places to visit around malaysia

Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

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

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

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

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

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

Kuala Kangsar

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

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

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

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

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

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

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

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

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redang Island

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

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

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

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

Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

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

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

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

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

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

Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

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

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

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

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

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By Sharon Gourlay

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

Wow, Very beautiful places I must visit this year. Love from Pakistan

It’s worth it!

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Wander-Lush

Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Unmissable Destinations

Where to go in Malaysia – 30 of the very best places to visit in Malaysia, as recommended by locals and travel experts.

From the steel-and-glass metropolis of KL to the jungles of Borneo, Malaysia has to be one of the most diverse countries in Asia.

Visitors drawn in by Malaysia’s legendary national parks and tropical islands usually find the food culture , street art and layered history is reason enough to linger a little longer.

Despite having visited Malaysia half a dozen times, I’ve still only scratched the surface of this diverse nation. To help with curating this list of the best places to visit in Malaysia, I asked a group of experienced travellers and locals to share their recommendations.

This guide explores some of the best things to do in Malaysia for every interest, travel style and budget. From must-see cities to small towns, cultural sites and religious monuments to hiking and ethical wildlife encounters, the best beaches, islands and resorts, this list has something for everyone.

If we’ve forgotten to include your favourite place in Malaysia, please let us know in the comments!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

How to get around Malaysia

I use Bookaway to reserve bus and train tickets when I travel in Malaysia. You can use the site to check up-to-date routes and times and compare prices between different companies. Online payment is secure and it’s easy to change or cancel your tickets if plans change.

→ Check timetables and book tickets online through Bookaway .

Where to go in Malaysia: Cities & culture

Kuala lumpur.

Anyone who’s wondering where to go in Malaysia will inevitably wind up incorporating Kuala Lumpur into their itinerary. Malaysia’s capital city is simply a must-see for first-time visitors. The scale of the city will blow you away.

KL has the glossy veneer of a big, anonymous city, but beneath the surface, it’s a hotbed of history, culture and cuisine. Whether you only have time for a short layover in KL or you’re planning an extended stay, there are a couple of things you need to check off your list.

The first is the iconic Petronas Towers . Viewed from the park below, they cut an immaculate figure against the inky blue night sky and define KL’s urban horizon. Take a trip up to the viewing deck (advance reservations essential – book tickets here ) for a magnificent view of the city.

Spend a few hours wandering the Central Market and Chinatown precinct (be sure to visit Petaling Street and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple ), both lively destinations for shopping, eating and socialising. Save some of your pennies for KL’s beautiful boutique gift shops, including Batik Boutique where you can find gorgeous handmade souvenirs . A stop at the National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara) and the nearby Islamic Arts Museum is another must-do.

When night falls, head to the Jalan Alor Night Food Court and see how many Malaysian delicacies you can squeeze in. If you have more time, there are dozens of convenient day trip opportunities from KL – keep reading to discover the best of the best!

George Town (Penang)

Possibly Malaysia’s most popular tourist destination, George Town is the biggest city and capital of Penang island. There are three things George Town is best known for: Street food , street art , and vibrant laneways dotted with heritage architecture .

You could easily spend a week or more in George Town exploring the UNESCO Heritage Listed Old Town , which consumes the eastern end of the island. Stroll down the iconic Penang five-foot ways and step back in history, keeping an eye out for Ernest Zacharevic’s best murals along the way. Join a food tour to sample the best Penang eats – there are simply too many to list here – and immerse yourself in the local craft scene at the Batik Painting Museum .

Other must-sees include Cheong Fatt Tze (The Blue Mansion) and the nearby Goddess of Mercy Temple . Climb Penang Hill for an epic view of the island. Set aside an evening for Chew Jetty , a laid-back waterside clan community where you can get a small taste of what Penang must have been like during its heyday as a Straights trading hub.

The quieter cousin of George Town, Ipoh boasts many of the same virtues – amazing street art, historic laneways and architecture, a fantastic hawker market scene – only without the crowds of Penang.

The capital of central Malaysia’s Perak state, Ipoh is a captivating city that oozes history and charm from the cracks in the plasterwork and flaking shutters of its buildings. Walk the Ipoh Heritage Trail , a mapped route that takes in 27 of the city’s most important landmarks, including the British Colonial railway station , to peel back the layers of Ipoh’s history.

Some of the best things to do in Ipoh revolve around eating and drinking. Malaysia’s iconic white coffee , an iced drink made with coffee beans soaked in margarine, was born here in Ipoh and is served in sweet little local cafes across the city. Ipoh Bean Sprout Chicken is a must-try for dinner and can be found at any of the hawker markets.

While you’re pounding the pavement, keep an eye out for the large-scale murals painted by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic (the same man responsible for George Town’s street art). Hundreds of smaller works by local artists and collectives are sprinkled throughout the city, concentrated around Mural Art’s Lane .

Beyond the city limits, Ipoh gives way to the lush landscapes of Perak, with its thick rainforest and limestone caves . Mirror lakes and hidden temples are waiting to be explored via walking tracks – including the magnificent Perak Cave Temple .

Capital of Malaysian Borneo’s semi-autonomous Sarawak state, Kuching has a lovely laid-back feel. The Kuching Waterfront precinct sprawls out along the beautiful Kuching river, reflecting the golden roof of the New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building .

Dilapidated shophouses, curling alleyways and eclectic architecture define Kuching’s centre. Wander the brightly painted alleyways around India Street , with their fabric vendors and fragrant spice markets, and spot orang-utan-themed street art by Ernest Zacharevic .

Like all Malaysian cities, Kuching has a great food scene. Choon Hui Cafe is a local institution – the prawn laksa and popiah ( Fujianesespring roll) are both must-eats. Other dishes to try in Kuching include kolo mee (yellow noodles cooked Kuching-style) and Sarawak laksa .

Culture lovers will appreciate Kuching’s excellent museums. The Museum of Sarawak , which catalogues Iban culture, Textile Museum and Tun Jugah Collection , a private collection of hand-woven textiles displayed alongside Iban artefacts, are all worth the ticket price. For the perfect Kuching souvenir , look for Iban black-and-white rattan mats and other Bornean antiques in Kuching’s Main Bazaar .

Kuching is a departure point for exploring Sarawak’s natural beauty and Iban culture, with river boat rides, longhouse homestays and jungle treks all within a few hours of the city. Don’t miss Semenggoh Nature Reserve (more on that later), a wonderful orang-utan sanctuary just outside Kuching.

Kota Kinabalu

Recommended by Khushboo, Munni of All Trades

The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu – or KK as it’s fondly known – is considered the gateway city for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Borneo. However, it’s fast emerging as a popular tourist destination in its own right.

To experience the true beauty of Kota Kinabalu, you must visit the Jesselton Point Waterfront . It’s perfect for anyone who’s looking for delicious local food and scenic views. Tourists also have the option to take a ferry to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park or one of the five islands that are just 15 minutes away. Sipping on a beer in a local cafe at Jesselton as you watch the sun set or enjoying karaoke with friends is a wonderful way to end the day after your island trip.

The Mari Mari Cultural Village is a great place for anyone looking to experience Sabah’s rich heritage. During your half-day trip to Mari Mari, you can witness traditional dance performances, hunting and fishing practices practiced by the region’s five ethnic groups: Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, Murut and Dusun.

For adventure enthusiasts, a hike to Mount Kinabalu is of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu . The hikes are often overbooked so it is advisable to make a reservation in advance. Be sure to spend an evening by the iconic city mosque, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu , where you can enjoy some peace and solitude.

A convenient day trip from Kuala Lumpur , Melaka (Malacca) is a historic port city set on Malaysia’s southwestern coast. With its layers of Malay, Nyonya, Portuguese, Dutch and English heritage, Melaka perfectly captures Malaysia’s multicultural spirit and multifaceted history.

Start in the Dutch-era Stadthuys square , Melaka’s most recognisable landmark. The 1753-built Christ Church stands proudly at top of the square, surrounded by a flurry of colourful vendors and cafes organised around beautifully manicured gardens. The cacophony of food, souvenir and bric-a-brac stalls continues down Jonker Street . If you’re wondering what to eat in Melaka, Nyonya Laksa is the best local dish to sink your teeth into.

Above the waterfront, St. Paul’s Church and Famosa Fort offer interesting ruins and panoramic viewpoints. The Melaka Straits Mosque , which juts out into the water on a narrow peninsular, is one of the most beautiful mosques in all of Malaysia.

Recommended by Sharon, Dive into Malaysia

For somewhere off the tourist trail with plenty of local charm, visit Taiping! Located near the west coast of peninsular Malaysia close to Penang, Taiping is easy to visit by train or bus from Kuala Lumpur or anywhere in the western region of Malaysia.

Taiping itself has similar charms to Penang with street art, great food and colonial architecture , but without the crowds. It was one of the first cities to be established in Malaysia and has many firsts – the first railway station, first museum, first post office, first wet market and more.

A trip to Taiping should start with a walk around the central colonial area to see the well-preserved architecture while looking out for street art. Next stop is Muzium Perak to learn more about this part of Malaysia. Finally, finish at Taman Tasik Taiping , Taiping’s famous gardens. These 64-hectares of lagoons and grassland are a great place to relax, look out for monitor lizards or take a paddle on a paddleboat. Read more about Taiping here.

The most delicious way to cool down from the heat is at Ansari Famous Cendol for one of Malaysia’s best shaved ice treats. To taste many of the local dishes, head to Pusat Makanan Taman Tasik , a popular foodcourt by the lake.

For a comfortable place to stay in a central location, try the Louis Hotel .

Bukit Mertajam

By Marco Ferrarese, Penang Insider

Everybody goes to UNESCO-listed George Town on Penang island for an overdose of food and street art. Few people realise that right across the Penang bridge, the town of Bukit Mertajam in Seberang Prai, the mainland part of Penang state, has plenty of interesting stuff to do as well.

Bukit Mertajam is an offbeat, beautiful town with strong ties to the local Chinese triads (yes, the local mafia). Set next to the hill of the same name, there’s hiking galore in Cherok Tokun reserve .

The old town of Bukit Mertajam, developed around the Pek Kong Cheng temple (sadly partially destroyed by fire in 2019), has a lot of great food. Try BM Best Cendol (self-titled as such, and for good reason) and the ‘Black Man Rojak’, a praised local stall selling Malaysian rojak – pieces of tropical fruit drenched in thick, black sweet-sour sauce. Also try the famous BM Cup Rice, which dishes up delicious duck and pork meat with local rice.

Don’t forget to look around – Bukit Mertajam’s old town has decrepit, old-world buildings that are much more authentic than Penang’s gentrified boutique hotels and cookie-cutter cafes.

There are many opportunities to get out and about in nature near Bukit Mertajam. For starters, you can try the Cherok Tokun hiking trail that leads to the TV towers on top of Bukit Mertajam. Take a stroll at Bukit D.O. , a nature park for local hiking enthusiasts. Pay a visit to St. Anne’s Church , an important pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over India and Southeast Asia who come here to celebrate every year at the end of July.

During Malaysia’s nation-wide Hungry Ghost Festival , Bukit Mertajam hosts the tallest statue of the King of Hell Tay Su Yeah.

Penang’s gentrification? Please leave it across the Penang bridge and come to Bukit Mertajam for a timeless Malaysian experience.

Kuala Kangsar

Located in central Malaysia’s Perak state, the town of Kuala Kangsar is an easy day trip from Ipoh by train. Known as the ‘royal city’, it served as the seat for the Shah of Perak between 1877 and 1887.

Ubudiah Mosque is considered one of Malaysia’s most distinctive mosques and is reason enough to take a trip to KK. Designed by British architect Arthur Benison Hubback (also responsible for Kuala Lumpur’s railway station), it’s defined by golden domes and towering palm trees. The bands of colour on the facade are created from Italian marble. When the mosque was being built, it’s rumoured that two of the Sultan’s elephants damaged some of the marble tiles, delaying construction!

Apart from the mosque, KK boasts a number of other distinctive landmarks, making it an architecture-lover’s paradise. The Istana Kenangan , a distinctive building that houses the Royal Museum of Perak, Baitul Anor , a decrepit mansion house that was once home to Perak’s prince, and turn-of-the-century-built Victoria Bridge are just some of the highlights.

Recommended by Sonakshi and Mainak, Places In Pixel

Putrajaya is the present federal administrative centre of the Malaysian Government. Being only 35 km from KL city centre, it can easily be explored as a day trip from KL .

The most sought-after place to visit in Putrajaya is the Putra Mosque . Its nickname, the ‘pink mosque’, comes from the rose-tinted granite. Putra Mosque’s Islamic-architecture artistically blends traditional designs, local craftsmanship and the use of indigenous materials. As with any mosque, modest dress is essential if you want to enter the prayer hall and enjoy the elegantly designed interiors.

No trip to Putrajaya is complete without taking a tour of the Perdana Putra complex , which houses the Prime Minister’s Office and other administrative offices. Although visitors are not allowed to go inside, it’s free to admire the exterior and gardens (which includes a couple of Instagrammable spots!).

Other interesting things to do in Putrajaya include driving the beautiful Seri Wawasan Bridge , enjoying the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta , visiting the Putrajaya Botanical Garden , and the Steel Mosque . For adventure seekers, Putrajaya lake offers multiple outdoor activities including stand-up paddle boarding, water jetting and flyboarding.

Johor Bahru

Recommended by Ania, The Travelling Twins

If you want a bit more modern city life before diving back into the jungle or exploring Malaysia’s beaches, Johor Bahru makes for an interesting change from Kuala Lumpur. The city is located right down in the south of the mainland peninsula, on the border with Singapore .

And indeed Johor Bahru could be called Malaysia’s answer to Singapore. It is set up to attract visitors from the neighbouring city state with much of the sparkle, but at much lower prices. Excellent shopping and fabulous restaurants are what JB is known for.

If you want to go from JB to Singapore itself, then it’s just a 45-minute bus ride away. But don’t just pass through – this place is a destination in its own right.

With Legoland Malaysia and Hello Kitty Town both in close proximity, this is a great destination for families with young kids.

Batu Caves in Selangor, just north of KL, can be counted among Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations. As well as being rather Instagram-friendly, this is an extremely important spiritual pilgrimage site. I recommend visiting with a local guide to make the most of the experience.

The limestone cave complex is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity. In late January/early February, the Hindu Thaipusam festival is celebrated here. If you can brave the heat and humidity, this is the perfect time to visit.

