Where to Go in Malaysia

The Best Areas to Stay in Malaysia

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Within a short distance traveled by public transportation from any area along peninsular Malaysia are postcard-worthy tropical beaches, colonial-era highlands covered with tea plantations, thriving metropolitan regions packed with shopping centers and markets, and historic towns with a cultural heritage dominated by Chinese and Indian minorities. Malaysia is pleasantly different from Singapore (which can be overly expensive and seem sterile), Vietnam (difficult to navigate solely using public transit), and Thailand (where language barriers are problematic), and most locals across Malaysia converse proficiently in English.

As close in proximity to Thailand as the Malaysian mainland, the haven of relaxation known as Langkawi Island offers pristine beaches and, unusually, it caters well to travelers who prefer less expensive options. Especially culturally significant and lively, Penang is a compact island that maintains its beautifully restored colonial legacy and currently is dominated by the Chinese, especially in the characteristically spirited capital city, Georgetown. Nearby on the mainland, the lovable town of Taiping is set alongside a remarkable lake and gardens, but curiously it is overlooked by tourists.

Despite major advancement, the Cameron Highlands still retain a pleasing early colonial aura, fully with Tudor-fashioned construction, strawberry farms, and tea plantations. Closely vying with Singapore as one of Asia’s great urban areas, the energetic Malaysian funds, Kuala Lumpur (KL), is smartly planned, simple to navigate around, and filled with attractions. Roughly halfway between KL and Singapore, the historical city of Melaka (Malacca) has an elegant riverside position and fascinating aged town crammed with mosques, churches, temples, and an excessive assortment of exhibitions.

Just across the strait from Singapore, the prominent city of Johor Bahru is a passageway for the eastern and western coasts of peninsular Malaysia, and certainly worthwhile visiting. Further along the east coast are two clusters of charming islands, which include the petite and romantic Tioman Island and Perhentian Island, close to the border with Thailand. Often neglected and over 1,000km across the South China Sea are two historic anomalies: the states of Sarawak and Sabah, which share the world’s third-largest island, Borneo, with Indonesia and Brunei. The respective capitals of Kuching and Kota Kinabalu are well developed and offer something rather distinct to the peninsula.

The Best Places to Stay in Malaysia

Best Areas in Malaysia for…

  • Best Region in Malaysia for Sightseeing: Kuala Lumpur (KL)
    The capital can offer even more sights than Penang and Melaka because it`s so much more expansive. Within easy walking distance in the city center and through the excellent public transportation system are temples used by Indian minority groups, bustling markets filling the vast Chinatown area, and beautifully restored colonial-era buildings. Additional must-see attractions include the stalls and cafés at Central Market, the awe-inspiring views from the Petronas Twin Towers, and a cluster of first-rate museums located around the spacious lake gardens. It`s also very convenient to take day trips by train to appealing regional towns such as Seremban, Shah Alam, and Klang, or via cable car (and bus) to Genting Highlands, an entertainment complex resembling Las Vegas featuring casinos and theme parks amid jungle-covered mountains.
  • The best region in Malaysia known for beaches is the island of Langkawi, which offers lovely coastal scenery.

    • Imagining sand with the nature and shading of talc, packs of edged palms heaped with coconuts, and sparkling, peaceful waters colored emerald and turquoise. Most beaches are possessed by extravagance resorts yet as yet open to the general population, while some stretches of sand are so by all accounts underdeveloped that it`s simple to escape the groups – and snorkeling inside swimming separation from the shore includes hugely to the fascination. Other beaches along lovely coves on uninhabited islands close by are just available by coordinated boat trips.

