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Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

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Are you planning a day trip to Malaysia from Singapore?

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

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

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

Brief Overview Of This Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

Background Information on Malaysia and Singapore

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

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

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

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

Planning Your Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

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

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

Understanding the Distance and Travel Time

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

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

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

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

Legal and Visa Considerations

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Malaysia from Singapore

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

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

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

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

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

How to Travel from Singapore to Malaysia

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

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

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

Different Bus Services

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

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

🚍 Book Singapore-Malaysia Bus Tickets Online 🚍

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

Costs and Travel Time

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

Tips and Tricks

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

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

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

Train Services Available

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

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

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

Car Rental Services

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

🚘 Rent A Car Online 🚘

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

Travel Time and Routes

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

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

Tips for Driving in Malaysia

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

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

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

Ferry Services Available

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tour Services Available

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

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

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

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

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

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

Must-See Destinations in Malaysia for a Day Trip

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

Here are some attractions you shouldn’t miss:

1. Petronas Towers

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

2. KLCC Park

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

3. Batu Caves

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

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

Johor Bahru

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

1. Johor Zoo

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

2. Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

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

3. Legoland Malaysia

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

🤩 Get A LEGOLAND Malaysia Ticket 🤩

4. Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

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

🤩 Book Tickets To Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast 🤩

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

1. A’Famosa Fortress

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

2. Jonker Street Night Market

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

3. The Stadthuys

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

🤩 Kuala Lumpur & Malacca Luxury Day Tour from Singapore 🤩

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

Planning Your Itinerary According to Your Interests

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

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

1. History and Culture Enthusiasts

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

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

2. Architecture and Urban Explorers

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

3. Nature and Outdoor Lovers

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

🤩 Join A Taman Negara National Park Day Tour 🤩

4. Families with Kids

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

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

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

🤩 Join The 10 Tastings of Kuala Lumpur With Locals 🤩

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

Malaysian Food and Culture

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

Famous Malaysian Dishes to Try

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

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

Understanding the Malaysian Culture

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

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

Shopping and Souvenirs

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

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

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

Practical Information and Travel Tips

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

Currency Exchange

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

Cultural Etiquettes and Safety Tips

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

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

Mobile and Internet Connectivity

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

Health and Vaccination Requirements

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

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

Travel Insurance

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

Returning to Singapore

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

Travelling Back to Singapore: What to Know

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

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

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

Customs Regulations and Duty-free Shopping

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

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

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

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

Recap On Day Trip To Malaysia From Singapore

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

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

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

Final Thoughts and Suggestions

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

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

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

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• Destinations

Awesome Day Trips From Singapore to Malaysia

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Best day trips from Singapore to Malaysia?

You are in Singapore. And you have a free day. You want to go on a day trip to Malaysia. It’s right next door after all. What are your best options? Frankly, you have plenty of options. With frequent and cheap direct flights, you can easily go even on a day trip to Langkawi, and relax on the beach or go hiking in the jungle .

Here are a few of the best day getaway ideas (from Singapore).

See more: Best Hotels in Singapore for Amazing Views Fun Things to Do in Singapore

Table of Contents

Singapore is a tiny and well-connected country.

The latter, actually, is one of the best things about Singapore. You can get to almost anywhere from Singapore easily. It’s also one of the reasons we’ve been to Singapore so much. It has always been there. Always so close. Same like Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia).

1. Langkawi Island

Langkawi is a popular island destination in Malaysia.

Overall, one of the very best day trips from Singapore to Malaysia.

It’s the best island in Malaysia for those who want convenience. Getting to Langkawi is super easy. There are 10+ direct daily flights to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur. And there are also direct flights from Singapore to Langkawi.

20-minute cheap taxi drive from the airport and you are on Pantai Cenang, most popular beach in Langkawi. Do you want to see Langkawi from above? Visit the Langkawi Skybridge Cable Car or drive up the Gunung Raya . Langkawi is also one of my personal favorite islands in the world. I have spent several months in Langkawi. My tip for adventurous souls? Check out the Gunung Mat Cincang Hike .

GETTING THERE: 1h 40 min direct flight

HIGHLIGHTS: Swimming, beach, hiking, duty free shopping

More: Best Day Trips From Langkawi, Malaysia

2. Johor Bahru (JB)

Johor Bahru is right on the border of Malaysia and Singapore.

It’s a medium-size city in Malaysia. It’s proximity is one of the reasons to visit Johor Bahru. The city is just across the bridge from Singapore. Cross the bridge, get your passport stamped and get a glimpse of another country. Citizens of many countries don’t need a visa to travel to Malaysia.

In Johor Bahru go for a walk along the Jalan Tan Hoik Nee, try some real Malaysian Nasi Lemak or Nasi Goreng (two popular rice dishes) and, if you are into shopping, visit Johor Premium Outlets. In JB a lot of things cost significantly cheaper than in Singapore. In fact, more or less everything is cheaper in Malaysia. That’s why there are so many people who live in JB and work in Singapore.

GETTING THERE: bus or metro (to Kranji) and then bus

HIGHLIGHTS: Sightseeing, shopping

3. Iskandar Puteri

Iskandar Puteri is the administrative capital of the state of Johor.

The city is located right next to Johor Bahru, and is just as close to Singapore as JB. One of the main reasons people visit Iskandar Puteri is for its theme parks. The most popular ones are Legoland ( book ticket online ) and Sunway City. A visit to any or both of them is among the top things to do in Iskandar Puteri. There isn’t anything else you can do there really.

HIGHLIGHTS: Legoland, Sunway City Iskandar Puteri

4. Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia.

It’s also the most modern and the biggest city in Malaysia. I love Malaysia. I love Kuala Lumpur. And I know I will return to KL again and again. If not for anything else then for food. Of course, you can get most of it also in Singapore. The two countries share the same cousines, but it’s cheaper in KL. And also the choice is bigger in Kuala Lumpur. What to do in KL in one day?

Here’s my one day in Kuala Lumpur itinerary.

Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in One Day:

• Breakfast in one of the Suria KLCC food courts
• Stroll around the area of the Petronas Towers
• Take Grab taxi to go to the KL Bird Park (2-3 hours there)
• Grab ride either to Chinatown or Batu Caves
• Lunch either in Chinatown or at Batu Caves. If you go to Batu Caves, go to one of the Indian restaurants in the area, and try some dosa – for example, Masala Dosa. In Chinatown, I can recommend this small noodle restaurant . When I was living in Chinatown, I went there every day.
• Visit Batu Caves or wander around Chinatown
• Visit Bukit Bintang (if you are at Batu Caves take the train instead of Grab and you’ll get a chance to see KL Railway station, from there you can take another train to Bukit Bintang)
• Dinner at Bukit Bintang
• Fountain show at Lake Symphony, in KLCC Park just behind the Petronas Towers (there is a special pedestrian tunnel all they way from Pavilion Mall in Bukit Bintang to the Petronas Towers

If you love big cities, it’s one of the very best day trips from Singapore to Malaysia you can have. The nearby (relatively) Jakarta isn’t that interesting for tourists in my opinion — there aren’t that many things to do and see, and it’s harder to get around because of heavy traffic.

GETTING THERE: 1h direct flight

HIGHLIGHTS: Sightseeing, restaurants, shopping

Malacca is a small port city known for its colonial past.

For centuries, Malacca was one of the most important ports in Malaysia. Even though little has been left of its former glory, it’s still an interesting destination for a day trip. Many people go on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca (book transfer from KL to Malacca ), but it’s also possible to go from Singapore to Malacca. The best thing to do in Malacca? Walk around the old part of the city.

Here are some more interesting things you can do in Malacca .

GETTING THERE: 3-5 hour bus ride or private transfer

HIGHLIGHTS: Sightseeing, colonial architecture

Singapore Travel Tips

For more Singapore travel tips, check out our other articles.

More Singapore tips:

• How to Do Singapore on a Budget of 50 SGD/Day? (It’s Cheap)
• Where to Rent a Bicycle in Singapore?
• How to Get to Sentosa Island on Foot?
• More Singapore articles

Have you been to Singapore? Did you try and go on any day trips from Singapore to Malaysia? Where did you go? What was your experience?

Book Your Trip Like a PRO

1. Book Your Flight. Find cheap flights using Kiwi.com , Momondo.com . Or subscribe to Dollar Flight Club , if you don’t want to be searching for the flights yourself. Kiwi currently is my first choice.

2. Book Your Accommodation. Booking.com , Agoda.com and Airbnb . I use Booking and Agoda at least a dozen times a year, and Airbnb – when looking for a long-term stay. My best tip is to ALWAYS compare the price. Sometimes the same hotel is cheaper on Booking.com, other times – on Agoda. Always compare the price!

3. Buy Your Travel Insurance . Ekta and SafetyWings are two companies I can recommend. Ekta offers some extra benefits, that will be important for those doing some higher risk activities (make sure to choose the right plan!), while SafetyWings is better for digital nomads. SafetyWings is also very affordable .

Singapore Malaysia Itinerary: 4-12 days Guide

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

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

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

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

Top Experiences and Tours in Singapore & Malaysia

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Day by day Singapore and Malaysia trip itinerary 

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

Day 1 – Singapore 

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

Jewel Changi Airport 

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

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

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS TO THE ATTRACTIONS AT JEWEL CHANGI

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

How to get from Changi Airport to the city center? 

Private transfer.

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

CHECK PRICE FOR A PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFER

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

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

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

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

Airport shuttle/bus 

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

Kampong Glam and Haji Lane 

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

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

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

Shopping at Bugis   

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

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

Little India  

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

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

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

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

Related post: 29 most beautiful Instagrammable locations in Singapore

Where to stay in Singapore?

The southbridge hotel  .

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

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

CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

Atlantis Pod @ Chinatown  

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

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

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN SINGAPORE

Day 2 – Singapore 

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

Merlion, Esplanade Walk and Helix Bridge  

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

Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands

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

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

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO SKYPARK

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

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

Gardens by the Bay   

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

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

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

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR CLOUD FOREST AND FLOWER DOME

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

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

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

Spectra Light and Garden Rhapsody Show  

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

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

Showtimes:  

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

Related post:  What to do in Marina Bay Singapore

Day 3 – Singapore 

Sentosa island  .

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

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

There are three ways to get to Sentosa Island: 

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

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

Chinatown  

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

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

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

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

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

Other things to do in Singapore:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related post: How to spend 4 days in Singapore ?  

Day 4 – Melaka 

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

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

How to get from Singapore to Melaka? 

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

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM SINGAPORE TO MELAKA HERE

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

Dutch Square 

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

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

Christ Church 

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

Stadthuys 

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

St Paul’s Hill  

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

A’Famosa Fort 

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

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

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

Menara Taming Sari 

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

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS TO MENARA TAMING SARI

Melaka Straits Mosque 

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

Other things to do in Melaka: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Melaka? 

Hotel arissa .

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

CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN MELAKA

Day 5 – Kuala Lumpur 

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

How to get from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur? 

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

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM MELAKA TO KL HERE

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

Petronas Twin Towers 

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

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

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR PETRONAS TOWERS 

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

KLCC Park 

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

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

Aquaria KLCC  

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

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR AQUARIA KLCC 

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

Shopping in Bukit Bintang 

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

Related post: Best thing to do in Bukit bintang

Jalan Alor Night Market  

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

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? 

Gold 3 boutique hotel .

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

Ansa Hotel Kuala Lumpur 

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

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

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

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KUALA LUMPUR

Day 6 – Kuala Lumpur 

Kl forest eco park  .

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

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

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

KL Tower (Menara Tower)  

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

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

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR KL TOWER  

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

 Chinatown 

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

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

Related post: Top things to do in Chinatown KL

Little India (Brickfields)  

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

Thean Hou Temple 

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

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

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

Entrance fee : Free  

Other things to do in Kuala Lumpur: 

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

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

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

Related post: 2 days in Kuala Lumpur: Ultimate guide  

Day 7 – Ipoh 

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

How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh? 

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

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

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM KL TO IPOH HERE

Go on a Street Art Hunt  

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

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

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

Concubine Lane and Kong Heng Square 

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

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

Where to stay in Ipoh?  

Grayhaus soho ipoh  .

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

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN IPOH

Day 8 – Ipoh 

Taste the famous ipoh white coffee .

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

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

Explore the Cave Temples  

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

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

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

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

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

Day 9 – Penang 

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

How to get from Ipoh to Penang? 

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

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

CHECK PRICE FOR A BUS FROM IPOH TO PENANG HERE

Kek Lok Si Temple 

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

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

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

Penang Hill and the Habitat

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

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR PENANG HILL

Chulia Street Night Market 

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

Where to stay in Penang? 

Blue mansion (cheong fatt tze) .

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

East Indies Mansion

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

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

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

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN PENANG

Day 10 – Penang 

Go on another street art hunt.

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

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

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

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion) 

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

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

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

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A GUIDED TOUR OF THE BLUE MANSION

Pinang Peranakan Mansion 

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

Chew Jetty 

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

Other things to do in Penang:

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

Related post: Best Penang itinerary for first-time visitors

Day 11 – Langkawi 

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

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

How to get from Penang to Langkawi? 

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

CHECK PRICE FOR A FLIGHT FROM PENANG TO LANGKAWI HERE

Chill on the beach 

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

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

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

Visit a night market 

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

They are held every single night in different locations.

Related post: Langkawi 3 days 2 nights itinerary

Where to stay in Langkawi? 

Chenang inn .

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

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN LANGKAWI

Day 12- Langkawi 

Langkawi skycab and skybridge.

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

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

CHECK PRICE FOR TICKETS FOR LANGKAWI SKYCAB AND SKYBRIDGE

Seven Wells Waterfall  

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

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

Related post: Complete guide to Seven Wells Waterfall

Other things to do in Langkawi: 

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

Related post: Ultimate 2-week Malaysia itinerary

Budget for your Singapore Malaysia Itinerary 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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THE BEST Day Trips from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur

Day trips from singapore to kuala lumpur.

• Singapore to Melaka
• Singapore to Kuala Lumpur
• Singapore to Batam
• Singapore to Johor Bahru
• Singapore to Sentosa Island
• Singapore to Pontian District
• Singapore to Chinatown
• Singapore to Endau
• Singapore to Kota Tinggi
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. *17or19Hrs Kuala Lumpur Exclusive Escorted Car Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide

2. *17or19Hrs Kuala Lumpur Flexible Day&Night Car Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide

3. 2-WAY FLIGHT: Private Kuala Lumpur guided day tour from Singapore

4. *17 or 19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide

5. Kuala Lumpur City tour with Petronas Twin Tower From Singapore

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14 Exciting Quick Day Trips To Take From Singapore This Season

Pick yourself up by taking one of the best day trips from Singapore this season to discover something new nearby.

We love Singapore, but sometimes, it is refreshing to get out of the city and explore something new and exciting nearby . From quaint villages in Malaysia to charming districts just a few minutes down the road, there’s a fantastic selection of gems to discover on a boring weekend this season. Here are 14 of the best day trips from Singapore .

This coastal town in Malaysia is a UNESCO world heritage site known for its unique history and culture. Set on the Melaka River, discover the striking Melaka Straits Mosque, a 17th century Dutch town hall, the Famosa historic castle and safari and let’s not forget about Jonker Street Night Market serving scrumptious cuisine. Indeed, one of the best day trips but you’ll need to get up early to trek the three hour drive.

2. Pontian District

Whether you’re driving or hopping on the bus, this charming destination just one hour and 20 minutes from Singapore is the ultimate day trip. Situated southwest of Johor, the quaint fishing town boasts delicious seafood markets, quirky cafes and Buddhist temples to explore, and a muddy mangrove coastline offering beautiful bridge walks and wooden paths into the forest. Additionally, be sure to watch the sunset at Coxn Cafe , which is a stunning seaside eatery with a romantic feel , and visit Nictar Pineapple Park , to learn about the production of this fruit.

3. Johor Bahru

Another idyllic place to visit in Malaysia only 44 minutes drive from Singapore and just 18 minutes from Iskandar Puteri (also mentioned in this article). So you could squeeze both into your agenda. Wander the old town on Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street, enjoy skyscraper views and visit the instagrammable new Forest City , indulge on the thriving local food scene by café-hopping around the lush eateries, and much more.

SEE MORE: 10 Best Things To Do In Johor Bahru

SEE MORE: 10 Best Cafes To Hop Around In Johor Bahru

4. Kusu Island

Another excellent day trip is the beautiful and tranquil Kusu Island – which is just one hour by ferry from Singapore’s Marina South Pier. Dubbed Tortoise Island in Chinese , it is steeped in local myth and folklore, and offers the perfect place to relax on the beach , admire turtles, climb 152 steps to the Kusu Kramats Shrine, explore nature and visit an exotic temple .

5. The Putra Mosque

Why not drive to an instagrammable pink mosque in Malaysia? The Putra Mosque is a feast for the eyes in Putrajaya just three hours and 40 minutes drive from Singapore. The hidden gem is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Kuala Lumpur. Get our guide on The Putra Mosque .

📍 Persiaran Persekutuan, Presint 1, 62502 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya, Malaysia

6. Iskandar Puteri

This vibrant and sustainable Malaysian city is under one hour drive from Singapore. Why not visit one of the greatest attractions Legoland and the waterpark? After you can shop till you drop at a range of shopping destinations, dine at delicious restaurants and more before heading back home. Certainly, one of the most ideal day trips to Malaysia.

7. Bintan & Batam Islands

Whether you want a full day trip or a quick weekend away, both Bintan and Batam are the perfect agenda. From epic Indonesian temples to feeding exotic elephants, relaxing on gorgeous beaches , and more…there’s plenty to do. See our list of the best things to do in the Bintan and Batam Islands this season.

8. Cameron Highlands

If you want to be extra adventurous, why not hop on a one hour flight to the Cameron Highlands? There are multiple airlines offering routes for less than $65 each way. So, you could be back in your bed in Singapore before midnight. This popular tourist region offers a number of unique attractions and natural beauty. Particularly, its famous for its tea plantations where visitors can learn how some of the best tea globally is produced, against the backdrop of a beautiful highland. Otherwise, you can hike through forests and organic farms, visit museums like Time Tunnel Museum, ride ATVs, pet fluffy sheep, to name a few activities. Definitely, one of the best day trips but needs to be planned in advance.

SEE MORE: The Best Places To Escape To Globally From Singapore

9. Desaru Coast

Wonderfully, you can take the new ferry route in under 90 minutes to this dreamy location. Explore fishing villages and tuck into authentic seafood, have a splash at Desaru Coast Waterpark and feed the hilarious ostriches at the Ostrich Farm, to name a few things. A return ticket will set you back $118. See all the wonderful things to do in Desaru Coast .

10. Sentosa

Closer to home, Sentosa Island is just a few minutes away and offers a selection of thrilling activities to make the best day trip for people of all ages to enjoy. From new attractions like Asia’s first gamified electric go-karts , to golden beaches , top sights such as Universal Studios, Wings Of Time , and more…there’s something for everyone. Read about the best things to do for a day in Sentosa here .