Outside of festival time, visitors can explore the largest cave, Temple Cave , accessible via 270 steps (now painted in a rainbow of colours). The towering gold statue of Murugan is the tallest of its kind in the world.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Recommended by Rose, Where Goes Rose

Buddhist Kek Lok Si Temple on the island of Penang is yet more proof of Malaysia’s diversity. While there are Hindu and Taoist temples, mosques and churches in the nearby city of George Town, this iconic temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over Southeast Asia. 

Built in 1980, Kek Lok Si is home to temples, statues, prayer halls and towers with impressive views over Penang. You could easily spend a half-day exploring the complex. Don’t miss the three-storey shrine (as the tallest building for miles around, it would be hard to), donated by King Bhumibol of Thailand. Here there’s a vegetarian restaurant as well as a few shops. You also have the option to pay 3 MYR to catch a lift to the enormous Kuan Yin female goddess statue.

An ideal time to visit Kek Lok Si is for Chinese New Year celebrations in February when the whole temple is illuminated by strobe lights and a firework show takes place.

It takes just 30 minutes to reach Kek Lok Si Temple from George Town by bus or taxi. The nearest town is Air Itam, where you should stop afterwards for a bowl of assam laksa at Pasar Air Itam Laksa , voted one of the best foods in the world by CNN.

Where to go in Malaysia: Nature, adventure & wildlife

Cameron highlands.

Recommended by Luke, The Coastal Campaign

Cameron Highlands is a spectacular part of the Malaysian hill country covered in lush green tea fields. Visitors come here to see the beautiful mountain scenery and to enjoy the cooler temperatures that comes with the higher elevation.

The number one thing to do in Cameron Highlands is visit a tea plantation and enjoy a cup of the local brew. One of the most popular choices is the BOH Tea Plantation , and that’s because the tasting room has spectacular views from the veranda perched on the hillside. Visitors can also enjoy hikes in the surrounding jungle, the local farmers’ markets , and a walk through the enchanting Mossy Forest .

After a full day of exploring, try Restoran Kumar which serves delicious Indian-style food for very reasonable prices. It’s found in the town of Tanah Rata.

Cameron Highlands is a beautiful part of the country with unique scenery and climate compared to the rest of Malaysia and is absolutely worth visiting.

Teman Negara

Recommended by Stephen, Asia-Hikes

Taman Negara (literally ‘National Park’) is the first protected area in Malaysia, established in 1939, and one of the oldest deciduous rainforests in the world . Easy to visit as a weekend away from Kuala Lumpur (but worthy of a month of exploring in its own right), this expanse of more than 4,300 square kilometres has options for every traveller.

Laid-back weekenders out of Kuala Lumpur might opt for easy exploring – boat rides and short hikes to remote jungle waterfall, Lata Berkoh , canopy walks high in the treetops, or just relaxing at the luxurious Mutiara Taman Negara Resort , which offers guided interpretive walks on the in-house boardwalk.

More adventurous travellers might opt for two to three-day guided hiking in Taman Negara , overnighting in the famous ‘Elephant Cave’ and slipping along muddy jungle trails and through countless streams. For the ultimate Taman Negara adventure, consider the strenuous weeklong round trip to the top of Gunung Tahan , the highest point of Peninsular Malaysia at 2,187 metres.

Almost all tourist services, including restaurants and accommodations, are based in the village of Kuala Tahan across the Tembaling river from the entrance to Taman Negara. A wide range of budget and mid-range accommodation options are available, and a plethora of tour operators make it easy to book guided hikes and other excursions on-site.

Gunung Mulu National Park

Recommended by Oksana and Max, Drink Tea & Travel

Gunung Mulu National Park is one of Malaysia’s true gems. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extensive underground cave network and unique mountain peaks.

Mulu Caves is the longest cave system in the world by surface area. Take some time to explore the Lang Cave, Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, Wind Cave and Lady Cave. They each have their own unique attributes such as rock formations, coral structures, and interesting patches of habitat.

At Deer Cave, you can see the mass bat exodus . From 5pm to 7pm each day, bats numbering in the thousands leave the cave at the same time in search of food from the forest. There is a viewing platform and the event can last for 45 minutes.

Outside of the caves, Gunung Mulu National Park is famous for the Mulu Pinnacles , a series of otherworldly limestone formations that require a three-day hike to reach. It is a somewhat difficult hike, but well worth the exertion.

Recommended by Rachita, Nomllers

Safely tucked away on the largest island in Asia, Sabah is a relatively unexplored destination in Malaysia. Sabah is home to more than 32 different ethnic groups and is a great place to learn more about local culture. Apart from that, Sabah is also quite well-known for its rainforests, beaches, and abundant wildlife . Most of the state is covered with reserves or parks.

When visiting Sabah, make sure you try a few local dishes such as Tuaran noodles, Butod, Roti Cobra, and a lot more. While the best local food is served at homestays , you have to try Roti Cobra at Kedai Makan Islamic Restoran in Kota Kinabalu . It is simply delicious.

Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia and is a popular hiking spot. If you’re interested in exploring the coral reefs , then head to the nearby islands for a fun diving experience. And if you’re a nature lover, then a visit to Kinabalu Park , Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must.

From climbing Mount Kinabalu to meeting headhunting warriors and nomadic sea gypsies, Sabah is a place you won’t soon forget.

Danum Valley

Recommended by James Ian, Travel Collecting

Danum Valley is an area of virgin rainforest in the Sabah area of Malaysian Borneo. While much of the island has been deforested in order to create palm oil plantations, the Danum Valley Conservation Area has been protected.

There are only two places to stay – the Danum Valley Field Center, just outside the area, offers basic accommodation and limited guides. The second option, Borneo Rainforest Lodge , is smack bang in the middle of the virgin rainforest. Rates include meals served inside the beautiful, open lodge that faces a forested escarpment.

Danum Valley is one of the best places in Borneo to witness Malaysia’s incredible flora and wildlife. Highlights include guided hikes to lookouts, waterfalls, and a small river where fish come and nibble your feet (great for exfoliation!), a canopy walk built through the tops of trees (with excellent chances of seeing orang-utans and hornbills ), and a night drive in the back of a truck with a powerful spotlight (possible sightings include giant flying squirrels, lemurs and even cloud leopards ).

Gua Tempurung

Recommended by Iuliya, Vidadeliya

Gua Tempurung is something of a ‘secret’ spot, even among Malaysians. Tucked away in Gopeng, Perak – some 3 hours’ drive from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur – Gua Tempurung is the largest limestone cave in West Malaysia .

The best thing to do is join one of four caving tours . If you’re particularly adventurous, try the epic 4-hour long Grand Tour. This not only takes you through the incredible limestone stalactites and stalagmites, but also deep into the belly of a cave once used as a communist hideaway. You will have to crawl through narrow cave rivers, climb steep slopes and slide down ledges, all in the pitch dark! For a full account of what it’s like, check out this blog post . 

If caving doesn’t take your fancy, there are many other things you can do nearby, including whitewater rafting , jungle trekking (to search for the ever-elusive Rafflesia!), or waterfall abseiling .

For food, the foodie hub of Ipoh is a mere 30-minutes away. Top choices include the local salty chicken and taufufa , a sweet tofu-based dessert.

Recommended by Marya, The BeauTraveler

Situated in the Kelabit Highlands near the Indonesian border in East Kalimantan, Bario is a small community of 13 to 16 indigenous Kelabit villages . If you’re looking for a remote place to experience authentic indigenous culture, Bario is a great choice.

Bario may be less popular than other destinations in Sarawak, such as Niah Cave or Gunung Mulu, but it’s no less interesting. Organise your accommodation at one of the longhouses and immerse yourself in the local culture during your stay in town. Some accommodations include meals in the booking package, so you can taste the local food provided by your host.

A great time to visit Bario is in June/July, when the area hosts Pesta Nukenan , a showcase of local food and culture.

Travelling overland takes days, thus flights from Miri, Marudi or Kuching are the most convenient way to get to Bario. Before you go, make sure you have enough cash with you since there’s no ATM available (there’s no phone or internet connection either).

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Semenggoh Nature Reserve on the outskirts of Kuching is one of the most accessible places in Malaysia to see semi-wild orang-utans. If you want a quick taste of the Borneo jungle, this is a perfect half-day trip.

Established in the 70s, the patch of rainforest is home to more than 30 endangered orang-utans , all orphaned or rescued from captivity. The centre trains them to survive in the wild.

A tightly controlled viewing area is open twice daily at 9am and 3pm. Carers provide fruit to entice the orang-utans – but whether or not they surface from the thickets is entirely up to them. The best time to visit Semenggoh is during the fruiting season. We went in August and saw half a dozen orang-utans.

Semenggoh is located just 30 kilometres from Kuching and is easy to reach by car or taxi.

Where to go in Malaysia: Islands & beaches

Recommended by Cathy, Mummy Travels

This beautiful tropical island in the north of Malaysia might be small – you could drive around it in just 3 hours – but Langkawi has plenty to tempt visitors, from glorious golden beaches to the wildlife of its lush jungle.

The biggest attractions are the Skycab and Skybridge . The world’s steepest cable car takes you from the Oriental Village complex to a bridge suspended 100 metres in the air for amazing views across the island. If you’re feeling energetic, you can trek partway.

Along with its other attractions, Oriental Village is home to Art in Paradise , Langkawi’s 3D art museum, the biggest of its kind in Malaysia, where you can pose with artwork designed to trick the eye. Huge fun, it’s also ideal during rainy season or as a way to escape the heat.

But Langawki’s biggest attractions are natural. Take a boat tour through the mangroves of the protected Kilim Geoforest park , see bats roosting in Gua Kelawar cave , eagles soaring above the karst peaks , and head out to some of the smaller islands.

Not to forget the beaches: the white sands of Tanjung Rhu are among the loveliest, busy Pantai Cenang is great for water sports and beach bars, while minerals turn the sand of Pantai Pisar Hitam black.

Port Dickson

Recommended by Allison, Urbanite Diary

Port Dickson is a coastal town about 1.5 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur. One of the country’s most popular beach destinations due to its proximity to the capital, the English name originated from the British High Officer, Sir John Frederick Dickson, who was posted at the Straits Settlement during the end of the 19th century.

Top things to do here include a visit to the many beaches along the coastal road. Teluk Kemang is the most popular one, and due to the street market located right in front of it, the most crowded. Other famous sites to visit are the Cape Rachado Lighthouse , the oldest lighthouse in Malaysia built by the Portuguese, as well as the Wan Loong Temple , an ornate Chinese Temple that pays homage to several oriental deities, such as the Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) and the Monkey King. For family travellers with kids, the Port Dickson Army Museum is an interesting place to visit.

Being so close to the sea, Port Dickson has some great seafood restaurants for foodies. Local favourites include Weng Yin Seafood Village, Chardin Seaview Restaurant and Double Queue Thai Cuisine.

Last but not least, one of the highlights of Port Dickson is staying in an overwater chalet . Although the sea water here is not as pristine as some of the other beach destinations in Malaysia, it is still an enjoyable experience to look out to the sea from your room while listening to the sound of the waves. Recommended hotels are Avillion Port Dickson and Lexis Hibiscus .

Sipadan Island

Recommended by Campbell and Alya, Stingy Nomads

Sipadan island in Borneo is the top dive spot in Malaysia and often rated as one of the best places to dive in the world .

Surrounding the island, there is a massive coral wall close to shore that drops 300 metres straight down. Strong currents flowing past the reef bring sharks, big pelagic fish and unreal marine life, creating an amazing wall dive.

This is an incredibly biodiverse spot with huge green turtles , big schools of massive bumphead parrot fish, big eye trevally, and reef sharks hunting in the area. The island’s most famous dive site is Barracuda Point , where you are often engulfed by massive schools of barracuda.

All these incredible marine animals swim close to shore and in the past, divers could walk from their hotel room and jump from the beach into this amazing natural aquarium. If you’re not a diver, Sipadan also offers fantastic snorkelling .

The Malaysian government has taken bold steps to preserve this diving mecca and the island. Since 2004, only divers with the necessary permits are allowed on the island. All resorts were relocated to nearby islands, and only 178 divers per day are granted permits. This is policed and strictly enforced.

Sipadan is very popular, so book your accommodation and diving from the nearby island, Mabul, ahead of time.

Perhentian Islands

Recommended by Lotte, Phenomenal Globe

The beautiful Perhentian Islands are located just off Malaysia’s northeast coast. The largest islands are Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, but there are several small, uninhabited islands in this amazing archipelago as well.

For adventurous travellers, diving in the Perhentian Islands will be an unforgettable experience as the underwater world here is spectacular. If you don’t want to go scuba diving, consider snorkelling instead. There are several (short) hiking trails on Perhentian Kecil , just be sure to bring plenty of water as it gets very hot and humid, especially between April and June.

Coral Bay is located on the west side of Perhentian Kecil and is the perfect place to admire the sunset while enjoying a cocktail on the beach at one of the restaurants or bars. For food, there is no better place to eat fresh seafood (often barbecued). Be sure to try some freshly caught fish during your stay.

If you choose Perhentian Kecil as your base, BuBu Resort is a great place to stay. At Perhentian Besar, the Tuna Bay Island Resort is an excellent option.

Redang Island

Recommended by Kirsten, Sand in My Curls

There are many reasons to visit Malaysia , and Redang Island is definitely one of them. Pulau Redang is one of those postcard-perfect islands with bright white sand and warm azure water.

Located off the east coast of Malaysia and part of the Coral Triangle between Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Indonesia, it’s a global centre for marine biodiversity. No trip would be complete without snorkelling or scuba diving . You can learn to scuba or get started with a discovery dive.

But there are more than just water activities available on the island.

Head to the Taaras Resort for a visit to the SEATRU Turtle Lab . Here, you’ll learn all about the turtle life cycle, predators, and how the lab measures the gentle creatures. April to October is hatching season and the perfect time to see the baby turtles being released into the sea. 

The interior of the island is packed with jungle, and there are a bunch of hiking routes choose from. Most aren’t that difficult and will only take a couple of hours. If you’re lucky, you’ll see rare plants, monitor lizards, monkeys and all sorts of colourful birds.

The best place to eat in Redang is at the Laguna Food Court , where you can sample local delicacies at affordable prices. Be sure to try the fish head curry – it’s a favourite in Malaysia.

Tioman Island

By Vivien and Aaron, The Dharma Trails

Tioman Island is located off Malaysia’s east coast and is accessible by ferry. It’s a perfect getaway for anyone interested in eco travel due to its natural beauty and abundant wildlife .

