langkawi travel planner

Dive Into Malaysia

Perfect Langkawi Itinerary Revealed! 2 – 5 Days In Langkawi 2024

Heading to Malaysia and looking for the perfect itinerary Langkawi? Perfect! We can help in this Langkawi itinerary blog.

Langkawi, a paradise archipelago in the Andaman Sea off Malaysia’s west coast, is renowned for its mystical legends and world-class beaches.  Made up of 99 islands, the largest is also known as Langkawi and is filled with picturesque jungle-clad hills that stretch down to an endless shoreline of beaches. 

Powder-fine sand and swaying coconut trees, surrounded by turquoise sea – rich in marine life and a mecca for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts – all combine to make Langkawi our top exotic Malaysian getaway destination.

On land, enjoy natural landscapes – such as at Gunung Raya, the highest peak – expansive parks and iconic structures such as the Langkawi Sky Bridge and Langkawi Cable Car.  Visit unique attractions such as Underwater World Langkawi and Langkawi Wildlife Park. 

Families are kept busy with these and a plethora of other attractions, while couples adore the pristine beaches, and all age groups enjoy the wide range of water sports and have fun at the outstanding five-star resorts.  

With year round consistently hot weather, excellent dining and exciting nightlife – hippie bars to sophisticated lounges – and duty-free shopping malls, it’s no surprise we rate Langkawi high on the list of places to visit in Malaysia!

Below, you will find the ultimate itinerary to Langkawi! We walk you through options whether you want a Langkawi city tour itinerary, a 3d2n Langkawi itinerary, an itinerary Langkawi 4d3n or are lucky enough to have five glorious days in Langkawi.

You can simply stop following our Langkawi tour itinerary if your trip finishes in less than 5 days when you hit the number of days you have or pick the days that sound best from the Langkawi itinerary 5d4n below.

If you have longer in Langkawi, lucky you! You can take this Langkawi trip itinerary slower with more time to relax by the beach or pool or look for other things to do from our full list here.

Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay depending on your budget and a map of everything included in this Langkawi travel itinerary. 

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.

Perfect Langkawi Itinerary

Remember, this is a full Langkawi 5 days 4 nights itinerary. If you have less days, simply pick the days that most appeal.

This is suitable for a Langkawi honeymoon itinerary or a Langkawi itinerary for family – just take out activities if you want to make it easier or if they don’t seem suitable for your kids.

Day 1: Beach And Relaxation

Today, you arrive in Langkawi. The start of this itinerary is all about enjoying where you are!

• Arrive in Langkawi. On arrival, you can take a taxi or book a transfer here to your hotel.
• Spend the afternoon enjoying where you are – take it easy at your resort or head to the beach.
• In the early evening, head to Pantai Cenang, the main beach on Langkawi, for sunset drinks and dinner. Yellow Cafe or The Cliff Restaurant and Bar are a good place for sundowners.
• Hang around to watch the fire dancers on the beach.
• If you want to party tonight, you are in the right area.

Pantai Cenang

The busiest (and one of the prettiest!) beach on Langkawi Island, Pantai Cenang has a diverse mix of cafes and restaurants, alongside souvenir shops and duty-free outlets. 

This picturesque two kilometre beach strip is fringed with coconut trees and offers awesome ocean views, It is just ten minutes from Langkawi International Airport.  Ever so popular with families, there are many kid-friendly attractions such as the Underwater World Langkawi and the Rice Garden Museum.

White sands and clear waters mean Pantai Cenang beach is terrific for sunbathing and swimming.  Grab a book, rent a beach chair, umbrella and position yourself right on the beach! 

After a relaxing morning, get your adrenaline flowing with a wide range of water sports, including jet-skiing ( options here ) and parasailing .  End your afternoon with beach volleyball or soccer and enjoy fabulous sunsets.

Accommodation varies from high-end resorts to budget hotels, mostly with views of the Andaman Sea.  The area teems with locals, tourists, expats and backpackers, making the nightlife scene the liveliest on the Island. 

Beachfront funky bars and classy lounges offer inexpensive alcohol and snacks, and you’re sure to catch a live band, DJ or cultural performance somewhere along the strip!

Day 2: Langkawi Up High And Down Low: Langkawi Itinerary 2 Days

Day 2 of this Langkawi 2 days itinerary is all about seeing the best of Langkawi quickly! So if you only have time for Langkawi itinerary 2D1N, you can still leave feeling like you saw Langkawi.  

• It’s time to see as much of Langkawi as possible. Head to the Langkawi SkyBridge by taking the Langkawi SkyCab to the top ( get your discounted tickets here ). Enjoy the amazing views.
• Now you’ve seen Langkawi from above, see it at sea level – go on an island hopping tour for the afternoon ( book it online here ).
• Tonight, head to one of Langkawi’s night markets. They change location each night. See the schedule here.

Langkawi SkyBridge

Enjoy an amazing walk around this spectacular 125-metre curved pedestrian cable-stayed bridge – the longest free-span and curved bridge in the world!  Built at the top of the Machinchang mountain, some 660 metres above sea level, and suspended approximately 100 metres above virgin jungle, if you’re scared of heights, this is one to miss!

To reach the SkyBridge, first take a ride on the Langkawi Cable Car/SkyCab to the top station.  It takes around 15 minutes from the Oriental Village at Teluk Burau through three stations to the top. On the way, you get a wonderful aerial view of the surrounding forest, the Telaga Tujuh (Sevens Wells) waterfall, as well as out across the sea. 

At the top, jump in the Sky Glide inclined lift taking you in two minutes directly to the bridge.  Alternatively, walk 10-20 minutes along a steep mountain track to the Sky Bridge.

The SkyBridge’s curved design maximises your viewing experience as your perspective constantly shifts!  

Get discounted SkyBridge and SkyCab tickets here.

Address: Jalan Telaga Tujuh

Langkawi Island Hopping Tour

Probably the most popular activity in Langkawi, island-hopping takes you out around the archipelago, exploring some stunning islets.  Trips usually last for 4-5 hours and, weather permitting, can be enjoyed all year round.

Local tour companies offer pick up services from most hotels at 9 am.  You’ll be dropped at a Jetty, ready to catch your boat.  Choose to join a group tour or private tour. They are very affordable.

There are a handful of nearby popular island-hopping stops including Pulau Dayang Bunting (from afar said to resemble the silhouette of a reclined pregnant lady).  Langkawi’s second largest uninhabited island, it’s easily reached in a 15-minute boat ride.  Take a short hike, via a concrete stairway through dense forest, to a lovely freshwater lake where you can swim, kayak and more.

Also popular is Pulau Beras Basah, for its beautiful beach, great scenery and lush forests, suitable for jungle-treks or an adventurous overnight camp!

Third on our list of recommended stops is Pulau Singa Besar, a wildlife sanctuary home to eagles, monkeys, hornbills, monitor lizards and more!  

Book your discounted Island Hopping tour here.

You can read our full guide to Langkawi Island Hopping experiences here .

Night Markets

There’s a night market in Langkawi on every night of the week.

From around 5:30pm, they start popping up, continuing late into the night or until the vendors sell out.  Each day of the week, a different and designated location opens for a market with makeshift stalls. They sell all kinds of local items ranging from food and snacks, fresh produce, clothes, souvenirs and trinkets, watches, sunglasses… and more!   

Tourists and locals visit for the food alone with tempting Malay dishes and great smells filling the air.  Soak in the friendly atmosphere, sample delicious street-snacks and haggle for bargains.

For those following the Langkawi 2d1n itinerary, you may need to fly out this evening and miss out the wonderful Night Markets… or better still, consider extending your trip for our wonderful itinerary Langkawi 3d2n!

Day 3: Langkawi Nature & Wildlife Delights: Langkawi Itinerary 3 Days

It’s time to get out and about.  This 3 days Langkawi itinerary takes you to some of the best attractions on the island.

• Today, hire a car or driver.  Book your car rental here.
• Start with a visit to the Langkawi Wildlife Park for hand feeding monkeys. 
• Next up, travel 20 minutes to the Kilim Geoforest Park to spot glorious birds of prey and enjoy a boat ride through the mangroves – book your discounted tickets here .
• Now, it’s a super quick drive or walk to Tanjung Rhu Beach for lunch and a swim.
• Refreshed, head off for a quick stop at Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi – book your discounted tickets here.
• If you have any time left, end your afternoon at Seven Wells Waterfall for a lovely trek and swim

Langkawi Wildlife Park

A five acres animal sanctuary, located in the Kilim area – only 15 minutes drive from Kuah Town – this Park has a tropical rainforest ambience.  Discover over 150 different species of animals and birds, from all corners of the globe. 

Focusing on easy to maintain species – no big cats here – the Park has some funny creatures and you’ll enjoy close interaction with daily feeding sessions offered for many of the animals and birds. H ave you ever hand-fed an ostrich?  

From the entrance, macaws, flamingos, crocodiles and colourful peacocks lead you through to the highlight – the walk-in aviary.  Love birds buzz over your head or sometimes perch on your shoulder!  The bird of prey section has vultures from South Africa and white bellied sea eagles from Kilim Geopark. 

You’ll want to arrive here right on opening to have time to get to your mangrove tour.  

Address: Lot 1485, Kampung Belanga Pecah, Jalan Ayer Hangat

Kilim Karst UNESCO Geoforest Park Langkawi

Spanning almost 100 square kilometres, this park is famous for its mangrove swamps, pristine beaches and vertical karstic hills that jut out towards the Andaman Sea.  There’s wildlife galore here, from otters and monitor lizards, to macaques and tree crabs in the thick mangroves.  

Take a leisurely riverboat cruise along Kilim River, around the coast on the Andaman Sea and more with an experienced nature guide, in search of wildlife, visit a floating fish farm and keep an eye out for colourful birdlife such as kingfishers, and majestic birds of prey including kite eagles. Visit caves and more.

We loved this tour as it’s an easy way to see some beautiful parts of Langkawi which are worth exploring.

A standout attraction on your Langkawi 3 days 2 nights itinerary.

Book your discounted tickets here.

Address: Kampung Kilim, Mukim

Tanjung Rhu Beach

Surrounded by evergreen forest, this remote nook in the island of Langkawi is a beautiful bay.  

Emerge from the rainforest jungle to find a milky-white sand beach and calm crystal-clear waters, making it a lovely place for a refreshing swim before setting off for more island exploration.  Note that there are no changing facilities at this beach.

Rustic, cheap, restaurants offer Malaysian and Thai dishes – ideal for a quick lunch. There are also souvenir stalls and water sports. And, across the bay in good weather, spot the mountains of Thailand.

The best place to go is right next to the Tanjung Rhu Resort near the Tanjung Rhu Jetty. It’s not that popular, but so great.

Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi

A lovely farm, nestled in lush greenery with mountains at the backdrop, here you’ll find one of the largest collections of Malaysian saltwater crocodiles. 

Different species, different sizes, with over 1000 crocodiles and alligators bred here.  Try to catch the daily talk show, where there’s a chance to have your photo with a 13ft crocodile…  I f you dare!

Address: Mukim Air Hangat, Jalan Datai, Kampung Kubang Badak

Seven Wells Waterfall

Known locally as Telaga Tujuh, Seven Wells Waterfall has – unsurprisingly –  seven natural falls at different levels, formed by water flowing down from the second highest mountain of Langkawi, Mount Machinchang.  

The most picturesque and dramatic waterfall on the island with a 91 metres drop, you’ll need to endure a short hike from the car park.  It is quite steep, but it doesn’t take more than 10 minutes. Along the way, look out for macaque monkeys, giant squirrels and great hornbills. 

At this stop, you can easily enjoy the falls. There are toilets and some sheltered pagodas.

If you’re heading to the top – a 1 hour walk – you’ll find some natural pools great for cooling off and a lovely way to end your visit following our Langkawi 3d2n itinerary blog!

Address: Mukim, Jalan Telaga Tujuh

Day 4: What Langkawi Does Best!: Langkawi Itinerary 4 Days

Making the most of today, experience nature, ecotourism, spectacular marine life and duty free shopping! 

• It’s an early start on your Langkawi 4 days 3 nights itinerary – before breakfast is ideal – with a taxi to the peak of Gunung Raya for an exhilarating rainforest downhill trek – book your discounted tickets here .
• Self-drive or take a taxi to explore Malaysia’s largest aquarium, Underwater World Langkawi – book your discounted tickets here .
• Walk next door to the Zon Shopping Paradise, Langkawi, for duty-free shopping and lunch.
• Next, visit the peaceful Rice Garden Museum (Laman Padi).
• End your activities on this 4 days itinerary in Langkawi with an iconic Sunset Cruise, with bbq and drinks – book your discounted tickets here .
• Back on dry land, check out some of the beachfront bars and lounges for cool tunes and sea breezes.

Gunung Raya

Gunung Raya Forest Reserve spans over 5,000 hectares spread across Gunung Raya mountain, the highest peak in Langkawi.  Take a taxi in the early morning to the top of the peak and walk back down a stairway of 4000+ steps to the village.  

You’ll pass through dense rainforest, home to many wildlife and birds.  Sheltered by a canopy of old, gigantic trees, listen out for monkeys, and keep an eye out for birds of prey and hornbills.  Spot smaller creatures such as colourful butterflies, caterpillars and enjoy the non-stop bird tweets.   

A great way to start your day!

Underwater World Langkawi

Underwater World Langkawi is spread across almost six acres and is Malaysia’s largest aquarium.  The aquarium is home to more than 200 different species of marine and freshwater fish, including harbour seals, sharks, giant rays and the largest freshwater fish in the world- the gigantic Amazonian arapaima!

Check-out everyone’s favourite section, the Sub-Antarctic with the “penguin-arium” full of cute rockhopper and black-footed penguins.  Make sure you walk through the stunning underwater tunnel tank as sharks and manta rays swim all around you.

Try to aim for one of the feeding times. This is a great, well presented aquarium.

Address:   Jalan Pantai Chenang

The Zon Shopping Paradise Langkawi

Pantai Cenang’s duty-free shopping mall is a massive complex next to Underwater World.  Shop to your heart’s content for jewellery, souvenirs, watches, leather goods, perfume, branded sunglasses and more!  An impressive collection of beers, whiskies, wines and spirits can also be purchased at significantly discounted rates.

Numerous cafes, restaurants and bakeries make this an easy place to grab lunch.

Address: Pantai Cenang

Rice Garden Museum 

This little gallery makes for an interesting visit, with its collection of artefacts, photos, charts and tools on the history of rice cultivation in Langkawi.

Divided into the Heritage Gallery, Paddy Gallery, Herb Garden and Garden of Variety, you’ll learn about rice planting and then can admire views from a deck, overlooking a multi-tiered rooftop rice garden. Give it a go yourself at the Herb Garden by trying your hand at rice farming.

Address: Jalan Pantai Cenang

Langkawi Sunset Cruise

Departing mid-afternoon, available from many tour operators, your trip takes you sailing on the Andaman Sea.  Kick back and relax onboard a yacht or catamaran, usually enjoying a four hour sail with BBQ dinner and unlimited drinks.  Hotel pick-up and drop offs can be negotiated into the deal.  

For those following our Langkawi itinerary 4d3n blog, you will need to fly out this evening.  Try to book a late flight to enjoy the Sunset Cruise before ending this itinerary trip to Langkawi.

Day 5: Finish On A High, Relax And Enjoy Part II: Langkawi Itinerary 5 Days

Today, let’s start with finishing your time in Langkawi on a high! Then, take the foot off the pedal and relax, enjoying some pampering treats and the best beaches of Langkawi.  

• Start your day at Skytrex Adventure Langkawi zipping through the rainforest and climbing over obstacles. You can find discounted tickets here OR have the ultimate view from a helicopter ride here.
• Feeling refreshed, head to Pantai Tengah beach for a lazy beachside lunch and afternoon sunbathing, catching the gorgeous sunset.
• End your day with a treatment at Alun-Alun Spa – book your treatments online here.

Skytrex Adventure

Skytrex Adventure Langkawi is the place to go for thrill seekers as you can zipline and conquer obstacles with 35 obstacles to pass at great heights.

Take your pick of how thrilling you want to go with beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. The advanced is extreme.

Whatever adventure you decide to take, at this park, you’ll get to enjoy the tropical rainforest which is home to over 220 species of birds and also have the opportunity to spot other wildlife.

Approximately 30 minutes drive from Pantai Cenang, it’s lots of fun. 

Book discounted tickets here.

Address: Jalan Teluk Yu, Kampung Kok

If you’d rather something higher without having to climb, consider a helicopter ride here.

Pantai Tengah

Around the southern road bend of Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah is really just a continuation of the same beach.  Together, this is the longest stretch of beach in Langkawi and scattered with chalets and a few of the larger resorts.

Kick back and relax, enjoying the cool island breeze.  Take a swim or snorkel in the calm waters or try your hand at several water sports.

For lunch, there’s a handful of dining options including authentic Malaysian, Chinese and western cuisine.  

Alun-Alun Spa

Perhaps the island’s premier spa, indulge in a relaxing oriental or a holistic Asean healing massage, a body or facial treatment or glam up your nails ready for your trip home!  

Select from rejuvenating packages aimed at relaxing your body and mind, or healing aromatherapy treatments that help reduce anxiety and give you a well deserved energy boost!

Book your treatments online here.

Address: Tropical Resort, Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, Mukim Kedawang

Itinerary Langkawi Map

Find all the things to do in this itinerary Pulau Langkawi on the map below.

Best Places To Stay In Langkawi

The Malaysian paradise island of Langkawi boasts many luxury 5-star resorts with private beaches, but there is something for every budget. This ranges from inviting backpacker accommodation, mid-range hotels with pools to luxury resorts tucked away between rainforest and the beach.  

Whether travelling with family, with your partner for a romantic stay or solo, Langkawi has options for everyone. To help, below we’ve listed a few different places to consider – including a budget, mid-range and luxury option.  

BEST – The Datai Langkawi Review

A sparkling 5-star resort, 28 kilometres from the airport, The Datai is surrounded by tropical rainforest, with the Machinchang Mountain and turquoise Andaman sea on either side. The private beach, four dining options and three pools help to make this our stand out choice.

A peaceful location, within easy reach of the heart of Langkawi Island, the resort has many room types and villas perfect for romance or families. This beachfront hotel even has villas which come with private pools for extra enjoyment. You can pick a rainforest or beach location.

There are also water sports, a health club and many nature activities both for children and adults. There are two shops, included breakfast and private butlers with some villas. The downside is that it is removed from most attractions so factor in taxi rides if you want to explore the island.

It deserves its 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor . This place is just superb!

Click here for the latest prices .

MID-RANGE –  Arch Studio Cenang Review

At the heart of popular Pantai Cenang, this hotel’s location is ideal if you’re looking to immerse yourself in this lively area with activities, shopping and the most popular beach on the island right at your doorstep.  

Across the road from Underwater World Langkawi, this smaller hotel has suite and room options that are beautifully designed and furnished. There are great options for both couples and families. Some rooms have kitchenettes and separate living areas.

The on-site pool is a nice place to relax if you ever tire of the beautiful beach across the road. It is small though. There is no on-site dining, but the surrounding area has many restaurant and bar options with lively evening entertainment. They also do serve a lovely a-la-carte breakfast.

Click here to check current pricing and availability or click here to read our full review.

BUDGET – Adya Hotel Review

In the heart of Kuah Town, this budget hotel has 217 rooms with flatscreen TV, mini-fridges, kettles and ensuite bathrooms with showers.  Basic standard, deluxe, executive and suites are available. Most have small balconies offering ocean views.

The Adya has three swimming pools – including a women-only and a children’s pool – on-site spa and fitness centre (with limited equipment).  You’ll find an on-site 24-hour restaurant (with buffet breakfast), a coffee shop, 24-hour front desk, parking and WiFi.

Do be aware that smoking is allowed on some floors and no alcohol is served at this Muslim hotel.  

The location of this hotel is ideal for exploring attractions such as Eagle Square, Kuah Jetty and the Kuah night market. It’s only a short 20 minute drive from the airport.

The hotel’s facilities are good value and the location is ideal, surrounded by restaurants and a shopping centre next door. Thus, we make this our stand-out budget choice of accommodation.  