11. Port Dickson

If you’re feeling extra adventurous why not drive to Pork Dickson in just three hours and 45 minutes? In fact, it’s a blissful holiday destination that resembles The Maldives if you wanted to spend the weekend there. The drive is easy via the North South Highway. There, you’ll discover a tropical seaside town with 18km of golden beaches and a number of attractions. Learn more . Definitely, one of the best day trips near Singapore.

12. Adventure Cove Waterpark

Located in Sentosa, you could easily spend the full day making a splash at this delightful waterpark. Adventure Cove boasts both adult and child-friendly rides, from high-speed water slides to wave pools, and exotic marina encounters…it’s a superb place to pass the day with people of all ages. Certainly, one of the best day trips from the centre. Otherwise, check out another water park in the city .

13. Rifle Range Nature Park

Just 20 minutes from the city, a new green park is located along Rifle Range Road to the south of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. The 66 hectares park is the first positive energy park in Singapore, with energy harvested from solar panels around the park. With two boardwalks, a range of hiking trails , viewing platforms and a quarry wetland…you could easily spend half a day getting lost amongst nature.

14. The Islands

Why not use a sunny day to visit one of the islands closest to Singapore beside Kusu Island already mentioned above? Luckily, we’ve already listed the best island adventures to take from Singapore . The choice is yours! Definitely, some of the best day trips from the city.

SEE MORE: The Best Things To Do In Singapore

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Home » Travel Guides » Singapore » 15 Best Day Trips from Singapore

15 Best Day Trips from Singapore

Though it is widely considered to be a playground for the wealthy with its high-end shopping malls, astoundingly luxurious hotels and Michelin star restaurants, Singapore also has a wealth of historical and cultural significance, with vibrant ethnic districts and gorgeous green spaces.

While you should by all means indulge in the high-end temptations of the city-state, as well as the cultural ones, Singapore happens to be incredibly well situated when it comes to visiting other places for the day.

You can reach the neighbouring countries of Malaysia and Indonesia in a matter of hours and all the glorious paradise beaches and islands that they offer.

Singapore itself also contains various outlying islands which offer everything from cosmopolitan to traditional, with a variety of gorgeous beaches and traditional villages in between.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Singapore :

1. Sentosa Island

An island which is an undeniable tourist hub owing to the tremendous amount of activities on offer there, Sentosa Island is arguably Singapore’s most popular day trip and it’s easy to see why.

Coined as the “fun state”, Sentosa literally does have something for everyone; from shopping malls and casinos to nature walks and even the famous Resorts World Sentosa.

Here you’ll find a Universal Studios Theme Park; perfect for families and casual visitors alike.

You can reach Sentosa Island by cable car, giving you sweeping views and an adrenaline rush before the real fun has even begun.

2. Pulau Ubin

The island of Pulau Ubin is a wildly contrasting alternative to the heaving, commercial bustle that is Sentosa.

As Singapore’s second most-known island, it still sees its fair share of visitors, but feels nowhere near as crowded.

Pulau Ubin is a mixture of beautiful coastline, serene bike paths and the breath taking Chek Jawa Wetlands; all of which can be seen in the space of a day and offer a much-needed escape from Singapore’s urban sprawl.

Here, you’ll also find the last surviving traditional villages of Singapore; a cultural gem which is a pleasure to walk around while learning about the island’s history.

Wide, sweeping white-sand beaches and lush jungles are the main port of call on the island of Bintan in Indonesia, only a short ferry ride away from Singapore’s metropolitan areas.

The island caters for adventure travellers looking for sun and surf, whilst also offering a tempting array of world-class, high-end resorts for bigger spenders.

In Pantai Trikora, you’ll find a laidback beach vibe with excellent food, where many travellers make their way to experience the authentic atmosphere.

Towards the north coast of the island, where the beaches become ever more pristine, you’ll find the resorts and hotels offering untold luxury and various beach bars where you can go to enjoy a drink for a few hours.

A mixture of cultural and entertainment attractions can be found on Batam Island: also in Indonesia and a mere hour away from Singapore by ferry.

Popular amongst expats and Singaporeans alike, there are notably cheaper shopping and casino experiences to be found here, as well as a thriving nightlife scene, meaning you can expect a buzzing hub of travellers and locals enjoying themselves.

The predominantly seafood cuisine is particularly delicious on Batam.

There is a wide variety of water sports to be enjoyed, all of which can be found at Waterfront City.

For a slice of culture, head over to the Mesjid Raya Grand Mosque or the famed Buddhist temple: Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya.

5. Johor Bahru

Situated on the Southern Malay Peninsula, Johor Bahru, also referred to as JB, is Malaysia’s third largest city and well known as a great shopping destination, with most consumer goods being considerably less expensive than Singapore.

Only an hour away on the bus, here you can also find an enchanting mixture of cultural sites, ranging from mosques to Chinese temples.

Particularly popular is the Hindu Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple due to its unique design.

Before Singapore took the title, Malacca used to be the most important trading port in Southeast Asia, making it a truly fascinating place to visit.

The preservation of colonial architecture is one of the main attractions for tourists, and popular sites include the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum, as well as the 18th Century Dutch House at Heeren Street.

Food is also a red-hot attraction here, with Malay and Perankan dishes featuring heavy Portuguese influence found around every corner.

This, combined with the colonial beauty of the area, gained Malacca UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008.

7. Iskandar Puteri

The thriving city of Iskandar Puteri is a fantastic place for a family day trip, owing to the wildly popular Legloland Malaysia and Hello Kitty Indoor Theme Park, both instant hits with local children and playful adults.

Puteri Harbour is also renowned for its world-class restaurants serving everything from Indian to Western food.

If you’re up for a spot of retail therapy, you’ll find some unbeatable shopping at the premium luxury brand outlet: Johor Premium Outlets.

Glittering, sapphire-blue waters and pristine white sand beaches are commonplace on the island of Desaru, making it one of the most popular getaway spots for Singaporeans looking for a paradise getaway.

The fact that it’s only a 30-minute ferry ride away from Changi Ferry Terminal makes it all the more appealing, especially for a quick day trip.

If you want to experience something other than just a day relaxing on the beach, then head over to Desaru Ostrich Farm, where you can get up close and personal with these enormous birds and even try ostrich egg products.

9. Kusu Island

Only a brief ferry ride away from Singapore is the island of Kusu; which also means “Tortoise Island” in Chinese.

The island is an intriguing combination of religious significance and almost untouched pristine tropical land.

Kusu is full of blue lagoons, gorgeous beaches and an abundance of wildlife, but it is also the site of an annual pilgrimage for many people who flock to places like the Da Bo Gong Temple in search of prosperity.

There are three Malay saints housed in holy shrines perched at the top of a 152-step climb.

Both sites are fascinating to visit and, combined with the island’s natural beauty, make Kusu an unmissable day trip.

10. St John’s Island

An island spanning 40 hectares that has been thoughtfully developed into a haven for outdoor activities, St Johns Island is an endearing tranquil getaway for those who want to have island time but not be completely without amenities.

Here you can swim in lagoons, settle down for a picnic, hike some moderate trekking routes, or kick a ball around on one of the soccer fields.

For those that may want to spend the night there, you’ll have no trouble finding various bungalow and chalet complexes available for rent.

11. Lazarus Island

Easily reachable via a short walkway from St John’s is the enviably beautiful Lazarus Island; even more gorgeous than its neighbour and much more untouched, providing a real island getaway for the nearby Singaporeans.

Here there are barely any amenities, so get ready to completely unwind, unplug, and find a spot of unspoiled white sand to have a picnic, or a patch of jungle to stretch the legs.

You can arrive from Marina South Pier; be sure to pack supplies for the day.

12. Sisters Island

Only a short ferry ride from Singapore are the legendary Sisters Islands, made up of two spits of land separated by a narrow channel.

Wildly popular amongst snorkelers for the abundance of marine life found amongst the reefs below the surface, the islands attract many marine enthusiasts, whether professional or just giving it a go.

The beaches peppered with palm trees and beach huts are also a hit with picnic-goers who will often come here for the day in search of a quiet place to relax.

13. Coney Island

Coney Island has long been focussed on sustainability and environmental initiatives, which led to it even closing its gates to the public at one time.

Now that it has reopened, visitors can come and explore how the natural elements of the park are maintained, and learn about water and energy conservation.

Coney Island Park and the island itself are reachable from Singapore by taxi.

14. Pulau Hantu

Another island that is incredibly popular with snorkelers is Pulau Hantu, whose diverse ecosystem of fish includes clownfish, seahorses and damsel fish; all thriving under the surface of the crystal-clear waters.

The island is also inviting to children as it’s full of safe, shallow lagoons and sheltered beaches, making it an ideal place for them to play.

Arriving is slightly more complex than with other islands however, as you’ll have to charter your own boat from the West Coast Pier of Singapore.

15. Pulau Semakau

Though it may seem unappealing to the average traveller, Pulau Semakau was actually built on top of a landfill.

However, it has been designed so conscientiously that it is completely unpolluted, odour free, and completely clean.

The huge scale recycling feat has actually gained the island legendary status among eco activists and Pulau Semaku is now a thriving eco getaway.

Flourishing mangrove habitats attract visitors from far and wide and the snorkelling scene is also flourishing.

Here, the coral reefs are vibrant and full of life, and there is even a coral nursery.

15 Best Day Trips from Singapore:

• Sentosa Island
• Johor Bahru
• Iskandar Puteri
• Kusu Island
• St John’s Island
• Lazarus Island
• Sisters Island
• Coney Island
• Pulau Hantu
• Pulau Semakau

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Tailor-Made Singapore & Malaysia Tour, Daily Departure & Private Guide

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Personalized
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Arrival in Singapore, Airport pick-up
• Day 2 Singapore city tour
• Day 3 Singapore to Malacca transfer
• Day 4 Malacca city tour, Private transfer to Kuala Lumpur
• Day 5 Kuala Lumpur tour with Batu Caves
• Day 6 Departure from Kuala Lumpur

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

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Agate Travel is a leading travel operator set up in 1997, aims to provide global travel resolutions with top-notch service and maximize the delight of adventures. From the ice-covered volcanoes in Iceland to the luxuriant savanna in scorching Africa, our best-designed customized tours cover more than 100 countries on 6 continents. Whether you are looking for a group tour to the highlighted attractions, a private exploration to off-the-beaten-track, a cultural discovery to the heritage sites organized hiking through the mountains, a relaxing holiday on the clear beaches, or a dive into the picturesque natural wonders, we have got super selections of trips to choose from. Explore the wonders of the world with Agate Travel and enjoy the best service at favorable prices.

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• Tour Operator Agate Travel 4.9

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
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• Friday 26 Apr, 2024 Wednesday 1 May, 2024 English Sharing a twin room €2,944 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 27 Apr, 2024 Thursday 2 May, 2024 English Sharing a twin room €2,944 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 28 Apr, 2024 Friday 3 May, 2024 English Sharing a twin room €2,944 Confirm Dates
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• Currencies RM Malaysian Ringgit Malaysia $ Singapore Dollar Singapore

As a traveller from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type G.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 12 Malaysia Road Trip Adventures From Singapore, KL And Borneo

Heading to Malaysia or based in Singapore or Malaysia and looking for the ultimate Malaysia road trip?

You are not alone. Malaysia is a great country to explore by car with many fun destinations and experiences waiting for you. In fact, a road trip around Malaysia is our favourite way to explore this country as it’s just so easy and there are so many places worth visiting within a short drive of just about anywhere!

To help make planning your own road trip in Malaysia, I have listed the best 12 road trips Malaysia offers. I have separated them into sections depending on whether you want Malaysia road trip ideas for a great weekend from Kuala Lumpur, a road trip from Singapore to Malaysia, an East Coast Malaysia road trip, a Borneo road trip or the absolute best road trip in Malaysia.

Just keep reading and pick your best choice from the Malaysia road trip planner below.

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

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

Driving In Malaysia

If you are new to road trips in this part of the world and are wondering what it’s like to be on the road Malaysia, read my full guide to driving in Malaysia here .

I spent a year living and driving in Malaysia and found it very straightforward and not scary at all. On our frequent trips back from Australia, we usually hire a car as it’s just such a great way to travel in this country. So don’t be worried!! You will be fine.

Click here for my full guide now.

If you don’t want to drive, we can book long distance taxis for you to make things extra easy.

Click here for prices and more information.

If you are starting in Singapore, we can also book long distance taxis which can take you over the border to anywhere in Malaysia. Find more information here.

Road Trip Malaysia Quick Adventures: From Kuala Lumpur

The following road trip ideas in Malaysia are written for either a weekend trip from Kuala Lumpur or slightly longer. You could also follow the first two suggestions if you are looking for a one day road trip in Malaysia.

If you are looking for something longer, keep reading for the big Malaysia road trip section below.

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

Port Dickson Fun

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Port Dickson – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 1.5 hours each way

Perfect For: Beach lovers looking for a weekend escape

If you need a beach break then the best place for road trip in Malaysia from Kuala Lumpur is Port Dickson.

This coastal area is just an hour and a half from the centre of KL and makes for the perfect escape of city life.

This is the place to lounge on the beach, enjoy a great resort for a great price or maybe even swim in your private pool ( see here for the top private pool villas in Port Dickson ). 

There’s also some great things to do in Port Dickson if you want to fill your days. You can go to the Army Museum, check out ostriches at the Ostrich Farm or play paintball! Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to hike to Cape Rachado and relax at Blue Lagoon .

Read more about Port Dickson in our full travel guide here .

Melaka Adventure

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Melaka – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 1.75 hours each way

Perfect For: Culture lovers looking for a weekend escape or day trip.

Malaysia road trip destinations don’t come much better than the UNESCO-listed city of Melaka.   Less than two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the city is full of historic buildings from the British, Dutch, and Portuguese.  Mixed communities of Malays, Malaysian Chinese, Malaysian Indians, Eurasians and more, give Melaka an astonishing mix of culture, religious buildings, customs, and festivals. 

Discover the eclectic mix of temples and churches, and soak up the present-day atmosphere at the main squares of 1Malaysia and Alor Gajash.  Dive into more than 30 museums where you can view restored 19 th -century houses, learn about the city’s colourful history and take an in-depth look at Malaysia’s maritime adventures.

Families will adore the plethora of interactive wildlife options in the city, such as the Melaka Crocodile Farm , Bird Park , or Zoo .  And, your children will beg for a visit to A’Famosa Resort with its fun Water Theme Park , Safari Wonderland and Old West attractions.

Get discounted tickets for Melaka Crocodile Farm here , Melaka Bird Park here and Melaka Zoo here . You can also get discounted tickets for A’Famosa Resort’s Water Theme Park here , Safari Wonderland here and Old West here.   .

Dine on a fantastic variety of street food at over 50 night markets, and enjoy haggling for bargains and souvenirs at the market stalls. 

For a romantic stay, select The Majestic Malacca , a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.  Relax in sumptuous rooms and suites with four poster beds, and spoil yourself with treatments at their Spa Village. 

Families can choose to stay overnight at A’Famosa Resort Malacca – integrated with the theme park – or The Imperial Heritage Hotel in the city.  Close to many attractions, the Imperial is a favourite for children with a swimming pool and karaoke room, whilst parents will appreciate their two-bedroom suites.

Read more about Melaka in our full travel guide here .

Cameron Highlands Escape

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 3 hours each way

Perfect For: Nature lovers wanting a weekend or long weekend trip to cool down

One of the best places for road trips in Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands is another top favourite of ours.  You’ll reach this scenic hill station in a three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, where the cool climate and spectacular green views provide a welcome change from city life.

Set along a mountain plateau, high above the river valley, a trip here is a delight for all the family.  Enjoy the lush green terraces of the Boh Tea Plantation, taste sweet strawberries at Raaju’s Hill Farm and smell the exotic roses at Mrs Robertson’s Gardens.  With traditional English Cream Teas at mock-Tudor mansions you’re excused for wondering if you’ve woken up  in England!

Trek rainforest trails in search of local wildlife and revel in the spectacular jungle vegetation, followed by a cool off at a freshwater waterfall.  Along the route, look out for the Orang Asli tribe who reside in traditional villages dotted throughout the area.

Couples should splurge on a stay at the Cameron Highlands Resort – a majestic colonial hotel with stunning views across Pahang’s rolling hills.  Families can consider the mid-range Copthorne Hotel Cameron Highlands also with scenic views, an indoor heated pool, and a great location close to many attractions.

Read more about Cameron Highlands in our full travel guide here .

Perak Adventure

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Ipoh – Kuala Kangsar – Taiping – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 6.5 hours total

Perfect For: People wanting great food and culture in some of the best places in Perak and who have 4-7 nights to spare.

Perak, known as the Land of Grace, is the wonderful west coast state of the Malay Peninsula.  Follow our itinerary for an extreme road trip, Malaysia style! 

Depart Kuala Lumpur travelling three hours to Ipoh, the state’s capital, and check-in for a couple of nights.  Once a small village, Ipoh is now one of Malaysia’s largest cities but has retained its gorgeous British colonial architecture.  Best discovered on Old Town’s Heritage Walk, marvel at the pretty buildings, relax at ancient shophouses operating as cafes, and admire the city’s more recent addition of colorful street murals.

In modern times Ipoh was known for its tin-mining industry – the focus of the wonderful Han Chin Pet Soo Museum.  However, the region is most noted for its centuries-old Buddhist cave temples (check out one with Neolithic images dating back 5000 years and others with stunningly large Buddhas), and dramatic limestone cliffs best discovered at Gunung Lang Recreational Park.

The Lost World of Tambun theme park will keep children busy, with its Tiger Valley, Water Park and Lost World, and families should stay at the onsite hotel to fully appreciate the park’s many rides and attractions.

Get discounted tickets for the Lost world of Tambun here .

Ipoh is perhaps most famous for its food culture, with hundreds of restaurants and hawker food markets mixing Malay, Chinese – Cantonese and Hakka – and Indian flavours.  Hawker stalls, dim-sum restaurants, speciality noodle shops will all tempt you with wafting aromas, and dine on iconic dishes such as nga choi kai, hakka mee, chicken ho fun and wanton mee… washed down with a mug of Ipoh White Coffee.

For those looking for a little pampering we suggest taking a suite (with balcony and lake views!) at The Haven Resort Hotel , Ipoh.  For families or those on a slightly less budget, M Roof Hotel & Residences is ideal.  Set a little outside of the main hustle and bustle of the city centre, the hotel has a variety of apartments and basic hotel rooms, and features a nice rooftop swimming pool. 

Next stop is Taiping but en route take a side trip to Kuala Kangsar, the royal town of Perak.  This off-tourist-route town is home to some of the most impressive buildings we’ve seen in Malaysia, including the Ubudiah Mosque, the Royal Museum of Perak, the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery and Istana Iskandariah, The Royal Palace.  And check out the markets for souvenirs in the form of locally made pottery items.

