If you’re heading to Kuala Lumpur next, here’s what you should do in one week in Malaysia. This article features two of the best cities in Malaysia and will help you make the most of your time in Malaysia.
Traveling to Malaysia in a week is possible, but you might have to pick a shorter itinerary.
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Only if you have a well-planned trip and chalked out an itinerary, only then it is possible for one to maximize their vacation time.
That way, one will not only enjoy a great vacation witty any stress but can feel the rhythm of local life and get familiar with the Malaysian way of life, the food, the smells and the culture.
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The kind of itinerary you plan would rely on what you are looking for in your holiday. You might want to explore the historical sights and museums or enjoy the great outdoors or simply want to relax on the beaches, or go for snorkeling or scuba diving.
The best advice for those with one week in Malaysia would be to choose two locations and try not to overstress themselves.
You can spend one week traveling through Malaysia and see the two most popular cities; Kuala Lumpur and Penang as well as the smaller, quieter towns such as Melaka or Cameron Highlands.
There’s a lot to discover in this country, so you might want to plan your backpacking Malaysia itinerary. In this article, we will cover a one-week itinerary Malaysia, but I’d recommend at least two weeks.
You could easily pick any of the Melaka hotels to enjoy a comfortable stay and come back with great memories while relaxing in this quieter town.
One Week in Malaysia Itinerary | Kuala Lumpur & Penang
Note that if you have more time, I suggest you add some of these cities to your Malaysia backpacking itinerary: Langkawi, Cameron Highlands, Perhentian Islands, Ipoh. These places are going to make your backpacking Malaysia route more interesting!
Top Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is a big and busy city. There is a lot to do and see here, and it is easy to find food everywhere! Here are some things to do in KL.
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- Day 1 – Explore the markets, landmarks and street food after checking in. Head for Petaling Street in Chinatown for shopping and local delicacies. Explore other landmarks such as Independence Square and Lake Gardens.
- Day 2 – Head to the Hindu Temples that are easily accessible. It is a good idea to start early in the day as the trip will take about half a day. There are several caves to explore, and it is a must to cover the legs. Visit the Symphony Lake and Petronas Towers and enjoy the water and light show with music in the afternoon. Towards the evening, visit the Heli-Lounge, which is a rooftop bar and popular among the locals and the tourists.
- Day 3 – Visit the natural wonders on the third day in Kuala Lumpur and enjoy breathtakingly verdant views of Genting Highlands and Colmar Tropicale. These are a two-hour drive from the city center.
- Day 4– Keep the last day reserves for shopping and partying./ The Bukit Bintang and KLCC are noted for a comprehensive shopping scene. Towards the evening, head for trendy nightclubs, international resto-bars, and sophisticated whiskey bars.
You can drive to Penang as it is about four hours away by road. It will take about an hour by air to reach Penang from Kuala Lumpur. You can also take a bus or fly directly there.
Penang Itinerary for 3 Days
Penang is a must-visit, because of its rich historical sites, amazing relaxed and delicious food. There is a fascinating fusion of everything on the colorful tropical island. Here’s your Penang itinerary to help you make the most of your last days in Malaysia.
- Day 1 – Explore the rich heritage at Penang and rise a trishaw to visit Georgetown. Have a look at the stunning mosques and British colonial buildings. Visit the Pinang Peranakan Mansion to have a look at the old culture of Babas. Here you will find a diverse mix of English flooring, wood-carved Chinese panels, and ironwork from Scotland.
- Day 2 – Look for the city offerings beyond architecture and history. For example, you can look for quirky, disguised graffiti. Penang is entirely different when it comes to street food. So, keep your eyes peeled for Gurney Drive Hawker Centre or New Lane Hawker Centre where one can taste an endless selection of local delights. End the day by watching the sunset with the Penang Hill Railway.
- Day 3 – Discover the nature around Penang, and one can visit an Agricultural Village and countryside. One can cycle around or head for the pristine beaches to spend a lazy beach day. End your day with a visit to the Batu Ferringhi Night Market where one can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of great food.
