12 Days Malaysia Singapore Bali Tour: City, Culture & Island Escape

Welcome to Malaysia! Upon arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Kuala Lumpur, often affectionately called "KL," is the vibrant capital and largest city of Malaysia. KL is a true fusion of cultures, where Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various indigenous groups live side-by-side in harmony. Kuala Lumpur’s magic lies in its contrasts - where centuries-old temples and majestic mosques nestle beside colonial facades, and towering skyscrapers cast their shadows over bustling street stalls that tempt with the scent of sizzling satay and spiced noodles.

Arrival Ideas:

By Flight: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is Malaysia's primary international gateway, offering a wide array of flights from Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and beyond.

By Land: If you're traveling from Singapore or Thailand, a comprehensive network of long-distance buses connects directly to Kuala Lumpur's main bus terminal, Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS). Train services also connect Kuala Lumpur with parts of Thailand and Singapore (via Johor Bahru); most intercity trains arrive at KL Sentral.

Morning: Cultural & Heritage Walking, Art & Shopping Exploration

Begin at the National Museum, offering a comprehensive overview of the country's history and heritage. A short walk leads to the National Mosque (Masjid Negara), one of Malaysia’s most important religious landmarks. Unlike traditional mosques with conventional domes, it stands out with its bold, contemporary, and geometric design. Its impressive features include a 16-point star-shaped main roof (symbolizing Malaysia's 13 states and the Five Pillars of Islam) and a 73-meter-high minaret. Next, discover the Islamic Arts Museum, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, housing exquisite collections of Islamic art and artifacts from around the world.

Then, walk through history with a guided Heritage Trail. Stroll towards Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka), the historic site where Malaysia declared its independence. Here, marvel at the stunning Moorish-inspired architecture of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, an iconic landmark featuring a distinctive 40-meter clock tower. Just a short distance away, discover Masjid Jamek, one of Kuala Lumpur's oldest mosques, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers.

After soaking in the history, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant art and shopping scene. Head to Central Market (Pasar Seni). It's an air-conditioned art deco building filled with local handicrafts, batik, souvenirs, and food stalls. Just a stone's throw away, dive into the bustling energy of Petaling Street (Chinatown). You'll find everything from antique to traditional Chinese medicine and street food. It's a vibrant sensory experience.

Afternoon: Batu Caves, Petronas Twin Towers

In the afternoon, head just outside the city to the Batu Caves. This iconic Hindu temple complex is a must-see. This massive limestone hill houses a series of caves and cave temples. Prepare for an invigorating climb up 272 colorful steps that wind their way to the main cave temple, guarded by the colossal golden statue of Lord Murugan - a journey that often includes monkey sightings. If you happen to be visiting in late January, keep an eye out for the Tamil festival of Thaipusam. (Dress code: Shoulders and knees should be covered.)

Return to the city for a photo stop at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Witness these magnificent structures dominate the skyline: These two gleaming silver towers rise like two spears, directly piercing the clouds, connected by a skybridge between them. Optional activity: You can opt to ascend the towers to witness the mesmerizing city night view from their observation deck (at your own expense).

Free Time Idea: Culinary Delights at Jalan Alor

Jalan Alor is a famous food street that truly comes alive at night. It's a fantastic place to sample a wide array of Malaysian street food, from grilled seafood to local noodles and desserts.

Today you'll drive two hours south of Kuala Lumpur to Melaka, the oldest trading port in Malaysia, which has undergone Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Founded in 1403, Malacca is an old town full of fascinating multi-faceted history and multi-cultural heritage. The Portuguese, Dutch and British rule over Melaka has left a deep legacy of historical relics and architecture, reflected most strongly in its town.

The beauty of Malacca town is globally recognized, and it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. Upon arrival, you'll head straight to the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Zone, an area perfectly suited for exploration on foot. Your local guide will provide intriguing anecdotes and historical insights throughout the tour

Begin your exploration at the Dutch Square (Red Square), the heart of Malacca's Dutch colonial period. Here, our guide leads you through the majestic Stadhuys, a striking dark red building that once served as the town hall. We visit Christ Church (closed every Monday), admire the Clock Tower, and the Queen Victoria Fountain, all testaments to the city's colonial past.

