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Top 10 Visa-Free Destinations For Malaysian Budget Travellers

This article was updated on July 22, 2018 to reflect recently received information.

S ometimes the wanderlust bug bites and never lets us go. For many Malaysians, it’s a case of ‘so many places to go, so little time and money’. The last bit is particularly true as our currency continues to slide, but does that mean we should just stay at home?

As long as you’re ready to forgo the 3-star and above hotel rooms, eat locally, and do a bit more walking than usual, you’re good to go! With the budget travel market growing exponentially, new and exciting destinations and travel options are opening up.

On top of that, the   Malaysian passport has been ranked as the fifth strongest in the world , providing visa-free or visa on arrival access to nearly 154 countries. Here are our top picks of budget destinations that Malaysians can travel to visa-free:

1. Siem Reap, Cambodia

The majority of tourists visiting this country will flock to Siem Reap, home to the massive Hindu temple ruins of  Angkor Wat.

Despite its growing popularity, Cambodia remains one of cheapest travel destinations in South East Asia. It’s also not difficult to find accommodation at reasonable rates. The local food is also affordable, and even a Western meal at a restaurant will not burn a hole in your pocket. For transport, the most budget-friendly way to move around Siem Reap is to hire a  tuk-tuk  (auto rickshaw) or rent a bike.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Siem Reap : From RM350 per person

Best time to visit : May to early October

2. Hanoi, Vietnam

The capital of Vietnam is a mix of colonial French architecture and modern buildings, a bustling city that’s charmed many visitors. Hanoi’s best known landmark is Hoan Kiem Lake that’s right smack in the centre of town, while outside the city, Halong Bay is particularly popular as a side trip

What makes Hanoi a good budget travel destination is the abundance of well-furnished budget hotels, reasonably-priced public transport, and a variety of cheap food and drinks.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Hanoi : From RM350 per person

Best time to visit : September to November

Read also: 10 Tips For Women Travelling To Hanoi

3. yogyakarta, indonesia.

Located in Java, Yogyakarta (also pronounced ‘Jogjakarata’) is famous for the ancient Buddhist temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. The city, which is still ruled by a Sultan, exudes an air of traditional elegance and locals are very protective about their culture.

Budget travellers can find loads of cheap accommodation along Jalan Sastrowijayan, where you’ll also find many pocket-friendly dining options, massage salons, and souvenir shops. Yogyakarta has a great bus network that covers the entire city, with fares starting from IDR3,600 (approximately RM1.20).

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Yogyakarta:  From RM380 per person

Best time to visit : April to September

4. Busan, South Korea

South Korea’s second largest city is a replica of its capital, Seoul, with the added attraction of gorgeous beaches and sparkling seas. Surrounded by mountain ranges, Busan is home to hidden Buddhist temples, high-end infrastructure, chic shopping boutiques, traditional markets, fresh sea food, and amazingly fast Internet that’s available for free at all cafes and restaurants.

For travellers on a shoestring, the city offers many dormitory-style accommodation and guest houses that are safe, hygienic and well-maintained. Being a coastal city, cheap seafood is easily available and you can also find a good variety of street food. The best way to move around the city is via the subway, which connects commuters to almost all major tourist attractions.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Busan : From RM1000 per person

Best time to visit:  July to September, and November to February (for a winter experience)

Read also:  10 Practical Tips For Women Travelling To Seoul

5. kathmandu, nepal.

Kathmandu is still recovering from a massive earthquake that shook the country in 2015. Tourism is an important source of livelihood for many who’ve lost their families and properties in one of the worst calamities in decades. By visiting Nepal, you’re helping to rebuild the country and revive their economy. It’s one of the best budget travel destinations and a day in the capital city will not require you to spend more than NPR1,200 (about RM150).

Kathmandu is a fascinating city to visit, with its many Buddhist temples, colourful festivals, surrounding mountain ranges and friendly locals. If you enjoy hiking and trekking, head to Pokhara. Not only is it cheaper than Kathmandu, it’s also the gateway to the Annapurna circuit and home to some fantastic treks.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Kathmandu : From RM1350 per person

Best time to visit : February to mid-April and December to January

Read:  Advice For Travelling Kathmandu After The Earthquake

6. auckland, new zealand.

Auckland is EXPENSIVE! So why then is it mentioned in this list of budget travel destinations?

Here’s why: New Zealand offers  working holiday visas to Malaysian citizens  who are keen to explore the country but don’t have too much money to splurge. The visa allows you to undertake odd jobs at coffee shops and hostels, as well as labour jobs on farms. That means you can earn money while you explore the North and South islands and take in what many agree are among the world’s most stunning landscapes.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Auckland : From RM2000 per person

Best time to visit : February to May

7. Cairo, Egypt

Amidst the political unrest, many have forgotten that Egypt is the birthplace of human civilisation and that reason alone is good enough to add Cairo to your bucket list. From ruins to pyramids, ornate mosques to night markets and camel rides, there’s plenty to explore and experience.

If you plan well, hostels and hotels in Cairo can be booked at surprisingly low rates. Also, bargaining is big, which means you can stretch your tourist dollar quite well. Where food is concerned, there is nothing quite as flavourful as Middle-Eastern cuisine and you will find rows of street stalls selling  kebab s (grilled meat),  shawarma s (rotisserie meat),  kushari (rice, macaroni and lentils),  and  mahshi  (stuffed grape leaves). You can satisfy your palate without burning a hole in your pocket.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Cairo : From RM2000 per person

Best time to visit : November to February (winter months)

Read also:  10 Things Every Woman Travelling To Cairo Needs To Know

8. lisbon, portugal.

Clearly an underrated travel destination in Europe, Portugal is slowly making its way into the backpacker’s market. Its capital city, Lisbon, is a Mediterranean dream with a dazzling coastline, sandy beaches, stunning architecture, good weather all year round, a great selection of food and wine, and a range of tourist activities you can try for free.

Family-run inns are a good accommodation option, and you’ll find that the locals are very friendly. Public transport is pretty inexpensive or you may want to rent a bike. For easy-on-the-pocket dining options, stick to local bakeries or trawl local markets for fresh produce so you can and whip up an easy meal yourself.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Lisbon : From RM3250 per person

Best time to visit : All year round

9. Sofia, Bulgaria

While hordes of tourists flock to Western Europe, most of Eastern Europe waits to be explored. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, has been named one of the best hidden gems in the continent, and also its cheapest major city. The capital is best explored on a walking tour and there are plenty of those, many of them free.

What’s most charming is the city’s skyline, filled with churches and cathedrals, interspersed with modern buildings and colonial structures. It’s an interesting mix that highlights the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Takeaway meals are affordable, and local bakeries are also a great option for dining on a budget.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Lisbon : From RM3500 per person

Best time to visit : November – February

10. Mexico City, Mexico

A quién no le gusta México ? Many travel bloggers describe  Mexico City  as a chaotic mess, yet swear to return to this colourful metropolis that entices with its old-world architecture, quaint neighbourhoods, open parks, and free museums. Art, culture and music are big business and a major attraction in Mexico City, creating enough entertainment options to keep you occupied throughout your visit.

Food is a big part of the experience, and you’ll be spoilt for choice with the myriad options for food and drink. Don’t miss the tacos (what tortilla with filling) from humble kiosks run by Mexican abuelas (grandmothers). The one area where you’ll feel the pinch is with the airfare, but besides that, Mexico City is an affordable holiday destination.

Return air fare from Kuala Lumpur to Mexico City : From RM5000 per person

Best time to visit : December to April

* Disclaimer:  The airfares mentioned are on the basis of the cheapest possible route from Kuala Lumpur, and are subject to change. Keep in mind that for the best fares, bookings should be made 4 -6 months prior.

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Nafisa was born with a curiosity streak that often makes her wander and wonder to and about places she would never have been to. Travelling, zumba and coffee keep her happy along with a good fiction novel.

8 Beautiful Women-Friendly Beaches (& Beach Parties) In Thailand

Travel & Expat Blog

18 relaxing short getaways from kuala lumpur, what's on this page.

Looking for a list of relaxing weekend getaways from Kuala Lumpur? As a local with a passion for travel, I’ve rounded up my favourite stays to help you plan your trip.

O ne of the biggest perks as a teacher expat in KL are all the knockout holidays. With bags of beach retreats, tropical islands, zen-busting jungle escapes and culture trips, Malaysia doesn’t fall short on epic vacations. And what’s equally awesome, is that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy them.

For those lazy weekends or week-long staycations where you don’t fancy travelling that far or want the option to just jump in the car and head somewhere green or blue, I thought I’d round up all my favourite trips on the Malay Peninsula, aka West Malaysia.

In this post you’ll find a carefully curated, 2-years-in-the-making list of getaways from Kuala Lumpur that I recommend to my friends. And just for you guys I’ve added some inspiring bonus breaks still on my bucket list (in case you get there before I do), plus a handful that come highly-rated by fellow expats.

Ready for some quality Malaysia juice for your holiday planning? Grab a cuppa because this one’s pretty meaty! 🤙🏻

What to expect

Whilst it may not be as cheap to holiday in Malaysia compared to other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand or Cambodia, you still get a lot of bang for your buck. Generally, a 5* resort here will cost about half that of the UK, with a decent array of no frills budget stays.

Compared to other countries in the region, I also find travelling in Malaysia a lot easier. Communicating and getting around is simple as most Malaysians speak good English, the infrastructure is more developed and car travel is relatively easy-breezy ( tips below ). I’ve always found Malaysians to be very fair and honest too so I’ve never had to worry about being overcharged for services, unlike quite a few experiences elsewhere.

Travel Hack!

If you’re booking hotels in Malaysia but you’re based outside of the country, then change your VPN to a Malaysian network for cheaper rates on hotel sites like Booking.com. I noticed this when I was in Australia booking stays in Malaysia and couldn’t figure out why it was more expensive!

List Of My Favourite Short Getaways From Kuala Lumpur

1. Country Retreat : Mangala Resort & Spa

Location: Gambang, near Kuantan on the east coast Getting there: 2h30 drive from KL

This is one of the nicest, most relaxing stays I’ve had in Malaysia. After an easy drive from KL, you’re transported to a nature haven, filled with 60 acres of gorgeous wetlands, lakes and fruit farms.

As well as the lush environment, fresh air and ace hospitality, we were also won over by the incredible luxury villas. Our suite was spacious and beautifully kitted out with a private pool – it was such as bonus.

I thought I’d miss being by the beach staying here, but I didn’t at all. It’s just as chilled, if not more, and you’re surrounded by water all the time anyway.

Days can be spent lazing around your private pool, or the communal infinity pool and jacuzzi which overlooks the lake. Or grab a free bicycle and leisurely peddle through the palm trees before heading to the spa and indulging in a heavenly massage (highly recommend!).

Read more about Mangala Resort in my recent article .

Cost: Starting at around RM 635 per night (approx. $220 AUD or £123 GBP). For the best rates and Genius discounts, I booked my room via  Booking.com .

2. Private Island Escape: Pangkor Laut

Location: West peninsular in Perak, off Pangkor island Getting there: 3-hour drive north of KL, followed by a 15 15-minute speedboat ride

This is, by far, the most luxurious resort I’ve ever stayed at. I don’t do them often! But when a 5* resort on a private island is on your doorstep, it’d be rude to turn it down. Especially when it costs less to stay here than a bog-standard hotel in London’s Notting Hill.

Pavarotti once described this island as a paradise, and I’d say he was bang on. Pangkor Laut island is made up of 300 acres of lush virgin rainforest, which has been virtually untouched by the resort. Wild hornbills roam freely, the jungle hums loudly and eco tourism is encouraged here. That’s my perfect kind of cocktail.

Our room was insane. So much so, that the Sailor and I were taking pictures for about half an hour when we arrived! It was well kitted out with his and her sinks, an outdoor bathtub and incredible jaw-dropping views from our hilltop verandah.

Morning coffees with that scenery were made extra special with hornbills perched above us in the trees and the gentle buzzing of the ancient rainforest.

Mostly you come here to relax, but there’s a few things to do on the island like taking a hike through the rainforest to Emerald Bay Beach, which I’d highly recommend.

Pangkor Laut Resort is ideal for that special occasion and definitely one of those getaways from Kuala Lumpur you should experience [at least] once. Check out my latest article  to find out more details.

Cost: Not cheap, but worth it for a treat. Rooms start at around RM 1’100 per night (approx. $390 AUD or £213 GBP). For genius discounts, free cancellation & a pay later option, book via Booking.com . Or if you live in Malaysia then you can book a resident’s package directly with the resort which includes all food and boat transfers.

3. Quick Beach Getaway: Langkawi

Location:  Off the northwestern peninsular, in Kedah Getting there: 1-hour flight from KL, or a 6-hour drive to Kuala Perlis + a 1.25hr ferry

To be truthful, I wasn’t a big fan of Langkawi when I first visited. Compared to other large holiday islands in Thailand like Koh Phangan and Koh Chang, I thought it was a bit plain Jane. This was probably because I stayed in a really crappy apartment (which wasn’t at all as described in the reviews!) in an area of the island that was a bit run down. And that was the last time I let the Sailor book a holiday!

But the second time was a completely different experience. I booked a much nicer stay on a better part of the island and got to experience those chillaxed island feels that KLites eat up for breakfast. I guess, you’ve just got to know where to go.

If you want an island escape a mere hour’s flight from KL and land [almost] on the beach, then Langkawi is probably the only place you’re going to get it. I had many teacher friends who regularly visited the island and one who went 12 times in three years! Needless to say, it’s a convenient beach getaway.

Cenang Beach is the main tourist spot and can get a little commercial (although it’s still relatively quiet by Thai standards), but it has the goods to back it up with powder-soft white sand and turquoise water. It’s a pukka sundowner spot or place to beach-bum for the day.

There’s quite a bit to explore either on the beach or in the jungle, which I unfortunately didn’t have much time for. You should check out Langkawi blogger Vanessa Workman at This Island Drum for some good recommendations.

Langkawi is also a great one for families due to the easy transfer, more family friendly hotels and developed infrastructure. If you’re a luxury resort seeker, then the island houses many high-end stays.

Accommodation:  I stayed just south of Cenang at Aloft Hotel , which was a 5 minute walk from Tengah Beach. It’s more peaceful down this way and there’s an awesome beach bar you should check out called Dash Beach Club . Prices starting at around RM 430 per night (approx. $150 AUD or £83 GBP).

4. Small Island Vibes: Koh Lipe

Location:  Near the Thai/Malaysian border on the west coast (in the Adang-Rawi Archipelago) Getting there: Head to Langkawi (see above) then take a 1h30 boat ride ~ NOTE: This option is only available in the dry season folks (October to late June) as the boat route ceases for monsoon. Otherwise you’ve got to take the long speedboat ride from Phuket.

This little gem oozes those small island vibes that Langkawi misses. Often described as the Maldives of Thailand, Koh Lipe offers affordable luxury. With extra-fine powdery white sand that crunches between your toes and show-stopping crystalline water. Once you’ve experienced Koh Lipe’s coastline you might, just might run the risk of becoming a bit of a beach snob! 😳

Idle days can spent catching up on beach time, or kayaking to secluded ones on neighbouring Koh Adang. This equally beautiful island is also a good spot for some jungle hiking, offering a waterfall in the wet season and a top-to-toe lookout of Koh Lipe.

However, it’s worth noting that Koh Lipe it’s still continuing to grow in popularity and can get relatively busy during peak seasons. I was quite surprised at how much busier it was the second time I visited.

Whilst it’s still not as bad as many Thai islands in the northern Andaman (as it’s the farthest south), we can still do our little bit to help ensure our stay doesn’t put unnecessary strain on this little island.

Accommodation: Although I didn’t manage to stay at Castaway Resort because each time I tried to book they were full, the accommodation looks like great value for money and the restaurant was always my go-to for lip-smacking Thai food. Prices start at around RM 127  per night (approx. $45 AUD or £24 GBP).

5. Rainforest Haven: The Dusun

Location: Seremban, opposite the Berembun Forest Reserve Getting there:  1h30 drive, just south of KL

I love this little place. There are plenty of jungle stays near KL but The Dusun ticks all the boxes for me- complete with comfy accommodation, remoteness and undisturbed views of virgin rainforest.

At every glance was a majestic sea of green which came alive with the gentle buzzing of well-chorused cicadas. Honestly, I came here feeling under the weather and was miraculously well again after 10 minutes of checking in … this place has healing powers!

There’s not much to do here apart from pool hang, wind down and let the scenery do the talking – which is why its such a chilled getaway. You’re willingly encouraged to slow down and be at one with nature, and yourself.

It was also really great that the resort is self-catering with a kitchen in each bungalow (including a BBQ), making it feel like a home away from home. But if you can’t be bothered, they have a restaurant on site too. Read more about The Dusun Resort in my post .

Cost:  Starting at around RM480 per night (approx. $170 AUD) via Booking.com . I booked the Lanai House which was nicely secluded and not overlooked. It was slightly more expensive, but totally worth it.

6. Awesome Value For Money Islands: Perhentians

Location:  On the northwest coast, in state of Terengganu Getting there:  Take a 1hr flight to Kota Bharu, then a 1h taxi ride to the jetty, followed by a 40min boat ride to the islands. See more details in my article .

Note: The Perhentians is only available outside of the Monsoon season (late Jan/beginning of Feb – late October) as the boat ride ceases and most resorts close.

In Peninsular Malaysia, you have to head to the east coast islands for Maldivian-style beaches. Thankfully the Perhentians not only has heaps to explore- with awesome snorkelling- but the islands are great value for money compared to many other touristy ones along this coastline.

Both coral-fringed islands (Besar ‘big’ and Kecil ‘small’) offer serene turquoise seas and powdery white sand. Nowhere is too far, and nothing runs too fast.

They were the first inhabited islands I’ve visited that don’t have roads, and it was awesome being forced into barefoot luxury. Forget Uber guys, you can sink your toes in the sand and leisurely stroll from bed to beach, or take a cheap boat taxi to explore the islands.

Other than beach lounging, snorkelling, and eating your weight in fresh seafood BBQ’s (head to Tuna Bay Resort for that goodness) it was fun to leave the sun bathers behind and take a peaceful jungle hike (check out my hiking route for Kecil and Besar ) – earning your beach time is always more satisfying.

Accommodation: 5-star resorts don’t exist here and rooms are generally quite pricey for what you get, but there’s some good value-for-money stays to consider which you can check out my article .

7. Culture Trip: Penang

Location:  This ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is located on the northwest peninsular Getting there:  Drive in about 4hrs, or take a 1 hr flight

Penang is like Melaka’s bigger and better brother and by far Malaysia’s food and culture capital.

And nope, it’s not where the Penang curry originates and it’s nothing like Phuket (just me that had those assumptions? 🤷🏻‍♀️ ..the cheese stands alone!). In fact, if you haven’t been, it’s probably quite different to anywhere you’ve visited before.

This UNESCO World Heritage city often stops tourists in their tracks. If you’re not marvelling at the street art and impressive architecture (think Chinese clan houses and grand colonial builds) then you’re being sucked down pretty lantern-lit lanes.

George Town is Penang’s relaxed, semi-sleepy hipster capital. It’s one of the only places you can stroll around in half an hour and experience multi-faith and multicultural Malaysia ~ from Chinatown, to Little India and an array of mosques, shrines and temples.

While most visitors head to Penang for the culture, for Malaysians it’s more about the food.

The locals I’ve spoken to say the food is different and better in Penang. Whilst fancier restaurants are available, most of the best food is undoubtedly on the street at hawker stalls, so don’t be afraid to explore them. My Lonely Planet book  came in handy in recommending some to try, as did my guesthouse. Otherwise, a safe bet is just to pull up a chair anywhere that’s busy.

Penang isn’t Malaysia’s best beach destination (there’s not many of them and they’re not all great), but you can still find a few decent spots to chill in Batu Ferringhi or Monkey Beach.

If you’re looking for more to do, I’d recommend hiking through the National Park which has a well-maintained track that leads to a quiet beach. Or you should check out the charming Tropical Spice Garden and make a stop at their pukka Thai restaurant. 😋

The Sailor and I booked our hotel for a few days, but ended up extending our stay for a week. George Town is a must see if you’re living in KL.

Accommodation:

• George Town: I had a great stay at Magpie Heritage Hideaway , a cute family run guesthouse. The room was well-styled and spacious, located in a quiet part of George Town but close enough to all the best bits, although I’m not sure they’re operating anymore as dates seem to be booked out on Agoda. However there’s this stay on the same road called Tien Hotel Georgetown that also looks like a great option and for the same price, rooms start at around RM 260   per night (approx. $87 AUD or £48 GBP). Otherwise, You Le Yuen on Love Lane (such romantic real estate!) is highly rated budget-friendly stay, or Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion is a characterful heritage hotel with a few more frills.
• If you’re after beachside accommodation in the Batu Ferringhi area, there are quite a few to choose from. I’m quite a fan of DoubleTree by Hilton , but the Hard Rock Hotel and Shangri-La have also been recommended by other expats, and it’s a particularly good choice for families.