Apart from the stunning beaches and amazing coral reefs, there are jungle walking trails and waterfall hikes that offer unique insight into the tropical flora and fauna.

Alternatively, you can relax on the beach with an ice-cold beer and enjoy some of the great local restaurants. Be sure to check out Golden Dish Cafe , who grow their own organic vegetables, use locally caught fish, and can also whip up some traditional, herbal drinks with medicinal properties.

The Juarta Turtle Project at Mentawak Beach works with the local community to educate and protect marine life. They offer volunteering experiences for those willing to stay a while.

Where to go in Malaysia: Resorts

Avani sepang goldcoast resort, sepang.

Recommended by Stephanie, History Fangirl

The gorgeous town of Sepang is home to the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort , which has the distinction of being one of the least expensive overwater bungalow resorts anywhere in the world.

Located on the coast roughly halfway between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, it’s the perfect place for couples and solo travellers looking to relax and rejuvenate. If you are a spa lover, check into the resort and soak up all the amenities. Schedule yourself a few treatments so you can take full advantage of your surroundings.

If you want to explore Sepang itself, visit the beautiful nearby mosque, or enjoy a mangrove river cruise . Make sure you set aside some time to see the absolutely stunning sunsets over the water. They are some of the most vibrant anywhere in the world.

You can get to Sepang from Kuala Lumpur by bus, train, or by hiring a private driver.

Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands

Recommended by Sandy and Vyjay, Voyager

Resorts World Genting is an integrated leisure centre on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali, about 55 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. It’s a favourite holiday getaway popular among locals as well as tourists.

Resorts World Genting is a collection of premium hotels, resorts, shopping arcades, theme parks, and restaurants. It is a complete leisure and entertainment destination that also has the advantage of enjoying pleasant temperatures throughout the year. One of the largest hotels in the world, the First World Hotel , is located inside.

Some of the top things to do in Genting include a visit to the Chin Swee Temple , a virtual reality experience at The Void , and the Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park. Whether you’re looking for local cuisine, Mexican, Italian or Pan Asian vegetarian fare , there are a plethora of cafes and fine dining restaurants to cater to every palate. The famous local desserts like ice kacang and cendol are not to be missed, either.

Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi

Berjaya Hills is a resort theme park set in the cool hills above KL, adjacent to the Genting Highlands. Similar to Vietnam’s Ba Na Hills in Danang , it was created in the picture of a European village (in this case, France’s Colmar Tropicale). It’s definitely one of the more touristy places to visit in Malaysia, but if you’re travelling with kids, it’s a fun way to break from the city.

The centre of the small town is dominated by Bavarian-style houses , each containing a restaurant or cafe (most of them dishing up European cuisine). Botanical Gardens and Japanese Gardens , a golf course and a number of shrines are embedded in the forest beyond the town.

Malaysia essentials

Here are some of the resources I use when planning a trip to Malaysia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Malaysia on Kiwi.com , a booking site that mixes and matches airlines to find the best route (if you miss your connection, you get your money back).

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Malaysia and apply for an expedited visa online.

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre-book a private transfer from Kuala Lumpur Airport to your hotel or pre-purchase your KLIA Airport Train tickets online and skip the queue.

SHORT ON TIME? Try this KL layover city tour to see the best of the city in a short period of time.

SIM CARD: Purchase an Airalo eSIM for Malaysia and get instant access to the net when you arrive.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Malaysia on Agoda or book a Malaysia hostel .

BUS & TRAIN TICKETS: Buy your bus or train tickets online in advance using Bookaway .

MARKET TOURS & COOKING CLASSES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Malaysia here on Cookly .

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Malaysia here on Get Your Guide.

MALAYSIA GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Malaysia .

Which of these beautiful places in Malaysia do you want to visit? Do you have any extra recommendations for travellers wondering where to go in Malaysia? Share your best tips in the comments below!

Where to go in Malaysia: Share it on Pinterest

17 comments.

Hai Thanks for sharing the list of places to visit in & around Malaysia it help me as a ready reckoner for me to visit the places. I’m planning to visit the incredible country Malaysia Truly Asia in the coming Yr.2024 Thanks once gain !

So nice of you. Very good explanation and beautiful places you mentioned.

So many great places in Malaysia that I missed. I will just have to go back soon!

Ahhh you and your photos make Malaysia seem absolutely incredible and enticing. I hope one day I can go to every one of these places. It’s hard to pick a top place, though. Maybe Kilim Geoforest park or Gunung Mulu National Park? Thank you for this comprehensive post!

So many amazing places I haven’t visited in Malaysia yet! Can’t wait for travel to open up again and explore some of these places. And maybe even go back to places and take better photos;) I’ll keep this list handy for when I do travel.

After reading your post, I am dying to visit Malaysia. I hope I start travelling soon after everything settles down. I am saving this post for future reference.

Thanks for this comprehensive blog! I’ve had Ipoh on my list for some time now, but I see I need to add sooooo many more places thanks to your blog 🇲🇾Pinning & saving it for future travel inspo.

Thanks Shelley! Ipoh is my favourite place in Malaysia for sure 🙂

Malaysia is such an incredible country! I’ve been twice and there is still so much more for me to explore. Definitely pinning this to reference for my next trip!

All of these spots look so beautiful! Malaysia is next on my Southeast Asia bucket list. I’m definitely keeping this article handy. 🙂

This is such a great post!! I already know that there are so many beautiful places in Malaysia but with this article, I know that I will love this country!

What an awesome list of the best places to visit in Malaysia. I’ve been to Malaysia but I definitely did not see enough. Next time, I’m in Malaysia, I will definitely use this blog!

The most unusual location is the one with the Bavarian-style houses. I had no idea about it!

Thanks for this excellent post!

Thanks Diana! Yes, that’s definitely one of the more out-of-the-box destinations! I love how diverse Malaysia is 🙂

When I backpacked SE Asia, I was only in Malaysia for 2-3 days. This blog post makes me want to go back and spend a whole month there. Thanks for such a comprehensive list!

A month might not even be long enough! There are so many beautiful places in Malaysia; it’s such a diverse country. Definitely worthy of a return visit!

What a cool place! George Town looks really interesting. Thanks for sharing

I’m so bummed I never got to visit Malaysia when I lived in Thailand! It looks amazing and I love how diverse it is! Can’t wait to go back to Southeast Asia and explore all Malaysia has to offer 🙂

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• 55 Places To Visit In Malaysia

Places to See in Malaysia

Quick navigation, must places to visit in malaysia, petronas twin towers.

The twin skyscraper in Malaysia held the rank of the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004 and is currently known as the tallest twin tower in the world. The twin tower KL features diamond – faceted façade containing 83,500 stainless steel extrusions. The towers' interior highlights Malaysia's culture and inspires people through traditional aspects like carvings and fabric.

Top Experiences To Do in Petronas Twin Towers

Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi Cable car is also known as the Sky Cab claims to be the steepest cable car ride in the world; that takes visitors at a height of 708 meters up in the sky, above the sea level. The cable car carries passengers to Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest peak and thus is considered as one of the must-visit Langkawi attractions. On a visit here, tourists are advised to carry a jacket as the elevation in height invites chilled winds. The views from the top of this peak make getting onto this ride absolutely worth it and memorable. Location: Jalan Telaga Tujuh, Kedah Timings: 9:30 am to 7 pm on all days Must Experience:  Snorkeling Tours in Langkawi Click Here to Book:  Langkawi Cable Car Tickets

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Situated at a staggering height of 2,170 feet and hanging in between the two mountains, the Langkawi sky bridge, as the name suggests, makes you witness Malaysian beauty from heavenly heights. You can reach this bridge after ending your sky cab ride, only to witness more enchanting views of the forests and mountains. Stretching up to 410 feet with transparent sections, this bridge gives you a rush of adrenaline with a feeling of almost standing in the sky!

Top Experiences To Do in Langkawi Sky Bridge

KL Tower (Menara)

Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the KL Tower is one of the most popular spots for the locals as well as the tourists. This tower is renowned for being the tallest telecommunication tower in all of Southeast Asia and the 7th tallest tower in the world.

Top Experiences To Do in KL Tower (Menara)

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Beat the heat of Kuala Lumpur and hop in for an extraordinary experience at the magical theme park of Sunway Lagoon. With six different zones featuring thrilling bungee jumping rides to classic turbulence water slides, you are in for a treat. Experience the best of 5D cinematic movies at the waterpark and tune in for a gripping slingshot ride at x park lagoon. 

Top Experiences To Do in Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Aquaria KLCC

The Aquaria KLCC is said to be the world’s largest aquarium, holding over 5000 freshwater and marine creatures, which include massive arapaimas, giant groupers, garfishes and many more. Some of the major attractions of the aquarium are the scary tiger sharks, bright coral fishes, lethal sea snakes, seahorses, and blue rays.

The Aquaria KLCC is one of the foremost tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur involving the real depth and complexity. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia.

Location : The Aquaria KLCC is located on the concourse of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center.

Price : The entry fee approximately starts from 64 MYR for an adult and 53 MYR for a child. Check out Now:   Aquaria KLCC Ticket Price  

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Langkawi  

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a group of five different islands, which include Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug. There are various beach activities that the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes. However, all these beach activities require a prior booking and it is one of the best places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

You can also indulge in various water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and witness the beautiful coral and marine life of the island. The island tours can be booked on the spot from where you will take your ferries.

Location: The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is just 20 minutes boat ride from the Kota Kinabalu.

How To Reach: The Jesselton Jetty ferry terminal consistently operates the boats to the Island, which takes around 20 minutes to reach there.

Price: The approximate cost for the complete tour starts from 53 MYR per adult.

Timings: 8.30 AM to 5 PM Here is the List of  Best  Things to Do in Langkawi Suggested Read: Things to Do in Malaysia

Bako National Park, Kuching

Best of Thailand

Lost World of Tambun

Melaka Historic City

Cameron Highlands

Top Experiences To Do in Cameron Highlands

Langkawi Island

Batu Caves, Selangor

The Batu Caves is located in the Selangor region of Malaysia. It has one of the famous Hindu shrines. The shine is of Lord Murugan resides in these caves. A lot of tourists visit this place as it is a religious site. The natural beauty of this place is mesmerizing. 

This area has innumerable caves that are that are home to many species of animals and insects. This area has many monkeys that often snatch away things from the tourist. The caves are said to be of the 10th century that has slowly developed. The caves are protected by the Malaysian Nature Society. 

There are many transportation facilities available to these caves like trains buses etc from Kuala Lumpur.  The most famous festival of the Batu caves is Thaipusam festival. This is one of the ideal Hindu religious places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur. Click Here to Book:  Kuala Lumpur Suburbs and Batu Caves Day Tour  or  Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur Also Check: Best Beaches in Malaysia

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi

Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak

Best of Bangkok

Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Pulau Perhentian Besar

Taman Negara, Pahang

Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak

The Perhentian Islands

Sungai Kinabatangan, Borneo Island

Penang Hill, Penang

Tioman Island

Sipadan Island

Best of Vietnam

Shangri-La's Orangutan Care Project, Kota Kinabalu

If you are a wildlife enthusiast and love exploring new places, which promote wildlife and its conservation, Shangri-La’s Orangutan Care Project is one that you cannot miss. The project is dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of Orangutans and it is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

It allows the common people to get the deeper insights into the lives of these amazing creatures. You can spend quality time with the Orangutans, get very close to them and even take memorable snapshots.

During your tour, you will be acquainted about the lives of Orangutan through the short videos, both before and after the tour. After the video, you are escorted to the feeding platform, where you are allowed to feed these lovely Orangutans.

The complete duration of the tour is around 1-2 hours. The excitement of the tour burgeons especially when your children accompany with you. Apart from the Orangutans, you also get to see a few more varieties of monkeys inside the care project.

Location: The Orangutan Care Project is located at Pantai Dalit Tuaran in Kota Kinabalu.  You May Also Like:  Activities in Langkawi Click Here to Checkout & Book:  Hop on Hop off KL Price

Pangkor Island

Dataran Merdeka

Legoland Malaysia

Boh Plantation

Must Visit Places in Kuala Lumpur

National Mosque of Malaysia

Best of Singapore

Perdana Botanical Gardens

Islamic Arts Museum

Minnature Malaysia

KL Butterfly Park

Must Visit Places in Langkawi

Dataran lang.

Gunung Raya

Pulau Payar Marine Park

Langkawi Arts in Paradise 3D Museum

Best of Hong Kong

Pantai Kok Beach

Must Visit Places in Kota Kinabalu

Manukan island.

Masjid Bandaraya

Sabah State Museum

Atkinson Clock Tower

Satay Legend Lok Kawi

Must Visit Places in Penang

Arulmigu karumariamman temple.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Best of Kuala Lumpur

Bukit Panchor Forest Park

Clan Jetties

Must Visit Places in Ipoh

Bukit mertajam recreational forest.

KeK Lok Tong Cave Temple

Perak Cave Temples

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Ling Sen Tong Temple

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Malaysia Top Attractions

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

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

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

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Things to Do in Malaysia

Common Greetings

Currency in Malaysia

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Visiting Kuala Lumpur

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Public Transportation Guide

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Guide to Malaysian Street Food

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Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

simonlong / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

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

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

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

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

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

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

Pick one and start packing your luggage.

Top 35 Places To Visit In Malaysia

1. taman negara.

