Kuala Lumpur is such a great city in Malaysia, and I absolutely fell in love with it during my week there! From the food to the architecture to the big city atmosphere, it will always be one of my favorite places in Southeast Asia. To help you fall in love with KL like I did, even if you just have a few days, I’ve created a 3 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary!
Keep reading for the ultimate 3 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary, which maximizes your time in the city to make sure you see the best places and eat the best food.
Published: April 8, 2025
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The Best 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary
Kuala Lumpur is a city full of culture, modern skyscrapers, and amazing food. This 3 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary covers the best things to do, including tours, a light show at the Petronas Towers, and a trip to the Batu Caves, plus options for a day trip.
Day 1: Welcome to Kuala Lumpur
Morning
Start your trip with a guided walking tour to learn about Kuala Lumpur’s history and culture. A walking tour is a great way to explore landmarks in KL while learning about the city’s past. You can also ask your tour guide for recommendations, tips, and more.
After the tour, head to Jalan Masjid India or Central Market to explore local shops and buy souvenirs.
Lunch
For lunch, try Restoran Yut Kee, a famous spot for Hainanese chicken chop, kaya toast, and roasted pork.
Afternoon
Visit the iconic Petronas Towers and go up to the observation deck for a view of the city. This is one of the tallest buildings in the world, and from the 86th floor, you can see the whole Kuala Lumpur skyline.
Then, head to KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur) for another panoramic view of the city. You can also grab lunch or dinner here while you enjoy the views.
Evening
For dinner, take a street food tour or join a Malaysian cooking class to learn how to make local dishes like nasi lemak, satay, and roti canai.
After dinner, see the Petronas Towers light show at KLCC Park, which happens every night at 8:00 PM, 9:00 PM, and 10:00 PM. The fountains and lights make for a great photo opportunity.
Day 2: Batu Caves, Chinatown, and Cultural Sites
Morning
Start your second day early at Batu Caves, one of the most famous attractions in Malaysia. The earlier you arrive, the fewer crowds you’ll find. I went at 7 AM, and I was only one of four people I saw for the first hour.
This Hindu temple complex features a 272-step climb up to the main cave, with colorful stairs and a towering golden statue of Lord Murugan at the entrance.
Take your time exploring the Temple Cave, Dark Cave (if open), and Ramayana Cave, each offering a different experience. Keep an eye out for monkeys—they can be mischievous and will try to take your belongings if you aren’t careful!
Lunch
After returning to the city, head to Jalan Alor, one of the best streets for food, and try dishes like char kway teow, Hokkien mee, and grilled seafood.
Afternoon
After eating lunch, head to Chinatown, one of the most vibrant areas in Kuala Lumpur. Walk through Petaling Street, the heart of Chinatown, where you can shop for souvenirs, street food, and traditional Chinese herbs.
Next, visit Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur, known for its colorful tower with detailed carvings of Hindu deities. Then, stop by Guan Di Temple, a Chinese temple dedicated to the God of War.
Before leaving Chinatown, check out Kwai Chai Hong, a restored alleyway filled with murals that showcase the history of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinese community.
Evening
For dinner, go to Changkat Bukit Bintang, a lively street with bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Try Malaysian fusion dishes or enjoy a drink at one of the rooftop bars.
Day 3: Parks, Museums, and Local Neighborhoods
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Morning
Ready for day 3 in Kuala Lumpur? You have two options: hang out in the city visiting parks and gardens, or take a day trip outside of the city (check out the next section for ideas!)
Start your day at the Perdana Botanical Gardens, one of the largest green spaces in the city. This peaceful park is perfect for a morning walk, and you can also visit nearby attractions like the KL Bird Park or Orchid Garden if you want to spend more time outdoors.
After the park, head to the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, which is one of the best museums in Southeast Asia. The museum is well-organized and includes displays of Islamic architecture, textiles, ceramics, and calligraphy.
Lunch
From the museum, walk or take a short ride to Kampung Baru, a historic Malay neighborhood surrounded by skyscrapers. This is a great spot for lunch—try traditional dishes like nasi lemak, satay, or ikan bakar (grilled fish) at one of the open-air stalls or local restaurants.
Afternoon
After lunch, head over to Bukit Bintang, one of KL’s main shopping and entertainment districts. Explore the shopping malls (like Pavilion or Lot 10), grab a snack at Jalan Alor, or relax at a café.
Then visit Thean Hou Temple, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in the city. It offers views over the skyline and a peaceful break from the busy city streets.
Evening
For your final night in KL, head to the Petronas Twin Towers area again for the Lake Symphony Light and Music Show. If you haven’t already, this is also a good time to visit the observation deck at one of the city’s tallest buildings (either KL Tower or Petronas Towers) for panoramic views.
Wrap up your trip with dinner at one of the restaurants in Suria KLCC mall or nearby, with a view of the towers lit up at night.
Day Trips From Kuala Lumpur
One way you can change your 3 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary is by spending one of your days outside Kuala Lumpur. Here are three great options for a day trip from the city:
Option 1: Malacca (2 hours away)
- Explore Jonker Street, a historic street filled with cafes and antique shops
- Visit A Famosa Fort and St. Paul’s Church
- Walk along the Malacca River
- Try chicken rice balls and cendol, a local dessert
Option 2: Cameron Highlands (3.5 hours away)
- Visit tea plantations and enjoy a tea tasting
- Walk through Mossy Forest, a beautiful misty jungle
- Explore strawberry farms and butterfly gardens
- Try fresh strawberries, scones, and steamboat (hot pot)
Option 3: Ipoh (2.5 hours away)
- Visit Kellie’s Castle, an unfinished mansion with a mysterious history
- Explore the cave temples, like Perak Cave Temple
- Walk around the Ipoh Old Town for street art and coffee shops
- Try Ipoh white coffee, chicken rice, and salted chicken
No matter which day trip you choose, you will see a different side of Malaysia before heading back to Kuala Lumpur in the evening.
Tours to Book in Kuala Lumpur
Booking a tour in Kuala Lumpur is a great way to maximize your time there and see the top sites. Plus, there are a huge variety of tours, so everyone can find something that interests them!
Here are the top tours in Kuala Lumpur:
Tips For Visiting Kuala Lumpur
Here are some helpful tips for your three-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary:
- Use Grab for transportation – Taxis can be unreliable, so use Grab (the local ride-hailing app) for affordable and convenient rides.
- Start early at Batu Caves – Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and the heat. Wear comfortable shoes for the 272-step climb.
- Dress modestly for religious sites – If you visit temples or mosques, wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders. Some places provide sarongs if needed.
- Bring cash – Many street food stalls and markets only accept cash, so carry small bills and coins for convenience.
- Stay near Bukit Bintang or KLCC – These areas are central, well-connected, and full of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
- Try local street food – Don’t miss Jalan Alor, Chinatown, and Little India for some of the best street food in the city.
- Be prepared for humidity – Kuala Lumpur is hot and humid year-round. Carry a water bottle, sunscreen, and an umbrella for sudden rain showers.
- Visit Petronas Towers in the evening – The best time for photos is at sunset, and the light show at KLCC Park happens every night at 8 PM, 9 PM, and 10 PM.
- Book major attractions in advance – If you plan to visit Petronas Towers, KL Tower, or join guided tours, book your tickets early to secure your spot.
- Bargain at street markets – If you’re shopping in places like Chinatown, don’t be afraid to negotiate for better prices.
These tips will help you navigate Kuala Lumpur smoothly and make the most of your visit!
Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur
To make the most of your time in Kuala Lumpur, you want to stay somewhere with good reviews in a good location. Check out these great hotels and home rentals at the best prices: