malaysia, this is just a short drive away from KL’s city centre. There are six different areas, including a Wild Wild West themed amusement park, a haunted house, an Extreme Park, a Water Park, a Wildlife Park and a Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon. There’s too much to cover in a day so pick your attractions carefully. Older ones might enjoy the Scream Park (a huge haunted house with zombies) and the Extreme Park (where you can take part in activities such as bungy-jumping, go karting and ziplining), but these may be too adventurous for younger children.

(See also: A Kid-Friendly Guide to Sunway Lagoon )

KLCC: This is where you’ll find the famous Petronas Towers. The KL Aquarium and the excellent Petrosains Discovery Centre are also located here. Visit them earlier in the day, then head to the KLCC playground and water park as the sun starts to set. This gigantic playground with a shallow wading pool and waterfall is massively popular with kids of all ages.

PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur

If you need to accommodate a large family, the PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur has spacious family suites that span up to 62 square metres. The hotel comes with all the usual bells and whistles, including a gorgeous pool. Kids under 12 stay free when they use existing beds.

Ramada Plaza Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a more affordable option? Try the Ramada Plaza Kuala Lumpur, a four-star hotel in KL’s Mid-valley district. Facilities include outdoor and indoor swimming pools. Plus, one child under the age of 12 stays free if using existing bedding.

How to drive to KL:

Take the Second Link at Tuas, then follow the signs to KL. From there, it depends on where you are going to. If you’re heading to Bangsar, take the “Bangsar” exit on the New Pantai Expressway once you hit the Sungei Besi toll. RSEs along the way include Machap, Pagoh, Ayer Keroh, and Seremban. Your journey to KL should take approximately five hours, but you might be stuck in heavy traffic once you reach the city.

3: Cameron Highlands

If your kids are clamouring to go somewhere cold, but you can’t afford to take that many days of leave (and splurge on expensive plane tickets), bring them on a road trip to Cameron Highlands!

Strawberry farms

Fun fact: Cameron Highlands is the only place in Malaysia which has strawberry farms. Popular strawberry farms in Cameron Highlands include: Big Red Strawberry, Strawberry Farm Kea, Healthy Strawberry Farm, and Kok Lim Strawberry Farm.

Honey farms

You’d be surprised – the honey farms in Cameron Highlands can make for unexpectedly educational visits. Most have tours and they’ll even walk you through the entire life cycle of the bee, so the kids leave with insights about how honey is made. Popular honey farms here include: Cameron Tringkap Bee Farm, Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm, and Highlands Apiary Farm.

Time Tunnel

Time Tunnel is the first ever memorabilia museum in Malaysia. It aims to preserve the “historical memory and cultural heritage” of Cameron Highlands. Here, you’ll find 1,000-plus exhibits spread out over two levels, from the private collection of See Kok Shan, a collector who grew up in Cameron Highlands.

As you stroll through the exhibits and reminisce about the past, the kids can immerse themselves in the different “sets” that are laid out, complete with props. They’ll be able to role-play as a hairdresser in a salon, pretend to serve drinks behind an old-school drinks cart, and even try their hand at some vintage games. Talk about a blast from the past!

Cameron Highlands Resort

This colonial hotel and boutique hill retreat is perched 1,500 metres above sea level. Serene and peaceful, it offers stunning views of tea plantations and rolling hills. All rooms and suites have gorgeous four-poster beds, polished teak furniture, and luxurious silk fabrics. The two-bedroom suite and signature suite can accommodate four, and cots are available upon request.

Moonriver Lodge

Moonriver Lodge is a family farmstay within the picturesque mountains of Sigar Highlands. There are plenty of fun activities here – a gardening programme to learn how food is grown on-site, a trek to see the Rafflesia Kerrii, the second largest flower in the world, harvesting organic vegetables, fruits and herbs from their kitchen garden, and even helping the staff prepare a meal.

Prefer some quiet bonding time with your kids? Laze on a hammock, play board games, or enjoy family karaoke (just remember to bring along your own VCDs or DVDs).

How to drive to Cameron Highlands:

The drive from Singapore to Cameron Highlands takes approximately eight hours so this is a longer road trip. Leave early so that you can reach Cameron Highlands at around 3pm in the afternoon. Take the North-South Expressway (NSE) and exit at either Simpang Pulai or Tapah. The Tapah route involves a three-hour long winding drive up the mountains, so we’d recommend the Simpang Pulai exit, which gives you a shorter and more manageable route.

RSAs along the NSE include Gelang Patah, Machap, Pagoh, Ayer Keroh, Seremban, Dengkil, Rawang, and Tapah. Hop out and use the restrooms, and stop for snacks/lunch at these areas.

4: Johor (Kota Tinggi)

Johor isn’t just for café-hopping and stocking up on groceries – there are also plenty of family-friendly attractions and sites that you can visit on a short road trip here.

Visit (Kota Tinggi):

Kota tinggi firefly park.

The sight of the night sky lit up with fireflies is spectacular – so don’t pass up on your chance to witness this at the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, an easy 15-minute drive from Kota Tinggi’s city centre. You’ll drive through a palm tree plantation and arrive at a tze char restaurant where you can purchase tickets for your boat ride to see the fireflies. While waiting for the boat, kids can explore the mini farm and old-school playground nearby.

The boat sets sail towards the mangroves, where you’ll witness groups of dancing fireflies. Do pay attention to the audio guides; these provide interesting tidbits about the fireflies and the World War II Fortress that you’ll sail past.

Kota Tinggi Waterfalls

Kota Tinggi Waterfalls is one of the best known waterfalls in southern Malaysia. There are actually two waterfalls here – one near the park entrance, and another that can only be accessed via a walkway. If you’re coming with older kids, head for the cement steps – this will take you up the walkway, and from there, you can get to the larger waterfall. Your kids can swim, or rent tubes to float on. For younger kids who aren’t strong swimmers, stick to the waterslides and shallow pools. Alternatively, go on a hike – there are plenty of trails in the area.

Stay (Kota Tinggi):

Kota tinggi rainforest resort.

This family-friendly resort has swimming pools and natural water pools, and activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, paintball, abseiling, and Flying Fox. Guides can be hired to bring you on a trek through the rainforest, or a hike to the nearby Pelapah Waterfall. The resort’s Family Chalet Room can accommodate up to seven adults and one child – if you’re coming with extended family, definitely consider staying here!

How to drive there:

Kota Tinggi is just an hour away from the Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore. To get to Kota Tinggi Town, take the AH2 and AH18 to the Johor Bahru-Kota Tinggi Highway.

(See also:  Why Kid-friendly Colmar Tropicale Should Be Your Next Family Holiday Destination )

5. Johor (Desaru)

Like Kota Tinggi, Desaru is highly accessible (just 2-3 hours away!) for a road trip, and has plenty of fun for the whole family.

Desaru Ostrich Farm

This family-run ostrich farm is one of the largest in Malaysia. Most of the over 200 ostriches are fenced up for safety reasons, but there are two which roam freely. They are tame, so it’s perfectly fine to get up close and personal with them. Take a selfie with them, or pay for your kids to have an ostrich ride. You can also order an ostrich omelette or other ostrich dishes at the stall later. PS: Ostriches are attracted to shiny objects, so avoid wearing any eye-catching jewellery or accessories here.

Desaru Beach

Desaru’s pristine beach is famous. It overlooks the South China Sea, and the shallow portion of the sea extends pretty far out from the beach, making this an ideal spot for families with children to enjoy water play. If your kids are a little older, consider activities such as parasailing, jet-skiing, or a thrilling ride on an inflatable donut. Why not pay a visit to the newly-opened Desaru Coast ?

