19 BEST Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2026
Planning a visit to Malaysia and want to know all the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur? We’ve got you covered!
Kuala Lumpur is one of those cities that feels like a home away from home. It’s known as the city of affordable luxury, with amazing hotels with rooftop pools, great food, coffee, and plenty of things to do. It’s a very clean, yet vibrant city, full of life and a certain charm that’s hard to describe. It’s exactly why we keep going back.
We’ve spent more than a month based in KL at this point, exploring everything that it has to offer. After visiting almost every tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur (at least once), we have a pretty good understanding of what’s actually worth doing, and what’s not. Here’s our top 19 recommendations for your first visit to Kuala Lumpur.
Plan Your Trip With Our Favourite Resources
-Book Your Flights: Skyscanner
-Best Accommodation Booking Site: Booking.com
-Book Day Tours Here: Get Your Guide
-Purchase Travel Insurance Here: SafetyWing
In a rush and don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s our personal favourite top 5 things to do in Kuala Lumpur:
- Visit Batu Caves
- Relax in the Perdana Botanical Gardens
- See the Petronas Towers
- Watch the KLCC Park fountain show
- Tour the beautiful Federal Territory Mosque
Top Must-See Attractions In Kuala Lumpur
These are the places and attractions you’ve probably come to Kuala Lumpur to see. The ones that are posted all over social media (and for good reason)
1. See The Petronas Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers are one of the most iconic landmarks in Kuala Lumpur and are definitely worth seeing. These are the tallest twin towers in the world, and were once the tallest building in the world, measuring 452 metres tall.
There is a unique double-decker sky bridge connecting levels 41 and 42, and an observation deck on level 86, giving you incredible views of Kuala Lumpur. The ticket queue can get very busy as only a handful of people are allowed up at any one time, and online tickets sell out very early.
We recommend booking your tickets at least 3 weeks in advance.
Inside the Petronas Towers, on the ground floor, is a fancy shopping mall with a whole host of designer brands, as well as a few more affordable places.
They are particularly special when lit up at night, but they’re worth seeing in the day too. Head to KLCC Park for the best views of the towers.
2. Batu Caves
Batu Caves is one of the most famous and popular things to do in Kuala Lumpur. 272 brightly-coloured rainbow stairs lead to a cave at the top, with two temples hidden inside. It can get very busy, with tour buses arriving around 9am, so go early to skip the crowds.
The temple is home to a large amount of long-tailed macaques and a huge flock of pigeons. There are people at the bottom selling bananas and bird food to feed them, however we don’t recommend doing this.
Feeding the monkeys can increase the dependance on humans and make the monkeys more aggressive. Generally, the macaques are fine and don’t target people, but make sure you don’t bring any food or plastic bags as these will instantly make you a target for them!
Make sure you do climb the staircase, as the views from the top are incredible, and the cave is pretty spectacular. The two temples inside are not particularly big, but they’re worth seeing.
Tip – As Batu Caves is a religious site, make sure to cover your knees and shoulders
3. Petaling Street
Petaling Street is located in the heart of Chinatown and is one of the best authentic shopping experiences in Kuala Lumpur. The street is made up of traditional colonial-era shophouses, painted in bright colours.
Chinese lanterns hang overhead, and the street is lined with stalls selling everything from food to clothing. The surrounding streets are filled with amazing cafés and restaurants, the smells of which drift across the market.
Petaling Street gets very busy, and honestly slightly overwhelming at times, but it’s an experience that we recommend to everyone visiting Kuala Lumpur.
Tip – Make sure to keep your valuables in an anti-theft bag such as this one.
4. Jalan Alor Night Market
If you’re after good street food, you’re not going to want to miss Jalan Alor night market. This wide street has incredible views over the city’s skyscrapers, and a lively atmosphere that instantly puts a smile on your face.
As you stroll along, you’ll find stalls selling satay, mango sticky rice (highly recommend!), potato swirls, and all sorts of little bites. The edges of the street are lined with sit-down type restaurants, with the tables spilling into the street.
It’s the perfect place to try something new, or sit with a cold drink and soak up the atmosphere.
Religious & Sacred Sites
Whilst Malaysia is an Islamic country, Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of different cultures. One of the best ways to get to know the different cultures and religions is by visiting their respective religious sites, including temples and mosques. Here are the ones we recommend.
5. National Mosque Of Malaysia (Masjid Negara)
Located near the Perdana Botanical Gardens, the National Mosque of Malaysia is worth stopping by. It’s a beautiful building, though full disclaimer, not our favourite mosque in Kuala Lumpur (read on to find our favourite!).
You probably won’t spend long here, but it’s interesting to see the prayer hall and the beautiful marble structure. As it’s near other attractions on this list, we do think it’s worth popping by. However, if you only have time for one mosque, make it the next one on this list!
Tip – If you don’t have appropriate dress, a robe is provided.
6. Federal Territory Mosque (Masjid Wilayah)
The Federal Territory Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques we’ve visited in Malaysia. With a turquoise-coloured dome, and white marble structure, it is absolutely stunning. The design has heavy Ottoman influences and is said to look similar to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
The thing we loved most about the Federal Territory Mosque is that you’re given a free tour, lasting around 45 minutes. Our guide was amazing. He told us so much about the history of the mosque, as well as information on Islam. He answered every question I had, and I learnt so much about the religion. It was fascinating.
We also got to sit in on the 1pm Prayer and observe from the back of the prayer hall. This is something most mosques do not allow, with many not allowing non-muslims into the prayer hall at all.
7. Thean Hou Temple
Thean Hou Temple is a Chinese temple dating back to the 19th Century. It is absolutely stunning, painted in a mix of red and white. Red Chinese lanterns hang over the courtyards and around the pagodas, which is absolutely stunning.
As it is built on top of a hill, Thean Hou Temple has amazing views over the Kuala Lumpur skyline. It is a very popular place to visit in Kuala Lumpur, and is pretty exposed to the sun, so make sure to go early. There are some fantastic photo opportunities here – in fact there were two engagement/wedding shoots taking place when we visited!
Outside of the main temple is a little garden area with sculptures and water features which is beautiful to walk around.
8. Sri Mahamariamman
Mahamariamman Temple was the first Hindu temple we visited and it was incredible. This is actually the oldest and largest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur. It is technically free to enter, but you have to pay someone a small fee to store your shoes whilst you’re inside.
The temple is incredibly colourful, with intricate carvings telling Hindu stories. The ornate tower at the entrance has all the Hindu deities carved into it. Despite being in the centre of the city, Sri Mahamariamman is incredibly peaceful. With the scent of incense wafting through the air, and bells gently ringing, it feels like you’re a mile away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
9. Cave Villa
I could go on about Cave Villa all day. What a hidden gem! Despite being located just next to Batu Caves, Cave Villa is one of the most underrated things to do in Kuala Lumpur. It’s truly incredible!
As you enter, you walk on a bridge over a beautiful lake, filled with the biggest koi fish we’ve ever seen, as well as plenty of turtles.
Inside, you can enter two different caves, each one painted in bright colours with colourful statues depicting Hindu deities and stories. It is honestly incredible to see. We were blown away.
Not only that, but inside one of the caves is a reptile park, with all sorts of snakes, lizards, frogs, spiders, and turtles. You can also visit a bird park, take photos with a parrot, and watch a traditional dance performance.
We actually spent longer at Cave Villa than we did at Batu Caves, and preferred it significantly over the slightly overhyped attraction next door.
Best Parks In Kuala Lumpur
One thing we love most about any big city is the parks, nature, and green spaces. Whilst we love exploring big cities like KL, there’s something so refreshing about escaping to a park for a while.
10. Perdana Botanical Garden
Wandering through the Perdana Botanical Garden is something we have to do whenever we visit Kuala Lumpur. It’s one of our favourite places.
Located near the National Mosque, the botanical garden is huge. You could easily spend a morning wandering around, watching the beautiful birds, and immersing yourself in nature.
We loved the variety of landscapes here, with wooded sections, open green fields, a beautiful lake, rivers and waterfalls. It’s such a peaceful place.
11. KLCC Park
KLCC Park is absolutely beautiful. Located just below the Petronas Towers, it’s a really special place that you cannot miss on your Kuala Lumpur itinerary.
The gardens are beautifully presented, with the greenest grass we’ve ever seen, and paths weaving through tall trees. Just in front of the Petronas Towers is a large lake. There’s also a splash park for children, and so many beautiful photo opportunities of the Petronas Towers throughout the park.
Every evening, you can sit at the edge of the lake and watch the Symphony Park Water Show, a fountain show to music. It looks like the water is actually dancing. With the Petronas Towers as a backdrop, this is our favourite thing to do in Kuala Lumpur. Shows are at 8pm, 9pm, and 10pm daily.
Tip – If you like KLCC park but want something a little less touristy, head to Titiwangsa Park. You can hire bikes and cycle around the lake with the locals. We’ve never seen any other foreign tourists here!
City Highlights & Landmarks
Kuala Lumpur is filled with impressive skyscrapers and beautiful buildings that you really need to see!
12. Merdeka 118
Merdeka 118 is officially the second-tallest building in the world, measuring 679 metres. It towers over the city and can be seen from almost any point. Whilst construction is still underway, the vision is for it to become a mixed-use building, home to offices, shops, and a hotel (how cool does that sound?!). It even has its own stadium at the base.
Despite the interior construction continuing, you can visit Merdeka 118 now. The Park Hyatt hotel opened in August 2025, spanning the 97th-112th floors, making it one of the highest hotels in Southeast Asia.
The 118 Observation Deck on the 115th-116th floors is due to open in 2026 and I can imagine the view from up there will be epic. For now, however, the only way to experience Merdeka 118 is through a stay at The Park Hyatt.
13. Merdeka Square & Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Located in the heart of the city, Merdeka Square is the site of Malaysian independence, since 1957, with ‘merdeka’ translating to ‘freedom’. It is home to one of the tallest flagpoles in the world, with the Malysian flag hosted 95 metres in the air.
Merdeka Square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, including the Sultan Abdul Samad building, and the museum of textiles.
In the evenings, it comes alive with local families enjoying the cooler temperatures, flying kites, playing with bubbles, and enjoying the community atmosphere. It’s wonderful to experience.
14. The River Of Life
The River of Life is another unique Kuala Lumpur attraction which we turned out to love. It is the point at which the Klang and Gombak Rivers join, right in the heart of the city. It is only a short stroll from Merdeka Square. The walls of the building next to the river is covered in beautiful street art, which you don’t see too much of in Kuala Lumpur.
Plus, make sure you keep an eye out for crocodiles! We saw a sign warning us of them but didn’t quite believe it until a local confirmed it with photo evidence. Don’t worry, there’s no way of them getting out.
If you visit after 7pm, the river is lit up with bright blue lights. Every 15 minutes, mist starts billowing over the river, with a fountain show creating a surreal atmosphere at 9pm. Whilst everyone watches the KLCC fountain show, why not visit the River of Life for something a bit different, and a lot less touristy!
Kuala Lumpur’s Arts & Culture
Malaysia is famous for its street art and Kuala Lumpur is certainly no exception!
15. Islamic Arts Museum
The Islamic Arts Museum is the largest showcase of Islamic art in Southeast Asia, with exhibits from around the world. Islamic Art often encompasses repetitive patterns, carvings, and Arabic writing, and I honestly think it is so beautiful. We were first introduced to Islamic art in Morocco, and we’ve loved it ever since.
The Islamic Arts Museum building itself is beautiful and covered in traditional Islamic art, with domes and carvings in the ceilings. The art on display includes the Koran, carved wooden doors, paintings, textiles, and photography. It’s a full multi-media art museum.
Plus, it’s air conditioned so it’s a great place to escape the afternoon heat!
Entry Fee – 20 MYR per adult
16. Kwai Chai Hong
Located in Chinatown, Kwai Chai Hong is a beautiful little alley filled with street art. Many of the art pieces are interactive, making it a really fun place to visit. If you’ve visited Georgetown or Ipoh already, it may not be as impressive as the street art there, but it does make for some funny photos.
Kwai Chai Hong can get pretty busy, particularly in peak season, but its a fun little place to stop off at if you’re in the area.
17. Rex KL
Rex KL is another of those quirky spots that we didn’t really know what to expect from. And yet, we kinda loved it. It’s a cultural hub, built inside an old cinema. Inside, you’ll find quirky and artistic shops selling souvenirs, books, and trinkets.
There is a huge, very creative bookshop on the top floor that’s a whole experience in itself. It might just be the coolest bookshop I’ve ever been to (and I love a good bookshop).
With shelves acting as stairs, with ‘windows’ in them, see-through walkways, and atmospheric music, it’s more of a photo location than a bookshop. Despite this, we had so much fun exploring!
Best Malls In Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is famous for its shopping malls. No matter where you stay, you’re sure to have one within walking distance. Some of the best malls are located in Bukit Bintang, with full glass exteriors and shiny interiors, you have to experience them.
18. The Pavilion
The Pavilion is a multi-award-winning mall, with everything from high-end designer brands, to food outlets, a cinema, and even a karaoke bar.
