Are you planning on visiting Malaysia but struggling to decide which places to visit? Have you decided on your itinerary but now you are hesitating about where to stay? Don’t fear, Amy and Jo are here! We were in your shoes once too!
As seasoned travellers to Malaysia, our aim is to help you decide which area suits your style and preferences best. Malaysia offers diverse travel experiences, and the choice between Kuala Lumpur and Penang depends on your desires. Do you seek vibrant city life in Kuala Lumpur or serene natural surroundings by the ocean in Penang? Therefore, the question arises, should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Penang?
Kuala Lumpur offers a vibrant city experience with modern shopping, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Penang charms with its picturesque landscapes, rich heritage, and delectable street food. Choose Kuala Lumpur for cosmopolitan adventures or Penang for a laid-back, cultural escape.
They are very different destinations but both Penang and Kuala Lumpur are becoming popular destinations in Malaysia, for different reasons. Let’s briefly have a look at each destination:
Penang vs Kuala Lumpur. Comparing both places
Penang
Penang is a tropical island and a hidden gem right off the coast of Malaysia. It is a laid-back island that offers the perfect blend of history, culture, relaxation and natural beauty.
Penang’s capital and main city George Town, boast colonial architecture, visibly noticeable in the everywhere adorned wall streets art that makes the island a charming place to stay.
Penang offers an incredible mix of different cultures very much apparent in the diverse street food scene in the city. As stroll through the lively hawker stalls, it is possible to find Indian and North Malaysian flavours Chinese and even Thai goodies!
Lastly, the island's pristine beaches and lush rainforests are the perfect escape from city life to enjoy the raw nature of some parts of the island. Wondering where we stayed in Penang? check out The Landmark
Kuala Lumpur
On the other hand, Kuala Lumpur is the dynamic capital of Malaysia. It stands as a modern metropolis that has been growing and expanding in the last decade. It is home to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers which dominate the skyline of Kuala Lumpur, along with other stunning skyscrapers showcasing the city's impressive architectural features.
Kuala Lumpur is a bustling hub for commerce, businesses, entertainment, and culture. The city contains a vibrant energy rapidly palpable as you explore some of its multicultural neighbourhoods, from the colourful streets of Chinatown to the bustling markets of Little India. We stayed at Regalia Suites KL by Home Sweet Home it was pretty great!
Lastly, Kuala Lumpur offers a rich blend of contemporary attractions, from luxury shopping malls, world-class dining, street food and a great and loud nightlife to the traditional heritage of their rich Muslim culture. This is, in Kuala Lumpur is possible to find some of the most beautiful mosques in the country.
As you can see, amongst all the wonderful places to choose from in Malaysia, Penang and Kuala Lumpur are placed at the top of the favourite spots list. Whether you are searching for a lively city with vibrant and dynamic nightlife or a laid-back island nestled in the heart of modern architecture, Malaysia has something for you!
Cultural Attractions
Both Penang and Kuala Lumpur have a plethora of cultural attractions, including mosques, Buddhist and Hindu temples as well as other local traditions.
The historic George Town in Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage site, that showcases colonial architecture, temples, mosques, and vibrant street art. The Penang Peranakan Mansion and Khoo Kongsi Clan House for instance offer insights into the island's rich heritage.
In contrast, Kuala Lumpur displays a different and diverse cultural landscape. It is mainly known for The iconic Petronas Twin Towers and other important landmarks such as the Batu Caves, the Islamic Arts Museum and the National Mosque, which exhibits the city's cultural gems.
Both Penang and Kuala Lumpur offer a phenomenal blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Thai and other indigenous cultures adding depth to Malaysia's deep-rooted cultural charm.
Activities and Nature
Both destinations provide for a wide range of nature and activities, such as food touring, mosque and temple hunting, street art and beach discovery.
When it comes to exploring Penang, the island’s natural beauty resides in its pristine beaches, like Batu Ferringhi and Monkey Beach, where it is possible to share a coconut with a cheeky little monkey and The Penang Hill and Penang National Park, which offer excellent opportunities for hiking, nature exploration and photography of the best views on the island.
On the other hand, Kuala Lumpur has its fair share of green spaces, such as the KLCC Park and Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. However, Kuala Lumpur is mostly focused and more famous for its urban vibes. This includes visiting The Petrona towers, strolling around the city visiting the emblematic mosques of Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad (Jamek Mosque) and Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan (Federal Territory Mosque).
Do you want to explore and go all the way up to the Petronas twin towers? Get cheaper tickets here
Lastly, Kuala Lumpur is known for its lively and active nightlife at Bukit Bintang for the best food experiences at Jalan Alor. Let’s not forget the shopping! Shopping at world-class malls like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC is a thing when Kuala Lumpur.
Budget
The cost of a one-week vacation in Penang and Kuala Lumpur can vary widely depending on your personal preferences and travel style. Depending on your choice of accommodation, activities, and other factors the end budget can be very different.
For instance, Penang is a paradise for budget-conscious travellers, offering an array of affordable options for a memorable vacation. It is possible, with not much effort to find a lot of budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, with prices starting as low as $15-$30 per night, providing comfortable and pocket-friendly stays.