Next, we ascend St. Paul's Hill to explore the ruins of St. Paul's Church, erected around 1571. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Strait of Malacca, imagining the merchant ships that once plied these waters. At the base of the hill, visit Porta de Santiago (A Famosa), built around 1512. This imposing Portuguese fortress will transport you back to the age of great maritime discoveries.

Next, immerse yourself in Jonker Walk (Jalan Hang Jebat), Malacca's famous Chinatown street, is home to numerous shops and eateries that offer a taste of Chinese culture. You'll get to explore the street's hidden alleys and learn about the history of Chinese immigration to Malaysia. Discover the rich Peranakan heritage at the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, a beautifully preserved ancestral home offering a glimpse into this unique .

Optional activity: Want a unique way to explore the heritage area? Consider taking a  Colorful Trishaw Ride through the old town - brightly decorated with flowers, fairy lights, and even Hello Kitty or Pikachu themes! (at your own expense).

Lastly, enjoy a relaxing Malacca River Cruise (45 minutes). This boat ride offers a charming perspective of the city's colorful historical buildings and vibrant street art murals lining the riverbanks.

Stay overnight in Malacca.

After breakfast, meet your driver at your hotel lobby for a four-hour transfer across the Malaysian border to Singapore. Border procedures will be assisted to ensure a smooth crossing.

Upon arrival and check-in to your Singapore accommodation, prepare for an afternoon immersed in the futuristic wonders of Gardens by the Bay.

At Gardens by the Bay, immerse yourself in a fusion of nature and technology in the City of the Future. Gardens by the Bay is an important part of Singapore's transformation into a "Garden City". It includes two plant greenhouses, multiple themed gardens and a large outdoor landscape area. During the day, you can escape the heat by exploring the two indoor wonders of the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome (bring a coat if you're sensitive to the cold).

Step into a world of wonder at Gardens by the Bay! A must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and dreamers! At Flower Dome, you can marvel at the world’s largest glass greenhouse, a perpetual springtime paradise with over 30,000 exotic flowers and plants from five continents. At Cloud Forest, you can wander through misty mountain landscapes, home to orchids, ferns, and pitcher plants, and be awed by a stunning 35-meter indoor waterfall. At Supertree Grove, you can discover futuristic vertical gardens -18 towering supertrees (25 to 50 meters tall) adorned with 150,000 plants across 200 species. After that head back to your hotel.

Notes for Gardens by the Bay:

1.Gardens by the Bay is relatively large. If there are elderly people and children, you can buy a combined ticket including the shuttle bus. Beware of mosquitoes.

2.Self-pay for other tickets not mentioned like Supertree Observatory, OCBC Skyway, Floral Fantasy.

3.Satay by the Bay: There are all kinds of local Singaporean delicacies here, including satay, Hainanese chicken rice, and chili crab, all at very affordable prices.

Today, you will explore the highlights of Singapore City.

First, head to Kampong Glam, a good place to explore Muslim & Malay Culture. As one of the oldest street in Singapore, this area used to be the center of activities for the Malay Royal Family, and it retains many historical buildings and cultural attractions such as the Sultan Mosque, Arab Street and Haji Lane.

Kampong Glam was a seaside village 200 years ago. In Malay "Kampong" means 'village,' the village was named for the gelam trees that once grew there, used for shipbuilding and medicine. During Singapore's colonial era, Sir Stamford Raffles designated it for Malay, Arab, and Bugis communities in 1822. Today, its 19 th-century shophouses host textile shops and diverse restaurants.

