Malaysia Round Trip with a Baby or Toddler – Route, Tips & Highlights

Malaysia is a country full of contrasts – modern cities, dense rainforests, paradise-like beaches, diverse cultures, and a tropical climate make it a truly unique travel destination.
But is it also suitable for a round trip with a baby or toddler? Our answer: Absolutely!

For us, it quickly became clear that we wanted to experience Malaysia in all its diversity.
Staying in just one place was out of the question – so we set off on a journey across the country with our 10-month-old baby.
Looking back, we can say: Malaysia was not only beautiful and incredibly family-friendly, but also surprisingly easy to travel with a baby.

In this post, we’ll take you along on our journey through Malaysia and share valuable tips for traveling with a baby.
You'll learn all about our route, along with plenty of practical travel advice to help make your round trip as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.

GETTING AROUND DURING A MALAYSIA ROAD TRIP

Before we dive into our route, we’d like to touch on one of the most important aspects of a round trip: getting around the country.
Compared to its neighboring countries, Malaysia is relatively small, but depending on your itinerary, you might still need to cover some longer distances.
That’s why it’s worth planning the best mode of transportation for both short and long journeys in advance.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options – many of them surprisingly affordable.
Which means of transportation is right for you depends on your budget and the distance you need to cover.
During our round trip, we tried several methods – from flights and trains to private drivers and Grab rides.

We’ve shared all our tips and experiences in the following posts:

• Malaysia Travel Planning – Essential Tips & Insights for your Dream Trip
• Traveling Malaysia with a Baby - Tips, Facts & Our Experiences

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR EXPLORING MALAYSIA WITH LITTLE ONES

• Choose accommodations with a pool – Perfect for a refreshing break during the day or to cool off after a long day of exploring.
• Book only places with air conditioning – Especially important for nap times, so your child can rest comfortably.
• Keep your travel itinerary flexible – Fewer stops and, if possible, shorter distances make the journey more relaxed for the whole family.
• Train travel with a baby or toddler? No problem! – Trains in Malaysia are modern, clean, and comfortable, similar to commuter or high-speed trains in many countries. They offer a convenient and family-friendly way to travel between cities.
• Baby food & diapers – Easy to find in big cities, but much less available in rural areas.
• Rice, noodles & fruit are available everywhere.
• Babies and children are warmly welcomed in Malaysia – Parents and little ones can expect lots of friendly attention and helpfulness.
• Changing facilities – Mostly available only in malls and at the airport, so bringing your own changing mat is especially handy.
• Stroller and baby carrier – Both work well in Malaysia. In cities like Kuala Lumpur, a stroller is convenient, while in rural areas or at sights, a carrier is often more practical.

You’ll find all additional tips and our personal experiences in our post Traveling Malaysia with a Baby - Tips, Facts & Our Experiences.

OUR MALAYSIA ITINERARY

Malaysia was the second country we visited during our five-month parental leave trip through Southeast Asia.
Since we had been in Thailand before, we entered Malaysia overland by taxi (you can find a detailed guide here: How to Cross the Border from Thailand to Malaysia: Train, Bus, Shuttle, Taxi or on Foot).
That probably won’t apply to you – most likely, you’ll enter the country via Kuala Lumpur’s international airport.
From there, it’s easy to continue your journey with a domestic flight.

For our full route, we recommend planning at least three weeks.
If you have less time, it’s best to skip Borneo due to the long travel distances, so you can fully enjoy the other destinations at a more relaxed pace.

By the way: Curious to know which other countries we visited during our five-month parental leave trip through Southeast Asia and what we experienced there? Then feel free to check out the following posts:

• Traveling Cambodia with a Baby – Tips, Useful Information & Our Experiences
• Bali Round Trip with a Baby – Route, Tips & Highlights
• Thailand Round Trip with a Baby - Route, Tips & Highlights
• Vietnam Round Trip with a Toddler – Itinerary, Tips & Highlights

1. GEORGE TOWN – ON THE ISLAND OF PENANG

Our accommodation: Modern Suite
Recommended stay: 2 to 4 days

After crossing the border from Thailand, our train journey ended in Butterworth, Malaysia.
From there, it’s easy to reach the ferry terminal via a pedestrian overpass.
The ferry takes you to Penang Island in just a few minutes.
If you're traveling by rental car instead, you can reach the island via one of the two bridges that connect it to the mainland.