When it comes to exploring Penang’s food scene it is possible to cruise along your vacation days simply thriving on affordable street food. There are many hawker stalls offering dishes for as little as $1-$5 each.
Discovering the island and making use of the local transportation is equally economical, with bus rides costing around $0.50-$1 per trip, even though private car rides like Uber or Grab, rides are so affordable, making it easy to hop between attractions without breaking the bank.
On the flip side, Kuala Lumpur provides a diverse range of choices for travellers on a budget but also for those not so much on a tight string. Accommodation options in Kuala Lumpur vary from budget hotels and guesthouses priced around $30-$60 per night to mid-range hotels that
offer comfort and convenience at approximately $80-$150 per night.
Just like in Penang, Kuala Lumpur’s culinary panorama is a paradise for food enthusiasts. It is also common to find street food stalls where you can indulge in goodies for low prices such as $2-$6.
Lastly, local transportation in Kuala Lumpur is very affordable, with a single journey on the train or bus priced at $0.50-$2. While some attractions and activities may have entrance fees of around $5-$20, there are still plenty of free and low-cost options for entertainment, such as exploring the city's parks or vibrant neighbourhoods.
The Weather
Penang and Kuala Lumpur are both located in Malaysia, which has a tropical climate with high humidity and high temperatures throughout the year. However, there are slight differences between the two destinations.
Penang's tropical climate makes it an amazing destination for sun-seekers all year-round. It offers warm temperatures averaging between 27°C to 31°C (81°F to 88°F) for also occasional rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season from April to October.
For the best experience, we recommend you consider planning your visit during the dry season from November to March, when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed to the fullest without heavy rain breaks.
In comparison, Kuala Lumpur shares a very similar tropical climate with Penang, providing a warm and humid atmosphere all year-round. In this case, temperatures average between 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F). The monsoon season in Kuala Lumpur typically occurs from November to March, bringing heavy and frequent rainfall to the city.
To enjoy the city to the fullest, we advise you to consider planning your visit during the drier months from April to October when the weather is more favourable for the top sightseeing and outdoor adventure experiences.
Food
Both Penang and Kuala Lumpur are big on their food scene. In fact, food obsession is deeply ingrained in Malaysian culture.
Penang is a food paradise where the hawker food scene takes centre stage, featuring iconic dishes like Char Koay Teow and Asam Laksa, reflecting a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. Additionally, seafood delights, such as Butter Prawns and Chili Crab, are abundant due to the island's coastal location.
In contrast, Kuala Lumpur's food scene is equally impressive, thriving on its diverse cultural influences. The city's melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other ethnic cuisines offers a rich tapestry of flavours. Street food indulgence in Kuala Lumpur is unique with a multitude of restaurants, hawker stalls, and Kopitiam (coffee shops) scattered throughout the city.
The best dishes we tried were Nasi Lemak, often served with a delightful assortment of side dishes. Nasi Briyani is another highlight, offering fragrant rice dishes complemented by tender meat and aromatic spices.
The best dishes we tried in Penang were:
- Penang Asam Laksa: Popular Peranakan dish. Chinese culture is fused with local influences. The best version in Air Itam, near tourist attractions.
- Penang Char Koay Teow: Must-try street food. White flat rice noodles stir-fried with chives, eggs, bean sprouts, and prawns. Best version at Kafe Heng Huat in Lorong Selamat.
- Penang Tau Sar Piah: Delightful snack. Crumbly, slightly salty exterior. Soft and sweet mashed mung beans. The perfect contrast of flavours and textures.
- Nasi Lemak: Beloved dish. Cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves. Nutty taste. Served with anchovies, eggs, cucumber, peanuts, and fried chicken. Popular all day long.
The best dishes we tried in Kuala Lumpur were:
- Satay in Kuala Lumpur: Renowned Malay delicacy. Seasoned meat grilled over charcoal. Served with tangy peanut chutney. Among Kuala Lumpur's finest street foods.
- Rojak in Kuala Lumpur: Quintessential Malaysian dish. Mix of pineapples, cucumbers, green mango, and jicama. Sticky black sauce and ground peanuts. Beloved street food in Kuala Lumpur.
- Roti Canai in Kuala Lumpur: Beloved Malaysian flatbread. Served with dal or sambal. Savory and sweet variations. Fusion of Indian influences in Kuala Lumpur.
- Rendang in Kuala Lumpur: Renowned Malaysian dish. Slow-cooked tender meat with aromatic spices and coconut milk. Bold and spicy flavour. Must-try in Kuala Lumpur.
Do you want to know more about this amazing dish? We were in KLCC for weeks in a mission to find the best Rendang in Kuala Lumpur! Check it out!
Day trips
Both Penang and Kuala Lumpur offer exciting day trip possibilities.
In Penang, one of the most sought-after options is a visit to Langkawi Island, a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush rainforests. It is only a short ferry ride from Penang where there are tons of water-sports activities snorkelling and jungle.
