Malaysia is fast becoming Asia's new favorite, overtaking Thailand in terms of tourism growth. Find out which are the best cities and islands to visit, a ready-made itinerary for 7–12 days, seasonality, travel budget and tips for your first visit to the country

For years, Thailand has been an undeniable magnet for travelers, from Bangkok and Phuket to Pattaya, which is now resurgent as a family destination. However, the tourist map of Asia is changing rapidly. On the horizon, a country has appeared that is imperceptibly but rapidly taking over the palm of the championship - Malaysia.

A few years ago, it was called a "hidden gem", and now it is one of the most promising destinations in the region. And the numbers confirm this: in 2026, Malaysia expects more than 47 million tourists, including citizens of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Canada, while Thailand predicts about 33 million in 2025. If the trend continues, for the first time in a decade, the king of South Asian tourism may have a competitor.

Read more about Malaysia as the new tourist gem of Southeast Asia in this article.

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What is the phenomenon of Malaysia as a tourist pearl of Asia?

- Culture and hospitality

Here, Malay, Chinese and Indian traditions are harmoniously intertwined - in cuisine, architecture, people. The atmosphere of the country is warm and friendly, and rest is much more budget-friendly than in many neighboring countries.

- Beaches that have not yet been filled with tourists

Malaysia has dozens of islands that remain little known to mass tourism. Among them, Sabah stands out - a destination often compared to Bali before it exploded in popularity.

Tropical jungles, coral reefs, pristine beaches - and all this is accessible by direct flights from major Asian cities.

- The balance of metropolis and nature

The capital Kuala Lumpur is a giant urban hub with shopping malls, night markets, rooftop bars and one of the best gastro scenes in Southeast Asia. And 30 minutes from the city are the Batu Caves, a spiritual center of Hindus, which is free to visit.

272 colorful stairs lead into a huge natural cave, where tourists can experience the country in a completely different way.

Why has Malaysia become the new tourist pearl of Asia?

Most of the country's guests are currently residents of Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and Australia.

Singaporeans go to Malaysia for weekends and “beer tours”, young Australians – with backpacks and a minimal budget.

But direct flights from the USA and Europe are still limited, and this may be the main limiting factor on the way to absolute leadership in 2026.

But if the growth trend continues, Malaysia may become the new “number one” in Asia, while Thailand recovers from competition.

Where to go in Malaysia: top cities and islands for a first trip?

Kuala Lumpur – the rhythm of a metropolis

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is a mixture of Arabic aromas, Chinese lanterns, Indian spices and modern skyscrapers. It is easy to spend little here, but feel like you are in the center of a big world.

To make your trip as complete as possible, be sure to climb the Petronas Towers or at least look at them from KLCC Park in the evening light. Batu Caves – an atmospheric temple reached by 272 colorful steps. Stroll through Chinatown and try Nasi Lemak or Satay right on the street. In the evening – a cocktail on the rooftop overlooking the night city.

Who is it for: those who love big cities, shopping, gastronomy and nightlife.

Georgetown (Penang) – the gastro-capital of Malaysia

UNESCO center of old Malaysia, where colonial buildings, street art and a mix of cultures create the mood of a slow, warm city by the sea. While here, be sure to walk one of the art routes, and also find the most famous murals – “Little Children on a Bicycle” and others.

Night food markets: Penang hawker food – a must-try for gourmets. Fort Cornwallis + waterfront + a little ocean breeze at Golden Hour.

Who is it for: Those who travel for atmosphere, food, history and creative locations.

Malacca – a colonial fairytale for a weekend

A port city with Portuguese and Dutch architecture. An evening here is all about boats on the river, lanterns, music and the feeling of being in a little European Asia.

What to see: Dutch Square – a red square, the main postcard location, Jonker Walk – a street market with roast duck, coconut desserts and vintage stalls, a sunset cruise on the Malacca River.

Who is it for: Romantics, family travelers and those who love historic streets without rushing.

Sabah – jungle, wild beaches and world-class diving

Sabah – Malaysia, which has not yet become massive. Here you can see orangutans in the wild, dive into coral reefs and feel like an explorer. What to do: diving and snorkeling on Sipadan – one of the top spots in the world, trekking in the rainforest, watching sea turtles and manta rays.

For whom: for nature, silence, active recreation.

Langkawi – the most convenient beach option

More accessible in terms of transport, but still without crazy crowds, here the dawns are golden, and the evenings – with a cocktail by the sea. Also be sure to visit the Skybridge and the cable car with panoramas of the jungle.

For whom: for the first acquaintance with the islands, a balance of nature and service.

Perhentian – like Thailand 20 years ago

There are no big resorts here – just beaches, wooden bungalows, diving schools and life to the rhythm of the waves. This is an island for those who want a real “reboot”.

For whom: romantics, budget travelers, snorkeling fans.

Tioman – a complete digital-detox

Few people, lots of ocean and pristine nature. Ideal for a week of silence, reading books and encounters with wildlife.

For whom: solitude, slow travel, healing the nervous system.

When is the best time to travel to Malaysia?

- East coast (Perhentian, Tioman, Sabah) – best from April to September.

- Langkawi and Penang – comfortable all year round, but best from November to March.

- Kuala Lumpur – suitable in any season.

Important! Malaysia is tropical, so rain is always possible, but it is warm rain, not a “seasonal apocalypse”.

Approximate travel budget (1 person / 10 days)

- Flights Europe - Kuala Lumpur: ~ 500-900 €.

- Accommodation (hotels/apartments): ~ 20-70 €/day.

- Transport between cities: ~ 10-40 €

- Food: street food – 8-20 €/day, restaurants – 25-40 €/day.

- Islands / excursions / diving: ~ 30-200 € depending on the activity

On average, a full trip can cost 600–1200 € per person, if you choose a comfortable but non-luxury format.

You only need to come to Kuala Lumpur once, stroll through the night markets, climb to Batu Caves and drink coffee on the roof with a view of the Petronas Towers - and the question seems to be solved.

Malaysia is not yet overcrowded with tourists, retains its naturalness, has affordable prices and offers the same diversity that Thailand is loved for.

We will not be surprised if in a year or two the map of Instagram-vacation in Asia changes forever.

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Photo – Freepik

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