When we arrived in George Town, the island’s capital, we were greeted by a humid 38°C and tropical heat.
Since our wonderful accommodation was located a bit outside the city center, we took a Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) to get there comfortably – and most importantly, with air conditioning.

The farther we got from the harbor and the city center, the taller the buildings seemed to become.
Our accommodation was also located in one of the many high-rises that shape George Town’s skyline.
It was our first time staying in one of these residential complexes that are so typical for Malaysian cities.

We were surprised at how well-equipped these residential complexes are – in theory, you wouldn’t even have to leave the building.
There’s everything you need: a pool, a gym, a playground, a mini market, a pharmacy, restaurants, and even a hair salon.

Of course, we still wanted to explore the city and the island.
But especially during the midday heat, it was nice to stay inside the air-conditioned building – and to have everything we needed right on site.

That’s why we can absolutely recommend our accommodation, the Modern Suite – perfect for both exploring and relaxing.

Here’s a brief overview of sights and activities you can explore and enjoy in George Town with a baby or toddler:

GEORGE TOWN'S OLD TOWN & HISTORIC SHOPHOUSES

George Town’s historic center offers a fascinating contrast to the modern city around it – no high-rises or glass facades here, but instead a well-preserved district full of history and character.

Admittedly, the old town buildings may look a bit run-down at first glance: peeling paint, faded colors, weathered facades. But that’s exactly what gives the area its unique charm.

The so-called shophouses, found throughout the old town, mostly date back to the period between the 1890s and 1910s.
Their concept remains unchanged to this day: small shops, cafés, or workshops operate on the ground floor, while the upper level and rear areas serve as living spaces.

One typical feature of the shophouses is the five-foot way – a covered walkway about 1.5 meters wide that often connects multiple houses in a row.
It’s perfect for strolling through the streets in sun or rain – that is, if scooters or other obstacles aren’t blocking the path.

STREET ART

For us, the street art is one of the most impressive sights in George Town.
One of the most famous pieces is Boy on Motorbike by Ernest Zacharevic – but beyond that, there are many more artworks waiting to be discovered.
Most murals and graffiti spots are marked on Google Maps, making it easy to explore them on your own.

Getting around George Town: While distances in George Town and on the island can be longer than expected, we mostly relied on Grab for getting from place to place. That said, the city center is very walkable, and many spots can be comfortably explored on foot – even with a stroller.

For trips to sights outside the city center, we always took a Grab. Depending on your destination, it’s often better to use a baby carrier instead of a stroller, as there are frequently stairs and uneven paths.

CLAN  JETTIES

The Clan Jetties are among George Town’s cultural highlights.
Located right along the coast, they consist of six preserved stilt villages, each named after a Chinese clan – including Chew, Lee, and Lim.
They were established in the late 19th century, when Chinese immigrants settled directly over the water to avoid paying land tax – a loophole that, interestingly, still exists today.
The most famous is the Chew Jetty, where small shops and snack stalls now invite visitors to stroll and explore.
Still, local families continue to live here under modest conditions in the old wooden houses, so it’s important to visit with respect.

Our tip: We visited with a stroller but wouldn’t recommend it. The narrow, uneven wooden walkways are hard to manage with wheels – a baby carrier is definitely the better option here.

PENANG HILL

Our absolute highlight is located about 7 km outside the city center and is easily accessible by Grab or public transport: Penang Hill.
It’s a popular excursion spot for both locals and tourists.

Despite the name, Penang Hill isn’t a single mountain, but a range of hills with several peaks – including Bukit Laksamana, Tiger Hill, and Government Hill.
The highest point is Western Hill, rising 833 meters above sea level.

You can either hike up – which we wouldn’t recommend with a baby or toddler in the heat – or take the funicular train, which takes you to the top station in about 15 minutes in comfort.

Our tip: To avoid long queues at the base station – especially caused by cruise ship tourists and school groups – it’s best to go early in the morning, ideally before 10 am.

