Ready to Use Singapore Malaysia Itinerary for up to 12 Days!
Are you planning a road trip or just a side trip from Singapore to Malaysia? And you don’t know where to start or how to plan it?
The good news is that since Singapore and Malaysia are close neighbours, it makes for easy planning and in this Singapore Malaysia itinerary, we are going to show you how.
This massive itinerary will highlight where are some of the best places to visit, the best food you shouldn’t miss and lots of other useful information.
Ready to plan your trip to Singapore and Malaysia?
Tip: Read about our related Singapore articles here:
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What's covered in this post
- Number of days for your Singapore Malaysia itinerary
- Singapore Malaysia Itinerary 12 days
- Day 1: Singapore
- Day 2: Singapore
- Day 3: Singapore
- Where to stay in Singapore
- Tips for your visit to Malaysia
- How to get to Malaysia from Singapore?
- Day 4: Johor Bahru
- Day 5: Malacca
- Where to stay in Malacca
- Day 6: Port Dickson
- Day 7: Kuala Lumpur
- Day 8: Kuala Lumpur
- Day 9: Kuala Lumpur – Batu Caves and more
- Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
- Day 10-12 : Cameron Highlands, Ipoh, Penang Island
- Where to stay in Cameron Highlands
- Other great places to check out and Final Thoughts
- Logistics before visiting Singapore and Malaysia
Number of days for your Singapore Malaysia itinerary
So, first up, are you thinking what is the ideal number of days to organise a Singapore Malaysia itinerary?
Well, there is no perfect answer, and sometimes you could be restricted by the fact that you do not have enough time, or you could be just passing through the region.
It also depends on what you wish to see, for example the highlands of Cameron, or the capital city of Kuala Lumpur.
Or maybe you want to spend time on Singapore Sentosa Island, where you can visit the world famous Universal Studios.
For a very loose guideline, 4 days in Singapore and Malaysia is the minimum we would suggest.
If you have a longer time than that, then this itinerary is going to give you all the suggestions to have a memorable Singapore Malaysia vacation.
We have options for you to enjoy 5 days in Singapore and Malaysia, up to 12 days! Let’s get started with the Singapore Malaysia itinerary, shall we?
Tip: If you are intending to spend 14 full days all in Malaysia, be sure to check out this 2 week Malaysia itinerary and travel guide.
Singapore Malaysia Itinerary 12 days
Day 1: Singapore
Kicking things off in Singapore, Day 1 is when you arrive at Changi International Airport in the green city and what better way than to visit one of the most iconic green spaces in Singapore?
Yes, that’s right, we are talking about Gardens by the Bay, situated in the Marina Bay area.
101 hectares of greenery covering this park, its highlights are the futuristic Supertree and Flower Domes that lies in the heart of its grounds.
It is almost like entering another world and in the evenings from 7-8pm, relax and enjoy a stunning light show with a medley of music that illuminates the night sky.
I want to visit Gardens by the Bay
After a fun few hours in the gardens, make your way over the Merlion Park, where you can spend some time taking photos of this half fish half lion statue that is a famous landmark in Singapore.
If you have the budget and time, try out the river cruises that takes you along the Singapore River, once a fulcrum of trading activities in Singapore, and remains an important part of our nation.
Sailing on the traditional bumboats is one of the best ways to get a clear and unblocked view of the Marina Bay area, make sure to try it out!
I want to go on a River Cruise
Make your way back to the Marina Bay area, where you can cool down in the mall of Marina Bay Sands, a luxury hotel which was the filming location of Crazy Rich Asians.
Over here, you can drool over some of the top designer boutiques, feast on some of the best restaurants or try your luck at the casino.
If panoramic views are your interest, make sure to get right up to the SkyPark Observation Deck, where you can get the best views of the entire bay area as well as look out into the concrete jungle of the business district.
Tip: One nice option is to consider getting the Singapore Tourist Pass, which gives you unlimited travel on public transport
Day 2: Singapore
Today we explore one of the beloved neighbourhoods of Singapore: Tiong Bahru estate.
This is one of the oldest residential estates in Singapore, dating back to the 1930s, and today it is thriving as a hotspot for hipster cafes and awesome food.
Take a nice slow walk around the area surrounding the Tiong Bahru Hawker Centre, before settling down for some excellent local fare.
