The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, offers a rich heritage, beautiful architecture, colorful culture, and a thriving food scene. One of the most famous attractions here and an iconic monument is the Petronas Twin Towers, which is 451m (1480 ft) in height and features Islamic Motifs. It is a skyscraper that is clad in glass and steel and it has a sky bridge and an observation deck, which will give you an amazing view of the city. Aside from this stunning tower, Kuala Lumpur boasts weekend getaway destinations that you will surely love; from coastal towns to hillside villages, rice paddies, and grand palaces. In case you’re still not done with you’re itinerary, make sure to read our list of weekend getaways from Kuala Lumpur, and have the best holiday yet.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Pahang (from USD 34)
Reasonable pricing with value for money, but may need improvements in room facilities and service quality.
Beautiful pool and garden, spacious parking, clean air conditioning, and smart TV. Some room facilities may need improvement.
Quiet and comfortable environment nestled in a palm plantation, offering a serene hill view. However, it's far from towns and cities with limited internet coverage.
Limited dining options with no on-site restaurant, and challenges in finding nearby food and transportation. However, the staff is friendly and accommodating.
A large state in Peninsular Malaysia, Pahang features wondrous mountains, beautiful rainforests, and pristine sandy beaches. One of its most-sought-after attractions is the Tioman Island, a white sand beach which has an abundance of coral reefs. If you’re tired of the beaches, then you have to go to Cameron Highlands, which offers resorts, tea plantations, and farms. You should also see the village of Fraser’s Hill which is like an English Hamlet, which will make you feel like you’ve been transported in a different place.
Pahang is 253.5 km (157.52 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost three hours of travel time to get there.
Rock Mountain
Address: Lot PT6900(A), Kampung Sungai Ruan Pahang
25.07 km (15.6 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
2. Kuantan (from USD 46)
Located in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Kuantan is one of beautiful towns that’s rich with traditions, culture, and history. At the heart of the city, you’ll find the modern Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque, which features five domes that are beautifully adorned with blue geometric patterns and has four towering minarets. Another must-visit attraction is the seafront Taman Teruntum park, wherein you’ll find a landscape garden and a mini zoo.
Kuantan is 237.1 km (147.33 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost four hours of travel time to get there.
AC Hotel by Marriott Kuantan
Address: Jalan Teluk Sisek
177.9 km (110.6 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
3. Penang (from USD 172)
Reasonable pricing for Roxity suite at around 2400 for 4 days 3 nights.
Great facilities for kids and families, including a large pool with slides and kids' activities.
Beautiful location with ocean-facing rooms, near the beach and national park, and a short walk to town for restaurants.
Buffet breakfast with many options, great fish buffet on Saturday nights, and enjoyable Hard Rock Cafe entertainment.
In need of a short break from Kuala Lumpur? If you’re a history buff, there’s no better place to be in Malaysia than in Penang. With its kaleidoscope of culture, you’ll surely have lots of fun times discovering and learning new things. You’ll find in the center of Penang, its capital, George Town, which is a mixture of old Asia and influences of Europe, which is very evident in its architecture, arts, food, and local scene. In case you want to explore more, visit the fishing villages, the palm-fringed beaches, jungles, and farms that grow durian and nutmeg trees.
Penang is 355.2 km (220.71 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost four hours of travel time to get there.
Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Address: Batu Ferringhi Beach
256.05 km (159.1 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Bentong (from USD 985)
Bentong is popular for its ginger and being a foodie haven. It has a thriving food scene and a great source of fresh produce that draws locals and tourist alike. If you’re working for a food industry or are just an enthusiast, you’ll love joining factory tours, including the Soy sauce factory, where you’ll learn the process of fermenting soybeans to make condiments. Another is the Tofu Puff Factory which has been in the owner’s family for 100 years now. Here, you’ll learn how beans are transformed into tofu puffs.
Bentong is 68.3 km (42.44 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you more or less one hour of travel time to get there. This destination is truly worthy of a short trip away from KL.
Red House the Garden Stay in Bukit Tinggi by PLAY
Address: 2, Lot Banglo Bukit Tinggi Resort
38.61 km (24.0 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
Kuala Lumpur Tour Guide
Reka Luxshmi
Hello! I'm Reka. I love travelling and eating local food. I am a HR professional with a master's qualification in Business administration. My passion for travelling has led me to pursue my licence in tour guiding in Malaysia. Malaysia is a beautiful country with colourful & warm people and lots of local cuisines. While I still am attached to the corporate world, tour guiding usually takes ... Read more
Tours by Reka
5. Sekinchan (from USD 34)
A beachside village that features numerous rice paddies because of its fertile soil, Sekinchan is one beautiful area that offers lots of natural wonders, including being home to migratory birds like herons. As the center of the rice industry in Malaysia, you’ll also find, here, the Paddy Processing Factory that has a museum that exhibits collections about the local rice industry. Another attraction is the Nan Tian Temple, which is an elaborate shrine that sits in the town’s many rice fields.
