Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: The Perfect Itinerary For 2 – 5 Days [2024]

Travelling to Malaysia and looking for the perfect Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary? Perfect! We can help in this KL itinerary blog.

Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit destination! A true gem of Southeast Asia and a major business centre, it brings together people from all corners of the globe. An eclectic and exciting city, it hums with a rich, chaotic mix of people enjoying gastronomic delights and world-class hotels.

Vibrant, glittering skyscrapers – such as the Petronas Twin Towers – sit alongside breathtaking architectural delights such as the Masjid Jamek Mosque. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the sprawling Chinatown, marvel at religious hotspots like the 100-year old temple of Batu Caves, explore the region’s diverse history at the many museums and enjoy sensational shopping malls and renowned flea markets. Thrift or splurge, your budget is accommodated!

Dine at fancy restaurants or atmospheric local markets for aromatic street food. A pulsating city that rarely sleeps, you’ll find luxury lounge-bars, hidden-away speakeasies, and some of the world’s top rooftop pool bars and thumping clubs.

Our Kuala Lumpur Malaysia itinerary takes you through the sights and flavours of this remarkable city.

Below, you will find the ultimate Kuala Lumpur trip itinerary! We walk you through options whether you want a city tour in Kuala Lumpur itinerary, a 2 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary, a 4 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary or are lucky enough to need a Kuala Lumpur 5 days itinerary.

You can simply stop following our Kuala Lumpur city tour itinerary if your trip finishes in less than 5 days when you hit the number of days you have or pick the days that sound best from the Kuala Lumpur itinerary 5 days below.

If you have longer in Kuala Lumpur, lucky you! You can take this Kuala Lumpur DIY itinerary slower with more time to relax (and cool down) at your hotel or look for other things to do in Kuala Lumpur from our full list below.

Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay in Kuala Lumpur depending on your budget and a map of everything included in this Kuala Lumpur itinerary blog.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist. We’ll help you get ready for your trip! 

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Perfect Kuala Lumpur Itinerary [2024]

Remember, this is a full 5d4n Kuala Lumpur itinerary. If you have less days, simply pick the days that most appeal.

I also want to add that this works as a honeymoon KL city tour itinerary, a Kuala Lumpur budget itinerary or a Kuala Lumpur tour itinerary for family – just take out activities if you want to make it easier, cheaper or if they don’t seem suitable for your kids.

The highlights of this itinerary in Kuala Lumpur are:

• Discover iconic buildings such as the Petronas Twin Towers and Masjid Jamek Mosque.
• Dine at the revolving restaurant at the top of the KL Tower.
• Enjoy a rainforest canopy walk at the KL Forest Eco Park.
• Shop until you drop at Bukit Bintang.
• Visit the National Museum and IAMM, delving into the history and culture of the region.
• Get out of the city and explore the picturesque cave temples at Batu Caves.
• Dine on finger-licking street food at Jalan Alor.
• Enjoy cocktails and a swim at the infamous rooftop SkyBar.
• Discover secret bars in Chinatown, such as the speakeasy PS150.
• And find your inner child with a day at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park.

If you have longer, consider one of the many great places you can easily visit from Kuala Lumpur. You can find weekend getaways from KL here or KL day trip options here. You can also consider some of Kuala Lumpur’s hidden gems.

I have written this itinerary after 10+ visits to Kuala Lumpur, and I update it again after each new visit – which was three times in the last year alone! So you can be sure you are always getting the best options.

Day 1: Past And Present: Kuala Lumpur 1 Day Itinerary

Dive into Kuala Lumpur head first with this day 1 itinerary. You’ll tick off some of the city’s most famous and historical buildings, enjoy a sunset drink at a quintessential rooftop bar and catch a stunning light show.

• There’s no better place to start this itinerary KL city tour than at Merdeka Square, at the centre of everything.
• Cross over the River and visit the beautiful Masjid Jamek Mosque, unmistakable with its onion-shaped domes.
• Take a 10-minute taxi to the colourful Little India Brickfields, exploring the shops and grabbing lunch.
• Next up, the highlight of this Kuala Lumpur one day itinerary, as you zoom up to the 86th Level at the Petronas Twin Towers – KL’s most iconic building!
• Relax in the afternoon at the KLCC Park, under the Petronas Twin Towers, admiring the fountains and greenery.
• Refreshed, hit the SkyBar at Traders Hotel for a twilight cocktail and snacks at this famous rooftop swimming pool bar.
• In the evening, return to KLCC Park to catch its renowned fountain light show.