Reaching Taiping, check-in at your accommodation for another couple of nights, giving yourself time to appreciate this lesser known town.  Similar to Ipoh, Taiping was a centre of the mining industry for decades, with British and Chinese influences still strong today. 

The town’s Heritage Trail, 11.5km, covers over 40 attractions including the British colonial clock tower and the National Heritage All Saints Church.  And pencil in at least a half day for the Perak Museum, with national history galleries and zoological specimens.For children, ensure to include a trip to the Taiping Zoo near to the city’s stunning Lake Gardens.  Home to over 1200 animals, the zoo supports endangered species and is active in conservation and research.

In the evening, return to the zoo for a Night Safari Taiping Experience or travel slightly out of town for a lovely fireflies river cruise at the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve.

If you have time, extend your stay and visit the Orang Utan Island at Bukit Merah.  Easily enjoyed as a daytrip from Taiping, Orang Utan Island is a quiet sanctuary that’s home to endangered Orangutans. Spend a morning learning about efforts being made to protect the natural habitat of these wonderful primates.

Get discounted tickets for the Orang Utan Island Day Tour here .

The Novotel Taiping Perak , in the centre of town and minutes from Lake Gardens, is the ideal option for all travellers.  Equipped with a Kid’s Club and swimming pool, the hotel has a bar and international restaurant.

Read more about Ipoh in our full travel guide here . With extra time, you could also combine this road trip with the one above and add a stop in Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Road Trip From Singapore: Top Options

This section is especially for people who are looking for a road trip to Malaysia from Singapore. They are designed for a weekend or long weekend but you could also extend them to add more time to relax if you have more time for your road trip Malaysia from Singapore or you could combine them with the suggestions above or below.

Port Dickson and Melaka are also popular Singapore to Malaysia road trip destinations and you could follow those itineraries above as well.

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

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

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

Click here for prices and online booking.

Johor Explorer

Overview: Singapore – Johor Bahru – Singapore

Driving Time: 50 minutes each way

Perfect For: City lovers or families wanting to explore Johor Bahru and Legoland Malaysia

Less than an hour’s travel from Singapore, this popular destination makes for an easy Singapore Malaysia road trip.   Home to the amazing Legoland, Johor Bahru offers many attractions suitable for both families and couples.  Visit for a daytrip, for a weekend or make this part of a much longer Malaysia trip.

Start your day discovering Johor Bahru’s Old Town, with its mosques, temples, churches, and historical buildings.  Browse the heritage shops and art galleries, admire colorful murals, and relax at alfresco cafes. 

The Chinese Heritage Museum – Tiong Hua Museum – is a great place to spend an hour – or drop by the equally interesting Royal Abu Bakar Museum, housed in what was once the Grand Palace and home to the Royal Family.

A fun place to visit is the famous Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory.  With a history spanning over 80 years, sample delicious buns, biscuits, and their signature banana cake.   Other family favorites include the small Johor Bahru zoo. 

But, of course, children and all those young-of-heart will be hoping to include a visit to the famous Legoland Malaysia .  Super fun for all ages, there are multiple Lego-themed zones and worlds to explore.  Lego bumper cars, Lego planes, interactive Lego… and even a Lego roller coaster!

Get discounted tickets for Legoland Malaysia here.

Looking for somewhere quieter?  Head to Danga Bay, with its 25kms of scenic waterfront that includes a pleasant park, the Danga World Mini Theme Park, Danga City Mall and some fine dining restaurants. 

In the evening check-out Pasar Karat, a large flea market with antiques and souvenirs, and sweet-smelling food stalls that offer vast Asian menus.

If staying overnight, treat the children to a wonderful Lego-themed stay at the Legoland Resort .  Rooms come in various sizes and themes, and the hotel offers special activities for inhouse guests.  Alternatively, for a city stay we suggest the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru .  Ideally located for most attractions, the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool on the 13 th floor, four restaurants and a spa, all helping to make this an excellent choice for couples or families.

Read more about Johor Bahru in our full travel guide here .

Tioman Getaway

Overview: Singapore – Mersing (ferry to) Tioman (ferry to) Mersing – Singapore

Driving Time: 2.5 hours driving each way plus ferry ride

Perfect For: Beach and nature lovers who want to escape it all

Tioman is a paradise island, fabulous for anyone looking to chill out for a few nights or families happy to immerse in nature, without the trappings of large resorts and cities.  From Singapore, travel just 2 hours to Mersing and catch the ferry – 1.5-2 hours, weather dependent – to Tioman.

Click here to see the latest timetables and prices

Stunning beaches and coves are surrounded by jungle on one side and the beautiful turquoise sea – teeming with live corals and colourful fish – on the other.  Explore by bicycle, ATV or on foot, trekking jungle trails, passing waterfalls and quaint traditional villages.

Renowned for its excellent diving and snorkelling, the island lures divers from all corners of the globe.  Families visit for a back-to-nature experience, spending relaxing days island-hopping and enjoying reef-protected swimming and water sports in the South China Sea.

Turtle encounters, an 18-hole golf course and duty-free shopping are just a few other available attractions… if you can pull yourself away from the beach!

Treat yourself to a stay at the highly rated Berjaya Tioman Resort , beach-facing with an outdoor pool and home to the golf course.  The resort offers spacious chalets with air conditioning and private balconies, and often promote special packages for families and honeymooners.

Read more about Tioman in our full travel guide here .

Desaru Adventure

Overview: Singapore – Desaru Coast – Singapore

Driving Time: 1.75 hours driving each way plus a ferry ride

Perfect For: Beach lovers who want a fun and easy escape

22 kilometres of Desaru Coast awaits you, with stunning beaches, terrific water sports, and a range of top resorts and accommodation options.  Easily reachable from Singapore – by a short ferry ride and 30 minute drive or alternatively by a 2-hour drive via the Causeway – the Desaru Coast is ideal for weekend or longer stays.

Surprisingly, this popular region continues to have an unspoilt, untouched feel, despite the development of a 21-acres integrated resort.   Boasting five spectacular wet and dry zones in the Adventure Waterpark , a world-class golf course and other attractions, there’s something for everyone! 

Don’t forget to explore the local region too, checking out wildlife interaction at the local Ostrich or Crocodile Farms, cultural experiences at the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village, and fresh-water fun at the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls.

Just looking to relax?  Head to any one of the empty stretches of beach that the area is famous for, all with fine golden sand and calm waters ideal for the plethora of water sports on offer. 

Many of Asia’s top hotel brands can be found at Desaru Coast, including One & Only , The Westin , Anantara and – our favourite – the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast .

Read more about Desaru in our full travel guide here .

Singapore To Kuala Lumpur

Overview: Singapore – Legoland Malaysia – Melaka – Port Dickson – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 6.5 hours in total

Perfect For: People who like variety in their road trips! Have fun at Legoland, experience the culture in Melaka, relax the beach in Port Dickson and then dive into Malaysia’s biggest metropolis at Kuala Lumpur

While you could do this as a direct trip between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, why not have more fun and visit some destinations along the way?

If you are looking for a fun and varied Malaysia adventure, this Singapore to Malaysia road trip itinerary, with exciting stop-overs along the route between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, is perfect.

Commencing from Singapore, drive the short drive to Johor Bahru and check-in at your city-based hotel (we recommend the Double-Tree by Hilton ) or the unique Legoland Resort .  

Take a walk through Old Town and enjoy a snack at any one of the local cafes.  And then it’s time for fun and adventure-overload, as you enjoy a day at Legoland Malaysia .  Offering more than 70 rides, shows and Lego-themed attractions, you’re sure to have a blast!

Next morning, it’s a leisurely drive (2h15m) along AH2 to Muar. This is just a quick stop to check out the amazing street art and to have a little wander around this award-winning clean city.

Not much foreign tourists here so you may have it to yourself! Head to Muar Cultural Walk and Maharani Mural Lane.

Read more about Muar here.

After you’ve filled up your phone with photos, it’s time to head on to nearby Melaka just an hour away on route 5.  Stay for two nights at The Imperial Heritage Hotel or check here for other recommendations, and prepare to discover this ancient UNESCO-listed city. 

Travel by trishaw, taxi or on foot, spending your days exploring museums, historic buildings, temples and churches that all reflect the city’s turbulent history of colonial rule under the Portuguese, British and Dutch.  Feel the Chinese culture, from early settlers of the Ming Dynasty, that continues on today in the Baba & Nyonya communities. 

Take a ride on the Taming Sari Revolving Tower for great city views – noting colonial buildings covered in traditional cherry-red facades – and enjoy a river cruise along the Malacca River. 

Get discounted tickets to Taming Sari Revolving Tower here .

Melaka Zoo and the local Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary are great escapes from the bustling streets.  Or immerse yourself fully in the craziness of the city at the Jonker Walk Night Market and at the bars and karaoke clubs of Melaka Raya.  

And, if all that’s not enough to keep you busy, one of the most famous theme parks in Malaysia – A’Famosa Resort – is on the outskirts of town!

Melaka’s mix of nationality and heritage has spawned a completely unique cuisine in the form of delicious Nyonya dishes, best experienced at street hawker stalls.  Boasting rich food traditions and unique mouth watering flavours, ingredients include tamarind, lemongrass, laksa leaves and coconut milk.  Dine on tasty desserts of sweet potato and yams, combined with glutinous rice.

After two days of fun, it’s time to wave goodbye to Melaka.  Take the coastal road (or re-join the AH2 motorway) for the 1h40m drive to the beach resort town of Port Dickson.  With many affordable hotels, often with ocean-views, select from our listing of best hotels in Port Dickson . Get your suntan-lotion and a book ready, as it’s time to relax!

For your first day, discover the famed 18km shoreline with over a dozen beaches and excellent water sports.  For a real get-away-from-it-all-day, head out to Cape Rachado with 75 hectares of forest wildlife reserve, a historic lighthouse and small secluded beach.  Alternatively, relax at the busier beaches of Pantai Cahaya Negeri or Pantai Saujana offering great facilities and food stalls.

The following day, wake refreshed and ready to explore the region’s history at Lukut with its fort ruins, rainforests at Sungai Menyala, or up the adrenaline with ATV, archery and go-karts at Extreme Park Port Dickson.  Phew!

After two days at Port Dickson it’s time to depart to the bright lights of the capital city Kuala Lumpur.  We recommend a minimum three night stay to enjoy the great range of attractions and things to do in Kuala Lumpur.  

Visit Chinatown, head to the top of the world’s tallest twin towers at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers , and discover the rainforest at KL Forest Eco Park.  Massive shopping centres, temples, wildlife experiences, busy street markets, iconic food, art and cultural museums… the list of things to do is truly endless!  Check out our Kuala Lumpur 3 Day Itinerary to help plan out your stay.

A multicultural and dynamic favourite city of ours, accommodation options in Kuala Lumpur run from hostels to world-class luxury hotels.  To help you book your ideal stay we’ve reviewed the best areas and our top selections here: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur . 

Read more about Kuala Lumpur in our full travel guide here . 

The Big Malaysia Road Trip

For the ultimate Malaysian road trip, you can combine both of the following by driving between Penang and Kota Bharu to make a big circuit. This also means you can start and finish your Malaysia East Coast road trip from any of the points on this itinerary.

You could use either of these itineraries for a road trip to Thailand from Malaysia as both get you closer to the Thai border.

Kuala Lumpur To Penang

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands – Ipoh – Penang

Driving Time: 7 hours in total

Perfect For: People who love exploring different areas and love great food! You need at least 4 nights for this road trip.

Time to hit the road for a West-Malaysia tour!  Commencing from Kuala Lumpur, set off on the 3-hour drive along Route 59 to the cooler climate of the Cameron Highlands hill station.  Check-in to your hotel for a couple of nights and relax, taking in scenic views of rolling hills and rainforests, tinged with colonial nostalgia.

We recommend a 2-night stay to enjoy all the fun activities, and to explore the nature of this gorgeous mountain plateau region.  Temples, tea plantations, rose gardens, cream teas at mock-Tudor mansions, butterfly and bee farms, and possibly your first-and-only taste of Lavender Ice-Cream, will keep you and the family well entertained! 

With fresh mountain air and stunning views, this beautiful region is a delight for trekking.  Follow trails in the lush rainforest to waterfalls and through Orang Asli native villages.  Climb Mount Batu Brinchang, or discover the Mossy Forest and Cactus Valley.

Hotels are speckled throughout the small towns that combine to make up the Cameron Highlands.  One of our favorites is the mid-range Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands , with private balconies offering breathtaking views. Discover more about the towns and accommodation options here .   

Time to say goodbye to the Highlands and head down the twisting mountain road to Ipoh, 2 hours by Route 59 and 185.  Capital of the Perak state, Ipoh is Malaysia’s third largest city and is famed for its cave temples, towering limestone cliffs and well preserved British colonial architecture. 

A pleasure to explore by foot, Ipoh centre is split in two by the Kinta River with Ipoh Old Town on the west side and Ipoh New Town on the east.  Walk the historic streets of the Old Town, lined with ancient Chinese shophouses, admiring wall murals that street artists have added to the crumbling walls.  

Take a hit of Ipoh White Coffee at any one of the cool hipster coffee shops in this laid-back area, set against the backdrop of heritage architecture.  Head to Kong Heng Square, full of vine covered ruins with renovated buildings now housing stylish boutique shops and colorful market stalls.

Spend a day discovering the famous Buddhist cave temples (some with ancient images dating back thousands of years) and the oldest in the region, Sam Poh Tong Chinese Temple.  Travel slightly out of town for spectacular lakes and gorgeous limestone scenery at the Gunung Lang Recreational Park, or to Gopeng for the Gaharu Tea Valley. 

A mixture of Malay, Chinese Hakka and Cantonese, and Indian flavours have helped make Ipoh famous for its food culture.  Hawker food markets are numerous and cheap, offering an endless array of local specialties, or head to Jalan Leong Sin Nam for some tasty dim sum!

Luxury resorts, family hotels with pools and Kids Clubs, and cheap budget hotels are all available.  Splash out on a stay at the majestic Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat with garden, lake or water villas.  Slightly easier on the pocket is the Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites with standard and suite rooms, including 2 and 3-bedroom apartments great for families.   Compare Ipoh hotel options here .

Stay in George Town or at any one of the sprawling beach resorts.  Diverse in location, style and budget, accommodation options are numerous.  Indulge with a stay at the 5-star Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa Penang , located by the beach at Batu Ferringhi.  With multiple pools, restaurants, Kids Club, private golf course and gym, there are endless activities that make it hard to find time to explore the rest of the island! 

Discover more of our favourite Penang accommodation options here .

Depart from Penang International Airport, or continue your adventure by road travelling approx. 2-hours to the Thai border at Wang Prachan, making this part of a wonderful road trip from Malaysia to Thailand.

Read more about Penang in our full travel guide here . 

East Coast Malaysia Road Trip

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cherating – Kuala Terengganu (ferry to) Redang Island (ferry to) Kuala Terengganu – Kuala Besut (ferry to) Perhentian Islands (ferry to) Kuala Besut – Kota Bharu

Driving Time: 8 hours in total plus ferry times

Perfect For: People who love gorgeous beaches, tropical islands and interesting cities and have at least 9 nights

Let’s explore East Coast Malaysia!  Departing from Kuala Lumpur, it’s a 3-hour drive across the country on E8 highway to the coastal resort town of Cherating. 

A popular beach resort area in Pahang, Cherating is a quiet fishing village opening onto a wide beach.  Indulge in snorkeling, surfing and kitesurfing. 

Nearby, the Cherating River is good for kayak adventures or jump on a short cruise to explore the local mangroves.  Keep an eye out for snakes and monkeys along the way and head back in the evening for thousands of fireflies.  Drop by the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary in the north of the village, walkable from most accommodation, to see baby and rescued leatherback turtles.

Dotted with guesthouses and small hotels/chalets, Cherating is also home to Asia’s first Club Med – a 5-star all-inclusive beach resort.  Somewhere a little quieter to stay, the Royale Chulan Cherating Villa is excellent  with 34 beachfront villas and suites.

After a night or two at Cherating, travel north along Highway E8 (2h15m) to Kuala Terengganu.  The royal capital of the Terengganu region, this town was once a simple fishing village until developers discovered oil and rapid development took off! 

It is home to one of the best Chinatowns in Malaysia with Kampong-style stilt houses, and the beautiful “Floating Mosque”.  Discover the history of the region at the largest museum in Malaysia, the Muzim Kompleks Negeri Terengganu.  And head to Bukit Puteri for a 200-metre hill climb for great views across the city, the Sungai Terengganu river mouth and the South China Sea.

Feeling hungry?  Head back to Chinatown and try some delicious Peranakan dishes at Madame Bee’s Kitchen or the Town City Food Court.   For your overnight stay, we recommend the Grand Puteri Hotel .  Only five minutes’ walk from Chinatown and with reasonably priced all-air conditioned rooms, it’s ideal for all travelers.

After a good night’s sleep, wake refreshed and ready for your boat trip to exotic Redang Island!  Ferries depart – usually in the morning – from the Shahbandar Jetty, within Kuala Terengganu.  Remember to check the timings directly at the jetty or have your hotel assist as schedules can be volatile.  See here for full details on travelling to Redang Island.

Reaching Pulau Redang – best visited between late March-October – you’ll gasp in awe at the stunning white powder beaches and crystal-clear waters, set to the backdrop of lush tropical rainforest.  This is paradise, Malaysian-style!

Check-in for 3 nights at our recommended hotel – Laguna Redang – located on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Spend your time relaxing beachside or poolside, snorkeling or diving with the onsite PADI team, sampling treatments at the D’Manja Forest Spa or trekking in the cool rainforest.

After 3 nights at Laguna Redang it’s hard to pull yourself away but there’s still much to discover.  Catch the return ferry to Kuala Terengganu and travel (1h40m) further north along the coast to Kuala Besut for your small ferry (15-pax speedboats) to the Perhentian Islands. 

Expect the boat crossing to be a little wet and to stop at multiple locations dependent on where your fellow travelers are staying… which gives you a great chance to check-out hotels and the islands along the way!  Learn more here .  

Check-in for a 3 night stay at either Kecil – the party-backpacker style island and more livelier of the two, especially at Long Beach – or Besar, the more chilled and family-orientated.

Both islands have simple hotels usually opening directly onto the beach, serving Asian and some international cuisine.  Water sports are popular, as is exploring the interior jungle of the islands.  

No super-luxury resorts on offer, but arguably in the best position and with a swimming pool – a rarity for Perhentian hotels – is The Perhentian Island Resort .  Located on Besar, it has its own stretch of beach with restricted boat access. 

Enjoy slow, peaceful days where time almost seems to stand still until… it’s time to leave!  Jump back on the small ferry/speed boat to Kuala Besut and transfer 1 hour north along the coast to Kota Bharu. 

