Visiting Kuala Lumpur is an incredible experience that offers a blend of tradition and modernity. As the vibrant capital of Malaysia, this bustling metropolis offers cultural wonders and architectural marvels. The iconic Petronas Twin Towers, the bustling markets and temples scattered throughout the city will enchant you. Visiting Kuala Lumpur promises an unforgettable adventure for all who are fortunate enough to visit.
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How to get to Kuala Lumpur
You can easily get to Kuala Lumpur by flight from every destination in Asia. Check the cheapest flights at Skyscanner. If you are already in Malaysia, you can also reach Kuala Lumpur by train or a bus from other tourist destinations around the country. We highly recommend using 12go.asia for booking your tickets online.
How to get to city from airport
There are multiple way how to reach the city center from the airport. The easiest and fastest one is KLIA express train. It only take 30 minutes and costs 55MYR one way (11€). Train departs every 30 minutes. You can check the timetables at their official website.
You can also opt for a longer but cheaper journey with a Skybus. It takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to KL Sentral and costs 11MYR (2.5€). The bus departs every hour on both ends. Check the schedule on their official website.
The last option is a private transfer or a taxi. This is suitable if you have lot of luggage, kids or if you’re a bigger gourp. It might cost you between 20-50€. Expect the journey to take around 1 hour. We recommend reserving your taxi online. This way you will avoid scammers.
Best time to visit Kuala Lumpur
The best time to visit Kuala Lumpur is generally during the dry season, which falls between May and August, and December to February. During these months, the weather is relatively more pleasant, with lower humidity and less rainfall. The monsoon season lasts from March to April and from September to November.
Keep in mind that Kuala Lumpur is a popular tourist destination, so consider factors like school holidays and major festivals when planning your trip. These periods might attract larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices. Ultimately, your preference for weather, events, and activities will play a significant role in determining the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur.
I would personally recommend planning your trip during Eid Al Fitr (Islamic New Year) in March or April, Chinese New year in February or Thaipusam festival in January/February.
How to get around
Kuala Lumpur has an extensive network of public transport. For easy orientation we recommend using their subway lines known as KTM. The tickets are really cheap, between 0.5€-1€. There is also public bus network. It’s a bit harder to find bus routes and schedules online. Alternatively you can always get yourself Grab.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
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1. Batu caves
Price: free
Opening hours: 07:00 – 21:00
Visiting Batu Caves is a fascinating journey into Malaysia’s culture and spirituality. These ancient limestone caves, located near Kuala Lumpur, impress with a giant golden statue of Lord Murugan at the entrance. Climbing the rainbow stairs, you’ll discover intricate Hindu shrines and colorful paintings inside the caves. The main temple cave offers breathtaking views. Besides the religious aspect, you can also enjoy the stunning limestone formations and playful monkeys around the area. A visit to Batu Caves is a memorable experience of culture and nature combined.
TIP: For the best light come early in the morning before 10am. The sun is still hidden behind the limestone cliffs. The other option is to come later in the afternoon when the light shines on the stairs.
We would highly recommend visiting this temple during Thaipusam festival. Read more about Thaipusam below.
TIP: Bring your own scarf. There are ladies checking dress code. If your clothes don’t cover knees (woman) they will ask you to buy a scarf. That would be okay. But if you use some of your own clothes to wrap yourself up they won’t allow it. Even if it covers your legs completely… Also, the scarf they sell are so short they don’t even cover your knees. It’s pure attempt to earn money from tourists.
There is no entrance fee to Batu caves. You can easily reach Batu caves by train departing from KL Sentral. The journey takes around 1 hour and costs less than 1€. If you want to come early in the morning to avoid the crowds you will need to organise a private transfer or Grab. The first train departs at 6:30. Alternatively you can book one of the tours below.
2. KLCC Park & Petronas Towers
Price: from 19€ adult, 10€ child for Observation deck and Skybridge
Opening hours: 09:00 – 21:00
Visiting the Petronas Towers is an absolute must for anyone traveling to Kuala Lumpur. As you approach these twin giants, their sheer height and striking modern design leave you in awe. The ticket to the observation deck takes you on a thrilling journey in a futuristic high-speed elevator to Level 86. From the observation deck, the breathtaking panoramic view of the city below is nothing short of mesmerizing, making it a photographer’s dream come true.