Desaru Fruit Farm

View this post on Instagram Went to the @desarufruit, and this guy was amused with lemon growing on tree. We spotted many different kinds of fruit trees and there was a mini petting zoo within. Animals always delight the kids, and they were most happy feeding koi fish. . #desarufruitfarm #lemontree #fruitfarm #sgtoddler #sonshine #instakids #shortgetaway #toddlerboy A post shared by Karen (@mumscalling) on Mar 10, 2019 at 12:58am PST

Desaru Fruit Farm has more than fruit – there’s a petting zoo, a paintball arena, and a go-kart and ATV track as well. Walk around by yourself and purchase fruits, or pay for the guided tour to learn more about how over 100 varieties of fruits and herbs are grown. This comes with a complimentary fruit platter. Remember to purchase some fresh fruits to enjoy on the drive back to Singapore!

Stay (Desaru):

Lotus desaru beach resort.

One of the most popular resorts in Desaru, this has apartments as well as more traditional bedrooms and suites. Baby cots and strollers are available for loan. Within the beach resort, there’s a water park, a “High Ropes” obstacle course that’s suitable for children over age 10, pond water rafting, paintball, Flying Fox, kayaking, and jungle trekking activities.

Sand and Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa

This family-friendly resort has a beautiful pool with a swim-up bar, and an air-conditioned gym that’s floating within the pool. The Family Suite Duplex is a comfy, spacious suite that spans two floors. You get your own space (with a luxurious four-poster bed) and kids get a colourful pirate-themed room. Perfect!

Take the same route to Kota Tinggi from the Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore. Then go via the Senai-Desaru Expressway and cut through Johor River to get to Desaru Beach.

Take a Road Trip today!

So you see, there’s no need to head to exotic, far flung locations in order to have fun. Just round up the entire family, hop into the car, and go on a road trip to visit our neighbours up north!

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Itinéraire de mon road trip en Malaisie et à Singapour sur 15 jours

Itinéraire de mon road trip en malaisie et à singapour, 2 semaines en malaisie et à singapour.

Hello les curieux !

Comme tu as pu le voir à travers mes articles de blog, j’ai passé un petit temps en Malaisie et à Singapour . On y est restés 15 jours soit 2 semaines et pour tout te dire on aurait pu ne faire que la Malaisie, mais on a voulu ajouter un nouvel écusson à notre sac à dos de backpackers et découvrir encore un nouveau pays en faisant un road trip à Singapour !

Du coup on a principalement fait la côte ouest, mais de ce qu’on a pu voir c’était déjà une bonne partie ! Cet article sera comme un journal de bord de voyage ! Un nouveau format, donc n’hésite pas à me dire en commentaire si ce format te plaît ! Et tu pourras retrouver un article sur l’ensemble des activités que l’on a pu faire en Malaisie et à Singapour ! Plutôt chouette non ?

Road trip en Malaisie

5 jours à kuala lumpur.

Les 5 premiers jours ont été consacré à Kuala Lumpur . Le premier jour, on est arrivés vers 17h à Kuala Lumpur en Malaisie le temps de passer la douane, de récupérer tous nos bagages, de trouver un taxi (on a d’ailleurs pris un grab, ce qui est l’équivalent d’un uber dans la plupart des pays d’Asie et ça coûte moins cher !) ici on a payé environ 2€ (10RM) jusqu’à notre hôtel.  Une fois sur place on est sorti pour aller manger un bout au centre commercial Times Square .

Le deuxième jour, on a découvert une première partie de Kuala Lumpur en passant par Merdeka square , le marché central et Chinatown .  Le troisième jour, on l’a consacré à un Marathon centre commerciaux ! Il y en a des tonnes à Kuala Lumpur alors on les a tous fait ! Le quatrième jour, on a fait les street art de Jalang Alor , les tours petronas et la tour menara . Enfin, le cinquième jour, on a profité de notre matinée pour aller visiter les batu caves . Un temple hindouiste, mon lieu préféré en Malaisie ! Ensuite décollage pour Cameron Highland ou nous sommes arrivés vers 18h. Le temps d’aller manger et de faire une machine à laver, la journée était terminée !

Retrouve l’article sur Kuala Lumpur ici :  Le top des choses à faire à Kuala Lumpur

Merdeka Square à Kuala Lumpur en Malaisie

2 jours à cameron highland.

Pour tout te dire, tu fais le tour de Cameron Highland en une journée, on a vu les plantations de thé , que j’ai totalement adoré parce que les champs sont immenses et c’est vraiment magnifique ! La Mossy forest et l’ usine de thé boh, pour les amateurs de thé c’est parfait pour faire quelques achats. Tu y retrouveras du thé avec des tonnes de goûts ! On a trouvé la ville sympa puisque ça changeait totalement des grands buildings de Kuala Lumpur ! Là, on était plutôt au milieu de la nature, des forêts et des plantations !

On y est restés deux nuits, donc un jour et demi sur place puisque nous sommes repartis le lendemain vers 14h. On a dormi une nuit dans un Airbnb et la deuxième dans un très bel hôtel ! Ensuite, on est parti en direction de George town ! Le bus met environ 5h entre Cameron Highland et George town . On a du payer un grab en plus parce que le bus nous a déposé à 15 min de notre logement. On est donc arrivé le soir aux alentours de 19h.

Retrouve l’article sur Cameron Higland ici : Visiter Cameron Highland en Malaisie 

2 jours à george town.

On avait beaucoup entendu parlé de George Town , on avait qu’une hâte découvrir cette ville ! Par contre, la température n’a rien à voir avec Cameron Highland ! Ici, il faisait tellement chaud ! Heureusement qu’il y avait des centres commerciaux pour se rafraîchir ! Mais du coup si tu fais le même itinéraire pense à prendre des vêtements pour toutes les saisons ! J’ai acheté un Poncho à Cameron Highland par exemple !

On y est restés deux jours avec un gros programme : Découverte de Chew jetti , le quartier chinois et de little India . Et après ça, recherche de tous les street arts de Georges town , parce que la ville est clairement connue pour ça ! Puis on a fini la journée par la visite du temple bouddhiste Wat Buppharam , qui était vraiment grand et très joli ! J’y ai même fait une prédiction sur mon avenir ! (Mais je te laisse aller découvrir l’article sur George Town pour savoir ce qu’on m’a dit !). Enfin, le lendemain, on a pris un bus qui coûtait 4RM pour aller découvrir le temple Kek lok Si qui est juste immense ! Puis on a repris le bus direction Kuala Lumpur , car le soir on avait un autre bus pour aller à Singapour !! 

Retrouve l’article sur George Town ici : Mes bonnes adresses à George Town

Road trip à singapour.

On prend notre deuxième bus direction Singapour au départ de Kuala Lumpur (au centre commercial le Berjaya times square ). Et tu veux un bon plan ? On a un pris un bus de nuit, comme ça, on a pas besoin de prendre d’hôtel ! Tu vois l’économie ? On a fait ça pour l’aller et le retour ! Ça fait quand même deux nuits d’économisées, et c’est plutôt cool quand tu sais que les prix à Singapour sont clairement pas les mêmes qu’en Malaisie ! Le prix est bien plus cher !

La bas, on a fait chinatown et little India qui sont des quartiers que tu retrouveras un peu partout en Malaisie mais là j’ai adoré le little india de Singapour ! On a aussi vu la mosquée Masjid Sultant et de Haji Lane , le Merlion qui est un incontournable ! C’est une statue avec une tête de lion et un corps de poisson. C’est le symbole de Singapour !

J’ai aussi eu l’occasion de faire un foodelicious pendant une demi journée, le but était de découvrir les spécialités de Singapour et l’expérience était vraiment chouette ! Enfin, garden by the bay qui a été mon coup de cœur de ce road trip en Malaisie et à Singapour parce que c’est un grand parc (il est vraiment immense !) Il y a des fleurs du monde entier, mais surtout des arbres géants au milieu du parc ! Et le soir ils s’illuminent en musique, c’était incroyable ! Je t’invite vraiment à le découvrir dans mes articles car ce lieu est juste magique !

