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How to Spend One Week in Malaysia? (7-Day Itineraries with Cost)

Written by Felicia|Updated: 2025-12-08

Only one week to explore Malaysia? That's enough to give you a first taste of this little-known gem.

Malaysia is divided into East and West. The West is more modern and historically rich, with popular destinations like Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Penang, Langkawi, and Ipoh. The East leans towards nature and pristine landscapes, with Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Semporna, and Kuching popular with outdoor adventure enthusiasts.

For a 7-day trip to Malaysia, if you prefer a less hectic pace, we recommend choosing East or West Malaysia for a more immersive experience. It will be a week full of surprises and wonderful moments.

To help you decide, we've designed two of our most popular, perfectly paced 7-day journeys. One is a deep dive into the culture and cuisine of the West; the other is a family-friendly wildlife adventure in the East.

Let's see what you can share with our Malaysia 7-Day Itineraries!

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  • triangle#1. Classic West Malaysia 7-Day Itinerary: Kuala Lumpur, Malacca & Penang
  • triangle#2. East Malaysis 7-Day Itinerary for Family: Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan & Kinabalu National Park
  • triangleHow Much Does it Cost for 7 Days in Malaysia
  • trianglePlan Your First Malaysia Trip with Asia Odyssey Travel

#1. Classic West Malaysia 7-Day Itinerary: Kuala Lumpur, Malacca & Penang

For many first-timers, this is the perfect introduction to Malaysia. You'll get a taste of everything—modern skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, the colonial charm of Malacca, and street-food paradise in Penang. Think old towns + city views + legendary hawker stalls… all in just one week.

National Mosque of Malaysia
National Mosque of Malaysia
Petronas Twin Towers in KL
Petronas Twin Towers in KL

If you dream of street food heaven, heritage neighborhoods, and a dash of city glam, this itinerary fits like a glove. Expect UNESCO charm by day and night markets by night.

Overview of Classic Malaysia 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1-2: KL Exploration

Day 3: Day trip to Malacca (4 hours of round-trip)

Day 4: Fly to Penang

Day 5-6: Penang deep dive

Day 7: Fly out

Day 1: Welcome to Kuala Lumpur (KL)

Selamat Datang! Welcome to Malaysia's electrifying capital. After landing at KLIA and checking into your hotel, dive straight into the flavor-packed world of Malaysian food. Head to Jalan Alor, where smoky BBQ chicken wings, spicy noodles, and sizzling satay fill the air with temptation.

Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur
Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur
Central Market (Pasar Seni) In KL
Central Market (Pasar Seni) In KL

The next day is reserved for KL's greatest hits. Start with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers (book tickets ahead for the skybridge!). Then take a short ride to the famous Batu Caves, where a golden statue of Lord Murugan guards a rainbow staircase leading into limestone caverns and Hindu shrines.

In the afternoon, step into KL's colonial past at Merdeka Square, explore the Central Market, and wander the vibrant chaos of Petaling Street (Chinatown) for bargains, desserts, and photo-worthy neon signs.

Sarawak Tourist Map: Detailed Map of Sarawak’s Caves & Rainforests

Malaysia Sabah Map: Tourist Map of Sabah in Borneo

Day 3: Malacca – A Charming UNESCO Day Trip

Wake up early for a 2-hour drive to Malacca, a coastal city once ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Start at the red-brick Dutch Square, climb St. Paul's Hill for sea views, and then get lost (in the best way) along Jonker Street, famous for antique shops and street food.

Dutch Square in Malacca
Dutch Square in Malacca
Malacca River Cruise
Malacca River Cruise

A highlight here? Take a 45-minute Malacca River Cruise, drifting past lively murals, historic façades, and leafy walkways. Before you return to KL, try the iconic local dish: Chicken Rice Balls—simple, comforting, and uniquely Malaccan.

Return to Kuala Lumpur in the evening and relax.

Day 4: Fly to Penang, the Pearl of the Orient

Enjoy a relaxed morning and maybe some last-minute shopping before your short flight to Penang. Check into a hotel within the UNESCO-listed George Town district so you're steps away from food stalls, heritage buildings, and murals.

Dinner time is a delicious adventure:

  • Char Kway Teow (smoky stir-fried noodles)
  • Assam Laksa (spicy, tangy fish broth—Penang's pride)
  • Cendol (shaved ice with coconut milk and palm sugar)

Trust us: you'll never forget this meal.

Art Murals in Armenian Street
Art Murals in Armenian Street
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)

Day 5–6: George Town, Temples & Hilltop Views

Spend your first full day wandering George Town.

Explore Chinese clan houses like the ornate Khoo Kongsi, stroll through temples perfumed with incense, and visit the famous Clan Jetties, where traditional wooden homes stand above the sea.

Don't forget to hunt for street art, especially murals by Ernest Zacharevic—you'll see kids riding bikes, cats lounging, and whimsical surprises around every corner.

On Day 6, head to Kek Lok Si Temple, one of Southeast Asia's most impressive hilltop temples, with colorful pagodas and a towering statue of the Goddess of Mercy.

Then ride the Penang Hill Funicular for sunset views and cooler air, looking over the island as the city lights begin to sparkle.

Day 7: Goodbye, Penang

Enjoy one last breakfast—maybe roti canai, maybe nasi lemak, maybe… both—before heading to Penang International Airport. You'll leave full, happy, and probably plotting your return.

Penang City Hall
Penang City Hall
Penang Hill
Penang Hill

#2. East Malaysis 7-Day Itinerary for Family: Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan & Kinabalu National Park

Planning a family trip? Borneo is where curiosity runs wild and energetic kids finally run out of energy (you're welcome).

