Malaysia offers a mix of modern cities, lush rainforest, tropical islands, and a blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous heritage, giving you rich culture and nature in one trip.
Discover Malaysia
Discover Malaysia
Why visit Malaysia?
What to expect
From the skyscrapers and shopping streets of Kuala Lumpur to Penang's historic streets and beaches, you can expect warm weather, welcoming hospitality, and a balance of urban energy and coastal calm.
Plan your trip
Use Kuala Lumpur as your main gateway, then connect onwards to Penang and other parts of Malaysia by air, rail, or road, making it easy to explore both mainland highlights and island escapes.
Top experiences in Malaysia
Admire Kuala Lumpur's skyline
Take in views of the city from landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers and stroll through nearby parks and shopping streets.
Wander George Town, Penang
Explore colourful shophouses, street art, and heritage mansions in this UNESCO-listed historic centre by foot or trishaw.
Escape to Malaysia's islands
Head to islands such as Langkawi or Perhentian for clear waters, soft sand, and relaxed coastal resorts.
Explore highland retreats
Visit hill stations like Cameron Highlands for cooler air, tea plantations, and forest trails through mossy landscapes.
Discover rainforests and wildlife
Join guided trips into national parks to experience dense rainforest, waterfalls, and the chance to spot tropical birdlife.
Experience Malaysia's festivals
Time your visit to coincide with major cultural festivals, when streets fill with decorations, music, and performances.
Cruise rivers and waterfronts
Take evening river or harbour cruises in key cities to see illuminated skylines and historic buildings from the water.
Experience Malaysia's way of life
Getting around
Use domestic flights to cover longer distances quickly, then rely on trains, light rail, and ride-hailing in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, with buses and taxis linking nearby towns and coastal areas.
Local life & culture
Experience Malaysia's multicultural character through its neighbourhoods, languages, architecture, and festivals, from urban street scenes in Kuala Lumpur to laid-back coastal communities in Penang and beyond.
Where to unwind
Unwind on palm-fringed beaches, at rainforest retreats, or in city parks and upscale spas, where you can slow down between days of sightseeing and shopping.
A taste of Malaysia
National dishes & specialties
Try favourites such as nasi lemak, satay, and laksa, with Penang and Kuala Lumpur especially known for their varied interpretations of classic Malaysian dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Dine at hawker stalls, casual eateries, and contemporary cafés where you can sample Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, and international flavours throughout the country.
Signature & scenic dining
Book a table at rooftop venues in Kuala Lumpur or waterfront restaurants in Penang for city views or sea breezes to go with your meal.
Retail therapy in Malaysia
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Shop at major complexes in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, where you will find international labels, local designers, cinemas, and lifestyle attractions under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Browse markets and smaller boutiques across Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and other regional towns for textiles, handicrafts, and locally made souvenirs.
Evening retail scene
Stroll through lively night-time shopping streets and markets in major cities, where stalls, boutiques, and street entertainment create an atmospheric after-dark experience.
Best time to visit Malaysia
Malaysia has a warm, tropical climate year-round, with regional variations between coasts and highlands. Peak season: December to February, when many travellers visit and west coast destinations are popular, with coastal temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). Shoulder season: March to May and September to early November, when you can expect hot conditions with intermittent rain, average temperatures of 26–32°C (79–90°F), and fewer crowds in some areas. Low season: mid-May to August in certain regions, when heavier showers and occasional storms occur, particularly on parts of the east coast, though temperatures generally remain around 25–31°C (77–88°F).