Travelling with kiddos? Check out HappyGoKL’s blog post to find out more about what to do in Penang with Kids.

Short Getaway From Kuala Lumpur: The Bucket List

8. where the locals & expats go: kapas island.

Location: On the northeast coast (about 95k south of the Perhentians) Getting there:  Take a 55 min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 30 min taxi ride to Marang jetty (not to be mistaken for Merang in the north which shows up on Google…see the map below!), followed by a 15 min boat ride (your guesthouse will let you know the departure times and which boat to get).

Note: Kapas is only available outside of the Monsoon season (Feb – late October).

Kapas is a small, less-touristy island where the locals and expats go for a quiet escape. Being an east coast isle, the beaches hit the spot (although they’re perhaps not as striking as the Perhentians and Redang) and the marine life offers an abundance of fish species, turtles and even reef sharks.

Accommodation: I’m super bummed that I didn’t make it here before I migrated from KL, but the accommodation I was after was booked out. Kapas only has a handful of guesthouses and not all are reviewed favourably. If you’re looking for luxury accommodation then you won’t find it here, but there are a couple of places offering a comfortable stay at a reasonable price.

• Kapas Beach Resort (KBC): My teacher friends highly recommend this place and have stayed on a number of occasions (it might appear a bit confusing online as there’s two KBC’s- one is good and one isn’t- this is the good one!). It’s run by a Dutch man called Hans and the rooms are a really good rate (around RM 200). Bookings can be made by contacting Hans via Whatsapp (+60 19-343-5606) where he’ll send you pictures and all info via text. Prices start at RM 145 for a Garden View Room (fan only) to RM 209 for a Seabird room with Air-Con (approx. $51 – $74 AUD or £28-£40 GBP). There’s a 2 nights minimum stay.
• Kapas Turtle Valley Resort : This place is also owned by a Dutch couple and the reviews are good. Rates vary from RM 270 for a beach Bungalow (2-3 pax) to RM 560 for the Hornbill Beach Family Bungalow (6-7 pax). Check them out online .

Or for a little more indulgence, next to Kapas is a smaller, private island owned by Gem Island Resort & Spa , which a friend stayed at and enjoyed. A Water Villa cost RM450 per night (approx. $160 AUD or £80).

9. Cave Hideaway: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Location:  Ipoh, 200k north of KL Getting there: 2h30 drive

This place has been on my radar for ages, but I’m only allowed one luxury resort a year! 😔 (First world problems eh).

The Banjaran sits pretty on a 23-acre valley, around ancient limestone hills bordering the rainforest. Similarly to Pangkor Laut Resort and Mangala, this is the place you come to indulge and completely relax. Except when you’re chilling here, you’ve got geothermal hot springs as dipping pools and rock formations to gawp at around them.

Jeff’s Cellar (one of their three restaurants) is even set inside a cave and looks like a one-to-one date set-up on The Bachelor, if it was sucked into a Harry Potter film – dreamy and mystical.

Plus, each villa (choose from the garden, water or lake) has its own private pool and hot tub. I had a friend who visited and was of course, in the zen den the whole time.

As The Banjaran is located in Ipoh , it’s a good opportunity to explore this George Town-esque, quaint old mining town, popular for its street art, food and cave temples (check out Kek Lok Tong and Perak Tong ). It’s also right next to the Ulu Kinta Forest Reserve, which is meant to have heaps of rainforest hiking trails.

Cost:  It’s steep, but perhaps you’ve got a b-day coming up? 😉 Starting at around RM 1’300 per night (approx. $460 AUD or £250 GBP). For the best rates and Genius discounts, check out Booking.com .

A bit out of your budget? Check out eco-friendly resort The Haven  for another a peaceful stay close to Ipoh.

10. Rafting, Caving & Hiking: Adventure in Gopeng

Location: In Perak (20k south of Ipoh & 180k north of KL) Getting there: 2 hour drive from KL

Situated just outside of the old tin-mining town centre are local kampungs (villages) and rainforest lined with eco-guesthouses. As well as relaxing amidst the rural setting, people come to Gopeng for white water rafting and caving adventures. It’s also just 20k south of Ipoh, so it could be a part of a longer road trip.

There are multiple companies to take adrenaline junkies out on the rapids, which is even suitable for kids when the water level is low. Check out recommended operator Riverbug.Asia or NomadAdventure , who also offer a range of other fun adventures in the area like waterfall abseiling at Geruntum Falls.

For added thrills and stoke, taking a ‘wet’ tour at Tempurung Cave is highly rated. It will get you down and dirty, crawling through dark tunnels in the largest cave system in Malaysia; not for the faint-hearted! Scaredy cats (and families) can do the easier ‘dry’ tour which is a relatively easy 45 minute walk.

Hikers can also take a relatively easy, self-guided trek through Bukit Batu Putih  which boasts panoramic views of the hilly terrain.

For more adventurous hikes you’ll probably need a guide to take you deeper into the jungle. Popular 5km+ treks are through the thick and hilly forests of Ulu Geroh to spot the carnivorous Rafflesia flower. Many tour operators offer this trip (including Riverbug & NomadAdventure).

Accommodation: I would personally choose to stay at Sementra Hot Spring Nature Resort which looks super idyllic. It’s built around a lake and immersed in nature with a rainforest backdrop, has a swimming pool with water sourced from the mountains and a hot spring on site. Prices start at RM 530 per night (approx. $176 AUD or £90 GBP).

Otherwise eco-guesthouse Hijau @ Gopeng offer spacious rooms and are committed to sustainability. Prices start at RM 430 per night for a villa with a private plunge pool (approx. $145 AUD or £75 GBP).

11. Sustainable Jungle Farmstay: Permaculture Perak

Location: In Perak, 77k north of Ipoh Getting there: A 3hr drive to Lenggong, where you’ll be picked up by your hosts in their 4WD (needed for the rough terrain)

Permaculture Perak won’t be everybody’s cup of tea. But if you’re up for a completely off-the-grid experience, as far away from city life that you can imagine (but not quite a weekend on Survivor), then this jungle farm stay could be for you.

Perched atop a mountain, 500m above sea level, the farm is said to have utterly enchanting views. Waking up to a setting blanket of cloud in the nearby valley, listening to distant gibbons and hornbills is definitely otherworldly. Sometimes they even get wild elephants wandering by at the wee hours.

Owners Czech-born Kuta, an ex-structural engineer who left corporate KL and his wife Tan, a pilates instructor, have created a completely self-sufficient retreat.

Apart from growing all their own food on-site, they also source drinking water from the mountain (and shower with sourced water from the river), use minimal electricity from their homemade solar power system and recycle or reuse all waste for composting. I’ve read also that Kuta makes his own beer…well, he is from Pilsen.

There are 5 simplistic rooms available, and a natural wading pool. You can pre-book a tour of their sustainable farm to find out more about their practices and there are a number of other nature/eco-based activities on offer (see their website for details). Or you can just hike to the nearby waterfall for solitude and remoteness.

You can find out more about Permaculture Perak by reading this Malay Mail article , or by watching this National Geographic doco . 

Cost: Adults : RM 225 pp /per night (approx. $79 AUD or £43) and kids : RM 165. Booking: e-mail them to book ~ Permaculture.Perak(at)gmail.com

12. Blissful Beaches: Redang Island

Location: On the northwest coast (in between the Perhentians and Kapas) Getting there: Take a 55 min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 15 min taxi ride to Shahbandar Jetty, followed by a 40 min boat ride.

Note: Most resorts close during the Monsoon season (late October – Feb/March).

I was always keen to visit Redang but wan’t a fan of the price tag, considering I could book a decent beachfront cabana for as low as RM 200 in the Perhentians. But if you have a slightly bigger budget, then the island is meant to house some of the best beaches in Peninsular Malaysia.

Redang doesn’t really have the backpacker crowd that’s visible on Perhentian Kecil, which is probably a reflection of the resort costs. But it does have multiple beaches to frolic around in, with the most popular being Long Beach where most resorts are located. Otherwise, grab a kayak and find some others, like Teluk Dalam Besar or Teluk Kalong .

Another popular pastime on Redang is snorkelling and scuba diving. You might even be lucky enough to spot turtles as the island is home to the most amount of nesting green turtles in Peninsula Malaysia. Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary is located on the northwest end of the island, and whilst the beach is off-limits to tourists, it’s open for volunteers on a weekly basis from April to September (see their website for further details.)

Accommodation: Out of the 9 resorts listed on Booking.com, only 2 have a rating 8.0 or above. (There’s even one with a 5.4 score, which charges over RM 400 per night 😳). Here are the nicer two:

• Laguna Redang Island Resort:  This place looks comfortable with spacious rooms and a great beachfront location. Although some negative review comments say that resort is really big and can get pretty busy as it caters for large groups. Average price per night is RM 670 (approx. $235AUD or £130 GBP). via Booking.com
• The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort: This is the fanciest resort on the island and I’ve had friends stay here who really enjoyed it. It has it’s own secluded beach so it’s quieter than Long Beach, although the snorkelling is perhaps not quite as good in this spot. The rooms are spacious and modern, with a private balcony. The resort also has 4 dining options and guests here can take a 1.5hr speedboat ride directly from the airport. Average price per night is RM 800 (approx. $280AUD or £154 GBP). via Booking.com

13. East Coast Traditional Luxury: Tanjong Jara Resort

Location: Northwest coast, in Dungun (Terengganu) Getting there: 4 hr drive, 370k from KL

Tajong Jara is another YTL hotel on the Peninsular (the same owners as Pangkor Laut Resort) so you can expect the same luxuriousness. It’s also about 1/3 less in price and if you go for the residents package, then you’ll have brekkie, lunch and dinner included. Life’s little wins.

This 5* luxury resort sits at the end of a long, crescent beach. It won’t boast crystal clear water (you’ll have to go on a snorkelling trip to Tenggol island for that) but looks ideal for a daily stroll, or gazing out on whilst contemplating life.

Also on offer are: two pools (both with bars), three restaurants, plus a range of experiences on offer like jungle trekking to Chemerung Waterfall, diving or bike touring.

For a bit of fauna, there’s a turtle hatchery next to their Nelayan restaurant in collaboration with Lang Tengah Turtle Watch. Between May and October, guests are welcome to view the daily nest inspections and, if you’re lucky, you may be able to witness baby turtles being released into the ocean.

Otherwise, it’s said that there’s plenty of monkeys around the resort (don’t forget to shut your terrace doors!) as well as the odd peacock and monitor lizard.

Cost:  Starting at around RM 686 per night (approx. $220AUD or £135 GBP). For genius discounts, free cancellation & a pay later option, book via Booking.com . Or if you live in Malaysia and want the resident’s package, you can book directly with the resort .

Extra Getaways from Kuala Lumpur 🤙🏼

14. east coast beach break : club med cherating resort.

Location: East coast, in Pahang Getting there: 3h30 drive, 280k from KL

This is a great choice for families as it’s all-inclusive with a kids club. It might look a bit steep in price all up, but you won’t need to pay for anything when you’re there. The package includes all food, drinks (with a full bar… cocktails too 😉) and a range of activities like tree-top adventures and fly trapeze.

The beach won’t rival the Perhentians or Redang but will offer endless bucket-and-spade fun for the kids, or you can hang by either of their two pools.

Cost:  Not cheap, but everything is included. Starting at around RM 2640 for a 2-night stay (the minimum) (approx. $928AUD or £510 GBP). To find out more or to book, head to the resort website .

Accommodation out of your budget? You could stay at The Kasturi Resort in Cherating instead (approx. RM 530 per night) and just pop over to Club Med for the day!

15. Island Staycation: Tioman Islands

Location: Off the southeast coast, in Pahang Getting there:  A bit of a pain as the nearest airport in Johor is a 2-hour taxi ride away! (Although that should mean fewer tourists). The easiest way is a 4hr drive to Mersing Jetty (or get a bus , but this will take even longer), followed by a 1.5-2hr ferry ride. Do take note of ferry times as most seem to leave before midday, and are subject to delays due to tides and storms.

If you’ve already ventured to the Perhentians, Kapas and Redang, then you might be ready for a different east coast island.

Due to its generous size and low-scale development, Tioman is said to be even more laid-back than those ☝🏼 mentioned. It also sounds a bit more basic and rustic, but the highlights are the relaxed beach vibes, snorkelling and rigorous jungle hikes.

Accommodation: There are quite a few decent-looking stays on Booking.com, with good reviews. Generally, the accommodation comprises of more simplistic chalets (with poor wifi), but there are a couple of fancier stays with their own bit of beach, if you’ve got the budget for it.

• Bushman Tioman : I’d go for this one if I was visiting Tioman as it looks like good value for money. Basic rooms, all with a balcony and it’s right on the beach. Priced at RM 300 per night (approx. $105 AUD or £58 GBP). via Booking.com

Bushman not your cup of tea? Check out other Tioman hotels on Booking.com

16. Cooler Climes: Cameron Highlands

Location: Pahang highlands Getting there:  3 hr drive, 205k north of KL

I was really excited to visit Cameron Highlands before coming to Malaysia, but unfortunately, our visit didn’t really do it justice. Our hotel ended up being a 2-hour drive away (that was the second to last time the Sailor booked our holiday 🤦🏻‍♀️), and we went on a bank holiday weekend so the traffic was a nightmare. Plus, we had a car accident on the way back from our hotel, which wasn’t our the Sailor’s fault.

But don’t let my sorry tale put you off! Book a decent hotel actually ‘in’ the highlands, outside of a public holiday, and you should be okay. Although avoiding weekends altogether would be ideal as it’s said to get busy regardless.

Cameron Highlands is characterful with intriguing colonial buildings rooted with history, and fields of rolling tea plantations. You can find English style pubs, get outdoors on hiking trails and experience cooler climes in the high altitude. Read more about how to plan a trip here on Lonely Planet .

Accommodation: There are quite a few cute colonial hotels with great reviews, although I’d be mindful of those that cater for big groups so as to avoid them!

If I was booking to stay here again, I’d check out The Smokehouse . It’s set inside an extremely quaint, traditional Tudor-style building with views of its award-winning gardens. I stopped by the restaurant before which is a well-preserved, old English country pub. Even if you don’t stay here, you should definitely stop by. Prices start at  RM 396 per night and come with breakfast (approx. $140AUD or £77 GBP).

Fancy other highlands? Why not check out Genting Highland’s ‘ Good Vibes ‘ music fest in July, or take a day trip to Fraser Hill.

17. Escape the Crowds: Sibu Island

Location: Off the southeast coast (63k south of Tioman) Getting there: 5-hour drive to Tanjung Leman Jetty, then a 30-40 minute boat ride.

What, you haven’t had enough of the east coast islands yet? Okay, here’s one more. 🤙🏼

I realise travelling this far down the coast is a bit more of a sacrifice, but sometimes the rewards are greater when you go those extra miles. It should mean that Sibu offers a more authentic island experience and won’t be heaving with big groups from KL, although it’s quite popular with Singaporeans due to its close proximity.

The island itself is teeny with a population of fewer than 100 in the main kampung (village). The coastline is rugged and the beaches are golden, with lush green vegetation engulfing the middle of this 6km by 1km isle.

As with most other east coast islands, snorkelling and diving is a popular pastime, as well as hiking through the jungle.

Accommodation: There’s only a handful of resorts located on the north end of the island. I’d personally go for these ones:

• Rimba Resort: Simplistic chalets with a fan and balcony, situated on it’s own bit of beach. Around RM 420 per night with breakfast (approx. $147AUD or £81 GBP). via Booking.com
• Sea Gypsy Resort: Rustic and clean chalets with a balcony, in an eco-friendly and family friendly resort. Starts at RM 220 per night, per person (approx. $77AUD or £42 GBP) , but includes all food. Book via their website .

18. Low-Key Hideout: Lang Tengah Island

Location: Off the northeast coast Getting there: Take a 55 min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 30 min taxi ride to Merang jetty, followed by a 45 min boat ride ( check here for boat times ).

Note: Resorts close during the Monsoon season (mid-late October to Feb).

Here’s another alternative island on the East Coast (the last one I promise!)

Lang Tengah is situated between the Perhentians and Redang (its name means ‘eagle in the middle’) so boasts white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and a rich marine life that’s synonymous with the region.

Unlike its two neighbours, Lang Tengah is said to be more low-key, but slightly more upmarket than Kapas because of the accommodation offerings. There are only three resorts spread over four beaches, and each is easily accessible on foot or via boat taxi.

Marine life includes rays, reef sharks and turtles. Or for more impressive views, there’s a 25-minute hiking trail through the jungle to Batu Kuching.

Lang Tengah Turtle Watch operate on the island too (the guys who have teamed up with Tanjoong Jara Resort) and offer a volunteer programme between May and October, with a minimum stay of 1-week. Turtles also occasionally go to nest near D’Coconut Lagoon.

Accommodation: Here are the three resorts available on the island, from the cheapest to the most pricey.

• D’Coconut Lagoon: Spacious, simple rooms with A/C, a balcony and breakfast. This resort is divided into the ‘West Wing’ and ‘East Wing’, which sit on separate beaches and have a restaurant & swimming pool. They can both be accessed via a short jungle path. Prices start at RM 190 per night with breakfast (approx. $66AUD or £36 GBP). Book via their website (they’re not on Booking.com)…I’d go for this place if visiting the island.
• Sari Pacifica Resort: A mid range option, but perhaps not as value for money if you go for the most expensive rooms (I’d probably go fo the Garden Villa). Rooms have A/C and brekkie is included, although the food reviews are a mixed bag. Starts at RM 260 per night (approx. $91AUD or £50 GBP). via Booking.com .
• Summer Bay Resort: Simple rooms all with A/C and brekkie. The beach out front is said to be stunning, although the resort seems to frequently cater for large groups of tourists and has recently expanded to meet the demand. Starts at RM 488 per night (approx. $171AUD or £94 GBP). via Booking.com .

Looking for even more lesser-known East Coast isles? Why not check out Pulau Babi Besar , Rawa Island, Pulau Tinggi or for a special occasion, Batu Batu Resort on the private island of Pulau Tengah .

Wow, that was epic! Well done if you read till the end.

You may have noticed my penchant for tropical islands, but I think a lot of the lesser-known East Coast isles get overlooked so I wanted to show them some love.

However, there are plenty of short getaways from Kuala Lumpur for every kind of traveller, whether you’re seeking beach time, jungle time, adventure or culture.

Whatever you choose, I hope you have a blast.

Getting Around & Travel Tips

As Uber was bought by Grab in Malaysia over a year ago, Grab is the platform I use daily. You can book via the app and the exact price is given upon booking (except for tolls), unlike Uber which only estimates.

It’s a good option for travelling to/from KL airport to KL (approx. RM 65 as a base price, or around RM 85 with tolls included) or getting to a jetty.

As Grab has the monopoly, they’ve been getting a bit cheekier recently and can hike prices steeply during peak times. If a rate seems a bit too much, try using MyCar app instead. (Although this shouldn’t be the case getting to KL airport which is fixed).

We don’t have our own car but always rent one in Malaysia using GoCar . There are multiple GoCars dotted around KL, and we’ve found them more convenient and quicker to pick up/drop off than a regular car rental. They’re also better value.

If you’re a new GoCar user, you can register via their website and then book via the app. They have a newer fleet of Renault Capturs at RM 109 per day, as well as their older Nissan Almeras at RM 90 per day. All you need is an internet connection to get going, which unlocks the door and gives you a code for the key in the glove compartment (apart from the new Capturs which work solely on internet connection…which gets a bit fiddly).

As GoCar (and most other rentals) only offer basic insurance coverage, we always purchase additional protection through RentalCover.com . Their policy insures you against all the things that car rentals do not, including zero excess. For two days cover, we paid £19.60 GBP which insured us up to £60’000 and additional drivers are free.

We used to use Google Maps on our phone to navigate on the road, but the Waze app works much better in Malaysia! It’s great at giving you live updates (Malaysians are fab at reporting hazards) including traffic delays, and the app is easy to follow. Plus, the lady’s voice has an English accent that’s entertaining when she pronounces Malaysian places 😄

Don’t forget your Touch ‘n Go card!

You need this for toll roads in Malaysia, which are everywhere. The card costs RM10.60 and you’ll need to top it up. Most petrol stations sell them or 7-Eleven convenience stores. If topping up on the highway, be sure to have cash handy as they don’t accept cards.

For a full list of available flights to a particular destination, I always start my search using Skyscanner . Although to most destinations within Peninsula Malaysia, AirAsia is your best bet for cost efficiency and availability of flights.

Accommodation

Unless a hotel is not on the platform, I’m fiercely loyal to Booking.com when booking stays.

If you’re a frequent user too then you’ll get the benefit of Genius discounts (10-15% off) and their rates are virtually always the cheapest on offer. Plus, all taxes are included in the quoted price within the initial search, unlike what I’ve experienced with Agoda.