Merdeka (Or Independence) Square

Start your exploration of Kuala Lumpur at one of the city’s most important landmarks, where in 1957, Malaysian independence was declared. In the British era, this square was a cricket pitch. Today, a 95-metre flagpole (the world’s tallest) proudly marks the spot flying the Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian flag).

This green area in the middle of the urban chaos is surprisingly peaceful, with a 200-metre-long padang (“field”) still meticulously maintained, surrounded by wonderful heritage buildings. This includes the magnificent Sultan Abdul Samad Building and one of Malaysia’s oldest Anglican churches, St Mary’s Anglican Cathedral.

The square is easily accessible by one of three train lines that run through the Masjid Jamek station.

Address: Jalan Raja, City Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque

Next up on your Kuala Lumpur day tour itinerary, Masjid Jamek Mosque (also known as the “Friday Mosque”) is one of the oldest Islamic places of worship in the city. Over 100 years old, the Mosque was built overlooking the Klang River with a combination of ancient Moorish, Islam and Mughal architectural styles.

Set against a backdrop of beautiful trees and the modern iconic Kuala Lumpur landmarks, the Mosque makes for some dramatic photos.

You’ll find the main prayer hall with three shapely domes, various beautiful arches and two pink and white banded minarets standing over 25 metres tall. To discover more about Islam, the Islamic Experience Centre just outside the mosque is well worth a visit.

To enter, dress modestly which means covering shoulders and having clothing below the knee (robes are available to borrow), and explore inside the Mosque and relax in the surrounding gardens.

Visitors are allowed outside of prayer time, with no entry on Friday.

Address: 109 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Little India Brickfields

Brickfields is Malaysia’s official Little India, having been transformed from a simple residential neighbourhood into a wide street bursting with wonderful Indian stores, restaurants and culture. The area is managed by the country’s Indian community. It’s definitely one of Kuala Lumpur’s tourist hotspots, and you’ll enjoy the unique sounds and exotic smells!

Discover a plethora of colourful Indian goodies… Saris, flower garlands, spices… They are all sold to the constant blast of Bollywood music. Recently redeveloped, the streets are colourful with white street lamps, purple-painted buildings and multi-coloured arches. There’s also a 35-foot fountain and a new three-storey Indian Bazaar full of bargains.

Start from Jalan Tun Sambanthan, where you’ll feel you’ve been transported into the streets of India, and stop for lunch to taste the very affordable cuisine at any one of the traditional banana leaf restaurants.

Address: Jalan Travers to Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields

Petronas Twin Towers

These twin skyscrapers are surely the number one iconic symbol of Kuala Lumpur and definitely the highlight on this Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 1 day. Constructed in 1998, when they held the record until 2004 for the tallest buildings in the world, they are today the world’s tallest twin-towers.

The city’s ultimate landmark, 1000 visitors are allowed up each day. Purchase a ticket and head to the Skybridge – a double-decker glass-walled skybridge that connects the two towers on the 41st and 42nd floors. 

After about ten minutes here, you’ll be escorted in a second lift up to the thrilling 86th Level for an observation deck and an exhibit of the tower’s history. Admire the structure’s Islamic-inspired architecture and 360 degree bird’s eye view across Kuala Lumpur.

You’ll then journey back down with a gift shop stop on the way.

It’s a great introduction to the city and a visit here takes about an hour.

You do need tickets beforehand as they sell out regularly. Make sure you arrive with plenty of time to spare before your time slot if you don’t get a tour here.

It’s tricky to work out where to enter. Head to Dewan Filharmonik Petronas which is connected to Suria KLCC shopping centre and it’s obvious where to go once you hit there.

If you get lost in the shopping centre, like I did, look for the Salvatore Ferragamo shop in the directory. There is a sign next to this which tells you which way to go. It’s easy from here.

There is a security scan on entry and anything bigger than a small backpack, or any beverages, need to be left at a luggage counter (included).

It’s well worth visiting here on your KL stay.

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur

Click here to purchase discounted tickets.

KLCC Park

It’s now time to relax and wander the 50 acres of the urban sanctuary that is KLCC Park, easily located under the Petronas Twin Towers.

Visually stunning, with landscaped walking paths, sculptures, jogging track and fountains, the park also has a two-acre kid’s playground which makes this a haven for families.

Conservation and biodiversity was a major influence in the creation of this park, home to over 1,900 indigenous trees, from 74 species. And, for those happy to get wet, you’ll find cascade and reflecting pools scattered throughout the park, and a public children’s swimming pool.

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

SkyBar

If you haven’t been to SkyBar then you haven’t really been to Kuala Lumpur!

Always in the top 10 things to do in KL, just before sunset head to the infamous SkyBar high up on the 33rd Floor of Traders Hotel for cocktails and evening snacks.