Once at the top, you’ll immediately notice how much cooler and fresher the air feels. You’ll find a spacious area that offers something for both kids and adults.

Right at the beginning, you’ll pass the Skywalk – a nearly 360-degree viewing platform with stunning views over George Town and the coast.
On clear days, you can even see as far as Butterworth.

Aside from the fantastic views, the real star of Penang Hill is nature itself.
The area is home to one of the last remaining tropical rainforest zones on the island and has been designated a protected area since 1960.
It’s home to many rare plant and animal species – a true paradise for nature lovers.

One of the absolute highlights of our visit was The Habitat.
While there’s an extra entrance fee, we truly think it’s worth it.
The 1.6-kilometer nature trail leads you right through the tropical jungle – a wonderful experience for both kids and adults.

Right at the beginning, we were greeted by a group of monkeys – a fascinating moment, especially for our little one.
Along the trail, you’ll find unique plants, various animals, and informative stations.

A special highlight is the Langur Way Canopy Walk, a long suspension bridge.
High above the ground, you walk past the treetops and get a whole new perspective on the rainforest.
The trail is well maintained, so it’s easy to manage with a baby in a carrier or a toddler walking beside you.

Another must-see is the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk.
From the viewing platform, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking 360° view over Penang, the Penang Bridge, and the surrounding mainland – absolutely stunning!

You can find tickets for your visit to The Habitat here: Ticket The Habitat

If your child needs a break to burn off some energy, it’s worth stopping by the playground near the Hindu temple and the mosque.
There you’ll find slides, a climbing frame, a seesaw, and spring riders.

You should plan at least half a day for your visit to Penang Hill – ideally a full day.
While you can technically bring a stroller, we recommend using a baby carrier instead.
Some of the paths in The Habitat are narrow, and the terrain is generally quite hilly.

The funicular train runs daily from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm.
From 6:30 to 8:00 am and from 8:00 to 11:00 pm, it departs every 30 minutes; during the day (8:00 am to 8:00 pm), it runs every 15 minutes.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the ticket counter.

KEK LOK SI TEMPLE

Kek Lok Si Temple, whose name means “Temple of Supreme Bliss,” is located on a hill in a suburb of George Town, about a 30-minute drive from the city center.
It is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and an important cultural and spiritual center for the Chinese-Malaysian community.

The expansive temple complex can roughly be divided into three sections:

Lower section: Here you’ll find the parking area, the main entrance, and the first station of the inclined lift (which requires a small fee).
The lift conveniently takes you through parts of the complex.
This area also includes several smaller temple buildings, souvenir shops, and a small restaurant.

Middle section: In the middle of the complex, you'll find more temple halls, the Pavilion of the Four Heavenly Kings, and a lovely garden.
The highlight here is the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, an impressive multi-tiered structure.
If you’re using the lift, you’ll need to get off in this section and transfer to a golf cart for the next part of the ride, as the lift doesn't go all the way through.

Upper section: At the very top stands the famous Kuan Yin statue, surrounded by additional temples, a peaceful garden with a fish pond, and another souvenir shop.
The bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy stands nearly 37 meters tall, making it one of the largest statues in Malaysia.
A grand pavilion with 16 ornately decorated columns shelters the statue from the elements – a truly impressive sight.

To return, you can take the lift down again, or – like we did – walk down the scenic temple road.
It’s quiet, relaxed, and offers great views. You can also hike up this way, but be prepared for a serious workout in the heat.

The Kek Lok Si Temple is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, and admission is free. Only the lift ride requires a small fee.

The easiest way to reach the temple from the city center is by Grab – usually the fastest and most convenient option.

Using a stroller inside the temple grounds is possible in theory, but since there are many stairs, we found a baby carrier to be much more practical.

FERRINGHI BAY BEACH

Enough culture and sightseeing – now it’s time to cool off!
The beautiful golden sandy beach of Batu Ferringhi is located about 40 minutes from the city center and is perfect for a relaxed afternoon by the sea.
With swimwear, a few snacks, and some cold drinks in your bag, it’s an ideal spot to unwind.

Just keep in mind that Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country. Out of respect for the local culture, it’s best not to wear anything too revealing at the beach.

