Classic One Week Malaysia Itinerary

Here’s a recommended one-week travel itinerary for exploring Malaysia, which includes visits to Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Penang.

Why Travel To Malaysia

• Modern city architecture
• Interesting colonial history and architecture
• Stunning beaches
• Incredible wildlife
• Diverse culture
• Delicious and diverse cuisine
• Friendly locals
• Budget friendly destination
• Well-developed infrastructure

Malaysia Itinerary Map

A:Kuala-Lumpur  B:Melaka  C:Penang

Malaysia Travel Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Kuala Lumpur (KL)
• Day 2: Explore KL
  
• Day 3: Explore KL
  
• Day 4: Travel To Melaka, Explore Melaka
• Day 5: Travel to Penang
• Day 6: Explore Penang
• Day 7: Explore Penang
• Day 8: Depart

If you have more time then also visit Langkawi to enjoy the beaches or visit Cameron Highlands to enjoy little cooler temperatures.

Best Time To Visit Malaysia

The best time to visit the west coast of Malaysia is between the dry season months of December and February.

Malaysia Top Experiences

• Spectacular KL Bird Park
• Magnificent Batu Caves
• Charming and historic city of Melaka
• Massive Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple in Penang
• Diverse and delicious Malaysian cuisine

Day 1: Arrive In Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur (colloquially referred to as KL) is the capital city of Malaysia and is the largest city in Malaysia. If you're feeling energized after your arrival in KL, then take a leisurely stroll and discover the vibrant heart of KL city center. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the numerous eateries located in the heart of the city.

Best area to stay in Kuala Lumpur: Best location to book your stay in Kuala Lumpur is the Kuala Lumpur City Center (also known as KLCC).

Kolam Biru In Evening (Kuala Lumpur)

Day 2: Explore Kuala Lumpur

• Awaken in KL feeling rejuvenated after a peaceful night's sleep, and savor a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel. Kickstart your day with a captivating guided walking tour around Merdeka Square, immersing yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders that make this city truly unique. 

• After lunch visit KL Forest Eco Park which is one of the oldest permanent forest reserves in Malaysia. Make sure to experience the breathtaking 200 m canopy walk, offering you unparalleled aerial vistas.

• Next visit Chan See Shu Yuen Temple which is one of the largest and oldest surviving Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Then visit The Sri Mahamariamman Temple which is the oldest Hindu temple in KL. 

• In the evening visit KL Tower (aka Menara KL), which is communications tower that stands 421 m tall. From it's observation deck enjoy some spectacular views of the city. Later in the evening enjoy authentic Malaysian cuisine for dinner.

KL Forest Eco Park

Chan See Shu Yuen Temple (Kuala Lumpur)

Sri Mahamariamman Temple (Kuala Lumpur)

View From KL Tower

Day 3: Explore Kuala Lumpur

• Begin your day exploring the lovely KL Bird Park, and immerse yourself in the beauty of over 200 bird species residing within an enclosed aviary. Next visit nearby Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, which is the largest museum of Islamic arts in South East Asia. 

• In the afternoon visit the magnificent Batu Caves, which is an awe-inspiring limestone hill adorned with a mesmerizing collection of caves and cave temples. This extraordinary site stands as one of the most renowned Hindu shrines beyond the borders of India.

• Next go to the famous Central Market for some shopping. Experience the perfect ending to your day by indulging in a delightful dinner along the renowned food street, Jalan Alor.

KL Bird Park

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur)

Batu Caves

Batu Caves

Jalan Alor (Kuala Lumpur)

Day 4: Travel to Melaka, Explore Melaka

• Take early morning transport to the historic city of Melaka, which is about two hours journey via bus from KL and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Melaka is a charming city which has interesting trading history and multicultural heritage.

• After settling into your hotel visit The Baba Nyonya House Museum which showcases the local history of ethnic Chinese-Malays called Baba-Nyonya in Melaka. 

• Next visit Villa Sentosa which is traditional Malay house. It is now a living-history private museum depicting life in a wealthy early-20th-century home. 

• Don't miss the sunset at the lovely Melaka Straits Mosque located on the man-made Melaka Island. End your day with dinner at one of the nice restaurants on the Jonker Street. If your visit falls over the weekend then don't miss the night market on Jonker Street.

The Baba Nyonya House Museum (Melaka)

Villa Sentosa (Melaka)

Melaka Straits Mosque

Melaka River

Day 5: Travel to Penang

If you've sometime in morning before your transport to Penang, then explore more of Melaka. Take transport to Penang. You may have to travel back to KL, for your transport to Penang. 

George Town which is the capital city of the Malaysian state of Penang is the best place to stay to explore Penang. Settle down in your hotel. If you're not too tired after you arrive, then walk around and explore George Town. In evening enjoy nice dinner at city's one of many restaurants or enjoy delicious street foods. George Town is renowned for its diverse street food.

Goddess of Mercy Temple (Penang)

Day 6: Explore Penang

• Begin your day with a delightful visit to Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a captivating museum that pays homage to Penang's rich Peranakan culture. This magnificent mansion was once the home and workplace of a prominent Chinese tycoon from the 19th century. Immerse yourself in the vibrant display of Peranakan artifacts, exquisite antiques, and fascinating collectibles that adorn the mansion. Marvel at the intricate Peranakan interior design and get a glimpse into the customs and traditions of this unique heritage.

• Next visit Khoo Kongsi which is a large Chinese clan-house with elaborate and highly ornamented architecture.

• After lunch visit The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, a remarkable architectural gem constructed by the esteemed merchant Cheong Fatt Tze in the late 1800s. This charming building stands out with its unique indigo-blue exterior walls and intricate external decorations, earning it the nickname "The Blue Mansion." Inside, you'll discover a grand total of 38 rooms, adorned with 220 vernacular timber louvre windows, 5 granite-paved courtyards and 7 elegant staircases. It served as Cheong's private residence as well as the seat of his business activities in Penang.

• In late afternoon visit Fort Cornwallis which is the largest standing fort in Malaysia. It was built by the British East India Company in the late 18th century. End your day again enjoying Penang's diverse and delicious cuisine.

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Khoo Kongsi (Penang)

The Blue Mansion (Penang)

The Blue Mansion (Penang)

Fort Cornwallis (Penang)

Day 7: Explore Penang

• Begin your day with a visit to Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and a significant site for Buddhist pilgrims. The standout attraction of this temple complex is the impressive seven-story Ten Thousand Buddhas Pagoda.

• After lunch visit Penang Hill via the funicular to enjoy some spectacular views of the city. This being your last day in Malaysia, spend your evening doing some shopping in Penang.

Kek Lok Si Temple (Penang)

Kek Lok Si Temple (Penang)

View From Penang Hill

Day 8: Depart from Penang

Depart from Penang to your destination.

What to Shop In Malaysia

Malaysia is known for Pewter (metal alloy) products, hand-woven fabric like Batik (silk), paintings, Durian chips/candy/etc., and Dodol (Malaysian toffee).

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this itinerary! Feel free to share your questions or suggestions in the comments section below.