The Sultan Mosque is the landmark of Kampong Glam due to its huge golden dome and towering minaret. Its architectural style is a fusion of Malay, Indian and Mughal styles, epitomizing Singapore's multiculturalism. Sultan Mosque was built in 1824 by Sultan Hussein Shah, the Sultan of Johor. In 1819, Sultan Hussein Shah's agreement with the British was a key event in the founding of modern Singapore. As part of the agreement, Sultan Hussein Shah was recognized as the First Sultan of Singapore, and the area of Kampong Glam was allocated to him and his followers. Now, the Sultan Mosque can accommodate up to 5,000 believers for worship at the same time. (Note: To enter the mosque, wear long pants and sleeves out of respect).

When visiting Kampong Glam you should not miss a visit to Haji Lane to check out the murals by local artists such as Yip Yew Chong (叶耀宗). Haji Lane is famous for its striking murals and graffiti, making it a photographer's paradise. It's packed with independent shops selling trendy fashion, vintage items, and quirky souvenirs. It's a hub for hip cafes and bars, perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

After that, you will pay a visit to Merlion Park by driving past Civic District, the historic heart of Singapore. You can view important landmarks (colonial era buildings) from your car such as the Padang, a historic field hosting national events, the elegant Singapore Cricket Club (Founded in 1852), the colonial-era Parliament House (Completed in 1827), and the stunning National Gallery Singapore.

You will have a quick stop at Merlion Park for the Merlion Statue. It is a National Symbol of Singapore that finished in 1972. The Merlion combines a lion's head and fish body, representing Singapore's 'Lion City' name and fishing village history. According to myth, a brave prince saw a lion on the island and named it Singapura, blending strength and maritime heritage. As the smallest park in Singapore, Merlion Park is the perfect spot for photoing the Merlion Statue (8.6 meter’s Height) at a close distance and viewing the Marina Bay Sands and CBD of Singapore from afar.

Then transfer to explore Thian Hock Keng, Singapore's oldest Hokkien temple and a symbol of local Taoist culture. Thian Hock Keng, built in 1840 by early Hokkien immigrants, is dedicated to Mazu (妈祖), who protected early Chinese immigrants during their perilous sea journeys. Located in Chinatown, it is a masterpiece of traditional Southern Chinese Architecture. You can marvel at its intricate carvings, nail-less construction, colorful tile, ancestral worship traditions, and peaceful ambiance.

At Last, head to Singapore Botanic Gardens. Established in 1859, it has transformed from a British colonial-era tropical garden into a modern, world-class scientific institution focused on conservation and education. The gardens attract plant enthusiasts who come to explore tropical plants and orchids, birders hoping to spot species like the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Buffy Fish-Owl, and Stork-billed Kingfisher, as well as wildlife enthusiasts eager to encounter otters, monitor lizards, plantain squirrels, geckos... Locals frequent the gardens for jogging, picnicking, or attending concerts at its Symphony Lake.

Did you know that the Singapore Botanic Gardens played a pivotal role in the rubber industry, contributing to its recognition as the only World Heritage Site in Singapore? In 1877, the Gardens introduced the rubber tree to Singapore from Brazil via the Royal Botanic Gardens in the UK. This breakthrough led to the successful cultivation of rubber across Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand), transforming the region into a global hub for rubber production. Its contributions to rubber cultivation, along with its rich tropical rainforest plant collection, stunning garden design, unique architecture, and cultural history, earned it UNESCO World Cultural Heritage status in 2015.

You won’t miss the crown jewel of the Singapore Botanic Gardens - the National Orchid Garden! Step into a world of color and beauty, home to over 1,000 orchid species and stunning hybrids. This is the ultimate spot to admire the Vanda Miss Joaquim (卓锦万代兰), the beloved National Flower of Singapore, and marvel at orchids named after global icons like Lee Kuan Yew (李光耀), Jackie Chan (成龙), Princess Diana, Michelle Obama, and Singapore’s very own songbird, Stefanie Sun (孙燕姿).

Travel Tips:

1.The iconic 150-year-old Tembusu tree, featured on Singapore's $5 note, is located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Specifically, it's found not far from the Tanglin Gate entrance.