Another highlight of the visit is crossing the skybridge that connects the two towers on Level 41. Walking on this suspended bridge offers a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to see Kuala Lumpur from a whole new perspective.
KLCC Park and area is free to visit. On the lower levels there’s a shopping mall you can also enter. If you wish to visit Petronas towers observation deck or walk the Skybridge you need to get tickets. For any visit within 24 hours you should purchase your ticket at the ticket counter in Petronas Towers. Otherwise we highly suggest buying your tickets online in advance either on the official website or via Get Your Guide. Do not show up expecting to get inside. Tickets are often sold out.
TIP: The observation deck is closed on Mondays.
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3. Perdana botanical garden
Price: free
Opening hours: 07:00-20:00
Visiting Perdana Botanical Garden in Kuala Lumpur is a peaceful and refreshing escape from the city. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, you can enjoy a leisurely walk among diverse plants, colorful flowers, and peaceful lakes. Don’t miss the Orchid Garden and the butterfly park. There’s also a deer park. It’s a perfect place to relax and recharge amidst lush greenery and natural wonders. If you’re lucky you can even see otters swimming in the lake.
4. Bukit Bintang
Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood. It is renowned for its energetic atmosphere, shopping opportunities, and lively nightlife. As you walk along the bustling streets, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a myriad of shops, malls, and street vendors offering everything from trendy fashion to local handicrafts. The area comes alive at night, with its plethora of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for those seeking an exciting night out. Bukit Bintang is also a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants serving up delectable Malaysian cuisine and international fare.
5. National Mosque
Price: free
Opening hours: Fridays 15:00-18:00, Saturday – Thursday 09:30 – 12:30 and 15:00-18:00
Visiting the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur is a captivating cultural and spiritual experience. This iconic architectural masterpiece, also known as Masjid Negara, is a symbol of Malaysia’s Islamic heritage. As you approach the mosque, you’ll be struck by its striking modern design, featuring a grand main dome and a series of slender minarets. Once inside, the vast prayer hall impresses with its elegant Islamic motifs, ornate chandeliers, and beautiful stained glass windows. Non-Muslim visitors can explore the mosque during designated hours and are provided with traditional attire to show respect.
6. Masjid Jamek
Price: free
Opening hours: 08:00 – 12:30, 14:30 -16:30 except Fridays
Visiting Masjid Jamek in Kuala Lumpur is like stepping into the city’s history. As one of the oldest mosques, it showcases beautiful Moorish architecture with domes and minarets. The serene atmosphere and intricate Islamic designs inside create a peaceful experience. Located at the rivers’ confluence, the mosque offers a unique blend of historical charm amidst the bustling city.
7. Petaling Street
Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur is located in the heart of the city’s bustling Chinatown. This iconic street is a haven for shoppers and food enthusiasts alike. As you stroll along the lively market stalls, you’ll find anything from cheap souvenirs and clothing to traditional Chinese herbs and handicrafts. Haggling is a common practice here, adding to the thrill of finding great deals. At night, the street comes alive with colorful lights and an energetic ambiance.
When in the area I suggest visiting Guan Di temple, Sri Maha Mariamman temple and Central Market. Strolling around various streets in the area with a camera is also a good idea.
8. Merdeka 118
Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur is an impressive skyscraper, representing Malaysia’s progress and independence. With height of 679 meters it’s the second tallest building in the world. It offers various facilities, including luxury residences, offices, and a stunning observation deck with panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur. It was only opened in July 2023. The observation deck should already be accessible but I couldn’t find any information online yet.
9. KL Tower
Price: 8€ observation deck, 16€ Skydeck+Skybox
Opening hours: 9:00-10:00
Visiting KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur is an unforgettable experience that offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. As one of the most iconic landmarks in Malaysia, the tower stands majestically at 421 meters tall and provides a unique perspective of Kuala Lumpur’s bustling streets and impressive architecture. There are different types of tickets you can purchase.