Another bonus is that if you have issues with your hotel (like I did in the Perhentians) then their customer support is awesome. They helped me resolve a problem I was having and the American lady I spoke to was very understanding.

Looking for a stay? Search for hotels on Booking.com

**Tip** Don’t forget to change your VPN to a Malaysian network for cheaper rates.

Travel Tips

For tourists visiting Malaysia, I’d reserve only 2-3 nights in Kuala Lumpur if you’re planning on spending some time in the city. Check out my article on 10 things to do in the city  for when you’re here.

Also, expats will know what a nightmare the traffic can be on bank holiday weekends as everyone practically leaves the city. I’d avoid a long drive during public holidays (👈🏼 get aquatinted with them, there’s many) and go somewhere a flight away instead. Or you could try leaving extra early and cross your fingers!

Top 18 gateways on my list

Like & share.

Glad to know you enjoy your stay. As a Malaysian I would like to recommend you few more nice places (if you haven’t been there yet) here. Check out Malacca (one of the most historic city) or Kundasang in Sabah where you can hike Kinabalu mountain, the via feratta is the highest in the world. There are also few awesome islands in Sabah such as Sipadan, Mabul etc. You can get plenty of info from Mr. G. Love what you are doing here, cheers!

Travel Mermaid

Hey! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your suggestions.

There are so many wonderful places to visit in Malaysia! In this post I wanted to keep suggestions to areas on the Peninsula so that it’s closer to KL for a short getaway.

However Borneo is a place I’d love to visit and write about in the future. ⭐️

That explain the areas selection. I am residing in KL for work but born and raised in east coast part of the peninsula. Still prefer my quiet hometown than crazy traffic in KL. Well, you have contributed to Malaysia’s tourism industry way more than I ever did. Hopefully Sailor will keep on doing his terrible judgements – we are are kind of mirror image where my girl always the one screwing up our vacations lol.

I can imagine! I grew up in the city but prefer smaller towns these days too. I bet it was lovely growing up on the east coast.

And lol, I guess we’re all the yin to our partners yang! Although I must say that the Sailor’s getting better 😉

Nandhini Manohar

Great article 😃

Thank you Nandhini 😃 I hope it helped you find a staycation! x

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Top 15 Cheapest Countries to Visit in Asia That Won’t Break the Bank

Who doesn’t love a good vacation? A break from everyday life can be refreshing. But it is not always easy on the wallet. In that case, Asia can be the perfect place for budget travelers ! It is a fascinating continent with so many countries to explore.

This article lists the Top 15 Cheapest Countries to visit in Asia that fit into any budget! If you wanted to read about world Best Cheapest Countries to Visit read here . Asia, in general, is a culturally rich region of the world. There are so many countries with different cultures to explore. It can be challenging to know where you should start when planning your trip! If you are looking for the cheapest way, the below discussion will help you make the decision! When travelling all over Asia, it is best to have travel insurance for your safe journey. Find out How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance here.

Disclaimer: The countries listed in this article as affordable travel destinations are based on factors like budget accommodations and street food options. However, individual experiences can vary. It’s important to research and plan accordingly before traveling to any destination.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

The Most Affordable & Cheapest Countries to Visit in Asia

1. cambodia.

To start your backpacking tour or simply visit Asia, consider heading to Cambodia first. Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia is an easy and affordable starting point for your journey. A budget of $20 to $35 per day is sufficient for a comfortable stay.

Despite being one of the cheapest countries in Asia, Cambodia is rich in unique experiences. Travelers flock to Cambodia for its stunning temples and friendly locals. Siem Reap is the most visited and budget-friendly destination, home to iconic sites like Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple. Other must-visit places include the Royal Palace and bustling Phnom Penh, the capital city.

Cambodian street food offers a variety of delicious options, including seafood, meat skewers, fried chicken, and vegetables. Popular dishes include Amok (fish in banana leaf), Fish Amok (fish curry), and Samlor (soup). A full meal can cost as little as $5, ensuring you can enjoy the local cuisine without breaking the bank.

Laos is another cheapest country in Asia to visit, with daily expenses typically under $20 to $35. As Laos becomes more popular each year, it attracts travelers with its jungles, waterfalls, and rustic charm—not to mention its friendly locals! Adventurous travelers enjoy white-water rafting, hiking, kayaking, and exploring Laos’ dense forests. Popular attractions include Kuang Si Waterfall, Phousi Hill, and the Golden Temple.

Laos is also known for its cheap but delicious street food. Popular dishes include Khao Jee (fried rice), Khao Tom (soup), Lab Pib (spicy grilled skewers), Sai Our (spicy sausage), and more. All these items are available at very affordable prices.

3. Myanmar (Burma)

Burma is rich in natural beauty and Buddhist art, architecture and culture. It has a lot of historical sites to explore, but people travel to Burma for its friendly locals rather than the attractions. 

Its ancient city Bagan is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site which can be the sole reason to visit Myanmar. Despite its recent history, Burma remains a beautiful country with many attractions, such as gorgeous temples and palaces, awe-inspiring landscapes and, most notably, it’s incredibly kind people. 

Burmese food is generally very spicy, but it’s delicious as well. The most popular dishes are Mohinga (rice noodles), Ohn No (coconut milk soup), Lahpet (pickled tea leaves) and many more. You can have food for less than U$1.00 But the transportation and accommodation can be a bit expensive than in other countries in Asia. It may cost you $20.00 to $35.00 a day to live on in Myanmar.

4. Malaysia

Malaysia has uncountable gems for tourists. Your Asia tour would be incomplete without visiting the historical, cultural, and natural beauty of Malaysia. Its capital state Kuala Lumpur contains so many histories and architectural landmarks that you can explore. And there are more incredible states and cities like Selangor, Pahang, Perak, Putrajaya, Melaka and many others, which have numerous underrated jewels.

Malaysia is a budget-friendly country, and it is cheaper than its neighboring country Singapore or even Thailand. You can get by on under $25. to $40 a day. Food, transport, and accommodation are all very affordable here. You can book a Klook Pass for all the best places in Kuala Lumpur at a reasonable price.

Malaysia is also very safe for solo female travelers . The locals are generally amiable, which makes Malaysia one of the best countries in Southeast Asia to visit. Batu Caves, i-City, Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, Mount Kinabalu, Langkawi, Kinabalu Park and many more are the most exciting attractions in Malaysia. 

SEE ALL TOP ATTRACTIONS AND PLACES TO VISIT IN MALAYSIA HERE

5. Thailand

Whenever we plan to have a tour of Asia, Thailand is the top-listed country that comes to our mind. From its vibrant city of Bangkok to the fascinating beaches in Phuket, all turn the country into a must-visit destination. 

Thailand is well-known worldwide to be a budget tourist spot. The country used to be more expensive than it is today. From $30 to $50, you can spend a day in Thailand.

Thailand has become one of the cheapest places in Southeast Asia to visit – especially if you travel on a shoestring budget! The Grand Palace, Railay Beach, Wat Phra Kaew are the most-visited tourist destinations in Thailand.

Thailand is famous for its delicious, spicy food. If you love seafood, Thai cuisine may be for you since it uses so much fresh fish! You don’t have to spend more than $3.00 on food in this country. 

6. The Philippines

The Philippines is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, delicious food, and friendly locals who are always keen to chat with you or play music for you! The country offers you so many places to visit and things to do that are beyond imagination. Especially its capital Manila is a vibrant city which so many hidden gems.

If you’re going to the Philippines, expect to spend about U$25 to $40 a day. Chocolate Hills, Malapascua Island, Boracay Island, Siquijor Island are the must-visit tourist attractions in the Philippines. 

Most popular dishes include Adobo (meat or vegetables cooked in soy sauce), Pancit Palabok (noodles), Inihaw na Manok (grilled chicken) and many more that can satisfy your appetite. If you eat street foods, your food cost would be less than $5.00, which is quite affordable.

Accommodation can be expensive here. Try to find a dorm room that will cost you between $10.00 to $15.00

7. Indonesia

Indonesia has plenty of diversity with thousands of islands to explore, each with its own unique culture and beauty. The budget of the country is significantly different from Island to Island. So, it is pretty challenging to say a day’s budget, but within $25 to $45, you can make your day.

It’s a cheap country to visit, and it’s also a great way for solo female travelers to meet new friends! Borobudur Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot Temple and many more historical sites are the popular tourist destinations of this country.

Food in Indonesia is generally cheap and delicious, with popular Indonesian dishes including Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Rendang (spicy meat stew), Mi Goreng (fried noodles) and so on. Try to spend $3 to $5 on food so that you can balance your budget.

Vietnam is one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia. The divine sights, waterfall, islands, and hills make this country the top destination to visit in Asia.

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a paradise for city lovers. From iconic buildings to golden temples, modern skyscrapers, to quaint cafes, there is so much to see and do here that you will not get bored! 

Cu Chi Tunnel, Temple of Literature, Notre-Dame Cathedral are the top tourist attractions in Vietnam. Some of their most popular dishes are pho, banh mi, and bun cha that you must try. There are many more delicious foods found in this great country so find your next favourite!

The best part about this country is how cheap it can be. With a daily budget of just $25 to $40 per person, including accommodations, food, transportation, and activities, you can have a very affordable trip to Vietnam.

India is the third-largest country in Asia, just after China. But according to the budget, you can’t imagine how cheap and affordable this country is! 

India has a mixture of attractions, from religious sites to natural scenery – and fast-developing modern cities. Not in every country of Asia, you’ll see the combination of desert, beaches, mountains, jungle, and cities. From Darjeeling to Kashmir , every part of India has a touch of beauty.

India is the top destination for backpackers because it offers many wonders at less than $25 to $35 a day. Accommodations are cheap, especially if you opt for a good hotel not in the touristy areas. It may cost you $2 to $5. India’s famous historical places are the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Amber Palace, Guwahati, etc.

Make yourself comfortable to have street food because it comes less than $3. The transportations are also very reasonable in price. 12GoAsia can help you to check the right price and book transportations such as buses and trains.

Nepal is not as cheap as it once was, but it’s still more affordable than many other countries in the world. You can still get by on less than $30 a day. Nepal has always been famous for its mountains and incredible mountain views everywhere you go – especially around Pokhara! 

Travellers come here to enjoy the fresh air and tranquillity or experience the famous Mustang district near the Himalayas – one of the last untouched areas in Asia (and maybe even in the world!). Boudha Stupa, Chitwan National Park, Bhaktapur Durbar Square are the must-visit destinations in Nepal. 

The country is famous for hiking, but to save your budget, avoid organised guided trips. Other expenses like food or transportation come by $3 and $1.5 respectively.

11. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka might not be the first place you think of visiting, but it’s becoming more popular with budget travellers. While Sri Lanka is still developing as a tourist destination, its neighbouring countries are already very developed and expensive. That makes Sri Lanka an ideal alternative for those on smaller budgets who want to explore South Asia! 

Yala National Park Safari, Sri Pada, Sri Dalada Maligawa and many more are the most interesting attractions in Sri Lanka. You can expect to live on $25 to $40 a day, which is remarkably cheap and affordable.

Accommodations start from as cheap as $7 a night, while food will set you back at less than $5 for a tasty meal. Seafood is plentiful and cheap, while Sri Lanka’s delicious street food is also very affordable.

12. Bangladesh

Bangladesh may not be the top tourist destination in Asia, but backpackers find it an incredible place to visit. Often tourists skip this country, but the country offers a lot of history and culture that you can explore. 

The star attraction of Bangladesh is Sundarban , the most extensive mangrove forest in the world. Not only that, but the country is also the home of the world’s largest sea-beach, Cox’s Bazar. Rangamati is a city with endless beauty, which you can only explore by visiting Bangladesh. And the good news is you can explore all of these places with a daily budget of $15 to $30. 

13. Pakistan

Often travellers avoid Pakistan because of its political problem. But now, the country has overcome this problem and increased its security system. So, for budget travellers, Pakistan is a great destination.

It is said that “if there is heaven on earth, then it is in Kashmir, Pakistan”. The old-style streets and buildings and Islamic culture make the country fascinating.

You can expect to spend less than $20 to 35 a day in Pakistan. Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, Margalla Hills National Park, Thatta Kedona are the most-visited tourist attractions.

14. Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is famous and widely known as ” The Land of Fire” because of its natural gas reserve. And as the country is rich in both petrol and gas, the transportation cost is meagre here. 

Azerbaijan is a country worth exploring if you’re looking for some great architecture. It has many gorgeous buildings, especially in Baku. You are welcome to head down to the city for its photo opportunities and quaintness. 

There are also amazing places to visit like Sheki, Gebele, Nakhchivan, Quba and Khinalig. Travellers can visit Azerbaijan for $30 to $45 a day.

The cuisine that connects Azerbaijan is famous noodles called Khingal. Although it is thought that the origin of Khingal is Armenia, it is actually an Azerbaijani cuisine. The exquisite dish is served with browned onions and ground lamb as toppings.

You can also choose mushrooms as toppings instead of lamb if you are a vegetarian. The dish is served in almost every restaurant and cafe of Azerbaijan. You can also buy the ingredients and try the recipe yourself.

. The food price starts from $3 to $10.

15. Armenia

Placed in the middle of two continents of Asia and Europe, Armenia is a country that has a unique history. This country contains cultures of both continents, Europe and Asia. 

Despite being a small country, Armenian offers you stunning architecture, rich history, thrilling adventure, delicious food, and warm hospitality. And all of these come with budgets that fit you.

Travellers, especially history buffs, are drawn to the ancient temples and Churches in Armenia. You can explore its vibrant capital Yerevan, along with Lake Sevan, Lake Arpi, and several other places without breaking the bank.

Food available at Armenian takeaways are usually delicacies such as Lavash (bread), Khorovats (Armenian BBQ) or Kebab. You are expected to spend $4 to $6 on food in Armenia. 

Moreover, hostels and transport are also affordable and come in $4 and $6, respectively. So, within $25 to $35 a day, you can enjoy this prettiest country with all that it offers.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

Although these countries offer highly affordable prices, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind. First, check the current exchange rates for U.S. dollars and the local currency before booking or arriving at your destination. This will help you budget properly for expenses and understand how much money you’ll have left when you leave.

Another important tip is that the cheapest time to visit these countries is usually during their monsoon seasons, typically between June and September. While the weather can make it more challenging to get around, prices drop significantly during this period. Similarly, the winter season (December to February) often offers lower prices, but be aware that some activities and transportation might be more difficult during this time.

These beautiful countries are perfect destinations for backpackers! Make sure to check them out and share your travel stories with us.

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Khinkali is Georgian, not Azerbaijani. Besides, it is eaten plain without sour cream and vinegar, not to be confused with Russian Pelmeni.

Khinkali is Georgian, not Azerbaijani. Besides, it is traditionally eaten plain without sour cream and vinegar, that is Russian Pelmeni!

Thanks for the information. I was confused between Khingal and Khinkali. I’ll fix it.

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Malaysia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Malaysia is one of the most underrated destinations in Southeast Asia . While the country does see a fair share of backpackers, it sees only a fraction compared to popular neighbors Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

In my opinion, people are missing out.

From the dense urban jungle of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine beaches of the Perhentian Islands , from the jungles in the interior to the delicious food, Malaysia has a ton to offer travelers.

Explore tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands , trek through the vast national parks of Gunung Mulu and Taman Negara, and admire incredible wildlife, including tigers, elephants, sun bears, and more.

Or head to Borneo to look for wild orangutans, hike through the rainforest, and marvel at the knife-sharp peak of Mount Kinabalu.

All too often, travelers breeze through Malaysia on their way to places like Thailand or Singapore. I’d encourage you not to make that same mistake as there is a ton to see and do here — and it’s all super affordable.

This Malaysia travel guide will give you the best places to visit, help you save money, and ensure you make the most of your time in this incredible destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Malaysia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in malaysia.

1. Visit Kuala Lumpur

Chances are you’ll be spending at least a few nights in Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur . Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, see the famous Sri Mahamariamman Temple, explore the Batu Caves, and see the colorful butterfly garden. It’s a great foodie city too.

2. Dive in the Perhentian Islands

These islands are hugely popular with snorkelers and divers because of their reefs and crystalline waters filled with a wide variety of coral, turtles, sharks, and reef-fish. They are getting more popular every year but are a beautiful respite from the tourist-packed islands in Thailand.

3. Visit George Town

George Town is Malaysia’s most enchanting city, with Chinese temples next to mosques and colonial British Raj architecture amongst modern skyscrapers. George Town’s crisscrossing streets teem with bustling shops, historic buildings, and busy cafes.

4. Hike Mount Kinabalu National Park

Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s tallest mountain and a popular hiking trek in which you make your way through dense jungle to reach the summit. Admission is 15 MYR, a climbing permit is 200 MYR, and mandatory insurance is 7 MYR. There are only a set amount of permits allowed per day and you must make go with a guide so plan ahead!

5. Tour the tea plantations

Other things to see and do in malaysia, 1. go wildlife spotting.

Malaysia has a rich diversity of wildlife. Orangutans, Malaysian tigers, Monitor Lizards, and Sumatran Rhinos are all indigenous to the country (Borneo and Sumatra and the only places in the world with wild orangutans). Malaysia’s national parks and wildlife reserves are the best places to go to see wildlife, including Taman Negara and Bako National Park. For Orangutans, go to Borneo. Most day tours cost under 500 MYR, while multi-day tours start around 1,500-2,650 MYR.

2. Dive Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is one of the world’s best dive sites. The famous French explorer Jacques Cousteau declared the island an “untouched piece of art” — and he wasn’t wrong! Barracudas, manta rays, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and greenback and hawksbill turtles fill these crystal waters. Only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts (located on neighboring islands) each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days, diving the surrounding areas, before they can get a Sipadan permit. A 3-dive package at Uncle Chang’s, a budget-friendly dive lodge, costs 550 MYR.

3. Explore Taman Negara National Park

At an estimated 130 million years old, Taman Negara is the oldest rainforest in the world. You can embark on the world’s largest canopy walk, take a 4×4 safari to look for elephants and tigers, go spelunking, or visit some Orang Asli villages (belonging to the country’s Indigenous peoples). Admission is 1 MYR, and 5 MYR if you want to take photos within the park.

4. Relax at Pulau Langkawi

Featured in thousands of different magazines, websites, and articles, Pulau Langkawi is a picturesque retreat on an archipelago of more than 100 islands made up of white sandy beaches and endless sunshine. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach area, especially for its strip of restaurants, bars, and shops. For something slower, visit some of the area’s traditional villages, go snorkeling at Payar Island, or check out the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls on the northwest side of the island. This is one of the best places in the country to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy a slower pace of life.

5. Go whitewater rafting

Outside of diving, Malaysia is also known for its challenging whitewater rafting conditions. You can find all grades of rafting on the rivers here, and prices start around 200 MYR for a half-day excursion. Kuala Kubu Bharu River and Ulu Slim River are two popular options.

6. Understand Malaysia’s colonial roots

Malaysia has a tumultuous colonial past. The country was annexed by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British before finally gaining independence. For a deeper understanding of this history, visit Malacca (Melaka). Located just two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the city center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum offers an in-depth overview of Malaysia’s colonial past. Admission to the museum is 16 MYR.

7. Tour Borneo

Just to the east of Malaysia is Borneo, the third-largest island in the world and home to some of the most diverse rainforests on the planet. Pair that with unlimited wildlife viewing opportunities (including endangered orangutans and proboscis monkeys), and rich Indigenous culture, and you’ve got the makings of a once-in-a-lifetime trip. If you’re an experienced climber, you can also climb Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia at 4,095 meters (13,400 feet) high.

8. Visit the temples

Malaysia has countless beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples scattered all around the country. Some of the most impressive temples include the Batu Caves (Kuala Lumpur), Sri Mahamariamman (Kuala Lumpur), Thean Hou (Kuala Lumpur), Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani (George Town), and Sam Poh Tong (Ipoh). As most temples are still practicing centers of worship, appropriate dress is required to enter. Admission is always free.

9. Dine on street food

Malaysia’s mix of cultures means that there’s an incredible variety of delicious and cheap street food to enjoy here. Markets and roadside stalls are great places to pick up hawker food and dine on a budget. Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Alor, Little India, and Chinatown all have tons of inexpensive food stalls with prices starting at 2-4 MYR. You can also take a street food tour to dive in-depth into food culture and history for around 260 MYR.

10. Celebrate Deepavali

Deepavali is the Hindu festival of lights and is one of the biggest Hindu celebrations in Malaysia. Also known as Diwali, Dipavali, Dewali, Deepawali, or the Festival of Lights, it’s celebrated in October or November for five days. Traditionally, people host open houses, light candles, have fireworks displays, and serve Indian delicacies. In Kuala Lumpur, the biggest celebrations are in Brickfields (Little India).