Click here to check current pricing and availability.

Click here to see all our recommendations for the best resorts in Langkawi.

Final Words

If you’re looking to unwind on an exotic Southeast Asia island Langkawi is hard to beat. Alluring and idyllic in its natural beauty with mangroves, wetlands, rainforests, lakes and waterfalls, it’s no wonder people return again and again!

Trek ancient rainforest in search of wildlife, relax on wide sandy beaches, partake in water sports and enjoy duty-free shopping. With accommodation available at every level, Langkawi promises you a memorable vacation.

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

We hope you enjoyed this Langkawi 5 days itinerary, perfect whether you are looking for a Langkawi itinerary 4d3n or a Langkawi itinerary 2 days 1 night. You can find more information to plan your perfect trip to Langkawi in our complete travel guide to Langkawi here . Interested in jet skiing? Check out the best Langkawi jet skiing tours here. You can also find our complete list of things to do in Langkawi 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!

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

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

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Langkawi Trip Planner

Top destinations in langkawi.

Top attractions in Langkawi

Other notable attractions

Top searches in Langkawi

Explore nearby places.

• Padang Mat Sirat
• Kampung Kedawang
• Kuala Teriang
• Pantai Cenang
• Pantai Tengah
• Kampung Belanga Pechah
• Kuala Perlis
• Padang Besar
• Kuala Kedah
• Khlong Hoi Khong
• Kuala Nerang

All related maps of Langkawi

• Map of Langkawi
• Map of Padang Mat Sirat
• Map of Kampung Kedawang
• Map of Kuala Teriang
• Map of Pantai Cenang
• Map of Pantai Tengah
• Map of Pantai Kok
• Map of Kuah
• Map of Kampung Belanga Pechah
• Map of Kuala Perlis
• Map of Padang Besar
• Map of Satun
• Map of Thung Wa
• Map of Kangar
• Map of Arau
• Map of Khuan Don
• Map of La-ngu
• Map of Kaki Bukit
• Map of Kuala Kedah
• Map of Alor Setar
• Map of Jitra
• Map of Manang
• Map of Khlong Hoi Khong
• Map of Palian
• Map of Kuala Nerang
• Map of Merbok
• Map of Rattaphum
• Map of Hat Yai
• Map of Bedong
• Map of Na Mom
• Map of Na Thawi

Langkawi throughout the year

• Langkawi in January
• Langkawi in February
• Langkawi in March
• Langkawi in April
• Langkawi in May
• Langkawi in June
• Langkawi in July
• Langkawi in August
• Langkawi in September
• Langkawi in October
• Langkawi in November
• Langkawi in December

Q&A about Langkawi

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

The Ultimate Langkawi Itinerary For Up To 4 Days

Need a Langkawi itinerary but don’t know where to start? Langkawi is a good choice for a getaway with its gorgeous beaches, tax-free products, and food!

While many do go there to stock up on the chocolates and hang out at the beaches, Langkawi actually has a whole lot more to offer.

Read on to find out what, where and how to get the most out of your time in the jewel of Kedah!

Table Of Contents:

How Long To Stay In langkawi

Langkawi itinerary for 2d1n, langkawi itinerary for 3d2n, langkawi itinerary for 4d3n, best time to visit langkawi, where to stay in langkawi.

Depending on your budget and activities you plan to do, there will be plenty of Langkawi activities that you can fill your day with !

If you want to do more sightseeing than relaxing, a minimum of at least 3 days is advisable so that you can cover more ground without rushing around and stressing yourself out.

But if you only have a weekend to spare, here’s a base Langkawi itinerary to start you off:

For this 2D1N itinerary in Langkawi, it might be best if to book accommodation at Pantai Cenang .

2D1N – Day 1

• Start off the morning with a good breakfast of local food at Warung Coffee Langkawi close to Cenang Beach. They have both the best nasi lemak in town and also a range of western food so you’ll be spoilt for choice!
• Once you’re filled up, drive (~4 minutes) or walk (7 minutes) to Cenang beach and enjoy some water sports activities before the hot afternoon sun comes up – Get on a banana boat or go parasailing!

Note: If you stay in Pantai Tengah, you can have breakfast at Membawang Corner – options of both local and western cuisines available; And head to Pantai Tengah for water sports like parasailing, jet skis or a thrilling banana boat ride

Extra activity in Pantai Cenang:

• Underwater World Langkawi –   Learn about marine life. There’s a 3D theatre and an underwater tunnel too. It costs about ~RM30/Malaysian adult and you can spend about 3 hours here (more if you wait for the 3D show)

• Stop by for lunch at the classy The Cliff Restaurant which is not far from Cenang Beach (9 minutes’ drive) and overlooks the sea.
• SkyCable – cable car ride over the mangrove forest
• SkyRex – a 3D simulated environment on a stationary tram
• Oriental Village – sightseeing and shopping
• Machinchang Petland Langkawi – A petting zoo where you’ll see miniature goats, emus, a variety of snake species, miniature donkeys and many more
• Visit Langkawi Sky Bridge

Note: It is easy to spend a lot of time at Panorama Langkawi and therefore, you might want to have lunch there at the many eateries nearby

• Head back to Pantai Tengah (30 minutes’ drive)
• Go parasailing at Pantai Tengah while enjoying the sunset from above. Alternatively, book a cruise and dinner to enjoy the view of the Andaman Sea on a yacht
• Dinner Option 1: Immerse in local cuisine and shopping at a Langkawi night market
• Dinner Option 2: Arang BBQ & Grill (Middle Eastern Cuisine)
• Dinner Option 3: Enjoy a relaxing sunset dinner at Yellow Beach Café where you can get a seat right by Cenang beach while enjoying happy hour on bean bags with live music – come by earlier as it gets full fast
• Dinner Option 4: Go to Kalut Café N Bar to have dinner and drinks as well as relax, unwind and to watch an enigmatic fire show ! They have bean bag chairs as early at 6pm if you want to watch that sunset too

2D1N – Day 2

Rise early to get a head-start on all the activities listed below!

While day 1 covers the west coast of Langkawi, day 2 covers the north-east side of Langkawi. And we’re assuming that you will leave Langkawi at night.

• Option 1 (if you stay in Kuah): Restoran Padang Pasir – a variety of local dishes; this eatery is open 24/7
• Option 2 (if you stay near Pantai Cenang): Warung Coffee Langkawi
• Hike or drive up Gunung Raya to enjoy the sunrise and the view of Langkawi from the highest peak – the drive takes about 25 minutes.
• If there’s time, sign up for a 2-hour boat tour to see the mangroves at Kilim UNESCO Geoforest Park . Or see some adorable animals at Langkawi Wildlife park – you can get up close and pet some of the animals as well!

Note: It’s worth getting up early to hike before the heat of the day sets in. And if you choose to drive up, you won’t see as much of the flora and fauna but the view is just as amazing!

• Option 1: Pia’s The Padi with a view of the a vast paddy fields and hills
• Option 2: Nasi Arab ( Kaki Gunung Cafe)
• Heal your body at the Ayer Hangat Village hot springs – keep in mind it’s only open till 5.30pm

Evening Option 1:

• Take a walk at Tanjung Rhu Beach
• Have an early dinner at Scarborough Fish & Chips at Tanjung Rhu while you enjoy the sunset
• Drive to the airport (30 minutes)

Evening Option 2:

• Drive to Cenang (~40 minutes)
• Do some last minute shopping in Cenang at The Zon Duty Free Zone
• Take the Sunset Dinner Cruise
• Drive to the airport (~30 minutes)

This is our suggested  Langkawi itinerary for 3D2N which is an extension of the previous itinerary albeit at a more relaxed pace.

3D2N – Day 1

Identical to Day 1 for our Langkawi Itinerary for 2D1N .

3D2N – Day 2

Identical to Day 2 for our Langkawi Itinerary for 2D1N , with an option to stay longer at either Tanjung Rhu to get on a boat and go on a Mangrove tour at Tanjung Rhu and have a seafood fiesta at Tanjung Rhu Floating Restaurant & Fishfarm.

3D2N – Day 3

On day 3, you can spend the morning on an island hopping tour from Teluk Baru Jetty , and the afternoon shopping before heading back home.

Note: Accommodation at either Pantai Cenang or Kuah Town is fine since there are island hopping tours that also provide pick up service (there may be additional charges).

Kuah has many options for breakfast in Langkawi :

• Breakfast Option 1 (Chinese fare): Toy Kopitiam
• Breakfast Option 2: Nasi Lemak Kelibang
• Breakfast Option 3: Warung Roti Canai

After breakfast, join a Langkawi island hopping tour – you should be at the pickup point at least 10 minutes before the stated time.

Tours typically cos t ~RM40 per pax or up to ~RM350 if you want a private charter for a group of 8.

More notes on island hopping tours in Langkawi:

• There are two pick up times (depending on which service you go for) – one in the morning (~9am) and another in the afternoon around 2pm
• Popular islands to visit include Dayang Bunting Island (Pregnant Maiden) where you can swim in a freshwater lake, Pulau Singa Besar (live eagle feeding session), Pulau Beras Basah
• If the tour package includes 3 islands, expect it to last around 4 hours
• There are rental charges ranging from RM3 to RM10 per pax to rent kayaks, paddle boats, jet skis, banana boats and parasails at the islands
• It’s compulsory to rent a life jacket if you want to swim
• There are only toilets on Dayang Bunting Island
• There is an entrance fee to pay for Pregnant Maiden Lake (this might not be included in the tour package) – it costs RM3 for Malaysian adults, RM6 for foreigners.

Tips for the island hopping tours:

• There are no changing rooms at the islands so wear your swimsuit and waterproof shoes (sand has bits of sharp coral) underneath your clothes and pack a towel and a spare set of dry clothes to change into after the tour
• Bring drinking water and reef-safe sunscreen
• Keep food out of sight from monkeys
• Not worth renting a snorkelling set for swimming in the freshwater lake (not many fish)

We strongly urge our readers to look outside commercial island hopping tours even if they are highly convenient.

This unfortunately includes the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark Adventure Cruise to see the mangroves (and a lot of local wildlife) too. This tour take s up about 3 hours and costs RM140 per adult (sharing trip) or RM600/ boat for 8 pax.

Because participating in any tour that does eagle feeding sounds like fun but it is harmful to the animal and local ecosystem – the birds will not hunt their usual prey when they can get chicken easily.

For a less touristy route:

You can take a 10 to 15-minute boat (the boats are new) to the quieter Pulau Tuba from Jeti Pelancongan Pekan Rabu in Kuah.

There’s plenty of parking and from this pier, you can also engage the services of a sunrise cruise tour. Or island hop to Dayang Bunting Lake.

The pier is open from as early as 8am and costs RM10 for a return ticket to and from Pulau Tuba. Ask for the boat departure times or boat schedule back to Kuah.

Pulau Tuba is easy to explore by renting a motorbike (~RM20 for the whole day). It’s also a good place to get some fishing on and eat seafood to your heart’s content. Burn the calories off with a jungle trek or swim.

• Lunch Option 1: If you drove to the jetty for your island hopping tour, get lunch at The Fat Frog or at Rao’s Banana Leaf in Cenang, or have an western lunch at Red Tomato Langkawi
• Lunch Option 2 (Kuah):  Tuck into Asian fusion cusine at Kayuputi at St Regis Langkawi

Note: See more options for food in Langkawi

• Shopping at Dataran Lang – visit the duty free shops and take cheesy photos with the huge Eagle Statue of Langkawi!
• Get a quick massage – there are many places in Kuah to get a massag e in Langkawi

• Dinner Option 1: Have dinner at Kuah Town Seafood where you can feast on a variety of seafood in Langkawi
• Dinner Option 2 (Halal): Restoran RT
• Dinner Option 3: Dinner at Jake’s Charbroil Steaks Langkawi for a hearty meal – they have escargot too if you’re feeling adventurous
• Get to the airport (Langkawi International Airport) – ~20 minutes’ drive

This 4 day 3 night itinerary to Langkawi allows you to explore the north-west part of Langkawi Island.

4D3N – Day 1

Refer to the previous itineraries above.

4D3N – Day 2

Identical to Day 2 of the earlier itineraries listed above.

4D3N – Day 3

Assuming you’re still staying around Pantai Cenang :

• Drive north (~30 minutes) to have breakfast at a hidden gem in Langkawi, CoffeeNuts Café – its located right by the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls parking lot
• Experience horseback riding at Island Horses at Telaga Tujuh Waterfall – it’s just a couple minutes walk from the waterfall’s parking lot!
• Telaga Tujuh Waterfall – Head to the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and get ready for a short hike (15 to 20 minutes) to reach a gorgeous view (lower pools) of the waterfalls

Note: The waterfalls have very slippery rocks so wear proper waterproof shoes and hiking gear! And only experienced hikers should head to the upper pools which is about an hour hike.

• Detour to Zul Ikan Bakar for lunch
• Stop at Perdana Quay Lighthouse – to check out the amazing views and take in the fresh beach air
• Join the 3pm slot for SKYTREX Adventure Langkawi (long pants, mosquito repellent and gloves are advisable); The Eagle Thrill course is exceptionally fun for outdoor enthusiasts (~RM90 per pax) and involves rope climbing and flying fox.
• Or visit Crocodile Adventureland – Learn about different species and catch the live shows – there are feeding sessions too
• Or try tandem skydiving – See langkawi from a height of 14,000 ft!
• Continue the drive (~20 minutes) up to shady Sandy Skulls Beach where you will find crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming. This beautiful beach overlooks the ex-prison island of Koh Tarutao, Thailand

Note: Beware of monkeys around the Sandy Skulls Beach, avoid feeding them!

• Dinner Option 1: On the way back (17 minutes in) to Pantai Cenang, stop at Santai @ Kuza & Luke Café for Asian fusion cusine
• Dinner Option 2: Drive all the way back to Pantai Cenang (~30 minutes) and have dinner at Arang BBQ & Grill Langkawi
• Dinner Option 3: Drive further west (12 minutes) to splurge at The Gulai House at Datai Bay for Malay cuisine
• Head to the airport (allocate 40 minutes’ drive time if you decide to have dinner at Datai Bay)

Other lesser-known attractions we didn’t mention:

• Muzium Laman Padi – Learn how rice is planted in paddy fields and even get some hands on experience too!
• Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri’s Tomb) – Learn about the local legend of Mahsuri
• Taman Lagenda Langkawi – Get on abuggy ride around this outdoor museum – this is a large and lovely park with some interesting trees from around the world as well as sculptures

4D3N – Day 4

Day 4 follows the plan from Day 3 of our Langkawi Itinerary for 3D2N.

If you’re trying to decide on the best time to visit Langkawi :

The weather in Malaysia is rather unpredictable at times even if it’s close to the equator, it still has its own “seasons” concerning monsoons.

There are therefore, 3 ways to break up the seasons in Langkawi, mainly:

High Season

This lasts from the end of October towards the beginning of November till April . The weather is considered ideal as it’s usually nice and sunny! Perfect for frolicking on the beaches or going on hikes.

However, that also means that it can reach sweltering temperatures of up to 34 °C! So pack extra sunscreen.

And because this period coincides with Malaysian school holidays , expect higher rates for hotels, transportation rentals, as well as activities in general.

From April to August , travelling in mid season is ideal for those who don’t mind the occasional short bursts of rain. In fact, the temperature is relatively cooler as the temperatures can drop below 30°C at times.

Plus, you won’t see as many tourists at this time (I.e. not school holidays) so rates for accommodations will be lower too.

During the fasting month, there will be many package deals to entice tourists!

Low season is between Sep tember to October and has the highest rate of rainfall. So unless your sole intention is to shop or see the lush rainforest in full glory, you will be missing out on a lot of water-based activities.

But while temperatures will be on the cool side, hiking or cycling could be more dangerous with soft soil and slippery rocks.

That said, it is unlikely to rain all day. The rain usually starts in the later part of the afternoon and on through the night which still leaves you a decent portion of the day to enjoy some water activities.

One huge bonus of going in low season is few er tourists and lower prices overall .

Langkawi is a relatively small island but getting from one corner to the other does take up some time. Depending on where you choose to stay, this can make getting around a breeze or troublesome.

And therefore, you should choose your accommodation carefully. Accommodations close to Cenang beach are usually in high demand.

Best Hotels In Langkawi

1. ombak villa langkawi.

This affordable hotel in Kuah, Langkawi is 10 minutes away from Cenang beach and 20 minutes away from Panorama Langkawi. Hence, Ombak Villa Langkawi is one of the best hotels to stay in for those focusing on beach activities.

Plus, the hotel provide recreational activities such as water sports and eco-adventure such as the mangrove tours and hikings.

2. Camar Resort Langkawi

Camar Resort Langkawi markets itself as an affordable luxury 4 star hotel. It has plenty of amenities here that are worth your money, including a private section at Pantai Tengah and the longest swimming pool in Langkawi with a swim up bar.

You can rent a speed boat to zip around the island too.

3. Bayview Hotel Langkawi

Bayview hotel is a 4 star hotel in Kuah but rooms can cost less than RM200 a night. This hotel is good for those traveling with kids as it is within 10 minutes driving distance from Lagenda Park, Splash Out Langkawi and Dataran Lang!

However, the closest beach for watersports (Pantai Cenang) is about a 30-minute drive away.

Other options for the best hotels in Langkawi .

Best Luxury Hotel In Langkawi

1. maneh villa langkawi.

While pricey, you will have an entire villa to yourself as well as a private pool and large garden area! This makes an excellent choice for honeymooners who have a bigger budget.

There is breakfast as well and the hotel is a few short steps away from Cenang Beach.

2. The Datai Langkawi

The Datai Langkawi screams luxury with its own private beach and accommodations by the rainforest.

Choose from 3 different themes – The Canopy Collection, The Rainforest Collection or The Beach Collection –  all of which have their own types of villas.

Other options for the best luxury hotels in Langkawi .

Best Budget Hotels In Langkawi (<RM150)

1. cenang rooms with pool by virgo star resort.

At around RM120 a night, you will find the rooms to be cozy and the outdoor ambience to be very scenic with a large pool in the middle.

It’s only a 5 minute walk to Cenang beach to enjoy watersports and beach side eateries too. Great for those who don’t really need the hotel for anything else but sleep.

Furthermore, it takes 10 minutes to drive to both Underwater World Langkawi as well as The Zon Duty Free Zone .

2. Sehijau@Cenang

Sehijau@Cenang has standalone single storey houses that resemble traditional Malay houses. If you’re lucky, you can even get deal for a room for less than RM100!

The price comes with free parking, aircond and WiFi. And Cenang Beach is just a 4 minute drive away or a 20 minute stroll.

And 5 minutes’ drive away, you can go to Langkawi Gliders for paragliding.

More options for the best budget hotel in Langkawi .

And that wraps up everything you need to know before planning a Langkawi itinerary!

Our suggested itineraries assume that it’s your first time in Langkawi and you would like to do some water sports and sightseeing.

But feel free to mix and match up days and locations or include more Langkawi shopping opportunities based on your preferences!

• 9 Noteworthy Langkawi Shopping Malls
• 11 Trendy and Tasty Cafes in Langkawi

Similar Posts

23 Things To Do In Langkawi 2023 – Activities and Attractions!

Not sure what to do in Langkawi? Take advantage of Langkawi’s diverse landscape. By exploring its pristine beaches, untouched mangroves, and so much more. Sunworshippers, serial shopaholics, beachgoers, and adrenaline…

Langkawi Chocolate Shops: 9 Best Places For Cheap Chocolate

Score some good deals while shopping for chocolates in Langkawi! This duty-free haven has many international and local brands. You can get them at cheap prices at selected duty-free shops….