  • Top Region in Malaysia for Water Excursions: Langkawi Island
    Only fully developed for tourism in recent decades, Langkawi is within an archipelago of over 100 islands, many just limestone protrusions; others with coves, caves and pockets of forests. Once notorious as a haven for pirates but now part of a protected marine park, the seascapes are breathtaking and some areas inhabited by indigenous ‘sea gypsy’ groups. Visitors can swim in fresh and saltwater lakes; admire birdlife from boardwalks; snorkel among fish and reefs in clear waters; or just sunbathe at pristine beaches. Boat trips are easy to arrange – as part of a bigger tour or chartered with a boatman – from hotels and travel agencies across the island and at the boat terminal in the main town, Kuah.
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Outdoor Activities: Cameron Highlands
    Malaysia boasts beaches perfect for water activities (see below) along with forests and mountains fit for more adventurous pursuits. However, the majority of Malaysians and visitors (mostly from Singapore) do not relish outdoor activities, but some wealthier and daring locals enjoy trekking through peninsular Malaysia`s mountains and ascending one of Southeast Asia`s tallest peaks near Kota Kinabalu. A more accessible option for most travelers involves hiking (rather than extended trekking) around the cooler Cameron Highlands region. This area also appeals to foreign backpackers interested in exploring the mountains, forests, and tea plantations using maps and well-marked trails or hiring guides to remote peaks, waterfalls, and villages of indigenous orang asli (`original people`)
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Water Sports: Batu Ferringhi, Penang

    • While Penang is not a tropical vacation destination like Langkawi and Tioman islands, the primary beach area of Batu Ferringhi does offer a modest range of activities on and above the sea. Midway along the north coast and easy to reach by public bus from the capital Georgetown, Batu Ferringhi is popular – mostly among Malaysians – for jet-skiing and parasailing, but some prefer simply sitting on a `banana boat` and being towed along from the back of a speedboat.

  • Best Region in Malaysia for Diving and Snorkeling: Tioman Island

    • While not as developed or appealing as Thailand for underwater exploration, scuba diving excursions can be organized at Kota Kinabalu, capital of the remote Sabah province, and the stunning Perhentian Island. Tioman Island takes first place, however, for its treasure trove of coral reefs and marine life, including frolicking dolphins. Divers appreciate that Tioman is compact and offers good value, and trips are easy to arrange through agencies providing international-standard safety, equipment, and courses. Additionally, there are several WWII shipwrecks for more experienced divers and snorkeling is possible within swimming distance of the shore – and masks and flippers are readily available for rent.

