Singapore
Before you start your journey through Malaysia, we recommend a stopover in Singapore.
The city-state is definitely one of the most fascinating megacities in the world. To make sure you don't miss any sights, you can use one of the many hop-on-hop-off bus services or explore the city by bike. One of the most famous buildings both of Singapore and worldwide is the Marina Bay Sands with a 346 m long roof terrace and an observation deck with a spectacular view of the skyline.
The shopping paradise Waterfront Promenade, the landmark of the city Singapore Merlion, as well as the Singapore Flyer, the highest Ferris wheel in the world, are worth a visit.
In Singapore, you also have the chance to visit the world's first wildlife park for nocturnal animals. During the night safari, you will get to see more than 115 species in their natural environment under the moonlight. This unique experience costs only €25 including train ticket to get there and access to interactive shows.
You stay for €13 in an eight-bed dorm in the centrally located The Inn Crowd Backpackers' Hostel.
Kuala Lumpur
You’ll travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur by bus for €15.
Malaysia's capital and largest city has a lot to offer. The Petronas Twin Towers are a must see. This landmark is probably the most famous building in the city and currently the highest twin tower in the world. You can look far across the metropolis from the Skybridge and Observation Deck on the 86th floor.
Those who prefer a view of the skyline including the Petronas Twin Towers should visit the Helipad Lounge. The helicopter landing platform on the roof of a skyscraper is converted into a bar in the evening. Entry to this spectacular viewpoint in open air is free and a visit is a great experience especially during sunset.
The Kuala Lumpur Tower, the KLCC Park and the National Museum are also worth seeing. Shopping centres like Central Market and Plaza Sungei Wang make the hearts of all shopaholics race with excitement.
The Batu Caves are located on the northern outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. Several Hindu temples and altars are located inside the 400-million-year-old limestone caves. The huge 100-metre-high main cave is a popular place of pilgrimage and prayer for believers. The best way to explore the impressive grounds is with a personal guide. A half-day tour through the old cave formation where you can experience Hinduism up close costs about €20 including transport.
An overnight stay in the centrally located Dorms Kl Hostel costs only €6 in a six-bed dorm.
Tanah Rata
We continue the journey by bus for €8 to Tanah Rata, the largest and most famous place in the Cameron Highlands.
Located on a mountain range at an altitude of 1,500 to 2,000 meters, Tanah Rata is known for its lush green tea plantations. The temperatures here rarely rise above 20 degrees Celsius, guaranteeing a pleasant climate throughout the whole year, which is particularly suitable for the cultivation of tea, strawberries, and many other plants.
Rent a scooter and explore the 'Green Heart' of Malaysia. You will be impressed by the dreamlike scenery of green hills and dense jungle. Whilst you’re there, why not try local delicacies in one of the numerous tea houses and strawberry farms, or perhaps visit the viewing platforms with a view over the huge BOH plantation?
In Tanah Rata you can stay overnight in the Hikers Sleep Port from €7 (eight-bed dorm).
Penang
Next stop is Penang. A bus takes you from Tanah Rata for €7 over the Penang Bridge directly to the island.
Penang is one of the most popular destinations in Malaysia. The heart of the huge island is the capital, George Town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site particularly known for its lively street art scene. You can see numerous colourful works of art during a walk through the old town. You will also see countless Chinese temples and the so-called Love Lane, a backpacker street with hip bars and restaurants where you can meet like-minded people for a few drinks. You can also walk through the botanical gardens to Penang Hill, from where you have a great view over George Town.
The rest of the island offers many sights, small bays, and dream beaches, which are best be explored by motorbike. If you want to have a cheap stay in Penang, then you should stay in Batu Ferringhi. You can relax peacefully on the endless white sandy beaches or try out some water sports like jet-skiing, parasailing or windsurfing.
We also recommend you to visit the legendary Nightmarket as well as the Baba Guest House, where you can stay in a single room for only €14.
Langkawi
The journey continues to Langkawi. A ferry takes you from Penang for about €12 to the main island of the archipelago of the same name.
The 99 limestone islands are one of the highlights of any trip to Malaysia and are a true natural paradise with dense rainforest, sandy beaches, rock formations and waterfalls. The colourful underwater world around the islands offers numerous possibilities for diving and snorkelling trips. It is also worth visiting the Langkawi Cable Car and a trip to Laman Padi Rice Garden.
You can also relax on Black Sand Beach or in numerous Hot Springs. The popular Two Peace House is located just two minutes from Pantai Cenang Beach, offering island shopping or fishing tours and a jet ski rental service.
An overnight stay in a four-bed dorm costs only €7. You’ll fly from Langwaki via Kuala Lumpur back home, carrying countless memories of your unforgettable journey with you.