Malaysia is such an underrated and lesser-known destination despite being the Southern neighbor of an extremely popular country (Thailand). Malaysia is much cheaper and has plenty to offer. It’s a unique country with the main peninsular part and another portion on the huge island of Borneo.
I loved visiting both regions, and I loved that they are quite distinct. I really think Malaysia should be on more travelers’ list in Southeast Asia!
Malaysia is definitely among the best cheap countries to travel to. We’ll share a separate post with many examples of lodging prices for these Malaysian destinations soon.
Here are the 11 best destinations in Malaysia.
Map of the 11 best destinations in Malaysia
Malaysia is a small country that is roughly half the size of Alberta. Its population is approximately 35 million, slightly less than that of Canada.
Here’s a map to locate all the destinations in this post.
1. Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s capital and most populous metropolitan area (8 million inhabitants, about 33% more than Toronto), Kuala Lumpur is an incredible urban destination and probably one of the least expensive major cities in the world.
It really is a surprising capital, with urban attractions like the Petronas twin towers (formerly the world’s tallest) and an incredible Chinatown. But also attractions like the Batu caves and plenty of green spaces.
You can read 14 things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
2. Penang Island
Penang is an island in the northwest of Peninsular Malaysia, close to Thailand. With its historical heritage, natural beauty, and cuisine often considered one of the best in Malaysia, it’s a great destination.
George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful temples, and lively alleyways. You can visit Kek Lok Si, the country’s largest Buddhist temple, take the funicular railway and enjoy the beaches of the north of the island, such as Batu Ferringhi.
You can read 14 things to do on Penang Island.
3. Melaka (Malacca)
Melaka is the oldest port in the country. Its historic center is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a unique city, where Portuguese and Dutch colonial buildings blend with Chinese traditions and beautiful street art, all embellished by the Melaka River.
The amazing night market on Jonker Street is open from Friday to Sunday, if you’re there on the weekend. Melaka is also where you can take one of the most kitschy vehicles of your life. It’s a tradition for locals to decorate their bicycle cabs with cartoon characters (Flytrippers writer Charlotte took one that had Hello Kitty colors).
You can read her 10 things to do in Melaka (Malacca).
4. Gunung Mulu National Park
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, but a natural one this time! Gunung Mulu National Park is located on the island of Borneo, a true paradise for nature lovers. The park boasts one of the world’s longest cave systems, including one that has a known length of 227 kilometers.
Mulu isn’t the most affordable place to stay with cash. But I’m including it because it’s a unique destination and it’s one of Marriott’s best deals thanks to the luxury 5-star resort located in the middle of nature, directly in the national park!
5. Kuching
Kuching, also on Borneo island, is the largest city and capital of the state of Sarawak, the only one in the country with a Christian majority. So it’s quite distinct! It’s close to Gunung Gading National Park, where you can see the world’s biggest and stinkiest flower, and Semenggoh Nature Reserve, where you can observe orangutans up close.
The city is a destination of choice for both foodie travelers and cat lovers. The little felines are adored in Kuching, and it shows in everyday life. There are cat statues everywhere, themed cafés, a cat museum, and even an annual cat festival!
6. Langkawi
Just a few kilometers off the Malaysia/Thailand border lies a paradisiacal archipelago called the “Jewel”. It has 99 tropical islands, most of them uninhabited. Langkawi is the largest island and is a UNESCO World Geopark.
Langkawi’s spectacular scenery and status as a duty-free shopping destination are attracting more and more travelers. Yet the atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful! This island is rather upscale. The cheapest Marriott hotel is quite expensive, but it is on the sea.
7. Desaru
Staying with the seaside paradise theme, there’s also Desaru Bay in the south of the peninsular part of Malaysia. This is a booming area designed for travelers.
There are plenty of activities such as sailing, jet-skiing, golf, fishing and, of course, relaxing by the sea. It’s also just 1h30m from Singapore, one of South-East Asia’s coolest cities (but by far the most expensive too).
8. Miri
Miri is on the coast, on the island of Borneo. It’s your gateway if you want to venture into the superb national parks, including the aforementioned Gunung Mulu National Park, Niah National Park, Lambir Hills National Park, and Loagan Bunut National Park.
Unfortunately, like many nature destinations, there are no hostels. On the plus side, Miri is also close to the border with Brunei Darussalam, one of the world’s least-known countries. If you like to get off the beaten track, I recommend you make the trip. I really enjoyed discovering that unique little nation.
9. Cameron Highlands
Located in the northwestern part of the peninsula, the Cameron Highlands are at an altitude of around 1,500 meters, so they benefit from a cooler climate than the rest of the country! It’s a popular place to visit, with its large tea plantations and lush green countryside.
Among the attractions, you’ll find the BOH Tea garden, the beautiful Cameron Flora Park, perfect for a picnic amid pink flowers, and the lavender garden. But that’s not all! Don’t forget to visit the Cactus Valley, Mossy Forest, Butterfly Farm, and Strawberry Farms. There’s lots to do in the area.
10. Putrajaya
Very close to Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya is the country’s administrative capital. Here you’ll find the Parliament and several institutions. Solo travelers who want to visit should do so on a daytrip from KL, because as a less touristy city, there’s only one hostel and it’s very poorly rated.
The best way to see this city is to take a boat cruise on Lake Putrajaya. From the water, you’ll be able to admire monuments such as the Putra Mosque (also sublime inside), and the Seri Wawasan Bridge. Alternatively, you can visit the Botanical Gardens, or try flyboarding on the water for a real thrill!
11. Bintulu
Finally, still in the state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo, Bintulu is a coastal town very much off the beaten track, and I include more for those traveling longer (and who don’t want a hostel, as there is none).
The nearby sublime Similajau National Park offers sandy beaches and several hiking trails. You can also swim at Tanjung Batu beach before visiting the old town and the Chinese temple Bintulu Tua Pek Kong. Here again, you have the opportunity to feast on local street food.