The largest city in Malaysia’s north-east, we suggest a one-night stay at Hotel Perdana , Kota Bharu – 4-star accommodation near museums and markets.  The city offers a handful of tourist attractions, all located within walking distance of each other.  Discover our Things To Do In Kota Bharu guide, whilst you wait for your onwards connection.

A popular transit point with its well-established airport – the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport – and railway connection to the south, Kota Bharu is also near to the Thai border for those looking to extend their tour into Thailand. 

Read more about Redang Island in our full travel guide here and Perhentian Islands in our full guide here .

Borneo Malaysia Road Trip Itinerary

Looking for a road trip in Malaysian Borneo? Here’s two great choices!

Overview: Kota Kinabalu – Poring Hot Springs – Sandakan – Sungai Kinabatangan – Tawau – Kota Kinabalu

Driving Time: 20 hours in total

Perfect For: Nature lovers who want to see the best Sabah offers on land with two weeks available

On the northeast coast of Borneo is the Malaysian state of Sabah.  Most visitors fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport and spend a few nights in the city before heading out for epic Borneo nature and wildlife adventures.  We suggest to check-in for four nights as Kota Kinabalu, its surrounding rural jungle, and beautiful coastline offer an awesome array of activities and tours!  

Discover the town’s bustling markets selling locally made handicrafts, admire the beautiful City Mosque built on stilts above a lagoon, visit Chinatown, take in spectacular views at Signal Hill Observatory Platform, and don’t miss a ride on the famous Borneo Railway through leafy jungles along the beautiful Sabah coastline.

Outside of the city, you can undertake a fairly easy (relative!) 1N2D climb of 13,000ft Mount Kinabalu, challenge yourself with white-water-rafting at Kiulu River, visit the Klias River for a wetland river cruise searching for proboscis monkeys, or the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park home to tigers, monkeys, gibbons and orang utans!

A full day is needed for island hopping at the spectacular Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the “jewel in the crown” of Sabah.  Covering five islands just off the coast from Kota Kinabalu, enjoy your day snorkeling and lazing over a bbq beach lunch. 

A final favorite of ours is the Monsopiad Cultural Village, 30 minutes outside of the city, which offers a fabulous fun glimpse of life in a traditional Kadazan village. 

The city’s accommodation caters for all budgets with many backpacker style options, alongside more luxurious global-brand hotels.  The Magellan Sutera Resort is our top selection, located at the Sutera Harbour. This sprawling resort is set amongst tropical gardens and has beautiful South China Sea views.  If time allows, split your stay with a couple of nights at the 5-star Gaya Island Resort , set on an island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. 

Dragging yourself away from action-packed Kota Kinabalu, drive across Borneo to the northeast coastal town of Sandakan.  This long 330km travel is on well sign-posted but often pot-holed roads.  Passing alongside Mount Kinabalu, you’ll enjoy stunning views across the Kinabalu National Park.  

Break up the journey with a few stops, including at the awesome Poring Hot Springs to float in their high sulfur pools, and the Sabah Tea Resort Restaurant is a good spot for lunch. 

Reaching Sandakan and Sepilok check-in to your hotel.  There aren’t too many great options in Sandakan with the best options being in nearby Sepilok close to the wildlife experiences. Consider the Sepilok Nature Resort .

For most travelers, Sandakan is synonymous with The Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre , being the main draw for many tourists to Borneo.  Combined with a visit to the adjacent Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre , you’ll spend an interesting day learning about these endangered animals and their disappearing habitat. 

Around Sandakan you’ll find many tour companies offering a myriad of wildlife day tours and encounters, such as visiting the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary or Turtle Islands National Park , special Rainforest Discovery Tours and exploration of the Gomantong Caves, home to millions of swiftlets. 

Best arranged with the hotel as part of a package tour, depart Sandakan for possibly the highlight of your trip, with two nights at the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort on the Kinabatangan River.  Stay at simple rainforest accommodation and spend your time enjoying day cruises and night treks in search of primates – such as the endemic proboscis monkey – birds, and other wildlife.

After two amazing nights depart on a very bumpy drive towards Tawau, where we recommend a 3 night stay.  Many tourists will use this time to head into the Danum Valley Conservation Area – approx. 2.5 hours from Tawau town and, unless you have your own 4WD, only accessible as part of a package with the Danum Valley Field Centre.  

Stunning secondary forest leads slowly into the warm humidity of the primitive jungle.  Stay overnight at the basic Danum Valley Field Centre chalets and experience epic early morning birding, night jungle drives and ancient rainforest day and night guided treks.  Extremely remote, the Danum rainforest is one of Borneo’s most legendary adventures. 

If long travel and muddy treks is not your thing, choose to stay in Tawau – Sabah’s third largest city – and check-in for 3 nights at the Borneo Royale Hotel .  

Spend a day visiting the Tawau Hills Park (Taman Bukit Tawau) with several easy, low-altitude jungle treks, a canopy walk and bird-breeding centre.  22km north of Tawau, you’ll enjoy towering flora, a botanical garden, hot springs and swimmable waterfall, alongside the easy- trekking peaks and trails.

Another full day can be enjoyed at the nearer Bukit Gemok Tawau, only 10km from the town.  With untouched forest full of giant trees and some unique elusive creatures, hike for approximately an hour to the Titian Silara canopy walkway.  

Back in the town, visit local markets specializing in dried salted fish, anchovies and prawns, or handicraft markets full of handwoven baskets and wooden souvenirs. And drop by the Teck Guan Cocoa Museum factory to watch first-hand cocoa processing into beverages and chocolate.  

Return to Kota Kinabalu on direct domestic flight from Tawau Airport.

Click here to see the prices for your dates

Read more about Kota Kinabalu in our full travel guide here . 

Kuching Explorer

Overview: Kuching

Driving Time: Minimal

Perfect For: Nature lovers who want an easy way to see Borneo without switching hotels a lot and have a minimum of 4 nights

Capital of the Malaysian state of Sarawak, Borneo, the fantastic city of Kuching is slowly becoming a top tourist draw.  Charming, compact, with riverside walks, historic buildings and colorful street art, there are many options for easy day trips to the surrounding wilds of Sarawak.

Check-in to your hotel – with our top choice, the Hilton Kuching , centrally located with excellent views of Sarawak River- for 4 nights, giving ample time to discover the city and enjoy our suggested day trips.

One of the most charming cities in southeast Asia, the city’s architectural heritage of White Rajah Brooke-era buildings and 19th-century Chinese shophouses is well preserved.  Though  perhaps the focal point is the winding Sarawak River, flowing through the historic heart of the city.  

Stroll along the river walkways and you’ll find historic buildings such as the Square Tower, Chinese History Museum and Sarawak Steamship Building.

Kuching also has some excellent museums and galleries, reflecting on the region’s fascinating history.  The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita is a must see, telling the remarkable story of the White Rajahs of Sarawak.  And visit the Sarawak Museum, said to hold one of the best collections in southeast Asia.

Cross Kuching’s famous Darul Hana Bridge for good views, and at night enjoy the Darul Hana musical fountain and light show.  Drop into the Main Bazaar and Carpenter Street at Kuching’s old Chinatown, for temples, Chinese medicine and food stalls.

Now it’s time to head out of town, travelling self-guided or as part of a guided tour for some terrific wildlife experiences! 

For the best national park experience in Sarawak – and one of the best places in the area to spot those funny, long-nosed proboscis monkeys – spend a day exploring Bako National Park .  A hot destination for hiking, with a mix of easy and longer trails, and epic jungle rainforest, mangrove swamps and limestone cliffs. 

To reach the Park, get an early start and travel approx. 1 hour outside of Kuching to the small pier next to the Bako Market.  A 20 minutes (often wet!) boat crossing takes you to the Park, where you’ll complete a quick registration at the National Park Headquarters and then you’re all set to explore!

Trails from 0.5km to 5.8km, with varying difficulties, spread out through the park with usually a wide range of wildlife easily spotted not too far from the Headquarters.  Keep binoculars at the ready for cheeky monkeys, Bornean bearded pigs, large monitor lizards and many colourful birds.   

If you prefer to explore the park by kayak, join an organized tour from Kuching for a peaceful 11km river kayak. 

Next up, how about meeting the orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve ?  Probably the most popular day trip from Kuching, whilst there is no guarantee of seeing these semi-wild intelligent primates, there is a fairly good chance outside of the fruiting season (Dec and Jan).  Previously rehabilitated at the centre and returned to the wild, the animals regularly return for twice daily feedings.

Check latest schedules but expect a 9-10am and 3-3.30pm feeding schedule, with the best chance of viewing them at the earlier session, and also be aware of the 1.5km walk from the main building to the feeding area. 

Another great day out is a full day at the Santubong Peninsula , only 35km outside of Kuching.  A popular weekend destination for locals, enjoy the beach and swimming in the South China Sea.  

Take lunch at the gorgeous Damai Beach Resort and walk over to the Sarawak Cultural Village, an open-air “living” museum featuring a collection of longhouse replicas and traditional instruments.  Aim to catch their twice-daily splendid cultural show.

In the late afternoon make your way to the nearby Kuching Wetlands National Park, with over 6000 hectares of mangrove forest.  A mosaic of small rivers, creeks and streams meander through the Park, and are best explored on a Santubong Wildlife Cruise.  Cameras at the ready in search of Irrawaddy dolphins, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and as the light fades fireflies come out to play…   

I hope you enjoyed this Malaysia road trip guide! For more information on Malaysia itineraries, read all our itineraries here . You can also find all our guides to planning a Malaysia trip here .

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!

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By Sharon Gourlay

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

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Singapore and Malaysia Trip: 10-Day Itinerary

In Itinerary , Malaysia , Malaysia , Travel Guide by Giannisa Ovie January 29, 2024

If you’ve been planning a massive trip to Singapore and Malaysia but aren’t sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place! Planning a trip can be difficult, especially given how much there is to see and do in these two nations. I’ve created this post, based on my personal travel experience, to help you prepare for your Singapore and Malaysia trip.

By the way, this itinerary is ideal if you have big dreams but limited travelling time. With this itinerary, you’ll spend 10 days in total exploring and experiencing these two incredible countries.  From Singapore’s sleek metropolis to Malaysia’s diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains. One advantage of visiting these two Southeast Asian nations is that you can readily get a range of halal dishes! 😋 If you enjoy shopping for modest clothing, there are also some wonderful places to spend your money! 💸

So, start scrolling to prepare for an epic Singapore and Malaysia trip!

Day 1 – Welcome to Singapore!

• Jewel Changi Airport
• Enjoy Singapore at night (e.g. Gardens by the Bay to watch the light show)

Welcome to the Lion City!

Once you arrive here, and if you have the energy, don’t rush to leave the airport. Changi Airport has been crowned as the ‘World’s Best Airport’, and it’s worth spending some time exploring.  The title is not without a reason. Changi Airport is full of art installations and facilities that will refresh you in between the aeroplane journey. Out of all the things that you can enjoy here, you should visit the HSBC Rain Vortex , the world’s largest and tallest indoor waterfall that is located at Jewel Changi Airport , a nature-themed entertainment and retail complex that is linked to the airport’s passenger terminals.

Once you leave the airport, go to your hotel and have some free time to rest and catch up on sleep after your long journey before exploring the surrounding area.

Gardens by The Bay at night. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

Singapore is pretty safe for travellers, including Muslim women. You can enjoy the city’s night lights in some areas, such as Clarke Quay and Youth Olympic Park . You can also visit Gardens by the Bay to watch the mesmerising light show, available daily at 7:45 and 8:45 pm.

HTG Tip: Choose accommodation close to tourist attractions and public transportation hubs. Depending on your budget, these areas can be your choice: Orchard Road, Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. You can consider staying around the Kampong Glam area for easier access to the mosque and halal food.

Day 2 – Singapore City Tour

• Gardens by the Bay
• Singapore Botanic Gardens
• Sightseeing bus tour

Today is the day to explore more of Singapore!

You can visit various places and participate in different activities depending on your interests. Gardens by the Bay is the most popular attraction. This place is amazingly mind-blowing. It’s home to the iconic Supertrees and two conservatories — Cloud Forest and Flower Dome . If you enjoy nature, you’re in the right place because Singapore is considered the greenest city in Asia. Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens , a 158-year-old tropical garden that is the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Taking sightseeing bus tours is another way to get around. All you need to do is hop on the bus; the driver and audio guide will explain what you see along the way. You’ll be able to see key attractions like the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion, Botanic Gardens, and Orchard Road , just to name a few.

Some of the key attractions in Singapore. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

Today’s zuhr and asr can be performed at Sultan Mosque , which is located in the Arab Quarter in Kampong Glam. After praying, you can do a quick tour of this magnificent mosque. You can also go shopping or café hopping in this area, which has a variety of modest fashion boutiques, eateries, and cafes.

Sultan Mosque, Singapore. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

Day 3 – To The Pristine of Langkawi Island

• Eagle Square
• Langkawi’s Cable Car and Sky Bridge
• Cenang Beach

Let’s now go from city escape to island living. This morning, you can check out of your hotel early to take a flight to Malaysia’s Langkawi Island .

HTG Tip: You can book AirAsia’s flight at 10:45 am from Changi Airport Singapore. The flight is around 1 hour and 25 minutes. So, by the time you arrive in Langkawi at 12:15 pm (there’s no time difference between Singapore and Malaysia, GMT+8), you still have plenty of time to explore the island before it gets dark.

Feel the island’s calm vibe wash over you as you arrive in Langkawi. Take a quick visit to Eagle Square , where you can snap a quick photo with Langkawi’s mascot, the eagle. After lunch, you can gaze at Langkawi’s famed Cable Car and Sky Bridge . The bridge, suspended over a green mountain, gives a 360-degree panorama of the island’s breathtaking view. I must say that the view from the top is amazing, and the Cable Car journey is thrilling!

View from Langkawi’s Cable Car and Sky Bridge. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

You can finish your afternoon with a glimpse of Langkawi’s famous Cenang Beach . Enjoy the rest of your evening and the sunset.

HTG Tip: If you’re searching for a peaceful place to stay in Langkawi, choose Casa Del Mar, which is regarded as one of the nicest hotels on the island. They offer limited rooms and have direct access to Cenang Beach, providing easy access to the beach and waves.

Day 4 – Exploring the Island Life

• Mangrove tour on a boat (Kilim Geoforest Park)
• Island hopping trip (Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singa, and Pulau Beras Basah)

Time to venture out and explore more of Langkawi Island! This morning, you can choose from various exciting activities in nature. If your hotel offers activity arrangements, consider opting for the convenience they provide. On the other hand, if you prefer managing your own adventure, here are some activities you can enjoy in Langkawi.

The northeast shore of Langkawi is densely forested with mangroves and is vital to the island’s ecosystem. This area is part of Kilim Geoforest Park , a UNESCO Network Of Global Geoparks member. Accessible only by joining a mangrove tour on a boat , this excursion provides an excellent opportunity to learn about flora and creatures and how they interact in the ecosystem.

Mangrove tour. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

If you enjoy water sports, there is a mesmerising 4-hour Island Hopping trip that allows you to experience the delights of Langkawi on a shared boat with other tourists (unless you choose the private option, in which case you would have the boat all to yourself 😉). You’ll explore three tropical islands, each with its incredible narrative. Swim in the waves of Pulau Dayang Bunting , watch the mighty eagles swoop in the skies over Pulau Singa , then relax on the white sands of Pulau Beras Basah or go snorkelling.

Day 5 – To The Penang’s Charm We Go

• Ferry ride to the mainland
• Penang; George Town or Batu Feringghi

You can start your day a bit late today to give yourself extra time to enjoy your last morning in Langkawi before going to the charming city of Penang.

Today, you’ll try another mode of transportation, since you need to take a ferry from Langkawi to the main island. You can choose between the two jetties: Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis . Both ports have different ferry schedules, so you might want to check both to find the ferry that matches your schedule. The ferry trip from Langkawi to Kuala Kedah is 1 hour 45 minutes, while to Kuala Perlis is around 1 hour 15 minutes.

Upon arriving at the jetty, you can stop for lunch before continuing the drive to Penang, and then you go straight to the hotel. In Penang , you can choose between staying in George Town , the capital of Penang Island or in Batu Feringghi , if you want to extend your day to be by the beach.

George Town’s beautiful colonial alleys are a hub of culture, street art, and some of the best street food. You’ll see the Chinese houses and skyscrapers placed side by side, giving this city a unique atmosphere. Batu Ferringhi is most known for its sandy beaches. A variety of enjoyable activities are available along this coastline, including water sports and horseback riding. The area comes alive with a night bazaar when the sun goes down.

Batu Ferringhi Beach sunset view. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

Day 6 – Explore More of Penang

• Penang Hill Funicular
• A walking tour of George Town (Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Kapitan Keling Mosque)
• Halal street food

Kick off the day with a unique ride on the Penang Hill Funicular , followed by the breathtaking views from Penang Hill itself. Capture the spectacular landscapes as you breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Then, put on your explorer’s hat and join a walking tour of George Town. You should see the town’s two magnificent historic mansions , the Pinang Peranakan Mansion (the Green Mansion) and the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (the Blue Mansion). Continue connecting the history of Islam in Malaysia by visiting the fascinating Kapitan Keling Mosque , built in the 19th century by Indian Muslim traders.

Penang halal culinary gems, nasi kandar and cendol. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

A visit to Penang would be incomplete without exploring the city’s street food culture. If you’re looking for a rice meal, consider Nasi Kandar , which combines steamed rice with a unique curry, side dishes, and gravies. Curries are available in various vegetable, seafood, and meat combinations. The curry is super rich, flavourful and might also be a bit spicy.

HTG Tip: Nasi Kandar is originally served in one plate. So you’ll have the rice, side dishes of your choice, and all drenched in the curry sauce. However, you can always tell the staff if you prefer to have everything separately. Moreover, you’ll see that most locals will eat using their right hand (worry not, sinks and liquid hand soap are available 😉 ). But if you’re comfortable using utensils, they are available for you to use.

Laksa Penang , commonly known as Asam Laksa, is a popular noodle dish. A spicy poached and flaked mackerel broth noodle dish topped with shredded veggies. Its rich flavour includes tangy, spicy, and sour notes. Cendol , an iced sweet delicacy with droplets of pandan-flavoured green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup, is a great way to beat the heat. Excellent choice for a daytime dessert!

Day 7 – Welcome to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia!

• Road trip to Kuala Lumpur
• Bukit Bintang
• Petronas Twin Tower

Say farewell to Penang and make your way to Kuala Lumpur!

HTG Tip: Secure accommodation close to the tourist hotspots and public transportation hubs for seamless exploration. KL Sentral, Pasar Seni (Central Market), and Bukit Bintang are excellent area choices. With landmarks within walking distance, you’ll have more money to splurge on something else – perhaps some modest fashion finds? 😉

After the journey, give yourself some well-deserved downtime to recharge and catch up on sleep. Once you’re feeling refreshed, it’s time to dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Kuala Lumpur! In the evening, set off to explore the lively vibes of Bukit Bintang with its iconic crossing often likened to Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing. Check out the fancy Pavilion Mall for a shopping spree or just some air-conditioned bliss. Bukit Bintang area is a haven for foodies, offering diverse halal options. Don’t miss the chance to savour an authentic yet halal-certified version of Hainanese chicken rice at Nasi Ayam Hainan Chee Meng .