11 Best Cafes In Langkawi 2023 – Trendy and Tasty!

Looking for the best cafes in Langkawi to visit during your trip? Langkawi is well-known for its beaches and scenery, but the local café scene is fast catching up as…

9 Noteworthy Langkawi Shopping Malls – Shop ‘Til You Drop!

Visit at least one of these Langkawi shopping malls. And take advantage of Langkawi’s duty-free status! Chocolate, liquor, snacks, perfumes, cosmetics, and cookware in Langkawi are 30% cheaper! Here’s a…

6 Must-Visit Langkawi Night Market – Local Shopping Delights!

Heading to Langkawi for a holiday? Try checking out the local Langkawi night market, or pasar malam, as a change from the scenic beaches or classy restaurants. Although Langkawi shopping…

Langkawi Sky Bridge – Ultimate Guide (Own Experience & Tips)

Is Langkawi Sky Bridge truly a must-see landmark in Langkawi? Why is it so popular and how can you avoid the infamous long queues for the cable car?  Are there…

• WHERE TO GO
• WHERE TO STAY
• EPIC HOTELS
• DIY HOLIDAY ITINERARIES
• WORLDSCHOOLING
• MALAYSIA ITINERARIES
• THAILAND ITINERARIES
• BALI ITINERARIES
• CAMBODIA ITINERARIES
• VIETNAM ITINERARIES
• ISRAEL ITINERARIES
• JORDAN ITINERARIES
• FAMILY FRIENDLY HOTELS
• FLYING WITH KIDS
• BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS
• BEST TRAVEL GEAR
• BUDGET HOTELS
• LUXURY HOTELS
• VILLAS WITH PRIVATE POOLS

DIY HOLIDAY ITINERARIES , Malaysia , MALAYSIA ITINERARIES , START HERE | , TRAVEL DESTINATIONS | , TRAVEL ITINERARIES |

5 day langkawi itinerary – full guide 2024.

Table of Contents

This Langkawi itinerary is a step-by-step guide of the best things to do in Langkawi in 2024. What is the best way to spend 5 days in Langkawi? 

Langkawi is packed with natural beauty, adventure and epic activities . Langkawi has beaches , jungles, hills and waterfalls. However, lots of things have changed in Langkawi in recent years. Some activities have stopped and other new activities and attractions have started. We will give you all of the up-to-date information you need to plan an amazing trip. 

We have tried to include a wide variety of activities including some relaxing and chilled activities and also some adventurous and Intrepid activities.

This Langkawi itinerary is designed to save you time planning your trip. We have tried to guide you through 5-days in Langkawi step-by-step with all the necessary details you need for planning. I have tried to include prices, locations, opening times and top tips to help you make the most of your trip to Langkawi.

Still not sure about Langkawi? Don’t miss our guide on Penang vs Langkawi

TOP TIP for savvy savings in Langkawi

You can make some amazing savings on THE BEST attractions in Langakawi on MULTIPLE ATTRACTIONS using a one month pass. Buy a single pass to access a range of the best attractions – super simple, super savvy and no fuss.

Summary of your 5-day Langkawi itinerary 

Day 1: perdana marine park and dine in a rice paddy, day 2: visit tanjung rhu and take a mangrove tour, day 3: nasi dagang local breakfast & the splashout waterpark .

Day 4: Skycab cable car, the sky bridge and Skytrex high ropes course

Day 5: Temurun waterfall and kayaking 

Map of your 5-day langkawi itinerary.

Things to know before you go to Langkawi 

Before you go to Langkawi it important to know what to expect. Langkawi is one of the top tourist spots in Malaysia. It is a small island located off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia not too far from the border of Thailand. Langkawi have a strong Malay culture, however due to Customs laws some of the restricted items like alcohol are available tax-free in Langkawi.

Langkawi has many of the advantages and disadvantages of being a tourist hotspot. During certain times of the Year (especially Malaysian holidays) Langkawi can be very busy. Therefore, if you are planning a trip to Langkawi it is very important to make sure you book things in advance. For example, we recommend booking ferry tickets in advance (especially if you’re planning to use the car ferry), try to book car rental in advance and get your hotels booked nice and early. 

On the positive side, the high levels of tourism in Langkawi mean that there is plenty of nice food and lots of great attractions to enjoy. if you are visiting Langkawi during and the peak season make sure that you arrive at activities nice and early to avoid the crowds. 

How do you get around in Langkawi?

This Langkawi itinerary has activities spread all over the island. Having a convenient way to get around is very important.

One of the challenges of Langkawi is getting around the island. Langkawi is less developed than Penang and does not have a public transport system. Therefore, it is quite expensive to get around in Langkawi. The main ways to get around Langkawi have to use taxis or to rent a car.

Did you know you can find car rental deals on Skyscanner

If you’re planning to use taxis in Langkawi we recommend buying a local SIM card with data and downloading the Grab taxi app onto your phone (don’t miss the full guide to using Grab in Malaysia ). you need to register your account using your local phone number and then you can use mobile data to order taxis on the go. It is likely to cost between RM15 – RM60 per journey to get around the island (depending on distances). Alternatively, you can rent cheap cars in Langkawi at the ferry or at the airport. Car rental starts at around RM60 in Langkawi. 

What is the best way to get to Langkawi?

There are two main ways to get to Langkawi . You can either travel to Langkawi by ferry or you can fly to Langkawi. Internal domestic flights in Malaysia are very cheap. For example AirAsia flights to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur and also from Penang. If you’re planning to travel to Langkawi by ferry you can either take the passenger ferry or the car ferry . Be aware that the car ferry is actually quite expensive and it may well be cheaper to take the passenger ferry and rent a car in Langkawi. If you are planning to travel to Langkawi during a Malaysian holiday make sure that you booked your transport nice and early.

Top tip: In the past there has been a ferry to Langkawi from Penang. However, this has not been running for a while. 

Use Skyscanner to find great deals on flights

What are prices like in langkawi .

If you are trying to work out your budget for your Langkawi itinerary it is worth knowing a little bit about local prices. Prices in Langkawi are a little bit higher than other places in Malaysia. However, Langkawi is still a cheap and enjoyable destination. You can still find cheap Malaysian street food around Langkawi and there are some budget options for accommodation. 

• Cheap street food ranges between RM10 – RM15 per dish
• Tourist food normally costs RM15 – RM25 per dish 
• Budget hotels start around RM50 – RM60 per night
• You can find many rooms for RM150 per night

It is also worth noting that Langkawi operates a dual pricing system. This is the same all around Malaysia. Typically foreigners pay a lot more than locals (sometimes 2 or 3 times the price!). This can feel frustrating to some travelers. 

On the first day of your Langkawi itinerary visit the Perdana Marine Park . This is an innovative and ethical eco Project. We recommend planning a whole day to enjoy the Perdana Marine Park.

The Perdana Marine Park

The Perdana Marine Park has a wide range of activities. There are several artificial saltwater pools with different types of sea life. In the shallowest pool you can swim with a black tip reef sharks. There is also a 3 m pool with a wide variety of coral and fish. When you visit you can snorkel in these pools and enjoy swimming close to the fish. You can also buy fish food to feed the fish. The deepest pool is 5m and has an artificial shipwreck, a sea arch and a wide range of fish. Keep your eye out for the Giant groupers, clownfish. 

You can rent a wide range of equipment. They even have sea scooters for rent and for an additional fee you can try scuba diving in the 5m pool. You do not need any experience for this and the instructor will introduce you to the equipment and take you for a diving tour of the 5 m pool.

The Perdana Marine Park also has a kids play area, a lazy river with an inflatable boat and an education center with an aquarium. You can buy food and drinks at the Perdana Marine Park. There are also changing rooms, showers and lockers. The advantage of visiting the Perdana Marine Park is that visitors do not cause any damage to the natural coral reefs – so this park removes some of the stresses on natural ecosystems in Malaysia. 

Seashells restaurant

In the evening head over to the Seashells restaurant in the Cenang Bay area. This restaurant serves BBQ fish, chicken, rice and other condiments on the Banana Leaf platter. The most impressive thing about the seashells restaurant is the stunning location. This restaurant is located on a wooden terrace over rice paddies.

Platters range between RM50 – RM100. If you have time, also try and catch the sun set on Cenang Beach. Although this beach is crowded it has lovely vibes and enjoys an impressive sunset view. 

Day 3 of your Langkawi itinerary involved a visit to a very beautiful beach and a wildlife tour of the mangroves. Make sure you pack a day bag with swimming stuff, plenty of water and snacks. Also, consider sun protection for the day.

Tanjung Rhu beach

Tanjung Rhu is one of the most beautiful beaches in Langkawi. being in a slightly more remote location this is also a pretty quiet beach. from the beach you have a stunning view of small island and steep jungle covered Cliffs. It is also possible to do a range of activities at Tanjung Rhu.

For example you can rent sea kayaks, rent paddle boards or rent an ATV. So whether you are planning to swim, paddle or just chill on the beach there is plenty to do in the area.

Just next to the car park for Tanjung Rhu beach, there is a second car park which is at the jetty for the mangrove tours. After enjoying Tanjung Rhu we recommend taking a boat tour of the mangroves. 

Mangrove tours Langkawi

The Mangrove tour explores the Kilim Geoforest Park on the east side of Langkawi. This is a remote, beautiful and wild part of the island. If you are interested in the tropical wildlife of Malaysia the mangrove tour is a must do activity. Mangrove tours normally visit the bat cave and crocodile cave. On the tour you can see wild eagles, macaque monkeys and dusky leaf monkeys. 

To get the best price for a Mangrove tour just turn up and buy your ticket at the entrance. You can get shared trips from the entrance for around RM90 per adult and private tours as little as RM200. The amount depends where you book, which tour you would like and whether you barter.  If you pre-book with a local tour operator, expect to pay around RM120 – RM150 per adult and RM80 – RM100 per child for a shared tour. 

Day 3 is a fun and active day of your Langkawi itinerary. Start your day with an amazing local experience. We highly recommend trying a local speciality called Nasi Dagang. And what better place to do this than overlooking some stunning rice terraces with a beautiful backdrop of jungle covered mountains? Nasi Dagang Pak Malau is one of the best places in Langkawi to experience a local breakfast.

Nasi Dagang is a delicious local curry containing fish, coconut and spices. This lovely local cafe has outdoor seating and a very beautiful view. Whilst you’re here we also recommend trying Teh Tarik which is a local Malaysian tea. The prices here are very reasonable with most dishes range in price between RM10 – RM20. 

After enjoying an amazing local breakfast head over to the Splashout waterpark . The splash out waterpark is an excellent activity for families with kids. There is a wide range of pools, slides and activities. We particularly love the super exciting tube slides.

You can share a tube with a small group and the slides have exciting drops and half pipes. There is also a kids play area at the Splashout Waterpark. Different slide zones open up at different times throughout the day – so plan to stay long enough to enjoy the full range of slides and activities. 

Ticket prices for the Splash out water park: 

• Children below 90cm: FREE
• Children 90cm – 12 years old: RM55
• Adults 13 – 59 years old: RM75
• Senior Citizens (60 and over): RM40

Day 4: Skycab cable car, the Skybridge and Skytrex high ropes course

Day 4 of your Langkawi itinerary allows you to see Langkawi from a different perspective. One day 4 we recommend riding the cable car, seeing the Skybridge and if you’re feeling brave try a high ropes course. It is worth being aware that these are the most popular attractions in Langkawi and can get very busy. Be prepared for some waiting. in order to minimize waiting times and avoid big queues we recommend arriving nice and early. 

The skycab cable cars

Start off nice and early on the Skycab cable car. Aim to arrive 30 minutes before opening time. The cable cars open at 9.30am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and at 10am for the rest of the week. 

The cable cars lead up Machincang Mountain and afford breathtaking views over the oceans and jungle covered hills of Langkawi. At the top of the cable cars you can walk around 10 minutes to visit the Skybridge (this costs RM6 for adults and RM4 for children). There is a Skyglide cabin – an alternative to the walk. This costs RM16 and the queues can get pretty long. 

You can normally buy package tickets which include additional experiences such as Skydome, Skyrex and the 3D art museum. Cable car (Skycab) Packages range between RM45 – RM120 per person. Looking for something unique? You can ride the glass bottom gondola for RM105 (roughly £20) Private gondolas cost around RM550

TOP TIP: You can also book packages in advance online and you will be given an arrival time – you still need to queue but this can reduce waiting times. 

Skytrex high ropes

After enjoying the cable car and Skybridge visit the Skytrex high ropes course. This is an obstacle course suspended in the canopy of the jungle. The Skytrex high ropes course includes bridges, balancing activities, bars, suspended tunnels and ziplines. It costs around RM80 – RM100 depending on which package you choose. You can book online for discounts. Packages take around 2 – 3 hours. Skytrex is open daily from 9am – 3pm. 

Day 5 of your Lanka itinerary involves a visit to a very impressive waterfall with an opportunity to swim in the plunge pool and also no sea kayaking. we recommend packing a day bag including swimming kit, snacks and plenty of water also remember to bring some protection.

Temurun waterfall

Start the day off with a visit to the impressive Temurun waterfall. This waterfall is located on the North coast of Langkawi. It is free to visit and there is a small car park very close to the Waterfall. From the car park you need to walk around 10 minutes to the waterfall, the final section of path is pretty steep and challenging – therefore we recommend being careful and making sure you are wearing appropriate walking shoes. The waterfall itself is very impressive with a beautiful deep plunge pool at the bottom. Many people paddle and swim in the plunge pool. This really is exhilarating and pretty cold too! 

Sea kayaking

After enjoying the waterfall, head East along the North coast of Langkawi to Tanjung Rhu (this is the beach you visited on day 1 of this Langkawi itinerary). At this beach you can rent a sea kayak. A double sea kayak costs RM50 per hour and a single kayak costs RM30 per hour. 

If you do plan to sea kayak we recommend being very cautious. Only do activities on the ocean that you feel sufficiently confident and competent to do safely. Always wear a life jacket and make sure the water is reasonably calm and safe for kayaking. If you feel unsure we recommend asking for a local guide or instructor to accompany you. In the area you may also be interested in visiting Scarborough fish and chips. This is a beach front restaurant serving English style fish and chips with an epic sea view. Prices are quite high – but this is a nice experience if you have time and don’t mind paying a little more for your meal. 

What are the best places to stay for this Langkawi itinerary? 

Langkawi has an excellent range of hotels to choose from. Due to the touristy nature of Langkawi it is harder to find budget hotels. However, if you’re planning to splash out on an awesome holiday there are some incredible hotels and resorts in Langkawi. Resorts with private pools are a big deal in Langkawi.  Here are our top pick hotels and resorts for this Langkawi itinerary…

Shell Out Beach Resort (Cenang Bay)

Shell Out beach resort is the best budget hotel in Langkawi. Rooms are clean and well equipped and there is also an outdoor swimming pool on site. We are particularly impressed with the location of this hotel. It is located right in the center of Cenang bay which is the main tourist hub in Langkawi. 

The Four Seasons resort (Tanjung Rhu)

Located on the stunning North Coast of Langkawi this impressive resort offers luxurious decadent accommodation in paradise. Everything about the Four Seasons resort is impressive. They have an amazing restaurant serving fresh delicious food. There is also a very impressive range of suites and villas to meet everyone’s needs. 

The Datai Langkawi (Datai beach)

If you are attracted to the natural beauty of the tropical jungle we recommend a stay at the Datai Langkawi Resort. This luxurious 5-star resort offers beautiful villas immersed in the jungle. If you’re looking for a private pool villa in the rainforest, this is the best choice for you. 

The Ritz Carlton Langkawi

Ritz-Carlton is normally a name associated with city glitz and glam. However, we think they have absolutely nailed their Langkawi resort. We love the private pool villas with breathtaking ocean views. This resort offers the comfort and luxury of your own home in paradise. 

Ambong Pool Villas

If you’re hoping to stay in private pool villas with great views at competitive prices check out the Ambong pool villas. These villas are super stylish and enjoy views of jungle, hills and ocean. Seriously, check out the pictures – you will be amazed what you can get here. 

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• Privacy Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. More information about our Privacy Policy

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

More information about our Privacy Policy

9 Best Things To Do in Langkawi (3-Day Travel Guide)

Langkawi: an archipelago in northern Malaysia made up of 99 paradise islands. The main island of Langkawi has so much to offer. Spend up to a week on this island, experiencing its stunning beaches, islands, and boat trips. Dig deeper into Langkawi’s adventurous side by exploring glorious waterfalls, viewpoints, dense jungle, and lush mangroves – home to many species of wildlife. The archipelago is a must-visit on your Malaysia travel route. Here are 3 days filled with the best things to do in Langkawi!

Day 1 – Langkawi from above

‘Lang kawi’ means ‘eagle red’, as the island of Langkawi is famous for the many red-brown eagles living here. It’s hard not to spot them during your time on the island. What better way to start your time in Langkawi than by seeing it from a birds-eye view? 

1. Langkawi Sky Bridge

The Langkawi Sky Bridge is a truly astonishing experience. Experience the world’s steepest cable car, taking you up to 660 meters above sea level, where the bridge is located. 

Walk across the beautifully constructed bridge, suspended between two peaks, and see panoramic views across the jungle and ocean. One of the special features is the shape of the bridge, providing a change of scenery from every viewpoint. If there is one thing you should do in Langkawi, it should be to visit this place!

Here are all your hotel options in Langkawi.

The internationally famed Langkawi Sky Bridge attracts travelers from all over the world. It is highly recommended to visit the bridge when it opens at 9 AM. Note: Strong wind speeds sometimes force the sky bridge to close down for a few hours. 

Price Langkawi Sky Bridge

Glass bottomed gondola – RM105  (~25.5 USD) Standard gondola – 85 MYR (~21 USD)

Get your tickets or tour online here

2. Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh)

Near to the top of the Sky Bridge is the Seven Wells Waterfall. The most impressive waterfall on the island gets its name from the seven pools the fall creates at different levels.

There are a few different routes you can take to reach the falls, depending on whether you prefer a shorter or longer hike, but if you can’t make it to the falls, you can also see it from the cable car on your way up to the sky bridge.

3. Relax at Pantai Cenang

After a busy day, chill and see the sunset at one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Pantai Cenang is well located on the west side of the island, where most cafes/restaurants/music bars are located. The long stretch of white sand spans for 2km and is the most popular beach on the island, which makes for a lively, fun atmosphere. 

Hotels in Langkawi 😴

4. Night market (different part of the island every day) 

When the night has fallen, the night markets open their doors. Langkawi has a different market every evening, at a different location, of a different specialty. It’s a great way to try some traditional Malaysian foods and get the vibe of the locals, as they cook and sell. The markets use a lot of plastic, so bring your own reusable bags and containers to help reduce single-use plastic (click for more tips). These are the market locations per evening:

• Mon: Ulu Melaka Market
• Tue: Kedawang Market
• Wed: Kuah Night Market
• Thu: Temoyong Night Market
• Fri: Ayer Hangat Night Market
• Sat: Kuah Night Market
• Sun: Padang Matsirat Night Market

Day 2 – Discover Langkawi by motorbike

Langkawi is a fairly big island that has lots to explore. Rent a motorbike to easily get to most parts of the island within 30/40 minutes. 

Tip: If you would rather not drive a motorbike, it is also possible to book a private island tour and create your own itinerary.

See the 2-week Malaysia Travel Route

5. Tanjung Rhu beach

After breakfast, make your way to the northern tip of Langkawi. Tanjung Rhu is a remote beach sandwiched between the lush jungle and the Andaman Sea. This area is much quieter than other parts of Langkawi and hosts only a few exclusive resorts. A little piece of heaven!

6. Cruising Langkawi

From north to south, east to west, you will find a variety of beaches and landscapes on Langkawi. Cruise with your motorbike around the island, along the rice paddies and white-sand beaches. 

Langkawi is a safe island to drive around on your own and all main roads are very well maintained for traffic.

7. Langkawi Mangrove tour

Langkawi’s northeast coastline is covered with dense mangrove forest and is incredibly important for the island’s ecosystem. The Mangrove is a UNESCO Global Geopark, in other words: a protected area that can only be visited by taking a boat tour. A mangrove tour is a great way to learn about plants and wildlife and how they all work together in the ecosystem. 

Highly experienced guides will take you by boat through the mangroves and explain why these areas are so crucial for the island, before finishing at the stunningly peaceful crystal pool.

Book your mangrove tour in advance

Two things we learned that day:

• Mangrove forests act as a barrier for waves. 
• There are almost no mosquitoes on the island because of the bats that eat insects. 