Make sure not to miss out some of the cafes here, and we recommend that you check out Flock Cafe and Forty Hands.
Flock Cafe
Address: 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-25, Singapore 162078
Opening Hours: 8am – 6pm daily
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlockCafeSpore/
Forty Hands
Address: 78 Yong Siak Street, #01-12, Singapore 163078
Opening Hours: 7.30am – 5.30pm daily
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fortyhands/
Moving on, it is time to visit 3 different areas that are ethnically diverse, and represents the 3 largest ethnic groups in Singapore, namely the Chinese, Malays and Indians.
Start off at Chinatown, which is a short bus ride away from Tiong Bahru, and hit the streets and explore some of the coolest street art as well as learn about the heritage of Chinatown at the Chinatown Heritage Centre.
If you are in the mood, sign up for a walking tour to get a better understanding.
Grab your discounted tickets here!
From the heart of Chinatown, board the MRT at the underground station and 3 stops later, alight at Little India MRT Station.
In this neighbourhood, you will find a collection of all things India, mish mashed with local practices, and a colourful mixture of sights and sounds.
Check out the Indian Heritage Centre before walking down the streets of Little India.
Indulge in some of the best Indian food, our recommendation being Gandhi Restaurant.
Gandhi Restaurant
Address: 31 Chander Rd, 219538
Opening hours: 11am – 4pm & 6pm – 11pm
Consider going on a walking tour to learn all the little secrets and history of this vibrant area.
Grab your discounted tickets here!
The last place on today’s schedule is Kampong Glam, which is merely a 20 minutes walk away across the Rochor River.
It is here that you can check out the grand Masjid Sultan, and wander through the tiny alleys to discover hidden gems. Lining the streets are independent shops selling everything from designer clothes to old school textile merchants eager to show you their latest fabrics.
When you stop for a break, make sure not to miss teh sarbat, pulled tea with milk mixed with ginger. You can try it out at Bhai Sarbat Stall, which has operated since 1977, or read their story here.
Be warned though, this little hole in the wall shop is very popular, and you are likely to see queues here, but it is all worth the wait.
Bhai Sarbat Stall
Address: 21 Baghdad Street, Singapore 199660
Operating Hours: 6-12am daily
Day 3: Singapore
In your last day here in Singapore, take the time to check out the Civic district, which includes some of the best museums in Singapore.
Not only can you learn about Singapore’s past, you will be glad to go on this path to see some of the most beautiful architecture that Singapore is famous for.
Start out with the National Gallery, an arts museum which was converted from the former Supreme Court and City Hall, and opened to the public in 2015.
Walk along the Padang for the best views of this imposing building, which was considered one of the best works of architect Frank Dorrington Ward.
Continue in the direction of the river and you will find yourself at the Asian Civilisations Museum, which curates collections from all across the region. It is also here where you can find the statue of Sir Stamford Raffles, standing proudly as the founding father of Singapore 200 years ago.
Next, cross the Anderson Bridge and check out Fullerton Hotel, a former military installation turned into Post Office, and now transformed into a leading luxury hotel.
Before the day ends, take a short walk over to One Raffles Place and get up to One Altitude, the highest alfresco bar in the world.
Where to stay in Singapore
There are lots of accommodation options here in Singapore, from backpacker hostels all the way up to super luxury hotels that costs over $10000 a night!
You can jump over to our article on the best places to stay in Singapore based on your interest too!
To help in this Singapore itinerary, we recommend the following hotels based on their proximity to the sights and provide a few options for budget, mid range and luxury accommodation.
Budget Accommodation in Singapore
Nestled right in the heart of Chinatown is the Heritage Hostel.
The location is unbeatable and you have access to some of the best food in Singapore!
All rooms are air conditioned (must have in Singapore), and comes with free WiFi.
If you wish to prepare your own food, there is a shared kitchen and microwave is available in every room.
Book your room at Heritage Hostel now!
Another option to consider is the Atlantis Pod @ Bugis. With such a cool name, are they up to scratch?
First of all, they are located along Tan Quee Lan Street, well known to foodies.
Free Wifi and air conditioning is found in every room and is just a stone’s throw from the nearby MRT Station Bugis.
Walking 10 minutes takes you to Kampong Glam, and the Civic district is just around the corner too.