SHOPPING IN GEORGE TOWN

If you’re in the mood for a bit of Western-style shopping, you’ll also find what you’re looking for on the way to Batu Ferringhi.
The large, air-conditioned Gurney Plaza offers a wide range of stores – from international brands to local boutiques.
There’s also a well-stocked supermarket with baby essentials and a food court serving a variety of cuisines.

Especially on hot days, the mall is a great place to escape the sun and midday heat for a little while.

GOOD TO KNOW

You might need a power adapter for your trip to Malaysia, as the country uses plug type G (the same type used in the UK).
Standard plugs from many other countries – such as type C or type F (common in Europe), type A/B (common in North America), or others – typically won’t fit.
You can find the right one here: Malaysia Travel Adapter.

2. KUCHING – ON THE ISLAND OF BORNEO

Our accommodation: LoFF Suite 2 Bedroom at Kuching Riverine Resort
Recommended stay: 3 to 5 days

Kuching is the capital of the Malaysian state of Sarawak and, with around 635,000 inhabitants, the largest city on the island of Borneo.
The name Kuching sounds like the Malay word for "cat" (kucing) – and that feline theme is visible everywhere: cat statues, murals, and even a dedicated cat museum shape the city’s look and feel.
As charming as Kuching is, for many travelers – ourselves included – the real appeal lies in its location: the city is the perfect base for exploring some of Borneo’s most spectacular natural wonders and national parks.

Here’s a brief overview of sights and activities you can explore and enjoy in Kuching with a baby or toddler:

SEMENGGOH WILDLIFE CENTER

If you want to see orangutans in (almost) the wild, the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is the place to be!
Orangutans live only in Southeast Asia and exist in two species: the Sumatran orangutan and the Bornean orangutan.
For us, visiting the center was an absolute must during our time in Borneo – and luckily, it’s perfectly doable with a baby or toddler.

The most important thing: during feeding times, it’s essential to stay quiet – loud noises can scare the orangutans away.

The center is located on the outskirts of Kuching and can be reached by Grab in about 30 minutes.
Covering an area of around 750 hectares, the reserve was founded to help injured, orphaned, or formerly captive orangutans learn to survive in the wild.
About 30 semi-wild individuals currently live in the reserve, where they are gradually taught to find food and navigate the jungle again – supported by experienced rangers.

The center plays an important role not only in conservation, but also in research.
Many orangutans are successfully reintroduced into the wild – a great example of how responsible tourism and wildlife protection can go hand in hand.

The highlight for most visitors is the twice-daily feeding sessions.
Although the orangutans live freely in the surrounding forest, many return to the center at feeding time.
Rangers call them with special vocal cues – and those interested in a snack make their way to the feeding platform.
Of course, there’s no guarantee they’ll show up – which makes it all the more special when one suddenly emerges from the jungle.

Feeding times are daily from 9:00 to 10:00 am and 3:00 to 3:30 pm.

Food is placed at two different locations: one in the forest and another near the visitor gathering area, right at the edge of the jungle.
We were incredibly lucky – the orangutans appeared at both feeding sites.
First in the dense forest, and later just a few meters away from the main viewing area.
They came surprisingly close – a true highlight! Since these are wild animals, rangers make sure everyone keeps a safe distance, especially if an orangutan is on the ground.

Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance.
While guided tours from Kuching are available, we found them overpriced and unnecessary.
Visiting independently is easy and much more flexible.

Make sure to arrive early – at least 45 minutes before feeding time.
The walk from the entrance to the feeding platform takes about 30 minutes, or you can take a shuttle bus for a small fee.

The path to the platform is a bit uneven and root-covered, so a baby carrier is definitely more practical than a stroller. And don’t forget: bring plenty of water and mosquito repellent!

BAKO NATIONAL PARK

Just about a 40-minute drive from Kuching lies Bako National Park – a small natural gem located on a peninsula in northwestern Borneo.
At only 27 square kilometers, it’s the smallest national park in Sarawak, but also one of the most popular in all of Malaysia – and for good reason.