You can visit observation deck at 276m. It offers 360 views of Kuala Lumpur from indoor and outdoor viewing area. Then you can visit Skydeck and Skybox at 421 meters. Apart from panoramic view it features a glass-bottom platform. Lastly there is a Tower walk 100 where you can walk around the building on a narrow platfrom using harness.
You can try to show up and get your tickets at the spot but I highly recommend purchasing them online in advance. It’s possible the tickets will sell out. We recommend using Klook for easy purchase and cheaper price. Also check prices on Get Your Guide.
10. Lot 10 Hutong
Price: food prices start from 3€, no entry fee
Opening hours: 10:00-22:00
Visiting Lot 10 Hutong in Kuala Lumpur is a delightful culinary adventure. Located within the Lot 10 shopping mall, Hutong is a food court like no other, featuring a curated selection of the country’s best hawker stalls, all under one roof. Each stall represents a culinary heritage, with recipes passed down through generations, preserving the authentic flavors that Malaysia is renowned for. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Hutong offers a taste of Malaysia’s finest dishes, from different regions and ethnic backgrounds. And the food is very affordable, too!
11. Thaipusam festival
Experiencing the Thaipusam Festival at Batu Caves is something you will never forget. Devotees gather to honor Lord Murugan, carrying colorful heavy kavadis and walking barefoot up the steep steps. Their journey actually starts in Chinatown at Sri Mariamman temple. They walk 13 km with the kavadis.
The sight of their devotion and the sounds of drums and music create a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere. Many Hindus choose to pierce their bodies with different objects as well. Nowadays it’s not as crazy as it used to be. But keep this in mind since it might not be suitable for everyone.
12. Rooftop infinity pools
Experiencing rooftop infinity pools in Kuala Lumpur is something no traveler should skip. The pools offer stunning views of the city’s skyline, giving you a sense of floating above the city. Whether day or night, it’s an enchanting and unforgettable experience that provides a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
For budget travelers I would recommend Penthouse on 34 – hostel with access to incredible infinity pool in Regalia suites. For those with higher budget we recommend choosing one of many hotels that have infinity pool. Our personal recommendation is Hotel Stripes. The pool offers incredible views not only at KL towers. They also have rooftop bar with tasty cocktails where you should stop by at night.
13. Helilounge bar
Price: 100 MYR (20€) includes 2 drinks
Opening hours: 05:00 – 11:30
A fantastic spot to watch a breathtaking sunset in Kuala Lumpur is this rooftop bar. It’s wise to make a reservation in advance for the best seating. The RM100 ticket fee includes two drinks; I suggest opting for beer or wine instead of cocktails. The staff is friendly and welcoming, providing a great atmosphere to end the night.
What makes this place unique is its lack of a roof or ledge obstructing the view, as it’s located on a small helipad on top of the roof. Despite the intimidating appearance of the ledge, it’s not as dangerous as it seems. Remember, the entrance to the bar is through the office building, so take the lift to level 34. They accept both credit card and cash payments.
13. City at night
Visiting Kuala Lumpur at night is magical. The city lights up with stunning views of the Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower. Night markets offer tasty street food and unique souvenirs, while the vibrant nightlife scene promises entertainment for everyone. It’s a captivating and charming experience that leaves lasting memories. Grab your camera and wander around.
Where to stay
Kuala Lumpur is a huge city and you should consider in which part you want to stay to have the best experience. There are four main areas which I would like to talk about.
- KLCC – perfect for first timers and families, calm area with many shops and restaurant
- Bukit Bintang – great for vibrant nightlife, pub scene, restaurants open 24/7 and shopping, very busy though
- Chinatown – perfect for budget travelers
- KL Sentral – very convenient to travel around city
Hotel Stripes
We highly recommend staying in a hotel that has rooftop views and infinity pool. It is an incredible experience watching the bustling city from up top while chilling in the pool. During our stay we were at Hotel Stripes. They have very comfortable rooms with a desk perfect for working. The view is also great.
But the best facility is amazing infinity pool with views of Petronas towers, KL tower and the skyline. In the evening hours when pool is closed you can (and you certainly should) enjoy a cocktail and a snack at the rooftop bar Man Tao. They also offer “We Chill You Grill” dinner which consists of huge plate full of different meals and croffles. The food is so tasty! You can use Booking.com form below to book your stay in KL.