A firm favourite of Kuala Lumpur’s party people, the famed signature pool is surrounded by cabanas on one side and the bar on the other. Views are everywhere.

One of the city’s most popular rooftop bars, it features a variety of creative cocktails, nightly DJs (techno, jazz, easy-listening and modern pop) and – of course – amazing views of the city and nearby Petronas Twin Towers.

After 7pm, visitors must be 21 years old to enter—smart casual dress code.

Address: Level 33, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Symphony Fountain Lightshow

Last, on this 1 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary, head back to the KLCC Park to catch the colourful and popular fountain light show at Lake Symphony. Sit down and enjoy this scenic view under the iconic Twin Towers.

Two musical fountains display over 150 uniquely programmed animations in a magical performance of sound and water with dozens of water jets shooting up in the air and colourful beams of lights that seem to dance across the water.

KLCC Lake Symphony Light and Sound Water Fountain showtimes are 8pm, 9pm and 10pm daily. KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain showtimes (light only) are 7:30pm, 8:30pm and 9:30pm daily.

Address: Lake Symphony, right next to Suria KLCC

Day 2: Forests And Shopping: Kuala Lumpur 2 Day Itinerary

Today, on this Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 2 days, you’ll discover how green the city centre can be by enjoying a canopy treetop walk through lush rainforest. Next, you’ll have lunch at a revolving restaurant high above the city. In the afternoon, shop until you drop.

For dinner, it’s terrific street food followed by well deserved cocktails at a lively bar.  Phew!

• Start today at the rainforest in the city centre – The KL Forest Eco Park.
• Go up the KL Tower. Have fun at the SkyDeck and take lunch at the revolving restaurant.
• Next, shop to your heart’s content at Bukit Bintang.
• All shopped-out, it’s time for dinner at the atmospheric Jalan Alor Food Street, crammed full of street-side cooking stations.
• End the evening with a relaxing (or lively!) drink at Changkat Bukit Bintang Street.

KL Forest Eco Park

Start your Kuala Lumpur 2 days itinerary with a unique attraction at the KL Forest Eco Park, making this the only city in the world to have a natural rainforest right at its centre!

Perhaps the best free activity in the city, stroll the 200-metre canopy walk, providing you with an aerial view of the 9-acres of rainforest and replace traffic hum with the buzz of insects and cackling birdlife.

You’ll find a variety of trees, herbs, bamboo and creepers, and wildlife such as monkeys and small mammals. Follow the nature trails, enjoy longer hikes along three well marked trails or visit the Herbal Garden.

Open 7am-7pm, visit before 10 am to avoid the crowds.

Address: Lot 240, Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur

For an alternative, you could visit Bukit Kiara instead. This is about a 20 minute taxi ride from KL Sentral, but you’ll find yourself in 400 acres of forested area. It’s amazing! Hikes start at 50 minutes.

KL Tower

The Kuala Lumpur Tower is a communications tower that – due to its incredible height – has become the second most recognisable building in the city…

The gleaming tower’s spindle top, inspired by a Malaysian spinning top, is visible from almost anywhere. Taller than the Petronas Twin Towers, it provides the most spectacular views of the city. At least, until Merdeka 118 opens soon 😀

As of 2024, the KL Tower is the 7th tallest freestanding tower in the world and there’s nowhere better to appreciate the view than from the tower’s revolving restaurant – Atmosphere 360. Thrill at the high speed of the restaurant’s elevator and dine with panoramic 360 degree views of the city.

Address: No. 2 Jalan Punchak Off Jalan P.Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur

Click here to purchase discounted tickets.

Shop at Bukit Bintang

Where to go in KL for shopping? Bukit Bintang of course!

Respected as the city’s trendiest shopping and entertainment district, Bukit Bintang has a slice of everything – Sleek shopping centres, five star hotels, all-day restaurants and nightclubs!

Along Jalan Bukit Bintang you’ll find nine major malls (and more to come!) within a very short distance of each other. Save your tired feet on this 2 days Kuala Lumpur itinerary and use the free Go KL City Shuttle Bus that will take you on a circuit of the area.

The most iconic landmark is perhaps Pavilion KL, home to an upscale modern shopping mall crammed full of world famous designer stores: Coach, Dolce & Gabbana, Juicy Couture, Versace and Yves Saint Laurent.

Other highlights include more luxury fashion at Starhill Gallery and Berjaya Times Square that covers several blocks jammed full of clothes shops, leisure and dining venues as well as the country’s largest indoor theme park.

