Get a taste of the diversity of Malaysia on this compact five-day trip that hits the highlights of Melaka and Kuala Lumpur. Touch down in Kuala Lumpur and hit the ground running as you transfer to Melaka to explore the city on foot. Stroll the streets of Chinatown and take a river cruise along the Melaka River, then return to the capital to see its monuments. Finish your trip with a river cruise near Kuala Selangor and enjoy an explosion of fireflies lighting up the night.

Highlights

  • Take a walking tour of UNESCO-listed Melaka and admire its architectural gems
  • See how modern meets ancient in the lively capital of Kuala Lumpur
  • Watch fireflies light up the night on an evening river cruise near Kuala Selangor 

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Kuala Lumpur, Transfer to Melaka Melaka
Day 2 Melaka Walking City Tour  Melaka
Day 3 Transfer to Kuala Lumpur, Walking City Tour Kuala Lumpur
Day 4 Kuala Selangor Fireflies Cruise & Dinner Kuala Lumpur
Day 5 Depart Kuala Lumpur  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kuala Lumpur, Transfer to Melaka

Transfer Kuala Lumpur Airport to Melaka Hotel
Admire the vibrant red of Christ Church Melaka

Welcome to Malaysia! After touching down in the capital of Kuala Lumpur, a driver will be waiting to transfer you two hours south to the city of Melaka. Located in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its rich heritage, ancient landmarks, and colonial buildings. Once you've gotten settled at your hotel, the rest of the day is free to explore.

Don't miss the 16th-century A'Famosa Fort, and admire St. Paul's Church, a historical monument that served as a burial ground for Dutch nobles. Visit the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, and take a stroll through Jonker Street, a popular spot showcasing an array of local delicacies, souvenirs, and handicrafts. In the evening, take a river cruise and taste local dishes at one of the city's many restaurants.

Day 2: Melaka Walking City Tour 

Walking City Tour Melaka
Stroll along the Melaka River promenade in the evening

Today you'll embark on a captivating walking city tour with your guide to explore Melaka. This culturally rich city boasts a fascinating history spanning centuries and has been influenced by various colonial powers such as the Dutch, Portuguese, and British. Marvel at the architectural gems as you visit Chinatown, where vibrant colors and aromatic flavors blend harmoniously. Admire the iconic Stadhuys, a Dutch colonial building, and Christchurch, an enduring symbol of British heritage.

Your local guide will provide intriguing anecdotes and historical insights throughout the tour. After a few hours of immersion in Melaka's captivating past, return to your hotel, where you'll have the remainder of the afternoon free. 

Day 3: Transfer to Kuala Lumpur, Walking City Tour

Kuala Lumpur Walking City Tour
You can't miss the incredible Mahamariamman Temple

Meet your driver in the hotel lobby this morning for a two-hour transfer back to Kuala Lumpur. Once settled, join a walking city tour to explore the rich cultural heritage with a local tour guide. During the tour, you'll visit some of the city's iconic historic buildings and landmarks and discover the stories behind them. Start with Sultan Street, famous for its colorful buildings and murals, and learn about the origins of the street's name and the significance of the murals. Next, visit the Rust Market, a bustling bazaar that sells a wide range of products at bargain prices.

Petaling Street, also known as Chinatown, is home to numerous shops and eateries that offer a taste of Chinese culture. You'll get to explore the street's hidden alleys and learn about the history of Chinese immigration to Malaysia. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the Wet Market, and see the Kwong Siew Temple, a traditional Chinese temple that dates back to the 19th century.

It's on to the Mahamariamman Temple next, the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur that boasts intricate carvings and colorful statues depicting Hindu mythology. Continue to the Jamek Mosque, the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur and a testament to the city's religious diversity. During your visit here, you'll learn about Islamic culture and customs and discover the mosque's unique architecture and history. Finally, visit the KL City Gallery, which showcases the history and development of Kuala Lumpur through interactive exhibits and displays.

Plan your trip to Malaysia
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Day 4: Kuala Selangor Fireflies Cruise & Dinner

Kuala Selangor Fireflies Cruise & Dinner
Meet the silvery lutung monkeys of Kuala Selangor this afternoon

You'll have this morning free to enjoy Kuala Lumpur however you choose—head back to some of your favorite neighborhoods from yesterday's tour, or visit the 1,479-foot (451 m) tall Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of glass-and-steel-clad skyscrapers with Islamic motifs. The towers also offer a public sky bridge and an observation deck where you'll be met with superb city views. 

Later in the afternoon, you'll meet your guide for a scenic 50-minute drive to Kuala Selangor, a charming coastal town known for its excellent seafood and unspoiled nature. Begin your visit at Melawati Hill, capturing stunning photos of the resident silvery lutung monkeys, and admire the grandeur of Altingsburg Lighthouse.

Treat your taste buds to a mouthwatering dinner at a renowned local seafood restaurant, savoring the fresh flavors of the region, before ending the evening with an enchanting riverboat cruise. Witness the spectacle of fireflies illuminating the night sky and revel in the beautiful sunset as you glide along the tranquil river. 

Day 5: Depart Kuala Lumpur

Farwell
See you again, Kuala Lumpur
It's time to bid your farewells to Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia. Meet your driver at your hotel lobby for a transfer to the airport to catch your departing flight. Safe travels!

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Map

Map of Malaysia Getaway: Melaka & Kuala Lumpur - 5 Days
Map of Malaysia Getaway: Melaka & Kuala Lumpur - 5 Days