11. Go jungle trekking

Don’t miss out on exploring Malaysia’s lush landscapes and dense forests while you’re here. The Cameron Highlands are a great place to go trekking, with 14 trekking routes heading out from the main town of Tanah Rata. Most of the hikes lead to waterfalls and scenic views, but if you want a more challenging trek, you’re required to hire a guide and obtain a permit. Eco Cameron Tours offers 4-hour group tours for 80 MYR per person, including a visit to the famous Mossy Forest (a lush forest with ferns, moss, orchids, and a pedestrian boardwalk).

12. Shop at the markets

Indoor and outdoor markets, operating both morning and night, are everywhere in Malaysia. You can get everything at the markets, from prepared food and produce to clothing and souvenirs. They’re also a great way to experience local culture. Don’t be afraid to barter and haggle – it’s what the locals do! If you don’t want to shop, come here to people-watch and take in the local pace of life.

13. Visit Masjid Negara

Malaysia’s national mosque, this huge house of worship in Kuala Lumpur has the capacity to hold 15,000 people. Opened in 1965, its bright blue star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam (over 60% of Malaysia is Muslim). Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the National Mosque outside of prayer time. Be sure to dress modestly, although there are robes available to put over your clothing as well. It’s free to enter.

14. Help the sea turtles

Malaysia’s islands are great places to see turtles, either by diving, snorkeling, or volunteering. In the Perhentian Islands, the Perhentian Turtle Project accepts volunteers for multi-week stays from April to September. A two-week volunteer program costs 3,621 MYR, with food and accommodation. All money raised goes toward helping the turtles, who face extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and pollution.

  For more information on specific cities in Malaysia, check out these guides:

• Cameron Highlands Travel Guide
• Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
• Perhentian Islands Travel Guide

Malaysia Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-6-bed hostel dorm costs 35-70 MYR per night. A bed in a room with 10 or more beds can cost as little as 20 MYR per night. Popular destinations like the Cameron Highlands and Perhentian Islands are on the higher end of the spectrum. A private hostel room costs around 105-130 MYR per night. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common, though most hostels do not have kitchens if you want to cook your own food.

Camping is popular in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands as a way to save on accommodation costs. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot without electricity.

Budget hotels with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free breakfast start around 75-90 MYR per night. For a three-star hotel with more amenities (such as a swimming pool), expect to pay closer to 200-300 MYR per night.

Airbnb is available throughout the country, mainly offering entire homes and apartments catering specifically to travelers. These start at 100-160 MYR per night.

Food – Malaysian cuisine, like the country itself, features a mix of cultures. China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore have all influenced the country’s dishes. Rice or noodles are the basis of most dishes, and seafood and fish feature prominently, especially on the islands and coastal areas. As a Muslim-majority country, chicken and beef are common and are usually halal. Popular vegetables include cabbage, bean sprouts, lotus root, sweet potatoes, taro, and long beans.

The unofficial national dish is nasi lemak , fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, flavored with pandan leaf, and accompanied by different sides, usually served for breakfast. Other popular Malaysian dishes include roti canai (a sweet or savory flatbread), ikan bakar laksa (spicy noodle soup), and many different regional fried noodle and fried rice dishes.

Steamboat (known in other countries as hot pot), a method of dining in which you cook meat and vegetables in a boiling pot, is popular as well.

Street food (like stuffed pancakes, skewers, and bowls of noodle soup) is the cheapest and most delicious way to eat in Malaysia. Each dish costs only 5 MYR-15 MYR. Snacks like skewers cost 2-6 MYR.

You can expect to pay 10-20 MYR for a meal in a Malaysian restaurant, including food like nasi lemak and rojak (chopped fruit and dough). Simple dishes like fried noodles or a bowl of soup are no more than 13-17 MYR each.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 14 MYR for a combo meal, but other western meals can be double or triple that. Pizza, burgers, or pasta can cost up to 50 MYR.

A beer costs 13-17 MYR and a glass of wine is 20-27 MYR. Cocktails are pretty expensive at 20-45 MYR so I’d skip them if you can. A cappuccino is 8-12 MYR.

A week’s worth of groceries costs between 90-150 MYR for basic staples like rice, noodles, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish. Stick to local food items, as western specialties like wine and cheese will destroy your grocery budget.

Backpacking Malaysia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Malaysia, my suggested budget is 115 MYR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, taking public transit to get around, skipping alcohol, and sticking to mostly free activities like walking tours, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.

A mid-range budget of 295 MYR per day covers a private Airbnb or private hostel room, drinking more, taking the occasional taxi to get around, eating street food and the occasional sit-down meal, and doing more paid activities like museum visits, food tours, and diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 520 MYR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel with a pool, eat at restaurants for all your meals, have more drinks, visit the islands, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MYR.

Malaysia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

A little goes a long way in Malaysia, but it’s still easy to wreck your budget here if you splash out on fancy meals and tours. Here are some ways you can save money in Malaysia:

• Barter with your taxi driver – Taxis aren’t usually metered in Malaysia (even though it’s required in bigger cities like Kuala Lumpur), so make sure to agree on the fare before you set off. Ask your hotel/hostel staff what you should pay so you don’t get ripped off.
• Camp – It’s possible to camp in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands to save on accommodation. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot.
• Eat the street food – Street stalls are the place to go for delicious hawker food and meals that cost just a few bucks. The street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest!
• Don’t drink – As Malaysia is a Muslim country, drinking is frowned upon, but it does happen. However, to restrict it, the authorities have made drinking very, very expensive so skip the booze.
• Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is a great way to explore Kuala Lumpur on a budget. You’ll not only get to see the sights, but you’ll connect with a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Travel in the off-season – Traveling during the monsoon season (late November to mid-February) is an easy way to save money on flights and accommodation. With significantly fewer visitors, everything is cheaper. To avoid the worst of the rains, skip the east coast.
• Use Grab – Grab is like Uber and often cheaper than both taxis and tuk-tuks, especially if you’re getting a ride from the airport in Kuala Lumpur. Just download the app and go!
• Escape the city – Much of the popular areas in Kuala Lumpur are designed for tourists and can be expensive. Skip the crowds and head to somewhere like Pataling Jaya, a smaller nearby city that has all the perks of KL with none of the downsides.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t always safe so bring a water bottle with a filter with you to avoid buying single-use plastic. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Looking for budget-friendly places to stay? Here are my suggested places to stay in Malaysia:

• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala lumpur)
• Birdnest Collective Cafe & Guesthouse (Kuala lumpur)
• The Bed Klcc (Kuala lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• Westwood Highland (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Hikers Sleep Port (Cameron Highlands)
• Anis View Perhentian (Perhentian Islands)
• Senja Bay Resort (Perhentian Islands)
• Besut Guesthouse (Perhentian Islands)
• Akinabalu Youth Hostel (Kota Kinabalu)

How to Get Around Malaysia

Public transportation – Most cities in Malaysia have excellent public transport, especially Kuala Lumpur with its buses, light rail, commuter rail, and monorail that all connect every part of the city. A ride costs between 1-15 MYR. If you plan on mostly using public transit, pick up a Touch ‘n Go (TnG) card to use on all modes of public transportation, saving 20% per ride. You can also load unlimited transit passes onto this card.

In Kuala Lumpur, try to use the free GO KL City Bus. It’s a free service that covers most of the tourist hotspots, like Bukit Bintang and Chinatown.

Other cities, like George Town (Penang), are full of city buses that run all over the island. The KOMTAR complex and the Weld Quay jetty are the two primary bus stations. You’ll have to tell your driver where you’re headed, but a typical one-way fare is 2-7 MYR. There are also free buses that go to significant sites in the city, just look for buses labeled “Free CAT Bus.”

Bus – Buses are an easy and efficient way to get around Malaysia. Expect to pay around 5-15 MYR per hour for a bus trip. The main bus companies include:

• Transnasional

Aeroline and Super Nice are high-end services that come with air-conditioning and sometimes even meal service, but they’re still affordable. The 5-hour bus from Penang to Kuala Lumpur costs around 35-45 MYR, while the 3-hour bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands costs about 44 MYR.

Train – Mainland Malaysia has 1,849 kilometers (1,149 miles) of rail, with the main line connecting Singapore to Kuala Lumpur to Thailand.

There are two types of service: express trains, which are air-conditioned and have three different classes; and local trains, which usually only have economy class and are much slower than the express trains. All are operated by Keratapi Tanah Melayu (KTM), the national railway service.

You can use the KTMB.com.my website to look up schedules and to book tickets. Reservations open 30 days in advance.

A train from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (where you’d catch the ferry to Penang) costs 66 MYR, while the 2.5-hour journey from Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur is 30-45 MYR.

In East Malaysia, there is a round-trip sightseeing train that runs from Kota Kinabalu to Papar, with a stop in Kinarut. The North Borneo Railway runs the entire trip, and it takes four hours. The cost is 345 MYR, which includes breakfast and lunch.

Flying – The two leading domestic airlines in Malaysia are Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia. Kuala Lumpur’s airports receive the most flight traffic, followed by Kota Kinabalu and Penang. There are several smaller airports around the country as well.

A flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur can be found for as little as 100 MYR, while a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok ranges between 220-600 MYR. Flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu cost around 225-300 MYR.

Hitchhike – It is common for people to hitchhike in Malaysia, and the locals are eager to pick up travelers. HitchWiki has additional information on hitchhiking in Malaysia.

When to Go to Malaysia

Malaysia’s two peak seasons occur from the start of December to the end of January, and then from June to mid-September. The first tourist peak season occurs during Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr), which celebrates the end of Ramadan. Check ahead to see when this occurs as the dates vary every year. Malaysia’s Muslim population celebrates by taking the week off so your travels could be disrupted if businesses are closed.

Late November to mid-February brings the arrival of the northeast monsoon, affecting much of the east coast with heavy rainfall. September and October are the wettest months on the west coast, with downpours sometimes going on for hours. This is also true in mountainous areas like the Cameron Highlands.

Overall, the best time to visit is from March to early November when it’s drier and less humid. Visiting just after the rainy season isn’t a bad idea either, as it’s still warm, the countryside is lush and full of waterfalls, and tourism is still not overly busy.

Temperatures do not fluctuate much across the country. The daily average is 22-32°C (73-90°F), while in the hills the temperature averages 21°C (67°F). Humidity is high year-round.

How to Stay Safe in Malaysia

Malaysia is safe place to backpack and travel — even for solo travelers and solo female travelers. Violent attacks against foreigners are rare.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Malaysia. When out and about, always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe. This is especially important in crowded tourist areas and on busy public transportation. Don’t leave anything valuable unattended at the beach either.

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though walking alone a night should be avoided just to be safe.

There are some common scams here, especially in Kuala Lumpur, such as taxi drivers trying to rip off passengers. Make sure the meter is on or negotiate your fare before getting in a taxi (or take a Grab to avoid this altogether).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you are eating out, keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. That will prevent would-be thieves from snatching your bag quickly while you’re busy eating.

When out in nature, don’t feed the monkeys! They get aggressive and are not afraid of people. Do not approach monkeys quickly or give them treats, as they grab anything within reach.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Additionally, avoid tap water unless you have a water bottle with a filter. Travelers should also note that Malaysia is a modest country, so revealing outfits attract more attention. To be safe and blend in, dress conservatively.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Malaysia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Malaysia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Traveloka Accomodation

23 Jan 2023 - 7 min read

Where To Go For A Budget Place To Travel For Malaysians?

Budget Place to Travel for Malaysians - Sometimes, when there is free time we want to go abroad and explore other countries. But, one thing, money has become the main problem. If we could list the places to go, there might be a lot. However, it also includes a lot of money to spend.

As long as you’re willing to skip hotel rooms with 3 stars or more, eat local food, and walk a bit more than usual, you should be fine. As the budget travel market grows by leaps and bounds, new and exciting places to visit and ways to travel are becoming available.

Not only that, for your information, the Malaysian passport is included as one of the strongest passports on the top 5 strongest passports in the world. The Malaysian passport lets local people enter nearly 154 countries without a visa or with a visa they can get when they arrive. Here are our top picks for low-cost places that Malaysians can visit without a visa!

Countries Recommendation For Abroad Holiday Budget Friend For Malaysian

1. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Most tourists who come to this country will go to Siem Reap, where the ruins of the huge Hindu temple Angkor Wat are. Cambodia is still one of the cheapest places to visit in South East Asia, even though it is becoming more popular. It’s also easy to find places to stay that don’t cost too much. The most cost-effective way to get around Siem Reap is to take a tuk-tuk (auto rickshaw) or rent a bike.

2. Hanoi, Vietnam

The city of Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. When you come to this country, you will find so many architectural buildings around that are dominated by French colonial architecture. It is a busy city that has won over many tourists. The best-known landmark in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake, which is right in the middle of the city.

Halong Bay is a popular day trip from Hanoi. Hanoi is a good place to visit on a budget because there are many well-furnished budget hotels, cheap public transportation, and a wide range of cheap food and drinks.

3. Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Yogyakarta, which is on the island of Java and can also be called “Jogjakarta,” is known as the home of Borobudur temple and Prambanan temple, the Buddhist temple for Buddhism. The city, which is still run by a Sultan, has a traditional, elegant feel, and the people who live there are very proud of their culture.

Along Jalan Sosrowijayan, there are many cheap places to stay, eat, get a massage, and buy souvenirs. Yogyakarta has a great bus system that goes all over the city and costs as little as IDR3,600 (approximately RM1.20).

4. Busan, South Korea

The second largest city in South Korea is a copy of the country’s capital, Seoul. It also has beautiful beaches and seas that sparkle. The surrounding area is full of mountains, and has hidden Buddhist temples, high-tech infrastructure, and even traditional markets!

For travelers on a tight budget, the city has a lot of safe, clean, and well-kept hostels and guest houses with dormitory-style rooms. As a coastal city, it’s easy to find cheap seafood, and there’s also a wide range of street food. The subway is the best way to get around the city because it goes to almost all of the major tourist spots.

5. Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu is still getting back on its feet after a huge earthquake hit Nepal in 2015. Many people who lost their homes and families in one of the worst disasters in decades depend on tourism to make a living.

By going to Nepal, you help rebuild the country and get the economy going again. It’s one of the best places to visit on a budget, and you won’t spend more than NPR1,200 a day in the capital city (about RM150).

Kathmandu is a great place to visit because there will be lots of interesting activities you could do. Go to Pokhara if you like to hike and trek. Not only is it cheaper than Kathmandu, but it is also the starting point for the Annapurna circuit and has some great treks.

6. Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is Pricey! So why is it on this list of places you can visit on a budget? This is why: Malaysians who want to travel around New Zealand but don’t have a lot of money to spend can get a working holiday visa.

The visa lets you do odd jobs in coffee shops, hostels, and farms, as well as do farm work. That means you can make money while you travel around the North and South islands and see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

7. Cairo, Egypt

Many people have forgotten that Egypt is where human civilization began, and that alone is a good enough reason to put Cairo on your bucket list. There is a lot to see and do in Egypt, from ruins to pyramids, ornate mosques to night markets and camel rides. If you plan ahead, you can book hostels and hotels in Cairo for prices that will surprise you.

Also, bargaining is common, so you can get a lot for your tourist dollar. When it comes to food, nothing tastes as good as Middle Eastern food. There are so many traditional foods of Cairo you can taste, such as kebab , mashi , shawarmas , kushari , and many more!

8. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is slowly becoming more popular with backpackers, even though it is an underrated place to visit in Europe. Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, which is full of fascinating and breathtaking views.

Family-run inns are a good place to stay, and the people who work there are friendly. You could take the cheap public transportation or rent a bike. Stick to local bakeries or check out local markets for fresh ingredients so you can make a simple meal at home that won’t break the bank.

9. Sofia, Bulgaria

Western Europe is full of tourists, but most of Eastern Europe is still waiting to be seen. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, has been called one of the best-kept secrets in Europe and the continent’s cheapest big city. Walking tours are the best way to see the capital, and there are a lot of them, and many of them are free.

The most charming thing about the city is its skyline, which is made up of churches and cathedrals, modern buildings, and colonial buildings. It’s an interesting mix that shows off the rich cultural history of the city. Takeout is cheap, and local bakeries are another great way to eat well on a budget.

10. Mexico City, Mexico

Many travel bloggers say that Mexico City is a chaotic mess, but they promise to go back to this colorful metropolis with its old-world architecture, quaint neighborhoods, open parks, and free museums. Art, culture, and music are big businesses and big draws in Mexico City. This means you’ll have plenty of things to do while you’re there.

As you might expect, the food and drink selections are extensive, and they make up a significant part of the overall experience. Don’t miss the tacos from small booths run by Mexican grandmothers (grandmothers). The only part of Mexico City that will cost you is the flight, but other than that, it’s a cheap place to go on vacation.

11. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is more than simply a picture-perfect island with white sand beaches and crystal-clear seas. Think of beautiful old buildings, sunsets that set the clouds on fire, cozy cafes, lively beach clubs, and stunning landscapes with rough mountains and steep cliffs. Bali has something for everyone, whether you want to plan a romantic trip for two or a fun trip for the whole family.

12. Bangkok, Thailand

If the hustle and bustle of Bangkok isn’t your scene and you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation spot, we have just the place. Bangkok is known as the mysterious town above the clouds. It is only 5 hours north of Bangkok by car, which is great if you love road trips. This charming town has a lot to offer, from beautiful waterfalls and mountains to cute cafes and huge fields of sunflowers. Khao Yai, which is only a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, is also a good choice.

13. Pulau Rawa, Malaysia

Pulau Rawa might be the island for you if you want more privacy and to be the only one there. Pulau Rawa is a beautiful island off the east coast of Johor. It is protected by the Johor Marine Park and is often called the Maldives of Johor.

Pulau Rawa is owned by the family of the Johor Sultan. It has been developed with care, is well protected, and still has its natural beauty. There are only two resorts on the island, so you can expect peace and quiet while you’re here.

Not only Articles about Budget Places to Travel for Malaysians Traveloka provides, but we also have a lot of best-recommended articles for you guys to read! Here is the list of the best Articles recommendation special for you :

So, which one of those budget places to travel for Malaysians that seems the most appealing to you? In the end, whatever destination you pick, don’t forget to always plan it better and easier with Traveloka!

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Malaysia Budget Travel – When and Where to Go and How Much It Will Cost

More tourists are visiting Malaysia each year from the Western backpackers to wealthy visitors from the Middle East. But, despite the level of tourism, Malaysia budget travel isn’t as easy as in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. Many tourists often travel to Malaysia for shopping in Kuala Lumpur at places like KLCC Shopping Mall, Midvalley Mega Mall and Pavillion. And those who do want to travel around the country often find it to be more expensive than they expect.

Is it possible to travel in Malaysia on a low budget?

Let’s start by addressing: is Malaysia expensive to visit? The answer is that it’s possible to visit Malaysia on the cheap if you plan your trip carefully.

Staying in the central areas such as near Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station and KLCC in Kuala Lumpur can be expensive. Budget hotels are around KL Sentral in Brickfields neighbourhood. Hostels and guesthouses are usually in Bukit Bintang, Chow Kit or Chinatown where you can find a bed for as low as $4 per night in a hostel. If you’re looking to find a budget hotel, you can expect to pay more. The prices are similar, if not higher, in other parts of the country in the non-touristy destinations.

When eating out, the places most recommend for tourists are often overpriced. For example, Jalan Alor, a street lined with hawkers serving local food tend to have prices up to 50% higher than elsewhere. Few Malaysians come here to eat. If you want to reduce your daily cost in Malaysia for food, consider visiting one of the food courts, especially those away from central areas. Whenever you eat, always ask for a menu and make a mental note of what you ordered as some restaurants do overcharge tourists, both intentional and not.

If you want to eat at one of the self-service Indian restaurants, always double check the bill. Not everyone calculates the order correctly, and many of the waiters work by memory. Ask for a receipt and double check the amount you need to pay.

Is it expensive in Malaysia to drink alcohol?

Alcohol isn’t as readily available as neighbouring countries in SEA. You can only find reasonably priced beer in some of the Chinese restaurants and at the food courts, which tend to be three small cans for around RM 12 ($2.90) or higher depending on the brand. Larger 660ml bottles are sometimes on sale here too. If you visit the bars, expect to pay much higher for a can or a bottle of beer and top-shelf liquors are very expensive.

If you're staying near KL Sentral, some of the Indian-owned convenience stores sell cans and bottles of beer for as low as RM 5.50 for a 500ml can ($1.30). Alcohol prices in Malaysia are high compared to neighbouring SEA countries and buying from the convenience stores are the cheapest option. Don't expect alcohol in halal restaurants such as the Indian Muslim or Malay ones.

Budget travel in Malaysia: independently or on a packaged tour?

Most Western tourists backpacking Malaysia will do so independently. Other nationalities, such as the Chinese tourists, almost always come as part of a packaged tours.