  • Best Region in Malaysia for Nightlife: Kuala Lumpur (KL)
    As an energetic Asian capital, the range of activities available after dark across KL is extraordinary. Despite hefty taxes on alcohol and a Muslim majority, there are several bars – but not as many available in Thailand or those that attract the sort of hard-drinking tourists found on Bali. On the rooftops (including on a helipad) of various 5-star hotels are lavish bars, while some heritage-style hotels offer more relaxed lounges for cocktails and cigars. More affluent locals may frequent nightclubs and jazz clubs, however these are usually somewhat mild compared to cities outside of Malaysia. More refined events held at diverse arts and cultural centers often showcase the diversity of Malaysia’s population: families can watch movies at an English-language cinema complex, and seeing a Bollywood blockbuster in a colonial-era movie theater is an experience unlike any other.
  • The top area of Malaysia for culinary delights and eateries is Georgetown in Penang.
    Truly underrated but genuine attraction of visiting Malaysia is its cuisine diversity. While not as renowned as Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, the variety is genuinely remarkable because of the blend of Malays, Indians, and Chinese, and the unique Peranakan cuisine originating from descendants of Malays and Chinese. Arguably the finest place for wide selection is Penang’s enchanting colonial capital, Georgetown, particularly along the narrow lanes dominated by the significant Chinese minority. The selection is incredible across the city: from improvised market stalls and sidewalk cafés catering for locals to European-style bistros in 5-star hotels overlooking the sea. Several tourists flock to the hawker centers where food stalls are set up each evening in the eastern outskirts, many facing the sea.
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Atmosphere & Heritage: Georgetown, Penang
    The capital of Penang is conveniently compact, making exploration on foot feasible (or via free public bus) of this city`s myriad attractions reflecting its multicultural character. For instance, Indian residents have Muslim mosques, Hindu temples, and curry restaurants; Chinese run marketplace stalls and incense-filled temples; and Malays work in many of the island`s tourist sites. Georgetown proudly exhibits its colonial legacy through whitewashed churches and comprehensive museums along with a restored fortress in downtown. Nearby the ferry terminal, Chinese `clans` reside in wooden houses above the water, and authentic kampungs (villages) can also be visited around the interior and southern coast
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Cultural Classes: Kuala Lumpur (KL)
    With fewer (non-Singaporean) visitors, cultural activities like cooking classes (frequent in Thailand) and art/crafts lessons (popular in Bali) are rarely provided in Malaysia. An exception is KL, where a few courses are offered – more for expats living in the capital, but still available to tourists. At MyBatik, students can learn about the batik process of designing clothes and bags, as well as tie-dying andteh tarik (milky tea), while at Lazat Cooking Classes, 3-course meals are cooked and then consumed. Similar cultural activities are offered in the historic cities of Melaka and Georgetown (Penang)
  • Best Regions in Malaysia for Walking and Cycling: Taiping and Langkawi Island
    The downtown area within the agreeable town of Taiping has manageable traffic levels and is positioned next to vast gardens surrounding a lake. The lawns are very green and the raintrees are huge, providing cover along the quiet road circling the lake – and bicycles can be rented at a couple of shops in the area. Spending time exploring the zoo, especially at night, is also very entertaining, while those seeking more adventure may want to hike to the hill station on Bukit Larut. Most roads around Langkawi Island are flat and have relatively little traffic, and some shops and hotels rent bicycles, but the roads are too long and lacking in shade for walking.
  • Leading Region in Malaysia for Purchases: Kuala Lumpur (KL)
    The most extensive collections of places to purchase goods are within the largest urban center. In the location known as Chinatown, lively produce markets and the main thoroughfare practically morphs into an outdoor marketplace each afternoon. Additional produce markets generally cater to individuals of Malay ethnicity (who appear nearly outnumbered by people of Chinese and Indian heritage in some regions), while the Central Market is densely packed with stalls offering remarkable souvenirs. These days, most locals favor shopping malls and precincts like Bukit Bintang that can match European sizes, qualities, and varieties. And numerous markets and malls are centrally located and easily accessible either on foot or using the excellent public transportation system.
  • Best Regions in Malaysia for Historical Significance: Melaka and the city of Georgetown in Penang
    Both of these popular and historic cities proudly showcase their heritage – whether converted mansions and fort remains from the colonial era or other buildings not connected to European rule, especially among areas settled by the Chinese a century or more ago. So many of the attractions in Melaka, including the large number of museums, date from the days when the British, Dutch, and Portuguese fought for control of this ancient port. In contrast, Penang was colonized only by the British, so the capital, Georgetown, is dotted with whitewashed old churches and government buildings, and dominated by remnants of a huge fort.
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Tranquility: Taiping
    While many tourists hurry between Penang and the Cameron Highlands, they unfortunately overlook this delightful and easygoing town. Taiping, which means `everlasting peace` in Chinese, has its center beautifully situated next to a calm lake surrounded by vast lawns and century-old raintrees – an ideal place for strolling, cycling, using a paddleboat, or simply relaxing. Adding to the authentic sense of tranquility is the background of mountains with a hill station accessible via a strenuous hike or wild jeep ride.
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Families: Melaka
    This historically charming city is ideal for families traveling with kids for several reasons. First, it is very easy to reach by comfortable buses from the major cities of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore (but is not close to an airport or train station). Second, Melaka has so much to see and do within a notably compact area including museums, malls, and interesting riverboat trips, street markets with live music, walking and cycling tours of Chinatown, and various festivals. And with so many families visiting Melaka from the nearby major cities, a number of theme parks and other family focused attractions (e.g. a zoo) are also located nearby.
  • Best Value Region in Malaysia: Taiping
    While Malaysia continues to be fairly affordable, it`s understandable that major metropolitan regions and famous tourist sites (e.g. Melaka, Penang, and the Cameron Highlands) are comparatively more costly – especially during peak periods (i.e. weekends and local school holidays). In contrast, Taiping sees little foreign or domestic visitor traffic, allowing most lodging to maintain simplicity and affordability. The majority of services like shops, cafes and bars primarily cater to and price accordingly for residents rather than international guests, and the compact downtown perimeter permits navigation without reliance on taxis (which operate without meters and at inflated rates throughout Malaysia).
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Transport: Kuala Lumpur (KL)
    As the administrative and most populous urban center, KL offers a world-class public transportation infrastructure encompassing trains, light rail, and monorail radiating from a thoughtfully designed transportation hub in the city center. This extremely dependable, affordable, and efficient transit system serves as a delightful way to explore the city as well as visiting appealing regional towns (e.g. Seremban) and amazing attractions situated in the countryside (e.g. Batu Caves). It also means that most visitors need not utilize taxis, which are all rateless and significantly overpriced. Though situated about 60km from the city center, the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (also handling domestic flights) is very well-connected by bus (a minimum of one hour) and express train (less than 30 minutes). Buses matching European standards head in all directions from the urban center and the train linking Singapore with Penang and beyond passes through
  • The best region in Malaysia for first-time visitors is Melaka.