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

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

Taman Negara Highlights:

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

2. Genting Highlands

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

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

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

Also read:  Singapore To Malaysia: 5 Easy Transport

Genting Highlands Highlights:

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

3. Tioman Island

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

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

Also read:  10 Best Island Near Mersing, Johor

Tioman Island Highlights:

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

4. Cameron Highlands

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

Cameron Highlands Highlights:

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

5. Gunung Mulu National Park, Miri

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

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

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

Gunung Mulu National Park Highlights:

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

6. Niah National Park, Miri

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

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

Also read:  7 Popular National Parks In Malaysia

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

Niah National Park Highlights:

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

7. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

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

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

Semenggoh Nature Reserve Highlights:

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

8. Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching

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

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

Sarawak Cultural Village Highlights:

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

9. Sipadan Island

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

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

Image Credits: tashggw

Sipadan Island Highlights:

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

10. Desa Dairy Farm, Kundasang

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

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

Desa Dairy Farm Highlights:

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

11. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

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

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

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Highlights:

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

12. Mount Kinabalu

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

Also read:  7 Captivating Hills in Johor For Weekend Hiking

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

Mount Kinabalu Highlights:

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

13. Endau Rompin National Park

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

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

Endau Rompin National Park Highlights:

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

14. Legoland Malaysia

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

Legoland Malaysia Highlights:

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

15. Rawa Island

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

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

Rawa Island Highlights:

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

16. UK Farm

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

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

UK Farm Highlights:

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

17. Petronas Twin Towers

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

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

Petronas Twin Towers Highlights:

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

18. Menara KL Tower

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

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

Menara KL Tower Highlights:

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

19. Merdeka Square

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

Merdeka Square Highlights:

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

20. Sunway Lagoon

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

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

Also read:  7 Awesome Water Parks In Johor

Sunway Lagoon Highlights:

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

21. Batu Caves

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

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

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

Batu Caves Highlights:

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

22. Broga Hill

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

Broga Hill Highlights:

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

23. Georgetown Heritage Walk

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

Georgetown Heritage Walk Highlights:

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

24. Penang Hill

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

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

Penang Hill Highlights:

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

25. Kek Lok Si Temple

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

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

Kek Lok Si Temple Highlights:

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

26. Lost World Tambun

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

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

Lost World Tambun Highlights:

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

27. Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

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

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple Highlights:

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

28. Perhentian Islands

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

Perhentian Island Highlights:

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

29. Redang Island

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

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

Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan

Redang Island Highlights:

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

30. Langkawi Cable Car

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

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

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

Langkawi Cable Car Highlights:

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

31. Langkawi Sky Bridge

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

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

Langkawi Sky Bridge Highlights:

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

32. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Langkawi

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

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

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Highlights:

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

33. A Famosa Fort

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

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

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

A Famosa Fort Highlights:

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

34. Jonker Street

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

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

Jonker Street Highlights:

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

35. Port Dickson

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

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

Image credits: lexishibiscuspd.com

Port Dickson Highlights:

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

You Might Also Like:

• Top 15 Best Dive Sites In Malaysia
• 7 Glamping Site in Malaysia For Your Weekend Trip
• 17 Must-Visit Theme Parks In Malaysia
• 16 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor
• 14 Caravan Parks in Johor  (Malaysia’s First Ever Caravan Park)

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• 41 Amazing Malaysia Tourist Attractions For An Adventure Of A Lifetime In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Malaysia is an amazing country, known for reflecting an eclectic blend of ancient customs, traditions, and culture with a dash of modernity. The country has a lot to offer to its discerning tourists in terms of all the Malaysia tourist attractions like beautiful islands, beaches, quaint towns, heritage sites, and adventure spots. If a Malaysia tour is on the cards, here’s a quick list of the best places to visit in Malaysia and mind it, it comes with a no-miss warning. Whether you’re looking for nature, architecture, relaxation, or adventure, these places will ensure you have a great holiday in Malaysia. So, make sure you visit all of these Malaysia tourist places on your next trip to the country if you wish to experience the best of what this nation has to offer.

Malaysia Tourist Attractions In 2024: Best Islands And Mountains

We have shortlisted some of the best islands to visit in Malaysia with your family and friends for an awesome brief getaway. Prepare to be thrilled and have the best experience of sightseeing in Malaysia.

• Langkawi Island – Land Of Azure Waters
• Perhentian Island – Witness The Colorful Corals
• Penang – The Finest Of All 
• Kinabatangan – Home To Exotic Wild
• Mount Kinabalu – Hiker’s Paradise
• Pangkor Island – Serenity All Around 
• Sipadan Island – The Top Diving Site
• Mantanani – Exotic Marine Life
• Redang Island – Home To A Marine Park
• Manukan Island – Exciting Water Sports
• Pulau Tioman – Path Less Taken

1. Langkawi Island –  Land Of Azure Waters

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A beautiful archipelago, Langkawi Island is a destination known for its vast expanse of sandy beaches and azure blue water which enthral the tourists. The Langkawi Geopark is a UNESCO heritage site that attracts a large number of visitors and is, undoubtedly, the top among the must-visit places in Malaysia. It is a perfect manifestation of the geological heritage in the area. It is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia with family.

Major Attractions: Famous Cable Car that is popular among kids, as well as, adults. Entry Fee: INR 15 – INR 20 per head for a one-hour island tour Tip: This beach is a must-visit for total relaxation, rejuvenation and sightseeing in Malaysia.

Must Read: Malaysia Islands

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2. LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort – Be Dazzled

You get to experience a time full of imagination. The LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort is the first international theme park in Malaysia & the first LEGOLAND® theme park in Asia. Explore an area full of attractions that will completely dazzle you. This is a wonderful place to visit in Malaysia with kids as they are going to love the various rides, shows, slides and multiple other attractions. 

What’s more is that you can have a memorable time at the waterpark with more than 20 tubes and slides and over 70 LEGO® models. Enjoy an amazing underwater experience with more than 13,000 marine creatures from 11 habitat zones where you can even spot unique LEGO® figures along the journey!

Major Attractions : LEGOLAND® Water Park, SEA LIFE, LEGO®KINGDOMS, LEGO TECHNIC® , MINILAND, LEGO CITY, Land of Adventure, Imagination, LEGO®NINJAGO® World, The Beginning & The Big Shop

Entry Fee : Prices vary according to attraction you choose 

Tip : Try to explore at least 1 activity from all the themes for a fulfilling experience

3. Perhentian Island – Witness The Colorful Corals

A group of stunning, coral-fringed islands – the Perhentian Island is located almost 19 km away from North-eastern Malaysia. It is a part of a marine park where activities like fishing are strictly prohibited. It is one of the most unique places to visit in the country. It is also counted among the best places to visit in Malaysia with friends.

Major Attractions: Transparent shallow waters near the coast allow a perfect glimpse of the colourful corals at this famous tourist place in Malaysia. Entry Fee: INR 80 to INR 100 per adult at the Marine Park Tip: These islands are among the best places to visit in Malaysia to enjoy the vibrant hues of corals.

Suggested Read: Tioman Island

4. Penang – The Finest Of All 

Located on the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia , Penang is one of the finest Malaysian islands that you shouldn’t miss on your trip. Famous as an exotic destination, the place offers its visitors so much to explore. This city’s Wonderfood Museum, Fort Cornwallis, Reclining Buddha, Burmese Temple and Waterfront Village just happen to be some of the best places in Malaysia for you to visit.

Major Attractions: Rainbow Skywalk, Street of Harmony and Waterfront Village are some of the places you must visit. Entry Fee: NA Tip: Don’t miss out on Armenian Street Art and Wonder Food Museum.

5. Kinabatangan – Home To Exotic Wild

Located to the east of Sabah, Kinabatangan is known for its rainforest remains. Its wildlife sanctuary attracts a large number of wildlife lovers at this tourist attraction in Malaysia. Among the most romantic places to visit in Malaysia, this one tops the list.It is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in 3 days.

Location: Northeastern Borneo, Malaysia Major Attractions : Visit the Jungle Camp to enjoy wildlife in its unhindered natural habitat. Entry Fee: INR 6000 per person (Minimum 2 adults) for 2 days, 1-night trip to the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp Tip: Enjoy an early morning cruise to watch out rich wildlife

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

6. Mount Kinabalu – Hiker’s Paradise

The tallest mountain of Borneo, Mount Kinabalu is a striking sight to behold. Hikers love to enjoy impressive trails that allow a glimpse of the picturesque surroundings of the region. Quite popular among people with adventurous bones, it is one of the best Malaysia visiting places to have a thrill-ozing experience. Among the good places to visit in Malaysia, this one tops the list. Location: West Coast Division, Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Zipline to experience the rush that comes with high velocity Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Enjoy amazing sights and thrilling activities at this tourist place in Malaysia.

7. Pangkor Island – Serenity All Around 

Image Source If you’re seeking peace and solitude with the perfect mix of beauty and serenity, you should be heading to Pangkor Island, one of the most tranquil Malaysia tourist attractions . Lying near Perak’s coast, this is one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions that features empty beaches, crystal clear and clean water, and dense jungles covering the centre of the island. You’ll love the chance to sunbathe under swaying palms here without another soul in sight. When you’re here, you must check out the Dutch Colonial Fort, take pictures of a traditional wooden jetty, and feed hornbills at the Sunset View Chalet. Location: West coast of Peninsular Malaysia Major Attractions: Dutch Colonial Fort, Sunset View Chalet

Suggested Read: Malaysian Street Food

8. Sipadan Island – The Top Diving Site

Image Source The petite island near Semporna in Sabah is among the world’s top diving sites and surely one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions. After attaining the status of a protected reserve in 2002, only a handful of tourists at a time are permitted to visit this limestone pinnacle which is one of the best islands near Kuala Lumpur . So, make sure you get your permit way in advance so that you do not miss out on the experience of seeing one of the best Malaysia attractions. Preserving its delicate ecology, this island has everything from unique flora to bizarre fauna to make your holiday a special one. Location: Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Diving and rare fauna

9. Mantanani – Exotic Marine Life

Image Source Sabah’s Mantanani Islands located near Kota Belud are some of the most famous tourist places in Malaysia that offer Borneo’s finest diving sites just an hour from Kota Kinabalu. It’s among the most famous places in Malaysia owing to its diving locales and a favourite of all snorkelers and divers who flock to this island on day trips from the capital city. Swarming in large numbers, divers come in from all parts of the world to these islands to wander in its clear waters and meet seahorses and stingrays. Scuba-certified divers can choose from more than 20 locations here for these water sports in Malaysia .

Location: North-west coast of the state of Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Diving and snorkeling sites

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Bukit Tinggi Malaysia

10. Redang Island – Home To A Marine Park

Image Source The Redang Island is a cluster of 9 islands that form this unique locale for a day tour from the mainland. The Rendang Island Marine Park located near Terengganu State is among the most exciting Malaysia tourist attractions. Tucked near the Perhentian Islands, this charming archipelago attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers who are more into a luxurious holiday than backpacking. Find some of the best hotels and resorts in Malaysia on these islands for a lavish holiday experience. Other than luxury and great views, Redang’s thriving diving scene also makes it one of the most amazing tourist places in Malaysia. Location: Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia Major Attractions: Luxury hotels, beach resorts, diving sites

11. Manukan Island – Exciting Water Sports

Image Source The second largest island sitting in the first-ever marine national park of Malaysia, Manukan Island is one of the exciting tourist places in Malaysia that one should visit at least once in a lifetime. Home to an extensive number of water sports and beaches, this island has plenty to offer to locals and travellers alike. The Island is famed for its coral reefs that reek of vibrant and eye-catching colours. Accessible by ferry from Kota Kinabalu, this island offers the best of facilities amidst all the islands of Malaysia. Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, Malaysia Major Attractions: Water Sports, Coral Reefs

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Genting Highlands Malaysia

12. Pulau Tioman – Path Less Taken 

Sitting on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, Pulau Tioman is one of the smallest islands. It has been tagged as one of the most beautiful places to see in Malaysia which is nothing less than paradise on earth. The dense, lush green forests and pristine blue waters of this island do not fail to reek of serenity and alluring vibes. Ranking at the top on the list of paths less taken, Pulau Tioman usually remains deserted other than the months when Malaysia experiences monsoon (November to February). Location: Rompin District, Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Water Sports, Solitude

Malaysia Tourist Attractions: Best Cities, Towns, And Villages

We have shortlisted splendid cities, towns, and villages in Malaysia that you must visit this year for a wonderful time with your loved ones. Check out all of these Malaysian tourist places for the best trip of your life.

• Melaka – The City Of Ancient Architecture
• George Town – Reeks Of Historic Vibes
• Perak – A Plate Full Of Adventure 
• Serdang – Try Zorbing 
• Cameron Highlands – Nature At Its Best 
• Johor Bahru – Indulge In The Local Cuisine
• Klang – Try Out The Herbal Flavors 
• Alor Setar – The Rice Bowl Of Malaysia
• Semporna – Crystal Clear Waters 
• Putrajaya – The Perfectly Planned City 

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Malaysia For A Short Trip

13. Melaka – The City Of Ancient Architecture

In 2008, Maleka attained the Unesco Heritage Site status and has been considered among the must-see places in Malaysia, since then. Melaka, located 2 hours away from Kuala Lumpur, is one of the most famous trading ports in Southeast Asia. Its ancient architecture speaks volumes about its erstwhile grandeur. Housing some of the best Malaysia tourist attractions, the city is not to be missed. Tripping with family? Don’t forget to visit classic places in Melaka for kids like the Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Major Attractions: Visit Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum if you are a history buff to know more about Malays-Chinese local history. Entry Fee: INR 130 – INR 150 for adults (Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum) Tip: Enjoy local delicacies at Melaka, a famous tourist place in Malaysia.

14. George Town – Reeks Of Historic Vibes

George Town, a popular historical town, is one of all Malaysia tourist places that history buffs will love to visit. Adorned with some exquisite heritage sites and pilgrimage monuments, the town offers glimpses of erstwhile times. Also, it has its place among the best places to visit in Malaysia.

Location: Penang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Kapitan Keling Mosque, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and beautiful Buddhist Temples. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee to this quaint tourist place in Malaysia. Tip: Enjoy the Vibrant Street art by the local artists at this tourist destination in Malaysia.

Suggested Read: Honeymoon Destinations In Malaysia

15. Perak – A Plate Full Of Adventure 

Located just one and a half hours away from Kuala Lumpur, adventure tourists can experience the thrill of water rafting in Perak. It takes place in the Ulu Slim River, which is suitable for Grade 3+ rafting activity. Excellent equipments are available for the rafters at this famous tourist attraction in Malaysia.

Location: NA Major Attractions: The aboriginal village and scenic landscape all around Entry Fee: INR 2,800 – INR 3000 per person Tip: The equipment available for the rafters here is excellent, which implies Perak is a good place to raft.

16. Serdang – Try Zorbing 

A popular recreational activity, Zorbing can be enjoyed in Serdang. Rolling inside an overblown transparent plastic ball is an amazing experience. No matter, if it’s in water or on a hard surface. It is, hands down, one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions.

Major Attractions: Don’t miss Zorbing at Serdang. It is among the popular Malaysia tourist attractions here. Entry Fee: INR 2,400 – INR 3,000 Tip: Ensure that your sense of balance is sharp.

Suggested Read: Malaysia In July

17. Cameron Highlands – Nature At Its Best 

If you want to be at the hills in Malaysia then Cameron Highlands is the place for you. One of the oldest tourist spots in Malaysia, this hill station was established in the 1930s and is now inhabited by a group of people who are very diverse and have an impact on the culture too. Mesmerising tea estates, great weather, cascading waterfalls, strawberry farms and pretty orchards make reasons enough for you to visit this place.