For us, it was one of the main reasons we came to Borneo in the first place.
Because this is where they live: the famous proboscis monkeys, which can only be found on this island.
In addition to these fascinating creatures, Bako National Park offers impressive biodiversity and landscapes ranging from dense rainforest and mangroves to dramatic coastlines – a true nature highlight.

What we experienced in Bako, how we managed the visit with a baby, whether a trip with a baby or toddler is even worth it, and of course many practical tips – you’ll find all that in our dedicated post: Bako National Park in Borneo with a Baby or Toddler – Tips & Experience.

Kuching Waterfront & the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly

In addition to the fascinating nature experiences around Kuching, the city itself has plenty to offer.
Our personal highlight? Without a doubt: the Kuching Waterfront – a lively meeting point along the Sarawak River.

The modern and well-designed riverside promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk, a jog, or simply to sit and take in the surroundings.
With plenty of benches and shaded spots, it’s the ideal place to take a break from sightseeing.

As night falls, the Kuching Waterfront comes to life.
Bathed in warm light, the promenade fills with locals and tourists enjoying the evening in a relaxed atmosphere.
Food stalls open, the scent of local specialties fills the air, and families and friends gather – on benches, picnic blankets, or the stone steps along the riverbank.
We were in the city during Ramadan, and the atmosphere along the waterfront was especially unique in the evenings.
Even before sunset, many locals gathered along the promenade, laying out the food they had brought with them and waiting together for the fast to end.
When the sun finally set, people began to eat, laugh, and enjoy the evening together in a peaceful and joyful mood.
It was an authentic glimpse into local life – one that truly stayed with us.

Unmissable across the river is the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
With its striking golden dome, the building has been one of Borneo’s most iconic landmarks since its inauguration in 2009 by the Malaysian King, Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
The true highlight takes place every evening in front of the building: a music, water, and light show that begins precisely at 8:30 pm and lasts around 15 minutes.
Water fountains up to 25 meters high dance in sync with the music, while colorful lighting and laser effects transform the area into a vibrant spectacle.
The show is free of charge and attracts both tourists and locals – a perfect way to end a day in Kuching.

Right next to the State Assembly building, the Darul Hana Bridge spans the river.
This 336-meter-long pedestrian bridge, with its striking curved design, not only offers a convenient connection between both riverbanks but also provides fantastic views of the waterfront scenery. Especially in the evening, when the bridge lights up in changing colors, it becomes a popular spot for photos.

Just a short walk away is the Kuching Mosque, picturesquely located right on the river. Especially at sunset, it offers a beautiful and peaceful view.

SHOPPING AND AWESOME INDOOR PLAY AREA

If you’re in the mood for shopping, Vivacity Megamall is a great place to go.
This modern, spacious mall is easy and affordable to reach by Grab.
You’ll find just about everything you could wish for – from international brands and local shops to cozy cafés and restaurants.
Whether you’re looking to shop or simply escape the midday heat, this is the perfect spot.

The best part of the mall? On the top floor, there’s a real highlight for kids – the indoor playground Kidszoona.
This colorful play area is part of a popular Malaysian chain that you’ll also find in other cities.
It offers plenty of space for running, climbing, and playing.
Our daughter wasn’t even a year old yet, but she still had a fantastic time!
Children under two get free admission (along with one accompanying adult) after registering for a membership card.
A second adult pays only a small fee. For us, it was the perfect way to escape the sun for a few hours.
Our little one could move around safely, practice walking on the flat surface, and interact with other children.

Getting around in Kuching: Depending on where you’re staying, the city center of Kuching is easy to explore on foot – even with a stroller.
Most walkways are flat, and many of the main sights are located close together.
For trips outside the city center, such as to national parks or shopping malls, we used Grab, which is fast, reliable, and affordable.
When heading into nature, we definitely recommend using a baby carrier instead of a stroller. The paths in those areas are not suitable for wheels.

3. IPOH

Our accommodation: Bedrock Hotel
Recommended stay: 2 to 3 days

After an eventful time on the green island of Borneo, our round trip continued – next stop: the city of Ipoh on the Malaysian mainland.
To get there, we first flew back to George Town, on Penang Island.
From there, we took a Grab to the train station in Butterworth, where we caught the express train directly to Ipoh – a smooth and comfortable connection that we can highly recommend.
‍
Want to learn more about train travel in Malaysia? Then check out our post Malaysia Travel Planning – Essential Tips & Insights for your Dream Trip.