The pros and cons of independent travel to Malaysia

• You can plan and stick to a budget.
• Getting around the country is easy giving tourists more flexibility.
• Endless amounts of delicious food are available at meager prices if you know where to eat.
• Malaysia has a lot of public holidays such as Chinese New year and Eid taking place over a long weekend. Bus tickets sell out fast and there are lots of traffic jams.
• Admission fees in Malaysia are often dual priced. Foreigners always pay more. The attractions advertise as MyKad holders and non-MyKad holder prices. All Malaysian citizens hold a MyKad.
• Foreigners now have to pay a tourist tax of RM 10 ($2.40) per person, per night at hotels in Malaysia. This can add the costs up significantly if you’re travelling on a budget.

The pros and cons of a packaged tour to Malaysia

• A tour company will meet you at the airport and takes care of logistics. All you need to do is enjoy the tour.
• Guides take you to the destinations and offer a backstory and facts to help you understand what you’re seeing.
• All admission fees and tourist taxes are included so you won’t be faced with any unexpected costs.
• Tours are expensive.
• You have limited time and less flexibility.
• Some tours are overpriced. You should be able to make the same trip for less independently.
• You may end up in a big group where it’s difficult to ask your tour guide questions.

Top budget itineraries

There are lots of affordable places to visit and inexpensive accommodation if you know where to go. Most tourists visit Kuala Lumpur and Penang, which tend to cost more than Tanah Rata, Malacca, Sabah and Sarawak. More rural and off-the-beaten-path destinations have fewer hotels making the price higher.

You can take a coach from Kuala Lumpur to Tanah Rata in the Cameron Highlands for between RM 35 to RM 40 ($8.40 to $9.60) one-way. The journey takes between three and a half to four hours depending on the season and traffic. It's difficult to get around in Cameron Highlands unless you rent a car or join a tour. Taxis are available but relying on them all the time becomes expensive. Budget accommodation is available in Tanah Rata as the area gets a large number of domestic tourists.

Malacca and Johor

The historical city of Malacca and Johor are to the south of Kuala Lumpur by bus. Expect to pay between RM 10 to RM 15 ($2.50 to $3.60) to get to Malacca (two hours) and up to RM 40 ($9.60) for Johor (five hours). Always check if there’s an upcoming public holiday as ticket prices increase and sell out quickly. Malacca was a former Portuguese colonial port and has quite a few historic buildings remaining. Johor is a great place to base yourself for a cheap trip to Singapore.

Domestic flights travel to both Sabah and Sarawak from various places in West Malaysia including Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor. Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital, stretches along the coast. A short ferry ride can take tourists to the nearby islands with Manukan Island being the most popular. Mount Kinabalu, in Kundasang Ranau, is two and a half hours from the city. The food in Sabah is inexpensive and very cheap by western standards. Expect a dish to cost from 6 RM ($1.40) and upwards. The prices in Sabah are similar to those in Kuala Lumpur.

The best free attractions in Sabah include the Signal Hill Observation Deck, which gives a great view of Kota Kinabalu. Tourists also like exploring Gaya Street where an open market held on Sundays. The Waterfront is a pleasant place to take a stroll and get some photographs of the sea too.

Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, and Miri, the second city, are the two most popular destinations. Sarawak is famous for national parks and caves. Food is cheaper than both Kuala Lumpur and Sabah with a plate of local noodles costing just RM 4 to RM 5 ($1). Free activities include exploring Kuching’s Waterfront and walking along Indian Street. You can also search for and photograph the cat statues in the city centre too. Sarawak is one of the most affordable cities and is often included in the top budget itineraries in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur and Penang

If you decide to spend most of your time in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, check out the following free attractions. KLCC Park, Perdana Botanical Gardens, Merdeka Square and Central Market are the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. You can also check out Penang’s temples, beaches and street art for free.

Best cheap hostels/hotels in Malaysia

The best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur if you're travelling on a low budget include Brickfields (near KL Sentral Main Station), Bukit Bintang and Petaling Street. Knowing the best low-key places to stay can save the savvy traveller a considerable amount that could be better spend on other activities.

The best accommodation (prices based on one traveller and stated in USD):

• PODs The Backpackers Home & Café in Brickfields Kuala Lumpur. From $7 to $8 for a bed in a dorm or $16 for a single room with a shared bathroom.
• M & M Hotel. Basic rooms start at $18 per night. Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur.
• RL Budget Accomodation. Some of the cheapest accommodation with rates as low as $4 for a dorm bed or $12 private room with fan in Pantai Cenang, Langkawi.
• Cas Idaman Motel. Expect at least $29 per night for a private room in Pantai Cenang, Langkawi.
• The Frame Guesthouse. Beds cost between $9 and $11 for a bed in a dormitory in Georgetown, Penang.
• Lagenda House, $21 per night for a double bed with a private bathroom in Georgetown, Penang.
• SKYPOD Boutique Hostel. Starts prices from $7 for a bed in a dorm in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
• Monaco Boutique Hotel. From $21 per night for a double room in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
• Check In Lodge. A bed in a dorm starts at $6 per night or $20 for a private room in Kuching, Sarawak.
• Padungan Hotel. A double room with en-suite costs between $18 and $21 in Kuching, Sarawak.

Top tips for budget travel in Malaysia

If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, check out the following less-obvious travel tips to help you save more money.

Join a free walking tour in Kuala Lumpur. The local city government offers free weekly tours to take tourists around Kuala Lumpur with a knowledgeable, English speaking guide. Tours often last two and a half hours and are tip-based, which means you give as much or as little as you can afford. If you’re interested in joining, visit the Free Dataran Merdeka Heritage Guided Tour’s website for times and the meeting point.

Be savvy with public transport Use the public transportation such as LRT and Monorail in Kuala Lumpur. But, in other major cities around Malaysia where mass transport doesn’t exist, rely on GrabCar and Uber rather than taxis. When you arrive at KLIA, use the Airport coach rather than the Express railway.

Local street food You’ll find street food around Malaysia with hawkers selling snacks on the streets to noodles inside restaurants. The food is cheap and costs a few ringgits for a decent meal. Eating here will save a considerable amount compared to the restaurants aimed at tourists.

Drinking Alcohol Expect the price of alcohol to be quite high by local standards, especially in the bars and pubs. A top money saving tip is to find a local non-Halal convenience store and buy reasonably priced beer from there.

Be smart about accommodation Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Malaysia, and the cost of buying bottled water from the shop adds up quickly. Find a guesthouse that offers filtered water or allows you to boil water in your room. Buying bottles each day will be expensive over a couple of weeks.

Shopping in Malaysia Many tourists come to Malaysia for shopping. You’ll find bargains in Chinatown and Little India for clothes, souvenirs and food.

Visit the free places Almost every city in the country has free places to visit such as Perdana Botanical Garden and Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur. Buddhist temples in Penang are also free to enter.

Use the bus to travel long distances Buses are often cheaper than flying. Several buses depart daily between Kuala Lumpur and Malacca, Johor, Cameron Highlands and Penang. If you want to visit East Malaysia, monitor the airlines, such as Malindo or Malaysian Airlines, for one of their regular ticket promotions.

Take advantage of Couchsurfing Couchsurfing is popular in Malaysia, and you can stay for free with a local host. This not only gives you the chance to save on accommodation but you also meet and make friends with a local Malaysian.

Get a SIM card with a data plan (internet package). Data plans are inexpensive in Malaysia, and you can easily buy a SIM card from the airport or phone shops. Data plan costs as low as $3 for 7 days or $10 for 30 days. Having your own internet saves costs on sitting in cafes and gives you the flexibility to be connected whenever you want.

Conclusion:

Malaysia is an affordable travel destination if you plan your trip carefully. Don’t expect the same prices as Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, but the food is cheap and accommodation is inexpensive if you know the right places to go.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is a Short Getaway in Malaysia?

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

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

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

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

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

Short Getaway in Malaysia Summary

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

Short Getaways Near Kuala Lumpur

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

1. Kuala Lumpur City Stay

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

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

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

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

KLCC Hotels and Activities

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

KLCC Activities to Try:

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

Southern Kuala Lumpur Hotels and Activities

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

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

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

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

Restaurants to Try during your short getaway in KL:

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

2. Fraser’s Hill

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

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

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

Fraser’s Hill Hotels & Activities

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

Fraser’s Hill Activities to Try:

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

Try these restaurants in Fraser’s Hill:

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

3. Genting Highlands

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

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

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

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

Genting Highlands Hotels & Activities:

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

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

Genting Highlands Activities:

• Resorts World Skytropolis Theme Park
• Ride the Skyway Gondola

Restaurants to try in Genting Highlands:

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

4. Kuala Selangor

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

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

Kuala Selangor Hotels and Activities:

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

Kuala Selangor Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Selangor:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melaka Hotels and Activities:

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

Melaka Activites to Try:

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

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

Restaurants to Try in Melaka:

• Baboon House
• Pak Putra Restaurant
• Munchkins Cafe Melaka

6. Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

Port Dickson Hotels and Activities:

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

Port Dickson Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Port Dickson:

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

7. Bukit Tinggi + Bentong/Raub

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

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

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

Bukit Tinggi Hotels & Activities

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

Bukit Tinggi Activities:

• French Town Tour
• Colmar Tropicale Castle

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

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

8. Kuala Kubu Bharu

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

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

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

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

Kuala Kubu Baru Hotels & Activities

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

Kubu Bharu Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Kubu Bharu:

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

9. Sekinchan

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

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

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

Sekinchan Hotels & Activities

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

Sekinchan Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Sekinchan:

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

10. Hulu Langat

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

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

Hulu Langat Hotels & Activities

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

Hulu Langat Activities:

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

Restaurants to Try in Hulu Langat:

• Zest Restaurant
• Elda’s Farmhouse
• Latest Recipe

11. Janda Baik

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

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

Janda Baik Hotels & Activities:

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

Janda Baik Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Janda Baik:

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

12. Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib

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

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

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

Pantai Morib Hotels & Activities

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

Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib Activities:

• Go Tandem Paragliding
• Relax on Morib Beach

Restaurants to Try in Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib:

• She Ba Judgra
• Restoran Wan Ikan Bakar

13. Batang Kali

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

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

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

Batang Kali Hotels & Activities

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

Restaurants to try in Batang Kali Selangor:

• CCK Restaurant
• WK Restaurant
• Ken Kee Restaurant

Short Getaways Around Peninsular Malaysia

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

14. Belum Rainforest

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

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

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

Belum Rainforest Hotels and Activities

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

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

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

15. Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands Hotels and Activities:

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

Cameron Highlands Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Cameron Highlands:

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

16. Johor Bahru

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

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

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

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

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

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

Johor Bahru Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try near Legoland:

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

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

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

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

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

Ipoh Hotels and Activities

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

Ipoh Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Ipoh:

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

18. Taiping

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

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

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

Taiping Hotels and Activities

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

Taiping Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Taiping:

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

19. Cherating Beach

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

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

Cherating Hotels and Activities

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

Cherating Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Cherating:

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

20. Desaru Beach

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

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

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

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

Desaru Hotels and Activities

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

Activities in Desaru to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Desaru:

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

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

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

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

Gopeng Hotels and Activities

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

Gopeng Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Gopeng:

• Kristal Jade Seafood Restaurant
• Idamsa Cafe
• Miera Kitchen

22. Taman Negara

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

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

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

Taman Negara Hotels and Activities

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

Taman Negara Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Taman Negara:

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

23. Kuala Sepetang

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

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

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

Kuala Sepetang Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Sepetang:

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

24. Jungle Railway of the East Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Getaways in Malaysian Borneo

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

25. Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

Kota Kinabalu Hotels and Activities

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

Kota Kinabalu Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kota Kinabalu:

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

26. Kuching

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

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

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

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

Kuching Hotels and Activities

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

Kuching Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Kuching:

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

27. Sandakan

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

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

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

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

Sandakan Hotels and Activities

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

Sandakan Activities to Try:

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

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

Restaurants to Try in Sandakan:

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

28. Gunung Mulu National Park

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

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

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

Gunung Mulu Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try in Gunung Mulu National Park:

• Good Luck Cave’fe Mulu

Short Island Getaways in Malaysia

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

29. Langkawi Island

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

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

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

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

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

Telaga Tujuh Waterfall is also a lot of fun!

Langkawi Hotels and Activities

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

Langkawi Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in Langkawi:

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

30. Penang Island

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

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

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

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

Penang Hotels and Activities

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

Penang Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try on Penang Island:

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

31. Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

Tioman Hotels and Activities

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

Tioman Activities to Try:

• Get SCUBA certified
• Visit the Turtle Hatchery

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

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

32. Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

Perhentian Hotels and Activities

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

Perhentian Activities to Try:

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

Restaurants to Try in the Perhentian Islands:

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

33. Pangkor Laut Island

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

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

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

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

Restaurants to Try on Pangkor Laut Island:

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

34. Lang Tengah Island

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

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

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

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

Lang Tengah Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try on Lang Tengah:

• Koko Restaurant

35. Redang Island

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

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

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

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

Redang Island Hotels and Activities

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

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

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

Restaurants to Try on Redang Island:

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

36. Rawa Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. Kapas Island

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

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

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

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

Kapas Island Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try in Marang:

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

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

38. Carey Island

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

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

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

Carey Island Hotels and Activities

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

Restaurants to Try on Carey Island:

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

39. Sibu Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on a Short Getaway in Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Where to go in Malaysia for a short trip: KL Getaways

Looking for budget weekend getaways in Malaysia that can be taken from KL? This guide will show you exactly where to go in Malaysia for a short trip!

Malaysia is an incredibly diverse country with so much to offer to any type of traveler. While Peninsular Malaysia is known for its bustling cities, historical towns and pristine beaches, Malaysia Borneo is known for its diverse wildlife, lush rainforest and spectacular mountain peaks. 

Although I’ve traveled to Malaysia on multiple occasions, I still have a lot more to explore. That’s why I’ve asked some of the best travel bloggers to share their top recommendations for the best places to visit in Malaysia for a short trip. 

So here’s a list of 20 weekend getaways in Malaysia (that can easily be taken from Kuala Lumpur) to help you plan a short but relaxing vacation in Malaysia! 

Check out these other Malaysia travel guides:

• How to spend 4-12 days in Singapore and Malaysia?
• Ultimate 2-week Malaysia itinerary on a budget

*** 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

Getting around Malaysia 

Being well connected with other Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Thailand, traveling to and within Malaysia is very cheap and easy. 

I recommend using either Easybook or  12go.asia  to book your transportation so you can easily compare the price of train and bus tickets and hence get the best deal. 

Alternatively, if you don’t want to spend hours on the bus or train during your short Malaysia getaway, AirAsia offers very cheap flights and usually has some pretty awesome deals if you book well in advance. 

Another option is to book a private transfer from KL to any destination in Malaysia.

Weekend Getaways in Peninsular Malaysia

Penang .

Penang Island is located in the northwest of Peninsular Malaysia. With a diverse cultural heritage that can be seen through its temples and mosques, historical buildings, interactive street art and world-class street food, Penang, also known as the food capital of Malaysia, is the perfect place to spend the weekend in Malaysia for foodies and history buff. 

The cheapest way to get to Penang  is by bus. There are also direct flights available from Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Singapore. The best time to visit Penang is between December and April. 

One of the top things to do in Penang is to go on a self-guided street art tour. The city of Georgetown is covered with an abundance of quirky and interactive murals that make for really fun photo backdrops!  

You can also take a tour of the Blue Mansion , visit Penang Hill ,  Penang Habitat , Kek Lok Si Temple, 3D Trick Art Museum or spend the evening on Chulia Street to feast on some tasty Malaysian food. 

Other   things to do include taking a dip in Batu Ferringhi beach, hiking Penang National Park or visiting the Botanical Gardens. 

Where to stay in Penang : The  Blue Mansion  is perfect for those who want to stay in a traditional Peranakan home. The hotel is located in the heart of Georgetown and includes free breakfast. 

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Related post: How to spend 3 days in Georgetown Penang?

Melaka 

If you’re looking for a short Malaysia getaway from Kuala Lumpur that’s rich in history and culture, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Melaka (also spelled Malacca) is right up your alley! 

Melaka, sometimes referred to as the Amsterdam of Asia, is famous for its colonial architecture with Dutch, Portuguese and British influences, colorful river canals, a majestic floating mosque and night markets.

Although most people visit  Melaka as a day trip , there’s quite a lot to do to fill in a weekend, plus you can easily take the bus from KL to Malacca . Explore the Dutch Square to see all the major attractions such as the Christ Church, Saint Paul’s Hill, Stadthuys and A’Famosa Fort.  

You can also take a river cruise , hunt for street art in Melaka , visit the Maritime Naval Museum, take in the view from The Shore Sky Tower , watch the sunset at the Melaka Straits Mosque, have an adventure-filled day at the Skytrex Adventure and more! 

To sample some of the tastiest local dishes, make sure to visit the famous  Jonker Street night market which takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A GUIDED MELAKA DAY TOUR FROM KL

Where to stay in Melaka : 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. 

Related post: 15 awesome things you must do in Melaka

Situated in the state of Perak, Ipoh is one of the most underrated getaways in Malaysia! While exploring Ipoh, you’ll come across colorful and interactive murals, cute alleyways and beautiful cave temples etched into the limestone cliffs. 

You can easily  get to Ipoh from KL  or other major cities in Malaysia by either bus or train. For the best weather condition, plan your visit between December and April but avoid Chinese New Year if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic on your way to Ipoh! 

Start your trip by heading to Mural’s Art Lane which is covered with dozens of colorful street art before making your way to the Old Town, the center of all Ipoh attractions . 

In the Old Town, you’ll find Concubine Lane, a little alley flanked by cute cafes and shops selling souvenirs, clothes and delicious food.  Market Lane is also not to be missed with its colorful hanging umbrellas and interactive murals. 

If you have time, make sure to visit at least one cave temple. There are over 30 of them dotting every corner of Ipoh, some providing the most scenic views. Three of my favorite temples are Perak Tong, Kek Lok Tong and Sam Poh Tong. 

Finally, you can’t say you’ve been to Ipoh without sampling some delicious egg tarts accompanied by a cup of Ipoh white coffee! Follow the locals to either Nam Heong White Coffee or Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong and you’ll be in for a treat! 

Where to stay in Ipoh : If you want to stay in the Old Town, I recommend Dé Cafe & Rest House . Alternatively,  Grayhaus Soho Ipoh  in the New Town offers budget single or double rooms, inclusive of breakfast. 

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Related post: 14+ best things to do in Ipoh in 3 days

Kuala Lumpur 

Featuring the world’s tallest twin towers, bustling neighborhoods, impressive temples and mosques and an omnipresent food scene, Kuala Lumpur or KL is the perfect place to visit for a short vacation in Malaysia. 

The city is found about 50 minutes from the airport and can be reached by bus, train or Grab taxi.  

The starting point for exploring Kuala Lumpur is Bukit Bintang  where you can do some cheap shopping and eat to your heart’s content at the famous Jalan Alor Night Market. 

From Bukit Bintang, take the air-conditioned walkway that leads to the Petronas Twin Towers. I recommend visiting at night to see the towers light up just in time for the lake symphony show. 

You can also visit the KL Tower and KL Forest Eco Park (one of KL’s top Instagram spots ) where you can walk along a canopy bridge surrounded by the only remaining rainforest in KL city center. Aquaria KLCC , Chinatown KL , Little India and the  Batu Caves  are also not to be missed on any Kuala Lumpur itinerary as well as a visit to the impressive Thean Hou Temple. 

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur : There are lots of options for infinity pool hotels in KL but if you’re on a tight budget, I recommend Gold 3 Boutique Hotel . It features stylish and modern rooms and is a cheap place to stay in Bukit Bintang. 

Related post: Top things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 48 hours

Sekinchan 

Anyone visiting Malaysia is likely to stop by Kuala Lumpur. While the city is amazing, it can feel too busy for some. Luckily for visitors looking for a relaxing weekend getaway in Malaysia, there’s the small fishing village of  Sekinchan , located only two hours away. 

Sekinchan is considered the hidden gem of Malaysia. It wasn’t until recently that it started to receive an influx of tourists due to the popular TVB drama “Outbound Love”.  

What’s so special about this peaceful fishing village is the rice fields that lie on its perimeter. Acres of stunning and lush rice fields cover the eastern outskirts of town, stretching beyond the eye’s reach. When admiring these rice paddies, an unknowing traveler might even think that he or she is in Bali ! 

Just remember to visit when the rice paddies are in full bloom, or else you might not see anything at all. March to May and September to November are considered the best time to visit. 

Many visitors do a  Sekinchan day trip , enjoying the rice paddies during the day, relaxing on the Redang beach at sunset, and enjoying some fresh seafood before heading home. However, I would advise staying for a whole weekend to relax and enjoy some of the attractions of the neighboring town such as the  fireflies tour  and  Sky Mirror  in Kuala Selangor.

Where to stay in Sekinchan : If you’re spending the weekend in Sekinchan, make sure to book a stay at  Villa Chee for the best rice field view! 

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Recommended by Sean from Living Out Lau 

Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is the perfect place to escape for a couple of days and enjoy some time in the mountains. It’s well known for its endless beautiful tea fields that cover the rolling hills and valleys.  