Make your way to the magnificent Petronas Twin Towers , known as KLCC, as the sun sets. Pavilion Mall has a direct connection, making it easy for you to get there. The twin towers light up the night sky, creating a perfect backdrop for your pictures. Head to KLCC Park , where a colourful dancing fountain show awaits.

Petronas Twin Tower and Saloma Bridge. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

HTG Tip: You can easily reach KLCC by walking through The Pavilion – KLCC Bridge . It’s a 1.17 km air-conditioned elevated walkway that connects Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and KLCC, which will take about 15 – 20 minutes. If you start walking from the Pavilion, the walk begins at the Connection area, where there are a lot of hip cafes. On the other hand, coming from KLCC, the walk starts from the Concourse Level of Suria KLCC Shopping Mall.

Day 8 – Exploring Kuala Lumpur

• Pasar Seni (Central Market)
• Federal Territory Mosque
• Masjid Jamek Mosque
• Islamic Arts Museum

After a hearty breakfast, let’s continue to explore the city of Kuala Lumpur! Head over to Pasar Seni (Central Market) , a treasure trove of arts, crafts, and souvenirs, all infused with the essence of Malaysia’s culture. Unleash your inner artist at a Batik workshop – a chance to weave a piece of yourself into a Batik masterpiece. Batik, a traditional art form, involves creating intricate patterns on fabric using wax-resistant dyeing techniques. It’s a beautiful blend of creativity, patience, and vibrant colours, offering a truly immersive cultural experience.

When lunchtime comes, let’s crash a Malay wedding without an invitation! Experience the unique flavours of Nasi Kahwin Hari-Hari , offering a delightful array of Malay wedding dishes. Choose from options like ayam goreng (fried chicken), ayam masak merah (red chicken curry), or daging masak hitam (beef in black sauce). Each dish is a burst of flavour, truly finger-licking good! But if you fancy using a utensil, then go ahead. It will be just as delicious! 😉

Masjid Jamek and Islamic Arts Museum. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

Visit the majestic Federal Territory Mosque and Masjid Jamek Mosque to find inner calm amidst the architectural marvels. You can spend some time with the locals for zuhr and asr prayers. If you want to learn more about the mosques, they have in-house guides who will happily explain the history of the mosques. To conclude your exploration, pay a visit to the Islamic Arts Museum , which features unique displays of the Islamic world of the arts.

Day 9 – Visit The Pink Mosque

• Putra Mosque

This morning, we’ll explore the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, specifically the Putrajaya area, which is around 45 minutes distant. Malaysia’s capital may be Kuala Lumpur, but the federal administrative centre is Putrajaya.

Tourists come to Putrajaya mostly to see this stunning pink-tiled mosque. Putra Mosque is the Federal Territory’s primary mosque, which is located near the current Prime Minister’s office, Putra Square, and Putrajaya Lake. The Putra Mosque’s architecture is striking, with its pink dome, minarets, and interior designs. Thus, it is also known as the Pink Mosque . You can request a tour and explanation of the mosque from the in-house guides. When the time comes for prayer, you can certainly take your wudhu at the designated space and join the congregational prayer.

Putra Mosque, Putrajaya. Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

Photographer: Gia. Halal Travel Guide, All Rights Reserved

After this visit, you can return to Kuala Lumpur and spend the rest of the day to fit your preferences. Kuala Lumpur is the perfect city for you who fancy modest-clothing shopping. You can go to Tuanku Abdul Rahman Street , also known as ‘Jalan TAR’ by the locals. Numerous businesses in this area sell anything from Muslim attire to Baju Kurung (traditional Malaysian clothes that come in matching blouses and skirts), headscarves, and much more.

Day 10 – Farewell

And now comes the final day!

Take advantage of your last opportunity to purchase a souvenir for your family and friends. Beryl’s , Malaysia’s well-known chocolate brand, sells a variety of chocolates. Chocolate bars, nut-filled chocolate, cookies, and many other varieties are available. You can also get chocolate with a particular fruit flavour, such as durian, a fruit popular in Southeast Asia and known as ‘the king of fruit’. But my favourite is always Beryl’s Tiramisu series; it’s yummy! Beryl’s shop can be found in Pasar Seni (Sentral Market), KLCC, and the airport.

That’s the end of your exploration. I hope you have a great time during this Singapore and Malaysia trip!

Feel inspired to take a Singapore and Malaysia trip?

If you want to explore these two Southeast Asian countries, I’m happy to share that Halal Travel Guide organises a Singapore and Malaysia trip with this itinerary . Check out the Halal Travel Guide trip page and find out if a set of dates matches your schedule. With just a £100 deposit, you can reserve your spot on the A Golden Voyage: Singapore & Malaysia 2024!

I look forward to the possibility of having you on our trip and eating all those delicious foods together, inshaAllah! 🤩

Assalamu’alaikum, hi!

I’m Gia, Trip Manager of Halal Travel Guide. I’m an Indonesian living in Jakarta. Besides writing (mostly about travel-related topics), I’m also keen on travelling and cooking. My love language is food, and I’m a cat person. I hope you enjoy this article!

Please find me on Instagram and TikTok ! 👋🏼

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The ideal Singapore Malaysia Itinerary | 2 weeks in Singapore & Malaysia

You’re thinking about travelling to Singapore and Malaysia and not sure where to start or what to do? Well fear not, we’ve put together the perfect tried and tested 2 week travel guide to these two magnificent countries, with everything you need to know on what to do, where to stay, best travel routes and so much more! Yup, after travelling the breadth of both countries, we’ve curated what we believe is the perfect Singapore Malaysia itinerary.

Now we’ve created this as a 2 week guide but you can swap out sections and even remove stops to make this a 10 day Singapore Malaysia itinerary. Looking to stay a little longer? We’ve got some cracking bonus activities in most cities or a list of other gems to consider as part of your Singapore Malaysia trip. And, in case you’re still not satisfied, feel free to pick our brains on your own itinerary – just drop us a comment below or get in touch with us here .

Our perfect Singapore Malaysia itinerary

• Day 1 & 2 – Singapore

Day 3 – Singapore to Melaka (Malacca)

Day 4 – melaka, day 5 – melaka to port dickson, day 6 – port dickson to kuala lumpur.

• Day 7 & 8 – Kuala Lumpur

Day 9 – Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh

Day 10 – ipoh, day 11 – ipoh to penang, day 12 – penang, day 13 – penang to langkawi, day 14 – langkawi, why go to singapore & malaysia.

• Changi Airport is one of the best connected airports in the world (and potentially the most beautiful), so not only is it a great way into the Southeast Asia region, it’s also an Instagrammer’s dream, with plenty of beautiful photo spots to explore as soon as you get off the plane!
• A major trading port, over the years from colonial rule to the local flavour, the cuisine has developed to some of the best in the world. Your stomach will thank you for going to Singapore!
• For a small island there are fantastic diverse areas to explore from the vibrant Chinatown to the bustling Little India . Really so much to see across many cultures.
• There are awesome free things to do, so although it’s definitely not the cheapest part of Southeast Asia, you’ll be surprised by what you can do without spending a dime.

We don’t know where to start in convincing you to go to Malaysia – it’s one of our favourite countries in Asia and we have visited so many times, each visit bringing us something entirely new and unexpected. But, in case you need more motivation, here are some reasons why you might love it:

• Malaysia has some of the friendliest people. Yes, people across Asia are friendly but we find Malaysians to be so authentic, kind and helpful – there have been many times when locals have taken us around free of charge, helped us choose our lunch and given us advice.
• From nasi kandar to the sweet treats of kuih , Malaysia is a melting pot when it comes to cuisine, so much so that Singaporeans (known as some of the world’s biggest foodies), travel to places like Ipoh just to eat! Whether you have a sweet tooth or have more savoury tastes, the food of this country is worth a trip alone.
• It’s cheap as durian chips. Honestly, Malaysia is such an affordable country, particularly when it comes to accommodation and food. This wallet-friendly country is modern yet inexpensive, a winning combination.
• Malaysia has so much variety to offer. From pristine beaches in Langkawi or the Perhentian islands, to hiking in the forests or the tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands or even city dwellers delighting in Kuala Lumpur, the country offers something for everyone.
• Culture buffs will also feel right at home. Whether it’s museums, historical monuments or just delving into street art, galleries or just traipsing the streets to find local customs, you’ll find a rich tapestry of culture in the country.

Best transport options for your Singapore Malaysia trip itinerary

Buses and Boats:

We’ve used most of the main Asia boat and bus service providers, and we’d personally recommend Bookaway . They provide 24 hour assistance and many routes have great cancellation policies, which is a bit of peace of mind when travelling. You never know when your plans will change…

Arriving into Singapore and other flights:

Make sure you check out the latest flight deals on Skyscanner!

Air Asia is probably the best low cost airline in the region, which we have flown countless times – they’re like the Easyjet or Southwest of Asia, but often make it onto the best budget airlines in the world list. You get what you expect: no fuss, extra baggage/seat/meal costs, but they’re definitely a great option if you want to explore further parts of Malaysia and beyond.

There aren’t many countries in Southeast Asia where we’d recommend that you rent a car for your itinerary, but across Malaysia is definitely one! The roads are some of the safest to drive in the region.

Check out the cost of renting in Malaysia on RentalCars.

Travel Insurance for your Singapore Malaysia trip

Got your travel insurance booked? We promise to never push a brand or product we don’t personally use, and the travel cover from Safety Wing is a policy we don’t just use, but we highly recommend. They offer some of the most flexible policies, amazing customer service and are affordable too.

Check out the latest travel insurance prices with Safety Wing here.

Day 1 – Singapore

So you’ve landed into Singapore, and we’ve given you a couple of days to explore this wonderful city. In our opinion that’s probably just about long enough to get around and see the key sights, but if you want to extend your time here, we’ve also outlined a few other activities that you could add into your Singapore itinerary.

Explore Little India

After dropping your bags at your accommodation, head out to our favourite part of Singapore: the bustling Little India . If you’re hungry, start at Race Course Road (this area actually used to be home to a race course), and try some of the famous fish head curry! Not so into fish (or heads) you’ll find some of the best Indian food in the world.

The two other major things to do in Little India are visit the temples and shop. The most famous temple in Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman is also one of the oldest in Singapore and definitely worth a stop for some photos and to learn more about the Hindu religion. The temple is open daily from 5.30am to 9.30pm.

Photo Credit: J Powers 65 / Flickr

And then for a quick shop, you must head to the Mustafa Centre – a 24 hour Singapore institution. Here you’ll be able to find everything from groceries to electronics, books to jewellery…

Walk over the Helix bridge

Next head over to the start of the Helix Bridge – it’s about a 3km walk from Little India so you may want to take a Grab (Uber in Southeast Asia), especially since it can be crazy hot and humid in Singapore. This pedestrian bridge is made from over 650 tons of stainless steel and 1000 tons of carbon steel fused to look like a ‘helix’, and is a great place to take a photo.

As you arrive at the end of the Helix Bridge you can see the Singapore Flyer. It’s a bit like the London Eye and a great thing to do in Singapore at night , if you want to add it to your plate.

Check out the Art Science Museum

At the far end of the Helix Bridge you’ll find the Art Science Museum , which has really become an Instagram hotspot recently, with its Future World Exhibition. This permanent fixture includes interactive digital art installations including a digital garden full of waterfalls, butterflies that flit away when you touch them and scattering cherry blossoms.

Open daily from 10am to 7pm, this is a really fun, interactive museum that’s great for both adults and kids.

Click here to buy tickets for the Art Science Museum?

Take a tour of the Gardens by the Bay

The most visually stunning place in Singapore and an absolute must for your itinerary, the Gardens by the Bay is one of the best attractions we have visited. It’s also reviewed as the number one destination in Singapore on TripAdvisor, so has to make your list.

Set a short walk from the Art Science Museum, the Gardens by the Bay is an incredible garden complex. It’s free to enter and just wandering around the Supertree Grove is absolutely gratis but you’ll need to purchase tickets for some of the attractions.

If possible, time your visit for the late afternoon so you have the time to explore both the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome at a minimum, before staying in the evening for the free light show that is set to music in the Supertree Grove! There are two free evening light shows daily at 7.45pm and 8.45pm.

Check out the latest prices for combo tickets here .

Where to stay in Singapore

Budget: Set in our favourite Little India district, if you’re on a little bit of a budget you should check out the Vintage Inn Boutique Capsule . With hotels and accommodation being quite expensive, there are a lot of budget pod style options in Singapore.

Mid-range: If you’re keen to stay in Chinatown, one of the best-rated hotels in the area is the  AMOY . A wonderful 4* star property, this boutique hotel is super charming and well-designed, inspired by China yet delivered with a modern twist.

Luxury: If money is not an option, then you have to check out the Marina Bay Sands . As the most recognisable hotel in Singapore and the epicentre of all the things to do, you can’t get a better option.

If you’re looking for a few more hotel options in Singapore, we have broken down our favourite areas to stay here .

Getting from Changi Airport into town

Airport shuttle bus: Taking around 30 minutes to get from the airport to the city centre, the shuttle bus is a great option for when you first arrive into Singapore. In the arrival halls at Changi you can book a ticket at the Ground Transport Deck, the cost of the ticket is 9 SGD (6.20 USD/5.30 GBP).

MRT: The MRT is cheap, fast, clean and reliable – making it our preferred way to get from the airport to the city centre. A ticket will set you back around 2 SGD (1.40 USD/1.20 GBP), but note that you’ll need to change stations on your journey. If you’re used to the Underground or Metro then this will be a doddle.

Taxi: The most expensive way to get to your accommodation from the airport, but also the most convenient. Pick up a Grab or a taxi from outside arrivals. Starting price for the journey is around 20 SGD (13.80 USD/11.80 GBP) for the 20 min journey into town, but costs can go up quite a bit depending on where you are staying. Also good to note that there are a lot of potential surcharges that can add to the costs.

Day 2 – Singapore

Now you could easily spend your entire second day out on Sentosa Island – we’ve put some more info on that in the Bonus Activities below – but we aren’t huge fairground and resort fans, so have suggested some other activities. That said, feel free to swap these out!

Visit Fort Canning

When we stayed in Singapore we were near Fort Canning, a great estate to beat the heat in Singapore. More than just a green space in the city, For Canning is where the Malay royalty used to live, as well as where the British surrendered to the Japanese during World War II. Take a walk around the grounds to see the Maritime Corner, the Fort Gate (remnants of the fortress), the Spice Garden and even a former underground military complex, called the Battle Box.

You can also hop over to the National Museum of Singapore, located a few metres away or over to Clarke Quay, a selection of waterside restaurants and bars. We really enjoyed a glass (or two) of wine at Wine connection at Clarke Quay’s Robertson Walk.

Kampong Glam – Haji Lane, Arab Street and more

Now you’ve explored Little India and possibly taken a turn in Chinatown so its worth circling another area of cultural highlights, Kampong Glam. This is the historically Muslim quarter of the city which houses the very famous Haji Lane and Arab Street.

Start off with Haji Lane, a bit of a gem for shopaholics. This narrow, slightly shabby street is flanked by unique boutiques seeing retro clothing; a far cry from the luxury malls the city is known for. There is also a lot of street art dotted around the Haji Lane area that is worth taking a snap of.

Next up, move on through to Arab Street where you’ll find traditional carpet and textile stores, perfume shops, cafes and restaurants. Eat some traditional Muslim food, bargain over some wares and just enjoy immersing yourself in the culture of the area.

Other highlights in the Kampong Glam are includes the city’s largest mosque, the Masjid Sultan, the picture perfect road of Bussorah Street or the Malay Heritage Centre , which includes nine different galleries featuring the history and culture of the Malaysian people in Singapore.

Take a night safari

We aren’t fans of zoos, but the Singapore Zoo does an amazing job and, if you are going to visit a zoo, you should try it at night! It’s like Night at the Museum come to life, but with animals! Essentially the Night Safari is the globe’s first nocturnal wildlife park where you can see over 900 animals on an evening safari. This 35 minute tram ride showcases everything from leopards to lions as well as a 20 minute show called ‘Creatures of the Night’ set in a massive outdoor amphitheatre.

Book the night safari here.

Bonus things to do in Singapore

So there’s only so much you can cram into two days in Singapore, but just in case you’re hoping to extend your time in the city, here are some of our other top recommendations on what to do as part of your Singapore itinerary:

Shopping on Orchard Road

One of the most famous shopping roads in Asia, if you’re keen to get some serious retail therapy done while in Singapore then Orchard Road has to be your go to place. The 2.2km stretch of road has department stores, shops and food courts galore. You could spend a few days here if shopping is your thing.

Drinks at Raffles

You’ve probably heard of a Singapore Sling? What you probably didn’t realise was that it was invented at the Raffles Hotel back in 1915… so make sure that you try out a cocktail at this famous establishment. Open from 11am to midnight, you might want to ring ahead to reserve a table! And it won’t be cheap either…

Sentosa Island and Universal Studios Singapore

Its worth an entire day trip out – checking out the many attractions on Sentosa Island across the Singapore River, particularly Universal Studios . Start your tour at Merlion Plaza and climb up for fantastic views of the city. Try the zipline at Mega Adventure, visit the incredible aquarium, try the skyline luge… the number of things to do on Sentosa are almost endless!

Universal Studios is undoubtedly one of the biggest drawcards on Sentosa. This 50 acre theme park has seven massive themed zones including Hollywood, Ancient Egypt, Madagascar and Sci-Fi City. Whether you’re an avid movie buff or just want to go for the 24 rides and attractions, Universal Studios is a huge fun day out.

Check out the various Universal Studios ticket options here.

Looking for a Singapore Travel Guide focussed on activities after dark? Well, luckily we have a full article on the top 10 must-do’s put together by a local (a good friend of ours), and tested out by us when we visited recently. So make sure you check this out if you want more ideas for evening fun!

After you’ve had some breakfast, check out and take the bus to Melaka , this will give you enough time in the afternoon to check out a few of the local attractions. If you haven’t heard of Melaka, then you’re in for a treat. Also spelled as Malacca, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage city and is chockfull of colonial buildings, street art and to-die-for cuisine!

In the afternoon, head out on a walking tour of the old town to check out the heritage buildings – there are loads, but we’ve picked the below as an easy circular walk that won’t take a huge amount of time.

Note: We’d recommend a bus with a 10.00am departure to allow you to arrive into Melaka and check into your accommodation at around 2pm (generally the time for most hotel check ins).

See the A’Famosa

Starting at the A Famosa, also known as the Porta de Santiago. This landmark was built in 1511 by the Portuguese but today not a lot of the fortress remains as it was pretty much destroyed by the Dutch in the 1641 invasion. All that currently stands is the main gate of the fortress – but it’s a great place to start your heritage walk.