Originally, Ipoh was meant to be just a stopover for us – but looking back, we would have loved to stay another night.
So here’s our clear recommendation: plan at least two nights to truly take in Ipoh’s charm at a relaxed pace.

What really stuck with us was the incredibly friendly and chatty owner of our small hotel.
With her warm and open nature (a true chatterbox – in the best possible way!), she not only gave us great tips on what to see in the city but also organized our train tickets for the next day – including reserved seats on the express train to Kuala Lumpur, which is often fully booked days in advance.

The hotel itself was modern, thoughtfully decorated, and centrally located.
Many of Ipoh’s highlights were within walking distance or just a short Grab ride away.
If you’re looking for a charming and well-connected place to stay in Ipoh, we can wholeheartedly recommend this hotel.

Since we only had half a day in Ipoh, we focused mainly on the impressive street art in the city center.
One of the most popular spots to see it is Mural Arts Lane – a narrow alley between Jalan Sultan Iskandar and Jalan Masjid, where once dull walls are now covered with dozens of colorful murals.

If you’d like to discover even more, the Ipoh Mural Art Trail is definitely worth checking out.
It’s a signposted route through the old town that takes you to the most well-known murals.
You can get a map at the tourist information center or directly from your accommodation.

While strolling through Ipoh’s old town, you’ll also come across charming street cafés, traditional shops, and small boutiques selling local handicrafts.
The architecture is heavily influenced by the British colonial era – many historical colonial-style buildings are still well preserved and give the city its very own character.
It’s where history meets modern urban life – a mix that, for us, makes Ipoh’s old town a truly worthwhile place to visit.

4. KUALA LUMPUR

Our accommodation: Queen Suites Tropicana The Residence
Recommended stay: 3 to 5 days

In the afternoon, we boarded the ETS express train in Ipoh, which took us comfortably to Kuala Lumpur in around two and a half hours.
The journey was smooth and quiet – a great way to travel through the country in a relaxed manner.

As soon as we arrived at KL Sentral, the city’s main train station, we felt the contrast: Malaysia’s capital is loud, vibrant, and impressive.
Towering skyscrapers, busy streets, colorful lights, and a fascinating mix of cultures, smells, and sounds welcomed us.

Even within the first few steps, we noticed: time moves differently here – faster, louder, and more intense. But that’s exactly what gives this captivating capital its unique charm.

Our modern accommodation was located – as is common in many Malaysian cities – in a high-rise complex right in the center of Kuala Lumpur.
When booking, it was important to us that we could easily reach many of the city’s main attractions on foot, by public transport, or via Grab.
Another highlight was the rooftop pool.
After a long day full of impressions, it was the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view.
We can wholeheartedly recommend this accommodation – it’s well located, well equipped, and ideal for a city trip to Kuala Lumpur.

Here’s a brief overview of sights and activities you can explore and enjoy in Kuala Lumpur with a baby or toddler:

PETRONAS TOWERS

A photo with the famous twin towers is simply a must when visiting KL.
For us, an outside view was more than enough – and of course, it’s completely free!
You get a perfect view of the city’s iconic landmark right from the street.

KLCC PARK

Right behind the Petronas Towers lies the beautiful KLCC Park – in our opinion, the most child-friendly place in Kuala Lumpur.
There you’ll find a huge, free playground with plenty of shade and a large splash area – perfect even for the little ones.

MERDEKA SQUARE

Merdeka Square is rich in history and full of fascinating architecture. It’s perfect for a short walk or a photo stop, with plenty of open space for your child to run around.

MENARA KL TOWER & KL FOREST ECO PARK

The KL Tower offers a great view over the city.
Right next to it is the KL Forest Eco Park – a small patch of rainforest with hanging bridges and short walking trails right in the middle of the city.
You can conveniently book your tickets online here: Admission Ticket KL Tower & KL Forest Eco Park.