Every room is fitted with a personal reading light, electrical socket, a hanger and a fold-down table. Bathroom facilities are shared and include free towels and toiletries.
They have outlets in Little India and Chinatown too!
Book your room at Atlantis Pods @ Bugis now!
Book your room at Atlantis Pods @ Little India now!
Book your room at Atlantis Pods @ Chinatown now!
Mid Range Accommodation in Singapore
Another gem found in Chinatown is the Ann Siang House. This beautifully restored heritage shophouse is just a short walk from the centre of Chinatown and has access to restaurants, bars and places of interest all within walking distance.
In each room, you will find a flat-screen Smart TV, a Tivoli Bluetooth speaker and a complimentary minibar.
Also, a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, induction cooker, refrigerator and kitchenware is available to you at no extra cost.
The en suite bathroom comes with a rain shower, a hairdryer and Bamford London toiletries.
Book your room at Ann Siang House now!
Still looking for a great mid range accommodation option? Look no further than the One Farrer Hotel.
Staying here gives you easy access to the nearby Little India, and with the train station right at its doorstep, this hotel gives you unbeatable value.
Contained in each room is a flat-screen TV, personal safe, minibar and coffee/tea making facilities.
All en suite bathrooms come with rain showers and handheld showers.
Meals are available on site and Mustafa Centre, one of Singapore’s top 24 hour shopping mall is just 400 metres away.
Book your room at One Farrer Hotel now!
Luxury Accommodation in Singapore
There are so many reasons to stay in the Marina Bay Sands, and indeed this iconic hotel has become one of the most sought after accommodation in Singapore.
It is situated right in the heart of the Civic District, giving you easy access to numerous sights and attractions.
The hotel in itself has a plethora of services to keep you entertained, and certainly provides a level of luxury to the traveller seeking such comforts.
Don’t miss the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, the excellent restaurants and the ArtScience Museum.
Each room comes with flat-screen cable TV with international channels. Admire the panoramic views of the Singapore skyline with the floor-to-ceiling windows.
An electric kettle with Grand Jasmine tea and bedroom slippers are provided in all rooms. En suite bathrooms include shower facilities and free toiletries.
Book your room at Marina Bay Sands now!
They say you cannot go wrong with Ritz Carlton, and indeed it is the leading luxury hotel here in Singapore.
Perfectly located in the Civic District, yet in a corner that offers privacy and quiet, the Ritz gives you the perfect blend of both luxury and convenience.
Walking distance to some of the top spots in Singapore and with great views of the bayfront, this is premium accommodation at its best.
Each air-conditioned room comes equipped with a wall-mounted cable TV, walk-in closet and a marble bathroom that includes a rain shower.
Make sure to at least opt for the Club rooms that gives you entry to the Club Lounge where you can enjoy daily culinary presentations, and limousine service to places in the vicinity.
Book your room at Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore now!
Tips for your visit to Malaysia
Let’s get this out in the open quickly: Malaysia is an Islamic country, meaning most of the population are Muslims.
It is important to be respectful to them and their religion, especially when visiting places of worship or or significance cultural importance.
Our advice: pack a scarf in your day pack. You will be surprised how versatile it can be.
Most Malaysians are incredibly friendly and tolerant, and you should find it extremely easy to converse with them.
While English is not the number one language, most people,
especially in the larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, are able to hold a conversation with you.
Take it a notch further by learning a few words in Bahasa Melayu.
Bear in mind that at all times, you should exercise as much common sense and not reveal or show off your valuables or money.
Petty crimes are not uncommon and can spoil your holiday if you are not careful.
How to get to Malaysia from Singapore?
In planning this Singapore Malaysia itinerary, one of the most important parts is getting to Malaysia from Singapore.
What are some of the best ways to do that? There are a few points to take note of, namely:
- Budget
- Number of places you want to visit
- Where you are flying off from
The nearest town to Singapore is Johor Bahru, or commonly known as JB, which is right across from Singapore.
2 checkpoints connect the 2 countries, one in Woodlands, while the other is at Tuas.
There are many direct flights between Singapore and some of its major cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Check out our Resources page to find the right flights for you.
In the following, we are going to dive in to the options available to you.
Rental car
Driving requirements
Depending on the amount of time and flexibility you require, renting a car can be the best option for you. Nothing beats a road trip!