On the hunt for the latest gadgets and gizmos, check-out Low Yat Plaza, and ISETAN Kuala Lumpur has a wide range of upmarket Japanese brands. Finally, don’t miss out Kenanga Wholesale City, the city’s first wholesale fashion mall home to over 800 stores selling clothes, fashion accessories, shoes and gifts at really cheap prices.

Shop to your heart’s (and pocket’s) content!

Jalan Alor Food Street

Where to head for dinner? How about an entire street dedicated to great food? Let’s have a foodie adventure…

Slap bang in the middle of Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Alor reminds you of years gone by. As the sun goes down, the street starts to bustle with activity as this food haven opens to locals and tourists looking to sample some of the best culinary delights that Malaysia has to offer.  And it’s all sold at reasonable prices.

Skewers of meats, still-swimming fish, tentacled things on sticks, and many vegetarian dishes with tofu are highly featured. As are grilled, steamed and fried everything, along with noodles and rice cooked in all manner of ways!

Rows of stalls and restaurants lining both sides of the road entice you with their unique dishes. Bring your appetite, as you experience not only food but the local culture too. The street takes on a life of its own.

Hot and sweaty, loud and crowded.  Pots of oil bubble and steam rises from large woks. Restaurateurs call out, and menus are repeatedly thrown in your direction. Buskers sing or strum guitars. Let the chaotic atmosphere and delicious smells engulf you… It’s not just great fun, but I have had some of the best food in KL here.

You can read my full guide to visiting Jalan Alor Food Street here as well as some of the foods I recommend you eat.

Address: Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur

Changkat Bukit Bintang Street

Stomach full, but not tired yet from your Kuala Lumpur itinerary 2 days tour? Take a short walk from Jalan Alor to Changkat Bukit Bintang, the hub of the city’s nightlife. Connected to Jalan Alor, you just need to walk a block or two to hit the bars on this street.

A charming mix of old and new, you’ll find a network of alleys and streets full of buildings from pre-war that have been converted into upscale alfresco drinking venues.

This is a lively street lined with plenty of international two-storey restobars, nightclubs and posh cocktail lounges as well as famous nightclubs such as Havana and Pisco Bar. Whisky bars, Irish pubs, theme nights and more, the whole street comes alive with colourful lights, signage, tunes and the sound of people having a great time!

Day 3: History, Gardens And Chinatown: Kuala Lumpur 3 Day Itinerary

After your busy day yesterday, you will slow the pace this morning on your Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 3 days, enjoying some of the city’s best wildlife and a grand old mosque. You’ll explore the city’s best museums and finish the day at atmospheric Chinatown learning all about the Secrets of KL!

• Take a leisurely breakfast before heading out to the KL Bird Park to admire bright flamingos, macaws and more!
• Next, it’s time to admire the National Mosque – Masjid Negara – and discover more about Islam at the Islamic Arts Museum, followed by lunch at their Middle Eastern Moza Restaurant.
• Replenished and relaxed, learn about the history of Malaysia with a visit to the National Museum.
• Finally, for possibly the highlight of this 3 days itinerary in Kuala Lumpur, finish your afternoon and evening at Chinatown learning so much about the food, culture and nightlife of KL on a fabulous food tour.

KL Bird Park

Billed (no pun intended!) as the world’s largest covered bird park, Kuala Lumpur Bird Park (also known as Taman Burung Kuala Lumpur) opened in 1991. Over the years, this showpiece of the renowned 60-hectares Lake Gardens has become home to over 3,000 birds from 200 species and is a great venue to kick off your Kuala Lumpur 3 days itinerary.

Split into sections, such as Brahminy Land, the family-favourite World of Parrots and Flamingo Pond (and many, many more!), the spectacle of the Park is it’s free-flight-walk-in-Aviary with over 60 colourful species of local and foreign birds.

Look out for stunning Indian blue peacocks with five-foot trains, majestic hornbills, hungry pelican, and frolicking storks and flamingos in the beautifully landscaped gardens and ponds.

It’s not just the birds that are great, but the setting is truly beautiful as well. These are great gardens, and I have very much enjoyed walked around here.

Time your visit for a Bird Show or Feeding Session. Full details on their site.

Address: 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens

Click here to purchase your discounted tickets.

National Mosque Kuala Lumpur (Masjid Negara)

Inspired by Mecca’s Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram), this gigantic 1960’s elegant mosque accommodates up to 15,000 worshippers. Famed for its umbrella-like blue-tile roof with 18 points symbolising the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam, the 5x-daily call to prayer rings out across the city from its 74 metre-high minaret.

Surrounded by lush greenery across a 13-acre area with reflecting white marble pools and fountains, the mosque has become a nationwide symbol of Islam. Explore the main prayer hall with 48 smaller domes around it and look for the abstract shapes and geometric lattice in the roofing and ironworks.