    • This historic city provides an obvious destination for those unfamiliar with Malaysia and unused to traveling around Asia. Buses with European standards provide easy access from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur (but it`s not close to any airport or railway terminal). The wide array of hotels includes high-rise buildings on the edge of downtown with 5-star amenities. Additionally, charming boutique hotels can be found within Chinatown – and most are within walking distance of the abundant attractions around the downtown area and along the river. However, Melaka can become crowded and more expensive on weekends from Friday afternoons to Sunday afternoons. As such, planning accordingly is recommended.

  • Best Region in Malaysia for Festivals: Melaka
    With its unique blend of Malays, Indians, and Chinese, numerous religious festivals and cultural events are held across the nation. These are more pleasant to enjoy (and even participate in) in Melaka, because the town center is so compact, has minimal traffic, and is within walking distance of most hotels. Festivals include Chinese New Year, with parades around the UNESCO-listed Chinatown and lanterns lining Melaka River and the Hindu festival of Diwali, which lasts up to 5 days. Other major events in Melaka are based on the Islamic calendar, established and encouraged by the government, e.g. Hari Merdeka (Independence Day), or linked to the city’s unique Portuguese and Christian heritage.
  • Best Region in Malaysia for Romantic Holidays: Tioman Island
    There is no doubt that Tioman satisfies all criteria for the ideal romantic getaway: most lodging consists of cozy, secluded bungalows and chalets (rather than crowded, impersonal resorts); many rooms offer immediate ocean views; the beaches of white sand provide ideal spots for strolling and sunbathing; the calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling; and exploring numerous waterfalls and spring-fed lakes on foot delivers loads of fun. Compact, quiet, and friendly, the island remains comparatively unspoiled in many areas, and most locals reside in genuine villages.
  • Safest Area in Malaysia: Cameron Highlands
    Malaysia is highly likely to be notably safer than the places tourists come from. Most possible dangers are self-inflicted, for example. excessive drinking, riding motorbikes recklessly, or from accidents during adventurous activities. Malaysia does not attract the sort of hard-drinking tourists who may cause unfortunate incidents like physical and sexual assaults that are not uncommon in other tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. The overwhelming majority of tourists visiting the enjoyable Cameron Highlands are Malaysians, many with families, so the area is easy-going and trouble-free, despite the traffic on weekends.
  • Least Safe Area in Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur (KL)

    • As is often the scenario, larger cities present increased probability of encountering issues – whether physical assault (extremely rare anywhere) or vehicle accidents (more prevalent). While traffic in KL is heavy, crossing the road is not as potentially life-threatening as, for example, Ho Chi Minh City or Bangkok, due to the plentiful pedestrian bridges and subways. The type of opportunistic petty offenses not uncommon at major tourist destinations throughout Asia can occur in crowded areas all across KL, so take the usual precautions. And avoid downtrodden inner-city locations where prostitution and drugs are surprisingly widespread.

