Best of Malaysia: Melaka to Penang - 7 Days

Highlights

• Explore British, Dutch, and Portuguese history in the city of Melaka
• See the highlights of Kuala Lumpur, including the Petronas Towers
• Visit tea plantations and strawberry farms in the lush green highlands
• Discover Penang island and the first British settlement in Southeast Asia

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Melaka, Explore

Welcome to Malaysia! Upon arrival in Kuala Lumpur, you'll transfer south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Melaka, located in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia. Once settled at your hotel, explore the city's blend of cultures from the British, Dutch, and Portuguese eras that left imprints from centuries ago. A good place to start is the Stadthuys, which was once the official residence of the Dutch Governor and is now converted into a museum showcasing historical artifacts.

Another famous attraction is the A'Famosa Fort, which the Portuguese built in the 16th century to protect their interests in the city. There's also St. Paul's Church, a historical monument that served as a burial ground for Dutch nobles. Additionally, the Jonker Street Night Market is a popular spot for locals and tourists, showcasing an array of delicacies from many cultures, as well as souvenirs and handicrafts. Order the spicy Nyonya cuisine to tase a blend of Chinese and Malay influences.

Day 2: Melaka Walking Tour, Transfer to Kuala Lumpur, Explore

After breakfast at your hotel, meet a local guide for a walking tour through Melaka. Visit historical sites, including Chinatown, the Stadhuys, and Christchurch, while learning tidbits along the way. Return to your accommodation a few hours later, then meet your driver in the hotel lobby and transfer back to Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia's bustling capital has a variety of cultural attractions, as well as parks, shopping, and entertainment.

The city's modern skyline is dominated by the 1,480-foot (451 m) tall Petronas Towers—a pair of glass-and-steel-clad skyscrapers with Islamic motifs—fused with a public sky bridge and observation deck. The city is also home to many landmarks from the British colonial period, such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station. As for dinner, Kuala Lumpur offers ample restaurants, bars, and night markets where you can try delicious local food. 

Day 3: Kuala Lumpur Walking Tour

Today you'll join a walking tour of Kuala Lumpur to see some of the city's iconic historical buildings and landmarks. Your first stop will be Sultan Street, famous for its colorful buildings and murals that showcase Malaysia's cultural diversity. Here, you'll learn about the origins of the street's name and the significance of the murals. Next, you'll visit Rust Market, a bustling bazaar that sells a wide range of products, from clothes to electronics, at bargain prices. You'll have the chance to barter with the vendors and experience the market's lively atmosphere.

Petaling Street, also known as Chinatown, is your next destination, followed by Wet Market, a traditional market that sells fresh produce and seafood. Next, visit several temples and mosques—a testament to the city's religious diversity—as well as Independence Square, a significant landmark for Malaysia's national independence. Finally, stop at the KL City Gallery, which showcases the history and development of Kuala Lumpur through interactive exhibits and displays. 

Day 4: Transfer to the Cameron Highlands, Explore

This morning you'll transfer north to the cooler Cameron Highlands of Peninsular Malaysia. After check-in, explore the scenic beauty and unique culture of this destination, starting with the Boh Tea Plantation, one of the country's largest tea plantations. Here, you'll learn about the history of tea production in Malaysia, see the tea-making process in action, and sample some of the finest teas produced in the region.

In addition, the Cameron Highlands are home to many strawberry farms, where you can pick your own fruit and taste delicious strawberry-themed treats such as jams, tarts, and ice cream. If you're interested in history, visit the Time Tunnel Museum, and learn about the region's Indigenous people, the Orang Asli, and their unique way of life. Finally, don't miss the opportunity to taste the local cuisine, including the popular steamboat hotpot or some sizzling hot satay with peanut sauce.

Day 5: Mount Brinchang Visit, Transfer to Penang

This morning, meet your driver and guide in your hotel lobby for a tour of Mount Brinchang and the surrounding region. First, visit the aptly-named Mossy Forest via its pedestrian walkways, where you can look for unique plants and trees. Stop for a quick lunch and then continue to a few other attractions, including a butterfly and insect farm, a produce market, and Sam Poh Buddhist Temple. Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon, and then transfer to the city of George Town on the island of Penang, where you'll have the rest of the day to explore at your own pace.

One of the main attractions of UNESCO-listed George Town is its well-preserved colonial architecture. The Penang Peranakan Mansion and Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion are just a few examples of the beautiful buildings you can visit. The city is also famous for its murals and sculptures that depict the local culture and way of life, which you can see on a walking tour. In addition, George Town is known for its exceptional cuisine, including must-try dishes like char kway teow (stir-fried rice noodles), laksa (spicy coconut soup), and nasi kandar (a selection of curries). 

Day 6: Penang Driving Tour

After breakfast, meet your driver and local guide and explore more of Penang. Discover the island's natural beauty as you visit unique spots and try different activities. During the tour, you'll learn about the traditional art of fabric making, drive through the hills of the tropical rainforest, visit some street stalls, and explore several traditional Malay villages. You'll also visit the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, called Kek Lok Si Temple, and do some shopping before heading back to your accommodation.

Day 7: Depart Penang

The day has come to say goodbye to Malaysia! If time allows, take one last walk around George Town this morning before transferring to the international airport for your flight home. Safe travels!

More Great Malaysia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Malaysia? Check out these other Malaysia itineraries, explore different ways to spend a week in Malaysia, or learn about the best time to visit Malaysia.