Retrouve les articles sur Singapour ici : Mes aventures à Singapour

Et toi alors ? Tu es déjà allé en Malaisie ou à Singapour ? Écris nous en commentaire ce qui t’a le plus marqué et combien de temps es-tu resté ? 

Marina Bay à Singapour

Épingle cet article sur Pinterest !

Bonjour, combien de jour etes vous restez à Singapour ? Merci

LarevuedeKathleen

Hello ! On est restés deux jours complets sur place, j’ai écrit un article complet sur tout ce que l’on a pu faire

LaFilleDavril

Hello WAOOOUUHHHH C’est juste magnifique ! Belle journée

Haha, c’est vrai que ce sont deux beaux pays, j’ai adoré les découvrir !

Haha, c’est vrai que ce sont deux beaux pays ! J’ai adoré les découvrir !

Je ne suis jamais allée en Malaisie, ni Singapour. Un jour par contre j’espère avoir la chance d’y aller ! Meryl ♡

J’espère que tu en auras l’occasion parce que c’est génial à découvrir !

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• Feb 1, 2019

Malaysia Road Trip - From Coast to Coast

Updated: Apr 13, 2022

#Roadtrip #MINI #Countryman #Malaysia #Bekok #Paloh #Melaka #Portdickson #Sekeping #Serendah #Sekinchan #Cameron #Belum #Kelantan #Penarik #Terengganu #Tanjungjara #Cherating #Kuantan #Mangala #Desaru

4 Wheels, 3 Leeches, 2 Coasts, 1 Trip, and 0 Elephant

I'm a big fan of road trips. Hence, it's not surprising that I've made umpteen drives into Malaysia since I bought my first car some 14 years ago. Looking back and counting, I've driven 40-plus times to Melaka, 13 times to Cameron Highlands, many times to other towns and cities, plus 1 epic trip to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai ( Singapore-Thailand Road Trip ). Not forgetting countless times to many Singaporeans' favourite neighbourhood - Johor Bahru.

Unfortunately in the past decade, it seemed like there had not been any chance to take on a longer road trip into Malaysia beyond a 3D2N window, not until recently. Without hesitation, I quickly charted a 12-day road trip plan for Peninsula Malaysia with the aim of visiting some places I've always wanted to, including staying in the forest retreat of Sekeping Serendah, spotting wild elephants along Gerik Highway, and driving along the entire east coast of the Peninsula from Kelantan to Desaru.

Hotel booking was straightforward and packing my bag was even more so. The most difficult and indecisive part of packing was probably my photo-video equipment. DSLR or mirrorless, which lenses, which point-and-shoot, GoPro, drone, tripod - it was a big headache which system and equipment I should be throwing into my bag. And choosing the right bag(s) was also a part of that complication (equipment list at end of blog).

Being a longer than usual road trip, a quick pre-trip health check for my senior citizen MINI Countryman was done at MCF Auto (https://www.facebook.com/MCFAutoSg/). This is my trustworthy go-to workshop to assure that she is in good health and ready for the 2,000+km marathon.

With (hopefully) everything packed and accommodation booked, I set off and embarked on my most extensive Malaysia road trip to date - a trip where 4 wheels had rolled and gripped through tarmac, mud and sand; where 3 leeches had feasted on me from neck to toe; where sunsets and sunrises were witnessed on 2 coasts on 1 single trip; and a disappointing 0 elephant sighting along the Gerik Highway.

Day 1 Singapore - Bekok - Paloh - Melaka - Port Dickson

Day 2 Port Dickson - Sekeping Serendah Retreats

Day 3 Sekeping Serendah Retreats - Sekinchan

Day 4 Sekinchan - Cameron Highlands

Day 5 Cameron Highlands - Belum Rainforest Resort

Day 6 Belum Rainforest Resort

Day 7 Belum - Bukit Banga - Penarik - Kuala Terengganu - Tanjung Jara

Day 8 Tanjung Jara - Cherating - Mangala Resort & Spa

Day 9 Mangala Resort & Spa

Day 10 Mangala Resort & Spa to Kuantan

Day 11 Kuantan to Desaru

Day 12 Desaru to Singapore

SINGAPORE - BEKOK - PALOH - MELAKA - PORT DICKSON

Timelapse of the rising tide from 3pm to 7pm from my villa's bay window.

PORT DICKSON - SEKEPING SERENDAH

SEKEPING SERENDAH - SEKINCHAN - CAMERON HIGHLANDS

CAMERON HIGHLANDS - BELUM RAINFOREST RESORT

Arriving at Royal Belum, crossing the scenic bridge towards Banding Island over the Temenggor Lake (pardon the background voice from my TomTom GPS, courtesy of Yoda).

BELUM - PENARIK - KUALA TERENGGANU - TANJUNG JARA

ABOVE: Sunrise at Teluk Bidara beach, Tanjung Jara.

MANGALA RESORT & SPA, GAMBANG, KUANTAN

KUANTAN - DESARU

Shall end with a splash... literally, with a closing video of Desaru taken on a previous trip, making splashes on the beautiful Malaysian coast.

Photo/Video Equipment Used:

Panasonic Lumix LX10 (small, light, fast - my main everyday camera)

Sony RX10 III (for bird photography, e.g. catching the hornbills at Belum)

Huawei Mate 20 Pro

Nikon D750 w/ 17-35mm f2.8 and 24-120mm f4

GoPro Hero 7 Black

DJI Mavic Pro

2 X Crumpler Camera Bags

• South East Asia

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Melbourne & Great Ocean Road

hi, may i know how much did u spend on accomodation and food throughout the trip?

Like your itinerary and is planning a similar one for July. Driving along the coastline is interesting, any advice or things to look out for to drive on the sand along the coastline? Eg, the tide times or etc?

Hi Joyce. That's a very nice route and itinerary! But to cover all destinations in 8 days, you'll likely have a 1 night stay at most places. Perhaps with only 1 destination that has 2 nights. Depends on what your interests are and who's coming along with you, it might be a bit tiring for some. Let me know if you need any more info on any of these places. Happy to share my experience and thoughts :)

Awesome road trip the well rounded way. I'm just worried my body couldn't cope.

Had done small distances along west coast till KL. But currently looking at route options in East Coast. Any suggestions up to Cheating?

Thank you! Yes, the long drives can be quite tiring. But first and foremost, we must love to drive and love road trips to overcome the tiredness. I would also take short breaks to break the monotony of my drives, especially when I'm doing these trips alone. I'll also try to plan for some interesting destinations so that I'll look forward to it (like hoping to see wild elephants at Gerik Highway). Staying at good hotels and pampering oneself with spa/massage would also help. I've only been to Cherating once and I love that place! Didn't stay overnight but just had dinner there. Can consider going to Kuantan before Cherating. For Kuantan, I've stayed at Hyatt Hyatt Regency a few times…

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Que faire en Malaisie ? Itinéraire et budget pour 3 semaines de voyage

Tu souhaites savoir quoi faire en Malaisie comment organiser ton itinéraire sur la péninsule  ? Voire mieux, connaitre la meilleure période à laquelle partir en voyage en Malaisie ? Bon, le climat tropical ainsi que les moussons ne simplifient pas la réponse, mais on va voir ça en détail.

La Malaisie (péninsulaire) est, selon moi, trop souvent ignorée par les voyageurs en Asie du Sud-Est. On a donc effectué un itinéraire de 3 semaines en Malaisie , pour un budget journalier de moins de 20€ par personne par jour (je le détaille en fin d’article).

Notre circuit a démarré depuis de la capitale, Kuala Lumpur , pour rejoindre les îles de Perhentians en passant par la jungle de Taman Negara , avant d’aller découvrir l’île de Penang en terminant notre boucle par la côte ouest avec les impressionnantes plantations de thé de Cameron Highlands .