This itinerary brings you face-to-face with amazing animals, jungle rivers, towering rainforests, and sandy island escapes. It's thrilling enough for the little ones and comfortable enough for parents — a perfect first taste of Borneo.

Overview of Family Malaysia 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive KK.

Day 2: Kinabalu National Park

Day 3: Island Hopping to TARP

Day 4: Flight to Sandakan

Day 5-6: 2d1n Kinabatangan River Cruise

Day 7: Fly out.

Day 1: Welcome to Kota Kinabalu (KK)

You've arrived in Sabah, “The Land Below the Wind”!

After settling into your hotel, head to the lively Waterfront Market for a relaxed dinner.

Kids will love choosing from rows of fresh seafood — grilled, steamed, sauced, you name it — while parents enjoy sunset views over the South China Sea. It's an easy, delicious start.

Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping
Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping
Night Markets in Kota Kinabalu
Night Markets in Kota Kinabalu

Day 2: Nature & Discovery at Kinabalu National Park

Today, trade city views for misty mountains. Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia's first UNESCO Natural Heritage Site, offers cool air (a welcome break!), botanical gardens bursting with curious plants, and a canopy walkway high above the rainforest floor.

For kids, this is “real jungle explorer mode.” For adults, it's nature therapy with a side of science.

Day 3: Beach Fun & Snorkeling at TARP Marine Park

A short boat ride whisks your family to tropical paradise. Spend the day hopping between islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

  • Snorkel with colorful fish at Sapi Island
  • Lounge on white sandy beaches at Manukan Island
  • Enjoy a seaside barbecue lunch

This is pure fun under the sun — sandcastles, sea breeze, and plenty of splash time.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping
Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping

Day 4: Fly to Sandakan & Into the Wild

Fly from KK to Sandakan, the wildlife hub of Borneo.

From the airport, head deep into jungle country, traveling about two hours to your riverside lodge along the Kinabatangan River.

After settling in, board your first river cruise as afternoon light turns golden — perfect for spotting monkeys swinging through the trees.

Day 5–6: Kinabatangan River Adventure (2D/1N)

This is the highlight of your family trip. Over two days, you'll experience jungle life up close.

River Safaris: Head out at sunrise and sunset with a guide to spot animals in the wild. Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • Long-nosed proboscis monkeys
  • Wild orangutans
  • Playful macaques
  • Hornbills soaring overhead
  • And if you're very lucky… Bornean pygmy elephants!

A Night in the Jungle: Enjoy meals at your lodge surrounded by rainforest sounds. Some lodges even include a guided night walk, where kids can search for nocturnal creatures like sleeping birds, frogs, and glittering insects.

 Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Kinabatangan River Cruise
Kinabatangan River Cruise

Day 7: Orangutans, Sun Bears & Farewell

After a final morning cruise, return toward Sandakan for one last unforgettable experience.

Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where rescued orangutans learn to return to the wild — you'll see them during feeding time, swinging effortlessly from the trees. Just next door is the Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world's smallest (and very adorable) bears.

After your visit, transfer to Sandakan Airport for your flight home — hearts full, cameras loaded, and kids possibly asking if they can become wildlife rescuers.

How Much Does it Cost for 7 Days in Malaysia

Malaysia offers incredible value for money. Your budget will depend heavily on your travel style.

General Cost for 7 Days in Malaysia

Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands

Here is a general estimate per person, per day (excluding international flights):

Budget Traveler: $40 - $60 USD / day

This covers stays in hostels or budget guesthouses, eating primarily at street food stalls (which is a highlight!), and using public transportation.

Mid-Range Traveler: $80 - $150 USD / day

This is the sweet spot for most travelers. It allows for comfortable 3-4 star hotels, a mix of meals at restaurants and hawker centers, and using ride-sharing apps like Grab (which is very affordable) or domestic flights.

Luxury Traveler: $250+ USD / day

This includes stays at 5-star hotels and luxury resorts, fine dining experiences, and private transfers or guides.

How Much for 7-day Itinerary with Asia Odyssey Travel

Accommodation: 4-star hotels or boutique stays ~ RM 250–400/night → ~ RM 1,750–2,800 for 7 nights

Food: Mix of street food + local restaurants → ~ RM 80–150/day → ~ RM 560–1,050

Transport: Local transfer, occasional Grab, airport transfers → ~ RM 30–60/day → ~ RM 210–420

Attractions and Tours: Petronas Towers, national parks, day trips → ~ RM 100–200/day → ~ RM 700–1,400

Miscellaneous (shopping, sim card, souvenirs, tips): ~ RM 200–400

Estimated total for 7 days (mid-range, via Asia Odyssey): RM 3,500 – RM 5,000+ (~US$770–1,100), depending on how active you are and which cities or regions you visit.

Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands
Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands
Jamek Mosque in Kuala Lumpur
Jamek Mosque in Kuala Lumpur

Plan Your First Malaysia Trip with Asia Odyssey Travel

Planning a Malaysia trip can be exciting—but also overwhelming if you're juggling flights, transfers, and endless sightseeing options. That's where Asia Odyssey Travel comes in.

We offer:

  • Expert Customization: We listen to your interests and craft a personalized itinerary just for you, 7 days, 10 days, 2 weeks and more.
  • Hassle-Free Travel: We handle all the bookings, flights, and transfers, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
  • Local Knowledge: Our on-the-ground expertise means you'll discover hidden gems, not just the tourist spots.
  • Useful Tourist Maps: We provide clear, easy-to-read maps for each major destination—Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Sarawak and more.

Ready to explore the wonders of Malaysia, including the wild BorneoGet Your Free, No-Obligation Itinerary Quote Today!

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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