Four places, four different Malaysias

Every region tells a different story. Here's where we've spent the most time — and why.

Where to go

Pick your Malaysia

From city streets to rainforest canopies — four destinations that cover the full range of what this country is.

Kuala Lumpur

Skyscrapers next to shophouses, and some of the best night markets in the country.

Penang

Heritage streets, street art and arguably the best hawker food on the peninsula.

Langkawi

Duty-free beaches, cable cars over the rainforest, and slow, easy days.

Sabah

Rainforest canopies, Mount Kinabalu, and wildlife you won't find anywhere on the peninsula.

Side by Side

Two of Malaysia's most-visited cities, and two very different paces.

Kuala Lumpur

Vibe Fast, urban, cosmopolitan

Best for Shopping, nightlife, business, transit hub

Food scene Every cuisine in Asia, plus great Malay hawker food

Getting around MRT, LRT, monorail — easy without a car

How long 2–4 days covers the highlights

Budget hotel from ~$27/night

Penang

Vibe Slow, heritage, food-obsessed

Best for Eating, street art, colonial architecture, culture

Food scene Best hawker food in Malaysia — char kway teow, asam laksa, cendol

Getting around George Town is walkable; Grab for everywhere else

How long 3–5 days — most people wish they'd stayed longer

Budget hotel from ~$20/night

Plan your trip

Our travel guides break each destination down by neighbourhood, budget and season.