2.The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a great spot to see Singapore's National Bird, the Crimson Sunbird. The small size and agility bird feeds on nectar and is often found among flowers in forested areas.

Free Time Ideas:

1.Take a ride on the Singapore Flyer (8:30 am to 10:30 pm; Self-pay) for panoramic city views in the night.

2.Explore Orchard Road, Singapore's famous shopping street.

Enjoy a Eco tour in Singapore as a Park Hopper today. Did you know Singapore's so small, it's called 'The Little Red Dot'? Only 728 square kilometers! But get this: over 70% is green! Today, you'll see amazing animals at the Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise (Optional), and Night Safari, all part of this green paradise.

As one of the world’s best rainforest zoos, Singapore Zoo features the first free-ranging orangutan habitat in a zoo. Orangutans are critically endangered, according to the IUCN. That is why the logo of Singapore Zoo is a Orangutan. Orangutans are Asia’s only great ape & the Largest tree-dwelling mammals. Like Singaporeans, Orangutans are Durian lovers. Don't forget to ask your guide to tell you more about the celebrity Orangutan called Ah Meng. She became the first and only animal to be conferred the ‘Special Tourism Ambassador’ award. She was the gracious host of the “Breakfast with Orangutan”.

Singapore Zoo is a must-visit for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and casual travelers, due to its unique Open Zoo Concept. You can experience animals roaming in naturalistic habitats separated by moats and wooden fencing, offering an immersive wildlife encounter. Get ready for a wild adventure with over 4,200 animals inhabiting the lush tropical rainforest. The zoo showcases over 300 species from diverse ecosystems worldwide!

You can explore Singapore Zoo’s Star Animals like Orangutans, Asian Elephants, Giraffes, White Rhinoceroses, Grey Kangaroos & Agile Wallabies, Tree Kangaroos, Nubian Ibexes, Hamadryas Baboons, African Lions, Australian Wallabies… Visit KidzWorld, home of the Ranger Buddies, and step into the Fragile Forest, a 20,000-cubic-meter rainforest biodome. Discover reptiles at RepTopia, and explore themed zones like Australasia, Elephants of Asia, Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia, Primate Kingdom, and Wild Africa.

You will have the chance to enjoy the Unique Animal Interactions. Participate in Animal Feeding sessions (Self-pay) with arapaimas, elephants, giraffes, zebra, and white rhinoceroses, creating unforgettable memories for families and animal lovers. There are also Daily Animal Presentations (Reservation required) like Into The Wild (12:00 pm & 2:30 pm), and Splash Safari (10:30 am & 5:00 pm).

Then, move to River Wonders, known as the World's Largest Freshwater Aquarium. River Wonders is home to over 7,500 aquatic and land animals, representing more than 240 species. You can explore iconic rivers from around the world such as the Amazon, Nile, Yangtze, Mississippi, and the Ganges. At River Wonders, you can see diverse river life: giant river otters, manatees, fish like arapaima, reptiles, and birds. It's a journey through global river ecosystems, making it a must-visit for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

You can enjoy Star Animals in River Wonders such as Giant Pandas (Kai Kai & Jia Jia), Red Panda, Amazonian Manatees (gentle giants; Logo of River Wonders), Capybaras (the world’s largest rodents), Arapaima (one of the world’s largest freshwater fish), Indian Gharials, Giant Freshwater Stingray, African Tigerfish, Giant River Otters (Nature’s engineers), Electric Eel... Take your time to discover the enchanting Giant Panda Forest and the immersive Amazon Flooded Forest.

Don't miss the Amazon River Quest Boat Ride (Self-pay), it is a fun way to spot the animals like Brazilian Tapir, Jaguar, Giant Anteater along the riverside. If time permits, you can catch the Once Upon a River Show (Reservation Required) for unique animal encounters (beaver, pelican, capybara) and interactive fun!