Cet article de blog se veut être un “guide complet”. En plus d’aborder les préparatifs pour savoir quoi faire avant de partir en Malaisie , je vais donc décrire les incontournables de notre voyage et détaillé l’itinéraire, les déplacements, comment réduire ses dépenses, etc.

Alors oui, on voyage plutôt en mode “backpacker”, mais ce guide est fait pour tous les types de voyageurs, c’est à dire que je détaille nos dépenses mais je suggère aussi des alternatives, des activités ou des excursions qu’on aurait aimer s’offrir si on avait eu les moyens (bah oui, 6 mois en Asie avec 4000€, faut faire des choix!).

Si t’as des remarques ou des questions, n’hésite pas à les poser en commentaires ou directement en m’écrivant sur  Instagram , où je partage souvent des conseils et des réflexions sur le voyage.

Que faire en Malaisie ? | Sommaire & épingle

Sommaire de l'article

1. Les visas

2. les vaccins, 3. souscrire à une assurance voyage, la meilleure période pour voyager en malaisie, que faire en malaisie s’y rendre , carte de notre itinéraire en malaisie, 1. kuala lumpur – 4 jours, 2. melaka (ou malacca) – 2 jours, 3. la jungle de taman negara – 3 jours, 4. prendre le jungle train – 1 jour, 5. les îles de perhentian – 3 jours, 6. george town (île de penang) – 4 jours, 7. cameron highlands – 2 jours, activités, visites et excursions d’une journée en malaisie, itinéraire de 20 jours en malaise : le budget, 1. réserver des transferts ou chauffeurs privés, 2. voyager avec les transports locaux, comment se loger pas cher en malaisie , manger pas cher durant son voyage en malaisie, que faire en malaisie : si notre itinéraire de voyage était à refaire , voyage en malaisie : les liens pratiques.

Que faire avant de partir en Malaisie ? Les préparatifs

Les préparatifs pour son voyage en Malaisie sont relativement simples et peu nombreux , le pays s’étant adapté au tourisme depuis de nombreuses années.

On l’oublie trop souvent, mais nous avons la chance d’être nés “au bon endroit”, avec des passeports mondialement acceptés assez facilement.

Les ressortissants français et belges n’ont pas besoin de visa en particulier pour un voyage de moins de 3 mois en Malaisie. Il faut cependant une preuve de votre départ du pays dans ce délai (souvent, un billet d’avion retour).

Comme pour la plupart des voyages en Asie du Sud-Est, les vaccins contre l’hépatite A, la typhoïde, la polio, le tétanos et la diphtérie sont fortement conseillés.

Palu en Malaisie. Source : pasteur-lille.fr

À propos du paludisme ; il est principalement présent dans le centre du pays (plutôt hors des zones touristiques et civilisées), dans les zones humides et rurales comme la jungle centrale de Taman Negara (nous y sommes allés et n’avons rien eu).

Il faut donc appliquer des mesures préventives dans cette région, antimoustiques, vêtements couvrant le corps pour les randonnées en jungle, dormir avec une moustiquaire, etc. Ça te protègera également de la dengue, également présent en Malaisie.

Le pays est relativement sûr, il n’est pas “dangereux” de voyager en Malaisie, loin de là. Cependant, pour voyager hors Europe, je conseille toujours de prendre une assurance santé internationale . Les grandes villes du pays sont bien équipées d’un point de vue médical, mais ça n’est pas le cas du pays entier.

🚑 LA QUESTION DE L’ASSURANCE POUR UN VOYAGE EN MALAISIE :

Si jamais tu n’as pas encore réglé le sujet (épineux) de l’assurance voyage , voici 2 très bonnes solutions que je te conseille en fonction de la durée de ton voyage : 1) Voyage de moins de 2 mois : la Tourist Card de GobyAVA. C’est une assurance multirisque complète et valable pour le monde entier, ça inclut les frais médicaux dès le 1er €, rapatriement, responsabilité civile à l’étranger, etc !

2) Voyage de plus de 2 mois : Le plan santé AVAnture qui est surtout intéressant pour son tarif “backpackeur” / sac à dos. C’est celui qu’on utilise le plus depuis plusieurs années vu qu’on privilégie les voyages “longs” (si tu voyages avec du matériel, leur nouveau plan DIGINOMAD est une option aussi). Idem, couverture monde entier dès le 1er €, rapatriement etc, et surtout excellent rapport couverture / prix.

Sinon, tu peux également trouver l’assurance adaptée à ton voyage (destination, durées,..) en 3 clics via leur comparateur en ligne (le code JEREMYAVA t’offre 5% sur la plupart des plans). En toute transparence, utiliser ce code te fait économiser, mais me permet de toucher une petite commission au passage, ce qui est façon de soutenir ce blog et mes articles qui, je l’espère, te sont utiles (donc merci à tous ceux qui y pensent 🙏🏼)

Je t’invite également à lire mon guide ultra complet “ Comment bien choisir son assurance voyage ? ” dans lequel j’explique tout pour savoir quand (ou non) il est essentiel de prendre une assurance voyage (les cartes bancaires, par exemple, qui sont souvent des fausses croyances qui ne couvrent pas grand-chose).

La période idéale pour partir en Malaisie est de juin à août , en théorie. Le pays étant sujet à une mousson d’hiver, mais aussi une mousson d’été. Les joies du climat malais.

Il faut donc tenir compte de ces 2 moussons pour préparer son voyage et son itinéraire en Malaisie au mieux :

• Mousson d’hiver : fortes pluies (sur la côte Est surtout) entre novembre et février .
• Mousson d’été : pluies et vents forts de fin mai à septembre principalement dans l’ouest de la péninsule.
• Pire mois pour aller en Malaisie : octobre novembre décembre

Nous nous en sommes bien sortis en y allant de mi-octobre à début novembre (sauf pour la fin de Perhentians où on s’est pris un bon début de mousson). Et non, nous n’avions pas tapé “quand partir en Malaisie?” sur Google à l’avance, haha.

La Malaisie a un climat globalement chaud et humide (même avec ton meilleur déo, ne te fais pas d’illusions). Cet effet s’accentue vers le centre du pays qui peut avoir un effet un peu plus étouffant en cas de fortes chaleurs (jungle avec climat tropical).

Source : Ou-et-quand-partir.net

Bon, à priori, en sachant ça, ça te donne une bonne indication pour pouvoir planifier ton voyage en Malaisie et savoir quand y partir.

Je ne suis pas météorologue non plus, si tu souhaites voir le climat mois par mois, il cet article .

Kuala Lumpur et son aéroport international sont devenus une sorte de plaque tournante des vols passant par l’Asie du Sud-Est. Il est donc assez simple de trouver des billets d’avion pas chers pour la Malaisie, et ce, depuis quasiment n’importe où.

C’est bien pour ça qu’on parle souvent de “circuits de 2 ou 3 semaines”, car on effectue souvent une boucle avec KL comme point de départ et d’arrivée. Singapour peut également être une option d’arrivée (vérifier les visas, par contre).

Voir les vols les moins chers sur l’ensemble de l’année pour la Malaisie : • Depuis la France (dès 230€) • Depuis Paris (dès 230€) • Depuis la Belgique (dès 236€) • Depuis un autre point de départ

Cette (incroyable) carte reprend notre itinéraire pour 20 jours sur la péninsule occidentale malaisienne (donc pas d’orang-outan de la forêt tropicale de Bornéo, sorry!)

Nous ne nous sommes jamais pressés pour ce “circuit” en Malaisie (sauf pour fuir l’île de Perhentian quand la mousson est arrivée, haha).

On bougeait quand on estimait avoir fait le tour de l’endroit et des environs.

Nous avions simplement estimé le voyage à 3 semaines pour réserver notre vol pour le Vietnam depuis Kuala Lumpur, et je pense que c’était l’idéal.

