#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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


#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.


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.


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.


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


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.


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 Borneo? Get Your Free, No-Obligation Itinerary Quote Today!