The local busses are a cheap and easy way to get to Cameron Highlands  and run regularly from major hubs such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang. 

You can visit all year round but January and February are the months with the least rainfall, so you may want to visit then. The best thing to do in  Cameron Highlands  is to explore the local tea fields.  

There are several hikes in the area or you can visit some of the tea plantations. BOH Plantation  is one of the most popular due to the beautiful scenery surrounding the tasting room. 

The region is also known for growing lavender, strawberries and other fresh produce with lots of markets and shops selling local goods, making it the perfect place to go for a short trip in Malaysia!

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands : A great option for those staying on a budget is The Cave Guesthouse which is a 10-minute walk from the town center. 

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Recommended by Luke from The Coastal Campaign 

Port Dickson

Port Dickson is probably one of the best weekend getaway destinations due to its close proximity to cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. It’s also a region that’s well-known for its picturesque beaches, quaint colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural attractions. 

Within easy reach of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, most tourists and locals get to Port Dickson by private transport . However, public transportation from Singapore is more straightforward with the availability of direct coaches such as the Golden Coach Express or KKKL Express. It’s also easy to arrange a transfer from Kuala Lumpur airport . 

January and February are the best months to  visit Port Dickson if you want to avoid the wet season. As this is the peak season, it’s best to visit in early March and perhaps to take note of the auspicious dates of the Lunar New Year as this is when locals from Singapore, Malaysia and other neighboring Asian countries would be on holiday. 

Aside from lying on one of the beaches across Port Dickson’s 18-km coastline, one of the best things to do is to pay a visit to the oldest lighthouse in Tanjung Tuan and use this location as a starting point for a hike through a verdant jungle trail. Once you’ve reached the peak, do not turn back. Instead, follow the descending trail that leads you to a secret bay with granite formations amid gleaming blue waters. 

Other things to do in Port Dickson include taking a boat tour and visiting the Alive 3D Art Gallery .

Where to stay in Port Dickson : Port Dickson has a variety of accommodations that suit all types of travelers. For those looking for a luxurious break, the Grand Lexis Dickson with its sea chalets and swimming pools is highly recommended. A cheaper option would be the Glory Beach Resort with its serviced apartments, pool, and private beach. 

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Recommended by Karolina  Klesta  from Lazy Travel Blog.  

Johor Bahru  

Johor Bahru is located in the southernmost point of Malaysia – just on the border with Singapore and is great for a short getaway in Malaysia with kids.

The city has excellent shopping and restaurants and everything is much less expensive compared with Singapore . 

If you’re traveling as a family, Johor Bahru is the perfect place! Your kids will be spoiled for choice of fun – LEGOLAND Malaysia  or Hello Kitty Town. We spent the whole day in LEGOLAND enjoying the rides and other activities, and guess what was the best – no queues! You can fully enjoy the rides instead of waiting for them.

If this isn’t enough, you can always go from  Johor Bahru to Singapore , the trip takes max 45 minutes (by local bus), and Singapore has everything you can imagine! 

Where to stay in Johor Bahru : If you travel as a family to Johor Bahru, you should stay in the LEGOLAND Malaysia Hotel . Alternatively, if you’re traveling as a couple, the brand-new Z Hotel is a great choice! It’s conveniently located in the heart of Johor Bahru close to shopping malls and restaurants with mouthwatering food – especially at “Flowers in the Window” restaurant. 

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Recommended by Ania from The Travelling Twins 

Island Getaways in Malaysia

Langkawi .

Located off the west coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a stunning archipelago of 104 islands with waterfalls, gorgeous white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and lush rainforest. 

Langkawi is a great destination all year round but the best time to visit is between November and March during the dry season when the days are beautifully sunny.  

You can reach Langkawi either by air or by ferry – there are  direct flights from Kuala Lumpur , Singapore and Penang, or you can reach Langkawi by ferry from Penang Island or from Kuala Perlis on the mainland.  

There are heaps of fun  things to do on Langkawi’s main island  and it’s perfect for a short Malaysia getaway. Take a ride on one of the world’s steepest cable cars to get amazing panoramic views of the islands from the  magnificent Skybridge . After you’re done, make your way to Seven Wells Waterfall which is found within walking distance of the Skybridge or head over to Skytrek Adventure Langkawi for an adventure-filled day. 

Related post: Guide to visiting the Seven Wells Waterfalls

The  Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a beautiful UNESCO heritage site and home to mangroves, macaque monkeys and eagles. 

If you like water sports, head to one of Langkawi’s many beaches to go parasailing or jet boating or jump on an  island hopping tour  to enjoy some diving or snorkeling. The island is also duty-free and there are lots of shopping centers selling bargain clothing and alcohol. 

Where to stay in Langkawi : There are accommodation options to suit all budgets here. Check out the mid-range priced Berjaya Resort – spacious chalets situated on the beach on the edge of the rainforest with restaurants, bars and an outdoor pool. For a more budget option, there’s  Chenang Inn  found only a few minutes from Cenang beach. 

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Recommended by Caroline from CK Travels

Related post: What to do in Langkawi for 3 days?

Tioman Island 

Just off the southeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia lies the beautiful island Tioman, ideal for a short vacation in Malaysia! This wonderful speck in the ocean offers amazing beaches, tropical forests and laidback villages.  

Note that Tioman can only be visited between March and October, the island is closed off to tourists during monsoon season (November to February).  

Getting to Tioman invariably involves a boat trip as there’s no airport (anymore) on the island. There are two jumping-off points for Tioman Island: Mersing and Tanjung Gemok. Ferry departures depend on the tide and weather conditions.  

Tioman is a great place for scuba diving as well as snorkeling as the ocean around it is marked as a marine reserve. It’s an excellent place to get your PADI as dive prices are very reasonable and you’ll see plenty of colorful fish and corals while learning how to dive.  

Other things to do in Tioman include relaxing on one of the pretty beaches, hiking through the jungle and watching the monitor lizards and monkeys roam around the tiny towns.  

Where to stay in Tioman : A good place to stay in Salang (my favorite village on Tioman) is Ella’s Place, a simple but lovely budget accommodation on the north side of town. There are small bungalows with fan or aircon, no hot water but with the tropical Tioman temperatures this isn’t really necessary.

Recommended by Lotte Eschbach from Phenomenal Globe.  

Redang Island 

Redang Island is a gorgeous destination located off the east coast of Malaysia near Kuala Terengganu.  It’s located in a protected marine park and is perfect for people wanting to explore nature with its jungle-filled interior, fantastic coastline and coral surrounded exterior. 

There’s no bridge to Redang and only charter flights operate here which means you need to catch a ferry across from Kuala Terengganu or  Merang . Ferries are quick and easy and this is part of the fun of visiting Redang. Once on the island, you’ll generally get around by foot, kayak or boat since there aren’t many roads. 

Redang has two seasons – dry and monsoon. You should avoid the monsoon season as ferry rides to the island stop and the island basically shuts down. For this reason, visit Redang from late March to October. 

Most of Redang’s things to do center around nature. You can dive, snorkel, kayak, swim, explore the island by boat or trek across, play volleyball and other land and water sports.  

During the turtle hatching season from April to October, you can even release baby turtles. Of course, you can also relax on one of the gorgeous beaches. 

Where to stay in Redang : Note that Redang isn’t a budget destination and it’ll cost you more than the mainland. A good option for bargain seekers is  Redang De’ Rimba  as long as you don’t mind not having direct beach access. You can find more information about visiting Redang  here .

Recommended by Sharon from Dive Into Malaysia

Pangkor Island 

If you’re wondering where to go in Malaysia for a short trip, make sure to visit Pangkor Island, Malaysia’s little local paradise. It’s the ideal island getaway since it’s situated only a few hours from Kuala Lumpur. Yet it’s still very overlooked by tourists. Pangkor Island is for those who seek quiet beach life and fun scooter adventures. 

It’s easy to get to Pangkor – from Kuala Lumpur, it’s a 4-hour bus ride to Lumut  where the ferry leaves for the island every half hour. You can visit Pangkor Island all year round, but you might want to steer clear of the rainy season from October to December. The island is also very popular among local tourists, so avoid the busy holiday season. 

The west side of the island has beautiful beaches and often accommodates the few tourists who visit, whereas the right side has more of a local feel. 

There are many things to do on Pangkor Island apart from relaxing on the beach. You can rent a kayak, go jungle trekking, visit the local fishermen’s village or simply go explore on a scooter. On the island, you can find a Hindu temple, a Chinese temple, and a floating mosque which are worth a visit.  

Where to stay on Pangkor Island : Pangkor Waterfall Beach Resort is a budget-friendly option for those who want to stay close to Coral Beach, good restaurants and wildlife. 

Recommended by Cecilie from Worldwide Walkers  

Perhentian Islands 

The Perhentian Islands are located on the quiet east coast of Malaysia. Perfect for a short vacation in Malaysia, the islands are famous as a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving .

The Perhentian Islands are split into two inhabited islands known as  Perhentian Besar  (the big island) and Perhentian Kecil (the small island). Both offer different vantage points to explore the abundant marine and wildlife in the region.  

For travel to and from the islands, it’s easy to find boats leaving from Besut  and make sure to book in advance as accommodation is limited and somewhat exclusive on the island. It’s also best to visit during the dry season (April to September). 

One of the best spots has to be Teluk Pauh Beach where the coral reefs run right up to the sands, with ridiculously diverse marine life! Just a short swim out, you’ll find “turtle point” which is a famous snorkeling spot in Malaysia to swim with sea turtles.  

The beaches as well are pristine with golden sand, the interiors of the island are dense with forest and the wildlife, such as silvered leaf-langurs, mingle on the shores.  

Where to stay on Perhentian Islands : A great place to stay is the  Perhentian Islands Resort on Teluk Pauh Beach which has its own jetty for arrivals from the mainland.  

Recommended by Allan from Live Less Ordinary 

Kapas Island 

Kapas Island is one of the best places you could visit for a weekend in Malaysia. It’s a stunning island located off the east coast and due to its hidden nature, it remains empty most of the year. Because of this, the coral reefs remain intact unlike many contrasting locations in Malaysia such as the Perhentian Islands. 

Kapas Island is best visited from March to October as storms can hit in the other months. It’s a short flight or 7-hour bus ride into  Kuala Terengganu from Kuala Lumpur . Afterward, take a taxi to Marang Jetty and a 15-minute boat journey to the island itself. Alternatively, buses are available in Kuala Terengganu from all major locations in Malaysia. 

One of the best things to do is to take a snorkel and swim on the colorful reefs. Alternatively, boat tours are available to further locations. If you’d prefer to dive, it’s very cheap costing less than US$ 300 for your PADI open water. If you prefer dry land, there’s a hike through the jungle to the beaches on the opposite side of the island. 

Where to stay on Kapas Island : There are many beautiful places to stay, but I have to recommend Qimi’s Chalet. It has a private beach where it hosts candlelit barbeque dinners in the evening. The rooms are like treehouses and have a rustic feel. But if you prefer something more modern, do consider Turtle Valley Resort. 

By Hannah from Hannah’s Happy Adventures  

Rawa Island 

Rawa Island, translated in the local dialect as ‘white doves’ is the very definition of peace. This picture-perfect tropical island resort within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park off the east coast of Malaysia is perfect for a short relaxing getaway.  

The white sand, verdant groves and warm, clear waters feel like a world away from the stress of modern life. And yet this idyllic haven is just a 30-minute speedboat ride from Mersing in the province of Johor. Rawa Island is hugely appealing between February and October for a family break or romantic paradise getaway.  

Rawa’s main attraction is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings, to kick back and unwind on its soft-sand beaches under the never-ending sun. For those rare moments of activity, take a short stroll along its coastal walkways or snorkel its coral reef.  

If this isn’t enough, there’s always the resort spa for indulgent pampering as you gaze across the calming ocean beyond.  

At the end of each day, Rawa will reward you not only with a fabulous feast from the restaurants but also a splendid sunset. Ideal to enjoy with a glass or two of something cold and refreshing, Rawa will no doubt leave many wonderful memories.

Recommended by Paul from The Two That Do 

Short Getaways in Malaysia Borneo

Kuching .

An easy getaway from Kuala Lumpur is Kuching, one of the most charming and action-packed towns in Sarawak and a perfect place to start a  Borneo itinerary . 

The only feasible way is  flying from Kuala Lumpur  or Penang with the cheap AirAsia flights. You can come to Kuching pretty much any time of the year, but avoid the period between November and February when the rainy seasons make the task of exploring the surrounding jungles a wet mess. Also, in July it’s the time for the iconic Rainforest World Music Festival — this is a fantastic music event, but also a time when Kuching is packed, and accommodation prices skyrocket. 

Kuching itself has plenty of charming lanes packed with bars and a beautiful waterfront set next to the Sarawak River. Take the bridge across to Fort Margherita, where an excellent gallery resumes the history of the Brookes, the White Rajahs of Sarawak.

In half an hour from Kuching is Semenggoh’s Orangutan sanctuary , a must-visit place to get close and personal with one of the world’s most endangered primates. 

There are also many national parks around Kuching: Bako National Park , set on a rugged promontory is ideal for a 2 days/1 night trip to properly explore its many hiking trails.  

If you come at the right time, the Gunung Gading National Park near Lundu is a perfect place to spot Rafflesia, the world’s biggest (and foulest-smelling) flower. If you still have time, a trip to Mount Santubong or the endlessly empty beaches of Tanjung Datu National Park will bring you off the grid in an already pretty offbeat Malaysian destination. 

Recommended by Marco Ferrarese from Monkey Rock World

Sandakan might not be on everybody’s bucket list, but after visiting a couple of years ago, it now ranks really high on our list of recommendations!  

It’s easily accessible with  direct flights from Kuala Lumpur , as well as other Malaysian cities such as Kota Kinabalu.

The best time of year for visit is between May and August, but traveling in the shoulder months of April or even March means fewer crowds, cheaper prices and less rain. 

Not only is Sandakan a beautiful and peaceful little city with great food and friendly people, but it also serves as a perfect place to base yourself for a bunch of really exciting activities! 

Not to be missed is a visit to Turtle Island National Park , where you get to experience all of the important conservation efforts going on there while also enjoying an almost off-grid retreat on the paradise island! 

Alternatively, just south of Sandakan is Kinabatangan River , with a couple of nights’ stay at an incredible river-side lodge, a few wildlife river cruises, all of your meals and a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Center often included in the tour!  

Where to stay in Sandakan : We chose to stay at Sandakan Central Hotel as we were wanting somewhere affordable but still in a desirable location, and we were pleasantly surprised by it! 

Recommended by Alex and Harmony from By The Compass

Bako National Park 

Bako National Park is situated in the Sarawak region of Borneo and features some of the most unique wildlife and natural rock formations. 

The closest city to Bako National Park is Kuching. It’s easy to get from Kuching to Bako National Park as there are buses that go there directly. Take the number one red public bus that departs from the Kuching Waterfront area, opposite the Riverside Shopping Complex. 

It’s best to visit Bako National Park in the dry season from March to September. Keep in mind that it tends to get very hot in July, so make sure to stay hydrated. 

There are many hiking trails to explore, ranging from easy to more strenuous hikes. In addition to the hiking trails, wildlife is abundant, and visitors are guaranteed to see some animals. If you’re lucky enough you may even spot a proboscis monkey! 

Depending on the hike you choose, you may need to pay to catch a boat back to the entrance. The boat trip back is amazing though, as you get to sail past the Serpent Rock. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR OF BAKO NATIONAL PARK

Where to stay : There aren’t many accommodations close to Bako National Park, so if you’re on a budget, plan to stay in Kuching – Imperial Riverbank Hote l is a great mid-range option. Kuching is a great place to stay as there are amazing food options to refuel after a day on the trails. 

Recommended by Beth from Frugal Female Abroad 

Mulu National Park 

Mulu National Park is difficult to get to, but a world away from regular Malaysia and well worth the trip. There are stunning caves, hiking trails, ecotourism activities and extreme adventures. Plan ahead with the National Park guides to include canopy experiences, a visit to the Deer or Clearwater caves and definitely arrange to be there for the dusk exodus of the bats from the caves.  

The night walk with rangers is definitely recommended! One of the joys of visiting Mulu is that the sheer numbers of bats mean that there are no mosquitoes!  

There’s no specific best time to visit although July to September is the dry season and will be hotter, so is best avoided if you’re planning on doing strenuous hikes – this is also the peak season to visit and will be busiest. 

There are three ways to get to  Mulu National Park   the riverboat trip (only in the wet season), hiking the several days’ long Headhunters Trail or the more practical way for a weekend getaway in Malaysia, by flying in from Miri.  The airstrip is walkable to virtually all accommodation and there are transport options also available at the airstrip.  

Where to stay : You can choose to stay inside the National Park in the park accommodation, which you can book directly through the Park offices  here  but this can be limited. A recommended homestay option that you can pre-book is Mulu Village . 

Recommended by Sarah from ASocialNomad 

Kota Kinabalu 

The State of Sabah in Malaysia is famous for its beaches, forests, wildlife and water activities. Kota Kinabalu , the capital city of Sabah, reflects the beauty of the state.  

Kota Kinabalu is a heady combination of art, history, shopping, beaches and parties. From experience, we can say it’s one of the most tourist-friendly cities we’ve visited. If you’re looking for a short break, a visit to Kota Kinabalu could be a rejuvenating experience. 

You can get to Kota Kinabalu from KL  by taking a 2.5-hour flight. Cabs are the best way to get around the city. The weather is moderate throughout the year with regular showers keeping the heat at bay.

Things to see and do include Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu, the City Mosque. Surrounded by water, the Mosque is a beautiful example of modern Islamic architecture.  

Another attraction is the Sabah Museum. They have several displays of history, art, textiles, ethnography, archaeology and even a heritage village. You can also visit Tanjung Aru Beach late afternoon for the most beautiful sunset, providing a gorgeous assortment of colors.  

There are many cool cafes and bars and The Waterfront is the most popular hangout zone for locals and tourists. If you’re in the mood for shopping, Imago Mall has a variety of stores. 

Where to stay : One of the best places to stay in Kota Kinabalu is Hotel Avangio  which is moderately priced with comfortable rooms with enough facilities, including a pool. 

Pro-tip : There are some amazing trekking, water sports and diving destinations around Kota Kinabalu. 

Recommended by Sundeep and Bedabrata from Delhi Fun Dos 

I hope this guide gave you some ideas for your short getaway in Malaysia. Let me know in the comments below which location you’re planning to visit first for your short trip in Malaysia!

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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.

Le Pouce Mountain Mauritius: Complete Hiking Guide

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• Travel Guide
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14 Super Affordable Destinations In Malaysia For The Ultimate Weekend Trip

Cheng Sim  •  Jul 11, 2017

[ Updated 11 October 2020] Halfway between a busy work week and a Monday is the weekend where we’re free to explore, discover and dream as we please. While some spend their time redeeming their sleep debts and others hanging out with their friends, real travellers would snatch up this opportunity to plan an exciting weekend trip in Malaysia. If you’re living in Malaysia or planning a vacation here in the near future, we've got great news! There are many super affordable destinations in Malaysia to enjoy your weekend break and you can do it on a budget too! Don’t believe us? Follow our lead and we’ll show you where to go ?

1. Taiping, Perak

2. Muar, Johor

3. Alor Setar, Kedah

4. Ipoh, Perak

6. Johor Bahru, Johor

7. George Town, Penang

8. Seremban, Negeri Sembilan

9. Kuantan, Pahang

10. Sekinchan, Selangor

11. Kota Bharu, Kelantan

12. Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu

13. Taman Negara, Pahang

14. Kangar, Perlis

Save to Bucket List

The Cost of Travel in Malaysia: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

Malaysia might be one of the most pleasant travel surprises I’ve come across. 

It was the second country in my year of travelling throughout Asia as a digital nomad and it was always my intention throughout this year to go with the flow. Of course, I had some top countries in mind that I knew I wanted to get to, but when and how, I left up to fate. 

So when I was searching for flights out of Guilin (China), Kuala Lumpur was one of the few destinations that didn’t require a long, expensive flight. So I thought to myself, “I guess Malaysia is my next stop!” And well, that stop turned into traveling throughout Malaysia for six weeks, because I just kept wanting to explore and enjoy it more. 

I think because I traveled there with no expectations and just excitement for the unknown, my experience was similar to the feeling of going to an amusement park for the first time as a kid — Malaysia evoked a sense of childlike wonder and play. 

Whether it was the energy of the locals, the diverse food, the street art, the beautiful nature, I was continuously pulled in by this country. Not to mention, it felt easy to stay there. Your money goes a long way, English is commonly spoken, and the infrastructure is very established.

I loved my time there so much that even after I’d left, I found my mind kept wandering back to my time in Penang or the Cameron Highlands. A few weeks ago, I again found myself in Asia with no set plans, and again there a cheap flight to KL showed up in my search. Well, you can guess what happened!