Comme pour chaque destination d’ Asie du Sud-Est, cet article de blog reprend l’itinéraire global de notre voyage en Malaisie pour que tu saches que faire et où aller pour planifier ton séjour. Pour chaque étape, j’ai rédigé des articles / guides plus détaillés avec les logements, activités et les dépenses plus précises (liens plus bas). Donc si tu veux être préparé comme jamais, tu sais ce qu’il te reste à reste !

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Kuala Lumpur (KL pour les intimes) est souvent réduite au stade de “ville transit”. Donc on voulait prendre quelques jours pour découvrir la capitale malaisienne.

D’un côté, c’est une métropole futuriste avec son centre-ville et les fameuses tours jumelles (KL towers) et autres centres commerciaux. Et d’un autre, un mélange de cultures et de temples / monuments religieux (mosquées, temples hindous, etc.). KL compte 45% de Malaisiens, 40% de Chinois et environ 10% d’Indiens.

Le marché de Chinatown où les vendeurs te jurent que cette paire d’Adidas est authentique, mais qu’il ta la fait à 9€ parce que c’est toi ! Ou encore little India et les Batu Caves.

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par 🇧🇪 ᴊᴇʀᴇᴍʏ | ʙʟᴏɢ ᴀᴜsᴛʀᴀʟɪᴇ/ɴᴢ (@jeremybackpacker) le 29 Mars 2018 à 5 :58 PDT

En gros, on a réparti nos journées comme suit :

• Jour 1 : arrivée on s’installe et on visite le Central Market / Little India
• Jour 2 : Visite des tours jumelles (forcément, beaucoup de monde, file pour les photos. Il existe cependant des passes “coupe-file” ). du centre-ville, chill au parc et recherche d’un endroit pour réparer mon pc (si, c’était super important ok ?)
• Jour 3 : Chinatown, son marché, les temples dans les environs
• Jour 4 : Visite des Batu Caves (il est possible d’y aller par soi-même ou via des excursions d’une demi-journée à partir de 13€ ) + planifier le reste du trip

Tout ça est détaillé dans l’article dédié à Kuala Lumpur, ainsi que comment s’y rendre, où on mangeait, ce qu’on a aimé, etc. !

Où se loger à Kuala Lumpur ? Concernant le logement, nous en avons testé 2 différents. (On réserve toujours sur booking.com) • Auberge / hostels :  Stepp In Guesthouse : bien situé à Chinatown, dortoirs et chambres doubles. Testé et approuvé ! • Chambres double s :  Léo Leisure @ Central Market : chambres doubles également testées et approuvées, confortables, calmes. Et pour ceux qui vue depuis les tours jumelles depuis la piscine : Maxhome @ D’Majestic place .

L’accès aux Batu Caves (qui a bien changé depuis)

Je pense qu’on avait repéré Melaka avant d’arriver en Malaisie, mais on s’était dit que ce n’était pas un “incontournable”.

Cependant, une fois à KL, on s’est rendu compte que c’était tellement simple et peu couteux d’y descendre qu’on s’est dit pourquoi pas. 3€ par personne par trajet pour 2 heures de car, on n’allait pas faire nos fines bouches.

Et on a bien fait. Incultes que nous sommes, on ne savait même pas que Melaka était classé au patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO .

Place principale de Melaka

Attention je lance une nouvelle appellation. Pour moi, Melaka c’est un peu l’Amsterdam de la Malaisie. Il y a une très forte influence néerlandaise sur cette ville (moulin à vent, très fleuri, canal). Elle a été contrôlée par des colonies portugaises, britanniques et néerlandaises. Je ne suis pas ton prof d’histoire, mais ça fait bien d’écrire ce genre de choses sur un blog voyage, il parait.

Melaka est très agréable pour une journée ou deux. Tu suis le canal principal, il y a quelques “vestiges” de temple à voir, et un night market et les fameux tuk-tuks immanquables.

Où se loger à Melaka ? Concernant le logement, nous en avons testé 2 différents. (On réserve toujours sur booking.com) • Discovery Malacca Hostel   : c’est là que nous sommes restés 2 nuits. Il y a des dortoirs et des chambres doubles. Bien situé, petit déjeuner inclus, ce n’est pas le grand luxe, mais nous ça nous suffisait amplement. • Oyo 825 : si tu as un budget un peu plus autour des 20€ par nuit, celui-ci a l’air vraiment pas mal ! • Ou tu peux simplement voir les logements disponibles à Melaka

Pas (encore) d’article dédié à Melaka, mais je crois que tout inclus, pour 2 jours et 2 nuits, ça nous est revenu à un peu plus de 30 € par personne. Avec le transport aller-retour depuis KL.

De retour de Melaka, on passe une nuit à Kuala Lumpur, car pour aller de KL à Taman Negara, il faut prévoir une journée entière.

On a rejoint le parc national de Taman Negara via les transports en commun. Ce qui impliquerait le monorail, un bus, un van, puis 3 heures de canopée (ce qui était une chouette expérience en pleine jungle). Je détaille le trajet dans l’article dédié.

Taman Negara, c’est la jungle mon pote, la vraie forêt tropicale malaisienne ! Qui dit forêt tropicale dit climat… tropical ; chaud et très humide, la climatisation et les moustiquaires sont indispensables si tu passer une bonne nuit.

Taman Negara est le nom du parc National. Mais le village de l’autre côté de la rive s’appelle Kuala Tahan . C’est encore assez rustique, mais il y a déjà pas mal de guesthouses pour les voyageurs. Même s’il y a pas mal de “floating restaurants” abordables et qui sont une particularité de cet endroit.

Les floating restaurants de Kuala Tahan

Le parc national est assez grand, avec pas mal de treks, sentiers et un “canopy walkway” assez cool. Ce sont clairement des paysages qui changent radicalement des grands buildings et autres gratte-ciels de Kuala Lumpur, mais ça n’est pas pour nous déplaire, bien au contraire.

Donc clairement, Kuala Tahan et Taman Negara font partie des choses à faire durant son voyage en Malaisie.

Canopy Walkway – Taman Negara

Où se loger à Taman Negara ? La guest House à laquelle on était resté semble avoir fermé (Noriah Guesthouse). • Wild Lodge Taman Negara : une auberge qui donne directement sur la rivère de Taman Negara • Greenland Resort : guest house qui a l’air assez bien notée (8,2)! • Sinon, tu peux simplement voir les logements disponibles à Kuala Tahan.

Le jungle train est une aventure, mais l’attraper en fut une également, haha. On était les seuls touristes à prendre ce fameux train à travers la jungle.

Les infos ne sont pas simples à trouver et ne sont pas très claires. Surtout qu’il ne passe qu’une fois par jour.

Depuis Taman Negara, on a pris un bus jusqu’à Jerantut, puis un autre de Jerantut à Kuala Lipis, où on a passé une nuit. Enfin, pas complètement, car le train passait à 4.30 du matin. Le but était de rallier Kota Bharu, pour se diriger vers les îles Perhentian. On a trouvé des horaires sur ce site , mais à vérifier si c’est toujours d’actualité.

C’était beaucoup d’organisation, mais au final une super expérience. C’est aussi pour ça qu’on aime voyager local, on se déplace comme les locaux le font quotidiennement, et très souvent en étant les seuls voyageurs.

Le jungle train

Se rendre sur l’île de Perhentian ne fut pas de tout repos (parfois j’en viens même à comprendre ceux qui craquent pour les voyages sur mesure, haha).

Le jungle train attrapé à 4.30 du matin n’était que le début d’une très longue journée. Pour pour ne pas trop épiloguer, je détaille le parcours dans l’article dédié. Mais ça inclut Theresa sautant à l’arrière du scooter d’un inconnu pour aller dire au dernier bateau de nous attendre. Et moi courant comme un con avec les backpacks. La belle vie.

On avait choisi Perhentian Kecil , réputée plus développée.

Direction Perhentian Island !