Location: Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Tea estates, strawberry farms and gushing waterfalls are the prime reasons for you to visit the place. Entry Fee: INR 350 – INR 400 Tip: Don’t miss out on the beautiful orchards and strawberry farms.

18. Johor Bahru – Indulge In The Local Cuisine

The bustling Malaysian city, Johor Bahru is located in the Southernmost end of the country. There’s a causeway bridge in Johor connecting Malaysia to Singapore. You would surely enjoy visiting Istana Besar, a grand royal palace in the city, built in 1866 by the Sultan of Johor. Now it has been turned into the Royal Abu Bakar Museum. Johor Bahru is also a great place for exploring Malaysian food.

Location: Johor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Royal Abu Bakar Museum, Legoland Malaysia, Sanrio Hello Kitty Town Entry Fee: NA Tip: Taking a local transport will help you absorb the culture best

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Miri In 1 Day

19. Klang – Try Out The Herbal Flavors 

Klang is another town in Malaysia which is appreciated for its amazing local food. One of the most popular dishes is Bak Kut Teh, the pork rib soup. The food here is high in herbal flavours. You can visit the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery to get a peek into the intriguing royal history of Selangor. This town also houses the largest port in the country, Port Klang.

Location: Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery, Laman Seni 7, SnowWalk, Trick Art Museum Entry Fee: NA Tip: Do not miss trying new food dishes here

20. Alor Setar – The Rice Bowl Of Malaysia

Image Source Alor Setar is among the most important places to see in Malaysia because it’s the ‘rice bowl of Malaysia’. This capital of Kedah State is full of paddy fields as well as delightful rolling hills that are a treat to the eyes! The city exhibits the typical Malay culture and is home to some interesting galleries, lovely architecture, and pretty beaches that bring people here from near and far. It is located very near to the stunning Pulau Langkawi beach which provides a great place for a day trip from this city.

Location: Kota Setar, Malaysia Major Attractions: Art galleries, beaches, paddy fields

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sepang Malaysia

21. Semporna – Crystal Clear Waters 

Image Source The city of Semporna is famed for the Semporna Archipelago, which is one of the most beautiful Malaysia tourist attractions luring in travellers from around the world. An otherwise hectic town with lots of traffic, this city has only recently become a popular tourist destination owing to this archipelago. If you’re visiting places in Malaysia that have fewer tourist attractions and more natural charm, then this should be on the top of your list. Other than nature, this city also has a mosque and distinctive hotels lining the stunning waterfront.

Location: Borneo, Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Skull Hill, Semporna Archipelago

22. Putrajaya – The Perfectly Planned City 

Image Source Lying over 30 km away from Kuala Lumpur, the planned city of Putrajaya happens to be among the most scenic tourist destinations in Malaysia and has the government´s administrative body. Possessing impressive architecture, monuments, green spaces, lavish parks, and other tourist attractions, this developed city reflects Malaysia’s ambition and vision for the future. More than anything else, it’s a great place to experience the nightlife of Malaysia . You’ll find it beautifully lit up at night with a lot of trendy bars and clubs luring you in. Also, the city is thinly populated, making it one of the most offbeat and peaceful places for Malaysia sightseeing.

Location: South of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Putra Mosque, Perdana Putra, Putra Bridge, Putrajaya Lake

Suggested Read: Skydiving In Malaysia

Malaysia Tourist Attractions: Best Wildlife Places

There are some of the most exotic wildlife places to visit in Malaysia that protect land and aquatic animals. If you are a nature lover, you will surely enjoy visiting these charming Malaysia tourist spots.

• Aquaria KLCC – Walk Amidst The Marine Life
• Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Paradise For Bird Watchers
• Bako National Park – Epitome Of Natural Beauty
• Semengohh Nature Reserve – Land Of Orangutans 
• Taman Negara – Oldest Rainforest 
• Kilim Karst Geoforest Park – For Extravagant Mangroves
• Tunku Abdul Rahman Park – Ample Of Beach Activities 
• Turtle Sanctuary Beach – Solace And Solitude
• Gunung Gading National Park – Home To The Largest Flower Ever 

23. Aquaria KLCC – Walk Amidst The Marine Life

Said to be the largest aquarium in the world, the Aquaria KLCC consists of more than 5000 marine and freshwater creatures including the likes of garfishes, massive arapaimas giant groupers and more. Seahorses, huge tiger sharks and bright and colourful coral fishes are the major attractions of this place. The place is one of the best tourist attractions in Malaysia and you won’t wanna miss out on this one.

Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Colourful coral fishes and big tiger sharks which can be scary. Entry Fee: INR 1200 for adults | INR 1,000 for kids Tip: Enjoy and see the enriching and vast variety of water animals

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Melaka In 2 Days

24. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Paradise For Bird Watchers

The Bird Park in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is divided into four zones out of which Zone 1 and Zone 2 are for the free flight of the birds where they are left to fly and given a nice environment to breed naturally. It is a treat to the eyes to watch all the colourful birds fly together in these areas. Zone 3 of the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is the Hornbill Park and Zone 4 consists of several cages and separate areas for different types of birds.

Location: KL Bird Park, 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Some of the major attractions of the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park are Hornbill Park, parrots, the egg incubation area, flamingo pond, bird gallery, and others. Entry Fee: INR 850 for adults | INR 700 for kids. Tip: Do not litter the park.

25. Bako National Park – Epitome Of Natural Beauty

The oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako National Park is an epitome of natural beauty and a vast variety of animals. With seven different rainforest ecosystems and an adventurous and exciting trek where you can explore the wide variety of wildlife and finish the trek upon reaching a beautiful; beach Bako National Park is where you should be.

Location: Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: Interact with nature and explore seven different rainforest ecosystems at once. Entry Fee: INR 150 – INR 200 Tip: Explore the diverse wildlife and enjoy the scenic trek.

Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Malaysia

26. Semengohh Nature Reserve – Land Of Orangutans 

The main purpose behind the establishment of Semenggoh Nature Reserve is to provide nourishment, love and care for animals who have been injured or abandoned. Made in 1975, this natural reserve has more than 9000 species of endangered species. Well known for Orangutan preservation, this place also has another unique factor which is that the animals are released once they are completely rehabilitated here. And that’s what makes it one of the fascinating Malaysia tourist places. 

Location: 93250 Siburan, Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: The variety of wildlife present here attracts the tourists. Entry Fee: INR 170 – INR 200 for adults; INR 80 – INR 100 for children Tip: The Orang-utans development cycle here(9 AM and 10 AM; 3 PM and 3:30 PM) should not be missed.

27. Taman Negara – Oldest Rainforest 

The oldest rainforest in the world, Taman Negara is a quiet and peaceful rainforest in bustling Malaysia. One of the most popular ecotourism destinations in Malaysia this place offers a respite from the monotony of everyday life and many activities for relaxation and rejuvenation and some adventure. You can take boating trips, try your hand at shooting, observe wildlife and trek at Gunung Tahan.

Location: 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Jungle Walks during the night hours, aboriginal settlements at Orang Asli and canopy walks are what you should do at Taman Negara. Entry Fee: INR 17 – INR 20 Tip: Do try out the various activities you can at Taman Negara

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Pahang Malaysia

28. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park – For Extravagant Mangroves

The best way to explore the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park located in the enthralling Langkawi islands is through a boat tour. Known amongst the best places to enjoy natural mangroves this place is all about beauty. The visitors can explore and get to know about unique and distinct Limestone formations, swim in the rivers at the place see and observe the migratory birds and learn about the medicinal plants present at this place.

Location: Malaysia, Kampung Kilim, MY 07000 Kedah Langkawi Kilim Sungai Kilim Major Attractions: Let the beauty of suspended and distinct Bogak trees and the migratory birds take over you. Entry Fee: INR 3500 -INR 8500 for a boat and tour guide Tip: Enjoy the beauty of Bogak trees and watch flying foxes

29. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park – Ample Of Beach Activities 

A group of five islands namely Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug is what forms the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. If you are a beach person then there’s good news for you! The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes many fun and exciting beach activities. Not just that there is something for water babies too. You can indulge in scuba diving or snorkelling or observe the fascinating marine life.

Location: Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: The exciting beach activities are what most people visit the place for. Entry Fee: INR 350 for adults; INR 250 for children Tip: If you want to try out the beach activities then make prior bookings for the same.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Shah Alam Malaysia

30. Turtle Sanctuary Beach – Solace And Solitude

If you want some privacy and stunning beaches with scenic views then Turtle Sanctuary Beach is your best bet. With its clear waters, bright corals and exotic marine life this place is hard to miss. The best part is that there is not even a single building or resort in the vicinity and dense forests are what one sees as far as one can see.

Major Attractions: Great location, bright corals and no commercialisation around the area. Entry Fee: NA Tip: You can catch many turtles laying eggs and many baby turtles hatching which is a rare sight.

31. Gunung Gading National Park – Home To The Largest Flower Ever 

Known for being home to the largest flower in the entire world, Gunung Gading National Park is one of the famous places in Malaysia, especially for the to-be botanists or nature admirers. Rafflesia blooms that are around three feet high can be found here. Although these flowers can die just after a few days, Rafflesia can bloom any time of the year. Apart from this, this National Park has ample to offer including clear beaches, rugged and stunning mountains, and the lush green jungles where one can hike.It is one of the beautiful places in Malaysia to explore.

Location: Southwest Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: World’s largest flower -Rafflesia, hiking spots in the jungles, and beaches for strolling around Entry Fee: INR 340 for adults; INR 120 for children Tip: You can look at the largest flower but avoid smelling the Rafflesia blooms as it has a nasty fragrance.

Suggested Read: Malaysia In May

Other Tourist Attractions In Malaysia

There are several historical, adventurous, and entertaining tourist places to visit in Malaysia. Make sure you include all of these outstanding Malaysia tourist spots in your itinerary for a great trip.

• A’Famosa Fortress – For A Hint Of Europe
• Maran Murugan Temple – Perfect Craftmanship
• ATV Adventure Park – For A Dose Of Thrill And Entertainment 
• Bukit Bintang – Be A Part Of Crazy
• Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower – Stunning Cityscapes
• Petronas Twin Towers – Most Iconic Of All
• Sunway Lagoon – Embrace That Inner Child
• Islamic Arts Museum – An Insight Into The Culture
• Batu Caves – Magnet For Adventure Enthusiasts
• Kek Lok Si Temple – Popular Amidst Pilgrims

32. A’Famosa Fortress – For A Hint Of Europe

In Portuguese, the meaning of A’Famosa is “famous” and this magnificent fortress is extremely popular among tourists. Glimpses of European architecture can be seen here, which makes it one of the most unusual Malaysia tourist places. A’Famosa Fortress is perfect if you are looking for some light sightseeing in Malaysia.

Location: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka, Malaysia Major Attractions: Ammunition-storage room, officers’ quarters and captain’s residence. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee to this monumental Malaysia tourist attraction. Tip: Best to visit in the early morning to avoid crowds thronging to the place.

Suggested Read: Festivals In Malaysia

33. Maran Murugan Temple – Perfect Craftmanship

Maran Murugan temple is a famous temple dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Murugan. It has a mysterious past and the story of its origin is quite interesting. Unique of all the places to visit in Malaysia, this one is prominent due to its amazing craftsmanship.

Location: Sri Maran Marathandavar Aalayam, Jalan Kuantan – Jerantut, Pahang, 26500 Maran, Malaysia Major Attractions: Maran Murugan temple is known for its amazing architecture and striking golden colour painted exterior. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Visit during Morning Darshan to enjoy the solitude of the temple.

34. ATV Adventure Park – For A Dose Of Thrill And Entertainment 

Enjoy an exciting experience of driving Terrain Vehicles at a mind-numbing pace in the Adventure Park. This entertainment park is perfect for enjoying some of the soul thrilling activities of all the best places to go in Malaysia for a thrilling day out.

Location: Atv Adventure, Kampung Kemensah, 68000, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Cross country runs and Sofea Jane Waterfall Entry Fee: INR 850 to INR 5,200 Tip: Join the training park if you are an amateur, willing to master quadro-cycling.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Malaysia For Honeymoon

35. Bukit Bintang – Be A Part Of Crazy

On a visit to Kuala Lumpur, one can also experience the best of nightlife and shopping in Bukit Bintang. Streets of Bukit Bintang get a new look after 10 PM when all the restaurants and nightclubs increase their music volume to attract a huge number of tourists towards them. The area gets crowded with youths, while bright lights make the place look vibrant and festive.

Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The Pavilion KL is one of the best shopping malls that store products of a large number of European brands like Dolce and Gabbana, MaxMara, Versace, and others. Entry Fee: No entry fee Tip: Beware of the pickpockets, who take advantage of the crowd.

36. Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower – Stunning Cityscapes

The KL Tower is a 421 meters tall building, that provides one of the most stunning views of the city, and the KL Tower observation deck at the height of 276 meters. The KL Tower skybox provides a unique experience of the city with a panoramic view that will help you see the whole city uninterrupted and provide you with a full 360-degree experience. As you move up and reach the KL Tower Skydeck, you get to view the city from its mesmerizing height.

Location: No. 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The tower also has a lot of other attractions for the tourists, such as Mini Zoo, Upside Down House, XD Theatre, a 360-degree panoramic view restaurant, Malaysia Cultural Village, and more. Entry Fee: INR 830 for adults and INR 500 for kids Tip: The tower has 22 levels with a total of 2058 steps, so brace yourself for climbing these steps.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Malaysia

37. Petronas Twin Towers – Most Iconic Of All

This is one of the most iconic dominant Kuala Lumpur skyline places to visit in Malaysia. The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the Kuala Lumpur skyline and have become a part of the local culture and national identity. The Petronas Towers consists of two towers named as tower 1 and tower 2. Tower 1 is fully occupied by Petronas and its subsidiaries, and Tower 2 has been made available to various companies for office space on lease including Microsoft, Reuters, Al Jazeera English, Boeing, IBM, TCS and many more.

Location: Concourse Level, Lower Ground, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The upmarket retail centre of Suria KLCC is known for expensive foreign goods and branded labels. The retail centre includes an aquarium and a science centre all located at the feet of the Petronas Towers. Entry Fee: INR 1400 for adults and INR 560 for kids Tip: The sky bridge tickets are free, and you can tip a bellboy or taxi driver to get your ticket for you.