First things first, driving licence requirements.
Frankly speaking, this is something that is pretty hard to research and there doesn’t seem to be conclusive information on the requirements for foreigners.
With that said, our advice is to get an International Driving Permit and carry it along with you together with your home country driving licence, wherever in the world you wish to drive.
The cost is negligible and can save you from a lot of unnecessary troubles.
Where to rent a car?
Well, renting from Singapore is definitely an option, but a quick check online will tell you that it makes more sense to rent one in Malaysia instead.
Here is a quick comparison:
- 5 door, Automatic
- Ford Focus
- SGD 160 per day (with surcharge)
- 5 door, Automatic
- Proton Persona
- SGD 59 per day (no surcharge)
While the cars are different and possibly in different categories, the gap is significant, especially if you intend to spend quite a few days on the road. Rather spend that extra cash on a great food or fun activity isn’t it?
So where should you rent your vehicle then?
The following are some options, and the great thing is that you can pick up the vehicle easily after crossing immigration.
Make your booking easily on their website.
Take note that if you return the vehicle in another city, there will be a surcharge.
Wahdah, location at Caltex gas station right outside the checkpoint
Hertz (SimeDarby), location at Puteri Pacific JB
Europcar, location at Baguss City Hotel
Or simply use Rentalcars to book your car where you can consider all the options in one portal.
Flights
As Singapore is a major aviation hub in the region, there are a number of flight options for you to fly into Malaysia.
Flights are generally reasonably priced (avoid public holidays) and takes less than 2 hours to reach your destination.
Here are the Malaysian cities you can fly into from Singapore direct: (not including cities in East Malaysia)
- Kuala Lumpur (Capital)
- Penang
- Ipoh
- Langkawi
- Kota Bahru
Check out the flight tickets over here at SkyScanner. This option is suitable for you if your intention is more geared towards one particular city, or alternatively, you can fly into one of them and pick up a rental car to explore the area around it.
Train
The main railway line in Malaysia is called KTM, and to access it you need to make your way into JB first.
And from JB Sentral, you can get your ticket to head further up north towards other cities.
Train travel takes you to most of the major cities and the plus side is you get to swing pass some of the villages and it is super cheap!
Look for your tickets here on KTM website.
For us, the best way to really explore Malaysia is by car, and hence the itinerary that follows will be based on that.
Day 4: Johor Bahru
So we start the day off by making our way to Johor Bahru.
Since we are going to rent a car there, we will take a train from Singapore to JB Sentral. You can check out the tickets here.
Get to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint (not the MRT Station!) which is actually located right next to the Woodlands Checkpoint.
The easiest way to get here is to take bus service 853 from across the Woodlands MRT. Check with the staff at the control station if you are in doubt.
The smooth journey takes about 5 minutes and brings you to JB Sentral railway station.
Tip: Make sure you buy tickets online as this is a popular option for day-trippers and remember to validate your ticket at the ticket office at Woodlands Train Checkpoint.
What is there to do in JB then?
Well, to start off, you can explore the food options around the area. There are quite a few malls as well as shophouses along the streets.
- Our recommendation: Restoran Ya Wang for its braised duck.
- Address: 28 Jalan Segget, 80000 JB
Next up, check out the nearby Jalan Dhoby that is only a few minutes walk from JB Sentral.
Here you will find some of the best cafes around to enjoy a bit of peace and quiet with a cappuccino in hand.
We are not here just for coffee though, so by now you should be ready to pick up your car and start moving!
Here are some suggestions on where you can go:
- Premium Outlet shopping
- Paintball
- Get a massage
- Visit Legoland
- Play golf
- Supper at Jalan Pingai
Where to Stay in Johor Bahru
There are no shortage of options here, and here are the 3 best hotels for all budgets!
Budget accommodation in JB
The apartments at Holi Suasana Suite offers fully air-conditioned units and each unit has a flat-screen TV, a living room with a sofa, a well-equipped kitchen with a dining area, and a private bathroom with bidet, a hairdryer and free toiletries. Plus, a microwave and fridge are also provided, as well as a kettle.
Book your room at Holi Suasana Suite now!
Mid range accommodation in JB
Capri by Fraser is built on a superb location and has all the creature comforts you need.