Day 3 – Adventure & Chill

Get your adrenaline pumping by zipping across the 12 zip lines in the Langkawi jungle. The longest zipline of Langkawi is located at the foot of the Seven Wells Waterfall. It gives a spectacular view of both the waterfall and jungle.

Book your zipline experience here

9. Sunset boat tour

One of the most popular things to do in Langkawi is to take one of the many boat tours that are on offer around the island. A range of cruises is available, such as island-hop on and off cruises, luxury sunset cruises, and mangrove tours.

A hop-on and off cruise allows you to see some of the biodiverse waters and islands surrounding Langkawi, freshwater lakes, and islands famed for their corals and rich marine life.

Be aware that the corals are protected at the moment in Langkawi due to excessive coral bleaching, so make sure to only swim where instructed and never touch the corals. 

Opt for a private tour if you want to be flexible in your itinerary and avoid the crowds of travelers that may also be visiting these places on the standard island hopping tours.

One of the top sunset tours in Langkawi is with Captain Eva on the Damai Indah . See the legendary Langkawi sunset whilst afloat on the ocean, take a dip at dusk, and eat incredible food at sea.

Things not to do on Langkawi

There are, sadly, a few popular activities on Langkawi that aren’t ethical. The first is to visit a crocodile farm. It may seem a credible place for the animals to live, but the crocodiles are used in stunt shows for the entertainment of travelers.

The second activity is to feed the eagles (normally a part of the island hopping tour). Travelers are encouraged to feed the eagles chicken skin, which is not a part of their natural diet, resulting in an imbalance of the food chain that causes damage to the ecosystem. Never support activities that use animals in this way and trust your instincts as to which activities may be inhumane.

Tip: Book onto a mangrove tour instead, where you can see beautiful birds and other wildlife in their natural environment, without causing them damage through feeding.

Getting to Langkawi

Although Langkawi is an island at the northernmost point of Malaysia, there are good transport connections. There is an airport with regular flights from Kuala Lumpur and other destinations in Malaysia.

A popular method of travel is to first visit Penang before taking the ferry across to Langkawi. The journey is about 2-3 hours, but it is worth checking the weather, as during the monsoon season, the crossing can be rough. Note: Since 2020, the ferry from Penang to Langkawi has stopped running and has yet to resume. For now, the only way to get there is by plane.

Get your Super Fast Ferry tickets here (search for a date to see ferries)

Getting around

Once on the island of Langkawi, you can easily make your way around the island via Grab (taxi app) or public taxi. If you’d rather have more flexibility in your journeys, there are plenty of places to hire a motorbike around the island. 

With a car, you can cover the most distance and have greater freedom and flexibility on your trip.

We recommend to rent a car in Malaysia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Langkawi to Koh Lipe, Thailand

A popular next destination after Langkawi is the paradise island, Koh Lipe, in Thailand. A two-hour ferry ride gets you to the southernmost island of Thailand .

Get your ferry tickets here

Restaurants in Langkawi

There is a wide selection of restaurants spread over the island. A mix of Malay and Middle Eastern cuisine are most common. These were our favorites:

• Yasmin Syrian Restaurant
• The Loaf Bakery & Bistro
• Arts Cafe Langkawi
• Haroo Korean Restaurant
• Night markets

Where to stay in Langkawi

Langkawi is a large island and offers many options for accommodation. Stay close to Cenang Beach so you’re close to all the restaurants, or at the north coast to have a more secluded experience away from the crowd.

Best time to visit Langkawi

Weather-wise, the best time to visit Langkawi is between January and March, when it is the dry season. However, this will also be the peak tourist season.

November to December and April to August can have a few drops of rain, but there will be fewer tourists.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Malaysia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

9 Best Things To Do in Ipoh, Malaysia

Malaysia travel guide: tips for the ultimate itinerary, 15 things to do in kuala lumpur (3-day guide).

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Thanks for the effort of sharing your experience. Appreciate it much. Saved for future reference!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

The Island Drum

Southeast Asia based travel blog and information source for Langkawi, Malaysia and the surrounding areas.

My Perfect 4 Days in Langkawi Itinerary

December 15, 2023 by Vanessa Workman 48 Comments

Need some help planning your 4 days in Langkawi? Langkawi itinerary advice is a dime a dozen these days. Which is a good thing when it comes to planning a Langkawi holiday. Especially if time is limited. Nothing worse than missing something you could have seen or done had you only known about it. Despite Langkawi’s often ‘sleepy island’ persona, a Langkawi itinerary of 4 days will keep you plenty busy. I would personally recommend at least 7 to 10 days, to truly get a feel for the archipelago and get into the island groove. But if a long weekend is pretty much all you’ve got? Here is my take on a 4 days in Langkawi itinerary. Updated Dec 2023

Like any popular destination, new arrivals to Langkawi will immediately be bombarded with brochures and billboards touting redundant information on the most ‘popular’ Langkawi sights and attractions. Some of those folks simply have large marketing budgets, thus the loudest voices. Are they truly ‘not-to-be-missed’? Probably not. Especially considering how much attention they are trying to get. Or at the very least they have a more popular competitor lurking in the shadows. A competitor who may well be able to pass their advertising savings to their customers by offering lower prices across the board. Bet you never thought of that eh?

But I digress. Let’s cut to the chase with my mix-n-match 4-day Langkawi itinerary samples. Without including arrival and departure days, because no one wants to hit the ground running, am I right? And on your last day, you will most likely be hugging a palm tree wishing you didn’t have to leave. So, let’s just make the most of those 4 full days in between, shall we?

Day 1: Langkawi Itinerary

Oriental village panorama cable car & sky bridge seven wells waterfall field of burnt rice sunset cruise.

On day one, first time visitors are typically ready to head to Langkawi’s top sightseeing venues. Conveniently, both the Panorama Cable Car (Sky Cab) AND Sky Bridge are both located at Oriental Village in Machinchang Geoforest Park . You will want to get an early start and beat the crowds, because these two sightseeing stars are very popular. There will be plenty of local cafes and restaurants along the way to grab a quick breakfast or you can explore the many food options available at the village itself.

Your eyes may glaze over at the mere thought of a tourist hot spot, but trust me, you must go there! It is truly a not-to-be-missed! And the sooner you go the better as it can be weather dependent. Don’t put this stop off until the end of your trip. If it looks like a sunny day, go for it, because you never know what the weather may be like tomorrow.

If you have kids in tow, take advantage of Oriental Village’s money saving ticket packages, because there is a lot of extra fun to be had at Oriental Village . I recommend getting a package that includes the Art in Paradise 3D Museum because it’s an excellent additional. Do note that there is no entry fee for the village itself, only for the various activities. You can window shop and people watch to your heart’s desire for free.

Are you a waterfall fan? If you are, then just up the road from Oriental Village is Seven Wells (Telaga Tujuh) Waterfall . A short (ish) walk up from the parking lot and you will immediately see the photo-worthy main waterfall. It’s a further trek up the steep jungle stairs to the top, where there are several pools to swim in, as well as toilets and a changing room.

If you do opt to head to the top and hang out a bit, you will eat up your sightseeing time, so keep that in mind. You can always come back another day, when you do your around the island tour. No entry fee is required at Seven Wells, however there is a small parking fee for cars and motorbikes.

There are a few places to eat adjacent to the Seven Wells parking lot, including fresh coconut stalls and a mini mart. Prefer a picturesque waterfront lunch option? Head back to Perdana Quay and you will find a diverse selection of restaurants along the Telaga Harbour boardwalk .

Alternatively, you can beeline to Padang Matsirat , home of the Field of Burnt Rice , where you will find an abundance of local eateries, food stalls and souvenir shops. (Just tell your taxi, “Field of Burnt Rice”) It is also a perfect opportunity to try a bowl of famous Laksa at nearby Laksa Kaw or cool off with a tasty Cendol or ABC at Warung Kak Imah (both are nearby on the main road). The Field of Burnt Rice is down the small road in the back of the parking lot. It is just a small house and a memorial plaque, but it’s worth a stop by just for a brief, but significant, bit of insight into Langkawi’s history.

To get to the small historic site, you will need to pass through a small building filled with various souvenir vendors. Don’t walk too fast because there are some excellent deals to be had on batik, t-shirts and local snacks.

Think your day is done yet? Nope, not yet! A Sunset Cruise would be an excellent wrap up to your first day in Langkawi. Tropical Charters offers a very fun 3-hour sunset cruise aboard their trimaran, Seasation. Daily departures are at 5pm sharp for a cruise around the waterfront. Inclusive of free-flow cocktails and mocktails, a salt water Jacuzzi, on board BBQ buffet and a glorious sunset. They have music too! And the Seasation’s spacious deck is the perfect place to show off your island dance moves or relax under the starry evening skies.

*Alternative adventure activity for Day 1: Island Horses Trail Ride

My Two Cents: *If you don’t have your own transportation, you will have no problem getting a taxi or Grab Car to and from the Pantai Kok/ Oriental Village area. So, unless you are flush with cash, there is usually no need to have a taxi wait for you. *Be sure to bring swim wear, towel or a change of clothes, in case you find the waterfalls irresistible. Actually, you should always be prepared for a quick dip during your 4 days in Langkawi because after all you are on an island. *And please, don’t feed the monkeys! It makes them more dependent on humans for food, but they can also bite. That cute photo is not worth a trip to the emergency room.

Day 2: Langkawi Itinerary

Mangrove tour (includes lunch) malaysia cultural dinner show or nature cycling tour wet market sunset mangrove tour (includes dinner).

Day two’s Langkawi itinerary options come with a pick up from your hotel or guest house. You’re on your own for breakfast, but by now you have probably already sourced something near your accommodation. Better yet, grab something you can eat utensil-free or can save for a snack later, because today is Mangrove Tour day with Dev’s Adventure Tours!

Langkawi has loads of mangroves and provides an excellent opportunity to see a wide range of diverse flora and fauna. From swimming monkeys, otters, and monitor lizards to snakes and bats. And since over 200 species of birds call Langkawi home, you will see a few of the mangrove bird regulars as well. The 5+ hour mangrove tour generally starts in the morning (not including your pick-up time).

The tour includes a quiet cruise through the waterways, a visit to a bat filled cave and if time allows a quick stop at a secluded beach. All the while observing nature at its best, along the muddy banks and various limestone formations. Your guide will share his or her vast knowledge with you along the way and a delicious local lunch is also included, as is water.

Now, just for the record, there are mangrove tours and there are mangrove tours. The reason I recommend Dev’s Adventure Tours for your mangrove excursion is that the tour is not only affordable, but it comes with a licensed, knowledgeable (and passionate) naturalist. ‘Some’ mangrove tours are basically boat rides through the mangroves with an occasional finger point at wildlife.

Trust me on this one, mangroves can be quite fascinating and you will want to get the most from of your mangrove experience. Dev’s is also one of the few tour companies who will not cancel a trip due to the ‘boat not being full’. Shared ‘group tours’ leave as scheduled with (as of 2022) a minimal of four people. Please double check with them on that, as the minimal number may vary, depending on the tour.

You will be pleasantly pooped after your adventures in the mangroves. And a little down time poolside or at a beach near your hotel would be an excellent way to recharge before dinner.

The Aseania Resort and Spa has a Malaysia Cultural Show and buffet dinner four nights a week that I can highly recommend. It is one of Langkawi’s not-so-well-known gems, if I may say so myself. The venue is poolside with a backdrop to an adjacent rainforest and it all looks quite magical throughout the evening. A full buffet allows guests to try generous selections of local foods, from satay to fresh seafood and all the non-alcoholic beverages you desire. Alcoholic drinks are available, but are sold separately. *Updated Dec 2023-  Cultural Show not resumed yet…

The show itself consists of traditional dancing, music and fire twirling, performed by local professionals who wow the crowds with their talent. On stage photo ops are too fun to pass up, so don’t be shy when they invite you on stage!

If a leisurely bicycle ride through the countryside sounds enticing, then option two for the Day 2 agenda could allow you the best of both sightseeing worlds. The Nature Cycling Tour , offered by Dev’s Adventure Tours , typically has a morning tour or an afternoon tour; 8:30am or 3:30pm. If you take the morning cycling tour, you will have plenty of time later to wrap up your day with Dev’s late afternoon Sunset Mangrove Tour .

The Nature Cycling Tour is inclusive of transportation and water. The tour is a 3-4 hour leisurely ride through a fishing village and several kampungs (villages). Wildlife and nature spotting along the way come with narratives from your accompanying naturalist who will be happy to answer any questions you have about nature, wildlife and local culture. A stop at the wet market is usually on the agenda as well as a visit to Buffalo Park , where you will get to sample ice cream made from Water Buffalo milk. It is delicious by the way and the Water Buffalo are adorable. *Buffalo Park closed January 2020

After the cycling adventure, you will have plenty of time to head to the beach for lunch and some beach time or do a poolside recharge at your hotel.

But the day isn’t over just yet. Dev’s Adventure Tours’ new Sunset Mangrove Tour offers a visit to the mangroves during the late afternoon and wraps up the mangrove tour with sunset and a delicious dinner at a local floating restaurant. With the usual mangrove boat traffic having already come and gone, the Sunset Mangrove Tour can be downright romantic!

*Alternative adventure activities for Day 2: Dev’s Kayak Mangrove Tour and Mega Watersports Jet Ski Tour

My Two Cents: *If you opt to take the Nature Cycling Tour, dress for comfort and wear proper cycling footwear (not flip flops). But just a heads up, (ladies) may want to be mindful of showing ‘too much skin’. You will be making a few stops along the way and meeting locals, so it’s just proper etiquette. But again, this is just my two cents. *You will also want to have sunscreen and insect repellent with you.

Day 3: Langkawi Itinerary

Island tour (rental car or taxi) skull sand beach temuran waterfall kraft komplex tanjung rhu beach eagle square lagenda park night market.

Day 3 of my Langkawi itinerary is about exploring the island on your own. I personally think that having your own set of wheels every day is not necessary. But renting your own transportation for at least one day allows first time visitors to take an island tour at their own pace. At a glance Langkawi may look easy-peasy, and it is for the most part, but it can also get confusing. Heading clockwise and generally keeping a clockwise direction in mind, from any starting point, will help keep the island drive slightly more organized.

And as you can see from the basic map below, the main roads typically skirt the coastline and cross through the middle in a few places. Local eateries and roadside food vendors make their appearances at regular intervals, so don’t worry about being hungry or thirsty as you will have loads of options for refueling along the way.

Taking the road from Telaga Harbor northeast towards Tanjung Rhu Beach is a lovely drive with little room for error and plenty of scenic vistas along the way. While in the Telaga Harbor area, if you still want to see the ‘top’ of Seven Wells Waterfall, now is your chance. There are also two other waterfalls along the driving route; Temuran Waterfall and Durian Waterfall.

Heading northeast through the Machinchang Geoforest Park there will be a northbound road that leads to the Datai Resort. Well past the Crocodile Farm (which is not on this recommended Langkawi itinerary), continue driving north on the well-paved road. As the road (Jalan Datai) reaches the sea and curves left, Pantai Pasir Tengkorak (Skull Sand Beach) will be on the right hand side.

Skull Sand Beach is a small but gorgeous local beach that can really draw a crowd on the weekends. The sand is white, the water is relatively clear and there are plenty of shade trees. But it also has historic significance which is explained in two seaside markers. Named Skull Sand Beach because once upon a time more than a few bodies/ body parts floated their way to these shores from the nearby ex-penal colony island of Koh Tarutao , Thailand. You can see Koh Tarutao looming large across the adjacent waters.

Just up the road, still heading north, is Air Terjun Temurun (Temuran Waterfalls). Temuran Waterfalls has three tiers and is notably the tallest waterfall in Langkawi. The waters cascade 30-meters to the pool below. As with any waterfall, it will be much more dramatic during the rainy season. But it still a beautiful location for a picnic or a dose of nature.

Backtracking to the main road and taking a left, head north and you will reach Pantai Teluk Yu (Shark Bay Beach). Across the road (and down a bit) from the beach is Komplex Kraft (Craft Complex) which is well worth a visit and can easily take an hour or so to explore because it is so interesting. The complex covers about 32 acres with a main building housing three museums with highlights on culture, heritage and the wedding practices of the 13 states of Malaysia. It’s an insightful look at Malaysian culture and entry is free.

Continuing onward, the road will veer to the right and smack into the roundabout of Padang Lalang . If you take the road to the left (north) you will arrive at the pristine sandy shores of Pantai Tanjung Rhu. Until recently this stretch of public beach was just a beautiful beach with a couple of food and drink vendors. Now, however, there are a few businesses along the waterfront including a jet ski and parasail operation and a small seaside hotel.

Tanjung Rhu Beach is still lovely and has one of the best Fish and Chips restaurants in Langkawi located there. Scarborough Fish & Chips offers a shady lunch spot adjacent to the sea and they aren’t too bothered if you linger beyond lunch. If you prefer to eat ‘more like a local’, to the north you will find several roadside vendors offering diverse selections of traditional foods and beverages.

Had your fill of beaches and waterfalls? Head back to the roundabout and turn left (east). Jalan Ayer Hangat leads you south into Kuah town. Along the way you will pass Ayer Hangat Hot Springs , Durian Perangin Waterfall and Galeria Perdana , but the Kuah Ferry Terminal Jetty is your ultimate goal because your next itinerary stop is Eagle Square .

Inexpensive parking is available at the Kuah Ferry Terminal Jetty and it is just a short walk across the parking lot to Dataran Lang (Eagle Square). Yes, it may look like a cheesy tourist thing, but it’s worth a visit just for the photo op alone. Adding your own Eagle Square photo to the slew already posted on Instagram is akin to the modern day version of carving your name on a tree. Nothing says, ‘I was at Eagle Square’ better than an Eagle Square selfie! It’s open daily and there is no entry fee.

While you are in the neighborhood, the 50-hectare Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman (Lagenda Park) is right next door to Eagle Square. The waterfront garden museum contains 17 sculptures depicting various scenes from the legends and myths of Langkawi. Originally opened in 1996, the park’s stone residents are showing their wear and tear a bit, but the grounds themselves are still well-maintained, picturesque and stroll-worthy.

You are probably thinking of food by the end of this day’s adventures and a Langkawi Night Market is the perfect place to go with an appetite. There is a night market every night of the week at different locations across the island. Two of those nights are Kuah locations which would be quite convenient if you happen to be winding up your around the island tour on a Kuah night market night. But since you have transportation it will be easy for you to visit a night market either way.

You can find the Langkawi Night Market locations HERE   And if you would like a little background information on some of the foods you may encounter, check out Must Try Night Market Food in Langkawi

On an environmental note, you will be an absolute island hero if you bring your own food container and reusable bags with you to the night market. In fact any effort to be plastic or styrofoam free while you are visiting Langkawi will make you a hero in many people’s hearts. Especially those who are working towards the goal of a plastic and styrofoam free Langkawi. Thank you in advance and bon appetite!

*Alternative adventure activity for Day 3: Parasailing at Tanjung Rhu Beach or a side Day Trip to Pulau Tuba

My Two Cents: *Motorbikes can be oh so fun, but driving one all day long may take its toll. Do consider the distances you are undertaking for the day and gauge your capabilities accordingly. Sightseeing and keeping one’s eyes on the road can also be a challenge. Especially for first time visitors. But if you insist, please wear a helmet and be extra careful. I would personally recommend renting a car. *Be sure to have a change of clothes and your swimsuit with you because you will have several opportunities to get wet.

*Do not leave valuables in your car or motorbike if you can avoid it, regardless of being in a remote location or a seemingly people infested parking lot. It takes less than one minute to quietly break a window and unlock a door or jimmy open a motorbike storage space. *Also be mindful of leaving valuables unattended on the beach or at a waterfall. This would also be the case if monkeys are present, because to a monkey a bag or day pack could contain tasty treats and they are quite good at snatching bags and climbing trees in the blink of an eye.

*As I mentioned earlier, please do not feed any wildlife, including monkeys along the roadside as this also puts them at high risk to get run over by a car after you are long gone. If you are taking a taxi for the day and the driver is pro monkey feeding, please decline the offer and feel free to tell him or her why.