Did you know? Singapore's freshwater sources mainly include imports from Malaysia (50%), rainwater collection (40%), and desalination/recycled water (10%). So being able to appreciate the colorful world of freshwater organisms in the River Wonders is a very wonderful experience in itself. Enjoy your River Wonders adventure!

Travel Tips:

1.For Amazon River Quest Boat Ride: Children who are 1.06m and taller are welcome to embark on the Amazon River Quest. Rain may close Amazon River Quest for safety. Tickets won't be refunded or replaced.

2.For Once Upon a River Show/Presentations. At 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM per day (subject to change) at Boat Plaza. Guests are required to book presentation seats online in advance. Booking portal opens 2 hours before presentation time.

3.Wear long pants, repellent, hat, and sunscreen for mosquitoes and sun. Use insect repellent to prevent bites. Bring a raincoat or umbrella in case it rains.

After that hop to Bird Paradise (Optional), Asia’s largest bird park. The mascot of Bird Paradise is "Sunny", a Great Pied Hornbill. You can find the star birds at Bird Paradise like African Grey Parrot (Famous for its intelligence and mimicry), Bali Myna (Critically endangered and native to Bali), Hyacinth Macaw (The world’s largest parrot), Great Hornbill (A symbol of tropical rainforests), King Penguin (The second-largest penguin species), Philippine Eagle (King of the Birds), Scarlet Macaw (A vibrant icon of the tropics).

Bird Paradise features 8 immersive habitats that replicate ecosystems like African rainforests, South American wetlands, and Southeast Asian rice fields. With over 400 species and 3,500 birds—24% of which are endangered—the park is a vital hub for global bird conservation. Unlike traditional zoos, the open-entry aviaries let you observe birds’ natural behaviors up close. From watching weaver birds build nests to spotting star species, Bird Paradise offers a truly unique experience.

At last, time to hop to Night Safari (open hours: 19:15-24:00) for a Unique Nocturnal Experience. It's the world's first nocturnal zoo, allowing you to observe animals in their natural nighttime habitats. This provides a fascinating perspective on animal behavior that you wouldn't see during the day. The park is designed to mimic natural environments, with subtle lighting that allows you to see the animals without disturbing them.

The whole park is divided into 8 major geographical exhibition areas, covering Southeast Asian rainforests, African savannas, South American pampas grasslands, etc. You can experience the global diverse ecology at one time. The park is home to 1,040 animals, of which 29% are endangered species, such as the Tasmanian devil, Malayan tiger, Asian elephant, etc.

Popular Animals in Night Safari include Malayan Tapir (unique-looking animals), Asian Elephants, Fishing Cats, Buffy fish-owl, Barking deer, Hyenas, Clouded leopards, Asian small-clawed otter (social animals), Asian Black Bears, Flying Foxes (The world's largest bats), Tasmanian devil (shocking roar), Wallabies... You can enjoy a guided tram ride that takes you through different geographical zones, showcasing animals from various habitats. You can also explore scenic walking trails that allow for up-close encounters with various animals in a more immersive setting.

Note: Check the performances/Interactive Activities at Night Safari in advance to make the most of your trip.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight from Yogyakarta to Denpasar, Bali. Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport, your local driver will meet you and take you on a scenic drive (about 1.5 -2 hours) to Ubud, the island’s cultural heart. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is a destination where natural beauty, cultural richness, and tropical charm come together. Golden beaches and fiery sunsets set the stage for romance, while emerald rice terraces, hidden waterfalls, and volcanic peaks invite adventure. Ancient temples, vibrant festivals, and daily offerings reveal a deeply spiritual culture found nowhere else in the world.

Today, you'll dive deep into the cultural and natural essence of Bali with a full day of exploration in Ubud and its surrounding areas.

Begin at the Ubud Palace, which was once the official residence of the Ubud royal family. Built in the early 19th century, the palace is a fine example of traditional Balinese architecture, with ornate stone carvings, elegant courtyards, and lush gardens that reflect the island’s artistry and cultural heritage. In the evenings, the palace courtyard transforms into a stage for traditional Balinese dance and music performances, making it a vibrant cultural hub.