Also, discover the seven-point, umbrella-shaped annexe, Makam Pahlawan (Heroes’ Mausoleum) towards the back of the mosque containing the crypt of Tun Abdul Razak, Malaysia’s second prime minister, as well as other political celebrities.

The mosque is definitely one of the most interesting places to see in Kuala Lumpur, with non-Muslims welcome to visit outside of prayer times. Dress appropriately or robes are available. Entry is free.

Address: Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana

Islamic Arts Museum

The IAMM (Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia) is possibly the stand out museum in the country with over 7,000 artefacts from across the Islamic world. Exhibits mainly come from the Middle East, alongside Asian Islamic Arts from China, India and the Malay world.

All together, 12 permanent galleries focus on Architecture (with incredible replicas of noted Islamic buildings and mosques from around the world), India, China, Malay-World, Jewellery, Textiles, Arms & Armour, Coins & Seals, Metalwork, Ceramics and Living With Wood. The latter is our favourite with detailed carvings, screens and windows with intricate geometric patterns.

The sheer quality of the exhibits sets this museum apart from others and you can easily spend 2 hours admiring the items. For lunch, on this Kuala Lumpur itinerary 3 days, we suggest dipping into the onsite Middle Eastern restaurant, Moza, for some exotic delights washed down with steaming Arabic coffee.

Located near Lake Gardens, check here for the latest exhibits.

Address: Perdana, Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

National Museum

It’s time to discover Malaysia’s conflicted history, economy, geography, arts, crafts and culture!

At the main entrance, admire two large murals of Italian glass mosaic that show the country’s major historical events. Inside, wander the exhibits displayed across three floors. Life-size dioramas of ritual weddings and traditional Malaysian life (fishing, farming, weaving, etc) await your exploration, along with a life-size, traditional Malacca Baba house with mahogany furniture and stunning carpets.

On the first floor, you’ll find brass, silver and gold ornaments. The second houses an impressive collection of weapons alongside – strangely – the zoological area full of stuffed animals!

Throughout the museum, you’ll learn about regional festivals and costumes, traditional weapons, musical instruments, arts and crafts, ceramics and local flora and fauna. There’s also a section devoted to a replica of the 11,000-year-old Perak Man, Malaysia’s most celebrated archaeological discovery.

Outside, check out ancient burial poles from Sarawak and two excellent smaller galleries – the Orang Asli Craft Museum and the Museum of Malay World Ethnology.

Open from 9am-6pm, the Museum also has a small cafe.

Address: Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara, Tasik Perdana

Secrets Of KL Food Tour

A great way to spend the rest of today is on a food tour.

Simply Enak food tours are fantastic and introduce you to the food of Kuala Lumpur and its diverse cultures while sharing the story of the city.

So for the rest of today, you can follow the itinerary below or join up to this Secrets of KL food tour which will take you to similar places, including a speakeasy), but you’ll eat and learn so much.

Use the coupon code, DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour price per adult.

You can also find full details of all of their food tours here.

If you would prefer (or if you are travelling with kids), you could switch the order of today and do a Kuala Lumpur Street Food tour first thing in the morning around Chinatown and then visit some of the attractions mentioned above in the afternoon.

We did this when we were last in KL with our kids and they loved this food tour.

Click here to read our full review of the KL Street Food tour or here to sign up now!

Chinatown

Late afternoon, head to the vibrant, never-sleeping, red heart of Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown! Deeply immersed in Oriental culture, heritage and history, this is one of the most popular tourist spots in Malaysia and a highlight of your itinerary, Kuala Lumpur 3 days.

Home to most of the local Chinese community – and where KL first started by Chinese immigrants as a city back in 1957 – today, ramshackle Chinese shophouses line narrow streets and passageways with burning incense smoking from almost every doorway.

You’ll find everything here… Secret, eccentric, speakeasy cocktail bars tucked down side streets, hawker markets, hipster-style coffee shops in unrenovated gorgeous old buildings, oriental music, religious buildings from different faiths and food!

Dining options are varied and plentiful, with Chinese High Tea, cheap-street food or traditional Chinese cuisine. Probably the most famous is Song Kee Beef Noodles, opened in 1945 and a family establishment passed down through the generations. Try their “Hakka” noodles, traditionally prepared with marinated beef or pork, served with a side dish of beef ball soup. For dessert, head to Bun Choon bakery for their famed egg tarts.

There’s also many local vendors and some of the last people making handmade food delights in the city. You can see it all here.