In addition, for history and culture enthusiasts, a day trip to the nearby town of Ipoh is a must. This town is most known for its charming colonial architecture and vibrant street art. The Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple and Concubine Lane are just a couple of the fascinating attractions that await your exploration.
Lastly, a visit to Taiping Town could be an awesome day trip escape. A town known for its serene Lake Gardens and historical landmarks offers a peaceful escape with a scenic lakeside view.
Conversely, is also well equipped with an array of day trip possibilities. One of the top choices is the historic city of Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into Malaysia's rich colonial past. Exploring the well-preserved Dutch Square, visiting the iconic St. Paul's Hill, and savouring the unique blend of Peranakan culture are hot topics of discovery when around Kuala Lumpur.
For those who need a touch of nature close to the city, we recommend heading to the cool and refreshing Cameron Highlands famous for its gorgeous tea plantations, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes. It is possible to hike up the mountains, visiting a tea factory and strawberry farms.
Lastly, in order to grasp the authentic Malaysian culture, consider a day trip to the traditional village of Kuala Selangor. Here, you can witness the mesmerizing spectacle of fireflies lighting up the night sky along the banks of the Selangor River, a truly magical experience.
Shopping
Both Penang and Kuala Lumpur offer plenty and distinct shopping experiences.
In Penang, you can enjoy a blend of traditional and modern shopping with bustling markets and street stalls offering local crafts, souvenirs, and affordable clothing. These, are in places like Gurney Plaza and Queensbay Mall in Georgetown, while also immersing yourself in the authentic cultural atmosphere of Batu Ferringhi Night Market and Little India.
On the other hand, Kuala Lumpur boasts a cosmopolitan shopping scene, featuring high-end designer boutiques and luxurious shopping complexes. Iconic malls like Pavilion, Lot 10, and Starhill Gallery offer exquisite dining options and a taste of luxury and glamour. It is possible to find the most amazing bargains for fashion, accessories, electronics, and souvenirs. These happen in Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur's famous Chinatown. Haggling is allowed and encouraged!
Safety
Everywhere in Malaysia is generally considered safe, particularly in Penang and Kuala Lumpur. People are pretty respectful and we didn’t feel in danger or in the wrong place once. Just like any destination, you have to remain cautious and mindful of your belongings in busy and not well-lit areas and so on. By taking simple precautions, any traveller would feel safe in both Penang and Kuala Lumpur.
Penang has a reputation as a safe paradise for travellers, where visitors can explore the vibrant streets with ease. The island is known for its welcoming locals and tourist-friendly atmosphere. Also, it is matched by its low crime rates.
In comparison, Kuala Lumpur has diligently earned its reputation as a safe city for tourists. Kuala Lumpur takes pride in its commitment to security and safety measures. The city's modern infrastructure and well-developed public transport systems contribute to its safe and navigable environment.
Nightlife
When it comes to nightlife plans, both places do count on some night scenes.
Penang's nightlife has a touch of charming and laid-back atmosphere, where there are tons of places to unwind and socialise, from lively night markets where you can sample local delicacies and shop for souvenirs under the stars, to cozy live music venues that set the stage for a delightful night of entertainment. We had tons of ice creams, dessert goodies and much more like beachside bars!
On the contrary, Kuala Lumpur's nightlife thrives with electrifying and dynamic energy, very much like Bangkok. Kuala Lumpur comes alive after dark, and it is possible to find a plethora of bars, clubs, and entertainment places, from trendy rooftop bars to crowded nightclubs.
English language
Malay may be Malaysia's national language, but the country's linguistic landscape is a vibrant tapestry of languages. Malaysians, renowned for their linguistic prowess, often excel in two or more languages. English is definitely one of them.
We had absolutely no issue communicating with anyone even with the elderly around Penang or Kuala Lumpur. In the heart of Kuala Lumpur and Penang, English takes centre stage as a widely spoken language.
How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang
To travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, you have several transportation options to choose from:
- By Flight: The quickest way to reach Penang from Kuala Lumpur is by taking a flight. Several airlines operate daily flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Penang International Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour, making it a convenient and time-efficient choice.
- By Train: If you prefer a scenic journey, you can take a train from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. KTM (Malaysian Railways) operates the ETS (Electric Train Service) which connects KL Sentral station in Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth station in Penang. From Butterworth, you can cross over to Penang Island via the ferry service that operates frequently.
- By Bus: An economical option is taking a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. Numerous bus companies provide regular services between these two destinations, with various departure points in Kuala Lumpur and arrival points in Penang. The bus journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and the type of bus service.
- By Car: For travelers who enjoy driving, you can rent a car and travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang by road. The journey usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, both Penang and Kuala Lumpur offer different and amazing experiences, each with its own distinct charm. If you are into picturesque landscapes, a laid-back environment, cultural richness, and delightful street food, Penang is for you.
On the other hand, Kuala Lumpur impresses with its modernity, vibrant city life, and diverse shopping and nightlife scenes.
Ultimately, it is your own choice! Whether you seek a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty or a dynamic urban adventure, both destinations are pretty awesome!