Walk up to St Paul’s Hill and Church

Right behind A’Famosa, you’ll find St Paul’s Hill and St Paul’s Church – it’s about a 5 minute walk up the hill by steps so not too strenuous. And is definitely worth it for the views alone.

The church was originally built by the Portuguese but was turned into a fortress during the Dutch siege, although returned to it’s role as a church afterwards. Nowadays the church is left in ruins without a roof or any doors, but is worth a turn regardless. There’s also a slightly spooky Dutch graveyard within the grounds.

See the Stadthuys

Descending the stairs at the far side of St Paul’s Church you will eventually make your way down to the old city hall, the Dutch-built Stadthuys – which is the oldest standing Dutch building in Southeast Asia, dating back to 1650.

No longer the city hall, although impressively used as such for over 300 years until 1980, the building is now used as a museum chronicling the history of Malacca, and well worth a quick visit. During the week, the museum is open from 9am to 5pm, with later hours at the weekend (open until 8.30pm).

Check out Christ Church

Right next to the Stadthuys, you’ll find the city’s most iconic landmark: the Christ Church. Built in 1753 by the Dutch, it was constructed to celebrate 100 years of Dutch rule in the city.

The striking red brick building sits in a square, with the old clock tower, fountain and a much more modern I Love Melaka sign; all perfect for a few Instagram (or postcard-perfect) pictures! After visiting the church, head down the red street towards your final location for the day: St Francis Xavier’s Church.

Visit St Francis Xavier’s Church

Located at one end of Jalan Laksamana (the red road), you’ll find this beautiful church from the 1850s that was built in homage (and named after) St Francis Xavier, one of the pioneering missionaries who came to Southeast Asia in the 1500s.

Note: there is a pretty cool piece of street art on the wall opposite the church, so don’t miss that!

Getting from Singapore to Melaka

Travel time: 4 hours

Bus : The easiest way is to take a bus between Singapore and Melaka – and the good news is that there are multiple options for this journey which takes around 4 hours. Check out the latest bus options here with Bookaway .

Air : Although there is an airport in Melaka there is no direct flight to Singapore, and you’re looking at a 5 hour plus journey, so we’d definitely recommend going by road instead.

Where to stay in Melaka

Budget: On a budget, Ola Lavanderia Café is a hostel in the heart of old town that offers great shared and private rooms.

Mid-range: If you’re wanting to be in the heart of the old town, actually staying in one of the heritage buildings check out JonkeRED Heritage Hotel . A family run hotel, we loved staying here: great rooms, really affordable and right in the action.

Luxury: Just a minutes’ walk to Jonker Street, with infinity pool, gym facilities and everything else you’d expect from a 5* hotel, we’d recommend that you look at Casa Del Rio Melaka .

Take a stroll down Jonker Walk

Well technically, Jonker Street, but the sign says Jonker Walk – this street is a great place to come and explore a number of cafes selling Portuguese egg tarts, salted egg croissants, cendol and the famous Gula Melaka Latte. If you’re looking for a recommendation, we’d suggest the Stolen Cup . Great food, nice atmosphere and strong wifi!

Alongside refuelling for the day ahead, the street is also home to some quirky antique and arts and crafts shops.

Explore Cheng Hoon Teng

On the road that runs parallel to Jonker Street you’ll find a number of amazing temples and religious buildings to explore. While the road is called Jalan Tukang Emas its locally known as ‘Harmony Street’ as it is home to three religions: a Chinese Buddhist temple, a renowned mosque and a Hindu temple; all of which you’re about to visit!

Starting at the far end of Jonker Street (ie. furthest away from the Melaka River), you’ll first come across Cheng Hoon Teng.

Built in the 1600s, this temple has been an administrative centre, a court of justice and, of course, a temple itself. One of the most beautiful Chinese temples in Malaysia, it’s also the country’s oldest!

Also, don’t miss another temple just across the road: Xiang Lin Si Temple. Named after a Chinese monk, this village-style temple is very photogenic, so great for a photo.

Visit Kampung Kling Mosque

From Chinese culture to the Islam faith, a short walk away is the Kampung Kling Mosque (Masjid Kampung Kling). Unlike many mosques in Asia which are built on a hexagon, the Kampung Kling mosque is square, made out of wood with a three-tiered roof. There are a number of Chinese influences on the temple: ceramic tiles, curved eaves and colonnades. Even the minaret slightly resembles a Chinese pagoda.

Take a snap at Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple

The last of the three religious structures is the Hindu property, Sri Poyatha Moorthi. The oldest Hindu temple in the country and one of the oldest functioning Hindu temples in Southeast Asia, this temple was built back in 1781 by Thavinayagar Chitty, the leader of the Chitty people, after the Dutch gave him a plot of land in Melaka. The temple is dedicated to Vinayagar and Ganesha, the elephant deity.

Explore the street art

Although not up there with Penang and Ipoh just yet in terms of the quality of the street art, there are some great little pieces that you’ll find dotted around the old town, so well worth keeping your eyes peeled for these pieces. You’ll find some of them easily by walking down by the Melaka River, some just off Lorong Hang Jebat and other pieces not far from the Hang Jebat Mausoleum.

Bonus things to do in Melaka

Meander around the museums

There seem to be more museums in Melaka than any other place that we’ve been before! Or it may seem like that as so many of them are located all around St Paul’s Hill. Whether you want to visit the transport museum or check out the stamp museum, there’s pretty much something for everyone!

Check out the Menara Taming Sari

Not something that we actually did, but it seems to get pretty good reviews, the Menara Taming Sari is a cross between a viewing tower and a theme park ride (albeit a tame one at that). The tower has a moving, rotating viewing tower that takes you from the ground to 110m in a matter of minutes, providing a panoramic view of the historic city of Melaka.

Open from 9am to 11pm, the 7 minute ride will only set you back 23 MYR ( 5.20 USD/4.50 GBP).

Melaka Strait Mosque

A bit further out of the city, the Strait Mosque is perched on a reclaimed 40 hectare island. This impressive mosque has seen a lot of difficulties since builders broke ground in 1996, mainly since conservationists were not impressed that it would be built atop a number of important historical artefacts, like the wrecks of many Portuguese ships. You’ll need to drive or catch a Grab taxi to see this one.

Photo Credit: Hams Nocete

Melaka River Cruise

A 45 minute boat ride that offers a unique perspective of the city. The Melaka River Cruise will take you on a whistle stop sightseeing tour of the best sites in the city. Operating from 9 in the morning to late in the evening, we’ve heard that their night time cruise is a winner.

Not always somewhere that’s on the traveller or tourist map, is the small seaside town of Port Dickson. Known affectionately as ‘PD’ by locals, Port Dickson is actually a popular holiday retreat for local residents, due to its star location near Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Melaka.

While there are a few things to do in Port Dickson – and we’ve listed them below – the main attraction is actually your accommodation! Port Dickson is home to the Lexis Hibiscus resort which has two – count ‘em two – Guinness World Records. The first for having the most overwater villas in the world (522 of them) and then for the most swimming pools in one resort, with 643 pools. The entire resort is shaped like the hibiscus, the national flower, and the entire resort is a must-visit destination in Port Dickson, hence our recommendation. We’ve put a bit more detail on the property below.

But, what about things to see in Port Dickson? Well there are actually a few: an ostrich farm, an army museum, waterfront walk and lots of hiking! Here are a few highlights:

Traipse around Tanjung Tuan (the Cape Rachada lighthouse)

The Cape Rachada nature reserve (also known as Tanjung Tuan) stretches over 80 hectares and has a number of fantastic hikes to enjoy, with some birdwatching for enthusiasts. The reserve boasts two off-the-beaten track beaches: the Blue Lagoon and Pantai Cermin but its possibly the lighthouse that attracts the most acclaim. Sitting pretty on the summit and looking out over the gorgeous Straits of Malacca is the Cape Rachada lighthouse, believed to be the oldest in Malaysia after it was constructed by the Portuguese back in the 16 th century.

Photo Credit: Willy Tan / Flickr

Wander around the Wan Loong Temple

Situated on the coastal road this Chinese temple means ‘Dragon of the Clouds’ and is dedicated to a number of deities including the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yi, and the Monkey King. It’s worth a visit, and is free to enter.

Ogle at the PD Ostrich Farm

Now we might be biased since Lee’s home country, South Africa, loves ostriches but we think the Port Dickson Ostrich Show Farm is undoubtedly worth a turn! You can feed these fluffy beasts, take a few photos or, if you’re lucky, race with them! If you have kids this is a great activity since the property also has a petting zoo with farm animals as well as pony rides.

Where to stay in Port Dickson

There is only one place that you have to stay in Port Dickson, the Lexis Hibiscus . As we mentioned above, this remarkable resort is one of a kind: a gigantic hibiscus-shaped property that offers you everything of the best. The resort has 117 tower rooms and 522 overwater villas, all perfectly positioned for views of the Straits of Malacca. Located next to Pasir Panjang beach, the resort offers you water activities (a waterpark, central swimming pool, jetskis and more), has a world-class spa, it’s own karaoke complex, a multitude of bars and even activities like motorbike riding and archery, which we really enjoyed.

Staying at Lexis Hibiscus is an experience and really why you need to put Port Dickson on your Malaysia map.

Getting from Melaka to Port Dickson

Travel time: 90 minutes

It’s actually not the easiest to get from Melaka to Port Dickson, as at time of writing there were no direct buses. However, we’d suggest that you look into booking a Grab or private car, which should set you back around 150 MYR (34 USD/29.20 GBP).

So today you’ll arrive into one of the most vibrant cities in Southeast Asia: Kuala Lumpur. A city that seems to really divide travellers, who either love it or hate it. And strangely enough at first it wasn’t for us – actually it took us a total of 4 visits on our round the world trip to move into that “love it” category. But with so much to see and do, it’s an absolute must on your Singapore and Malaysia itinerary… and luckily through our trial and error over those 4 visits, we’ve managed to work out the best things to do!

However, if you’re looking for a much more detailed KL itinerary, then check out our 2 days in Kuala Lumpur article here .

Kick it at KLCC Park

So not the longest of journeys across from Port Dickson, but after you’ve checked into your new accommodation (or just dumped your luggage there), we suggest you head out to one of the best green spaces in the city for a bit of a walk, the KLCC Park.

Open from 9am to 10pm daily, we think that this 50 acre sanctuary provides the best views of the most iconic towers in the city, the Petronas Towers. What’s more, they even have a sign-posted walk which showcases the best photo spots to get those snaps of Malaysia’s number 1 landmark .

Visit the Petronas Towers

And of course, you can’t visit Kuala Lumpur without actually visiting the Petronas Towers. This twin story skyscraper soars 450m into the skyline, and is one of the best places to get the panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis.

Although it’s not the cheapest, we think that it’s well worth the cost for the experience. You’ll be whisked up to the 41 st floor to the world’s highest skybridge, before continuing onto the dizzyingly high 86 th level observation deck.

Top tip : It’s worth getting the skip the line tickets , although get them online as these can sell out.

Where to stay in KL

We found Kuala Lumpur a bit of a funny place, we visited it 4 times during our travels over the last year, and to be honest the first 3 of those we didn’t exactly love the city. Although there was some really cool stuff to do, it felt more like a city of shopping malls and construction. However, on our most recent visit, we stayed in the Chinatown area – and absolutely loved it! It’s perfectly located for many of the attractions, has a local feel to it and has some awesome street art!

Budget: If you’re on more of a budget, Rooma @ Hostels KLCC should be your choice, as it offers dorm accommodation with all the luxury of a high-end hotel. Think pool and gym facilities… not what you’d normally expect at a backpackers.

Luxury: Although there are loads of high end options in KL, we particularly liked staying at the Four Points by Sheraton right on the edge of Chinatown: Perfect location, brand new hotel with everything you need.

Getting from Port Dickson to Kuala Lumpur

Just like getting from Melaka to Port Dickson, from Port Dickson to Kuala Lumpur is also not the easiest on public transport. So we’d again suggest looking to book a private car or taking a Grab, which should set you back in the region of 150 MYR (34 USD/X29.20 GBP).

Day 7 – Kuala Lumpur

Visit T hean Hou Temple

We suggest you get up early and make your way to the stunning Thean Hou Temple . This very instagrammable temple is one of the oldest and largest in South East Asia and the fire-engine red detailing and many splendoured tiers are a must-see on your Singapore Malaysia itinerary. Dedicated to the Chinese Sea Goddess, Mazu, this temple is beautiful to behold but also has spectacular views of the city, as its set high atop the Robson Hill.

Try to get there when it opens at 9.00am to beat the bigger tour busses.

Take the walkways at KL Eco Forest Park

Once you’ve got your temple fix, we suggest you head to the suspended walkways and hanging bridges of the  KL Eco Forest Park . Actually this park has a history stretching back to 1906, when the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve was identified as a heritage area full of tropical rainforest. The Eco Park is one of the larger remaining green spaces in the city and it’s great to spend an hour or two on the walkways. Our favourite part was the Canopy Walk, which is a massive steel and wooden aerial bridge through the trees. Keep in mind that if you’re afraid of heights, this might be something you want to skip, or challenge yourself to!

Insider Tip: Make sure you use the Lower Hill Main entrance, not the one by the MRT Station, to avoid some deserted, muddy trails.

Go up the Menara KL Tower

You can see it from the Eco Park and it’s worth a quick stop on your way out: the Menara Tower, also known as the KL Tower. This skyscraper, rising an impressive 450 metres from the ground, is one of the world’s tallest telecommunications towers. You can go up to 276m to the observation deck to see the entire glittering city laid out before you.

Eat street food

Now we mentioned earlier that Malaysia is world-renowned for its food, and you must head to a night market (or two) to try the many foods on offer. You have to try dishes including char kway teow (flat rice noodles with shrimp, Chinese sausage and eggs), oyster omelettes, nasi kandar (of course) and the many pandan and coconut based sweets.

There are many markets to consider – from the famous one at Jalan Alor which, although a little touristy, still has all the key dishes on offer. Or Taman Connaught, a night market running on Wednesdays, Hutong 10 which is in the basement of Lot 10 shopping centre.

Check out Chinatown, one of our favourite areas in all of Kuala Lumpur, for hawker stalls there. While you’re there, we recommend you have a drink at the trendy Concubine Bar which not only has amazing cocktails but the surrounding streets are filled with incredible street art. You can also pop into the popular Petaling Street, a large pedestrianized area full of souvenir and clothing stores, or visit the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the largest and oldest Hindu temple in the city.

Day 8 – Kuala Lumpur

Head out to the B atu Caves

Another one best enjoyed early is the Batu Caves also known as the Sri Subramanair Swamy Temple. This must be one of the most famous landmarks in Malaysia , with 272 brightly-coloured steps of red, yellow, orange, blue and green leading up to the main cave temples. The temples are set within limestone caves dating back around 400 million years, and beyond taking photos on the colourful steps, you can wander the halls of the Cathedral Cave (also known as Temple Cave) at the top of the stairs, or visit two at the bottom – the Art Gallery and Museum Cave.

The temple complex also boasts a 43 metre tall golden statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war. Constructed in 2006, it’s the largest in the world and makes for a great photo of the caves, statue and cityscape.

Insider Tip: It’s best to just hail a Grab, especially if going early (it opens at 06.00am, but you can take a train from the KL Sentral Station for 2.60 MYR (0.60 USD/0.50 GBP) each way. We’ve done both, and found them equally convenient; both take between 20 and 30 minutes to get there. Keep in mind that most of our itinerary for today is walking, so a Grab might be the best thing to rest your legs!

See the Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Once you’re done with the Batu Caves, head back into the city and take a walk around the area adjacent to Chinatown, to see some of the beautiful historic buildings, first up by the Sultan Abdul Samal Building. Set on Merdeka Square this gorgeous façade is part of the city’s ‘Colonial Core’, a network of buildings from earlier times that stand out against all the steel skyscrapers surrounding them.

Take a photo at Jamek Mosque

It’s one of the most iconic buildings in the city, the Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque (also known as the ‘Jamek Mosque’ or the Friday Mosque because it hosts the special Friday noon prayers, jumu’ah). Constructed in 1907, the mosque was the primary place of worship until the National Mosque was built. If you want to move things around on this itinerary, you could also visit the Mosque at dusk – its beautifully lit as the sun goes down.

Walk around the Masjid Negara Mosque

Speaking of the National Mosque of Malaysia , take a 15 minute walk to see it for yourself. This is the country’s ‘seat’ of the Muslim faith and is considering the ‘Mecca’ of Malaysia. Housing up to 15, 000 for prayers, this beautiful mosque is in the shape of a star made up of 18 points, 13 of which represent Malaysia’s states and 5 for the pillars of Islam. Beautiful from afar it’s even better from within: remarkable colours, verses from the Koran etched on the walls and amazing iron lattices. Keep in mind that you can only visit when prayers are not in progress and you have to be appropriately dressed: long trousers and shirts, although they do have robes and headscarves you can lend.

Explore the National Museum of Malaysia

Take a wander down Damansara Street (Jalan Damansara) to Muzium Negara , the National Museum. It features the history of the country and overview of Malaysian life including craft, music and traditions. There is a huge area dedicated to the animals of the country, ritual weddings and a fascinating section called ‘wayang kulit’, which is like a wooden puppet theatre.

Insider Tip: They do free guided tours at 11.00am on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays (English only).

Bonus things to do in KL

We love Kuala Lumpur and there is so much to do in this captivating city. So, in case you didn’t like anything we’ve suggested, here are a few more ideas to add or swap:

Perdana Botanical Gardens

Near the colonial buildings is the expansive area of the Perdana Botanical Gardens (also known as the Lake Gardens). It’s part of a larger park which is over 227 acres, but the 93 acres of Perdana is probably enough to satisfy your appetite for flora and gardens. Make like the locals and wander the many manicured gardens including the gigantic Orchid Garden which 800 species of that flower, or the Hibiscus Garden, a homage to the national flower of Malaysia.

Either within or near the gardens are some other great places to consider visiting including the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park (one of the largest in the world), the ASEAN Sculpture Garden and Islamic Arts Museum.

Highly recommended is the KL Bird Park with over 3,000 birds and some fantastic breeding programs for African Greys and the Malay peacock.

Insider Tip: The Bird Park has free shows at 12.30pm and 3.30pm daily, plus eagle feeding at 2.30pm each day. Opening hours: 9.00am – 6.00pm daily.

Go shopping at Berjaya Time Square

Now, listen: Kuala Lumpur loves a shopping mall and you are spoilt for choice. We love Pavilion and KLCC (Suria), but if you have kids or want a bit of fun, then Berjaya Times Square is the place. It’s one of the first large malls in the city and while it’s a little weathered, it has a huge bowling alley and… wait for it… an indoor rollercoaster! Even if you don’t buy a ticket to ride this 800m rollercoaster its still worth going to see it, as the ground shakes beneath you as it turns circles around the central atrium.