Chinatown includes the colourful Hindu temple of Sri Maha Mariamman, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Chan See Shu Yuen Temple and many Chinese Taoist temples. Enjoy exploring numerous art galleries with exhibits from local and regional artists.

Sometimes dirty, almost always overcrowded, full of old architecture, mouth-watering food and a buzzing tourist atmosphere, Chinatown is a wonderful area to visit.

Address: Jalan Petaling, City Centre, Kuala Lumpur

Petaling Street Market

At the epicentre of Chinatown, you’ll find the bustling Petaling Street Market, a bargain-hunters paradise with a myriad of stuff from Chinese herbs to imitation goods!

Row upon row of stalls are set up under a massive green awning, selling clothing, handbags, handicrafts, sunglasses and accessories at ridiculously cheap prices… which you’re expected to haggle even lower!

Even if you’re not interested in purchasing anything, it’s a fun place to wander around. Chaotic, loud and Oriental – you’ll often see Chinese dragons dancing up and down the narrow streets – Petaling Street Market is a must-visit Kuala Lumpur attraction.

And of course, there’s food on offer everywhere – from steamed dumplings, deep fried chicken feet to Chinese buns and coconut pancakes.

Address: Petaling Street, Jalan Petaling

Visit A Speakeasy

From secret bars to speakeasy-style cocktail dens, Chinatown comes alive at night. These “hidden” bars aren’t so hidden these days as social media posts publicise the exotic (and sometimes erotic!) interiors.

PS150, formerly a brothel, is arguably Kuala Lumpur’s worst kept secret. Consistently the talk of the town, it’s divided into three sections, Opium Den, post-war inspired Tiki and the main bar area is a wonderful mix of old and new. Hidden behind the counter of an old stationery shop, a visit here is easily one of the most fun things to do in Kuala Lumpur with your special someone.

Address: 150, Jalan Petaling, City Centre

Day 4: Batu Caves And Genting Highlands: Kuala Lumpur 4 Day Itinerary

Head out of town today on your 4 days itinerary in Kuala Lumpur, to world-renowned temple caves and KL’s latest theme park.

• Set out after breakfast on an organised tour for a full day tour to explore Batu Caves and Genting Highlands (find it here).
• In the evening, return to the city and take dinner at the Chinese-inspired Lot 10 Hutong.

Batu Caves

A popular tourist attraction, the spectacular natural and man-made wonder of Batu Caves comprises three major caves and several smaller ones. Named after the Batu river that runs through the area, the caves are over 100-years old.

An important religious landmark for Hindus, at the entrance a 140 foot tall, golden-painted statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu deity of war, welcomes you. Walk up the 272 steps to the top, where you’ll find idols and statues scattered in and out of the caves. Delve deep inside the caves to discover limestone formations said to date from 400 million years ago.

For those with a sense of adventure, explore more of the cave’s natural labyrinths in the Dark Cave for some amateur spelunking tours or rock crag climbing at the back of the mountain.

Once you’ve finished discovering the Temple Cave at the top of the stairs, visit the Villa Cave and Ramayana Cave; two other cave temples at the foot of Batu Hill (both have an entry charge).

Approximately eleven kilometres from central Kuala Lumpur, reachable by train from KL Sentral Station, this is a popular KL day-trip itinerary. Watch out for the cheeky macaque monkeys who call the caves their home and won’t hesitate to snatch your bag or food if given half the chance!

Address: Batu Caves, Sri Subramaniam Temple, Kuala Lumpur

Click here to book a discounted day tour or read our full guide to Batu Caves here.

Genting Highlands

It’s another 40 minutes drive to Genting Highlands where you have tons of fun options. You can take a taxi here from Batu Caves or buy this tour which will take you to both.

You’ll be dropped off at the Awana Skyway where you can take a cable car over the rainforest to Resorts World Genting Highlands.

Genting Highlands is 1,865 metres above sea level so is much cooler than KL. There are many attractions here and it’s a lot of fun.

A popular option is to head to the newest theme park, Genting SkyWorlds. This park has over 26 rides spread over 9 differently themed worlds. Rides range from thrilling roller coasters to awesome 4D experiences. There’s also plenty of cool buildings to walk through and see.

The park themes are based on animations and include Ice Age, Rio and Robotos among others making this a great place for kids. Kids can also meet their favorite characters and take photos with them.

Click here to buy discounted tickets now.

You can also go thrill seeking at the indoor theme park, Skytropolis, or do so many more activities from gambling to eating to experiencing a zombie outbreak!

You can read our full guide to Genting Highlands here.

When you are finished, take the cable car back down then you can re-join your tour guide for the journey back to KL or take a bus or taxi. There are full details about getting between KL and Genting Highlands here.