The units come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a microwave, a kettle, a bidet, a hairdryer and a desk.
With a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries, rooms at the hotel also provide guests with a city view, and every room has a seating area.
Book your room at Capri by Fraser now!
You would be expecting top of the line service from Doubletree by Hilton, one of the best hotels in this area.
Each of the spacious rooms and suites are fitted with air conditioning and a 40-inch flat-screen satellite TV.
A personal safe and tea/coffee making facilities are also available.
The best part is, a pillow menu is included! And all the stylish bathroom comes with premium toiletries and plush bathrobes.
Book your room at Doubletree by Hilton now!
Day 5: Malacca
Start the day off early and drive 40 minutes to Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest.
This national park is a great place to enjoy a hike up a safe and tranquil forest trail. Be rewarded with fresh air and a lovely waterfall during your walk.
Continue on driving to Malacca, which is about 2.5 hours away.
If you have the time, we recommend that you make a side trip to Batu Pahat, which is a quaint little town along the way to Malacca.
- Check out the Lovers Bridge and pick up some delicious banana cake at Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory.
- 13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
Upon reaching Malacca, or Melaka as it is commonly known, check in to your hotel before the next activity.
Before the day ends, you can make your way to Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple, the oldest temple in Malaysia of its kind and admire the unique architecture behind it.
In the evening, take a walk along Jonker Street, a place synonymous with Melaka and food.
It is the centre of Chinatown in Melaka and if you are there on Friday or Saturday, you are in for a treat as the night market comes to live and it turns into a boisterous and vibrant street.
Make sure to pick out an item or two from the antique shops here!
Where to stay in Malacca
Malacca is a pretty small town, but it does have a good selection of accommodation available. Here are our top recommendations.
Budget accommodation in Melaka
One of the most popular options is Hatten Place Melaka. Boasting an infinity pool, 2 dining options and well-equipped business facilities.
The hotel is set atop Elements Mall, and it offers modern living with free WiFi throughout.
Guests enjoy scheduled city shuttle and around the clock security.
Book your room at Hatten Place Melaka now!
Mid range accommodation in Melaka
Swiss-Garden Hotel overlooks the historical Melaka River, and onsite you will find 2 Olympic-size infinity pools, a tennis court and free WiFi access.
It gives you direct access to the The Shore Shopping Mall and Shore Oceanarium Complex.
Enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and Melaka River, rooms at are elegantly furnished and fully air-conditioned.
Rooms include a balcony, an en suite bathroom, a DVD player and a comfortable seating area.
Book your room at Swiss-Garden Hotel now!
Luxury accommodation in Melaka
Beautiful and exquisitely designed, the Liu Men Melaka is set in a restored shophouse and enjoys the perfect location, being in close proximity to Jonker Street and Cheng Hoon Teng Temple.
Expect to receive outstanding service from the staff for whom nothing was too much trouble when making their guests welcome!
Book your room at Liu Men Melaka now!
Day 6: Port Dickson
In the morning, before you set up to the next destination, be sure to visit Stadthuys.
This is one of the most famous of all landmarks in Malacca, and is believed to be the oldest surviving Dutch building in the East.
Swing over to the Christ Church, undeniably the biggest draw to Melaka. It was built in the 1740s, and still stands strong today in the heart of Melaka.
When you are ready to depart Melaka, take the coastal highway and drive on for about 1.5 hours.
Port Dickson, as the name suggests, is situated along the coastline of Malaysia and is home to beach resorts and draws large numbers of nature and food lovers.
Check out these attractions while you are here in Port Dickson:
- Army Museum Port Dickson
- Cape Rachado Lighthouse
- Tanjung Tuan Beach
- Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve
- Saujana Beach
- Wan Loong Chinese Temple
Where to stay in Port Dickson
Although Port Dickson is a small town, with its beaches stretching only 18km, it does have a fair share of comfortable accommodation options.
However, for the sake of novelty and how cool it looks, we are going to recommend the Lexus Hibiscus Port Dickson. Why is that so?
In Dubai, they have the Palm Islands, a collection of stunning man-made floating islands, but here in Port Dickson, they have built something similar that resembles a hibiscus!
Book your room at Lexus Hibiscus Port Dickson now!
Day 7: Kuala Lumpur
After a day at Port Dickson, it is time to pack your bags for the Malaysia capital Kuala Lumpur.
