Trains & Boats

If the journey is part of the joy for you, consider spending a few nights on a luxurious train. A rail journey aboard the classic Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Penang will take you all the way through Malaysia. We recommend the 6-day journey on which you’ll stop for the day in Kuala Lumpur, overnight in the Cameron Highlands, and have a full day to see one of our favourite parts of Malaysia: Penang.

As of 2025, we are not currently working with any boats for overnight travel in western Malaysia but if this appeals, please reach out and we’ll advise what might be on offer.

Eastern & Oriental Express

Travelling on the Eastern & Oriental Express (the E&O) is a truly unique way to experience Southeast Asia. It has two routes that start and end in Singapore running up the length of Malaysia on different paths based on the time of year. We recommend stopping for a few nights in Langkawi or Penang before the return journey to Singapore.

Kuala Lumpur

Bustling, vibrant Kuala Lumpur is home to an incredible array of old and new. Colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, gourmet restaurants and simple street food stalls, luxurious hotels and shops, beautiful parks, mosques, and temples fill the city. The city is truly a feast for all five senses. More

Melaka

The port town of Melaka (formerly spelled Malacca) has been influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese, Indian, and Malay settlers and rulers. The resulting mix of culture, food, and architecture makes Melaka an ideal spot to see, taste, and experience the diversity that makes Malaysia such a unique part of Asia. Although you can visit in a day from Kuala Lumpur, we think it's worth an overnight visit. More

George Town

On the island of Penang sits the UNESCO-designated cultural highlight of George Town. It's home to some of the best food in the country, street art fun for all ages to find and enjoy, Chinese and Indian temples, British colonial buildings, pleasant beaches, a hill with stunning views of the area, and delightful boutique hotels. George Town truly offers a wealth of options for every visitor. More

Langkawi

Formally known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah, the island boasts beaches, rainforest, monkeys, mangroves, and views to Thailand from an incredible hanging bridge atop Mount Mat. More

Cameron Highlands

Once the favoured hill station of British expatriates in Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands is a cool respite from the tropical heat. Tea plantations, giant rafflesia blooms, and a mossy forest that feels straight out of a story book can all be found here. More

Tioman Island

Well known to divers, Tioman is home to incredibly rich waters teeming with life, making for great snorkelling and diving. With beautiful beaches and pleasant walking trails through the jungle, it's a beautiful place to relax. Best visited March through mid-October as we don't recommend trying to reach the island during monsoon season. More

Perhentian Islands

The clear aquamarine South China Sea meets white sand beaches on the Perhentian and Redang islands. There are no roads on these islands, only foot paths and water taxis. We only recommend visiting between April and mid-October to avoid rough crossings and restaurants and resorts closed for monsoon season. More