You can find more details on the day tour here.

Lot 10 Hutong

After your big day, it’s time for dinner.

The pioneer in gathering well-known heritage food brands under one roof, Lot 10 Hutong is a food hall in a modern shopping mall. Imitating the Hutong (alleys of Beijing), stalls are arranged in a maze-like structure from local hawkers – that have a track record dating back at least 40 years – from Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Singapore.

This higher-class air-conditioned food court experience offers as many as 34 different heritage food stalls tempting you with mouth-watering street foods. For sure, you’ll find it tough to decide what to eat!  Popular stalls include Honkee Porridge, Soong Kee Beef Noodles and Kim Lian Kee’s Hokkein Mee (from Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur and selling arguably the most beloved noodle dish in Malaysia).

A must-visit for authentic Chinese food, after dining head to the adjacent ISETAN Japan Store supermarket and food court, to wash down your meal at a sake bar.  A great way to end your Kuala Lumpur itinerary 4 days.

Address: Lot 10 Shopping Centre, 50 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Lower Ground F

Day 5: Ultimate Fun Time: Kuala Lumpur 5 Day Itinerary

Today, you’ll have a super fun day with the best way to end your KL trip itinerary. You’ll do a full day tour in search of fun and adventure for all ages.

• Grab a taxi for the 30-minute drive to the spectacular Sunway Lagoon.
• At the end of the afternoon, return to your hotel and relax before departing home.

There are some alternatives below if you are not a theme park person or find our list here of the best day trips from KL.

Sunway Lagoon

Today, it’s a full day’s trip to the awesome Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Malaysia’s premier theme park and one of Malaysia’s most fun attractions!

The Park has seven exciting sections, starting with Sunway Lost Lagoon. Here, you’ll find water rides and attractions such as Monsoon 360, Jungle Fury, Kubarango, Splish Splash and Hippo Valley.

Next up, hit the Water Park with the Waters of Africa themed water park and Surf Beach, the world’s largest man-made surf beach with waves up to eight feet in height, set to a backdrop of a sporadically erupting volcano! 

Prepare to get wet and thrill at slides, rides and tubes. Vuvuzela – possibly the world’s largest water ride – is the ultimate adventure here! Proper swimming attire is required for this section of the park and changing rooms and lockers are provided.

Dry off and head to the Amusement Park with its World of Adventure and the Night Park’s Wild Wild West. The roller coasters and stomach churning upside down ride on the Pirate’s Revenge will thrill all the family here!

Relax and recover at the Wildlife Park, a little zoo specialising in cute, friendly animals with some eagles, pythons and tigers. Families will enjoy the petting zoo area, and all ages will adore the bird enclosure with friendly budgies, macaws and cockatoos.

For a final burst of adrenaline, X Park doesn’t disappoint!  Reached by crossing an awesome suspension bridge, you’re faced with some top thrill-seeker activities. G Force X slingshot ride, paintball war games, quad bikes and go karts, a vertical climbing wall and a Power Jump Bungee Trampoline. Phew!

And so you’ve reached the last Park.  Ready to feel chills?  Scream Park is a modern take on the epic house-of-horrors. Frightening special effects, live actors ready to jump out and scare you, and horrifically scary rides where you feel you’ve entered the world of The Walking Dead.

A 30-minute taxi ride from central Kuala Lumpur, this is a super fun day out!

Address: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor

Click here for discounted tickets or read our full review here.

Alternative: KL Food Tour

If theme parks are not your thing, I recommend signing up for one of these food tours. They are just amazing!

Alternative: Putrajaya

If you’re not a theme park or food person, an alternative is to visit Putrajaya, the administrative and judicial capital of Malaysia. It’s just 30 minutes from Kuala Lumpur and best visited on an easy day trip round its lovely gardens and grand monuments.

Click here for the great tour I took or here to read our full guide to Putrajaya.

Alternative: Taman Negara

For something completely different (and if you don’t mind a long day), it is possible to day trip to Taman Negara which translates to National Park.

The green heart of peninsular Malaysia, there is much to explore here from the rainforest to the local Orang Asli tribes (Malaysia’s indigenous population).

It’s 3-4 hours drive from KL so it does make for a long day, but it is something completely different that you won’t forget.

Click here for a great tour or here to read more about Taman Negara.

Itinerary Kuala Lumpur Map

Find all the things to do in this city tour Kuala Lumpur itinerary on the map below.

Best Places To Stay In Kuala Lumpur

A sprawling city full of accommodation options, it can be hard to decide what to reserve in Kuala Lumpur. There are luxurious five-star hotels with stunning city views, global-brand hotels with kid’s clubs, well-priced serviced apartments with connecting rooms and no-thrills centrally-located backpacker hotels.

