From the impressive Petronas Twin Towers to the Batu Caves, including the nicest little neighbourhoods, here’s how to spend a day in Kuala Lumpur if you are coming to Malaysia.
I suggest staying there for at least a full day because there are quite a few things to see, but you can totally go for more time there.
I’ll list here all the things to do when spending a day in Kuala Lumpur.
Start your day early to see the sunrise at the Batu Caves. You will have the place almost to yourself, only some locals will also be there to pray as well as many monkeys wandering around.
The Batu Caves are a major Hindu pilgrimage site, first developed in the late 19th century, and improved in the 1920s. This complex features a series of limestone caves and cave temples. The limestone formations here are estimated to be around 400 million years old. The main cave features a 43-meter statue of Murugan (a Hindu god of war and wisdom, the son of Shiva) and can be reached with the colorful 272 steps, painted in 2012.
Just a few rules before visiting the Batu Caves :
- Both men and women must have their knees covered, so dress accordingly (if necessary, you can borrow a sarong at the entrance).
- Wear comfy shoes for walking up the stairs, and bring water.
- Be careful not to have food in your hands the monkeys might try to steal it ! Same goes for phones and cameras, hold onto them tightly.
- Try to go early to avoid both the heat and the crowds.
- To get there, you can either take the MRT (metro) or a Grab (Asia’s version of Uber), which is easier, faster, and not much more expensive than the metro.
Entrance fee : Free
Opening hours : From 6am to 9pm daily
Next stop is the KLCC Park. It is a nice place to get a break from the heat of the city and you can enjoy as well a great view of the Petronas Twin Towers.
The Petronas Twin Towers, standing at 451,9 meters are the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers. The construction of the 88-story buildings began in 1994 and they officially opened in 1999. They truly are a symbol of the capital and Malaysia.
You can visit the Observation Deck on the 86th Floor and the skybridge as well.
Entrance fee : 20€ for non Malaysians adults, and 10€ for children.
Opening hours : From 9am to 9pm everyday except Mondays where it closes at 8pm
Bukit Bintang is a bustling shopping and entertainment district. Wether it is for its vibrant nightlife, luxury malls, or many dining options, you will find whatever you are looking for there.
If you are looking for high end shopping malls go to Pavillon of Starhill.
Food wise, head to Jalan Alor. This is one of the most renowned streets food-wise and where you’ll find the best local cuisine.
Take time to get lost in this neighbourhood because there are lots of amazing street art, especially in the street Jalan Rembia :
Located in Chinatown, is a little hidden alleyway called Kwai Chai Hong, meaning “Little Demon Alley.” Here you will find many murals depicting the everyday life in 1960s’ Chinatown.
Some of the murals are even interactive : there is a chair to sit on in front of a barber’s painting, or even a jumping rope in front of a mural of children playing on the street.
If you look around, you will notice an old lamppost standing in the corner. It was installed around 1903 and is now believed to be the only one remaining in the city.
Take also the take to visit Chinatown, the neighbourhood is very nice to wander in the little streets :
Sri Mahamariamman Temple, is one of the city’s oldest Hindu temples. It was founded in 1873, and is renowned for its colorful facade.
Entrance fee : Free
Opening hours : From 6am to 1pm and from 4pm to 9pm daily. Open from 9am to 9pm on Saturdays
Guan Di Temple, located in Chinatown, is one of the city’s oldest Chinese temples. It was founded in 1887 and is dedicated to Guan Yu, the Taoist God of War.
Entrance fee : Free
Opening hours : From 7:30am to 3:30pm daily
Built in 1888 as a wet market (marketplace selling fresh goods such as fish, meat and produce), the Central Market is today the center for Malaysian culture, arts and craft. The current Art Deco building was completed in 1937.
It is also a great place to have lunch, there are many options available in the market.
Entrance fee : Free
Opening hours : From 10am to 10pm daily
Last stop of the day before an evening stroll downtown. Head to Thean Hou Temple a bit outside of the city. It’s a 10 minute drive from Central Market.
Thean Hou Temple, built in 1987, is a stunning Chinese temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. Known for its elaborate architecture and panoramic city views, it’s a popular spot for both worship and sightseeing.
Entrance fee : Free
Opening hours : Everyday from 8am to 8pm
The Saloma Bridge, completed in 2020, is a 69-meter pedestrian bridge in Kuala Lumpur that connects Kampung Baru to the KLCC area. I would suggest taking a stroll there at night because it is illuminated with colorful LED lights at night, and offers stunning views of the Petronas Towers as well.
Menara or KL Tower is a 421-meter-tall telecommunications and broadcasting tower completed in 1995. Well known for its observation deck offering panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur, it also features a revolving restaurant.
Entrance fee : 12€ for non Malaysians adults, 8€ for children
Opening hours : Everyday from 9am to 10pm
If you are looking for a place to stay, look no further ! The Ceylonz Suites are perfectly located in downtown KL and offer great services and quality for a really advantageous price.
The biggest perk is the infinity pool located on the 37th floor. My biggest advice would be to book a hotel with a pool when you are coming to Kuala Lumpur, because between the heat and humidity you will so grateful to take a refreshing dip in between your visits !
The rooftop pool offers stunning views of the Kuala Lumpur city skyline :
That’s it for my Kuala Lumpur recommendations !
I hope this article gave you a better idea of what to expect from a day in Kuala Lumpur, it’s nice to stop by if you are coming to Malaysia !
If you plan on coming to Malaysia soon you can check out my article everything to know before going to Malaysia.
If you need a custom itinerary, you can fill this form and I’ll make your own personalised itinerary.