Located just 1.5 hours away, Kuala Lumpur (also known as KL) is a diversified city, mixing the historical with the modern, and there are great areas to explore in it.
But before hitting the capital, consider dropping by the Sepang International Circuit, which is along the way to KL.
This racing track used to be one of the stops of the Formula 1 Grand Prix competition, but held its last race in 2017.
Today, it is still a hosting ground for many motor racing events, and even if you are not a spectator or fan, you can still drop by to try your hands on the go-kart circuit or paintball.
Pretty cool side trip!
For the rest of the day in KL, check out the following places:
- Petronas Twin Towers
- Petronas Bridge
- Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)
- Petaling Street for dinner
Petaling Street is also known as the Chinatown of KL.
Filled to the brim with colourful shops and outstanding street food, this is a must visit to get a good sense of the vibe and energy in KL.
- Must eat: Wong Ah Wah Chicken Wings
- Address: 16, Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Day 8: Kuala Lumpur
Today is going to be about green spaces and space!
Take an easy drive to Perdana Botanical Gardens right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur! Its location is smack in the middle of the city and is one of the best green spaces in the country.
You can easily spend half a day or more here going through the Forest Tree Collection, Exotic Species Collection, Deer Park and more!
Although the sweltering heat is gonna keep you hot and sticky, there is a cafe for you to relax here and gazebos are well spread out across the park for you to take a breather.
Within the same park, there are lots of other cool things to check out, and as we mentioned earlier, learn more about space stuff in the National Planetarium.
Admission is only RM12 for adults and RM8 for kids below 12. Great spot for the kids to learn!
For the rest of the day, check out the area along Jalan Raja Chulan. Here is what you can check out:
- Canopy Walk (don’t miss this! Part of the Eco Park)
- KL Forest Eco Park
- Muzium Telekom
- Cathedral of St John
- St Andrews Presbyterian Church
- Sky Deck KL Tower
- KL Upside Down House
Day 9: Kuala Lumpur – Batu Caves and more
Although Kuala Lumpur is the capital and main commercial hub, there are some really cool nature stuff near it.
Today, you can enjoy a leisurely drive early in the morning to Batu Caves, which is only about 40 minutes outside of the city.
Here you will find an imposing statue of the Lord Murugan, but the main attraction here is the caves.
Make sure to dress modestly since this is a religious ground before exploring the limestone caves.
After exploring Batu Caves, it is time for the highlight of the KL itinerary: white water rafting in Malaysia!
There are a number of tour operators and you can choose to go for the one that goes down Sungei Selangor (Selangor River), which is about 70 km away from KL.
Check out the operators online and make sure to ask if you can use your own transport and if they can offer some discounts for that.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
Budget accommodation in Kuala Lumpur
Located in Chow Kit, which is great for city walks, shopping and great food, the Anggun Luxury Suite @ KLCC provides unbeatable value.
Ideal location, just a short distance to the Twin Towers and each room provides great views across the city.
Since it is an apartment, amenities such as air conditioning
and private bathroom with bidet, a hairdryer and free toiletries are standard.
The rooms also feature a flat-screen TV, a living room with a sofa, a well-equipped kitchen with a dining area, plus dishwasher, a microwave and fridge.
Book your room at Anggun Luxury Suite now!
Mid range accommodation in Kuala Lumpur
Sitting in the preferred neighbourhood of Bukit Bintang, where you are never far from the action, the Tribeca Serviced Suites Bukit Bintang is an excellent option for groups.
The apartments have 2 bedrooms as standard, and contains a balcony, a fully equipped kitchenette and even washing machine, perfect for those of you following this itinerary.
If you are worried about not being able to keep fit on the road, the great news is that this apartment comes with a fitness centre and a garden, so remember to pack those workout clothes.
Book your room at Tribeca Serviced Suites Bukit Bintang now!
Luxury accommodation in Kuala Lumpur
No shortage of luxury options in KL, as it is now a thriving metropolis and attracts lots of people who seek high end accommodation here.
Top of our list is the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, which is right smack in the city center.
Covered in floor-to-ceiling windows, you can easily take in views of the park and the city. A coffee machine and 42-inch flat-screen TV are included.