Sekinchan is 94.9 km (58.97 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you one and a half hour of travel time to get there.
The One Boutique Hotel
Address: Lot 220, Tingkat G, Jalan Bernam, Pekan Sekinchan
74.09 km (46.1 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
6. Kulai (from USD 31)
Located in the state of Johor, Malaysia - Kulai is the capital of the District by the same name. The primary source of income here is agriculture, especially in the oil palm and rubber fields surrounding the town. One of the attractions you must visit while in the area is Mount Pulai, which has a marvelous waterfall and two recreational forests that you will surely enjoy. Apart from nature, Kulai also boasts shopping outlets, like the Johor Premium Outlets, which was the first ever luxury premium brand outlet in Southeast Asia.
Kulai is 302.1 km (187.72 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you more than three hours of travel time to get there.
Castello Hotel
Address: No.93 & 94, Jalan Kenanga 29/7, Indahpura
310.79 km (193.2 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
7. Ipoh (from USD 161)
Great value for money with special offers and spacious rooms.
Large pool, beautiful nature trails, and complimentary snacks and drinks.
Surrounded by nature, serene atmosphere, and close to Ipoh and Gopeng.
Varied breakfast options, friendly staff, but limited dining choices and room for improvement.
Ipoh received its city status in 1988. It wasn’t a frequented spot back then, but the city has since proved that it’s a worthy destination due to the ornate British colonial architecture featured in numerous structures. Ipoh has made its name in the culinary industry, having one of the best-tasting cuisines, and is now regarded as one of the cleanest cities in the country.
Ipoh is 180 km (111 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you two hours of travel time to get there.
The Haven All Suite Resort, Ipoh
Address: Lot 41396, Persiaran Perpaduan, The Haven Lakeside Residences
121.26 km (75.4 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
8. Johor Bahru (from USD 75)
Located along the Straits of Johor is the lively town of Johor Bahru. The Grand Palace building houses the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, which is one of the top cultural attractions in town. Figure Museum, Sultan Ibrahim Building, and Johor Art Gallery are only a few of the many significant landmarks that you’ll get to enjoy once you visit.
Johor Bahru is 331.2 km (105 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you more than three hours of travel time to get there.
Amari Johor Bahru
Address: No. 82C, Jalan Trus
336.34 km (209.0 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
9. Kuala Selangor (from USD 33)
Steer away from the busy nature of Kuala Lumpur and find retreat in the peaceful town of Kuala Selangor. This quiet and modest paradise is home to historical attractions that you may miss if you’re not looking hard enough. Such attractions are Bukit Belanda (Dutch Hill), War Memorial, Royal Mausoleum, and Melawati Fort. It is also believed that the Poisoned Well at Kuala Selangor was used to drown traitors during wartime.
Kuala Selangor is 66 km (41 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you just about an hour of travel time to get there.
Traveler's tips
There are so many monuments in Malaysia that I love but my current favourite is "Tugu Negara", National War Memorial in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur.
During history revision with my kid, we decided to take history out of the books and explore it for real. So, we took a 5-hour drive from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur to see it.
We were so amazed! The towering memorial is 15 metres (49.2 feet) high. And surrounded by the lush greenery of Perdana Botanical Park. Tugu Negara commemorates the unsung fallen heroes during WWII. From the memorial, we could see soldiers from Commonwealth countries and even Gurkhas. Sculpted by Felix de Weldon, Austrian sculptor and opened to the public in 1966.
"Hari ini dalam Sejarah" - today in history, we learnt something meaningful to our county.
Vi Boutique Hotel
Address: 1 Jalan Sri Penambang 1, Taman Seri Penambang
66.76 km (41.5 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
10. Raub (from USD 19)
One of the oldest towns in the state of Pahang is the sleepy town of Raub, which used to be a gold mining settlement. Bukit Fraser (or Fraser’s Hill) is one of the most popular highlands in the country. Going to Raub will get you closer to other landmarks such as Bukit Telaga Waterfalls, known for its turbulent rapids, and Jeram Besu Rapids, which is one of the best kayaking and rafting sports in Malaysia.
Raub is 103.5 km (64 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you about an hour and a half of travel time to get there.
HOTEL RAUB AGRO
Address: Pusat Perniagaan Sempalit, Raub City, Raub, Malaysia, 27600
17.47 km (10.9 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
11. Taman Negara (from USD 128)
Reasonable for a remote jungle resort, inclusive of meals.