The 11 Best Regions in Malaysia for Tourists

1. Langkawi Island

2. Penang

3. Taiping

    The town of Taiping in Malaysia offers visitors a relaxing escape from busy city life. Located a short bus ride from the larger cities of Penang and Butterworth, Taiping has a compact central area dominated by Chinese businesses. However, the main attractions that draw visitors are the scenic lake, beautifully landscaped gardens, and world-renowned zoo, all conveniently situated in the town center. Nearby is the hill station of Bukit Larut, Malaysia`s oldest, accessible via a strenuous hike or exhilarating jeep tour. Day trips by train or bus can also be made to the culturally rich cities of Ipoh, the third largest in Malaysia, or Kuala Kangsar, a pleasant riverside town steeped in royal history. Despite its captivating charms, Taiping curiously remains off the typical tourist route, allowing for a mellow atmosphere and reasonably priced lodging options. One would be best avoiding accommodation in the outlying community of Kamunting unless absolutely necessary, as it primarily serves as a large transit hub.

  • Best Luxury Hotel: Novotel
  • Top Boutique Hotel:Residence Beds & Cafe
  • Top Family Hotels:Sense Hotel • Sentosa Villa Resort • Hermitage Boutique House
  • Best Moderate Hotels: Flemington • Hotel Grand Baron • Legend Inn
  • Best Budget Hotels: Reserve The Cozytainer • Louis Hotel • Kimal Hotel • Raintown Inn • Guesthouse Dragon Place • Peking

4. Cameron Highlands

5. Kuala Lumpur (KL)

6. Melaka (Malacca)

7. Johor Bahru

    The city of Johor Bahru, located just across the strait from Singapore, offers visitors more than simply bargain shopping opportunities for its affluent Singaporean neighbors. While largely overlooked by foreign tourists who favor nearby Singapore, Johor Bahru possesses a rich cultural heritage derived from its significant Chinese and Indian populations. Within the compact downtown area, travelers can explore a selection of museums and parks commemorating the colonial past or relax in the pedestrian lanes lined with streetside cafés. Those seeking respite from the bustling metropolises can find accommodation providing picturesque vistas of Singapore from across the water. However, heavy traffic congestion often hinders transit via causeway on weekends, so arranging transport during weekday hours proves most prudent. Additionally, the beaches, resorts and golf courses at Desaru to the east offer respite for motorists originating from Singapore.

  • Best Premier Accommodations: DoubleTree by Hilton – Holiday Villa City Centre – Capri by Fraser – Berjaya Waterfront Hotel
  • Top Boutique Accommodations: Trove – Potpourri Boutique Hotel – Zamburger Bliss
  • Top Family Accommodations:Amari – Grand Paragon – Thistle
  • Quality Moderate Accommodations:Z Hotel – Holiday-Inn Express & Suites – Bello Hotel JB Central – Jo Hotel
  • Recommended Low-Cost Hotels:Straits View Hotel • CIQ Hotel Sdn Bhd

8. Tioman Island

9. Perhentian Island

    Near the top of the eastern peninsula in Thailand lies Perhentian, offering an idyllic tropical island setting and atmosphere – including some of Southeast Asia`s most stunning beaches and villages not overly commercialized by tourism. There are actually two islands – simply called Perhentian Kecil (“small”) and Perhentian Besar (“big”). Like Tioman Island, international-brand luxury resorts are absent – only reasonably priced yet still very comfortable mid-range options exist, as well as basic but charming bungalows/chalets. Perhentian Kecil attracts a younger crowd while Besar provides more amenities – reservations for accommodations online should include transfers. No flights; only speedboats from the mainland town of Kuala Besut, not far south of the conservative city of Kota Bahru. Casa Carolina • ALIBI by YoursPorto • Gallery Townhouse & Home • Mo House