38. Sunway Lagoon – Embrace That Inner Child

Sunway Lagoon theme park is one of the places to visit in Malaysia with your family. It is a water park which offers a lot of rides and other things to do which are suitable for all age groups. With plenty of attractions and a bounty of fun activities in its store, a Sunway Lagoon tour often beguiles people to extend their excursion and enjoy every bit of it.

Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/20, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: There are various parks like the water park, amusement park, wildlife park, extreme park, scream park, etc. where people can have the best time of their lives. Entry Fee: INR 2900 for adults and INR 2400 for kids. Tip: To save money, one must travel by public transport which may take around 1.5 hours.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Langkawi

39. Islamic Arts Museum – An Insight Into The Culture

As they say art is the best way to express something the Islamic Arts Museum just goes on to be the living proof of the same. Opened for visitors on 12th December 1998 the museum is located in Perdana Botanical Garden and lies right in the heart of the city. Being the largest Islamic Art Museum in Southeast Asia, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia. This Islamic Arts Museum contains 7000 artefacts which represent Islamic culture.

Location: Perdana, Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The Quran and manuscripts gallery, the Chinese gallery and Indian gallery at Level 3 are attention capturing. Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults; INR 10 for children Tip: Don’t miss out on the fascinating galleries at this museum.

40. Batu Caves – Magnet For Adventure Enthusiasts 

A limestone hill, Batu Caves is located almost 13 km away from the capital city. Even the novice can also try their hand at rock climbing with the help of local trainers here. It is quite popular among the top places to visit in Malaysia, for adventure enthusiasts.

Location: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: The steep inclination of Batu Caves poses a major challenge for adventure enthusiasts. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee (for rock climbing, fees differ with organizing companies) Tip: Follow the instructions of the trainer to ensure your safety.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Southern Malaysia

41. Kek Lok Si Temple – Popular Amidst Pilgrims

Built in the year 1891, Kek Lok Si Temple is tagged as one of the significant Malaysia attractions. This is a Chinese-Buddhist temple that is often called ‘The Temple of Supreme Bliss’. Kek Lok Si Temple is home to an extensive number of images of Buddha. This temple is one of the largest ones in Malaysia and witnesses an impeccable footfall of pilgrims throughout the Southeastern region of Asia. One can witness around 10,000 carvings of Buddha at this temple.

Location: Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia Major Attractions: 10,000 carvings of Buddha on the walls. There is a hill entrance to the temple and it is home to various stalls serving food, and drinks, and selling souvenirs. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Take back some Buddhist souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

Further Read: Malaysia In April

These Malaysia tourist attractions will conjure up images in your head long after you have quit the country. It is not unusual for travellers to return to the country after visiting it once. This is because Malaysia offers the best hospitality in the world. Don’t believe us? Book your trip to Malaysia and immerse in an experience of a lifetime.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Malaysia Tourist Attractions

Is Malaysia worth visiting?

Malaysia has been counted in the list of the top destinations to visit in South-East Asia and every traveler must explore this country at least once in their lifetime.

Where should I go for 2 days in Malaysia?

If you are planning a short trip to Malaysia then make sure that you visit the top Malaysia tourist attractions including Petronas Twin Towers, Putrajaya, Bukit Bintang, KL City Gallery, and Mitsui Outlet Park.

Which is the best place to visit in Malaysia?

A trip to Malaysia is incomplete without exploring Kuala Lumpur as it is one of the best places to explore in the country.

What is Malaysia famous for?

If you are planning a Malaysia vacation then you must explore its coastal regions like Langkawi, local food, and the famous Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

What is Malaysia’s famous food?

The most popular dish from Malaysian cuisine is nasi lemak which is prepared with steamed rice. Rice is prepared in coconut milk along with pandan leaves and is served with different kinds of meat.

What is Malaysia’s national dish?

The national dish of Malaysia has been declared as nasi lemak which is a common local dish preferred by the locals. The rice is steamed in coconut milk and pandan leaves which gives it a rich fragrance.

How many days are enough for Malaysia?

It is advisable to spend at least a week in Malaysia to explore famous destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Along with this, you will also need a few days to indulge in activities. So, a trip for 6-7 days will justify the beauty of this place.

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14 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021

Malaysia is a country of contrasts-an eclectic mix of colonial architecture, stunning parks and beaches , contemporary skyscrapers, and a unique landscape covered in tea plantations . A melting pot with influences from neighboring lands, as well as Western countries, Malaysia has something for everybody-from the world-famous Petrona Towers to the cultural and religious diversity that makes this a destination like no other.

Whether you're already planning a trip or just exploring possibilities, here's a list of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

1. Kuala Lumpur

2. george town, 3. gunung mulu national park, 5. perhentian islands, 6. borneo rainforest, 7. langkawi, 8. cameron highlands, 9. taman negara, 10. kota kinabalu, 11. batu ferringhi, 13. malacca city, 14. tioman island, map of places to visit in malaysia.

Malaysia's capital and largest city has much to offer travelers. Perhaps best known for the Petronas Twin Towers (the world's tallest twin towers), KL is a very popular tourist destination and routinely makes the list of top 10 most visited cities in the world.

A mix of colonial, modern, Asian, and Malay architecture flows through the city, giving it a unique look you don't usually find in other Southeast Asian capitals. The National Palace and the House of Parliament are two examples of stunning KL architecture-well worth a look even if you don't plan on exploring inside.

More great things to do while you're in Kuala Lumpur include visiting Merdeka Square, shopping at Chinatown's Petaling Street, and exploring KL Bird Park.

Kuala Lumpur is considered one of the best shopping destinations in Southeast Asia -not only does the city have almost 70 shopping centers, but it's also full of indoor/outdoor markets (like the gigantic Central Market, with over 800 shops and stalls) and a great place to pick up hand-carved wood and pewter.

If you don't mind a quick trip out of town, the massive limestone Batu Caves , home to holy shrines and thousands of bats, are less than an hour away.

The older part of Malaysia's second-largest city has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site-but George Town is just as famous for its food as it is for its architecture. Known as " the food capital of Malaysia ," George Town offers some of the best street food in Asia, best experienced in places like seafront Gurney Drive and Chulia Street, a popular backpacker's destination and one of the oldest streets in the city.

While George Town's port and waterfront area is a tourist's favorite, there's much more to see and do here. The city's tallest skyscraper is home to the U-shaped Rainbow Skywalk , an outdoor glass viewing platform set 68 floors up in the air. For a less nerve-racking view of the city, take the tram up to the top of Penang Hill-the cityscape is particularly beautiful at night.

Less adventurous travelers might want to check out the Batik Painting Museum Penang before they grab some batik souvenirs from a local market, or visit the colorful 19 th -century Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple.

The park, named after Mount Mulu, attracts visitors from all over Asia who come here for trekking, caving, hot springs, and the natural beauty that caused this place to receive a UNESCO World Heritage Site classification.

Climbers can reach the top of Mount Mulu after a 24-kilometer trek with an elevation of 1,200 meters that starts at the park headquarters-but for those looking for a more relaxing day out, there are also easier trails within the park.

The park's main attractions are, however, its caves and the millions of bats that inhabit them. Set deep into the surrounding rainforest and karst cliffs, the caves are record-breakers in several ways-including featuring Southeast Asia's longest cave system and the world's largest cave passage. And at 115 meters high and 600 meters long, Sarawak Chamber is the largest cave chamber in the world, which is tricky to reach and can only be explored as part of a guided tour.

Kayaking, mountain biking, and taking a walk in the 500-meter-long canopy skywalk are also popular park activities.

Because of its location right against the South China Sea, it's perhaps no surprise that Kuantan's main call to fame is its beaches. Teluk Cempedak Beach is just minutes from the city center and offers a tree-lined, clean shoreline, while nearby Cherating Beach is home to a turtle sanctuary , as well as a cultural village that produces and sells traditional batik .

The Sungai Pandan Waterfall and Esplanade Park -from which you can take a boat to get a completely different view of the city-are also popular attractions and offer plenty of chances to explore the surroundings and hike or swim.

The Tin Museum , located on the site of a former massive underground tin mine, is a unique attraction worth a visit. Nearby, visitors will also find a hanging rope bridge and the Charah Cave complex (be prepared for an hour-long hike among tropical palm trees to reach the caves), which houses a large reclining Buddha.

These coral-fringed, secluded islands offer plenty of opportunities for kayaking, exploring, snorkeling , and scuba diving (including the popular site of a sugar hauler wreck), as well as a chance to volunteer with local organizations in green and hawksbill turtle conservation efforts.

The islands have remained underdeveloped, which means no major hotels, restaurants, or facilities are available on the island. For those wanting to stay overnight, there are a couple of guesthouses and homestay options but little else.

Jungle trekking is another major draw, as paths here zigzag through the islands, connecting beaches with each other and cutting through dense forests where monitor lizards and monkeys live. Paved trails also connect Coral Bay with a nearby beach, as well as a picturesque fishing village.

The island of Borneo (which is divided and belongs partly to Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei) is densely covered in one of the oldest rainforests in the world and serves as a natural refuge for endangered species, such as the eastern Sumatra rhino and the Bornean orangutan.

If you want to see orangutans up close while supporting a good cause, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center is the most eco-friendly way to do just that.

Visitors go to Borneo for the rich indigenous culture, the jungle wildlife, and some of the best wild trekking in the world-much of which can be explored at the Rainforest Discovery Center , an educational destination that provides a great introduction to the island.

For those looking for more active pursuits, the two-day climb up Mount Kinabalu is a popular option.

A group of 99 islands off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is home to three protected Geoforest parks and many coconut tree-lined shores that are among the best beaches in Malaysia . Some beaches, like Pantai Cenang beach, are very popular with tourists, while beaches on the smaller northeastern islands have a backdrop of limestone cliffs and are more secluded.

For the best views of the islands and ocean, you can take the island's cable car to the top of one of the tallest mountains on the island. Once here, you can get on the 125-meter-long Langkawi Sky Bridge , a pedestrian walkway 660 meters above sea level. Just a few minutes from the cable car there's also the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls , which offer beautiful clear pools for swimming, as well as a jungle trail that runs up two different mountains.

The small museum and rice fields at the Laman Padi Rice Garden make for an interesting quick stop, while the 50-acre Legenda Langkawi Park offers a great space to explore the heritage and history of the area through manicured gardens, traditional buildings, and sculptures of ogres, mythical creatures, and other Langkawi folkloric figures.

The Cameron Highlands is a hilly region with a long tradition of tea growing on the sloping mountainside. The tea plantations are still a major attraction today and one of the most photographed spots, but the Cameron Highlands are also home to lavender and strawberry farms; orchards; herbal gardens and nurseries; and the Mossy Forest boardwalk, an always-foggy tropical evergreen environment with designated footpaths to see the local flora and fauna up close.

If you only have time to visit one plantation, BOH Tea Plantation is a good choice-not only is this the largest producer of tea in Malaysia, but visitors can also join tours to see the tea-making process up close, visit the gift shop, and explore the walkways that cut through the land.

For an inside look into the agricultural and farming practices in Malaysia, the Mardi's Agro Technology Park is an unexpectedly fun destination where you can tour the fruit orchards (including a large area dedicated to the unusual jackfruit) and even camp overnight.

Or visit the only memorabilia museum in Malaysia, The Time Tunnel , where you can see recreated rooms and shops from the early 20 th century, play vintage board games, and see photographs from pre-War days .

A protected area inhabited by a 130-million-year-old deciduous rainforest, Taman Negara offers activities and attractions to last for days. In addition to jungle trekking and bird-watching, visitors come here to climb Mount Tahan (considered one of the hardest hikes/climbs in Malaysia), try the canopy walkway, or jump on the Lata Berkoh river rapids.

Exploring the entire Gua Telinga limestone cave system would take weeks, but it's possible to join individual guided tours to see the main caves here, where you'll have to crawl, squeeze, through tight underground tunnels, and likely get wet to reach the main chambers.

The park is home to a number of endangered species, including the Malayan tiger and the Malayan peacock-pheasants-a rare sight of either one is an experience in itself.

Located against the South China Sea, the capital city of Kota Kinabalu or KK occupies the northern section of Borneo and is surrounded by virgin forest and large mountain ranges.

Nearby Mount Kinabalu (from where the city gets its name), is Malaysia's highest mountain and a highly regarded climbing destination . Because the mountain has protected status and is home to many endangered species (including orangutans and the giant vine known as Rafflesia-with five-petaled flowers that can reach up to one meter in diameter), climbing is only possible in the company of park rangers.

The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is another important tourist attraction-a park that covers almost five hectares and spreads over five islands. It offers visitors chances to sunbathe on the sloping, white, sandy beach ; explore the coral reefs ; or take to the many hiking trails that cut through the dense tropical forest.

For those interested in exploring the cultural side of KK, must-sees include the Sabah State Museum, Merdeka Square (where the declaration of Independence took place), and Monsopiad Cultural Village , where visitors can learn more about ethnic local groups.

Technically a suburb of George Town, Batu Ferringhi is a famous beach destination for both locals and foreign visitors with plenty to offer to both sunbathers and those looking for an active holiday under the sun.

Rocky outcrops and high-end resorts line the turquoise coastline here, and visitors have a chance to try parasailing and windsurfing or rent a jet ski right on the beach.

Once the sun comes down, Batu Ferringhi's most popular attraction is its night market, where travelers can get as much batik, handmade souvenirs, and local handicrafts as their heart desires.

Food stalls at the market offer the best chance in town to try traditional Malay food in a lively, colorful atmosphere of vendors and live entertainment. There's also a batik factory in town if you want to see how this unique painting technique works.

For a peek into Malaysia's jungle paradise, head to the Tropical Spice Garden , an eight-acre park with lush hiking trails, waterfalls, and an herbal garden.

The third-largest city in Malaysia is famous for its colonial-era architecture, traditional cuisine (which combines influences of Chinese, Indian, and Malay food), and beautiful unspoiled nature. Ipoh's Old Town is near the Kinta River, and it's a great place to see Chinese shophouses and the narrow "Concubine Lane," a chic area full of restaurants, pop-up stalls, and gift shops.

Ipoh's most unique feature, however, is its street art in the form of large murals drawn on buildings and bringing Ipoh's heritage to life.

While in town, make some time to stop by the Birch Memorial Clock Tower for some great pictures; visit D. R. Seenivasagam Park to see the Japanese Gardens ; or experience thrill rides at the Sunway Lost World of Tambun; a theme park that also features hot springs, a water park, and an adventure area offering ziplines and climbing walls.