Day 4: Langkawi Itinerary

Island hopping lake of the pregnant maiden eagle watching wet rice island duty free shopping sunset dinner or day cruise (includes lunch) sunset dinner.

On your last full day, a standard 3-island, Island Hopping excursion would let you tick off a few more Langkawi sights from your list. The standard Island Hopping is a quick 3-4 hour offshore jaunt to the Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park and Pulau Dayang Bunting; home of Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden). The ‘shared’ group tour boat option can range from 35-ringgit on up and may or may not include a pick up from your hotel or guest house. 9:00am and 2:00pm are the usual pick up times from predesignated locations in Pantai Cenang.

If you prefer to depart from Kuah, the island hopping boats leave from Pekan Rabu. Be sure to grab breakfast before your pick-up time because food options are not included and island hopping vendor selections are very limited.

The boats typically have up to twelve passengers. If you prefer a ‘private’ boat, that can also be arraigned with a much higher price tag. In a shared boat Island Hop, do not expect a special tour guide to be on board. This is just an inexpensive, simple (but fun) boat ride from Point A to Point B and Point C. You should also bring your own water, towel, etc. as they are not inclusive on this adventure.

The first stop at Pulau Dayang Bunting allows guests up to an hour to do the quicki-ish hike to the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden , take a swim and then off to see the ‘ Eagle Watching ’. Eagle ‘Feeding’ is a big no-no in the eyes of local naturalists and environmentalists so I only recommend Eagle Watching, which is essentially stopping near Pulau Singa Besar (Big Lion Island) and scanning the skies for hungry birds. Sea Eagles and Brahminy Kites top the list of birds that frequent the area to dive for fish.

Lastly, a 30 to 40-minute stop at the blindingly white-sand beach of Pulau Beras Basah (Wet Rice Island) for a swim and a few selfies. You will be able to rent a mask and snorkel here as well as buy a few snacks. The sun will be high (and strong) by the time you reach this third island, so be sure to lather up with sunscreen and/or wear a hat.

The standard Island Hopping is bookable at most tour desks, however some tour operators will only be looking for 12 pax groups or ‘private’ bookings. This is where things can get confusing for first time visitors. The key word is ‘shared’ group tour unless you happen to be traveling with 11 friends. You can also have your hotel or guest house help you arrange things or for Pantai Cenang departures call Rbz Holiday via sms or Whatsapp at +6 013 420 6303. For Kuah departures call or text Kak Ayu at 010 209 4077. Can read more about Island Hopping HERE

If you prefer something more relaxing, a Langkawi Day Cruise would be a nice wrap up of your 4 days in Langkawi itinerary. Tropical Charters offers a brilliant half day (6 hours) boat trip through the archipelago that you will not soon forget. Sun, sand and sea is what this relaxing outing is all about. Inclusive of gorgeous scenery, a salt-water Jacuzzi, free flow beverages of choice and a barbecue on a private beach. Tropical Charters also includes transportation to and from your hotel or guest house.

With Island Hopping or the Day Cruise you will be back on shore with plenty of time to do some last-minute Duty Free Shopping and relax before dinner.

The epitome of an island holiday is a picturesque sunset dinner on the waterfront and a great way to end your 4 days in Langkawi. Langkawi also offers plenty of waterfront dining with sunset views. However, not all of these fine eateries serve alcohol as well as non-alcoholic beverages. But fear not as I’ve made a list of those who do offer both options.

Check out Langkawi’s Best Waterfront Watering Holes for nine of my personal favorites and toast the glorious Langkawi sunset with your favorite mocktail or cocktail, a delicious meal and a view of the surrounding sea.

*Alternative adventure activity for Day 4: Jungle Trekking

My two cents: *Island Hopping boats come in all shapes and sizes, but they should have an adequate number of life jackets on board at all times. Inquiring about this when booking is a good idea. If the boat you are scheduled to meet up with is not compliant, it is totally up to you regarding your safety. *Please do not join any tour company who is touting ‘Eagle Feeding’. The words feeding and watching often get clumped into one, so just for the record, there are some who throw chicken skin out to entice the wild birds to dive for the food and entertain the guests (aka Eagle Feeding). It is unnecessary and unhealthy for the birds. A little patience will reward you with a more natural version during good old fashioned ‘Eagle Watching’ and it is much more sustainable.

*Being on boats of course increases your chances of dropping something overboard or getting non-waterproof items wet. Having a dry bag or other waterproofing is a good idea. *Wearing proper shoes on a boat will help prevent slipping or falling. Non-skid rubber sole shoes or sandals with straps are highly recommended. *Do be mindful of your trash (as well as cigarette butts) and once again, please don’t feed the monkeys or other wildlife.

But what if it rains!?

Ahh, yes rain. It does indeed happen. And that is where The Ultimate Guide to the Langkawi Rainy Season can come in handy, as it has a full listing of indoor activity options to explore.

As you can see, the Langkawi itinerary choices are rather eclectic. And there are a lot more things to do than I have even mentioned. Seriously. But for first time visitors or those on limited time, my Langkawi itinerary suggestions are based on some of my personal recommendations, while keeping you in ‘general’ areas, each day. Hopefully this will allow you to make the most of your Langkawi experience by sparing you the time-wasting, bouncing back and forth across the island. That of course can seriously eat up your vacation time or have you frantically racing from point A to point B. And we all know that islands are best savored typically on ‘island time’; slow-paced and relaxing.

Choosing a hotel location can also factor into the conveniences of things. If you are still on the fence about where to stay, check out 30 Great Places to Stay in Langkawi. Care to check out local events and specials? Take a look at This Week in Langkawi, a weekly guide of Langkawi happenings. And if you are also heading to Penang? Check out Langkawi to Penang in 4 Easy (and Cheap) Steps !

Ps: Don’t forget to use common sense when dressing for your planned excursions. Swimwear or super revealing clothes are not always appropriate. Keeping a sarong or long sleeve shirt handy can instantly transform you into a culturally sensitive traveler, should you suddenly find yourself in an area where the majority are wearing long pants or dresses. This goes for men and women. It’s a gesture of respect towards older locals, as well as fellow international visitors.

If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below or shoot me an email. Hope you have a great time in Langkawi!

December 8, 2018 at 8:09 pm

This is very similar to my four days that I spent in Langkawi! I especially loved the cable car and boat ride to the eagle watching.

December 9, 2018 at 7:33 am

You must have been very busy! Or at the least very organized (kuddos). I think many people underestimate how much there is to do in Langkawi and don’t do much research ahead of time, missing a lot of things. Glad you did your homework.

December 8, 2018 at 11:57 pm

I would love to cycle around Langkawi but how big is the island? Can it be done in a day or in a couple of days? Also is there a story to that Eagle? That is huge!

December 9, 2018 at 7:46 am

Yes, you could actually cycle around Langkawi in a day, but that would be without stopping much. The main island is 478+ km², which is bigger than Penang Island. The eagle is actually a Brahminy Kite, which looks a lot like an American Eagle (but much smaller). Langkawi does however have Sea Eagles which look more like HUGE Seagulls. It’s still a mystery to me why they call Eagle Square ‘Eagle Square’ except it rolls of the tongue easier than Brahminy Kite Square.

December 9, 2018 at 2:51 am

I don’t know an awful lot about Langkawi, but it seems like there are a lot of things to do you can do in a short amount of time. Island hopping is always a good activity to do! Hopefully, I can visit Langkawi in the near future.

December 9, 2018 at 7:36 am

Indeed Tom! Many people make their Langkawi plan for just a few days and probably regret later that they made their trips so short. There is way more to do than I even mentioned!

December 9, 2018 at 12:44 pm

I give 1, 000 points for Dev’s Adventure Tours using reusable glass water bottles. I’m really into night market visits. The one in Langkawi interests me so much :)

December 10, 2018 at 7:48 am

I would love to see a Rudderless Exploration of Langkawi. Your video and blog style is perfect for the diversity of this island. (hint hint). You should come!

December 9, 2018 at 9:28 pm

Ahhh.. 4 days in Langkawi sounds amazing! I am yet to visit so this itinerary will be very helpful. I like how you give your recommendations as well as a variety of options too :) I think I’ll try everything when I do get to visit except for the cycling tour as I don’t know how to ride on. LOL.. But overall, great guide!

December 10, 2018 at 7:51 am

Thanks Marvi! But hmmm.. maybe I should suggest to them to add a bicycle built for two? :D

December 10, 2018 at 11:26 am

You had a busy 4 days in Langkawi. But I can see why you think a 7-10 day visit might be better. I like the idea of starting with panoramic views to get an overview. Visiting Seven Wells waterfalls and swimming in the pools sounds perfect. A Malaysia cultural show sounds like a good way to finish a day. And no visit would be complete without spending time at one or more beaches. Or hopping around on an island hop.

December 11, 2018 at 5:07 pm

Hey Linda! I’ve found that when I visit a place for just a few days, that I spend more time trying to figure where to go for what than I do sightseeing. So my cut to the chase massive itinerary should be a piece of cake. Since I live here, I know Langkawi very well.

December 10, 2018 at 8:54 pm

There is so much to see and do here! Even if I kept going clockwise, I think I still might be lost on Langkawi. Hopefully, I’d get lost next to a fruit stand or some waterfalls though!

December 11, 2018 at 4:57 pm

Ha! Yes a fruit stand is always a comfort. :D

December 11, 2018 at 9:18 pm

Island hopping would be mandatory for me, so pretty. I love waterfalls and the swimming hole looks wonderful. But, I am all about the mangrove and swimming monkeys! New bucket list item for sure

December 14, 2018 at 1:22 pm

You would be in island hopping heaven here Sherianne! :D

December 12, 2018 at 7:27 am

I love that you are honest and recommend spending more more time in Langkawi, 7-10 days. But what a great 4 day itinerary if somebody is stretched for time on their first visit. Plus you give alternative activities, brilliant!

The Malaysia Cultural Show with the buffet dinner sounds amazing, and tasty. I would be torn between this and the Sunset Mangrove Tour. Too many choices hahaha.

December 14, 2018 at 1:21 pm

There really are a lot of choices Sara. My recommendations are based on the Langkawi experience more so than doing ‘stuff’ you could see and do anywhere else.

December 15, 2018 at 12:56 am

Wow! You’re clearly the go-to expert for Langkawi! This is a very well thought out multi-day itinerary made simple for anyone looking to experience this island gem.

December 15, 2018 at 1:26 am

Thanks Kate, perhaps a bit wordy but I could hardly contain my enthusiasm. :D

December 31, 2018 at 3:38 pm

I need help for May end itinerary plan for 4 days stay at Langkawi and KL for 3 days

January 1, 2019 at 8:27 am

Looks like you found the perfect 4 day itinerary for Langkawi then! KL itinerary suggestions I don’t presently have but I’m sure there are many listings in Google. :)

January 21, 2019 at 9:24 pm

How is the zipline in Langkawi?

January 21, 2019 at 9:33 pm

Skytrex is great. Affordable too. Three levels to choose from and it won’t break the bank. They are super personable there too, so they instill confidence. The only Langkawi Zipline I personally recommend.

April 23, 2019 at 8:09 am

Thanks for writing this! I’m planning a first-time visit to Langkawi with my family and we’re really thinking about spending a week instead of a few days, so this is perfect! Great info!

April 23, 2019 at 8:18 am

Thanks Jon! I actually do recommend 7-10 days to fully appreciate Langkawi. There is a lot more here than people realize! You’ll need a week just to eat your way through the night markets. :D

May 9, 2019 at 6:37 pm

Which hotel would you recommend in langkawi.. And where do you stay?im looking for good place to stay there for 3 days. I have no idea which one to choose.

May 9, 2019 at 8:31 pm

Hi Kana, here is a run down of 30 Langkawi Hotels I recommend and you can also see the areas that they are in. So if you decide to shop around you can still get an idea of what the areas are like. Some hotels are erroneously listed on booking sites, so it is best to also look up a particular hotel on a google map and truly see the immediate area. Beachfront does not always mean ‘beachfront’ if you get my drift. :D https://www.theislanddrum.com/best-places-to-stay-langkawi-malaysia/

May 11, 2019 at 10:23 pm

These info are very helpful. Can u tell me whether u took any package or u explore everything on own?

May 11, 2019 at 11:59 pm

Thanks Jenifer. I mention in the blog the various companies I recommend for certain activities, like mangrove tours and boat cruises. This is an itinerary I put together based on my experience as someone who lives in Langkawi, so yes I’ve had all of these experiences. No one that I know of has a ‘tour’ itinerary like this. I also cram a lot into a short period of time, to hopefully help visitors make the most of their time and spend less time driving from point A to point B.

May 28, 2019 at 2:04 pm

Hi, may i know how much do you spent in these 4 days?

May 28, 2019 at 5:15 pm

Hi Chai, that would depend on how you travel. Your hotel choices, your dining choices, etc.. will all add up differently for different people. You could easily book an inexpensive hostel room, eat from the night market and spend your days hanging out on the beach (only)for less than 200RM a day. Most of the tours I recommend are less than 250rm and they often include a meal. My itinerary suggestions put you in the driver’s seat and is not an all inclusive ‘package’ so you can pick and choose what might be of interest to you as well as suit your budget. Hope that helps. :)

July 9, 2019 at 3:59 pm

its ideal place to visit with family, have enjoyed 3 days in Langkawi with my family…cable car ride was amazing also boat ride

July 9, 2019 at 7:59 pm

Glad you had a good time Mr. Ismail. I also think Langkawi is quite nice for family holidays, especially for families that love nature. :)

August 19, 2019 at 8:53 pm

Hey guys, we are planning a Trip to the Islands in Sept, we are planning the Itinerary on our own but are having trouble on deciding what to go for as we are there for only 2 nights. We would love to explore on bikes and can you recommend what we can choose and if extending a night would be great?

August 20, 2019 at 5:16 pm

This post has four days worth of recommendations. Including a bike tour. :)

November 19, 2019 at 12:10 am

I’m looking at 3D2N with 2 elderly who are avid walkers. Where do you recommend we visit plus hotel stay? Also 1 person is vegetarian. Tq

November 20, 2019 at 12:27 pm

Hi SPLim, it depends on your budget and what type of travelers your group is. Off the bat I can recommend Idaman Guest House in Kuala Teriang as it is affordable, cosy and your walkers might really enjoy the quiet location. It is a village and is flat so no climbing etc.. There are plenty of local places to eat near by also. https://www.theislanddrum.com/langkawi-homestays-kampung-stays/ As for an itinerary, what I highlight in this 4-5 day post can be mixed and matched. I would definitely put the cable car day and the drive around the island on your 3 day itinerary. I also think your elderly folks would enjoy that pace. Just eliminate any offshore boating trips, with exception to the mangrove tour (which is not too strenuous) and is very interesting to see all of the mangrove nature. There is a very nice Seafood Restaurant walking distance from the Idaman as well. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can also easily hire a taxi for a day for around RM200. Idaman can help you out with that also. Oh! And you must visit a night market! 7 nights a week at different locations and if you go before sunset you will avoid crowds easier. Hope this helps. :)

January 4, 2020 at 4:13 pm

This is a super article and will stop a lot of scammers who profess to be would be travel agents who are not licensed or registered. Well done. Too bad not everyone can see this and realize there are a lot of things for free and one of those things is of course doing your research. Obviously you have done a great job, Too bad you can not publish this article in Langkawi Love Tribe?

January 4, 2020 at 5:04 pm

Thanks Julie. The Island Drum gets a lot of monthly page views locally as well as internationally and 85% of those folks are ‘new’ traffic. My blog and website is going into it’s 8th year and I think has a larger audience reach potential than a local Facebook group, but thanks for the suggestion. This blog post has also been shared and reshared in various Facebook groups, including my own which is Island Drum of Langkawi. I do agree with you that there are many self-proclaimed ‘experts’ and also more than a few who are out to make a quick buck. That is also one of the reasons I wrote this itinerary for ‘newbies’ and hopefully it will help people get the most out of their first time visit to Langkawi. But also to be honest, anyone who plans their holidays based on information they get from ‘Facebook’ or random ‘Facebook groups’ is practically begging to be scammed by at least one person. There is tons of real information online, people just need to, as you say, do their research. Thank you for the feedback. :)

August 6, 2022 at 8:02 pm

Hi Venessa, a great read. very insightful and very well thought out.

I am in Langkawi for only 3 nights and 2 days . Unfortunately it happens to be the time that the Sky bridge and cable carts are closed : ( .

Is there anything else you would recommend to do in those two days ?

August 7, 2022 at 7:16 am

Thanks Moe. Sorry about the Cable Car, the maintenance schedule a bit weird this year. However, Oriental village is still open even though the cable car is presently closed. But if the cable car ‘view’ is what you are looking for a replacement for, then head to the top of Gunung Raya. It’s actually the tallest mountain in Langkawi (but not the oldest), it’s also free. I recommend driving there (in a car) to save you a lot of time. Hardy slow travelers can hike a massive set of stairs from Lubuk Semilang Recreational Park which is next to Mardi Agro Park. :)

January 1, 2023 at 11:49 am

Thank you for this article, my husband and I based our own itinerary around this and we really enjoyed our 4 days in Langkawi! The dance show, aa you mention already, has not yet re-opened which is a real shame- doesn’t seem that there are other restaurants/hotels offering this either. Devs Adventure Tours has also changed their position and now will only schedule a tour if there are min 4 people so we were also unfortunately unable to do the mangrove tour – again a real shame. Highly recommend Mega water sports for the jet ski tour- we had Shahrul as our guide/instructor and he was great. Professional, knowledgeable and we felt very safe in his hands.

January 1, 2023 at 4:05 pm

Thank you for the updates. Bummer about Dev’s, I’m actually surprised they weren’t happy to take the two of you. As for the other regarding AT (which is not on my suggested itinerary), I hope you put that on Trip Adviser. That’s funny though, I always get the ‘no one else has complained’ bit, because I have had those very words said to me all over Malaysia. I was starting to wonder if indeed I was just a complainer. :D Now I won’t take it so personally. Glad you had an overall great trip though. :)

August 10, 2023 at 3:06 am

Hi my name is eduardo i live in LA, i will have 3 days in langkawi, how would u do a 3 DAYER?

will have 6 days total in Malaysia. FIRST TIMER

August 10, 2023 at 11:04 am

Hi Eduardo, welcome. My itinerary attempts to offer the best use of a visitor’s limited time, but days 2 thru 4 pretty much cover a 3 day itinerary. One can waste a lot of sightseeing time driving from point A to point B or having lengthy mid-day meals. But ultimately it depends on what your own personal interests are. Some people like to shop, some like to simply walk to the sea and take a selfie and leave. But if someone wants to hit Langkawi highlights in a limited amount of time this blog post covers it. Hope that helps. :)

April 18, 2024 at 11:27 am

Where would you recommend staying in langkawi? I would like to be near nightlife and be able to go elsewhere as well.

April 18, 2024 at 1:07 pm

If your definition of nightlife means live music and a few people roaming the street after 11pm, The most ‘nightlife’ would be found in Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah ‘tourist’ area. You’ll also be able to sign up for tours or hire taxis/GRAB taxis easily. You’ll find food and beverages of choice a plenty in the areas as well. Hotel with a view of the sea would be optimal. Nadias is smack in the middle of Cenang and comes at affordable prices. :) Have fun!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Subscribe To Our Monthly Newsletter Yet?

Subscribe to The Island Drum's newsletter and get monthly updates on latest blog posts and upcoming events.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Travel-stories through the camera

Our Perfect Langkawi travel itinerary – How to Spend 3 days in Langkawi (Malaysia)

Sharing is caring!

Langkawi, the ‘Jewel of Kedah’, is a stunning archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea which takes a special place on most travellers’ bucket list. Which is why you will find lots of information available to help you plan your most suitable Langkawi travel itinerary . And, that is actually how we had planned ours as well – no need for any travel packages!

A trip to Malaysia without Langkawi is definitely incomplete. Nestled off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is actually closer to the Thai islands than it is to the Malaysian-mainland. And the beautiful scenery of Langkawi is more reminiscent of a tropical island than anywhere else you might find in the country.

