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Malaysia is known as a ‘miniature Asia’ due to the diversity of ethnic groups and cultures converging here. In addition to these highlights, this land is also famous for its rich natural landscapes and many unique and different dishes.
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Malaysia is a hidden gem for travelers to explore (Source: Britannica)
It may seem like a small country at first glance. But the truth is that there are a handful of interesting places in Malaysia. 10 to 15 days is the ideal length of time to plan a trip to Malaysia. With this number of days, it will be possible to include 2 to 3 days in the main cities and a visit to one of Malaysia’s islands.
Your journey will start at Malacca, the 'unofficial capital' of Malaysia, and the bridge between East and West for over 500 years. Today, this ancient city still retains many heritage buildings, ancient landmarks, and colonial architecture. Tourists to Malacca can still see the British, Dutch, and Portuguese traces left in the forts, museums, churches, and towers. UNESCO also recognized Malacca as a World Cultural Heritage in 2008.
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Malacca still remains the British, Dutch, and Portuguese traces (Source: TNK Travel)
To get to know Malacca, don’t skip A Famosa - a Portuguese Fortress in the heart of Malacca’s old town, Malacca Catholic Church - a historic landmark built by the Dutch after they captured Malacca from the Portuguese, and Dutch Square Malaysia (Stadthuys) - the oldest Dutch-style building in Asia. Besides, taking a boat trip on the river that crosses the city is a must when visiting Malacca. This river cruise is quite a unique opportunity to behold this land from another perspective and admire the street art.
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Taking a boat trip on Malacca River is an ideal way to admire the city (Source: KKday)
If you visit the city at night from Friday to Sunday, you can’t miss the night market on Jonker Street. Jonker Street, or Jonker Walk, is one of the busiest streets in Malacca. It has many unique stalls with rich cuisine: grilled meat skewers, bak chang (sticky rice stuffed with meat and wrapped in bamboo leaves), dim sum, and popiah (fresh spring rolls), along with many impressive live music performances. Along the street, there are also bars with tables and chairs spilling out onto the walkways.
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Jonker Street (Source: Food Wine Travel)
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On the next day, travel northwest to Kuala Lumpur, which is the most vibrant city in Malaysia and one of the liveliest cities in Southeast Asia. Here you’ll find an endless scenery of skyscrapers and street art.
On your first day in Malaysia’s capital, visit one of the main markets, Petaling Street Market, where you’ll find a bit of everything. From the market, it’s a short hop to one of the city’s most important temples – Sri Mahamariamman. It is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur, with a meticulously carved shrine with hand-painted motifs. Also not to be missed is Merdeka Square – a symbol of the country’s regaining of independence in 1957.
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Sri Mahamariamman Temple (Source: St. Giles Hotels)
And then, to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, take a stroll through the Perdana Botanical Gardens. This park has an extremely large area, up to 91.6 hectares, with many different areas for visitors to visit such as deer garden, orchid garden, butterfly garden, etc. Finally, after the sun goes down, you can relax a bit and watch the KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show.
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KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show with impressive light effects in Kuala Lumpur (Source: Suria KLCC)
On the second day, start with the famous Batu Caves – a Hindu temple located on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. Next, pay a visit to Petronas Twin Towers – Kuala Lumpur’s landmark. They were once the tallest building in the world. Although they have lost that title, the towers are still a symbol of the city and the country.
On the third day in Kuala Lumpur, visit the most beautiful Chinese temple in the city – Thean Hou Temple. It is the largest worshipping structure of the Goddess Thien Hau or Mazu in Southeast Asia. You will admire the architectural style that blends Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, along with modernity. After that, we suggest going for a walk on rope bridges surrounded by green landscapes in the KL Forest Eco Park to enjoy the fresh air in the middle of this busy city.
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Rope bridges hanging above the lush garden in KL Forest Eco Park (Source: Du lich Singapore)
Up to the north, the Cameron Highlands is an excellent destination for nature lovers. This is where many Malaysians spend their weekends and even school vacations. Known as one of the coolest areas in the country, during the coldest months, the temperature can reach 20-25°C.