Bref, on y arrive donc et, si tu rappelles du début de l’article et des saisons, bah Jéjé et Théthé ils n’y avaient pas spécialement pensé. Et donc la mousson d’été elle débute quand ? Début novembre environ. Et Jéjé et Théthé ils arrivent quand sur l’île ? Fin octobre. Oui.

En vrai, on s’en est très bien sorti, parce que du coup l’île était quasiment déserte. Au début on s’est un peu demandé quoi. La plupart des logements étaient fermés. Il en restait deux, dont un vraiment top avec des petits “huts” vues sur plage à des prix cassés, vu la fin de la saison.

Où se loger sur l’île de Perhentian (Kecil) ? • Senja Bay Resort : un des deux seuls logements encore ouverts. On a profité de tarifs très avantageux, car c’était la fin de saison, comme expliqué. Mais le petit bungalow avec vue sur plage, ça fait clairement plaisir ! • Sinon, tu peux simplement voir les logements disponibles sur les îles Perhentian

Ce peu de monde avait énormément d’avantages, les plages paradisiaques de sable blanc étaient désertes .

Et du coup, c’était l’idéal pour explorer les fonds marins, tortues et requins de récifs. Les sorties snorkelling ne coûtaient presque rien, et on n’était pas 25 comme à Gili Air , en Indonésie.

Encerclé par des requins de récifs, d’accord.

Le dernier jour fut épique, on s’est pris le début de la mousson bien comme il faut, donc tout le monde a dû évacuer l’île sous des fortes pluies. On a d’abord pensé que c’était une averse, mais non. Tu te rends rapidement compte ce que signifie “pluie tropicale” et “mousson” quand t’en subis une.

Je réserve le récit du retour en bateau perdu dans la brume en pleine mer pendant 30 min pour le guide sur Perhentian, mais on a clairement vécu l’expérience la plus irréelle de nos 6 mois en Asie, haha.

Street art à George Town

De retour sur la terre ferme, on réservera les deux derniers sièges pour un bus de nuit vers l’île de Penang (réservé sur 12Go à l’improviste sur nos smartphones). Probablement un des trajets les plus mouvementés de notre trip. Theresa dormira comme un bébé, moi non.

George Town se révèlera être une des belles surprises de la Malaisie ! On y allait un peu comme des moutons parce que c’était recommandé dans les choses à faire sur pas mal de blogs. Et au final, c’est probablement une des villes les plus agréables qu’on ait pu visiter. Principalement pour son street art et ses spécialités culinaires.

On n’a pas testé, mais je sais qu’il y a beaucoup de visites qui allient découverte de la ville et spécialités locales .

Où se loger à George Town ? Idem, notre logement de l’époque ne semble plus disponible. • Drippin dragon Hostel   : auberge notée à 8,2, avec petit déjeuneur inclus pour 9€ par nuit. • The 80’s Guesthouse   : parfaitement situé, des chambres doubles très abordables et petits-déj compris. • Sinon, tu peux simplement voir les logements disponibles à George Town.

Street art le plus connu de Penang

Seul regret de notre itinéraire, c’est de ne pas être allé sur l’île de Langkawi, le temps était vraiment mauvais sur l’île, et c’est pour cela que depuis Penang, nous nous sommes dirigés vers Cameron Highlands.

Sur le chemin retour de notre boucle, il y avait donc Cameron Highlands. On se réjouissait, car les photos donnaient vraiment envie. En plus, vu que c’est dans les hauteurs, le temps devait être plus frais, et après 2 bonnes semaines dans la chaleur et l’humidité, tu rêves d’une petite brise constante qui fouette ton visage.

On trouvera une auberge de jeunesse vraiment atypique et bien cool. Un hostel “capsule”, fondée par un couple de voyageurs, et ça se voit ! Ça sera une des seules fois où on se prendra des lits dans un dortoir, mais c’était un endroit fun à tester !

Où se loger à Cameron Highlands ? • Traveller Bunker Hostel : C’est l’hostel capsule avec tout ce qu’il faut à côté de chaque lit, bref on valide entièrement le concept ! • Oyo 1231 : si tu cherches une chambre double, celles-ci ont l’air très bien notées. • Sinon, tu peux simplement voir les logements disponibles à Cameron Highlands.

On passera donc 2 jours à Cameron Highlands. Le premier, on fera un trek assez court pour visiter les environs et récupérer du trajet de nuit.

Le jour 2, JOUR DE TREK. Il y a des tas de randonnées possibles. Le Trail n°1 semblait le meilleur , 3-4h avec des vues sur les plantations de thé et les montagnes. Le trail semblait assez peu fréquenté, on a parfois lu qu’il était fermé aux touristes, puis on a appris qu’une personne l’avait fait il y a peu. Donc on s’est lancé, mais je conseille vraiment de demander à des locaux ce qu’il en est et de télécharger la carte de la région sur MAPS.ME.

C’était une sacrée aventure (parfois on doutait du chemin, mais on y est arrivé tant bien que mal (idem c’est raconté en détail dans l’article dédié)).

Les plantations de thé de Cameron Highlands

Je m’en doute, tout le monde n’a pas l’occasion d’explorer la Malaisie pour 2 ou 3 semaines comme nous.

Si on réserve peu à l’avance, c’est parce qu’on essaie de voyager “sans date de fin”, donc on avance au feeling.

Pour ceux que ça arrangerait, il existe parfois des excursions d’un jour depuis des grandes un point fixe (par exemple, tu peux visiter Taman Negara en une journée depuis Kuala Lumpur )

Si tu préfères réserver l’une ou l’autre excursion / activité à l’avance et sans mauvaise surprise, Civitatis est à mes yeux l’une des plateformes francophones les plus fiables, sérieuses et de qualité.

Tu en as pour tous les prix, et 2 avantages intéressants :

• Tu peux lire des avis récents
• Les tours / agences / guides / transferts listés sur le site sont vérifiés et sérieux.
• Ils ont d’excellents Free Tour (oui, entièrement gratuits !)
• Tu peux annuler certaines activités sans frais

Voilà quelques exemples d’excursions les plus populaires :

Je sais que c’est souvent ce que les voyageurs recherchent le plus, mais qu’il est difficile de trouver des infos concrètes. Mais ça, c’était avant de tomber sur ce merveilleux blog. Bref, je vais essayer de faire ça bien.

Les montants suivants sont donc le budget pour 2 personnes pour un itinéraire de 20 jours en Malaisie (hors billets d’avion).

Ah ouais, la monnaie locale est le Ringgit malaisien. 1 € équivaut à 4,6x ringgits (on comptait 1€ = 5 ringgits comme ça quand on faisait les comptes c’était la bonne surprise).

• Nourriture : 1600 MYR (soit 350€ soit 9€ par jour)
• Logements : 872 MYR (soit 193€, donc 9,5€ par nuit pour deux)
• Transports : 600 MYR (133€)
• Activités & divers : 488 MYR (107€)

Un total de 3560 MYR (donc 752€, donc 376 € par personne).

Ce qui fait 18,8€ (89MYR) par jour par personne, en faisant attention.

Je détaille comment on a réduit nos dépenses secteur par secteur, pour ceux que ça intéresse !

Comment se déplacer pas cher en Malaisie ?

Dernier point avant d’attaquer notre itinéraire en Malaisie, comment se déplacer pas cher en Malaisie ?

Il y a selon moi 2 options “pas chères”. :

• Transferts et chauffeurs privés
• Utiliser les transports locaux

(Je n’inclus donc pas les solutions comme les chauffeurs privés ou encore les “séjours organisés” ou “voyages sur mesure” que des agences spécialisées peuvent proposer, car bien qu’adaptés à certains voyageurs, cela a forcément un autre prix.)

Cela se fait, mais en bon backpackeurs que nous sommes, j’avoue que ça ne nous arrive presque jamais, uniquement quand on doit aller à l’aéroport (ou arriver) de nuit, ou qu’on n’a pas d’autres options !

