Malaysia Travel Guide: from beaches to Borneo

Malaysia holds a special place in my travel memories, as 15 years ago I visited this diverse country on an unforgettable trip that combined the vibrant energy of Kuala Lumpur with the relaxed island vibes of Langkawi, about which I will tell you more in this Malaysia travel guide, including many tips and pictures to inspire your next holiday!

In the capital I marveled at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers dominating the skyline, wandered the vibrant Chinatown streets, and climbed the colorful steps to Batu Caves.

Then, flying to Langkawi, I unwound on pristine beaches, rode the cable car to the Sky Bridge for epic panoramic views, and explored mangrove tours in the Kilim Geoforest. The contrast between urban buzz and tropical serenity was so nice. And the food? Nasi lemak, roti canai, fresh seafood, all local and delicious.

Fast-forward to February 2026, and Malaysia tourism is booming with over 300 events nationwide, festive airport welcomes and a focus on authentic, sustainable experiences. Malaysia is targeting potentially 43+ million visitors this year, thanks to visa perks, better connectivity, and emphasis on eco-friendly travel.

Malaysia remains one of Asia's nicest countries to visit, with a great mix of modernity, nature, and culture.

Malaysia Travel Guide

In this blog I will tell you everything you need to know to navigate Malaysia like a pro.

Getting to Malaysia

Naturally, the easiest way to get to Malaysia is by plane! From the US bigger airlines, like Emirates, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways offer flights to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, with layovers typically in major Asian hubs like Singapore or Hong Kong.

From there, people take connecting flights to popular destinations like Penang or over to the island of Borneo or Langkawi.

Also from Europe many airlines like KLM and Malaysia Airlines fly directly to Kuala Lumpur from Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam in about 12,5 - 13 hours.

Visas & paperwork

Good news for EU, UK, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and US citizens, as they get a free 90-day pass to paradise. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.

And there's this new thing called MDAC registration you need to do online before you arrive. It's quick, easy and painless😊

Currency in Malaysia

The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller towns or markets. ATMs are readily available, and you can exchange currency at airports and banks.

1 Euro gets you 4.59 Ringgit at the moment and 1 USD around 4.4 MYR, but what does that really mean? According to the Big Mac Scale, you would pay around $2.87 for one instead of $5.69 in the States so you will get excellent value for money!

Safety

Malaysia is a safe bet for travelers with a peace index of over 1.5 (that’s quite high). Just keep an eye on your belongings, avoid flashing expensive jewelry and be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. So always use common sense, like you would anywhere else, although Malaysia is generally very peaceful.

What’s the weather like?

Malaysia's got that tropical vibe going on year-round, but be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially during the monsoon season (November to February). The good news is, it's warm rain, so you won't freeze your buns off! For the most part, the weather in Malaysia is hot, sticky, a true tropical paradise and perfect for endless beach days.

So, what's the big deal with Malaysia?

Okay, so you know the basics, but what exactly makes Malaysia stand out from the crowd?

Malaysia is unique mix of cultures, where Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous traditions blend like nowhere else. Think: bustling night markets filled with exotic aromas, impressive Chinese temples and mosques in the cities, colorful Hindu temples adorned with intricate carvings in the mountains, and traditional wooden houses on stilts in remote villages.

5 things that make Malaysia stand out in Asia

1. Diverse cities, cultures & heritage

Malaysia is a true melting pot, this shines in festivals, architecture (mosques, temples, colonial buildings), and daily life, creating a welcoming harmony that's unique in Asia.

• Kuala Lumpur: Sure, the Petronas Twin Towers are a must-see, but don't stop there. Get lost in the vibrant chaos of Petaling Street Market, sample street food at Jalan Alor, visit a wet market, explore China Town, Little India and soak up the history at Merdeka and Independance Square. Don't forget to visit some temples and snap a selfie with the colorful murals in Bukit Bintang too!

• Penang: George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living museum of street art and colonial architecture. And for foodies Penang's hawker centers serve up some of the most mouthwatering dishes in Southeast Asia.

• Melaka: Step back in time in this historic city, once a major trading port. Explore the Dutch Square, wander through Jonker Street Night Market, and take a river cruise for a unique perspective.

• Ipoh: This charming city is known for its colonial architecture, cave temples, and its delicious white coffee.

• Kota Kinabalu: The gateway to Borneo's natural wonders, KK (as the locals call it) is a vibrant city with a laid-back vibe. Hike up to the Signal Hill Observatory for panoramic views, visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village to learn about indigenous traditions, and indulge in fresh seafood at the waterfront.