Central Market

While we’re on the topic of shopping, if you want some handicrafts or souvenirs, you can also head to the Central Market (also known as  Pasar Seni ). We didn’t love it (we preferred Petaling Street), but this building dates back from 1928 and is one of the original shopping spots in the city. You can also try one of the hawker food stalls and get yourself some putu bamboo (pandan cakes steamed in bamboo pipes) or  ais kacang , a local delicacy made of shaved ice, jelly, sweetcorn and red beans.

It’s time to leave city life for a place that’s a little more off the beaten track, the small but spectacular town of Ipoh. Ipoh is actually one of our favourite places to visit in Malaysia , since you won’t find droves of tourists but you will find delectable white coffee, stunning street art and so many temples you’ll have to prioritize which ones to see!

Note: We’d recommend you head off from Kuala Lumpur at around 9.00am, so once you’ve arrived in Ipoh you still have time to explore the city in the afternoon.

Do the Heritage Walk

Now Ipoh used to be a slightly sleepy village but when the tin mining industry exploded in the late 80’s, many miners flocked to the city along with foreign expats and migrants. This boom period saw many beautiful colonial buildings constructed in the town, which are best explored on foot, with a self-guided walking tour! You can pick up a physical leaflet at the Tourist Information Centre on Jalan Tun Sambanthan or there is an electronic version here .

The entire stretch is 4 miles (6.4 km) but you can obviously select to do a shorter route, depending on your fitness and energy. The trail usually starts at the old Railway Station, constructed in 1917 (the architect AB Hubback also built Kuala Lumpur’s station), and highlights usually include the Post Office, Town Hall, Chartered Bank, St John’s Church and the Padang Mosque.

Where to stay in Ipoh

Budget:  Our vote goes to the Brownstone Hostel  . Yes it’s a 15 minute walk to the Old Town but this is a wonderful, modern hostel with good showers and a nice courtyard. We took a private room which was very comfortable and quite large.

Mid-range : Best of the bunch is The Tudor Hotel . Think plush furnishing, lovely rooms and a world-class breakfast at prices that won’t break the bank.

Luxury : The Haven Resort is the leading hotel in Ipoh. It’s definitely out of town but you’ll be surrounded by incredible mountains and landscapes with luxurious suites and a five tiered swimming pool to boot!

Getting from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh

Travel time: 2 hours, 20 minutes

Self-drive:  Conveniently situated on the AH2 highway, Ipoh is about two hours from Kuala Lumpur.

Train : There are some direct trains each day connecting Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur and George Town, with the journey taking about 2 hours 30 minutes.  Check out the timetables on the official KTM website.

Bus:  There are a few good bus options connecting you to Ipoh and taking around three hours. We used a local operator, Sri Maju, many times in Malaysia and while the busses aren’t luxurious they are clean, comfortable and quick (while safe). We booked our tickets on 12go.asia –  check out the latest prices here .

Check out the temples

Ipoh has a number of beautiful temples, particularly cave temples etched into the limestone hills, to explore. We’d suggest you start off with the most impressive of them all: Kek Lok Tong, the Cave of Ultimate Bliss. This spacious cavernous cave is full of relics to see but also has a spectacular lake out the back, where you’ll see locals doing their morning jog. Actually we met a friendly jogger while there who ended up giving us a free tour of the temples in the area!

Next up its worth going around the corner (you can take a Grab if you don’t have a car) to Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, the oldest of the temples in Ipoh. This temple has a really impressive archway with gorgeous marble carvings of dragons, plus a wonderful cool garden full of sculptures, perfect for a few photographs. There is also a tortoise ‘sanctuary’ out the back which, to be honest, we hated – you can buy cherry tomatoes at the entrance of the cave to feed them but we found the whole thing pretty inhumane.

Last up in that area is the Ling Sen Tong Temple, which is a stone’s throw from Sam Poh Tong and at the end of the side road anyway, so worth a visit. This is a brightly-hued Taoist temple with some interesting ‘creatures’ in the courtyard.

If you have the time, you could also add two of the other cave temples to your list: Perak Tong Cave and Kwan Yin Tong Temple. These two are a little further afield but if you love temples, worth adding to your list.

Drink white coffee

All over Malaysia you’ll find stores selling ‘white coffee’, a uniquely Malaysian coffee made with roasted palm oil and condensed milk. This delicious coffee originates from Ipoh although there seems to be a tussle between some of the coffee shops, who all claim to have invented this yummy brew. Either way, you can’t go to Ipoh and not drink white coffee.

Our suggestion? Go to Nam Heong. One of the ‘alleged’ inventors, Nam Heong is a vibrant little store filled with locals not just drinking coffee but munching on egg tarts and slurping up their flat noodles. It’s busy, it’s hot but its an absolute must!

Now this Malaysia itinerary includes quite a bit of street art, particularly in Penang, but that’s since the country has some of the most dynamite graffiti in the world. We preferred the street art of Ipoh over Penang/George Town since it just felt so much quieter and more ‘relaxed’, we hardly encountered anyone seeking out the art.

We’ve got an entire Guide to Ipoh’s Street art but, in short, you can find acclaimed pieces by artist Ernest Zacharevic  dotted around the city, most of it focussed on depicting scenes linked to the city’s signature white coffee. The street art created by Zacharevic is more stencil or spray based ‘interactive’ pieces which fuse the art with real-world elements like ‘Trishaw’, his work which has a real-life rickshaw set against the backdrop of a local man collecting garbage.

There is a selection of other works (you can find them in the Google map on our article linked above), plus a large lane, the Mural Arts Lane, which is jammed with magnificent murals.

Now if you loved the street art and food of Ipoh, you’ll probably enjoy the pace of its larger ‘cousin’, Penang. Penang is actually not a city but a region (and an island), with most travellers heading to George Town, the main city. We definitely suggest you base yourself out of George Town, as most of the key attractions on the island are there. Like your departure from Ipoh, we recommend you leave in the late morning so that you can pack in a few activities…

Walk the Heritage Trail

Sound familiar? Like Ipoh, George Town has some marvellous colonial buildings to behold. There isn’t a walking map but you can try to just head around the city to check out major sights including St George’s Church, the Clock Tower, City Hall and Town Hall.

Insider Tip: Fort Cornwallis is usually included on lists of colonial sites in George Town but we’d recommend skipping this attraction – it just doesn’t seem worth the entry fee.

Visit the temples

Similarly, George Town has some amazing religious sites. Head out of the city confines to the legendary Kek Lok Si Temple. Located near Penang Hill, this is the largest Buddhist temple in all of Malaysia including temples, gorgeous gardens, a pavilion and a gigantic statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.

Alternatively, you can walk around the city itself to see Kapitan Keling Mosque, or Khoo Kongsi, or even the  Sri Mahamariamman Temple.

Where to stay in Penang

Luxury:  A stone’s throw from Fort Cornwallis and situated ideally in the city centre is the Royale Chulan Penang Hotel . We loved this hotel – great breakfast, fantastic gym and a central pool with heaps of loungers. You can even see the sunrise from some of the harbour-facing rooms!

Mid-range: The beautifully curated minimalist Areca Hotel is in a historic building where every room has a different theme. That alongside the lovely onsite restaurant makes this a fabulous mid-range option in Penang.

Budget : We like The Spices Hotel . It’s not a backpackers but rather a budget hotel that is in a prime position, right in the heart of the street mural area. This cosy property has all the basics – wifi, aircon – and a lovely common area to find likeminded travellers.

Getting from Ipoh to Penang

Car: It’s about 160 kilometres between Ipoh and George Town, taking just over two hours via road.

Bus: One of the easiest ways to get between the two points is via bus and there are about 8 time options per day. Taking about 2 and a half hours, the busses usually end in Butterworth, which means you’ll need to take a local bus or a Grab taxi to your final destination in George Town.

Check out the latest prices in Bookaway here.

Train : KTM also runs trains from Ipoh to Butterworth . It’s more expensive than taking the bus but takes under 2 hours so is slightly speedier.

In case you didn’t get enough of a street art fix, then you’re in luck: George Town is one of the world’s leading cities for graffiti and murals, so a must for your Penang itinerary ! The Penang street art trend started back in 2008 when the town was listed as a World Heritage site and a number of cartoon steel sculptures were put on the walls of historic buildings. Local inhabitants embraced this new wall art and later, in 2012, artist Ernest Zacharevic came to town and created six pieces, named ‘Mirrors’ for the George Town festival.

This series spurned an entire trend as many local and international artists have produced pieces throughout the city. There are literally hundreds of pieces and, if you’re interested in finding out more, we’ve created a full interactive map in our article: Street Art in Penang .

Penang Hill and the Habitat

Most guides you’ll see for Penang will suggest you head up Penang Hill for the views, via the funicular. And, while its cheap – only 30 MYR (7.30 USD/5.60 GBP) per person – we were a little underwhelmed by the activities atop the hill. However, what we do recommend is that if you go up Penang Hill, you make your way to The Habitat. This conservation project showcases the natural rainforest of Malaysia through a unique treetop walk experience. Definitely budget enough time to do the 90 minute guided trail .

Now there are so many museums in George Town that it can be hard to choose! Some of our favourites include exploring the local Pernakan culture at the  Pinang Pernakan  museum, gorging yourself on caffeine and cocoa at the Chocolate and Coffee Museum , getting unusual photos at the Upside Down House or doing the #1 activity in all of George Town, a tour of the Blue Mansion aka Cheong Fatt Tze

Now depending on your travel time to Langkawi (see below for options on how to get there), you should have some time to explore at least one attraction in Langkawi in the afternoon.

Take the Langkawi Skycab

Our suggestion for the afternoon is the cable car, known as the Langkawi Skycab. It’s in the record books as being the steepest cable car in the world and gives you brilliant views across all of Langkawi island from up top. However, the Skycab is more than just the cable car itself and one of the main drawcards is the Sky Bridge, a glass walkway right at the upper station where you can walk around to see even better landscapes, and take a photo or two.

Insider Tip: Make sure you check their website  beforehand, since the upper station is often closed due to high wind.

Where to stay in Langkawi

Budget : We’d recommend the Cenang Plaza Beach Hotel , right in the action of Pantai Cenang. Just over 150m to the beach, comfy rooms and a budget price makes this a great bargain pick!

Mid-range: The Smith House is a fantastic mid-range choice particularly if you are coming or leaving via air, since its conveniently located near the airport. It’s also near the Cable Car, has wonderful rooms, a lovely breakfast and we personally loved the rooftop swimming pool, which is great for getting some sun. Alternatively, Aloft   is a wonderful choice that is on the edge of luxury – we stayed there for a few nights and give it top marks.

Luxury: Langkawi has a number of premium resorts and hotels, so you are spoiled for choice! We couldn’t decide which ones to recommend so will include three for you to check out: the  Danna ,  Datai   and  Four Seasons .

Getting from Penang to Langkawi

Considering you’re hopping from island to island, there are only two ways to get between Penang and Langkawi: by sea or air.

Ferry : There is a direct ferry, operated by Langkawi Ferry Services (also known as Super Fast Ferry Ventures), that takes you around 3 hours. The morning ferry departs from the Penang Ferry Terminal (Swettenham Pier) at 8.30am in the morning, arriving into the Kuah Jetty point in Langkawi at 11.35am. There is also an afternoon ferry run by the same company, departing Penang at 2.0pm and arriving to the Langkawi jetty at 5.05pm.

Book your tickets here or check out the prices in the handy tool below!

To find out more, we’ve got a comprehensive guide on the Penang to Langkawi ferry here .

Plane : Taking only 40 minutes, there are about 5 flights per day from Penang to Langkawi (all in the afternoon).

For the cheapest options, check out this route on Skyscanner.

Relax on the beach

To be honest, the best thing to do on Langkawi if you have limited time is to spend time on sandy shores, checking out some of the top notch beaches on the island. Truly, you could dedicate at least 3-4 days exploring the many white sand beaches so it’s worth picking one for today and sticking with it!

The most popular is definitely Pantai Cenang, near the harbour and situated by the beachfront hotels (bonus: go eat the Mango Wango pancakes at our favourite café on the beach, Huggin Hippo !) Next to Cenang is the quieter Pantai Tengah or you can head up to one of the beaches near the top of the island, Tanjung Rhu or Sandy Skulls ( Pasir Tengkorak).

More things to do on Langkawi

Not keen on being a beach bum for the day? Here are a few ideas on other things to do in Langkawi:

Take a mangrove tour

Did you know that Langkawi is home to a large mangrove forest? See the mangroves up close and personal on a boat tour – these four hour trips showcase the flora of this biodome but also amazing wildlife including fish, birds and even dolphins! Check out the latest prices and tours here.

Try an adrenalin activity

Langkawi is a bit of hotspot for adventure pursuits – you’ll definitely notice parasailing taking place all over the ocean, you can rent a jetski to go and explore the ‘fjords’ (make sure to check out Pregnant Maiden, the largest lake in the area), or you can head over to the Langkawi Geopark to fly through some of the globe’s oldest rainforest area on a zipline (there are 12 of them in fact!). Check out the latest prices and tickets here .

Visit the Dataran Eagle

Built at Dataran Lang (Eagle Square), this 12 metre tall eagle is one of the most famous landmarks on Langkawi! It refers to the actual name of the island, as ‘helang’ translates as eagle with ‘kawi’ meaning reddish-brown. The eagle is located at Kuah Jetty which is a little out of the way, unless your ferry comes in (or departs) from that pier.

Walk to the waterfalls

If you’re on Langkawi in summer, of course the waterfalls are not that exciting. However, if you do experience a bit of rain then it might be worth heading out to one of the two larger waterfalls on the island. Seven Walls (Telaga Tujuh) is right near the Skycab (you can actually walk there), or get out to the slightly more impressive waterfall, Air Terjun Temuru, a three tiered, 200m drop waterfall located in Mat Cincang Nature Park.

Heading to Thailand? A little-known piece of travel logistics, but you can actually go directly into Thailand from Malaysia, by hopping on the ferry from Langkawi to the small Thai island of Koh Lipe! If you want to know more, check out our guide to taking the Langkawi to Koh Lipe ferry .

Interactive map for your Singapore Malaysia itinerary

Bonus locations to add to your Singapore Malaysia itinerary

Honestly we feel like we could spend months and months in Singapore and Malaysia and not have explored it all, never mind cram it all into this itinerary for you. So, with that in mind, here’s a rundown of the other cities and spots you might want to add to your own Malaysia and Singapore itinerary.

Cameron Highlands

Riding shotgun in a orange-tinted jeep up soaring hillsides and drinking sugary tea. Those are our memories of the Cameron Highlands, one of the coolest (no, really) places in Malaysia. The Cameron Highlands is a scenic hill station founded by a British colonialist, Sir William Cameron. The idea was to act like a refuge during the summer months, as the highlands offer cooler temperatures. If you love tea, then the Cameron Highlands is definitely for you, as you should include a visit to the renowned BOH tea plantation. But even if tea isn’t your jam (like the pun?), there is lots to do: walking in the Mossy forest, the many hiking trails, rose gardens and lots (and lots) of strawberry picking.

Tioman Island

It’s one of the more commercialized islands on the East coast of Malaysia, but Tioman is still a great place to visit. Perched in the South China Sea, Tioman is renowned for some of its diving sites, mainly for the brilliant corals but also the plethora of incredible shipwrecks! You can chill on the beach, head off into the rainforest to spot a monkey (or two) or go to the turtle hatchery to see how the island is protecting these salty sea turtles.

Perhentian Islands

Visions of crystal clear waters, pristine white sands and lolling palm trees? Those dreams can come true on the Perhentians, two exquisite islands made up of Kecil and Besar island. Meaning ‘stopping point’ the islands used to be where you would take a break on the journey between Bangkok and Malaysia, aimed at sailors and fishermen. Now tourism has overtaken fishing as the main source of income, and these picturesque islands offer visitors an escape from everyday life. Other than the stunning beaches, you can spend days snorkelling in the nearby corals, take out your kayak to explore the bays, hike in the jungles or just relax at your luxury resort.

Photo Cred i t: Chris / Flickr

Johor Bahru

Affectionately known as ‘JB’ by residents, Johor Bahru is best known as the entry point into Malaysia from neighbouring Singapore as thousands of Malaysians live in the city yet commute daily into Singapore for work. It’s not the brightest star in the Malaysian tourism sky but JB can be a fun stopping point between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, or even as your gateway to Tioman. The city has a few famous attractions including some temples, shopping malls, Hutan Bandar (Jungle in the City) and Danga Bay.

So it’s technically one third Malaysian, Borneo, the third largest island in the world, is shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. Borneo probably deserves more than just a cursory mention in this piece, and is a major destination in itself, so definitely worthwhile considering your own Borneo itinerary . You can see orangutans in East Sabah, climb Mount Kinabalu on Kota Kinabalu or scuba dive at Sipadan, considered one of the world’s most epic diving sites.

What is the best time of year to visit Singapore & Malaysia

Now the best time to visit Singapore is during its dry season from February to August. However, it’s worth noting that from February to April are the driest out of these months, although you can’t rule out a heavy downpour even in the driest months. With Singapore being so near the equator, the weather is hot and humid all year round.

For the purpose of our Singapore Malaysia itinerary, we are focusing on the best time of year to visit the west coast of mainland Malaysia (there are very different seasons on the east coast and on Borneo). For this, the best time of year to visit would be from November to March, with January and February being particularly great weather from Melaka all the way through to Langkawi.

So overall, if you’re able to pick any month of the year to visit both, we would suggest February as being the ideal time!

What to pack for your Singapore Malaysia trip?

Now most of the year will be warm in Singapore and Malaysia, so light clothing is a must. But what else should you be stuffing into your luggage for the trip?

Here are our must-pack items for your Malaysia Singapore itinerary:

• Sunglasses and suntan cream – no matter the time of year, it’s worth covering up from the sun.
• Comfy shoes – either sneakers for all the walking you’ll be doing or even a sturdy pair of hiking sandals – we love our Teva’s
• Rainjacket – no matter the weather there is a chance of a shower in these two countries. Pack rain gear!
• Warm jumper or jacket – regardless of the heat, many restaurants, malls and especially ferries and busses are icy cold. Bring a warm fleece or top.
• Get yourself a good travel adapter, Malaysia and Singapore use the British style socket. We never leave home without this one .
• Our favourite piece of kit,  the PacSafe , whether you’re in a hotel or hostel this portable safe gives you total peace of mind.

What camera equipment and other gear do we use?

We’re living proof that you don’t need the most expensive gear to travel the world and take good photos. Here are some of our must have items that make it into the packing list for all our travels.