Pour cela, soit tu trouves un chauffeur ou une compagnie sur place et tu essaies de négocier (sachant que c’est difficile de connaitre les vrais prix et que si t’es un touriste tu risques fort de perdre à la fin, ou alors tu peux réserver des transferts à l’avance avec des prix fixes (par exemple depuis l’aéroport de Kuala Lumpur ).

Je déconseille en revanche de prendre des transferts privés pour explorer le pays et de privilégier des transports locaux.

La plupart du temps, le moyen moins cher (et de loin) de visiter un pays est d’utiliser les transports en commun locaux , les bus, les trains, ou encore les fameux tuk-tuk, si populaires en Asie.

En Asie, c’est bien souvent plus “à l’arrache”. Dans le sens où il n’y a parfois pas de site officiel ni d’horaire. Et la Malaisie n’échappe pas à cette règle. On passait parfois une heure à à chercher des infos en ligne pour faire au moins cher, parfois on demandait aux locaux (souvent très aidant, mais à l’anglais limité). Mais on s’en est toujours sorti. Puis ça fait partie du voyage, la débrouille, l’impro et l’inattendu !

Les fameux rickshaw/tuk-tuk de Melaka

Pour des trajets plus longs, ou pour lesquels on avait besoin d’être sûrs d’arriver à tel endroit pour telle heure, on a fini par trouver 12Go Asia (on s’en servait uniquement pour les transports). En gros, c’est un comparateur de services de transports en Asie du Sud-Est. Ça nous a permis de trouver comment aller de Kuala Lumpur à Melaka pour 3€ par personne , par exemple. Donc il nous a bien servi plus d’une fois !

On cherchait toujours les logements les moins chers avec des reviews correctes (en se passant parfois de la clim quand les différences de prix étaient trop importantes). On réserve toujours sur booking.com (et si on prolongeait, on négociait directement avec les propriétaires.)

On a parfois eu des mauvaises surprises, mais c’est en général le “prix à payer” quand tu voyages en mode budget serré. Il est vrai que parfois mettre quelques euros en plus aurait pu en valoir la peine.

Mais sur 6 mois d’Asie, toutes les économies comptent. Nous n’aurions jamais tenu 6 mois et demi avec 4000€ chacun en prenant des logements moyens ou haut de gamme.

Manger pas cher revient à manger pour 10/15 MYR (entre 2 et 3 €) par personne.

Ce n’est pas toujours évident de trouver des bons plans, mais ça reste faisable. C’est en général là qu’on fait des belles économies sur le long terme également. Pour le petit-déjeuner et le lunch, on trouvait souvent des “rôtis shop” (le rôti bomb est une dinguerie), c’est un mets local souvent très abordable.

Le mieux reste de privilégier le street food et le local.

Très honnêtement, je n’y changerais pas grand-chose. Peut-être rajouter Langkawi, car c’est la seule région qu’on retrouve sur pas mal de blogs spécialisés sur la Malaisie qu’on n’a pas pu visiter (en plus de Bornéo, sur l’autre péninsule).

Mais globalement, je pense vraiment que l’itinéraire tient la route pour voyager 2 ou 3 semaines en Malaisie, on n’a pas eu l’impression de devoir se dépêcher ou d’être restés trop longtemps à certains endroits.

En espérant que cet article / guide complet a bien en partie répondu aux questions “quoi faire et quand partir en Malaisie” et que cet itinéraire de voyage te sera utile dans la préparation du tien !

Si ç’a été le cas, n’hésite pas à me poser tes éventuelles questions ou me signaler tes incontournables de Malaisie ou simplement me faire savoir que l’article t’a été utile via les commentaires un peu plus bas (ça fait toujours plaisir pour le temps investi 🙂 + le petit vote en début d’article si vraiment t’es une belle personne !)

Sinon je suis souvent directement joignable via mon Instagram .

🚑Pour partir assuré :  la tourist card de GobyAVA  (-5% avec “JEREMYAVA”) ✈️Pour trouver un vol :  Skyscanner 🛏Pour chercher un logement :  Booking.com 🇲🇦Pour retrouver tous les articles sur la Malaisie 📸 On reste en contact via Instagram ?

Merci de m’avoir lu !

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20 Commentaires

Salut Jérémy, Je réfléchis pour un voyage en août avec ma fille de 11ans. Tu penses qu’un itinéraire comme le tiens peut se faire facilement avec elle ? Au niveau de la faune locale, il y a t’il des choses sympas a voir ? Je te remercie Julien

Bonjour Julien,

Je ne suis pas forcément la meilleure personne pour répondre car nous n’avons pas (encore) d’enfants. L’itinéraire était parfois intense, avec parfois de longs trajets en bus (dont un de nuit), donc cela dépend aussi de votre fille, un enfant n’étant pas l’autre.

Après, le voyage est l’école de la vie (et je ne parle pas du voyage en hôtel 5 étoiles de 2sem, mais celui au contact du réel, des locaux etc), donc ça peut d’office être une chouette expérience.

Pour la faune et la flore, on a fait un passage par la jungle de Taman Negara, tu pourras trouver un article sur le blog.

Peut-être chercher un blog d’une famille qui aurait voyagé en Malaisie également pourrait t’aider.

Au plaisir,

Bonjour, Je viens de découvrir votre blog. Tous ces voyages sont plutôt passionnants. Personnellement, j’adore les tuk-tuk de Melaka, ils sont vraiment originaux, lol. Merci pour ce partage, je voudrais bien partir en Malaisie l’année prochaine.

Hello Sarah,

Content que l’article puisse vous donner envie de découvrir la Malaisie !

Hello, petite question au sujet de l itinéraire jungle train. Pourquoi ne l’ avez vous pas pris à Jerantut directement au lieu de prendre un bus jusque Kuala lipis? Sur Google on dirait que la ligne de train passe aussi par jerantut non? Merci;-) on prévoit ce voyage en famille pour fin avril;-)

Salut Estelle,

Difficile de te répondre car ça remonte à plusieurs années, je sais qu’on avait longuement étudié toutes les possibilités donc si on avait choisi celle-là, c’était probablement car c’était la meilleure option pour nous à l’époque. De mémoire, c’était une question d’horaires, et on voulait faire le trajet en journée pour profiter de la vue “au cœur de la jungle”, il me semble.

Bon voyage et profitez bien !

Je pense aussi qu’on devait partir très tôt car l’objectif était de rallier les îles perhentians le même jour, donc une fois arrivé à Kota Bharu (je crois), on devait encore prendre un bus pour avoir une chance d’attraper le dernier bateau pour les îles.

Bonjour, ton récit est très intéressant et on se sentirait presque en Malaisie ! Néanmoins j’ai une question bien plus prosaïque et terre à terre : à quel point il serait difficile de se déplacer comme dans le cas de votre circuit (à l’exception du scooter évidemment :D) avec des valises (j’imagine que vous avez seulement votre sac à dos ?) à savoir une petite (cabine) et une grande (soute). Merci pour les infos !

Bonjour Marcel,

Content que l’article vous ait plu et vous ait fait voyager !

Pour être honnête, c’est un itinéraire “purement backpackeur”, dans le sens où nous voyagions vraiment au plus économique, avec parfois pas mal de marche, de nombreux transports (et en Malaisie, il faut parfois vite donner ou récupérer son sac à dos). Suivre l’itinéraire (dans le sens, suivre l’ordre des destinations) doit être faisable de façon “plus confortable” (en louant une voiture ou en réservant des chauffeurs), mais je ne ferai pas le même périple si nous avions 1 valise chacun (et encore moins avec 2).

L’avantage du sac à dos, c’est qu’une fois bien réglé sur le dos, on est assez mobile, puis il ne risque pas grand chose quand il est balancé à l’arrière d’un bus ou d’un bateau, par exemple.