Although you can easily spend a week or even 10 days exploring the Langkawi, but if you have time limitations, 3 or 4 days is good enough. We felt 3 days in Langkawi is the perfect amount of time needed to enjoy the sights and delights of this Malaysian archipelago.

In this blog post, we will share with you our 3-day Langkawi travel itinerary . We are sure this will help you plan your trip in the aptest way possible.

Our Langkawi Travel Itinerary

Let’s start this with a quick summary of our 3 days in Langkawi – Things to do in Langkawi

Day – 1

Langkawi Cable-Car and Sky-Bridge

3-D Art Museum

Kok Beach (Pantai Kok)

Pekan Kuah Night Market

Day – 2, langkawi mangrove tour.

Black sand beach

Durian Perangin Waterfall

Pantai cenang beach, day – 3, duty-free shopping at billion.

Eagle Square

Island hopping tour

We had taken an early morning flight from KL so we reached Langkawi by 9 am itself. Although it was a bit hectic to wake up very early in the morning to catch the flight, but as a result, we could have the entire day to start our Langkawi travel on a high note. Also, on the third day, we took a late afternoon flight so that we could enjoy Langkawi, a natural beauty, in the morning and KL, a man-made beauty (with all its glittering lights), in the evening!

Breathtakingly scenic landing at Langkawi Airport

Just like any other archipelago, landing at Langkawi is a scenically spectacular affair. Make sure you have the window seat on your flight from KL to Langkawi. Turquoise waters, white sand and greenery of tropical islands – a perfect picture!

Once you disembark your flight and come down, you will experience something strange. Or at least it was strange to us – the terminal is more like a marketplace than like an airport. A marketplace of tour operators, travel agents and car-rental services. But it’s actually good – you can hop from one vendor to another and get quotations for popular tours like island hopping, Geoforest Park, Pantai Cenang etc.

We on the other hand got very lucky. As we had booked an Airbnb apartment for our stay and the owner of that place happened to be a tour operator, a wonderful person who offered us cheaper rates compared to the other tour operators and the guy himself came to pick us up at the Langkawi airport and chose to be our guide to take us on route our very own Langkawi travel itinerary.

Langkawi Sky-Bridge and Cable-Car

Undoubtedly it was the first of the many places to visit in Langkawi on our trip plan. Famous for a lot of things but we as visitors from the land of Bollywood were more excited as it is the spot where the last scenes of the movie Don (the one with Shah Rukh Khan) were shot! Our guide was very kind to offer to stand in the queue at the ticket counter for us. It gave us time to click loads of pictures and gather more information about that place. There are a lot of spots for the perfect Instagram picture of the day or just a romantic selfie with a picturesque background. We surely had our share of that experience and even interacted with some outgoing organisms along the way.

Even before receiving our tickets (improvised as wrist bands so no one loses it) we were already in queue for the steepest (42 degree gradient) cable car ride in the world – The Langkawi SkyCab. It is merely a 15-20 minute ride to the top but depending on the rush it can increase a bit. You can choose between a full glass cable car and the one with lesser glass and families are always seated together. The management around the operations of that place is really commendable and the glass cabins are perfectly safe to make you just enjoy the spellbinding 360 degree scenes around. While we rode uphill we let ourselves soak in the vibes of the waterfalls and jungle beneath rich in flora and fauna and the views of the Pantai Kok along the Telaga Harbour with Mount Raya in the backdrop

At the end of the cable car ride lays a few more steps to the 125 meter pedestrian bridge hanging along the Mat Cincang peak (708 meters ASL) as a true engineering masterpiece – The Langkawi SkyBridge . And once we reached there, the panoramic views till the horizons were simply astounding. On a clear day one can even see Thailand from up there. However, the trail of steps do not end at this bridge as one can climb up till the very top of the mountain and enjoy the top view of the Langkawi SkyBridge with all the beauty around it. We surely did not miss that opportunity. After taking a lot of pictures we went for a short hike into the Geoforest under the cable cab ride and once we were completely soaked in the vibes of the first place on our Langkawi travel itinerary we rode down the Langkawi SkyCab enjoying the mesmerising views of the hilly archipelago.

SkyDome and SkyRex

These two attractions at this locale gave us more than a three-dimensional experience. The beautiful journey through the universe inside the SkyDome was incredibly soothing while the breath-taking journey through the world of Dinosaurs amidst T-Rex wars surely tested our adrenaline glands. For a moment I forgot it was a simulation. One should definitely go for these experiences as part of the combo tickets along with the 3-D Art Museum as package deals. Note: Having the MyKad earns you a hefty discount when you show it at the ticketing counter.

Adjacent to the SkyRex is this amazing 3-D Art Museum where we had the best optical illusion experience of our lives by far. Every piece of art is made in such a way that from one particular viewpoint the artwork comes to life and one can pose as if they are a part of that lively picture in the aftermath. We tried to be as creative as we could.

Kok Beach a.k.a Lighthouse beach (Pantai Kok)

Though this Lighthouse beach was not on our Langkawi trip plan when we saw this beautiful beach behind the Telaga harbor from the top of the Langkawi SkyBridge and even during the cable car ride, we decided we just had to visit it. This is one of the best things to do in Langkawi. Our guide was kind enough to drive us as close to the beach as he could and once we reached the Kok Beach the views of the turquoise waters with small islands in the distance and boats docks at the beach with the gorgeous Lighthouse in the backdrop were literally jaw dropping. This forces us to suggest you to add it to you Langkawi travel itinerary whenever you are there. We spent some time there before bidding adieu to Kedah – the north-western part of the main island in Langkawi and a natural habitat for many endangered and rich species.

Nights in Langkawi are serene and pretty tranquil except for the Night Markets. Busy and eventful market streets crowded with people teeming over the shops with the variety that it has to offer. Among all the Night Markets in Langkawi, the Pekan Kuah Night Market was on our Langkawi things-to-do list. As expected our experience included a plethora of delicacies and the entire spectrum of colours, wonderfully arranged in the narrow packed streets of the night market. The shops even sell local goods and souvenirs at very reasonable rates and while enjoying some of the local delicacies we kept observing what to buy in Langkawi. While returning we asked our host/guide/chauffeur about what to do in Langkawi for the rest of our stay and verified it with our very own Langkawi things-to-do list. So by the end of day one of our 3 day Langkawi trip plan, we had a rough idea of how much to spend in Langkawi.

If you ask any local about what things to do in Langkawi then they will definitely suggest you to include Langkawi Mangrove Tour in the itinerary . Nestled inside the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park there is this wonderfully pristine boat ride experience through the mangrove waters of the Kilim River with natural eagle feeding spots which left us all enthralled. There are even a few places where we got down and had a first-hand experience of the natural beauty of this location’s topography as well as a variety of flora and fauna. Huge fruit bats in the Bat Cave, colourful fishes, lobsters and sting rays at the Fish Farm and the sight of the birds of prey (the White-bellied Fish Eagle and the Brahminy Kite which gives Langkawi its name) that dominate the skies of Langkawi swooping down and feeding on the helpless fishes left us in awe of the adventurous vibe of the naturally built environment of this well preserved Geoforest. The very sight of the mangrove lined mountains of huge rocks emerged at right angles from the water was daunting enough to leave a massive imprint of the entire experience on our memory receptors.

Black Sand Beach

After our overwhelming tour of the mangrove waters, we wanted to relax and let our experience sink in. So our guide drove us to the Black Sand Beach of Langkawi which has a lot of myths surrounding the dark color of the sand in that region. However, this pristine beach with almost no human activity and the scenic views with the Andaman Sea touching the horizon was the perfect soothing experience we were looking for on the Langkawi itinerary 3 days. Before leaving we even bought a few souvenirs from the shops along the way that leads to the beach and adjacent to the parking lot.

Durian being the national fruit of Malaysia and a very popular mode of income for the local farmers can be often seen on almost every street and market in Langkawi. And once we got to know there is an entire durian forest and a waterfall running through it with hikes on either side of the waterfall and bridges connecting them; we just had to include it in our Langkawi trip plan. This place has a mystical atmosphere and is well preserved in the lap of a hill and the sound of water flowing and the birds singing put us in a trance while we hiked up to the top. It is a haven for all nature lovers and an inspiration for those who are blind to its incredible beauty.

Langkawi trip plan only feels complete once you see the sunset from the Pantai Cenang/Beach. So we made sure we were already there at least an hour before the sun kisses the horizon and eventually hides behind it. It was definitely worth it. And so was the dip in the cool turquoise waters swimming with the tides that broke on the soft sandy beach. One can even participate in Parasailing activities that the tour operators have to offer. And just around sunset the entire backdrop changes into a spectrum of red and orange colours and the picturesque views that follow are simply breath-taking.

Apart from beautiful beaches and mystical geoforests Langkawi is also famous for the Duty-free shopping opportunities it has to offer. And our ladies strictly wanted that on our Langkawi travel itinerary. Billion seemed to be the best possible option that we could have availed of or as a matter of fact, that anyone should avail of. We spent a couple of hours in this huge supermarket with great quality and branded goods at cheap duty-free rates. You can find all sorts of things here, ranging from chocolates and souvenirs to cigarettes and alcohol (however check with your airline operator on how much duty-free alcohol you can carry). After spending two days on the main-island we had already made a list of what to buy in Langkawi. So we tried to quickly strike off every item off that list so that we can use the rest of the day efficiently before finally embarking on our return journey from this whimsical paradise in the Indian Ocean.

Scroll more to check out things to do in Langkawi!!!

Eagle Square a.k.a Dataran Lang

At walking distance from the Kuah Jetty, CHOGM Park, and the Billion supermarket (as well as a few other duty-free shopping malls), the Eagle Square boasts of a 12 meter tall monument of the reddish-brown eagle looking over the Kuah Bay and acting as a welcoming sight for ferries as the symbol of Langkawi. As per folklore, it is this mighty bird that gives the archipelago its name (helang – eagle, kawi – reddish-brown). The area is open for 24 hours but dawn and dusk would be the best times to be there. It is one of the top things to do in Langkawi and the beautifully designed courtyard and park surrounding the monument provides for the impeccable background for a postcard-perfect picture. Hence being photography enthusiasts, even though we had visited this place the night before, we checked it out again after our tour of the Billion supermarket.

Once we were done with Kuah we had enough time to include the Langkawi island hopping tour in our self-curated Langkawi tour package itinerary. It had started raining while we were on route to the Teluk Baru Jetty. The weather in Langkawi in July can be a little unpredictable with light showers but it only enhances the views after the rains clear out and we were lucky enough to experience that as by the time we reached the jetty, the sky had already cleared out. We did not have any prior bookings and that is not necessary as well. Though there are a lot of tour operators, typically tours only operate twice a day (one at around 9am and the other at around 2pm). You can go through our Langkawi island hopping tour blog for more detailed information on it. It is a part of the Langkawi trip blog series.

Return flight to KL

Well, all things come to an end and so did our Langkawi experience. After striking off every place on our Langkawi travel itinerary we were finally back at the airport where it all started. As we approached the boarding counters, the creatively designed murals and wall-art on one side all the alley made us revise our entire Langkawi trip plan. Even after boarding, we were ruminating on all the incredible experiences we had and hence we definitely suggest you have a similar list of places to visit in Langkawi in 3 days. As we had a late afternoon flight the stunning dusky views just after take-off was the best conclusion to our Langkawi trip plan that we could have gotten. Since our 3 day trip to Langkawi cost for 5 adults was not heavy on the pockets this itinerary can be considered as a Langkawi trip budget. However, what we personally felt is that any amount you spend here will always be worth it.

3 DAYS IN LANGKAWI – OUR PHOTO GALLERY

1 thought on “Our Perfect Langkawi travel itinerary – How to Spend 3 days in Langkawi (Malaysia)”

Yes it’s very nice place..We enjoy very much….. Super photography n writing extra ordinary… Keep it up..

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

GET IN TOUCH

Ready To Take Your Corporate Culture To The Next Level?

Request a complimentary proposal and discover how Traworld can elevate your organisation's corporate culture while fostering a thriving employee spirit.

• B-29-3A, Tower B, Pavilion Embassy, Kompleks Pavilion Ampang, No 200 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.
• [email protected]
• +6011-2352 1346
• Chat With Us
• Schedule Appointment

A Perfect 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary for Your Langkawi Trip

A holiday is fun😄 but the planning is dreadful😫. Planning a trip is the part of the process that many people are excited about and yet when it comes to the small details on where to stay, where to eat and what to do, we tend to have trouble figuring them out. So we have decided to come to your rescue 🦸‍♂️! We have come up with all the plans to solve the holiday homework that you have been procrastinating. Here is a perfect 3 days 2 nights itinerary for your Langkawi trip.

Day 1 (Arrival)

Authentic korean lunch.

Kickstart your first day in Langkawi with Korean food at Haroo Story Korean Restaurant! It is owned by a Korean family, so you can bet that the meals here are authentic. If you are new to Korean cuisines, you might be scratching your head with dishes like beef bokkeum, bibimbap and kimchi jeon. Well, scratch no more! That is because their menu has a detailed explanation of what each dish is!

The food portion here is pretty huge, so small eaters might want to share. In addition to that, the ajumma and ajusshi who are here are very friendly, giving you a warm and enjoyable lunch time. Haroo Story Korean Restaurant serves halal meat and food, but they are not certified halal because they also serve 🍺 alcohol. On the other hand, their branches Haroo Korean Restaurant and Haroo+ Korean Restaurant serve peppa pig 🐽pork.

⏰ Hours: 11:30am - 5:30pm 📞 Phone: 012-514 0049 📍 Address: (Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall) 21, Persiaran Putera Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

Hotel Check-in

If you decide to stay in Kuah during 🎄Christmas or school holidays, we would like to suggest Bayview Hotel Langkawi! Because we have special rates only for you people who are reading our blog! Not forgetting to mention, that this is a modern non-smoking hotel with ⚡high-speed 📶WiFi.

📞 Phone: 04-966 1818 📍 Address: Jalan Pandak Mayah 1, Pusat Bandar Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

The Symbol of Langkawi

Auw~ 🦅 He is humongous, he is charismatic, he is popular, he is Lang! A visit to Langkawi is not complete without a 📸photo opportunity with this iconic landmark of Langkawi.

📍Address: Persiaran Putera Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

Learn About the History of Langkawi

Not far away from Lang 🦅 Auw ~ is Lagenda Park. The over 50 hectares park has 4 artificial lakes, a beach and 17 unique sculptures depicting the legends & myths of Langkawi from prehistory periods until modern time.

This is a picturesque park to relax and spend time with family and friends! The beautiful 🌊sea view also makes it a wholesome place for a picnic.

📍Address: (Next to Eagle Square and Jetty Point) Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

A Syrian Lunch

If you are wondering what to eat for lunch, head to Alhamdulillah Restaurant. This restaurant is famous for its mouth-watering Syrian Arabic cuisines like kebab, chicken, rice, 🧆falafel, hummus, fattoush and much more! Vegetarian and vegan options are also available here.

Some of the past guests here have advised reserving your table ahead of ⌚ time.

⏰ Hours: 2pm - 10pm (Fri - Tue), 4pm - 10pm (Thurs), 5:30pm - 10pm (Fri) 📞 Phone: 017-344 8813 📍 Address: Lot 5, Persiaran dayang Pekan Rabu - baru Baron Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

Duty-Free Shopping 

Who says you have to shop for souvenirs on the last day of vacation when you can basically shop anytime. After a good time filling your 😋tummy with lots of good food, you can shop for souvenirs at duty-free shops around Kuah town.

Dataran Lang Illumination

Although many tourists fancy some 📸photos with the eagle at Kuah during the day, the night view here at Dataran Lang is also spectacular due to the colourful light illuminations. So go to Dataran Lang again for a different view at night.

There are also ice cream and snack stalls around the place and small motor vehicles for kids to ride on.

Relax on Bean Bags With Beers by the Beach

This is a non-halal option for non-halal practitioners (basically non-muslims -lah ). At night there are lots of 🍸bars & lounges along the Cenang beach that you can choose from.

Some of them include the Kalut Beach Bar & Café Langkawi where you can yum seng until kaw kaw on the beanbags by the beach with beers🍻 and some clubby pop music.

⏰ Hours: 11am - 1am (Daily except Fri), 5pm - 12am (Fri) 📞 Phone: 017-348 5515 📍 Address: 2, Jalan Pantai Chenang, Kampung Lubok Buaya, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

Sweat It All Out

Good morning! 🌈 You can start your day with fun-filled and thrilling activities at Paradise 101 Langkawi! (Come stretch your muscles💪 couch potato🥔) This place is a man-made island with nothing else but exhilarating fun!

Over here, you can experience exciting activities like jet skiing, 🛶kayaking, aqua park, 🪂parasailing, etc.

⏰ Hours: 11am - 6pm 📞 Phone: 04-965 0300 📍 Address: Telaga Harbour Marina, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

Vegan Lunch

Ok, first of all, no one is converting you into veganism and second of all the food here is 🤯💥bombz. You will be left wondering how vegan food tastes so good! (Well, that is because they can😤) Kolma Langkawi is a comfy cafe with a cat at home, which makes it a very Instagrammable cafe. The friendly owners, Julia and Taufiq even allocated space for handcrafted items from Langkawi artisans.

As for the food, Kolma Langkawi offers vegan selections from mains to desserts. Despite serving only vegan meals, the variety on the menu is pretty extensive. With so many different types of foods to choose from, your stomach will be filled to the brim without a doubt.

⏰ Hours: 9am - 6pm (Thurs - Sun) 📞 Phone: 011-3584 7051 📍 Address: Jalan Pantai Tengah, Kampung Lubok Buaya, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

Sunset Dinner Cruise

The traditional way to enjoy the 🌅sunset view is by the beach, but if you want something extraordinary (or even romantic💏), why not try out the Sunset Dinner Cruise?

Even though it’s a dinner cruise, eating is not the only thing you can do here. You can also enjoy the special sea jacuzzi and what is that? You might ask. Well, the only way to find out is to try it yourself -lah!

Ok, just kidding, this writer is not that 😁mean. The Sea jacuzzi is like the image above. You will have to slip on the life jacket and sit on a huge net. Then, the yacht will tow the net along with you and this will create some sort of 🌊 wave effect just like a jacuzzi. This is very fun, you should try it out.

Pasar Malam

At 🌙night you can hunt for local specialities at the Pasar Malam! Treat your taste buds to local delicacies like Peneram, Ikan Bakar, Apam Balik and many more.

There are a few night markets in Langkawi all located mainly at Pantai Cenang, Kuah, and Padang Matsirat. They all open at around 5pm but be sure to check their business day/s on Google.

Day 3 (Final Day)

Under the sea.

You don’t have to get wet to go under the sea. At  Underwater World Langkawi, you get to see fish and corals without getting yourself wet. The greatest attraction here is of course the 🐧penguins (or penglings, according to Benedict Cumberbatch). They are very active and great at entertaining the audience with their attics. Don’t miss out on their feeding time.

This is also an ideal place to bring the kids along, as it provides a one-stop place for knowledge, education and entertainment.

With more than 200 sea & freshwater species, a 3D theatre, a reptile section and even birds, there is so much to see than you can imagine.

⏰ Hours: 10am - 6pm 📞 Phone: 04-955 6100 📍 Address: Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah

Authentic Malay Kampung Cooking

If you want to try out some local flavour for dinner, why not fill your tummy at Cili Kampung Tengah Beach?

Do not look down on this shabby-looking place okay... as it has some of the best traditional Malay cooking, all cooked to "Mak" 🧕 standards. Some of them include masak lemak daging salai, ayam masak kicap and many more.

If you are a person who doesn't like planning, you can utilise this 3 days 2 nights itinerary for your Langkawi trip. If you hate arranging trips, then hoho what else😁follow this itinerary -lah.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH US!

Subscribe to our newsletter

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent to your inbox weekly.

Thrifty Travels: 15 Budget-Friendly Company Outing Ideas in Singapore

Discover budget-friendly fun in Singapore with our top 15 company outing ideas! Don't let budget constraints hold back your company outing plans, make the most of your thrifty travels.

(City + Countryside) 2-Day 1-Night Selangor Team-Building Itinerary for Small Groups

Embark on a dynamic team-building journey through Selangor's captivating blend of city vibes and countryside charm in our 2-day, 1-night itinerary. Unite your small group with unforgettable experiences.