Right across the street from the palace is the vibrant Ubud Market. Take a stroll through the bustling Ubud Market, where you can browse a wide variety of handicrafts, paintings, woodcarvings, silver jewelry, and colorful batik fabrics. It’s the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs and experience the local atmosphere.

Continue north to the world-famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces, where emerald-green paddies cascade down the hillsides in stunning layers. Here, you can admire the stunning "Subak" irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a leisurely walk along the narrow paths, and capture postcard-worthy photos of this iconic landscape.

Lastly, visit Tirta Empul Temple, one of Bali’s most sacred water temples. Famous for its holy spring water, this temple is an important site for purification rituals, where locals and visitors alike take part in traditional bathing ceremonies believed to cleanse the body and spirit. Tip: Visitors are required to wear a sarong to enter the temple, and it’s easy to rent or borrow one at the entrance.

After the tour,drive back to your hotel in Ubud.

This morning, drive from Ubud to Uluwatu (about 2.5 hour). The journey takes you from Bali’s lush inland hills to its dramatic southern coastline.

On the way, travel along the scenic cliffside roads carved into limestone, with one side rising into steep rock walls and the other opening to the vast Indian Ocean. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of crashing waves, rugged coastlines, and even sections of road that cut directly through stone cliffs.

Arrive at the dramatic Uluwatu Cliff (often called Lover’s Cliff), where towering cliffs plunge 70 meters into the sea and waves crash far below. Perched right on top is the sacred Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu), one of Bali’s most revered sea temples.

The temple’s cliff-top location makes it one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Bali, especially at sunset, when the horizon glows in shades of gold and crimson. Stroll along the pathways that wind around the temple grounds, take in the sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, and feel the spiritual atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims here for centuries.

As the sun sets, gather in the temple’s open-air amphitheater to watch the Kecak Fire Dance. Pronounced “ket-chak,” this is a traditional Balinese performance accompanied by rhythmic chanting. More than 50 men wearing Balinese sarongs sit in a circle, chanting in unison as dancers re-enact dramatic episodes from the Hindu epic Ramayana. As fire torches light up the stage against the twilight sky, the performance becomes truly unforgettable.

After the show, take a short drive (about 15–30 minutes) to Jimbaran Beach, famous for its golden sands and beachfront seafood dining. Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by the sea.

In the morning, drive to Sanur, a laid-back coastal town on Bali’s southeast shore. Sanur is not only known for its relaxed atmosphere and long sandy beaches, but also as the main departure point for ferries to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.

Today is free for you to enjoy at leisure. You may choose to relax at your hotel, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, or explore nearby spots like Sindhu Market on your own.

Alternatively, you can join an optional Nusa Penida West Coast Tour (with extra cost), which includes:

• Hotel pick-up & boat transfer to Nusa Penida and a local lunch on the island.
• Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Bay) the world-famous cliff viewpoint shaped like a dinosaur.
• Broken Beach a natural archway and stunning cove formed by the sea.
• Angel’s Billabong a crystal-clear natural infinity pool carved into the rocks.

Today is free for you to enjoy at leisure. You may choose to chill out at the beach, or

take a bicycle ride around the coast, try water activities, relax by the pool, etc.

Alternatively, you can join an optional Nusa Penida East Coast Tour (with extra cost), which includes:

• Hotel pick-up & boat transfer to Nusa Penidaand a local lunch on the island.
• Diamond Beach a dazzling white-sand beach with turquoise waters, reached by a carved stone staircase.
• Atuh Beach a beautiful crescent-shaped bay framed by dramatic cliffs.
• Rumah Pohon (Tree House) the famous cliffside tree house offering sweeping views over the coastline and islets.

It is time to end your unforgettable Malaysia Singapore Bali Tour. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) for your departure flight. Safe travels!

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your tour of Asia. We are dedicated to enhancing your travel experiences and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in Asia. Have a safe journey home!