I was thrilled to find that things really haven’t changed a lot since the pandemic. Sure, accommodation prices have gone up a bit like they have everywhere, but they’re still super-affordable, and everything else like food, drink, and transport is still cheap and accessible even to those on a budget.

It seems that Malaysia is often overlooked by people traveling through the region, but after experiencing the many extraordinary layers of this country, I don’t understand why! One thing is for sure—anytime I talk about it with another traveler, we’re both in agreement on how great of a destination it is. 

If you have the chance to go, or even find yourself in nearby Singapore with a few days to spare, then I’d highly recommend making the trip. Have no expectations and get ready to be blown away by this wonderful country. 

What’s Included in This Post 

This budget breakdown covers how much I spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, and food while I travelled around the country.

I’ve not included my flights into and out of Malaysia, since this is going to vary significantly based on where you’ll be arriving from.

The amounts in this guide are listed in U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S. I also included some prices in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR or RM), as this is the local currency and what you will use day to day around the country. 

Now let’s talk about expenses!

How to Save Money on Accommodation in Malaysia

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year.

If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

The Cost of Accommodation in Malaysia 

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are  hostels . In Malaysia, you’ll find hostels all over the country, from tiny islands to large cities and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which will usually come in at around  $30-$70 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

That being said, if hostels aren’t your jam, you can still find a number of amazing hotel and homestay options for a great price. You might be looking at anywhere from $50-$100 a night for these places, depending on their location in the city. 

Here’s a list of my favourite accommodation options in Malaysia:

Kuala Lumpur — Star KLCC ($55 a night): Kuala Lumpur is one of those capital cities that’s more than just a stopover. I’d recommend spending at least 3 days before onwards travel through Malaysia; and there’s no better place to stay than Star KLCC. Right in the heart of the city, with amazing views and an easy walk to lovely KLCC park and the famous Petronas Towers, I really couldn’t have asked for a better location to explore KL from. My room was super clean and spacious, I loved having access to the pool to cool off after a long day walking around the city, and there was even a gym so I could try and work off some of those delicious curries I’d been eating!

George Town — Ren I Tang Heritage Inn ($58 a night) : Penang, and specifically George Town has my heart. I stayed at Ren I Tang for a week and I don’t think I could have chosen a better short-term home. It’s in a lovely old building from the 1800s that’s been fully restored but kept so many of the original features, from timber floors to a rope pulley to take luggage up to the top levels! Each room is a little different, adding to the charm. The breakfast is great, with Western and several local options each day., Malay, and the location can’t be beat: right in the heart of Little India, only a couple of blocks from Love Lane and all the murals and street art that Penang is famous for.

Langkawi — The Smith House ($65 a night): For an affordable but luxurious island stay, look no further than The Smith House. The rooms are super-spacious, clean, well-decorated, and include a smart TV for chilling in the evening. I felt that I was staying in a hotel that is much more expensive than it is, with such lovely rooms and wonderful staff. They always made me feel right at home with their friendliness and assistance: whatever I wanted to do on the island, they could easily help arrange it. That’s assuming you can drag yourself away from the gorgeous, sunny rooftop pool, of course!

Cameron Highlands — Fathers Guesthouse ($31 a night): Located in a peaceful spot but with easy access to the small town of Tanah Rata, Fathers Guesthouse is the perfect place to stay during your time in the Cameron Highlands. After a day of meandering through the famous tea plantations, forests, and lavender farms, I loved returning to the friendly staff, clean room, and relaxed atmosphere here. I had a bit of a personal issue while I was there and wasn’t able to go out for dinner one evening: one of the lovely staff members offered to go out and pick something up for me instead! Now that’s good service!

Malacca — Old Town Guesthouse ($32 a night): While visiting the historical city of Malacca, I’d highly recommend staying at the Old Town Guesthouse. It’s nice and close to the major attractions in the city like Christ Church and the Jonker Street night market, with lively, colorful decor that makes the place really come alive, but it’s the friendliness of the owner that really made the difference for me. Chatty and happy to share his recommendations on the best food and attractions in Malacca and the rest of the country, he really helped me make the most of my time in this lovely part of Malaysia.

Ipoh — Ipoh Bali Hotel ($65 a night): I’m so glad I made a short stop in the quaint city of Ipoh. It’s a great place to visit on your way to or from the Cameron Highlands and it has a lot of the charm that I loved about George Town—only with less crowds! Staying at the cozy Ipoh Bali Hotel meant that all the best parts of town were just a short Grab/taxi ride away, although honestly my room was so lovely, it was tempting just to stay inside and chill instead! It was great to have breakfast included (you choose what you’d like the day before, and get a call in the morning when it’s ready), and I loved being able to have a bath for a change: most hotels in Malaysia are shower-only, but not this one!

The Cost of Transportation in Malaysia  

I found transportation around Malaysia to be quite affordable. I mostly just used it between cities, since most of the accommodation I stayed in was close enough to the main attractions that I just walked wherever I needed to go. On the odd occasion when I needed to go further, though, Grab (the Southeast Asia Uber equivalent) really came in handy and again, didn’t cost much.

Buses —For long distance travel between cities, buses are the way to go. They leave very frequently from major bus stations and I found them to be pretty punctual and comfortable. There are over 100 bus companies to choose from in Malaysia; I can personally would recommend travelling with any of the below because of their good value and reputation. I mostly travelled with Plusliner and Transnasional and have no complaints!

• Super Nice 
• Plusliner 
• Transnasional  

A one-way bus ticket will cost you around $4-$11 (RM 15-RM 50) depending on the time and route. You can also book bus tickets and compare prices of companies on 12Go Asia , this was a super easy way for me to book intercity travel during my time in Malaysia 

Motorbike — If you or a travel partner is comfortable, I’d recommend renting a scooter or motorbike for daily excursions, specifically in Penang, Langkawi and the Cameron Highlands. It’s a cheap, fun, and easy way to get around in places where local public transport isn’t as frequent or widespread. You’re looking at anywhere from $4-$8 a day (RM 20-RM 40) , depending on the age and model of bike and how long you’re renting for. That doesn’t include gas which only costs around RM 10 / $2 for a gallon. 

Grab Taxi — I loved the convenience of Grab, specifically during my time in Kuala Lumpur. Grab isn’t in demand outside of major cities (this is when renting a motorbike comes in handy), but it’s a cheap and easy way to get around if you need to go a little further out or are short on time. I just looked through a bunch of my Grab receipts, and my cheapest one-way fare was 85 cents (RM 4) and my most expensive one was $5.50 (RM 25) . Not bad at all!

Flight — When I was travelling to Langkawi, my ferry got cancelled due to rough seas, so I ended up taking a last minute flight with AirAsia . In general, I wouldn’t recommend travelling by plane for the most part just because buses are so easy and cheap, but if you have to, then definitely go with AirAsia. My flight ended up costing me $30 (RM 143) . 

Ferry — Since the pandemic, the ferry between Penang and Langkawi sadly no longer operates: you now need to travel from either Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis further up the coast. Getting there is a bit of a hassle, so most tourists now fly that route instead. If you did want to take the ferry, though, it leaves twice a day in both directions and costs RM27-34.50 ($6-7.50) each way . 

The Cost of Food in Malaysia 

Wow. What can I say about Malaysian food that will do it justice? I can easily say that out of all the places I’ve been, Malaysia has to be in my top three for food. The fusion of Indian, Chinese, and local Malay flavors result in a huge variety of dishes and specialties that will create a party in your belly. 

When it comes to Malaysian food, it’s hard to go wrong, but these are some of my favorite dishes that you absolutely have to try while you’re there:

• Char kuay teow (stir-fry noodles)
• Nasi lemak (rice cooked in coconut milk with a spicy chili sauce)
• Banana leaf (a banana leaf plate with rice and a variety of curries)
• Laksa (spicy noodle soup)
• Cendol (a dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, jelly and palm sugar) 

Because of the delicious tastes and affordable costs, I pretty much always ate out during my travels in Malaysia. Penang and Kuala Lumpur are specifically foodie hotspots, with several street food markets and stalls and a near-endless range of great restaurants. Compared to many other countries, eating out is easy, delicious, and cheap!

The only real exception is alcohol: it’s only allowed to be sold to non-Muslims, and has the third-highest tax rate in the world. For that reason, you may find yourself drinking less booze than usual while you’re here! If you do want a beer to help wash down that spicy laksa, you’ll pay around $2 (RM 9-10) for a can of Tiger from a convenience store, or RM 15 in a restaurant.

You can expect to pay around $2-$6.50 (RM 10-RM30) for street food dishes like the ones I mentioned above. I’d recommend getting a couple of smaller dishes paired with a water or soft drink; it’ll only cost you around $6-7 for your meal. It doesn’t cost much more in small local restaurants either, especially away from the tourist areas.

Because a simple breakfast is included at most hostels, if I only ate at local restaurants and street food stands for lunch and dinner, I’d typically spend around $15 (RM 72) per day on food.  

The other thing worth noting about Malaysia is that there’s an incredible coffee culture scene. I typically worked from a different coffee shop everyday, and found the coffee and food scene there to be both high-quality and reasonably priced.

A good latte will set you back around $3 (RM 15) , so if you’re like me and have a huge affinity for cute cafes, then add on another $5 – $10 per day (RM 24 – RM 48) . When you’re in Penang, you have to have a cup of coffee and a piece of cake at ChinaHouse. I can highly recommend the tiramisu!

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Malaysia   

Of all the things I loved about travel in Malaysia, being able to have an amazing time without spending much on tourist activities was right near the top. My favorite memories mostly involve me exploring the myriad of street art, architecture, and stunning natural attractions, and of course, eating all the food. 

George Town and Kuala Lumpur are shining stars for this. I got so much joy from simply spending my days on a treasure hunt for all the famous street murals in George Town, while in Kuala Lumpur, the exquisite temples and bustling street life of Chinatown and Little India left me energised every time I left my hotel!

Of all the places I went and things I did, seeing the Batu Caves (on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur) was absolutely one of the stand-out attractions. You might be familiar with the caves if you follow a lot of travel influencers, as it’s become a pretty popular spot. It’s not hard to understand why, given all of the colorful, rainbow-painted steps surrounded by gorgeous limestone cliffs. I’d never seen anything like it in my life.

This is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India, and once you climb to the top and meander through the series of cave temples, you’ll definitely understand why. Just make sure you don’t have any exposed food, or else those pesky monkeys will be all over you. 

Elsewhere in Malaysia, I still had an absolute blast. A friend recommended that I sign up for a cycling tour in Penang, and I wasn’t disappointed. This was a great way to see another side of the island up close and through the eyes of someone who has lived there his whole life. 

Here’s a breakdown of some my favourite attractions in Malaysia and their respective costs: 

• Batu Caves: FREE to enter. You can also take an inexpensive day tour to the caves, which makes getting there and back much easier.
• Petronas Towers: $21 (RM 98) . Skip-the-line e-tickets are also available for a few dollars more.
• KL Forest Eco Park: $8.50 (RM 40)
• Parasailing (Langkawi) : $44 (RM 210)  
• Kek Lok Si Temple (Penang): FREE 
• Boh Tea Plantations (Cameron Highlands): FREE  
• Penang Hill: $6.50 (RM 30)
• Penang Countryside Cycling Tour : $31 (RM 145)

The Cost of Miscellaneous Expenses in Malaysia

A local SIM card:  I don’t know about you, but one of my least favourite aspects of arriving in a new country is having to figure out how to get connected. Specifically: buying a local SIM card so that I have data to use while I’m in the country.

There’s locating a store that will sell you one, language barriers to deal with, various forms of ID you might need to bring, scams to navigate, and… well, it’s a headache.

This year, I started using  Airalo , which sells local e-SIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy your SIM card online  before  you arrive in Malaysia, and then as soon as you land in the country, you can switch on your data and start using it. It’s worked flawlessly for me and now I’ll never go back to physical SIM cards. You’ll pay  $4.50 for 1 GB of data  or $25 for 10 GB for Malaysia and can also top-up through the Airalo app.

(Ensure you have an e-SIM compatible phone before buying — all recent iPhones and many Androids are).

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

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

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Malaysia. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Malaysia? 

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs!

• Accommodation: $51 per day for two people in double/twin rooms ($25.50 each)
• Transportation: $15 per day
• Food: $18 per day
• Activities/Entrance Fees: $10 per day

Average amount spent in Malaysia: $68.50 a day!

Related Articles on Malaysia 🇲🇾 Where to Eat in Kota Kinabalu 🪲 Catching Fireflies on the Kawa Kawa River 🚍 How to Get from Brunei to Kota Kinabalu

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Things to Do in Malaysia

Common Greetings

Currency in Malaysia

Scams to Avoid

Visiting Kuala Lumpur

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation Guide

Top Things to Do

Guide to Malaysian Street Food

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

simonlong / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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9 of the best places to go in Malaysia

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

From the top food destinations to getting away from it all in the highlands, here are the best places to visit in Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Split across two different land masses, Malaysia instantly poses a dilemma. Do you visit Peninsular Malaysia, which borders Thailand to the north and Singapore down south? Or do you head across the South China Sea to Borneo – a jungly island shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and the Kingdom of Brunei? 

Good news: both sides of Malaysia have soft sandy beaches and snorkel-worthy coves, though Malaysian Borneo has superior access to marine life. Borneo is also the best pick for jungle trekking, though you can explore national parks and hilly hiking terrain across Peninsular Malaysia, too – like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands . Many parks and beauty spots are almost on top of the cities, making Peninsular Malaysia an excellent choice for families who want to spot hornbills by day, but bed down in modern comfort.

Peninsular Malaysia is also where you'll find the buzz. Gastronomes, shoppers and museum hounds can enjoy their fill in cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur , food-forward Penang  and cultural jigsaw Melaka . Plot your own path with a little help from our list of the best places to go in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the best place to go for a whirlwind tour 

If you have grand ambitions but limited time, head to Kuala Lumpur. Parts of KL feel like a quintessential capital city, with chic shopping malls (like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC), a competitive cocktail scene and a sci-fi skyline – the Petronas Towers rise up like twin rockets, while Menara KL glows like a futuristic lighthouse (head to the 300m-high (984ft) sky deck for an expansive view). But KL offers more than fast-paced urban commotion. 

KL's city swagger comes accompanied by nature and history, courtesy of time-worn temples, kopitiam (traditional coffee houses), and rainforests almost side by side with high-rise buildings. Places of worship like scarlet multi-story Thean Hou Temple and ornate Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad inspire contemplation and wonder.

If you're looking for places to visit in Malaysia in three days, KL has day-trip potential, too. Listen to birdsong at KL Forest Eco Park , picnic by a waterfall at the Forest Research Institute ; and less than an hour's drive away is Mah Meri Cultural Village , where you can immerse yourself in indigenous Orang Asli art and history. 

Encounter pristine nature in Gunung Mulu National Park

Remarkably rocky, tremendously old and a theater for eye-popping natural spectacles, Gunung Mulu is arguably Malaysia's best national park. Between Gunung Mulu (2376m/7795ft) and Gunung Api (1710m/5610ft) are old-growth forests, limestone pinnacles and deep caves, home to millions of bats that take flight every twilight – watch the drama unfold at Deer Cave . 

Where to begin exploring? DIY experiences include the Mulu canopy walk (a suspended ladder through the treetops), an easy ramble to Paku Waterfall or the Botanical Heritage Loop Trail.

If you have tough hiking boots and even tougher endurance, book a guide and tackle the three-day Pinnacles trek. The climbs are steep, but you'll be rewarded by panoramic views of dense jungle spiked with fins of limestone. 

Penang is the top destination for food, drink and sensory pleasures

Penang's foodie status is uncontested. Travelers flock from across Malaysia (and beyond) to experience Gurney Drive's seafood restaurants, slurp Penang laksa at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and follow their noses to barbecued seafood at the Chew Jetties . But even beyond the sizzle of char kway teow (rice noodles with prawns, eggs and more), Penang can tickle your senses.

Inhale the tang of 500 herbs and aromatics at Tropical Spice Garden . Listen to the chatter of macaques at Penang National Park , the country's smallest. Gawp at the architectural splendor of Khoo Kongsi clubhouse and the intricately carved Pinang Peranakan Mansion . Alternatively, get bang up to date with contemporary art at Hin Bus Station .  

Tip for timing your visit: Penang is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in December, when the west coast enjoys good weather while winds batter the east. 

Kuching is the perfect urban-jungle mash-up

We hear the dilemma: you want access to nature without committing to a tent in the jungle. And you want to experience the buzz of a Malaysian city without the high-octane hubbub of KL. Kuching , the capital of Bornean state Sarawak, is your happy medium. 

Kuching is a launchpad to Borneo's glorious wilderness. From here, you can easily meet orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre , or day-trip to Bako National Park to look for bearded pigs and proboscis monkeys.

But before stepping beyond the city limits, let Kuching work its charms. Stroll the waterfront promenade, where you can see views of Kuching's architectural treasury: the Astana (palace) and its trim gardens, the State Assembly  and the swirling Darul Hana pedestrian bridge. Admire Chinese temples, browse the weekend market and learn the history of Sarawak's White Rajas at hilltop Fort Margherita . 

Pulau Perhentian are the best islands for sunshine and snorkeling

Mentioning the Perhentians to Malaysian people elicits a longing smile. The Perhentian Islands are synonymous with brilliant beaches and marine life, plus there's a party scene to keep beach bums dancing until the wee hours. The trick is to find your perfect beach.

Searching for spectacular sunsets? Head to Coral Bay. Green turtles? The turtle project on Main Beach. Late-night beach parties? Long Beach. There are numerous beaches where you can go sea kayaking and snorkel among parrotfish and giant clams; hardened divers can go deeper to visit wrecks and commune with clownfish, reef sharks and stingrays. Time your visit for dry season between March and October (but avoid July, when crowds reach their peak).  

Melaka is a cultural smorgasbord 

Nowhere in Malaysia is the tumult of past colonial rule felt more strongly than in port cities, and Melaka is emblematic of this cultural collision.

Melaka is perched on Peninsular Malaysia's west coast, and successive colonists (Portuguese, Dutch, British) vied for control over this trading port and maritime waystation. Today, Melaka harbors a number of variegated food cultures, a hodge-podge of architecture and alluring night markets.

Glimpse Portuguese history by clambering aboard the replica Flor de la Mar ship and sampling baked fish at Medan Portugis. Time-travel forward to Dutch rule by touring the Stadthuys (now a history museum) and salmon-pink Christ Church . Other cornerstones of history are "China Hill" cemetery and Peranakan (Straits Chinese) mansions, notably the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum . 

Melaka's multidimensional cultures have helped fuel a roaring tourist trade. Colorful trishaws offer joyrides and history tours, while Jonker Walk Night Market is the evening's entertainment, offering everything from open-air karaoke to nibbling on Nyonya zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings).

Take refreshing upland hikes in the Cameron Highlands

Malaysia's most famous hill stations snooze among the vivid green tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands . Temperatures seldom stray higher than 30°C (86°F), attracting locals and tourists alike to cool off in these 4265ft to 6000ft (1300m to 1829m) heights. Many folks pick strawberries at Raaju's Hill or make a beeline (sorry) for the honey farm – but there are more authentic natural encounters in the Camerons. 

Take a guided hike with Eco Cameron to marvel at orchids and hunt for the whopping rafflesia flower. You can also go alone: numbered hiking trails extend right from main towns Brinchang and Tanah Rata (ask locally about trail safety, as robberies have been reported on some routes). Inevitably, you'll reward your outdoor exertions by sipping a cup of tea (or three) at a plantation. Boh Sungei Palas has some of the best views, with Boh Tea Garden a close second. 

Ipoh is Malaysia's best unsung destination

To Malay people, Ipoh is deservedly famous. For one, Ipoh's sweet, creamy white coffee is legendary. The town is the capital of Perak, a region of past tin-mining wealth that spawned colonial follies like Kellie's Castle . Then there are the regional delicacies – chicken bean sprouts, bean curd pudding – that bring KL day trippers piling into Ipoh eateries. 

But for international travelers, Ipoh has remained firmly off the map – overlooked on the rush between KL and Penang. So if you're looking for unique places to visit in Malaysia, buck the trend and head to Ipoh. Its hilly outskirts are jeweled with cave temples; statue-studded Sam Poh Tong has a crimson pavilion secreted away among the limestone cliffs. In town, street art by famed Lithuanian muralist Ernest Zacharevic splashes the walls, shophouses on once-notorious Concubine Lane retain their antique flavor, and the train station has attracted the nickname Taj Mahal (you be the judge). 

Tioman Island is the best place to unwind

Picture it: palm trees and hibiscus flowers swaying in the sea breeze, and perhaps a sea breeze cocktail making its way into your hand as you settle in at a bar. This 52.5 sq mi (136 sq km) island begs you to unwind, embrace a slower pace and maybe get that tie-dye T-shirt.