(Traworld) Throwback to Our First Team Bonding Experience - 2022

Discover the magic of team spirit as Traworld takes you on a journey back to our first team building event. Unforgettable moments await!

(15 Places) Unravel the Beauty of Kayaking Hotspots in Malaysia

From tranquil rivers to breathtaking coastlines, explore 15 must-visit kayaking destinations across Malaysia. Plan your next outdoor escape now!

Langkawi – 15 Things to do for a perfect 4D3N tour

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2023

Categories Visit Malaysia

Are you planning a trip to Langkawi? The gorgeous archipelago of Malaysia is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world.

Langkawi is blessed with clear, blue, pristine water; beautiful mountains covered in lush, green, and thick trees; and has a weather that is pleasant all year round. In addition, the underestimated archipelago is home to ninety-nine islands, most of which are unexplored, so tourists have the time of their life exploring Langkawi. From mysterious caves housing mangroves to magnificent mountain views that deserve to be on postcards, Langkawi is a stellar place to be. Langkawi is so gorgeous. It is known as the Jewel of Kedah, the Malaysian state. All in all, Langkawi is a beautiful destination that deserves all the attention in the world. So, if you’re heading to Langkawi, you’re in for a magical ride.

Make sure to watch our Langkawi video! It is at the end of this article.

When it comes to planning the perfect trip, no matter where what truly matters is how you can make the best of your trip, even if you’re there for only a few days. And when we’re talking about Langkawi, there’s no better way to explore the islands than taking a 4D3N trip. And if you’re hoping for a 4D3N itinerary that explores this gem of an island, you’ve come to the right place.

Below are the 15 best places to visit during your Langkawi trip.

1. Dataran Lang

If you’ve been a little impressed with Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio De Janeiro, wait until you look at Langkawi’s Dataran Lang. Dataran Lang, or the Eagle Square, is a scenic spot in Langkawi; but while it is known for its breathtaking scenery, what also catches the eyes of tourists is its massive sea eagle statue. 

The statue stands at a whopping 12-meter height and is one of the first sights you’ll see if you’re coming in from the entrance. 

The eagle also represents Langkawi; the Malay words Helang meaning eagle, and kawi, meaning reddish-brown make this reddish-brown eagle the symbol of the archipelago. 

This starship plaza located in Kuah Bay is one of Langkawi’s most fascinating places. For those who are looking to take mesmerizing photographs and create memorable moments, Dataran Lang is the perfect place to be. Because it tends to get crowded, especially during peak visiting times, it is best to visit Dataran Lang early in the morning. Early morning is also recommended for those who want to avoid the midday heat. However, if you’re coming in later in the day, it’s absolutely fine; hanging around in the plaza is exceptionally relaxing because of the cooler temperature during the evenings. 

Sunset is a must-watch at Dataran Lang as the amalgamation of various hues of purple, orange, yellow and blue beyond the massive eagle make for a very picturesque sight.

After watching the beautiful sunset, head over to your resort and tuck in the night, so you’re all freshened up for the morning.

2. Island Hopping

Your Langkawi trip is not complete if you skip the island hopping tour. Make your way to the jetty and book a boat tour to take your island hopping. If you want to go with a reliable, pocket-friendly charter that takes you on a detailed tour, the Tiger Line boat line is recommended. Ask for Andy, and he’ll book you some of the best boating tours of the islands. Our tour operator offers tour guides who will let you know all about what you’re seeing and answer each question.

A. Dayang Bunting Island

The first destination during the first island hopping tour is Dayang Bunting. Dayang Bunting, or the ‘Pregnant Maiden,’ is a mountainous island known for its unique landscape.

The shape of the mountain looks fascinatingly similar to a pregnant woman laying down for a rest and makes for a slightly amusing scene. Dayang Bunting is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Geoparks, and if that doesn’t tell you how lovely the island is, I don’t know what will. 

Across the Geoforest Park at Pulau Dayang Bunting, a 10-minute trek through the thick trees takes you to the main lake, a fascinating spot for people to relax, swim, and kayak. It also holds a fascinating culture; many locals believe that infertile women may regain their fertility if they dip in this freshwater lake. You can spend the rest of the day swimming and boating in the lake.

B. Beras Basah Island

Spend an hour at the Beras Basah, an island of pearly white sand and turquoise water. You can spend the time swimming in the refreshing water or making sandcastles. Getting a simple tan or relaxing under a coconut tree will do for those who prefer to be lazier. 

3. Nasi Dagang Pak Malau

You’ll be starving so head over to this underrated restaurant that serves some of the most delicious meals you’ll ever eat. This small neighborhood restaurant is known for its Nasi Dagang, a dish you cannot miss.

The food is mainly traditional Malay food, with the fish gulai as one of the main attractions. Its special rice called nasi kandar is cooked with fenugreek seeds and various spices, something you can only get in this restaurant.

You can dine in the restaurant or bring your food to the gazebo in the backyard, facing the rice field, and enjoy the warm sunny breeze while having your lunch.

4. Makam Mahsuri

A five-minute drive from the restaurant, Makam Mahsuri is a historical place that comes with a dark history. It is believed that a beautiful woman named Mahsuri married a chieftain’s brother, but the chieftain’s wife became jealous and spread rumors about Mahsuri’s loyalty to her husband. As a result, Mahsuri was banished and sentenced to death here. But people from all over Malaysia frequently stop by here to pay their respects to the spirit of Mahsuri, and now it has become an intriguing place to be. 

A Mahsuri well here is known to make its drinker beautiful.

Don’t miss the Kedah house not far away from the Mahsuri well. This is the typical Malay house that most people live in Langkawi during the era of Mahsuri.

5. Sky Cable Car

The next day, take the infamous SkyCab, a Langkawi cable car service that takes you to the top of the mountain in Langkawi. SkyCab takes you on a scenic route overlooking Langkawi Sky Bridge and the archipelago’s gorgeous landscape; an aerial view of the islands is an experience you can’t put into words. 

We highly recommend purchasing the ticket online to spend your precious time enjoying the scenery and exploring different viewpoints on top of the mountain. The queue at the ticketing counter can be quite long during the holiday season.

6. Sky Bridge

From the middle station of the cable car, you can get a full view of the sky bridge. But hang on, I am sure you want to walk on the bridge, so take another cable to reach the top to climb the Sky Bridge. 

The breathtaking bridge overlooks the archipelago and gives you views for days. When you reach the top station, you will be guided to the bridge, also counted among the world’s largest curved suspended bridges. 

If you’re not afraid of heights, take a glimpse down the glass patches and marvel at the height. 

7. Oriental Village

When you come back down, head to the Oriental Village at the base station to calm your adrenaline-filled nerves. From souvenir shops to unique Instagrammable spots, the Oriental Village is a relaxing place to go. If you’re a sucker for local cuisine, the Oriental Village is where you’ll get mouth-watering delights.

8. 3D Art Langkawi

Just a stone’s throw from the Oriental Village is the 3D Art Langkawi, a gallery where you can take a look at the impressive local art and take pictures against the 3D interactive backdrops. 

9. Telaga Tujuh Waterfall

A scenic and natural path takes you to Telaga Tujuh waterfall, which cascades down from approximately 90 meters above. Now it is during the dry season, so the volume of value of water is relatively less.

You only need to walk about 200m from the entrance through a paved walkway to reach the bottom of the waterfall. Then, walk up a few more hundred steps if you are adventurous to stand on top of the waterfall, taking a breathtaking view from above.

10. Black Sand Beach

On your way back, head to Black Sand Beach at Tanjung Rhu to take unique photographs that will act as the perfect ice-breakers on dating sites. There are several beaches along the way, but Black Sand Beach is one you can’t really miss.

Don’t forget to visit Tanjung Rhu beach, only a few minutes walk from Black Sand Beach.

And when you are hungry, stop at Scarborough Fish and Chips, a quaint cafe that serves local and international cuisine. Enjoy the sunset dinner against the spectacular backdrop.

11. MARDI Agrotechnology Park

Take a soothing, guided fruit farm tour and explore the fruit orchards of heavenly fruits, including durians, rambutans, and star fruits at Mardi during your Langkawi trip.

At MARDI, you can eat at a delicious fruit buffet while the guide demonstrates how to make an origami grasshopper out of only one fruit leaf.

MARDI will take you to its grape vineyard, where you can pick till you get tired, and later, you can head to the freshwater pond to feed the catfish.

12. Kompleks Kraf Langkawi

Kompleks Kraf Langkawi is a cultural hub that contains handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, artwork, and woodworks of Malaysian craftsmen. So if you fumble about where to get the perfect gift for your relatives back home, this is the answer you’re looking for. 

There is a Muzium Warisan (Legacy Muzeum) in the complex, where you can learn about Malaysian culture, history, and heritage through the various exhibits.

13 Berjaya Langkawi Resort

You need a good night’s sleep and a comfortable place to reenergize for the following day during your Langkawi trip. A private beach, Berjaya Langkawi Resort is the perfect place to take a romantic stroll. When you get tired of exploring and want just to take a breather, this gorgeous beach transforms into the ideal retreat. 

It’s also a mesmerizing spot for a romantic picnic or, if you’d like, dinner at the nearby Thai restaurant, Pahn Thai. Over here, you can choose to take a seat facing the Andaman sea, watching the sunset while enjoying your dinner.

14. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park mangrove tour

A UNESCO World Heritage Geopark, Kilim Geoforest Park, is a naturalist’s dream come true. The geopark offers private tours, but once again, if you go with Tiger Line, you’re bound to get a seat. The boat trip will travel along the river, flanked by mangrove forests all around. From there, you can make several stops depending on where you want to go.

A. Fish Farm Restaurant

While you can choose to omit this, visiting the fish farm restaurant is a magical experience. From learning about how fish are farmed and meeting horseshoe crabs to eating, the fish farm restaurant offers a fantastic experience.

B. Crocodile Cave

Made for adventurists, the crocodile cave is an arched cave that acts as a natural tunnel and was developed in limestone. Since the Crocodile Cave can only be explored if there’s a low tide, make sure to check in with the locals about the best time to visit.

C. Eagle feeding experience

When you get to the other side, you can take some time off in the water to eagle feed at Pulau Singa Besar, where the swarm of eagles is coming towards you. This is one of the best things you must do in Langkawi.

You will spot two types of eagle, the Brahminy Kite Eagle and the White Bellied Sea Eagle. Take note of the belly of the White Bellied Sea Eagle, which is the same eagle statue at the Dataran Lang.

D. Karstic Hills

The Kilim Karst Geoforest also includes the Karstic Hills, a vertical rock formation of limestone cliffs dating back 500 million years and presenting dramatic but ethereal backdrops.

E. Bats Cave

A place where Batman would thrive, Bat Cave is the home of hundreds of fruit bats that hang from the cave’s ceiling. You can capture the caves but make sure you don’t disrupt the bats.

15. Other attractions

A. If time is allowable, other attractions you may want to consider are the night market at Kuah Town. However, it only opened on Wednesday and Saturday, so it did not fit our itinerary.

B. Pantai Cenang (Cenang Beach) is a 2 km long magnificent beach at the western shoreline of Langkawi. There are all types of water sports available and bustling food stores and shops along the main street. Don’t miss out on this place, especially if you stay at one of the many resorts here.

How to get there and move around

The easiest way to go to Langkawi is by flight if you come from Kuala Lumpur or any other part far away from Langkawi. It has an international airport which means there are direct flights from certain countries.

Upon arriving, one of the best ways to get around is to rent a car. You can request to pick up the car at the Langkawi airport. Since many tourist attractions are at different locations, it can be expensive to book a taxi or e-hailing. Do note that it is right-hand drive in Malaysia, but the traffic in Langkawi is not heavy, so it is pretty easy to drive here.

If you decide to drive to Langkawi, remember to book the ferry ticket, which takes your car to Langkawi from Kuala Perlis. The cost depends on the size of the vehicle, but the most crucial part is to book the ticket in advance, or you may not be able to bring your car to Langkawi, especially during the peak holiday season. You can check out the link here for the ticket.

Watch how we spent our wonderful time during our Langkawi trip!

If you have come so far reading this blog post, don’t miss out on the Langkawi trip video we shot during our holiday. Click the image below to watch on YouTube (shot in high definition!).

Other best places to visit in Malaysia

If you like this Langkawi trip article, you may also want to read about other attractive places to visit in Malaysia. Here are two places we have picked for you.

• Genting Skyworld Theme Park has already opened to the public in early 2022. Check out the latest Theme Park in Asia
• Check out our 3D2N trip to Pangkor Laut Resort, located on a private island. It is one of the most lavish island resorts in Malaysia. Indulge yourself in pure luxury.

Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden- the best Japanese garden in Selangor

Saturday 9th of July 2022

[…] What are you planning for your next holiday? Check out our article: Langkawi – 15 Things to do for a perfect 4D3N tour. […]

Four best Cameron highlands attractions to visit on a day trip

Friday 17th of June 2022

[…] Langkawi – 15 Things to do for a perfect 4D3N tour […]

Belum Rainforest Resort - Stay at the Houseboat and Villa

12 Things to do in Langkawi

(4d3n itinerary).

Langkawi | Kedah

Travel Malaysia

Langkawi is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Malaysia. In this list, we’re sharing the things to do in Langkawi in 4 days 3 nights, which we have never known before!

Langkawi 4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary Guide

(12 things to do in langkawi), langkawi day 1.

Once we’ve landed at Langkawi International Airport, we went ahead to collect our rented car, a Perodua Axia, which we’ve booked through Qeeq.com beforehand. The collection was simple, fast, and easy; the car was ready right at the airport entrance.

Price: Car Rental for 4 days  – RM 403.06 / USD 96.25 (We’ve booked from https://www.qeeq.com/)

1. Langkawi SkyBridge

The first thing we did was to visit the Langkawi Skybridge . The Langkawi Skybridge is one of the most popular tourist spots on the island. From the top, you get an amazing bird’s eye view of Langkawi Island. It is a great place for a family outing, bringing your kids, or even for a date.

Driving to the Skybridge takes about 20 minutes from the Airport. A paid parking area is available. Do take note there is the premium parking and a normal parking area, the prices vary.

To reach the iconic Langkawi Skybridge, we had to walk through the Oriental Village which has lots of other attractions such as the 3D art museum, a 6D ride, a T-rex adventure ride, and even a petting zoo.

From there, we took the Langkawi Skycab Cable Car (RM 40 + RM50 Express Lane top-up), plus a little hike up the Nature Trail (ticket fee of RM6) before reaching the Langkawi Skybridge.

Ticket & Prices :

– Sky Cab tickets (Langkawi Skycab Cable Car/Standard Gondola Ticket) RM 82 / USD 19.58 – Adult (RM40 for locals) RM 64 / USD 15.28 – Child (RM32 for locals) We’ve booked our tickets through Klook because it was cheaper. (Affiliate Link)

– Express Lane Tickets (Add-On) RM 50 / USD 11.94 *Would be cheaper if we book through Klook. We didn’t expect the long queue.

– Sky Bridge Tickets (Add On) / Sky bridge + Nature Trail RM 6 / USD 1.43 – Adult RM 4 / USD 0.96 – Child Booked through Klook  as well. (Affiliate Link)

Check out Klook for amazing deals below!

2. Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh)

Another thing to do in Langkawi is to visit the Seven Wells Waterfall, also known as Telaga Tujuh. The Seven Wells Waterfall is about 5 minutes drive from the Langkawi SkyBridge. You can climb the stairs up to the waterfall area, but we’re here NOT to hike, we’re here to relax! So we’ve only hiked to the base of the waterfall which takes about 5-10 minutes of walk, where you could also relax enjoy the waterfall area.

Price: Free Entrance

3. Dining next to the Paddy Field (at Kerisik Restaurant a.k.a. Seashells Restaurant)

We headed for lunch at Kerisik Restaurant, which highlight is to dine among the Paddy Field. Food was okay not the best, but the experience of dining next to the paddy field was what we came for. We didn’t manage to get a slot at the hut (first come first serve basis), but we really enjoyed the view and the ambiance nevertheless!

Total Bill for 2 Pax: RM 67.1 / USD 16.02

4. Visit Langkawi Night Market at Kuah Town

After checking in at Bayview Hotel and enjoying the sunset from our room, we visit the Langkawi Night Market (Pekan Kuah Night Market) nearby where we stayed at Kuah Town. Lots of food were sold at the night market, it was bigger and livelier than we imagined!

5. Dine at Langkawi Fish Farm Restaurant

We headed to dinner at Langkawi Fish Farm Restaurant. The setting was very relaxing, the food was good and the price was fairly reasonable. We’ve ordered 3 dishes, 2 bowls of rice and 2 cans of beer.

Prices: Total Bill for 2 pax: RM 139.70 / USD 33.36 

Langkawi Day 2

6. langkawi island hopping tour.

We’ve booked the Langkawi Island Hopping Tour through Klook. It was a shared tour, with about 15 people on the boat. The tour was about 4 hours from 9am to 1pm. The tour brings us to visit Langkawi’s famous lake called Pulau Dayang Bunting ( Lake of the Pregnant Maiden) where we went kayaking. Then we stopped at Pulau Singa Besar for eagle watching from the boat. Lastly, it brought us to Pulau Beras Basah (Wet Rice Island) where we relax on the white sandy beach and enjoy the crystal clear water.

– Langkawi Island Hopping (Shared Speedboat Tour):   RM 40 / USD 9.55 – Adult RM 30 / USD 7.16 – Child *Booked Through Klook (Affiliate Link)

– Tasik Dayang Bunting Entrance Fee RM 6 / USD 1.43 – Adult (RM3 for locals) RM 3 / USD 0.72 – Child (RM1 for locals)

– 1x (Single) Pedal Kayak Rental + 2x Life Jacket (at Task Dayang Bunting) Total paid: RM 30 / USD 7.16

7. Langkawi Sunset Cruise

One of our biggest highlights during our Langkawi trip is the Sunset Cruise! It was an unforgettable experience. We’ve booked the cruise through Shopee, we chose the Manta Blu Cruises .

As the cruise sails along the sea in Langkawi, we get to see the Eagle Square (for photo), had unlimited beers/drinks/wine while enjoying at the deck, enjoy the saltwater “Jacuzzi”, had buffet dinner on board, and watch the sunset at the horizon before heading back to the island.

The whole cruise experience took about 4 hours from 4pm to 8pm. 

– Manta Blu Cruises RM 280 / USD 66.87 – Adult RM 140 / USD 33.43 – Child (Aged 3-11) *We’ve booked through Shopee from a Tour company: https://bit.ly/3RpLikL 

8. Visit Pantai Cenang

After the sunset cruise, we’ve decided to visit Pantai Cenang which is about 30 minutes drive from Kuah. At Pantai Cenang, you get to experience the nightlife of Langkawi . The beach area was crowded and really lively. There are pop-up street markets, dining spots, loud music, and even fire shows. We’ve stopped by for some snacks and a coconut drink at one of the cafes along the beach.

Langkawi Day 3

9. visiting eagle square (dataran lang).

The next morning, we went to Eagle Square. When visiting Langkawi, you should stop by Langkawi’s iconic Eagle Square for a photo session with its Majestic Langkawi icon – the brown eagle!

10. Tanjung Rhu Mangrove Tour

We then head drive to Tanjung Rhu which takes about 30 minutes from Kuah town and arrive at the Tanjung Rhu jetty.

The Tanjung Rhu Mangrove tour was an incredible National Geographic-like experience! We cruised through the Mangrove Forest, watch the eagle feeding session, went through the Crocodile cave (no crocodiles involved, thankfully), take a tour at the bat cave, have a glimpse of the Andaman Sea, and complete the tour by having lunch at the floating restaurant.

– Tanjung Rhu Mangrove Tour: Private Boat for 2-4 pax + Lunch Total Paid: RM 330 / USD 78.81 *We booked our tour through Klook, however the price and package has changed since 🙁  You may book through https://kilimgeoforestpark.com/ or from Shopee (https://bit.ly/3auZEQ8) *For Shopee, we’ve booked our Sunset Dinner Cruise via this travel agent.