BUKIT BINTANG

As the sun begins to set, the trendy district of Bukit Bintang turns into a vibrant hotspot.
Along Changkat Bukit Bintang, you’ll find stylish bars, international restaurants, and lively clubs – perfect for night owls.
With a child, it can be a bit challenging in the evening due to the crowds, but it’s still worth a visit.
You can soak up the unique big-city atmosphere, enjoy a delicious dinner, and watch the colorful buzz of the nightlife unfold.

JALAN ALOR

Just a short walk away is the famous Jalan Alor – Kuala Lumpur’s iconic street food haven.
The air is filled with the smell of satay skewers, fried noodles, and exotic delights.
During the day, it’s a bit quieter and easy to visit even with a child.

Our tip: Be sure to try Halab Gate, a Syrian restaurant we loved so much that we ended up eating there more than once.

CHINATOWN & PETALING STREET

Chinatown around Petaling Street didn’t quite win us over.
While the market is a popular stop for tourists, most of the stalls sell counterfeit branded goods, often offered by rather pushy vendors.
We found the atmosphere hectic, and unfortunately, the social issues in the area are hard to ignore.
Many people struggling with addiction gather there, which doesn't make the visit particularly pleasant with a child.
Our conclusion: You can go – but you don’t have to.

CENTRAL MARKET & KASTURI WALK

Just a few minutes' walk from Chinatown, you’ll find the Central Market – an indoor market hall offering handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and small bites to eat.
Right next to it is the colorful Kasturi Walk, a lively pedestrian street with small stalls, a charming atmosphere, and plenty of street food options – perfect for a short stroll or a quick snack break.

BERJAYA TIMES SQUARE THEME PARK

Inside the massive Berjaya Times Square Mall, you’ll find a real hidden gem for families: an indoor amusement park with a roller coaster, carousels, and lots of other rides.
It’s perfect for hot or rainy days – and especially exciting if your child is a bit older.
Parents can also take a short break while the little ones play and burn off some energy.

THEAN HOU TEMPLE

The Thean Hou Temple is, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful temple complexes in Kuala Lumpur.
It’s set on a hill above the city and impresses with its colorful architecture, intricate details, and stunning views.
Since the temple has many steps, we recommend bringing a baby carrier instead of a stroller. It’s easy to get there by Grab.

BATU CAVES

The famous Batu Caves are located a bit outside the city, but they’re easy and affordable to reach by Grab.
Entry is free – and it’s definitely an experience! From afar, you’ll already spot the massive golden statue of the god Murugan.
Behind it, more than 270 brightly painted steps lead up to a temple cave where faith, nature, and a sense of adventure come together.
A fun highlight for kids: the many cheeky monkeys roaming the area.
As with other places, it’s best to bring a baby carrier – a stroller won’t get you very far here.

Getting around in Kuala Lumpur: Depending on where you're staying, the city center of Kuala Lumpur is easy to explore on foot, by public transport, and even with a stroller. Sidewalks are generally well maintained, and many attractions are close to one another.

However, it’s worth keeping your child’s perspective in mind: in a busy city like KL, you’re often surrounded by crowds – which, from stroller height, mostly means a sea of legs.
That’s why we often opted for a baby carrier, giving our child a better view and a closer connection.

A baby carrier also proved to be the better option on these outings – especially at temple sites with lots of stairs and uneven paths, where using a stroller would have been difficult.

THIS POST WASN’T ENOUGH FOR YOU? LOOKING FOR MORE TIPS, INSPIRATION, AND HIGHLIGHTS FOR YOUR MALAYSIA TRIP? THEN BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR FOLLOWING POSTS:

• Traveling Malaysia with a Baby - Tips, Facts & Our Experiences
• How to Cross the Border from Thailand to Malaysia: Train, Bus, Shuttle, Taxi or on Foot
• Besuch im Bako Nationalpark auf Borneo mit Baby oder Kleinkind – unsere Erfahrungen und Tipps
• Malaysia Travel Planning – Essential Tips & Insights for your Dream Trip

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Find affordable Transfers with 12Go.com
• Find affordable rental cars at rentalcars.com
• Find affordable flights at skyscanner.com
• Discover the best accommodations
• The best Travel Guides for Malaysia
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Malaysia

‍

Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.