Secondly, you need to decide which district is best for you…

• Bukit Bintang definitely holds the trendiest shopping and entertainment district but comes with the associated traffic headache.
• KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre), the heart of KL, is home to the iconic landmarks such as Petronas Twin Towers and Menara KL Tower, and again has great shopping, nightlife and dining options.
• Chinatown – home to budget accommodation options, this is the place to enjoy the immersive oriental culture, heritage and history of this eclectic area.
• KL Sentral is also a great choice with an impressive number of luxury hotels, local and international dining options and two shopping malls, plus only a 10-minute walk to Brickfields Little India.

Other areas to consider include upmarket Petaling Jaya and Subang Jaya (both good for families with young children who don’t want to stay right in the middle of the city) and Bangsar/Mid Valley, one of KL’s liveliest dining and nightclub hubs. Or, perhaps you’ll enjoy the more local-feel of Chow Kit.

We give you more details about each of the areas to stay in KL as well as their pros and cons, in this guide to where to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

In an attempt to help narrow your selection, I’ve listed a few different places to consider including a budget, mid-range and more expensive option.

BEST – Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur Review

If location is top of your check-list, there is no better hotel in all of Kuala Lumpur. This iconic five-star hotel is part of the luxury Shangri-La brand and has direct access to KLCC Park and Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers.

571 guest rooms and suites, almost all with floor-to-ceiling windows, are designed with contemporary decor and come with luxury amenities such as flat-screen TV, WiFi, and polished granite and oak bathrooms with the Shangri-La’s signature toiletries.

Home to the award-winning SkyBar on the 33rd floor – one of the city’s coolest bars and a stunning pool – you’ll also find a Spa and Health Club. Dining options include Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill (with the city’s best steaks) and the Gobo Chit Chat serving an extensive breakfast buffet.

Make sure you book a room with Petronas Twin Tower views as pictured above.

Click here to check current pricing and availability or here to read my full review.

MID-RANGE – Berjaya Times Square Hotel Review

With direct access to the Berjaya Times Square Shopping Mall (housing an indoor amusement park), this is a standout choice for families or those that wish to be centrally located or enjoy shopping.

The hotel has 650 rooms and suites that feature modern comforts, cable TV channels and ensuite bathrooms mostly with a separate shower and bathtub. Rooms are split across many categories, ranging from superior, premier, family, two-bedroom, club-rooms and even a stunning penthouse. They are all a great size and have everything you would expect like air-conditioning and tea and coffee making facilities.

The cheaper room types could do with a renovation, but it doesn’t cost much more for a more modern room type.

An extensive selection of food and beverage outlets are offered, including fine dining at Samplings on the Fourteenth, Big Apple Restaurant with international cuisine, and Broadway Lounge serving light snacks and cocktails. Then there are the many, many restaurants downstairs in the massive shopping centre.

Recreational facilities include a children’s playground, huge swimming pool, steam and sauna room, fitness centre and two squash courts. This is especially a great option for families.

Click here to check current pricing and availability or here to read my full review.

BUDGET – Hotel Olympic

Conveniently located a short walk from Chinatown and close to the metro and Merdeka 118, the Hotel Olympic is a great choice. Rooms all have air-conditioning, flatscreen televisions and kettles. Complimentary WiFi is a nice touch, and bathrooms are private.

Rooms are split across a range of room types from doubles and twins to quads. There are also suite options including a fabulous junior suite for families with a double bed and super cool bunk beds (built to look like a house) with a slide

The hotel itself is colourful and modern with a restaurant and convenience store on-site.

Click here for the latest prices.

If you would like something cheaper and don’t mind staying in a room without a window, also consider the Big M Hotel here. This is also conveniently located in Chinatown.

Click here to see all our recommendations for the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur.

Final Words

Whether you’re pulled in by its fabulous shopping, world-class cuisine, nightlife, exotic culture or passing through as a short stopover before heading out to discover Malaysia’s pristine beaches and islands, Kuala Lumpur is a modern capital city full of hidden treasures.

Blessed with a rich natural beauty and an amazing quantity of activities, you won’t be disappointed!

If you want to make things ultra-easy on your trip, remember you can do a KL tour. Find our varied list of the best options here.

We hope you enjoyed this sample itinerary for Kuala Lumpur, perfect whether you are looking for 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary or a 3 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary or Kuala Lumpur 4 days itinerary. You can find a shorter 3 day KL itinerary here or if you want something more organised, find our list of best KL tours here. Find more information to plan your perfect trip to Kuala Lumpur in our complete guide to KL here.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!