11. Enjoy the beach at Tanjung Rhu and staying at Tanjung Rhu Resort

After the Mangrove tour, we checked in at Tanjung Rhu Resort that we’ve booked directly from their official website. We’ve stayed at the Bayu Senja Suite . The private beach at Tanjung Rhu was breathtaking. We book a double kayak from the resort during the evening and enjoyed the sunset as we glide through the waters. We had dinner at the Scarborough Fish and Chips 15 minutes drive away from the resort, but we do wish we stay in the resort instead because the night was beautiful for a romantic dinner at the resort’s restaurant.

– Tanjung Rhu Resort  See below on where we stayed section

– Double Kayak Rental RM 40 / USD 9.55

– Scarborough Fish & Chips Total Bill for 2 pax: RM 163.9 / USD 39.14 (though we actually ordered 3 pax worth of food!)

Langkawi Day 4

12. lunch at nasi dagang pak malau.

On our last day in Langkawi before heading to the airport, we managed to stop by at Nasi Dagang Pak Malau for lunch. This is another dining experience next to the paddy field (a real paddy field). This round, we’re here for the food! The Nasi Dagang was superb! Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for good local dishes.

– Nasi Dagang Pak Malau Total Bill for 2 pax: RM 36 / USD 8.60

Where We Stayed in Langkawi

1. Bayview Hotel Room Type: Premier King Room with Sea View Total Paid: RM 210 / USD 50.15 for 2 nights Booked through Booking.com

2. Tanjung Rhu Resort Room Type: Bayu Senja Suite Total Paid: RM 480 / USD 114.63 for 1 night Booked directly through the official website.

*Do note that all the prices above were the price we’ve paid for and booked during a promotion on covid times. Please check the website and booking agents for the latest price.

How much We’ve Spent in Langkawi

In total for 4D3N, we’ve paid a total of RM3,208.52 for our entire 4 days 3 nights Langkawi Trip for both of us. This includes our flight tickets, grab to KLIA/KLIA2, a budget hotel for two nights, a night stay at a 5-star resort, car rental, attractions, tours, even a sunset cruise, and food. That’s RM1,604.26 per pax !

Let us break it down for you:

• Plane Ticket: AirAsia from KLIA2 to Langkawi, (one way) – RM204.57
• Plane Ticket: MAS from Langkawi to KLIA (one way) – RM159.68
• GrabCar for Airport Transfers from/to KLIA & KLIA2 – RM130.00
• Bayview Hotel (2 Nights) – RM210.00
• Tanjung Rhu Hotel – RM480.00
• Hotel Tourism Fee in Tanjung Rhu Resort – RM5.00
• Car rental: Perodua Axia – RM403.06
• Petrol – RM25.00
• Langkawi Sky Bridge and Skycab RM92.00
• Langkawi Sky Bridge Express Lane – RM100.00
• Langkawi Island Hopping Tour – RM70.00
• Island Hopping Fee at Tasik Dayang Bunting – RM6
• Tasik Dayang Bunting activities – x1 Single Pedal Kayak + x2 Life Jacket – RM30
• Manta Blu Cruises (Sunset Cruise) – RM440.00
• Parking at Pantai Cenang – RM3.00
• Tanjung Rhu Mangrove Tour – RM281.51
• Kayaking at Tanjung Rhu Resort – RM40.00
• Total Food Spent – RM541.00

*Prices may differ as we’ve booked during Promotion for flight tickets, hotels, and using our credits in Klook & Grab.

Cameron Lavender Garden | Cameron Highlands

Staycation at Hilton | Hotel Review, Kuala Lumpur

Heli Lounge Bar | Rooftop Bar, Kuala Lumpur

Cecil Street Market Best Eats | George Town, Penang

Latest post.

• Blackbyrd KL | Things to Do in KL September 22, 2023
• 20 Best Food in Penang | Things to Eat in Penang | Travel Malaysia January 23, 2023
• Things to do in Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser 福隆港) | 2D1N trip Itinerary and Travel Guide January 11, 2023
• 桃源谷饭店Fantasy Valley Restaurant August 27, 2022
• Langkawi Island Hopping Tour July 16, 2022
• Absolute Thai Review – Thai Food April 26, 2022
• Things to Do in Langkawi | 4D3N Itinerary March 21, 2022
• Golden Hills Night Market in Cameron Highlands, Brinchang March 11, 2022
• Cameron Lavender Garden, Tringkap | Cameron Highlands March 9, 2022
• The Sheep Sanctuary | Cameron Highlands March 7, 2022

Social Media

Follow us on:, email: [email protected].

GO LANGKAWI

Planning your trip to langkawi .

Get latest updates, ferry schedule, tickets & book your transportation, tours and attractions all-in-one app.

Plan your Langkawi trip in one app

Discover your next adventure.

Cuti Cuti Langkawi

Plan Your Langkawi trip in one app

An essential app for langkawi passenger ferry users..

Cuti-Cuti Langkawi is an online travel platform established in Langkawi in year 2020, with its headquarter in Langkawi.

Driven by its advance search technology, travel information on internet and mobile clients are integrated by Cuti-Cuti Langkawi to provide professional products and services for travel service providers and travelers at anytime and anywhere. Cuti-Cuti Langkawi extensive network and cooperation with ferry operators in Langkawi allows users to always get the latest information and make their bookings from transportation to travel packages.

As a leading technology company in the online travel industry, Cuti-Cuti Langkawi has massive user travel data, industry-leading product development capabilities, strong capital strength, and extensive network and cooperation with Langkawi Ferry to build an integrated online and offline travel service ecosystem to continuously improve users' experiences.

Download & explore more

We work hard to provide a pleasant experience and value for your holiday. Stay tune and download our latest mobile app. We will bring more exclusive deals & services to you.

• langkawi district

With numerous beaches, lakes, rainforests, and restaurants, these topical islands attract visitors of all ages.

Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah is an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea. By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Langkawi Island. Langkawi is also an administrative district. Langkawi Island was given a World Geopark status by UNESCO. Three of its main conservation areas in Langkawi Geopark are Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest park (Island of the Pregnant Maiden Lake). These three parks are the most popular tourism area within Langkawi Geopark.

Trip Planner - Langkawi

Create your perfect trip to langkawi, malaysia.

Easily plan your trip based on your preferences, budget, and style

Plan your trip with RoutePerfect’s AI and optimize it by using RoutePerfect’s crowdsourced database, based on proven and enjoyable, well-crafted itineraries of thousands of travelers.

Book activities with

tickets & passes

Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi Admission Ticket

Crocodile Adventureland Admission Ticket

Langkawi City Tour with Crocodile and Bird Park Ad...

outdoor activities

Langkawi Adventure Tour : Mangrove Kayaking

7 Days Legends of Langkawi Island & Kuala Lumpur

Scuba Diving Langkawi - Pulau Payar Diving

Private Tour : Langkawi Mangrove Kilim UNESCO Geop...

Langkawi Joy Fishing including Island Hopping Tour

Mangrove Forest Tour Langkawi

Langkawi Sunset Mangrove Kayak

Langkawi Island Hopping Boat Tour with Return Tran...

More to do in Langkawi

art & culture

travel & transportation services

tours, sightseeing & cruises

Top attractions in Langkawi

Regions in malaysia, suggested other itineraries for malaysia, suggested family itineraries for malaysia, suggested friends itineraries for malaysia, suggested romantic itineraries for malaysia.

RoutePerfect uses cookies to improve our content and provide you with a personalized experience. By clicking "Accept All Cookies", you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage and assist in our marketing efforts. Learn more

Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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

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

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

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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

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

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

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

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

Featured city guides.

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > The Best 2 Week Russia Itinerary: What To See & Do In Russia

The Best 2 Week Russia Itinerary: What To See & Do In Russia

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Written by Campbell & Alya of  Stingy Nomads. They’ve traveled together to over 30 countries globally, including Africa, Latin America, Asia & Europe.

For many travelers visiting Russia is an adventure on its own ; with huge countries like Russia, it’s often difficult to decide where to go, how to move around. This two-week Russia itinerary allows you to visit both must-see places and more off-the-beaten paths destinations in Russia.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Best Ways To Move Around Russia

Russia is a vast country for long-distance travel . We’d suggest flying, but budget airline options are quite limited in Russia – so be prepared to shell out some serious Russian Ruble. Also, if you are flying with a local airline, check for their luggage allowance, as it can vary.

For many tourists taking a train in Russia is a must-have experience, especially the Transsiberian or an overnight train from Moscow to St Petersburg . The train system is quite good in general for moving around Russia.

Taking a bus in Russia is also an option, but the costs for a coach are the same as for traveling by train for the same distance and the travel time might be a lot longer and buses, as you know, are much less comfortable.

Renting a car is not very popular for travelers to Russia, as it tends to be a bit of a hassle. There are always lengthy traffic jams, poor road maintenance, and random police inspections. So instead, look to get a private transfer service. 

The Best Two Week Russia Itinerary

Day 1 – 3: st.petersburg.

Russia’s most beautiful and romantic city has a lot to offer, from top world art museums and stunning royal residences to nightlife and shopping.

The best time to visit St.Petersburg is in the summer months of June and July to witness famous White Nights when the city literally doesn’t sleep, and neither do you.

Public transport works quite well in the city with the Metro being the fastest and the easiest way of moving around. One metro trip costs 0,5 Euro. There are hundreds of accommodation options in the city, from hostels to B&Bs and fancy hotels.

St.Petersburg Highlights

• The Hermitage Museum/Winter Palace:  One of the top art museums in the world. It says if you stop at every item (painting, sculpture, or artifact) for 1 second, you’ll need years to finish. In summer, it gets hectic with thousands of people surrounding the main art treasures; Da Vinci, Raphael, Rembrandt’s paintings. Buy your ticket online; it’ll save you a lot of time staying in a long queue outside .
• St. Isaac’s Cathedral: A stunning building crowned with a massive golden dome, inside it’s even more impressive. Not to miss the view from its colonnade, especially at night time.
• Church Of The Savior On Spilled Blood : Probably the most famous and photographed building in the city. Built in the traditional Russian style with many, very similar to the famous St.Basil cathedral on the Red Square in Moscow . Do yourself a favor and go inside; you won’t be disappointed; the interior is impressive, richly decorated in gold, with many fresque paintings.
• The Russian Museum: A great collection of Russian art from old icons to modern painting.
• The Mariinsky Theatre: The main city theatre has three stages; the original one (Old Stage), the Concert Hall, and the Second (modern) stage. All three give performances; ballet, opera, Philharmonic orchestra almost every day.
• Peterhof:  The fountain residence and ex-summer royal residence built as a repetition of Versaille. An impressive palace with golden, hundreds of small and big fountains, a beautiful park, it’s a must-visit place. If you travel with children, they will enjoy a visit there are many joke fountains where they can get soaking wet. Just be sure to bring extra clothes and a towel with you.
• The Catherine Palace and Park:  Another ex-royal summer residence in the southern suburb of St.Petersburg. Catherine Palace is probably the most beautiful palace in the city. The main highlights are the famous restored Amber Room and the Grand Hall.

• White Nights and Drawing Bridges:  These two are strongly associated with each other. White Nights is a fascinating phenomenon when the daylight is basically 24 hours. The shortest night, June 21, in St.Petersburg is less than 2 hours, but in fact , it never gets really dark. Summer is navigation season in the city, the Neva river gets quite busy, but it starts only at night when all the bridges are closed for traffic. The show of opening bridges begins with music and lights between 1 am, and 2 am; thousands of people, locals, and tourists watch it every day.
• St.Petersburg Metro:  Named one of the most beautiful metro systems in the world, and it deserves two hours of your time to explore. The most beautiful metro stations; Admiralteiskaya (the second deepest metro station in the world, 102m), Avtovo, Bukharestskaya, Kirovsky Zavod, Mezhdunarodnaya.

Day 4: Veliky Novgorod

Distance from St.Petersburg 195km takes 2h50min to get here by train.

Located between St.Petersburg and Moscow, the oldest Russian city, founded in 859, is definitely worthy of a day stop, especially for those who like history.

Veliky Novgorod is not a usual stop on any Russia itinerary, but it has many old churches and monasteries . The city is relatively small you can move on foot between the main attractions. To get from the train station take a bus, there is a bus stop in front of it.

You’ll notice that everything here is cheaper than in the capital cities; food, accommodation, souvenirs , and entrance fees. There are three of four hostels and quite a few hotels, both budget, and luxury , in the city.

Veliky Novgorod Highlights

• Novgorod Kremlin (Detinets):  The oldest Kremlin in Russia.
• St.Sophia Cathedral
• Yuriev Monastery
• The Millenium of Russia Monument
• Vitoslavlitsy Museum Of Wooden Architecture

Day 5 – 7: Moscow

Distance from Novgorod 537km takes 8 hours to arrive by night train.

Crazy and bustling Russian capital city is a strange mix of everything; old-style Russian churches neighboring with skyscrapers of Moscow City. Moscow is famous for the terrible traffic; the Metro is the best way to move around the city , it’s cheap, 0,6 Euro per trip, and fast in the rush hours it gets hectic.

There are many hostels, B&Bs and hotels in the city for any budget , the most important thing is to find a place in the city center, or as close to it as possible otherwise you risk spending quite a lot of time commuting.

Moscow Highlights

Like any capital city, there are many things to do and places to see , to explore Moscow you’ll need a lot of time, but you’ll be able to visit its highlights in three days.

• Moscow Kremlin:  The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most famous in the world. The complex is big with a lot to see; Armoury museum, Diamond Fund, the Grand Kremlin Palace, Patriarch Palace, Ivan the Great Bell Tower, Assumption Cathedral, and more.
• Red Square:  Its name doesn’t come from the color as many people think; in old Russian, “red” (Rus. “Krasny”) meant “beautiful.” Most of the central city sights are located on the square. Tip. Come here early morning, at 6 am, and you’ll get the square all to yourself without the crowds.
• St. Basil’s Cathedral: A favorite tourist attraction, its colorful domes and strange, vivid decoration contrast with traditional Russian churches found all over the city. It was built in the 16th century during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. City legend says that the cathedral architects were blinded to make sure they would not be able to build anything similar ever again.
• The Tretyakov Gallery:  The most significant collection of Russian art from to XX century. The building itself is fascinating.
• The Novodevichy Convent and Cemetery: The convent was founded in 1524 by Vasili III; during its history hosted many ladies from the Russian royal family who were forced to take the veil.
• Kolomenskoye:  Located 12km from Moscow, this complex consists of many buildings representing different eras of traditional Russian architecture; the White Column of Kolomenskoye, the Wooden Palace, Church of John the Baptist, Church of Our Lady of Kazan, etc. This trip takes half of a day .
• Moscow Metro: 212 stations with a total route length of 360km; it is the sixth-longest metro system in the world. But it is not just the size that is most impressive – it is also about its beauty.  Some stations look like palaces. The most spectacular stations are Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya, and Ploshchad’ Revolyutsii. The best time to explore the Moscow metro is Saturday and Sunday morning.

Day 8 – 9: Kazan

Distance from Moscow 825km takes 11 hours to get by night train.

Kazan is very different from St.Petersburg and Moscow, and visiting it will give you a more complete picture of Russia.

The city is becoming a new tourist attraction in Russia; in the last years, its infrastructure was improved significantly with FIFA World Cup games taking place here, the city got a new stadium and even a new metro. However, it’s relatively small and has only ten stations.

Kazan has the largest Muslim population in Russia, an interesting place to come, a unique mix of European and Asian traditions and culture. Due to recent significant sports events, many hostels and budget hotels were recently opened in the city.

Kazan Highlights

• Kazan Kremlin:  Don’t be surprised, there is a Kremlin in every old Russian town. In fact, the Moscow Kremlin is one of the youngest out of all of them, although the most famous one.
• Kul Sharif Mosque:  The biggest mosque in Russia.
• Millenium Park of Kazan
• Epiphany Cathedral and The Bell Tower
• Syuyumbike Leaning Tower

Day 10 – 12: Sochi

Distance from Kazan 2000km, there are three flights per week, duration 2h40min.

A subtropical sea city might be the last most people imagine when thinking of Russia.

The city is busy all year round; in summer, many locals come here seeking sea and sun; in winter, it welcomes ski and snowboard enthusiasts, mainly from the capital cities. The local infrastructure and hospitality service was improved quite a lot for the Winter Olympic Games.

There are many hotels and resorts in the city for holiday travelers, but it’s possible to find a hostel, price from 5 Euro per dorm bed. Chilling on the beach (though it’s rocky), swimming in warm water, hiking to the waterfalls , or exploring the nearby subtropical forest, all these you can do here.

Sochi Highlights

• Sochi Botanical Garden
• Olympic Sochi Park
• Krasnaya Polyana
• Aquapark Amphibius
• Caucasian Biosphere Reserve

Day 13: Sochi to St.Petersburg, Train/Flight

The longest distance traveled on this trip , 2339km. A train journey takes almost two days, usually two nights and one full day. For a comfortable ride, take the Severnaya Palmira train; it has AC, wi-fi, personal power outlets, showers, hot water boiler, and includes a hot meal. A flight is a better option if you have some extra cash; there are three daily flights between two cities, duration 3h10min.

Day 14: St.Petersburg

On the last day, you can relax, do souvenir shopping , wander around the city or maybe visit more city attractions. As an alternative to the standard sights and tours, you can do a roof tour or visit one of the modern art museums , e.g., Street Art museum, Erarta.

Brands We Use And Trust

Move this adventure to your inbox & get an instant freebie.

No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Russia Travel Planning Tips

To move around the country take night trains this way you save time by traveling at night and save money on accommodation. Night trains have bunk beds and are comfortable enough for sleeping.

In big cities Moscow, St.Petersburg, Kazan, Couchsurfing is quite popular if you’d like to get some insider tips and meet locals , it’s a great way to do it.

Buy train tickets online on the official Russian Railways website – it’s easy you can choose your seats and best price range, it’s easier than trying to explain all these at a ticket office.

Download Google Translator as it works well with Russian – English language combination and translates even written text if you scan it.

How To Get To Russia

Flying to russia.

This is the fastest way to get the most out of any Russia itinerary.

More than likely, your flight will arrive in Moscow as it has the best air connection with international destinations . If you have a connecting flight to catch in Moscow: make sure your arrival and departure airport are not the same. There are three airports in the city , and sometimes all operate local and international flights, and to commute between them is a nightmare even at night.

Your second option is to fly into St.Petersburg. Numerous international airlines arrive and depart there. If you have a choice, choose this one, as it’s an easier option. There is only one airport and to get to the city center by public transport only takes 30-40min.

Taking A Train To Russia

Several train routes connect St.Petersburg and Moscow with some European capitals; Helsinki, Berlin, Warsaw, Vienna, Prague, Tallinn; most of them depart once a week , except Helsinki and Tallinn, these go every day. Prices are between 30 Euro and 250 Euro, depending on the distance.

Russia  By Bus

It’s an option if you come from one of the nearby countries; many buses connect St.Petersburg with Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Belarus . Bus tickets are usually relatively cheap, from 10 Euro.

Arriving To Russia By Sea

This option is basically limited to St.Petersburg; several cruises go to Scandinavian countries , Finland and Estonia, and make a stop here; ferries passengers are allowed to stay within St.Petersburg without a visa for 72 hours.

More Russia Travel Blogs

• What’s So Great About Russia? Know Before You Go!
• Traditional Food In Russia You have a Try

Comments (21)

thanks for sharing,pictures are really cool

I appreciate for your blog post, Thanks for sharing.

Nice Blog, I have been Russia in the month of August and I indeed such a beautiful country it is, will consider this to visit it again.

Nice Blog, I hope I have a chance to go to Russia.

Did any of your hotels register you during your stay ?

Yes, all of them had to back when I went – maybe rules are different now.

This two week experience is the finest experience for every new travelers who want to go for Russia. Thanks

This is a very nice itinerary that enables you to explore the country in just a few days. Thank you for giving us transport at a glance, this enables people plan better.

Really enjoyed this, thanks for the information you provided here!

Very nice Itinerary! It cover the best travel essential in Russia. Great Photography Too.

great blog…….i loved russia

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing