Tremendously varied, Malaysia is a too-often underrated Asian holiday destination. We adore exploring its bustling cities, hiking through dense rainforest to spot birds and monkeys, and unwinding on the golden beaches of its tranquil islands. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with friends and family, Malaysia is a hugely appealing country to discover, with a superb array of excellent accommodation options fit for a range of tastes and budgets. Featuring beautiful beach resorts, city boltholes and restful nature-focused retreats, our list of the best places to stay in Malaysia promises the perfect guide to get you started.
Some of our Malaysia collections:
Glitzy Kuala Lumpur offers a marvellous introduction to Malaysia, or a stand-alone destination for a fun-filled city break. Expect imposing heritage buildings, fantastic museums, hip speakeasies and world-class dining options in a city that never sleeps. For a sense of the historic Straits trading ports which brought immense wealth to the region, journey to Malacca or Penang; easily accessible by train and ferry. Both well-preserved and appealingly walkable cities are brilliant for culture buffs, art lovers and foodies. Penang’s street food is famously unparalleled.
For cooler climes, head up to Ipoh and the Cameron Highlands, home to vast tea plantations and farmland. Beachgoers, on the other hand, will find gorgeous hotels and resorts on buzzy Langkawi or peaceful Pangkor. If you’re dreaming of adventurous hikes, canopy walks, diving and wildlife spotting, look no further than the Malaysian part of Borneo, known for its rare orang-utans and extensive conservation efforts. With a vast array of natural wonders, this really is a magical country to discover. Plot your route from one of the best places to stay in Malaysia to another, and prepare to soak it all in!