Malacca City has been an important port town since the 15th century, though today it's best known for its colorful heritage buildings and fun cultural attractions. This quaint city is best explored on foot, so you can truly appreciate the eclectic mix of colonial and Peranakan architecture all around.

Malacca's main attraction is its picturesque waterfront, where you'll find plenty of lively cafés, entertainment venues, and places to visit. For example, there's the 17th-century Stadthuys building, which once served as the official residence of governors and now houses the Museum of History & Ethnography.

Jonker Street, in the heart of Chinatown, has a lively night market on weekends; great street food; and a number of important buildings, including the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum, spread over three restored townhouses, and Malaysia's oldest Chinese temple, Cheng Hoon Teng.

Not far from here is the terra-cotta-red Christ Church Melaka, a Dutch structure dating back to the 1750s and one of the most famous landmarks in Malacca City. Other great places to visit include the Melaka Sultanate Palace and the A'Famosa Fort ruins.

Tioman is the default destination for those looking for a simpler, rougher beach life - a place where beaches remain underdeveloped, there are few roads, and you're likely to share the sand with the occasional macaque or other wildlife as you walk around the island.

Air Batang or ABC Beach attracts mostly budget travelers and offers excellent sunsets, while Juara Beach is quiet and perfect for swimming. For great snorkeling, head to Salang Beach instead.

For non-divers, Tioman Island is also a great starting point for kayaking, and it's filled with jungle trekking opportunities. Organized tours can take you snorkeling to Marine Park and Ringgis islands, and there are also special organized trips to visit Benut Beach, a turtle sanctuary.

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14 best places to visit in Malaysia

07/02/2022 by Roobens

Planning to visit Malaysia? You’re gonna love it! Malaysia is a bit more developed than its neighbors, and it’s a wonderful country with diverse landscapes to see. You’ll find there national parks, beautiful beaches, delicious food, a breathtaking architecture and an unique wildlife.

Malaysia is divided into two main landmasses: Malaya on the western side with Kuala Lumpur and Penang among other places. And Borneo on the Eastern part with all the animals, the beaches and the volcanoes. What to do in Malaysia? Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Malaysia, then I’ll share Malaysia travel tips!

Table of Contents

Things to do in Malaysia

Cameron highlands.

Cameron Highlands is an area of Malaysia made of hills and valleys, located between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. You can admire there beautiful tea plantations. You can also go on a hike where you’ll walk between the plantations, around lakes and you’ll admire waterfalls. The Cameron Highlands are also home to lavender and strawberry farms, orchards, and honey bee farms.

You have to see BOH Tea Plantation to see the tea-making process. There’s also the Time Tunnel museum where you learn about the history of the area. It’s a bit colder here than in the rest in the country (we’re at high altitude). Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to visit the Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur.

Perhentian islands

The Perhentian islands are on the east coast of Malaya, less visited than the west coast. So there are less people, however the islands are wonderful! They’re one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia! White sand beaches, crystal-clear water… Perfect if you want to relax, go diving, snorkeling, or jungle trekking and see lizards and monkeys.

There are two islands: Perhentian Kecil for the backpackers/party animals. And Perhentian Besar, quieter and caters more to families and couples. FYI, between November and March, you can’t access the islands because of the monsoon. Click here to find your accommodation.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur (often called KL) is the capital of Malaysia. It’s mostly known for the Petronas towers but there’s more than that in  Kuala Lumpur. It’s interesting to admire the architecture, the are numerous malls and you can feel a mix of Malay, Chinese and Indian culture. Go to the central market and also the Kuala Lumpur tower, the botanical garden, the Batu caves and of course the Petronas towers. I wrote a detailed article about my visit to Kuala Lumpur . Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to find the best activities.

Melaka is a small town in the south of Malaysia you can explore by foot. It was an important trading place in the past (its location was strategic). The Portuguese, the Dutch, the British and the Indians fought to control Melaka, and you can feel the influence of all of them today. It’s probably why it’s one of the most interesting places in Malaysia.

Go to the night market at Jonker Street, visit Dutch Square in the city center, Cheng Hoon Teng (the oldest Chinese temple of Malaysia) and Melaka Straits mosque. I wrote a detailed article about my visit to Melaka . Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to go there on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur.

George Town

George Town is the second largest city of Malaysia. Located in Penang it’s one of the most famous places in Malaysia! Why? It’s known for its street food! Head to Gurney Drive or Chulia Street and try it! George Town is also known for its street art, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Head to the clan Jetties, to Penang Hill and Khoo Kongsi. I wrote a detailed article about my visit to George Town . Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to find the best activities.

Langkawi is located northwest of Malaysia, very close to Thailand. One of the most popular Malaysia tourist spots. Perfect place to relax, go snorkeling, or eat seafood. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach with palm trees, restaurants along the beach and water activities. Take the cable car to see the Sky Bridge, admire the Seven Wells waterfall and go on a mangrove tour. I wrote a detailed article about my visit to Langkawi . Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to find the best activities.

Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malaysia, and it’s understandable! You can go jungle trekking, bird-watching, see tigers, peacocks or explore the caves with a guide. You can try the canopy walkway and see life high in the trees. There are also night safaris if you want to. Click here to find your accommodation. Click here to go on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur.

Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s in Borneo and it’s not easily accessible (by plane or by road, boat and hiking!). But it’s worth it. It features Southeast Asia’s longest cave system, there’s a canopy walkway and numerous animals: calaos, bats, gibbons, deers… You can go kayaking, mountain bikiing, etc. You have to see the  extraordinary limestone karst formations! Click here to find your accommodation.

Tioman Island

Tioman Island is on the east coast of Malaya, and it’s not the most visited place. However it’s a wonderful island. ABC Beach is the most popular beach, Juara Beach is quieter and perfect for swimming. Salang Beach is ideal for snorkeling. You can enjoy numerous activities: kayaking, trekking, hiking, biking, etc. There are beautiful waterfalls in Tioman island! Click here to find your accommodation.

Kuching is the largest city of Borneo, and it’s a good starting point to explore Borneo’s rainforest. Kuching means “cat”, there are cat statues all over the city. It’s a modern city with skyscrapers but also a lush jungle. There are many markets, Chinese temples, gardens, and locals selling handicrafts. Click here to find your accommodation.

Sipadan is a small island located northeast of Borneo. A quiet island with white sand beaches. It’s actually one of the most renowned islands in the world to go scuba diving. Underwater you can see turtles, sharks, barracudas or manta rays.

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu (often called KK) is in the north of Borneo. The city is surrounded by virgin forest and large mountain ranges. The city center is small, but go to the floating mosque, wander in the market and have a walk along the sea. Most attractions are just outside the city. Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park allows you to relax one of the five islands and go hiking. But don’t miss Kota Kinabalu national park. It allows you to climb mount Kinabalu. Click here to find your accommodation.

Ipoh is the third largest city of Malaysia and it’s considered Malaysia’s culinary capital. The food is delicious. Ipoh is also known for its post-colonial archtecture. Admire the street art, have a walk in the old town and don’t miss the Japanese gardens. There’s also Sunway Lost World, a nice theme park. And Kellie’s castle too, the ruins of Malaysia’s only castle. Click here to find your accommodation.

Kota Bharu is located northeast of Malaya, very close to the Thailand border. It’s ften used as a stopover to get to the Perhentian Islands. But there are things to do there. There are many museums covering the history and culture of the area, like the Royal museum our the Museum of Royal Traditions and Ceremonies. There are numerous markets too, such as the central market. The sea is not far, you can go rafting or diving there. Kota Bharu is a conservative city. Click here to find your accommodation.

These were the best places to visit in Malaysia! You can also check out this backpacking Southeast Asia guide! Now here are a few Malaysia travel tips!

Malaysia travel budget

• Accommodation is not expensive in Malaysia. A night in a hostel dorm costs around 25-50 MYR ($6-12). A night in a mid-range hotel costs between 75 and 200 MYR ($18-48). Prices start at 200 MYR ($48) per night to stay in a luxury hotel. Click here to find your accommodation.
• Food is not expensive either. Street food is delicious and costs 5-15 MYR ($1-3.50). A dish in a local restaurant costs between 10 and 20 MYR ($2.50-5). Western food (pizza, burger) is expensive and is not good so don’t touch it. If you really want to, you’ll pay around 50 MYR ($12). A beer costs around 15 MYR ($3.50).
• Regarding transportation, a subway ride in Kuala Lumpur (KL) costs between 1 and 5 MYR ($0.25-1), depending on the distance. Bus rides, either in KL or elsewhere, cost more or less the same. The taxis are often unmetered, so be sure to agree on a fare beforehand. You have to haggle ! To get around in the country, there’s the bus. A bus ride to go anywhere in the country costs between 40 and 60 MYR ($9.50-14.50). Train rides are a bit more expensive. Finally, there are domestic flights, which cost between 100 and 300 MYR ($25-70).
• Regarding activities, the prices vary a lot. From 10 MYR ($2.50) to get in a museum to 100 MYR ($24) to get on top of the Kuala Lumpur tower. Generally speaking, activities costs around 20-40 MYR ($5-9.50).

Basically, if you’re traveling on a budget,  you can get by with $40 per day. Otherwise you’ll spend about $75+ per day.

How to get around in Malaysia

In Kuala Lumpur only, there’s the subway. Otherwise there’s the bus and taxis in all major cities of the country. To get around in the country, you can either take the bus, the train or a flight. Domestic flights serve many cities in the country (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu…).

Best time to visit Malaysia

It’s quite hot (20°C-30°C/68°F-86°F)and humid all year round in Malaysia. There are two monsoons in Malaysia: from November to March on the east coast (Perhentian islands…) and from April to October on the west coast (Langkawi, Penang…). The west coast monsoon is less violent and the rain doesn’t last long. It’s better to go to Malaysia between March and early November.

Visa policy of Malaysia

If you’re an European citizen or coming from a Western country, you don’t need a visa to visit Malaysia. You can stay up to 90 days. You can find all the details here .

Safety in Malaysia

Malaysia is a safe country. There are very few crimes or attacks targeting tourists. It’s one of the best places to solo travel . There are a few scams , like inflated prices when you take the taxi or pickpockets in big cities. That’s it. However avoid Eastern Sabah from Kudat to Tawau. There are kidnappings in this area. If you don’t there, you shouldn’t have any problems. Before traveling, don’t forget to get travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. Click here to get one.

Packing list for Malaysia

I’m not gonna list all the things to pack for Malaysia. I don’t know how long you’re gonna stay there, where you’re going in Malaysia, what you’re going to do and when you’ll visit. Take all the necessary clothes, toiletries, and also:

• hand sanitizer
• combination locks
• a money belt
• a security cable lock
• a travel plug adapter
• a stainless steel water bottle
• a lifestraw (a water bottle with a purifier)
• a menstrual cup (for the ladies)

Here’s a full list of travel accessories , which can be useful!

What to eat in Malaysia

There are some really good dishes you have to try in Malaysia! Nasi lemak is a very popular dish. It’s rice cooked in coconut milk with a boiled egg, vegetables, meat, peanuts and spices. Apam balik is a pancake filled with sugar, peanuts and corn. Satay are skewers of chicken, beef, or pork with peanuts sauce, cucumber and onions. Laksa is a noodle soup with meat or fish and vegetables. The recipe changes depending on the city. Rojak is a fruit and vegetable salad. Finally roti canai is a crispy creme with a thin curry sauce.

You can now visit Malaysia and enjoy your time there thanks to this Malaysia travel guide!

• Traveling soon? Check out my travel resources page!
• Want a tailor-made trip to Malaysia? Get a free quote here !
• Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it. Here’s why use a VPN when traveling .

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Related Posts

Getting around Malaysia is child’s play with these tropical tips

Feb 12, 2022 • 7 min read

Pedestrian-only Jalan Petaling turns into a bustling night market after dark © Tom Bonaventure / Getty Images

Malaysia offers two countries for the price of one – cosmopolitan Peninsular Malaysia, with its historic cities, tea plantations, offshore islands and rich multicultural heritage, and rugged Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, where the travel gets less comfortable but more thrilling once you leave Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.

The good news is that getting around both parts of Malaysia is easy, though the speed, frequency, and comfort of travel can drop off once you reach Borneo. For easy connections and painless journey times, stick to the peninsula. 

Here’s a guide to the best ways to get around both sides of Malaysia. 

Tips for crossing between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo

There are no direct ferry services between the Malaysian Peninsula and Borneo. It’s possible to island-hop through Indonesia by boat and bus, crossing from Java to Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) and traveling overland to reach Sabah and Sarawak , but in practice, almost everyone flies. 

Fly to avoid slow, uncomfortable road journeys in Malaysia

While many travelers prefer to skip internal flights for environmental reasons, there are some journeys on Borneo where the choice is between a 45-minute flight and a 12-hour dirt road trip by jeep. To reach remote areas such as Gunung Mulu National Park and the Kelabit Highlands, a domestic flight with MASwings is by far the most practical option. 

Flying is also the best way to travel between the Malaysian Peninsula and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak). Frequent flights link the cities of the peninsula, and while Malaysia’s airlines have a questionable safety record, discount fares on Air Asia and Malindo Air – or even on the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines – can be tempting. 

Take the train in Malaysia for calm comfort

Regular, inexpensive trains make it easy to zip between the towns of the Malaysian Peninsula, with easy connections to Thailand and Singapore . The West Coast line runs from Padang Besar on the Thai border to Johor Bahru , just over the causeway from Singapore, while the East Coast or “Jungle” Line branches off at Gemas and traces the east coast towards Kota Bharu in Kelantan.

Trains are less frequent than buses and cost slightly more, but they offer a calm, gentle ride through Malaysia’s lush tropical scenery, and pull into a string of historic British-built train stations in cities such as Kuala Lumpur , Ipoh and Butterworth . Services are operated by KTM using a mix of electric and diesel trains; second-class seats are perfectly comfortable for daytime hops.

Buses offer cheap, convenient travel at almost any time 

Dozens of private bus companies jostle for trade in Malaysia, keeping fares low and services frequent. Konsortium Transnasional Berhad is the largest operator, but there are plenty of competitors. At any bus station, wander around the ticket hall to compare prices and destinations between companies. 

Buses are typically fast and comfortable, with airline-style seats and air-conditioning so cold it can almost turn your mango juice into a frozen dessert (bring long sleeves or shiver). They’re also remarkably cheap, even on long routes, and leave to major destinations night and day – on the peninsula, you can often rock up and get a seat on a bus leaving within the hour to major destinations. 