• Main Camera: Panasonic Lumix FZ1000
• Drone: DJI Mavic Air – Fly More Combo
• GoPro: Hero 7 Black
• GoPro Dive Case: Go Pro Housing
• GoPro Case: Smatree GoPro Carry Case – Small
• Packing Cubes: Eagle Creek Packing case
• Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 70
• Powerbank: Anker Powercore
• Phone: Xiaomi Mi 9
• Hard drive: Transcend Slim Storejet 2TB
• Laptop: Lenovo IdeaPad 720s
• Headphones: Bose Quiet Comfort 35
• Wifi Hotspot: GlocalMe G4

So, what did you think of our Singapore Malaysia tour itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions – Singapore to Malaysia itinerary

What is the best itinerary for one week in Singapore and Malaysia?

In this case we’d probably recommend 2 days in Singapore, 2 days in Kuala Lumpur and 2 days in Melaka/ Malacca, or swapping Melaka for a trip out to Ipoh.

What is a suggested 7 day itinerary for a trip to Malaysia?

This depends on the time of year. From November to March, it’s recommended to include Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Ipoh and perhaps Penang or Langkawi. For other parts of the year you could fly into Kuala Lumpur but make your way to East Coast including Tioman, the Perhentian Islands or even over to Borneo.

What is the better option: Singapore and Malaysia or Singapore and Bali / Indonesia?

Personally, we’d choose Malaysia. While we prefer Malaysia for its melting pot of cultures, food and attractions its also far more convenient to travel into Malaysia from Singapore.

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2-night getaway to langkawi.

Day 01: Arrival in Langkawi

Your Langkawi adventure begins as you touch down at Langkawi Airport. We'll take care of your airport transfer to ensure a hassle-free start to your trip. After checking in at your hotel, you'll have the evening to unwind and get ready for an exciting day ahead.

Day 02: Langkawi Cable Car Experience

Morning to Noon - Langkawi Cable Car Experience

Rise and shine to embark on a thrilling Langkawi Cable Car experience. This remarkable journey will take you high above the lush rainforests, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island and its surrounding turquoise waters. Don't forget your camera; this is a memory you'll want to capture.

Evening - At Leisure

The evening is yours to explore Langkawi at your own pace. You can take a stroll on the beach, savor delicious local cuisine, or simply relax and soak in the island's tranquil ambiance. With its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and captivating cable car ride, Langkawi is the perfect destination for a short and sweet getaway.

3-Night Escape to Kuala Lumpur

Day 03: Arrival in Kuala Lumpur

After a memorable stay in your previous destination, it's time to check out of your hotel and take a flight to the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur. Upon landing, you'll be welcomed and comfortably checked into your new hotel. The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace, with numerous options to explore the city's cultural, culinary, and entertainment offerings.

Day 04: Kuala Lumpur City Center Excursion

Morning to Noon - Kuala Lumpur City Center Excursion

Get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Start your day with a visit to the National Museum to learn about Malaysia's rich history and culture. Then, marvel at the grandeur of the National Mosque, and take in the regal beauty of the Grand Sultan Palaces. Finally, don't miss the iconic Petronas Towers, an architectural wonder and a symbol of the city's modernity.

The evening is yours to explore Kuala Lumpur as you desire. Whether it's sampling local street food, shopping for souvenirs, or experiencing the city's vibrant nightlife, Kuala Lumpur has something for everyone.

Day 05: Batu Caves & Handicraft Tour

Morning to Noon - Batu Caves & Handicraft Tour

Venture out to the famous Batu Caves, an impressive series of limestone caves and cave temples. Explore the colorful temples, climb the steep steps, and be captivated by the natural beauty and spirituality of this site. Afterward, indulge in some local handicraft shopping to find unique souvenirs.

Evening - Kuala Lumpur City Tour After Dark with Dinner

As the sun sets, embark on a captivating city tour, experiencing the magical transformation of Kuala Lumpur at night. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the city's renowned eateries, and witness the city's skyline lit up in all its glory.

Singapore 4-Night Extravaganza

Day 06: Arrival in Singapore

Bid farewell to your previous destination and embark on a flight to the vibrant city-state of Singapore. Upon arrival, you'll be efficiently checked into your new hotel. Get ready for an incredible adventure with the Pickyourtrail Ultimate Singapore Combo, which includes iconic experiences like the Night Safari , Gardens By The Bay & Sands Sky Park, Universal Studios , Sentosa Island , Singapore City Tour, and convenient return airport transfers. Your evening will be filled with exciting adventures.

Day 07: Explore Singapore City

Morning to Noon - Singapore City Tour

Start your day with a comprehensive tour of Singapore's best attractions, including the iconic Merlion Park and the vibrant Chinatown . Discover the rich cultural tapestry and architectural marvels that make Singapore a unique and diverse destination.

The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You can indulge in shopping, explore local cuisine, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of this remarkable city.

Day 08: Sentosa Island Adventure

Morning - At Leisure

Savor a relaxing morning at your own pace. Consider adding activities that resonate with your interests.

Noon to Evening - Half-Day Sentosa Tour

Venture to Sentosa Island, an island paradise within Singapore. Explore the underwater world at the Aquarium, glide across the island via the Cable Car , visit the Insect Kingdom and Butterfly Park, and witness the magical Wings of Time show.

Day 09: Experience Singapore by Night

Morning to Noon - At Leisure

Enjoy a leisurely morning to recharge or add activities that pique your interest.

Evening - Happy Night Tour of Singapore

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Singapore. Explore the city's dazzling nightscapes, experience its culinary delights, and revel in the energetic atmosphere that comes alive after dark.

Day 10: Departure

It's time to bid farewell to the enchanting city of Singapore as you take your flight back home. We hope you carry back a treasure trove of memories and perhaps a few souvenirs as well.

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George Town & Langkawi: A 2-Day Cultural and Scenic Itinerary

by Charlotte

April 19, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 2-day journey through the vibrant streets and breathtaking landscapes of George Town and Langkawi. Begin your adventure in the heart of George Town, where the Penang Street Art brings the city's walls to life with its characteristic neighborhood charm. Spend an hour immersed in the creative expressions of local artists. Next, wander through the colorful and lively Penang Little India for an hour, soaking up the cultural ambiance and perhaps indulging in some local cuisine. Your cultural exploration continues at the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a museum that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Peranakans with a stay time of one hour. On day two, dive into the aquatic wonders of Underwater World Langkawi, an enchanting aquarium that promises an hour of marveling at marine life. Afterward, relax on the sands of Pantai Cenang, a pristine beach perfect for unwinding. The adventure peaks with a two-hour experience on the Langkawi Skybridge Cable Car, offering panoramic views as you ascend. Cap off your trip with a visit to the Langkawi Sky Bridge, a majestic bridge that provides awe-inspiring vistas, rounding out your half-hour stay. This itinerary is designed to blend cultural insights with natural beauty, ensuring a memorable experience with each step.

• Day 1: Exploring the Vibrant Streets and Heritage of George Town

Penang Street Art

Begin your George Town adventure with a creative twist at Penang Street Art, a characteristic neighborhood that's a canvas for local and international artists. As the first stop of the day, immerse yourself in the eclectic mix of murals and installations that tell stories of the city's culture and history. Spend an hour wandering through 316, Beach St, marveling at the ingenuity of street art that seamlessly blends with the heritage of George Town.

Attraction Info

• 316, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Penang Little India

Next, let the colors and sounds of Penang Little India enchant you. Just a short stroll from the street art, this characteristic neighborhood is a feast for the senses. Spend an hour here at Lebuh Pasar, where the scent of spices and the melody of Bollywood songs fill the air. Explore the vibrant shops selling traditional Indian goods, and perhaps, treat yourself to some authentic Indian street food.

• Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 8:00am-9:45pm

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Conclude your cultural journey at the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a museum that stands as a testament to the opulence of the Peranakan heritage. Located at 29, Church St, this grandiose green-hued mansion offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved artifacts and antiques. Dedicate an hour to admire the intricate details of Peranakan architecture and decor, and learn about the unique blend of Chinese and Malay influences that shaped the local community.

• 29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Open from 9:30am-5:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Peranakan suites georgetown, east indies mansion.

• Day 2: Aquatic Wonders and Sky-High Adventures in Langkawi

Underwater World Langkawi

Kickstart your second day in Langkawi with a splash at the Underwater World Langkawi, a magical aquarium that brings you face-to-face with the vibrant marine life. Located on the bustling Jalan Pantai Chenang, this underwater oasis is perfect for families and marine enthusiasts to explore the mysteries of the ocean. Spend an hour marveling at the exotic sea creatures and colorful coral displays, an experience that promises to be both educational and entertaining.

• Jalan Pantai Chenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
• Open from 10:00am-6:00pm

Pantai Cenang

After immersing yourself in the aquatic marvels, step onto the sun-kissed sands of Pantai Cenang. Just a stone's throw away from the aquarium, this popular beach is the ideal spot to unwind for an hour. Bask in the tropical sun, feel the gentle sea breeze, and dip your toes in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. Whether you're up for a leisurely stroll along the shore or simply want to relax and soak up the island vibes, Pantai Cenang is a slice of paradise that shouldn't be missed.

• Pantai Cenang, 07000, Kedah, Malaysia
• Open 24 hours，Cenang beach water activities open for reservation time : 10.00 to 18.00

Langkawi Skybridge Cable Car

Elevate your Langkawi experience with a visit to the Langkawi Skybridge Cable Car. Prepare for a thrilling ride up the mountain on a cable car ropeway that offers panoramic views of the island's lush landscapes. Located at Jalan Telaga Tujuh, this two-hour adventure includes a journey to the top where the Sky Bridge awaits. As you ascend, the breathtaking vistas unfold, making for an unforgettable journey to one of Langkawi's most iconic attractions.

• Jalan Telaga Tujuh, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 9:30am-6:00pm

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Conclude your day's exploration with a stroll across the Langkawi Sky Bridge. Perched above the rainforest, this architectural marvel allows you to walk among the clouds for half an hour. The bridge offers a unique perspective of the island and the surrounding waters, making it a must-visit for those seeking to capture the essence of Langkawi's natural beauty. The Sky Bridge is not just a walkway; it's a pathway to some of the most spectacular views you'll ever witness.

• 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open from 9:30am-6:30pm

Berjaya Langkawi Resort

The danna langkawi.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Charming small towns and villages in Malaysia for your next road trip

R oad trip anyone? Don’t fret if you’re on a tight budget but still want to explore and travel. Malaysia is full of hidden gems just waiting to be explored. While you may have done the rounds on the more popular touristy cities like George Town, Malacca and Ipoh, there are still a handful of smaller towns and villages just waiting to be discovered.

These small but charming towns and villages are full of distinctive cultures, sights, good food, character, that certainly deserves a spot on your instagram and tik tok feeds. Ready to be pleasantly surprised? Here we go!

1. Bentong, Pahang Most of you have probably been to Bentong before, a huge district in the state of Pahang and know for popular weekend getaway spots such as Bukit Tinggi, Genting Highlands and Janda Baik.

However there is more to Bentong than meets the eye, this place hides some pretty sweet durian orchards, gorgeous waterfalls, and a aesthetic laid back old town with good food, go explore and soak in the lovely morning atmosphere at the Bentong Morning Market, take your coffee at a quaint shop that has been in business for decades and take a refreshing dip at the beautiful Chamang Waterfall.

Also what is a trip without souvenirs, doný forget to bring back Bentong's famous ginger, soy sauce and durian snacks.

2. Kluang, Johor

When your friends suggest a road trip to Kluang, just accept!

Nestled in central Johor, Kluang has some of Malaysia's largest organic farms, where you can pick your own herbs, befriend some goats and sheep and take selfies to fill your whole phone gallery, there are hills waiting to be conquered, a colourful street adorned with murals and if you're coffee enthusiast a coffee powder factory you are able to explore.

Go early and start with an aromatic cup of Kluang coffee and kaya toast at a kopitiam established in 1938, walk off those calories by admiring the murals and then take the whole day to explore the beautiful organic farms and learn how organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs are farmed!

3. Gopeng, Perak

Everyone associates Perak with Ipoh, rightly so, but have you ever set foot in Gopeng? Gopeng is a former tin mining town, with a laid-back vibe perfect for nature lovers who love exploring majestic rainforests, rivers, caves, and limestone cliffs.

Home to the 400-million-year-old Gua Tempurung, those craving for an adrenaline rush can try out white water rafting at the Kampar River,or hike Bukit Batu Putih. History buffs can learn the history of this town at the Gopeng Museum.

For those who love the idea of camping but are not really into roughing it out, there are many glamping sites to also explore.

4.Teluk Intan, Perak

If you miss the days of old, and love quaint towns then lean into Teluk Intan or formerly known as Teluk Anson. This town is most known for the iconic leaning tower of Teluk Intan, Malaysia's version of the leaning tower of Pisa!

The tower which was built in 1885 for the purpose of storing water during the drought season and to guide ships to the town's port is slanted leftward due to the underground stream.

While there aren't a lot of things to see in this quiet laidback town, the food will make the trip worth it. Go on a foodie adventure and start with some hearty nasi kandar, yummy rojak, and chinese pastries. Cool down with a refreshing bowl of ais kacang at the Glutton Square food court which has been a local favourite for almost 60 years.

5. Kangar, Perlis

The capital of Perlis, Kangar is more known as a transit station for overland travel between Malaysia and Thailand. While Kangar is not some snazzy metropolis full of exciting lights and vibrant streets, it has a charming old town vibe that makes it refreshing to explore.

Because of its close promiximity to the Thai border, most locals speak Thai and for those who stay by the border some even just walk over the immigration line to visit family and friends.

Surrounded by vast fields and farms, you can even get aesthetic photos at its beautiful sunflower field filled with rows and rows of sunflowers located in its snake and reptile park.There is also a petting zoo and reptile conservatory for an educational and fun filled time for the kids.

6. Rompin, Pahang Dotted with natural gems and located by the sea and the river, surrounded by lush rainforests, if you're off the adventurous sort then Rompin is the district for you.

Explore the off-the-beaten path, see beautiful waterfalls, visit orang asli villages, soak in the sun at one of the beaches and prepared to be mesmerised by a picturesque lake with clear blue waters in Bukit Ibam called Tasik Biru.

The district also merges with the edges of the popular Endau-Rompin National Park,the second-largest national park in Peninsular Malaysia after Taman Negara. Covering an area of almost 900 square kilometres, this nature gem makes up a part of two Malaysian states (Pahang and Johor), and is home to pristine forests, majestic waterfalls, and endangered animals including the Malayan Tiger and Sumatran Rhinoceros.

Malaysia Bus News

Everything You Need to Know About Bus Travel in Malaysia

Consortium Shortlist for Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail Project Expected by June

The highly anticipated shortlist of consortiums for the preliminary phase of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) project is expected to be announced by June, according to Adam Mohamed Rahim, an analyst at RHB Investment Bank Bhd.

The announcement rests on governmental endorsement after assessments performed by MyHSR Corporation Sdn Bhd (MyHSR Corp). Earlier this year, seven consortiums, including a total of 31 companies with diverse expertise, submitted their conceptual proposals to MyHSR Corp in response to a Request for Information (RFI) issued in July 2023. The deadline for these submissions was January 15.

The results from the RFI evaluation are currently under review and will soon be presented to the Ministry of Transport and the Cabinet. If the evaluations receive positive feedback, MyHSR Corp plans to move forward by issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to the shortlisted consortiums, inviting them to submit detailed proposals.

The initiation of the RFI highlights the government’s dedication to reinvigorating the KL-Singapore HSR project through innovative financing and implementation models. This effort aims to enhance rail transportation infrastructure and stimulate economic growth across the region.

Among the contenders for the project is a consortium led by Berjaya Rail Sdn Bhd, a 70 percent subsidiary of Berjaya Land Bhd (BLand). This group is collaborating with Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB) and Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB).

In related developments, Rahim also shed light on the upcoming Mass Rapid Transit 3 (MRT3) project, which is expected to launch between the fourth quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025. Land acquisitions for this project are scheduled to be completed by the third quarter of 2024, according to the Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp).

Reflecting on the robust activity in the construction sector, Rahim reported that construction projects totaling RM30.8 billion were tendered in the first quarter of the year. Ongoing negotiations for the Penang Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, potentially worth over RM10.5 billion, further underscore the sector’s dynamic nature.

Progress is also evident in East Malaysia, where four out of 20 work packages for Phase 1B of the Pan Borneo Sabah Highway, valued at RM15.7 billion, have been awarded as of March 22, indicating positive momentum in the region’s infrastructure development.

As the June deadline approaches, stakeholders in the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore HSR project await further developments with anticipation, recognizing the transformative potential of this cross-border infrastructure initiative.

While trains will be superfast, you can also opt for bus ticket online booking via redBus Malaysia. Get discounts and grab the most from operators like Firstcoach , or Suasana Edaran to Singapore. Transtar travel and so much more!

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Follow our news, recent searches, ten killed after malaysian military helicopters collide mid-air during navy parade rehearsal, advertisement.

The two helicopters collided into each other around half an hour after taking off from their Lumut airbase, as part of rehearsals for the 90th Navy Day parade.

Footage circulating on social media showed the Royal Malaysian Navy's HOM and Fennec helicopters colliding mid-air over a naval base in Perak on Apr 23, 2024.

This audio is AI-generated.

Aqil Haziq Mahmud

KUALA LUMPUR: Ten Malaysian military personnel on board two naval helicopters died after their choppers collided mid-air over a naval base in Lumut, Perak on Tuesday (Apr 23).

The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) said in a statement that an HOM maritime operations helicopter and a Fennec helicopter crashed at 9.32am.

According to a message sent by the navy and seen by CNA, the helicopters took off at 9.03am. The HOM helicopter crashed on the steps of a stadium, while the Fennec helicopter crashed into a pool, the message said.

"All victims confirmed dead on the scene and sent to the Lumut Navy base armed forces hospital for process of identification," the navy said, adding that seven crew members were on board the HOM helicopter, with another three on the Fennec helicopter.

When contacted by CNA, Perak police chief Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri confirmed that 10 people had died.

The training was part of rehearsals for the 90th Navy Day parade.

"The RMN will establish an investigation board to identify the cause of the incident," it said.

Defence Minister Khaled Nordin told local media that the helicopters were training for the third time for the parade.

Mr Khaled said there were no other victims involved as the helicopters crashed into a pool and an empty stadium.

Footage of the incident circulating on social media showed seven helicopters flying over the base in a loose formation. The camera then pans to a pair that had separated to the right.

The helicopters collided, the impact shooting out smoke and debris, before falling to the ground.

"The RMN urges the public not to share videos of the incident to preserve the sensitivities of the family and the investigation process," it added.

In a statement released on the day of the incident, Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sent his condolences to the families of the victims.

"This tragedy turned out to have a profound effect on the families of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) and a great loss for the country.

I was informed that an immediate investigation will be carried out by the Ministry of Defense, specifically TLDM, to find the cause of the crash," he said.

Malaysia's king Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar also offered his condolences in a Facebook post on Tuesday, calling those who died "national heroes".

"I also want the Malaysian Armed Forces to conduct a thorough investigation to get the fullest information regarding this incident," he wrote.

Additional reporting by Ahmad Zamzahuri Abas and Rashvinjeet S Bedi

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