It is definitely aimed at the upper-middle class shoppers, but it’s fun to explore. There’s often different displays located in the centre of the mall, and it’s particularly spectacular at Christmas.
If you’re after some more affordable brands, there are plenty of other malls around the Pavilion, so you can really make a day of it.
19. Berjaya Times Square
Berjaya Times Square is our favourite mall in Kuala Lumpur, and it’s got to be one of the most unique malls in the world. Not only is it absolutely huge, with 12 floors and shops stretching as far as you can see, it’s actually home to an indoor theme park.
We’re not talking a little merri-go-round type theme park. We’re talking a full roller coaster. Inside the shopping mall. It blows our mind.
Plus, there’s a cinema, bowling, indoor archery, arcade games, a musical staircase, on top of all the usual shops, local stalls, and food outlets.
If there’s one shopping mall you cannot miss in Kuala Lumpur, it has to be Berjaya Times Square.
Where To Stay In Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is a huge city, with so many incredible accommodation options, making it hard to know where to stay. Here’s our top picks for your first stay:
✅ Best Budget Option – Royce KLCC By Dormeo Destinations
Royce KLCC has several apartments and suites, with prices starting at just £30. It feels like a home away from home. The standout feature is the rooftop infinity pool with views of the Petronas Towers. This is a great option if you want a comfortable stay on a budget.
✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Impiana KLCC Hotel
The Impiana is in a strategic location, just 400m from the Petronas Towers and a 5-minute walk from The Pavilion. Its facilities include a swimming pool, gym, four different dining options, and a spa. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with some even having views of the Petronas Towers.
✅ Best Luxury Option – Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Located just 400m from both KLCC park and The Pavilion, the Grand Hyatt is one of the best-located luxury hotels in Kuala Lumpur. With an outdoor pool and a bar overlooking the Petronas Towers, it’s hard to get a better hotel than this. The best part? Rooms start from just £106 in high season, which is insane for a hotel of this calibre.
How To Get Around Kuala Lumpur
Despite being a big city, Kuala Lumpur is very easy and affordable to get around. Here’s the best options:
- Walk – Many of the attractions in the city centre are walking distance from one another. This is also a great way to discover hidden gems and cute cafés.
- Monorail or light railway – We use the monorail all the time. It’s a quick, cheap, and convenient way to explore. Tickets only cost a couple of ringgit, depending on how far you’re going.
- Rapid KL Buses – Rapid KL buses are less reliable than the monorail or light railway, however they’re a cheap and effective way to get around.
- Grab – Grab is the Southeast Asian form of Uber, and it’s incredibly affordable. We recommend using Grab for longer or more complicated journeys, such as to get to Batu Caves
- Airport Transfer – The best way to reach Kuala Lumpur from the airport is to book a private transfer in advance, especially if flying into KLIA as it’s around an hour from the centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have a few questions about the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur? We’ve answered the most common questions below.
Is Kuala Lumpur Safe?
We’ve personally found Kuala Lumpur to be a very safe city, and the people are so friendly. We recommend exercising the same precautions that you would in any major city around the world, such as not going out by yourself at night and being mindful of your belongings.
You will likely see a high security and police presence in major tourist areas and at the entrance to many buildings and malls. This is a very normal thing in Malaysia so don’t be alarmed.
Is KL A Walkable City?
Kuala Lumpur is a very big city, and some attractions can be pretty spread out. Some parts are certainly walkable, such as Chinatown, or KLCC, however you will likely need public transport or Grab to reach places such as Batu Caves or the Federal Territory Mosque. We recommend planning your itinerary strategically so you’re not spreading yourself too far on one day.
How Many Days Should I Spend In Kuala Lumpur?
We recommend spending between 3-5 days in Kuala Lumpur. 3 days will give you a nice overview of the city, whilst 5 will let you dive a bit deeper and explore some lesser-visited places. We’ve spent a month in KL now and still haven’t had enough of it!
Wrap Up
Kuala Lumpur is like our home away from home. It’s an amazing, vibrant, and modern city, and a great place to explore.
There are so many incredible things to do in Kuala Lumpur, from stunning temples to peaceful parks. And of course, a special mention to its shopping malls – they’re some of the best in the world. No matter what your travel style and preferences, we’re sure you’ll find tonnes to do in Kuala Lumpur.
We hope you end up loving the city as much as we do.
PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP
OUR TRAVEL RESOURCES
Fly
Tours
Found This Post Helpful? Pin It For Later!