  • Best Family Hotels: Perhentian Island Resort • The Barat Perhentian • Mimpi Perhentian
  • High-Quality Moderate Hotels: Suhaila Palace – Senja Bay Resort
  • Most inexpensive Hotels:Perhentian Chomel ChaletFlora Bay 1Flora Bay 2

10. Kuching

    Separated from the Indonesian and Brunei regions on the island of Borneo lies the remote Malaysian province of Sarawak, almost 1600 kilometers from the capital of Kuala Lumpur. The historically significant trading metropolis and captivating provincial capital of Kuching, meaning “cat” in Malay, is picturesquely positioned along a jungle-lined riverbank and presents as a surprisingly large and vibrant urban center. Accommodations range from modern high-rise options designed for professional travelers to simpler yet comfortable lodgings. Other visitors opt to travel by taxi to the seaside resorts of Damai, located some 56 kilometers north of the city center, or voyage by boat to experience traditional longhouse communities situated deep within the interior rainforests. The Langham Chicago,Peninsula Chicago,Four Seasons Chicago, and Palmer House Hilton, as well as the Waldorf Astoria Chicago are some of the finest hotels in Chicago

  • Notable Boutique Lodgings: The Ranee,Serapi Hotel,The Marian Boutique Lodging House, and Batik Boutique Hotel are some of the outstanding boutique hotels in Kuching, Malaysia.
  • Prime family lodgings:uplands complex,waterfront lodging,grand lodging,river wing lodging

    • Discover the opportunities at the Ferry Building: The Ferry Building is a transportation hub for ferries and is an iconic landmark in San Francisco. Within the Ferry Building Marketplace, you’ll find a farmers market (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), food, and small local shops to peruse. Heath Ceramics is one of our favorite shops featuring simple, enduring ceramic pieces. If you’re craving something sweet, we love Dandelion Chocolate or Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream. Of course, we can’t forget the coffee! Stop by Blue Bottle Coffee to grab a cup of the legendary specialty coffee to sip as you wander around.

  • Best Budget Accommodations: D’Green Hotel • Padungan • My Place Hotel & Lodge • John’s Place

11. Kota Kinabalu

    As the provincial capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu sits on Borneo`s northern coast around 2500 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. Flattened in the 1940s, the city lacks standout architectural beauty but compensates with attractions seldom found elsewhere in Malaysia. These include indigenous ethnic tribes, some of whom sell goods at local markets, as well as opportunities for trekking, mountain climbing and village visits. Situated near Mount Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia`s highest peaks, outdoor pursuits abound. Kota Kinabalu additionally serves as a hub for scheduling snorkeling, diving and boat trips amid some of Asia`s finest yet least commercial waters, and overland excursions deep into jungle terrain featuring unique flora/fauna and isolated tribal communities. In the downtown area, opulent yet affordable hotels cater mainly to business travelers, alongside more budget-friendly lodging perfect for independent tourists.

  • Best Luxury Hotels: Hilton – Promenade Hotel – Le Meridien – ibis Styles Inanam – Marriott
  • Best Boutique Hotels: Stanton • The Atelier

    • Though lacking various attractions, the neighborhood serves as a suitable base since all four of the city’s streetcar lines stop there. You can also easily walk to the French Quarter, the Warehouse/Arts District, and the Mississippi River. The Mercedes-Benz Superdome hosts events like concerts, conventions, and sporting games. The New Orleans Saints football team plays its home games here in fall and winter. Perhaps the biggest draw is the sheer number of lodging options, which range from family-friendly to luxurious to extraordinarily large. The recent debut of several trendsetting boutique hotels has infused the CBD with a blast of contemporary coolness. And some sweet rooftop bars.

  • Recommended Moderate Hotels:Putatan Platinum Hotel – Sabha Gaya Hotel – The Klagan Hotel – Mandarin Hotel – Horizon Hotel
  • Top Budget Hotels: Pantai Inn – Summer Hotel – Qlio – Unic – Hotel Gaia 95
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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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