Kuala Lumpur, the capital and the largest city of Malaysia, is known for being a shopping mecca and home to the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers–the Petronas Twin Towers. More commonly known as KL, this city serves as the gateway to the rest of Malaysia. It’s rich with numerous natural wonders and architectural landmarks, various places to sample traditional Malay cuisine, and many other destinations worth visiting for every type of tourist.
Eyeing to explore KL soon? Let this be your guide to the best places to travel in Kuala Lumpur!
Fast Facts
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- Currency: Malaysian ringgit (RM)
- Languages: Malay, Chinese (Mandarin), English, Tamil
- Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport
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Getting Around Kuala Lumpur
Trains are the most widely used mode of transportation in Kuala Lumpur. They have three transit lines namely the LRT, MRT, and a monorail line. There are dedicated transit lines to and from the KL International Airport–the KLIA Ekspres, a nonstop high-speed service connecting the airport to the city center, and KL Transit, which stops at every station along the line. Fare is paid via a reloadable MyRapid card or Touch N Go card, or you can also purchase single-ride tickets.
Buses and taxis are also available in KL. But if you prefer convenient rides, you may opt for a private transfer or a car rental instead.
Connectivity Options
You can stay connected in Malaysia by renting portable travel WiFi, getting a 4G SIM card, or an eSIM. Free WiFi is available in most public spaces in KL too.
Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur
From boutique hotels to luxury 5-star accommodations, you’ll find the perfect accommodation for you in Kuala Lumpur.
citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang Hotel
citizenM is far different from your ordinary, run-off-the-mill hotels–it’s quirky, tech-savvy, and delightful. To navigate around, you have to use their free app that lets you book a room, browse the menu, adjust lights, control temperature, and even check in or out. Meanwhile, their accommodation is ideal for solo travelers or couples as they only have one room type with an XL bed for adults to share.
Location: citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang Hotel, 128 Jalan Pudu, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: https://www.citizenm.com/hotels/asia/kuala-lumpur/kuala-lumpur-bukit-bintang-hotel
Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Stay within downtown Kuala Lumpur and access the nearest MRT stations and tourist attractions when you book accommodation at Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre. This luxury hotel is near the Petronas Twin Tower and shopping mall, making it convenient for travelers who prefer easy access to leisure activities. Besides its well-appointed rooms, guests enjoy the hotel’s in-house restaurants like Sedap for international cuisine, Chinese food at Red, and Japanese fare at Enju.
Location: 4, Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: https://www.pullman-kualalumpur-citycentre.com/
Sunway Hotel Pyramid
Sunway Hotel Pyramid is a top choice for business and leisure travelers visiting Kuala Lumpur. It’s one of the trifectas of hotels in the city with easy access to key areas for recreation such as the Sunway Pyramid shopping mall and Sunway Lagoon theme park. It’s also a few minute-drive away from the airport and the city center. Aside from nearby attractions and must-try restaurants, guests love the comfort each of their stylish and spacious suites provides.
Location: Persiaran Lagoon, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Website: https://www.sunwayhotels.com/sunway-resort
Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur
Sample the best of Malaysian cuisine in these foodie destinations within Kuala Lumpur!
Limapulo: Baba Can Cook
Specializing in Nyonya cuisine and laksa, Limapulo is the restaurant to go to for a sumptuous feast in KL. More popularly known for having the best-tasting laksa in the city according to foodies, Limapulo is a place that can give you a taste of authentic Malaysian cooking. Aside from laksa, make sure to order their Nonya chicken dishes–especially if you like your food spicy!
Location: 50 Jalan Doraisamy, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Facebook: https://facebook.com/Babacancook/
Atmosphere 360
For a better Malaysian cuisine experience, go for the buffet. Indulge in local dishes of Malaysia at Atmosphere 360 in KL Tower, and savor the goodness of gourmet food while dining at a revolving restaurant. Available for lunch, high tea, or dinner, Atmosphere 360’s buffet lets you taste both local and international cuisine with a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur’s landmarks and city views.
Location: TH02, Menara Kuala Lumpur, 2, Jalan Puncak, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: https://atmosphere360.com.my/
Village Park
Two words: Nasi lemak. This Malaysian staple food made with coconut rice, anchovies, egg, cucumber slices, and roasted peanuts and served with sambal (chili sauce) is one dish you mustn’t miss in Kuala Lumpur. Ask where you can get the best nasi lemak in town, and most people would point you to Village Park, a homey restaurant serving Halal-certified Malaysian favorites. Order their bestselling nasi lemak, which comes with crispy chicken that’s very tasty inside and out.
Location: 5, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/villageparkofficial/
What to Do in Kuala Lumpur
Don’t miss these activities you can do as you tour around KL on your trip!
Batu Caves and Cultural Group Tour
Get moving and explore Kuala Lumpur’s cultural sites! From strolling along the city’s most vibrant neighborhood to climbing the Batu Caves stairs, shopping in Chinatown, and visiting the Thean Hou Temple and Malaysia’s National Mosque, you’ll have a wonderful and immersive experience of seeing KL’s best attractions in just one day.
Historical Malacca Sightseeing Tour
What was once an international trading center, Malacca is now a tourist destination where you can learn about its fascinating history through a sightseeing tour. Visit famous attractions like St. Peter’s Church Chinatown, A’Famosa Porto de Santiago, Straits of Malacca, and more on this cultural tour.
Sunway Lagoon
Known as Malaysia’s premiere multi-park destination, Sunway Lagoon is a place for adrenaline junkies and adventure lovers. Having more than 90 attractions in its six parks, guests would need an entire day to explore all the fun rides in this theme park. Aside from a variety of spots to enjoy, there’s also a hotel next door called Sunway Resort Hotel and Spa. They also hold events and performances that families can enjoy.
Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur Tower Observation Deck
Witness Kuala Lumpur’s mesmerizing views via the KL Tower observation deck! Get better views at the glass cube called Sky Box, or choose to see the sights at the open-air Sky Deck. During the nighttime, you can also see the Petronas Towers light up which emits a dreamy glow. Don’t miss this attraction where you can best admire Kuala Lumpur city with a 360-degree view.
Location: Menara Kuala Lumpur No. 2 Jalan Punchak Off, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur Night Market
After discovering all the scenic sights of Malaysia, it’s time to go shopping! Shop at the bustling night markets of Kuala Lumpur and purchase souvenirs from local sellers, drop by the Merdeka Square, or sample Malaysian snacks and hawker food as you stroll along Chinatown. You may opt to join a private tour for a more intimate and fun-filled experience.
Kuala Lumpur is home to endless attractions and experiences–find more things to do in this capital city by browsing through KKDay!