Access to national park, nature walks, informative tours, and beautiful grounds.
Nestled inside the national park, with easy access to hiking trails and jungle exploration.
Varied buffet options, tasty Malaysian dishes, and friendly staff, with some room for improvement.
Nestled in Peninsular Malaysia is the national park of Taman Negara, which houses the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, which is over 130 million years old. If you’re particularly looking for a nature trip as your weekend getaway from Kuala Lumpur, Taman Negara is the way to go. Strolling along the canopy walkways, hiking under the lush rainforests, camping, and witnessing the rich wildlife are only a few of the many outdoor activities you can do at the national park.
Taman Negara is 239 km (148.5 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur, and it will take you 3.5 hours of travel time to get there.
Mutiara Taman Negara
Address: Kuala Tahan
105.05 km (65.3 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
12. Melaka (from USD 35)
The capital of the coastal state of Malacca, Melaka, whose catchphrase says, ‘Don’t mess with Melaka’, features ancient architecture and glorious history, which will lure tourists. At its heart, you’ll find the famous Jonker Street, which is known for being a colorful hub of antique shops and night markets. Another must-visit is its ancient religious sites, including the 17th-century Chinese Cheng Hoon Teng temple that features beautiful ornate decor and many prayer halls; and the Kampung Kling Mosque with its Javanese influences.
Melaka is 145.1 km (90.16 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you about two hours of travel time to get there.
Bayou Lagoon Park Resort
Address: Amari Villa, Jalan Wakaf Utama
175.34 km (109.0 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
13. Terengganu (from USD 134)
Reasonable pricing for a unique heritage experience.
Secluded location, traditional Malay houses, and a palatial ambience.
Peaceful surroundings near Penarik beach, with a serene setting and educational gallery.
Exquisite, traditional Malay cuisine with a filling breakfast and marvelous local delicacies.
Well-known for intricate local fabrics like Kain Songket and Kain Batik, Terengganu is located in the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia and has mostly a Malay population and they share the same culture and traditions. Many tourists go here to do island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities. Another attraction is Tasik Kenyir, which is a reservoir lake in Ulu Terengganu that will provide you spectacular panoramas.
Terengganu is 449.9 km (279.55 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you more than four and a half hours of travel time to get there.
Terrapuri Heritage Village, Penarik
Address: Kampung Mangkuk, Penarik, Setiu
243.29 km (151.2 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
14. Gopeng (from USD 60)
Gopeng is a town in Kampar District in Malaysia that has once been the center of the mining industry in the country. As time pass by this little town has evolved into an eco-tourism destination that is rich in heritage, culture, and food scene. One activity that you shouldn’t miss while you’re here is the white water at Kampar River. Here, you’ll be undertaking wild rapids and floats down the river’s clear waters amidst a rich rainforest. As for the caving part, you’ll be exploring the Gua Tempurung and see the beautiful labyrinth of stalagmites and stalactites. Also, at the end of the stalagmite is a river that has wondrous pebbles that will make for a good souvenir.
Gopeng is 182.3 km (113.28 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you almost two hours of travel time to get there.
Gopeng TownHouse
Address: 84 Jalan Tasik
105.79 km (65.8 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
15. Negeri Sembilan (from USD 118)
Reasonable pricing for a secluded jungle retreat, with the option to cook own meals.
Private villas, refreshing pool, nature walks, pet-friendly, basic kitchen facilities.
Secluded in the jungle, serene with the sound of the river, about 1 hour from Kuala Lumpur.
Delicious Malay BBQ, beautiful surprises for special occasions, but limited food choices and small portions.
Located on the Malay Peninsula in the southwest coast, Negeri Sembilan is a great summer destination for its sandy beaches, beautiful nature parks, and stunning palaces. One of the attractions you shouldn’t miss here is the Cape Rachado, which is an expansive nature reserve that has a lighthouse that will give you a spectacular view of the sea and its surroundings. Other points of interest include Port Dickson with its seaside resorts, the Wan Loong Chinese Temple, and the Kota Lukut hilltop fort.
Negeri Sembilan is 64.3 km (39.95 mi) away from Kuala Lumpur and it will take you less than an hour of travel time to get there. Make this destination your KL weekend getaway.
The Dusun
Address: 3437 Kampung Kolam Air Mukim Pantai
105.93 km (65.9 mi) from Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
Hello Kuala Lumpur
You’ll never regret visiting this beautiful city in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur has lots to offer, starting from its iconic Petronas Tower up to hidden villages, coastal towns with its pristine beaches, food factories, and more. Once you’ve visited all the best places and accomplished the best things to do alone or with a group, check out the best day trips and tours too.
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