2. World-class cuisine & foodie paradise

From wet markets and street hawker stalls to fine dining, with fresh fruit and organic local ingredients. Dishes like char kway teow, laksa and satay reflect multicultural roots.

Especially Penang is known as one of the world's best food destinations, perfect for travelers that appreciate authentic flavors.

3. Stunning natural landscapes

Ancient rainforests like Taman Negara (over 130 million years old), diverse wildlife (orangutans in Borneo), and everything from diving to hiking. Sustainable tourism in Malaysia has grown a lot with eco-lodges, low-impact adventures, and certified operators protect biodiversity.

• Taman Negara: The oldest rainforest in the world, Taman Negara is the place for wildlife enthusiasts. Trek through the jungle canopy, go white-water rafting, and keep your eyes open to spot tigers, elephants and hornbills.

• Kinabalu Park: Home to Mount Kinabalu, this park offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views. Even if you're not up for the summit climb, there are plenty of trails to explore and waterfalls to admire.

• Bako National Park: This coastal park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Spot proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs, and huge monitor lizards as you hike through mangrove forests and along secluded beaches.
  

• Gunung Mulu National Park: Prepare to be awestruck by the world's largest cave chamber, the Sarawak Chamber. This park also has stunning pinnacles, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

• Danum Valley Conservation Area: This pristine rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Go on a guided night walk to spot nocturnal creatures and soak up the sounds of the jungle.

4. Beautiful beaches & islands

Langkawi, Perhentian and Tioman offer crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and relaxed vibes, ideal for beach lovers avoiding crowds.

• Langkawi: This archipelago boasts stunning beaches, duty-free shopping, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Take a cable car up to the Sky Bridge for panoramic views, or go island-hopping to explore hidden coves and waterfalls.

• Perhentian Islands: These laid-back islands are perfect if you're in need of a tranquil escape. Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters, kayak around the islands, or simply chill on the beach with a good book.

• Redang Island: This marine park is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Swim alongside colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks (the friendly kind:))

• Tioman Island: This jungle-clad island offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Hike through the rainforest, go diving or snorkeling, or simply unwind on one of the many secluded beaches.

5. Friendly people & affordability

Malaysians' warmth and hospitality shine, plus excellent value on food, transport, and stays make it budget-friendly yet high-quality.

Super diverse Asian destination

Malaysia offers something for everyone, with many different areas and vibes.

To make it easier for you let me break it down into 3 main regions to choose from for your next trip:

• Peninsular Malaysia: This is where you'll find the capital, Kuala Lumpur, a modern metropolis with iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers. But venture beyond the city, and you'll discover historic towns like Melaka, charming hill stations like the Cameron Highlands, and idyllic islands like Langkawi and Penang.

• Malaysian Borneo: This is where the wild things are. Think dense rainforests with orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. You can trek through the jungle, explore vast cave systems, and even climb Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia.

• East Malaysia: This region is home to the states of Sabah and Sarawak, known for their diverse indigenous cultures, insane natural beauty, and laid-back vibe. Don't miss the chance to visit a traditional longhouse, go diving in Sipadan, or witness the unique wildlife of the Kinabatangan River.

Ultimate Malaysia itinerary

If you are planning to go to Malaysia for a 10-14 day trip I would recommend the following itinerary.

A combination of our Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi trip, extended with some more adventure and a few destinations that are easy to reach with efficient flights, inland buses, and ferries:

Day 1-4 Kuala Lumpur: City sights, Batu Caves, food tours, day trip to Putrajaya or Melaka.

Day 5-7 Cameron Highlands: cool nature escape with BOH tea plantation views, Mossy forest hikes, strawberry picking, and exploring the city of Tanah Rata.

Day 8-11 Penang: George Town's UNESCO street art, heritage, and hawker food heaven.

Day 12-14 Langkawi: Beaches, island-hopping and nature, to wind down and fly back relaxed.

This route mixes urban vibes, highland serenity, culture and beach bliss without rushing, thanks to great infrastructure. 

Malaysia's a country with endless opportunities for adventure. It's a place where you can experience the best of both worlds, from cosmopolitan cities filled with culture, to serene natural wonders.

As you have now seen and read in this blog Malaysia is a very diverse destination, that's also friendly & easy to explore. Perfect to combine cities with lush tropical parks and pristine islands.

Too much to choose from for just one trip, so let this Malaysia travel guide help you decide where to go and what to visit for your own holiday to Malaysia, or find even more inspiration on my Asia page.