Longer trips on Borneo need more planning – there might be only one or two buses a day, so book in advance with travel agencies, online or directly with the bus drivers a few days before you want to travel. 

Go by boat to reach island resorts and jungle outposts

Plenty of ferries buzz from coastal ports to islands such as Penang , Pulau Langkawi and myriad islands off the coast of Borneo. There are also international routes connecting Sabah and Sarawak via Brunei , but no direct services between Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia. On any sea crossing, check the location of life vests and emergency exits, and avoid travel in stormy weather (particularly during the monsoon).   

Traveling by river in Borneo is one of Malaysia’s great adventures, though journeys here tend to be organized cruises rather than no-frills passenger-boat rides of the kind found in Kalimantan. Journeys up the Sungai Kinabatangan in Sabah are still hard to beat, with ample opportunities to spot wildlife en route. The three-hour river trip to Taman Negara National Park from Kuala Tembeling is another evocative jungle journey.

Rent a car for local sightseeing  

Peninsular Malaysia is one of the few places in Asia where you might want to rent a self-drive car. Roads are well-maintained, road signs are clear and drivers broadly follow the rules (though you’ll want to give way to speeding buses and trucks). Avoid Kuala Lumpur’s tangled traffic system – stick to hiring a car in smaller towns for local exploring.  

A license from home is usually enough to hire a car but most hire firms only rent to drivers aged 23 or over. Avis, Hertz and local companies have offices at airports and in popular tourist hubs. Expect to pay from RM190 (US$45) per day, including insurance. Parking lots and metered on-street parking are easy to find, sometimes with payment via an app.

Rent a moped for easy island exploring 

Mopeds and small motorcycles can be hired inexpensively in popular hangouts such as the Cameron Highlands , Penang and Pulau Langkawi, and are great for local exploring. Bigger bikes can be hired in Kota Kinabalu , Kuching and Miri for tackling the tougher roads on Borneo. 

A standard home driving license should be sufficient to hire a moped, but you may need a motorcycle license for larger bikes. Check the hire terms to make sure you have adequate insurance; most firms ask you to leave your passport as a deposit.  

Local transport is convenient and inexpensive 

Colorful rickshaws trundle around Melaka and Penang but most locals get around by city bus, taxi or rideshare. Malaysia’s taxi drivers don’t need much persuading to use the meter, but it can be hard to find a taxi away from shopping malls and transport hubs; summoning a rideshare via the Grab app is almost always the easiest option after dark. 

Most big cities have cheap local bus services, and Kuala Lumpur has an extensive (though poorly integrated) system of overland trains, elevated trains, and a monorail. Out on the islands, it’s usually a choice between a taxi or a rented moped. On Borneo, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu other large towns have local buses and taxis.

Accessible transportation in Malaysia

For those with mobility issues, Malaysia can be a tricky place to travel. Where footpaths are present, curbs are high, routes are often blocked by construction work and crossings are few and far between, often involving climbing an overpass via stairs. 

KL is perhaps easier than other cities, with wheelchair-accessible trains and stations, including the KLIA Ekspres train to the airport. Some buses are also wheelchair friendly, or you can use the door-to-door Rapid Mobiliti minivan service. 

Elsewhere, use trains and planes for longer hops and taxis for local trips, or contact specialist tour operator Ace Altair Travels . For more information on accessible travel, see Lonely Planet’s Accessible Travel Resources page. 

Why boats are my favorite way to travel in Malaysia 

Sure, the trains are stress-free and buses go everywhere, but boats are the most evocative way to travel in Malaysia, whether that means riding the ferry from Butterworth to Penang or chugging like a latter-day jungle explorer up a turgid river in Borneo. 

If I had to pick one trip, it would be a cruise up the Sungai Kinabatangan in Sabah. This vast cocoa-brown, crocodile-infested river coils inland from the coast near Sandakan , and every python turn offers a chance of spotting orangutans, proboscis monkeys, hornbills and other big-ticket Borneo wildlife.

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The 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024

T O BORROW from the poet Mary Oliver, what will you do with your few wild and precious vacation days? Now’s the time for figuring that out—and after looking at the latest travel trends, notable openings and immersive itineraries, we’ve got ideas. On this list of the 10 places we’re most excited about visiting this year, you’ll find spots still refreshingly free of tourist crowds but also new reasons to love the blockbuster destinations you thought you already knew. Whatever your preferred style of travel—from island-hopping by canoe in the Land of 10,000 Lakes to following your stomach around one of South America’s most exciting culinary hubs—we’re confident something here will unlock an urge to pack up and go.

The pandemic might have brought Belmond’s swanky Eastern & Oriental Express train to a temporary halt, but the luxury travel company used the downtime to refresh the train’s wood-paneled cabins with wickerwork and Malaysian embroidery, and brought Taiwanese chef André Chiang on board to steer restaurants that will feature a fusion of Southeast Asian cuisines. The train’s new routes, which launch in February, spotlight Malaysia’s wildly diverse landscapes. Excursions include Vespa tours around historic George Town, beach breaks on jungle-cloaked Langkawi island and treks in the rainforests of Taman Negara to spot hornbills, tapirs, and—for the very lucky—Malayan tigers. Fresh hotel openings in Kuala Lumpur, a food-mad city that just launched its first Michelin guide, make for an excellent excuse to linger before heading to the train station. Homegrown brand Else Retreats opened its first boutique hotel in the 1930s Lee Rubber Building in Chinatown, and the Park Hyatt will soon take over the top floors of Merdeka 118, the second-tallest tower in the world.

Lamu, Kenya

Kenya’s wildlife-rich safari parks remain its main draw, but new developments in Lamu, a palm-tufted island just off the country’s northeastern coast, offer sunseekers a pleasingly culture-packed and hushed alternative to the big-ticket resorts of Mombasa and Zanzibar. Global highfliers weathered the pandemic in the whitewashed luxury villas of Lamu’s ritzy Shela village, but the new Jannah Lamu, a scattered collection of suites by Kenya-raised designer Anna Trzebinski, makes the cobblestoned Old Town, East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlement, newly enticing. The recently launched NaiSabah, a traditional Omani dhow boat with three staterooms and a breezy deck decorated with intricate woodwork, offers multi-night itineraries around the Lamu archipelago, promising days packed with beach picnics, diving expeditions and nature walks. Finally, the Lamu Museum, which reopened last October after a year-long refurbishment, delivers a dose of cultural and historical context to this fascinating one-time trading hub—and a welcome respite from all that sunshine.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

The “Black Summer” bush fires of 2019-2020 destroyed half of its wildlife habitat, but in the years since, Kangaroo Island—9 miles off Australia’s southern coast—has bounced back. Nicknamed Australia’s Galápagos, this 1,700-square-mile speck of land is once again one of the best places to encounter wild koalas and kangaroos, along with penguins, whales, platypuses and wallabies. Two new lodges come staffed with seasoned guides who take the guesswork out of finding these creatures. Sea Dragon, a boutique hotel planted atop 250 acres of sea-facing land, reopened in 2023 with stargazing and bird-watching walks as well as new safari-style expeditions. Southern Ocean Lodge, which burned down entirely, reopened in December in a lair-like seacliff aerie, offering sunrise run-ins with wild sea lions and sunset sessions fueled by local wines and forest truffles. New trails on the island include a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the aptly named seaside granite formations of Remarkable Rocks and the first sections of the planned 23-mile-long Dudley Peninsula Trail, beginning at the historic Cape Willoughby Lighthouse.

Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, has long drawn in-the-know visitors from mainland Asia. But lately a supersize dose of new tourism projects has made its night markets, temples and onsen (hot springs) more widely accessible. Last year saw the opening of Hoshino Resorts’ budget-friendly OMO5 in the buzzy city of Kumamoto, as well as the glass-wrapped Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka. This year, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki opens in a former orphanage for atomic bomb survivors, and indie upstart Takasaki Stay allows for more-comfortable visits to the nearby, laid-back Goto Islands. Kyushu’s Tourism Organization also launches four new itineraries focusing on local cuisine, ceramics and nature. Densha otaku (train geeks) will celebrate a new 5-hour sightseeing route launching in spring and serving seasonal bento boxes alongside views of the hissing volcanoes and rocky coastlines between Fukuoka’s Hakata Station and Beppu, Japan’s seaside onsen hub.

Kansas City, Mo.

Given the zeitgeist, it would be understandable to think Kansas City made this list because of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. But the city was set to deliver the goods long before it became a fixture of gossip columns. CPKC Stadium, one of the few soccer stadiums in the world built for a top-division women’s team, the Kansas City Current, will open in March, doubling as a venue for concerts, festivals and farmers markets. In other athletic firsts, KC will host pickleball’s inaugural PickleCon in August, with 100 courts devoted to the unstoppable sporting fad. Rock Island Bridge, a waterfront highline, will soon connect Kansas and Missouri with a string of bars and cafes. The outdoors-oriented will also be able to canoe or kayak in the Kansas River below. Pennway Point, a downtown entertainment district opening this spring, will feature a beer garden, a BBQ joint, live music and a Ferris wheel. Those looking for the city’s famous smoked meat and jazz can rest easy that even under the celebrity spotlight, the soul of the city remains intact.

Prague, Czech Republic

“Prague never lets you go. This dear little mother has sharp claws,” wrote Franz Kafka. And, judging by the tourist numbers, those claws have reach. This year ushers in a new reason, however, to visit the much-loved city. Kafka’s hometown is marking the 100th anniversary of the Czech-born, German-speaking Jewish writer’s death with events across the city. Beginning in March, Prague City Tourism will offer literary walking tours, and a vintage tram will carry bibliophiles to sites where the author lived and worked. In May, the Museum of Czech Literature unveils a new exhibition featuring multimedia installations, letters written by the author and early editions of his books. All summer, the Jewish Museum will host Kafka-focused film screenings in Josefov, Prague’s historic Jewish quarter, while a mobile app called “Searching for Odradek,” a reference to a Kafka protagonist, will help re-create the Prague Kafka knew. Finally, the Goethe-Institut, a German cultural center, will be putting on a string of readings and theatrical productions. And when the Kafkaesque existential dread gets to be too much, the city’s legendary pubs await.

Quintana Roo, Mexico

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula may be dismissed by some as a haven for spring breakers, but this year brings proof that there’s much more to the state of Quintana Roo than all-inclusive resorts. SHA Wellness Clinic, known for specialized longevity treatments, opens a branch this month in the town of Costa Mujeres. Architect Fabiano Continanza designed the slopes and spirals of the retreat’s building as a nod to the shape of the DNA molecule. An hour south, the Riviera Maya Edition hotel at Kanai just opened in a 620-acre nature reserve, its neutral-hued décor suggesting a sense of urban cool teleported deep into the jungle. Last month’s ribbon-cutting of a new airport in Tulum adds more fuel to that town’s decadeslong boom, but its quiet side still thrives at new boutique sites like XELA Tulum, a once-private villa renovated into a minimalist hotel. Near the border with Belize sits Bacalar, a diminutive town hugging a 26-mile-long translucent lagoon. Big chains like Banyan Tree have announced plans to move in soon, so get there before they do and check in to the new Boca de Agua hotel, crafted by Frida Escobedo, who was recently tapped to design a forthcoming contemporary art wing at New York’s MoMA.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

In Buenos Aires, an often-lauded culinary scene is shining brighter than ever. The neighborhood of Belgrano presents a handy introduction to two core elements of daily life in Argentina: fútbol and meat. After a match at El Monumental, South America’s largest stadium, dine at Corte Comedor’s modern parrilla (or grill) with hard-to-find cuts of beef, succulent veggies and charcuterie from sister spot Corte Charcuteria. In the art-gallery-packed neighborhood of Villa Crespo, head to Chuí, which offers a surprisingly varied plant-based menu, or Julia, a 22-seater specializing in colorful French-leaning fare. In Chacarita, try the newcomer Ácido, which takes inspiration for its menu—plus its delightfully kitschy china—from grandmothers everywhere. At MN Santa Inés, in the low-key barrio of La Paternal, chef Jazmín Marturet plays with recipes developed during trips to Asia and Latin America. And for travelers who follow the stars, the grand finale awaits at the art-on-a-plate adventure on offer at Aramburu, granted two Michelin stars in November. Buen provecho.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minn.

You can still drink straight from many of the 1,200 lakes in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, the million-acre liquid maze just shy of the Canadian border. Often navigated via multiday canoe camping trips, this boreal wilderness grants its 250,000 annual visitors time on solid ground, too, in rustic lodges and on extensive island hiking trails. With mining interests eyeing the region, every tourist visit this year plays a pivotal role in the area’s conservation. Start yours with a drive along the Gunflint Trail, a 57-mile national scenic byway leading to the Boundary Waters. At midpoint, grab a cardamom roll from Loon’s Nest Coffee, opened in the fall of 2023, before joining a guided paddle with one of the many locally run outfitters. Come nightfall, check in to the freshly updated Gunflint Lodge, or upgrade your campsite with a mobile sauna delivered to your patch of woods by spa operators Sisu + Löyly. In the morning, wake up with the loons—and dunk your cup straight into the deep-blue water to hydrate.

Balearic Islands, Spain

Spain’s Balearic Islands are ditching their dance-all-night rep for something more Zen. Think fewer foam parties, more meditation circles. Ibiza, once synonymous with shot-slinging nights, now appeals to mindfulness mavens, a metamorphosis on full display at the Mirador de Dalt Vila, a Relais & Châteaux hotel aimed squarely at relaxers, not ravers. In Mallorca, Richard Branson’s new Son Bunyola hotel ditches the island’s DJ parties in favor of scenic cycling and languorous afternoons in the 92-foot-long pool. Rafael Nadal’s ZEL hotel beckons with a restaurant serving Mediterranean and Basque fare and a pro-approved gym. On the island of Minorca, protected status keeps a short leash on development, so newcomers focus on renewing existing properties rather than bulldozing and building. Take the island’s latest outpost, Son Vell, an 18th-century Venetian-style manor turned into a 34-room hotel featuring yoga classes, al fresco movie screenings and, best of all, not a thumping bass line within earshot.

Contributors: Kiera Carter (Kansas City), David Farley (Prague), Adam H. Graham (Kangaroo Island and Kyushu), Jacqueline Kehoe (Boundary Waters), Jordi-Lippe-McGraw (Balearic Islands), Suchi Rudra (Buenos Aires), Chris Schalkx (Malaysia and Lamu) and Michaela Trimble (Quintana Roo)