Bonjour, nous partons en Malaisie cet été avec 2 enfants (5 & 8) et il nous reste 2-3 jours à planifier Sachant que nous faisons déjà KL et les Iles Perhentian Qu’est ce que vous nous conseillerez ? Cameron Highlands, Malacca Penang? A noter que c’est le 1er gros voyage pour nos filles 🙂 Merci beaucoup

Bonjour Johanna,

Merci pour ton passage sur le blog !

Pour 2-3 jours, si vous voulez restez proches de KL, Malacca est pratique.

Personnellement, on a préféré Penang (GeorgeTown) car même si Malacca est agréable, ça se fait aisément en 1-2 journées. À voir si ça reste dans vos plannings avec les trajets / transports ?

Cameron Highlands, je déconseillerais avec les petites car ce sont essentiellement des randonnées assez vallonnées.

Top merci Jérémy Je pense que l’on va partir sur Malacca & Kuala Selangor avec les lucioles 🙂

Hello Jeremy L! J’ai ADORE lire tes aventures en Malaisie. Informatif, précis avec la pointe d’humour qu’on aime ! MERCI de ce SUPER PARTAGE. je prépare un séjour en Malaisie autour d’avril prochain, un mois min. : avec et pour les 30 ans de ma fille aînée la Joséphine ! (qui a déjà “crapahuté” 6 mois seule en Asie et 4 mois en Amérique du Sud, et tant de voyages ensemble plus près : en septembre, Bosnie, Montenegro, Albanie, et Pologne, République Tchèque etc … pardon quand je parle VOYAGES je pars loin … Ma/notre vie !) SON REVE : étant, depuis toujours, de RENCONTRER LES TORTUES, voir des éclosions, nager avec elles, découvrir des centres de protection. Tu n’en a parles pas, snorkling quand vous étiez dans les Perhantians, qui semblent le meilleur site pour voir des tortues. As-tu des infos à ce sujet ? Ou des sites/personnes à me conseiller ? Pour trouver le meilleur spot. Et comme tu es BACKPACKER, all over the WORLD, d’autres lieux dans le Monde où rencontrer DES TORTUES ? Comme toi, nous voyageons tranquilou, petit budget, de l’authentique. DU VRAI, simple. VOYAGER, découvrir l’ailleurs, nos soeurs et frères du MONDE, relativiser nos “petits tracas” d’enfants trop gâtés de pays “riches” … MERCI de ta réponse. Good Luck pour tes prochains voyages, que tu nous partageras je l’espère. Emmanuelle de Dinan (22)

Hello Emmanuelle !

Content que les articles te plaisent, et merci pour tes retours !

Super projet que de voyager en mode backpack en famille 🙂

Pour les tortues, en Malaisie, j’en parle dans l’article sur les îles Perhentians : https://www.jeremybackpacker.com/iles-perhentian-malaisie-budget/ .

Sinon, je conseille aussi le Sri Lanka (la côte sud) où on en a croisées quelques-unes même sans le vouloir 🙂 : https://www.jeremybackpacker.com/que-faire-sri-lanka-itineraire-road-trip/

Au plaisir et bons voyages !

Merci beaucoup pour cet article complet avec les différents liens ! Je tente de préparer un petit circuit pour le mois de juillet ! Avez vous rallier KL vers Singapour ? Si oui, Y a t il des formalités particulières ? Quel mode de transport avez vous privilégier ?

Hello Bernadette !

Merci, content qu’il vous soit utile.

Non, nous ne sommes pas allés à Singapour, donc je ne peux pas vous conseiller. Je pense en revanche que c’est une route assez classique pour les voyageurs, donc il doit y avoir pas mal d’infos sur les sites types routard et ça doit être relativement simple en pratique.

Bon voyage !

Bonjour, nous prévoyons un voyage en Malaisie du 14 au 28 octobre. Nous aimerions aller aux îles perenthians mais malheureusement a cette période il y a les moussons!

Savez vous comment est réellement la météo a cette période sur les îles de l’est? Avez vous d’autre îles avec bons spots de snorkelling a nous conseiller?

Merci d’avance

Hello Thomas !

Alors, le climat n’est pas une science exacte, et généralement, la mousson commence à partir de novembre. Dans l’article sur les iles Perhentians, je raconte qu’elle a débuté fin octobre, pile le dernier jour de notre trip de 4 jours sur place.

Même après 3 jours de beau temps, quand la mousson commence, ce sont des fortes pluies diluviennes assez violentes.

Peut-être qu’y aller au début de votre trip pour quelques jours serait ok, mais sans garantie, et pas mal de logements / restau seront probablement déjà fermés.

Concernant le snorkelling/plongée, nous n’en avons fait qu’à Perhentians en Malaisie, il faudra chercher pour voir s’il y en a sur la côte ouest, mais pas sûr.

Mille mercis pour toute ces infos, bravo pour le travail réalisé.

Bonjour, je prépare un road trop de 2 semaines avec mes 3 enfants en malaise. Comme je ne passe pas par des agences et que je prépare mon voyage seule, les blogs comme le votre m aident beaucoup! Je pars en juillet donc je ne vais pas faire l’ouest de la Malaisie mais j ai pris plein de bonnes astuces entre kuala, le parc taman negara et les iles perhentian. Surtoit sur les transports ! Merci!

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Bon, je vais essayer de faire court et clair, mais pas sûr que ça soit faisable. Ça fait partie de ces aventures dont les voyageurs ne parlent pas trop, car ça fait moins rêver qu’une belle photo sur une plage paradisiaque ou depuis un lagoon à l’eau turquoise.

Je trouve cependant que ça fait entièrement partie du voyage et dire que c’est tout beau tout rose tout le temps est un mensonge. Bien que globalement (et heureusement), toutes ses mésaventures restent de bons souvenirs tout de même après coup.

Prendre le jungle train n’était pas une mésaventure, en soi. Mais disons que ce n’était vraiment pas simple, bien que le trajet fut en soi un souvenir unique.

DONC, de Taman Negara, bus jusqu’à Jerantut . De Jerantut, bus jusqu’à Kuala Lipis . Le but était d’attraper le jungle train qui passait à 4h30-45 du matin (de mémoire). Jusque là on est bon ? Excellent.

Donc, ce train “bien à l’ancienne” mettra 7 heures pour nous amener près de Kota Bharu . On se reposera un peu tout en profitant des vues de ce trajet en train atypique.

Depuis la gare, on a dû négocier un taxi pour qu’il nous amène jusqu’à la station de bus principale de Kota Bharu, c’était un enfer de négocier, il y avait une sorte de consensus pour nous la mettre profonde vu qu’on était quasi les seuls touristes.

Je t’épargne la partie où on demande quel bus il faut prendre pour aller à Kuala Besut à 10 personnes ne comprenant pas l’anglais. On a trouvé les gens pas super sympathiques dans cette région, qui a d’ailleurs assez mauvaise réputation. On finit par trouver le bon bus (le #636 et coute 6 MYR, aime-moi pour cette info), qui partira avec beaucoup de retard.

Dois-je préciser que le dernier bateau pour les îles Perhentian partait à 16h  (horaire 8h-10h-12h et 16h) ? Et que notre bus roulant à 32 km/h de moyenne arrivera à 15h55 à la station de bus de Kuala Besut. Y en avait pour 20 min de marche, on était saoulé.

PUIS LÀ, notre chevalier sur son beau scooter blanc arrive de nulle part, nous crie “PERHENTIAN ??” nous, on le voit comme notre seule chance d’avoir ce foutu dernier ferry, donc on dit oui ! Bref, il dit à Theresa de sauter à l’arrière de son scoot et qu’il viendra me rechercher après.

En soi, après coup, on a percuté que Theresa aurait très bien plus se faire kidnapper en Malaisie, ce qui n’aurait pas été ouf ouf à annoncer à ces parents.

Bref, il revient me chercher et on finit par chopper le bateau, tous les héros ne portent pas de cape.