The hotel is also home to 3 fantastic restaurants for your dining pleasure, or you can choose to walk to the nearby Pavilion Shopping Mall and Petronas Twin Towers to unwind.
If you are only searching for a Singapore Malaysia itinerary for 10 days, we suggest you add one night here and head back to Singapore or depart from KL.
Book your room at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur now!
Day 10-12 : Cameron Highlands, Ipoh, Penang Island
We think that by now you probably get the point that Malaysia is definitely worth exploring, and we would totally agree.
Here on the tenth day, prepare to leave the capital and head further north up the Malaysian Peninsula.
Let’s start with Cameron Highlands, a 3 hour drive from KL, up an idyllic hill, where you are transported into a different world from the ground.
This is one place that you do not expect in a tropical country like Malaysia, as the temperature here rarely reaches 25 degrees Celsius.
On average, it is a cool 17-18 degrees Celsius, hence offering a fantastic respite from the heat.
Up here, you can find lush landscapes, strawberry farms and get close to nature, possibly sighting some of the wildlife that inhabits it.
Here are activities that you should not miss:
- Kok Lim Strawberry farm
- Mrs Robertson’s Rose Garden
- Time Tunnel Museum
- One for Golfers: Sultan Ahmad Shah Golf Club
- Lata Iskandar Waterfall
- Explore Mossy Forest
Where to stay in Cameron Highlands
Budget accommodation in Cameron Highlands
Super simple and no frills guest house Fathers Guesthouse Resort is the best budget option for Cameron Highlands.
Located not far from the Orang Asli village, it comes with air conditioned rooms with en suite bathrooms.
Wifi is included and you can soak in the sun in the garden area.
Book your room at Fathers Guesthouse Resort now!
Mid Range accommodation in Cameron Highlands
Do Chic In B&B is a bed and breakfast just 850 m from Tanah Rata town, and gives you views of the Jasar hills and mountains.
There is a shared lounge and a helpful tour desk if you are interested in guided services.
There are a few room types available here. Rooms are all located on the second floor and gives you views of the mountain.
Free WiFi is available in common areas (living room & dining area).
Rooms are breakfast inclusive and there are food options for Vegans, Vegetarians, Gluten-Free and Lactose-Free guests.
Book your room at Do Chic in B&B now!
Luxury accommodation in Cameron Highlands
Frankly, there isn’t really a whole lot of luxury options in Cameron Highlands since they are are more catered towards family on a short stay and people exploring nature and the likes.
However, if you do want to stay in style, you should definitely look at The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands.
It is a really beautiful country house inspired by English heritage.
Be awed by the wooden ceiling beams and four-poster beds.
Each of the rooms has antique pieces on display, such as an antique table fan and a rotary dial telephone.
Book your room at The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands now!
Moving on to Ipoh, which is about 2 hours drive from Cameron Highlands.
Ipoh is well known for its cuisine and it is widely said that because the water comes from the hills, the food they make turns out much better too.
Not sure about that but who cares, the food is excellent!
A little side note here too: the ladies in Ipoh are really fair, maybe because of the water too!
Ipoh can be done within a couple of hours, which means that you likely do not need accommodation here. If however you wish to spend more time here, a 2 days Ipoh itinerary should do the job!
And since we are on the topic of Ipoh, here are our recommendations on the best things to eat and the best places to find them:
Hakka Mee
Paris Restaurant
Address: 190, Jalan Sultan Iskandar, Taman Jubilee, 31650 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: 7am to 11:30am
Snow Beer
Kafe Yoon Wah
7, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 31650 Ipoh, Negeri Perak
Opening hours:
Monday: 3:30pm to 12am
Tuesday – Friday: 12pm to 2pm and 3:30pm to 12am
Saturday: 12pm to 2pm and 3:30pm to 2:30am
Sunday: 3:30pm to 2:30am
Beansprout Chicken Rice
Cowan Street Ayam Tauge & Koitiau Restaurant
Address: 44, Jalan Raja Ekram, Kampung Jawa, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday – Closed
Thursday to Sunday – 6pm to 10pm
Tau Fu Fa (Soya bean curd)
Woong Kee Bean Curd Bercham Ipoh
291, Jalan Bercham, Taman Desa Kencana, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: 12pm to 10pm
After you have had your fill, start the 2 hours drive up to Penang Island.