The main attraction to explore here is the tea plantations. Most of them are still operated by English families. In fact, the tea plantations began when Malaysia was still a colony of the United Kingdom. You can explore the grounds and enjoy the coffee with panoramic views over the whole place.
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The highlight of Cameron Highlands is its huge tea plantations (Source: Tripadvisor)
There are also some trails in Cameron Highlands that you can try out. This is undoubtedly one of the best ways to explore the tea plantations away from the crowds. Other activities available in Cameron Highlands include the Strawberry farm, Butterfly & Insect farm, Lavender Gardens, Cactus Valley, etc.
Butterfly & Insect Farm (Source: Cameron Highlands)
Keep heading north to spend two days in Penang, an island connected to the mainland of Malaysia by more than one bridge.
Start your first day in George Town by visiting the Clan Jetties – a floating village where several Chinese clans live. Visitors can stroll along wooden walkways to explore the stilt houses and admire the serene waterfront views, especially at sunset. Don't miss the local delicacies, like Penang Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and freshly made Nyonya Kuih, sold at food stalls along the way. The jetties provide a charming blend of culture, history, and culinary delights, making them an unforgettable experience.
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Clan Jetties in George Town, Penang (Source: Time Out)
Right next to the Clan Jetties, you’ll find some of Penang’s most famous pieces of street art. Some might even say that certain iconic murals have gained so much recognition that they are on par with other Penang cultural landmarks. These works depict whimsical scenes of daily life impressively, making them hot check-in spots.
Impressive murals (Source: The Next Somewhere)
On the next day, visit the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, also known as the Blue Mansion because of its color. This house was built in the 19th century. With an eye for detail and excellence, Cheong Fatt Tze was determined to use only the best materials for his Mansion. That’s how came about one of the most lavish and elaborate constructions of his time. As the building is now a boutique hotel, you should book your visit in advance to ensure a place on one of the guided tours.
The Blue Mansion (Source: South China Morning Post)
In the afternoon, go to the top of the vertiginous Komtar Tower, from where you have one of the best views of Penang. If you need to recharge your energy, visit Lebuh Chulia. This is a famous culinary street in George Town, Penang. You can find a variety of hotels, bookstores, cafes, and other necessary facilities here. Cannot miss local dishes sold by pushcarts such as Asam Laksa, Popiah, Char Kway Teow, and Chee Cheong Fun.
To round off this 10-day itinerary, visit the heavenly island of Langkawi to get in touch with a different side of Malaysia. You can take a flight (around 20 minutes travel) from Penang to Langkawi. This is the perfect place to rest after 8 days spent in cities.
Langkawi is an archipelago of almost 100 islands. Its highlights are long sandy beaches and warm water. Tourists can visit Pantai Cenang - a tropical heaven in Langkawi. This beautiful beach has white sand, blue water, and trees for shade. The beach offers a myriad of activities, from tranquil moments on a lounge chair to exhilarating adventures like boat rides, jet-skiing, and parasailing.
Langkawi island (Source: Asian Wanderlust)
Another must-visit place is the Oriental Village and a ride on the world’s steepest cable car. At the top of the ride, you’ll find the Langkawi Sky Bridge – a glass bridge with unforgettable views over Langkawi. Otherwise, tourists can take an island hopping boat trip, which usually includes a stop at the famous Pulau Dayang Bunting, but also at the island of Beras Basah. The protected area of Kilim Geoforest Park is also quite popular. This is another excellent option for observing wildlife, especially the mangrove forest.
Kilim Geoforest Park (Source: Paradise 101)
A 10-Day Malaysia Tour is ideal for exploring this country’s popular places as well as its hidden gems. Whether you’re exploring historic buildings, cruising along the Malacca, or relaxing on remote islands, this itinerary ensures you’ll experience the best of Malaysia’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Prepare for a once in a lifetime experience with Asia King Travel today!
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