Your only burden? Picking a village where you can settle down, uncrick your neck and maybe catch a wave or two. Kampung Juara is the best surf spot, with two wide, sandy beaches, plenty of places offering board and kayak hire, and, better yet, a turtle sanctuary on Mentawak Beach. Kampung Salang is backpacker central, with access to popular shores like white-sand Monkey Beach and occasional beach parties. To feel far from the beaten track, head to tucked-away villages like quiet, traditional Kampung Mukut . But wherever you sling your rucksack, make time for marine encounters. Tioman has extensive coral reefs (and abundant manta rays), and March to October is prime time for divers.

This article was first published Feb 23, 2022 and updated Jan 29, 2024.

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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

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

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

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

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

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

Kuala Kangsar

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

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

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

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

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

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

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

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

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redang Island

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

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

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

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

Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

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

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

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

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

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

Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

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

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

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

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

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.

Wow, Very beautiful places I must visit this year. Love from Pakistan

It’s worth it!

Comments are closed.

The Cheapest (and Safest) Places to Live in the World

Posted: July 3, 2024 | Last updated: July 3, 2024

Cost of Living: US $1,180

Global Peace Index: #7

Portugal’s popularity has exploded in recent years, and for good reason: Portugal’s living costs are affordable, the culture is welcoming and it’s safe. For a relatively small country, Portugal’s regions are very diverse, from Lisbon’s nightlife to the beach scene in the Algarve. The weather is mild, the food exciting (especially if you like seafood) and time moves a little slower here.

Related: 10 of the Most Beautiful Streets and Neighbourhoods in the World

Cost of Living: US $1,230

Global Peace Index: #9

Slovenia’s affordable housing, healthcare, education and leisure options, combined with its safety and stability, make it an attractive destination for those seeking a high quality of life at a relatively low cost of living. The scenery is pretty nice, too.

You Might Also Like: Silent Travel is the New 2024 Wellness Trend

Cost of Living: US $598

Global Peace Index: #10

Malaysia is the third of three countries on our list that are also in the Global Peace Index’s Top 10. Located in Southeast Asia, the country ranks high for safety, has a low cost of living and great quality of life. Add modern infrastructure, stunning natural attractions and cultural diversity and you’ve got an affordable and comfortable place to call home.

Czech Republic (Czechia)

Cost of Living: US $1,284

Global Peace Index: #12

If you’re looking for a high standard of living at a reasonable cost, the Czech Republic (or Czechia) is a great choice. The crime rate is low, and thanks to a large expat community, you’ll find it easy to settle in. The country has a rich history and is filled with stunning architecture. There’s a vibrant cultural scene, especially in Prague and Brno, where you’ll also find modern amenities mixed with old-world charm.

Related: 9 World-Renowned Buildings Designed by Canadian Architects

Cost of Living: US $786

Global Peace Index: #26

Bulgaria is known for its low living costs, affordable housing and inexpensive dining and entertainment options. The country boasts a low crime rate and safe and friendly big cities like Sofia. While there are minor concerns, such as petty crime, overall, Bulgaria is an attractive spot for expats and retirees.

Cost of Living: US $1,002

Global Peace Index: #30

Latvia is an affordable and safe destination for expats. The cost of living is relatively low compared to Western Europe. A monthly budget of $1,000 will afford you a comfortable lifestyle. Rents are reasonable, even in the capital Riga, where you can get a one-bedroom apartment for about $350. Eating out won’t break the bank either. The weather isn’t tropical but you’ll find it similar to many parts of Canada.

Related: A Travel Lover’s Guide to Decorating With Souvenirs: Try These 10 Smart Ideas

Cost of Living: US $628

Global Peace Index: #41

Vietnam offers a low cost of living, a safe environment, a friendly culture and job opportunities in areas such as teaching English. Depending on the job and your qualifications, getting work permits and visas can be a smooth process. Housing, food and transportation are all very affordable, and Vietnam’s warm climate and incredible scenery only add to its charm.

Cost of Living: US $1,073

Global Peace Index: #58

Costa Rica makes an ideal destination for Canadian expats thanks to its tropical climate, low cost of living and high quality of life. The country offers breathtaking natural beauty with clean beaches, lush rainforests and incredibly diverse wildlife. If you like the outdoors, you’ll find the perfect lifestyle here. Affordable housing and healthcare also help stretch the Canadian dollar. Your tropical paradise is just a flight away!

Related: Top 20 Most Popular Home-buying Destinations for Canadians

Cost of Living: US $1,040

Global Peace Index: #64

Chile is a safe and affordable place for Canadian expats due to its low cost of living, stable economy and relatively low crime rates compared to other countries in Latin America. Even on a limited budget, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in coastal cities like La Serena, Viña del Mar and Arica. With an easy visa process, Chile makes an excellent choice for those looking for a cheap and safe place to live.

Cost of Living: US $835

Global Peace Index: #76

Thailand’s low cost of living and relatively low violent crime rates make it an excellent expat option. Canadians can comfortably live on modest incomes as housing, food and healthcare are very affordable. While crimes like theft do happen, violent crime is rare. Air pollution and dangerous road conditions may be a concern for some, so taking a test drive before committing to a long-term stay is always a good idea.

Related: The Easiest Ways to Care for Your Plants When On Vacation

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Malaysia travel guide: the true Asia, two ways

Combine a city break in Kuala Lumpur with island relaxation on Langkawi for the best of multicultural Malaysia

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• Why you should visit

What to see and do

Where to stay.

To say one country encapsulates the world's largest continent is quite the claim, yet the "Malaysia, Truly Asia" tourism slogan lives up to the hype. But what no tagline could capture is the sheer vibrancy of this multicultural peninsula, where worshippers pray in temples dotted between towering skyscrapers, while mischievous "mafia" monkeys prey on unwitting tourists (of which more later).

Why you should visit Malaysia

Set at the meeting point between the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean, Malaysia has been dubbed "Asia's Melting Pot". Following centuries of trade and colonisation, the population comprises three main ethnic communities: Chinese, Indians and Malays.

For a concentrated taste of the resulting rich cultural stew, head to Kuala Lumpur . The world's sixth most visited city last year, the Malaysian capital is a chaotic blend of sleek hotels and crumbling colonial-era buildings, Michelin-starred restaurants and street-food stands, upmarket malls and outdoor markets, plus world-famous sights such as the Petronas Twin Towers.

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Kuala Lumpur is also home to some great green spaces, but to experience Malaysia's tropical rainforests and golden beaches, you'll need to go a little further afield. An hour from the capital by plane is Langkawi , an archipelago of 99 islands along the country's northwest coast. The main island, also called Langkawi, is home to around 100,000 people, whose numbers are being bumped up by a growing stream of tourists.

Langkawi's mangrove forests cover more than 3,000 hectares (7,400 acres)

Yet Langkawi is not over-developed: it was awarded Unesco Global Geopark status in 2007, prompting a push towards geotourism. The local tour guides have plenty of material to work with in the island's ancient jungles and labyrinth of mangroves housing sea caves and millions-year-old rock formations.

And then, of course, there's the wildlife. The island is named after the reddish-brown (kawi) sea eagles (lang) that dominate the skies above. Other, less obvious, predators to watch out for are Langkawi's gangs of long-tailed brown macaques, nicknamed the "monkey mafia" by locals owing to their habit of snatching not only food but also phones. A tip for targeted tourists: offer the gangster macaque food with both hands to make them drop the loot.

Assuming visitors hang on to their phones, both Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur are packed with Instagram-worthy sights. 

The capital also has plenty to offer nature lovers, who can find tranquillity in the 227-acre Lake Gardens in the heart of the city. A short stroll away is Kuala Lumpur's Bird Park, an enclosed aviary of more than 3,000 birds from more than 200 species. And there are more attractions to get visitors' hearts aflutter at the neighbouring Butterfly Park, billed as the world's largest, with more than 5,000 butterflies.

Kuala Lumpur claims another record with the Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin skyscrapers at 1,483ft (452 metres). The towers' Observation Deck offers unbeatable views of the city's eclectic architecture and neighbourhoods, each of which have a distinctive vibe.

Among the most atmospheric is Brickfields, aka Little India, a colourful maze of shops and stalls selling saris, spices, flower garlands and more, amid packed temples, churches and mosques. There are plenty of opportunities to feed body as well as soul here too, at low-key restaurants serving high-quality food including Malaysia's national dish, nasi lemak , a spicy coconut rice.

Foodies are equally well served on Langkawi, where floating fish farms double as restaurants where diners can select their still-flapping meal from containment nets and aquariums. These fish farms are popular stopping points on mangrove river cruise tours, an unmissable experience for any visitor.

Mangrove cruises on the Kilim River are a great way to spot wildlife and learn about this delicate ecosystem

Highlights of a cruise through Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, one of the island's three main conservation areas, include hand-feeding stingrays and exploring limestone caves where hundreds of bats hang overhead (visitors are advised to close their mouths when looking up, to avoid an unwanted feeding of droppings). 

Expert guides also help cruise-goers to get up close – but not too close – to the park's many other inhabitants, from crocodiles and kingfishers to otters and snakes. And visitors can do their bit to help with conservation efforts by planting mangrove trees, which can store up to 10 times more carbon than forests.

Slightly less virtuous but just as unmissable is a sunset cruise around the archipelago. Guests can sip cocktails and cool off from the tropical heat in the bath-temperature Andaman Sea. Along with water sports, there is further entertainment to be had watching local fishermen's dogs living their best lives after swimming to nearby island shores for doggy playdates.

The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur sits amid skyscrapers besides the city's largest park, the Lake Gardens

Tourists also looking to live their best lives in Malaysia can get off to the right start by checking into a St. Regis hotel. 

Offering grandeur with a great location, the St. Regis Kuala Lumpur overlooks the Lake Gardens in the Sentral district, a key transportation hub. In a nod to the city's multicultural identity, the 48-storey hotel blends Asian aesthetics with art deco style, with acres of gleaming marble and crystal-chandeliered high ceilings.

Those high ceilings are a boon come sunset, when, as in all St. Regis properties, a daily champagne sabring ritual takes place. Inspired by Napoleon Bonaparte, who opened bubbly with his sabre in both victory and defeat, the hotel's bottle-chopping fun offers guests the chance to enjoy a free drink and even have a go at sabring. Though, presumably, only while sober.   

The ritual is one of a series introduced by the St. Regis chain founder John Jacob Astor IV, who later went down with the Titanic. Astor's other innovations include a 24-hour butler service tailored to meet guests' every need, from unpacking luggage to delivering a morning cuppa.

The hotel's suites and bathrooms have stunning views over Kuala Lumpur

The rooms are equally top-notch, with floor-to-ceiling windows and mod cons including hi-tech toilets with an electronic bidet and seat warmer (don't knock it till you've tried it). On a more high-brow note, the hotel's attractions also include an impressive collection of artwork by big names including Andy Warhol and Terry O'Neill.

Food is another draw at the St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, which is home to seven restaurants and bars, including a sushi joint overseen by three Michelin-starred chef Takashi Saito.

The Brasserie has a French cafe vibe and a superb menu that blends vibrant European and Malaysian flavours

The hotel's largest restaurant is The Brasserie, which along with French-Mediterranean cuisine, serves an incredibly extensive buffet breakfast. Possibly the only thing not on the menu is durian, an extremely pungent Malaysian fruit that is banned in most public buildings.

Only the sweetest of smells can be scented at the hotel's spa, where bespoke massages are a great way to relax after a stint in the rooftop pool or adjacent gym. With all these facilities, little wonder that some people decide to stay for good: while the hotel's first 21 storeys house 208 guest rooms, those above are filled with residences inhabited by permanent "guests", including families with pets.

The St. Regis Langkawi hugs the turquoise Andaman Sea

Sadly for visitors considering selling up back home, no residency options are available at the St. Regis Langkawi . But few will forget a stay at this idyllic island retreat, tucked between rainforest and the sea, a short drive from Langkawi’s main town, Kuah. 

The vibe throughout the hotel is laid-back glamour, with grand, light-drenched spaces full of local artworks, and colour schemes influenced by the sea and the island vegetation. 

Suites at the beachside hotel are havens of luxury and comfort

Those themes continue in the 85 spacious suites and in Kayuputi, a fine-dining restaurant standing on stilts above the water beside the hotel's private beach. Designed by top architect Bill Bensley, Kayuputi ("white wood" in Indonesian) is like the world's plushest beach hut, with teak columns and antiques galore inside, and an outdoor deck that's the perfect setting for sunset cocktails.

The Bill Bensley-designed Kayuputi restaurant is evocative of an art collector's holiday home 

Come morning, the place to be is the hotel's all-day dining restaurant L’Orangerie, where the St. Regis team again score top marks with the vast breakfast buffet. 

For a quintessentially island experience, though, nothing beats the beachfront Pantai Grill. With platters of succulent charcoal-grilled meats and seafood served at tables on the golden sand, this is how barbecues are meant to be done.

Diners can enjoy delicious wood-fired food only metres from the shore at Pantai Grill

The St. Regis Langkawi also provides a lesson in meeting guests' many other wishes, with a hair salon, spa, gym, boutique and ballroom, plus live music every evening in the bar. A host of activities are on offer too, from paddleboarding and kayaking to wine tasting and batik painting.

Of course, some guests may prefer to just relax in the seafront infinity pool. But as with Malaysia in general, the beauty lies in the "endless possibilities", to quote another of the country's tourism slogans. Just watch out for the monkeys.

Kari Wilkin was a guest of the St. Regis Kuala Lumpur and the St. Regis Langkawi

Room rates start from £176/$223 (double room) at the St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, 6, Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, Kuala Lumpur, 50470 Malaysia. Room rates start from £221/$280 (double room) at the St. Regis Langkawi, Jalan Pantai Beringin, Langkawi, 07000 Malaysia. For more information, visit marriott.com

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Kari Wilkin is The Week Digital’s global managing editor. She joined the UK site as production editor in 2017, after moving across from The Week magazine. Her career as a journalist began as a sub-editor at newspapers including The Sun, Metro, the Daily Star and News of the World, followed by stints at Elle and Asda Magazine. She also helped to launch the UK edition of Women’s Health magazine, as chief sub-editor with a sideline in writing; has penned travel and lifestyle articles for titles including The Telegraph and The Sun; and is a contributor on “The Week Unwrapped” podcast.

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Malaysia picks up pace in tourism, thanks to China tourists

Sunday, 30 Jun 2024

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Malaysia’s beaches, like this one in Tanjung Aru, Sabah, are always popular with tourists from China. — Photos: Pixabay

Japan and Thailand top the list of Asian destinations for Chinese tourists heading abroad this summer, as the world’s biggest market of travellers look for holidays that offer good value.

South Korea and Japan have already seen a surge of Chinese tourists after their currencies weakened against the yuan, while South-East Asian countries including Malaysia and Thailand lure tourists with visa-free entry and relatively lower costs, according to Cirium seat capacity data, flight ticketing analysis from ForwardKeys and online travel sites’ bookings.

Amy Li, who lives in Chengdu, is planning a nine-day trip to Malaysia next month with her husband and two children. Pricing was the single biggest factor in choosing Malaysia, where they will visit Kuala Lumpur and beaches in Kota Kinabalu, she said.

“It’s good value for money,” Li said. “I like ocean views and it’s not that far.”

The return of Chinese tourists to the global travel market is being closely watched, as their numbers and spending are crucial for the tourism industry’s recovery. Forecasts on when overseas trips by Chinese will return to pre-pandemic levels vary – some expect it will rebound fully by the end of this year, while others including Fitch Group say mainland tourists are still restraining spending.

Bookings and search data show there’s increased demand for international travel this summer.

Trip.com sees outbound travel from China doubling year-on-year, with family group sales for overseas holidays accounting for half of current bookings.

The World Travel and Tourism Council earlier this month forecasts Chinese holidaymakers will splurge CNY1.8 trillion (RM1.17 trillion) on overseas trips this year, exceeding pre-pandemic levels for the first time.

For now, Chinese tourists haven’t fully returned in the numbers that were seen in 2019. Regional destinations for the June to August summer season are set to recover to about 80% of 2019 levels, according to flight ticketing analysis as of June 7 from ForwardKeys.

The only two countries in Asia that are expected to exceed their 2019 levels are Singapore, with a 15% spike, and Malaysia, which is seeing a 32% boost, according to ForwardKeys.

Asian nations that have implemented visa-free policies have seen faster bookings growth, with Thailand and Singapore becoming popular weekend getaways, said Tongcheng Travel, an online agency popular among Chinese users.

Easier entry

Taking advantage of relaxed visa requirements, Bella Huang, a 27-year-old teacher from Jiangsu, is headed to Thailand in August with two girlfriends. A big fan of Thai television, this will be her first and only overseas trip this year. Her budget for the trip is about CNY8,000 (RM5,193). She didn’t even entertain heading to Europe this year, as she said getting a visa might have been difficult.

Still, some European destinations are also expected to show growth, with Belgium, Spain, Britain and Italy topping the list of favoured countries, according to data from Cirium and Trip.com.

Tourists making the longer flight to Europe are also willing more to fly in comfort.

More travellers headed to Rome (Italy), London, Milan (Italy), Madrid (Spain), Brussels (Belgium) and Barcelona (Spain) are splashing out on premium seats than they did in 2019 – even as most European destinations in economy class haven’t returned to pre-pandemic levels.

“We have observed a promising upswing in premium and business travel,” said Nan Dai, ForwardKeys’ China market analyst.

Friendly destinations

Other destinations that are expected to outpace 2019 levels show hints of geopolitical influence. Turkiye, Hungary, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Saudi Arabia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan top the list of countries expected to see an increase in travel from China, according to Cirium. All are part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Visitors to Hungary are expected to jump as flight capacity increases sixfold – the biggest growth of all countries – albeit off a low base.

“A lot of these countries are feeling a lot of love for China,” said Mark Tanner, managing director of Shanghai-based marketing firm China Skinny.

“They are much more China friendly, which is adding to the appeal.” – Bloomberg

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Tags / Keywords: Travel , Tourism , China Tourists , Top Asian Destinations , Malaysia , Tourism Malaysia , holiday , trends , vacation , cirium , forwardkeys

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Cheap flights from Phoenix: 16 cities where you can fly for $100 or less RT in July

July might be one of the best months to book a trip this summer with the cost of round-trip airfare expected to drop to its lowest average in months.

That means it's likely air travelers can find a good deal. New data from  Hopper, the travel website that tracks airfares , showed 16 domestic routes out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport with round-trip airfares of $100 or less for some July itineraries, the same amount as June .

Domestic round-trip airfares are expected to average $282 in July, up slightly from a year earlier but down 7% from June's average of $303 and pre-pandemic airfares,  according to Hopper . July's forecast is Hopper's least expensive since February , when it forecasted round-trip airfares would cost $276 on average.

Here's where you can find cheap flights from Phoenix in July 2024.

Is July expensive to fly?

Hopper found 16 cities with round-trip airfares at or below $100 from Phoenix, the same number as June.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

July airfares are tracking lower than past months, in part from airlines meeting the greater demand for air travel by adding more seats. They're doing this by flying larger planes rather than increasing the number of flights, Hopper economist Hayley Berg said .

Hopper also expects Fourth of July travel will cost less for travelers. Round-trip airfares for the holiday weekend averaged $263, down 18% from 2023 and 12% from pre-pandemic levels.

Where is the cheapest place to fly now?

Las Vegas continues to have the lowest fares from Phoenix, with Hopper forecasting round-trip fares near $50.

Three destinations follow with $60 round-trip fares: Los Angeles; Ontario, California; and Salt Lake City.

The Arizona Republic found $41 round-trip base fares with Spirit Airlines for Phoenix-Las Vegas itineraries from July 10-13 and July 15-18. Frontier Airlines flights at or just below $50 are available for Vegas flights on several July dates.

We found airfares as low as $58 with Frontier Airlines to Los Angeles from July 9-16, and Salt Lake City and Ontario from July 16-23.

One city is new to the cheap flights list: Missoula, Montana, where Frontier began flying from Phoenix in May . We found prices as low as $88 with Frontier for a July 4-11 trip.

Be aware that Frontier and Spirit, ultra-low-cost carriers, charge low base fares with additional fees for seat assignments, carry-on and checked bags and other amenities.

Cheap places to fly from Phoenix in July 2024

Hopper said these destinations will be the cheapest to fly to from Phoenix in July 2024:

• Las Vegas: $50.
• San Diego: $60.
• Salt Lake City: $60.
• Ontario, California: $60.
• Los Angeles: $65.
• Orange County, California: $68.
• Denver: $69.
• Houston: $73.
• San Francisco: $80.
• Dallas: $82.
• Seattle: $88.
• Portland, Oregon: $90.
• Burbank, California: $90.
• Missoula, Montana: $90.
• Cincinnati: $96.
• Minneapolis: $100.

If you're headed to Las Vegas, the cheapest place to fly to from Phoenix in July, be sure to read our guides on where to find free parking , free things to do and what to expect at the Las Vegas Sphere .

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

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