To get more in depth information on planning for a Penang trip, check out our post on the Best 3 Days Penang Itinerary.
Penang state consists of 2 parts, the mainland and the island, where the capital city is found.
Penang is our favourite place in Malaysia and you will find out why.
The people are very warm and friendly, and the cuisine is simply outstanding.
As you drive through the mainland part of the state, you will reach Penang Bridge, which used to be the only connection to the island.
It is the second longest in Malaysia and fifth longest in SouthEast Asia!
Here are the things you should not miss out in Penang for the next 2 days:
- Kek Lok Si Temple
- Penang Peranakan Museum
- Funicular ride up Penang Hill
- Hike at Penang National Park
- The Blue Mansion
- Beach at Batu Ferringhi
- Batu Ferringhi Night Market
- Escape Theme Park
- Take photos of street art in GeorgeTown
- Tropical Spice Garden
We have not forgotten about the wonderful food here, have you?
Here are the best things you must try out and where to get them!
Hokkien Mee
CY Choy Road Hokkien Mee
Address: 533, Jalan C.Y. Choy, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 7AM – 2:30PM (closed on Monday)
Nasi Lemak
Ali’s Nasi Lemak
Address: Jalan Lunas (Opposite PTPL College), off Burma Road, 10350 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 24 hours
Curry Mee
Air Itam Sister Curry Mee
Address: 612 T, Jalan Air Itam, Pekan Ayer Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 7:30AM-1PM (closed on Tuesday)
Oyster Omelette
New Lane Hawker Centre
Address: Lorong Baru, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 4-10PM, closed on Wednesdays
Char Koay Teow (Stir fried Glass Noodles)
Siam Road Char Koay Teow
Address: Jalan Siam, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 3pm till sold out
Duck Rice
Air Itam Pasar Duck Rice
Address: Air Itam Wet Market, Jalan Pasar, Pekan Ayer Itam, 11500 Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 8:30PM-1AM daily
Lor Bak
Kheng Pin Cafe
Address: 80, Jalan Penang, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 7AM-3PM, closed on Mondays
Apom Manis (Indian crepe)
Lebuh Chulia Apom
Address: Lebuh Chulia Night Hawker Stalls, George Town (corner Love Lane)
Opening hours: 6PM-12MN daily
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Other great places to check out and Final Thoughts
So you are still reading? Awesome!
We hope this 12 day Singapore Malaysia itinerary has helped you out and given you plenty of ideas.
3 days in Singapore may not be sufficient, so in the Singapore travel guide part you can consider some other suggestions to keep you entertained and occupied:
- Universal Studios Singapore
- Take the cable car to Sentosa Island
- Night Safari
- Singapore Zoo
- Singapore River Safari
Malaysia is pretty big and diverse and tourism seems to be under the radar, which is kind of great for us travellers.
No huge crowds and fighting for spots to take photos.
There are more places that we wish to cover in future, but for now will just be fodder for our next trip.
We will list them down here as ideas for you if you wish to alter this itinerary, or to extend your trip further.
- Langkawi Island
- Perhentian Islands
- Taman Negara
- Kuala Terengganu
- Kota Bahru
- Pangkor Island
- Kota Kinabalu (East Malaysia)
- Semporna (East Malaysia)
- Kuching (East Malaysia)
- Gunung Mulu National Park (East Malaysia)
- Bako National Park (East Malaysia)
- Miri (East Malaysia)
- One more for Golfers: Ernie Els Golf Course in Desaru!
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Logistics before visiting Singapore and Malaysia
Find cheap flights.
Air tickets are usually the bulk of your expenses. Set up an alert and snag cheap fares with Skyscanner.
Find the best accommodation.
Book a place ahead of time to get good rates. Booking.com has transparent fees and excellent rates.
Handy travel guide.
For the old school kid in you, get a travel guide book and get lost exploring the city.
Photos.
Your mobile phone can do a pretty good job, but if you need an upgrade, we recommend the Sony A6000 (US) (International)
Travel insurance.
You don’t need us to teach you to be a responsible adult, do you? Get a quote here.
Planned for you activities in Singapore.
Need a guide to show you and your group around? Lots of operators here to choose from here. You know who they are and how they are reviewed.
More resources to help you.
All other useful travel resources we use when we book our trips.