Places to stay in Malaysia

Malaysia is split between the Malay Peninsula and the north of Borneo, and our places to stay cover both. In Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is the base for Mount Kinabalu, island snorkelling and rainforest wildlife. On the peninsula, Johor Bahru sits just across the causeway from Singapore, and Malacca is a UNESCO-listed trading port full of colonial buildings, temples and Peranakan food.

Each destination page groups its hotels by area, with a short guide to help you choose where to stay.

Destinations in Malaysia

Places to stay across Malaysia

A selection from every destination. Open a destination above to see all of its hotels with filters.

Hotel in Sutera, the museum and Tanjung Aru

Borneo Inn

Comfortable rooms between the museum and the markets

  • air-conditioning
  • free Wi-Fi
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Planning your trip

Weather

Malaysia is hot and humid all year. The peninsula's west coast gets heavier rain around the monsoon transitions, while Sabah's wettest months are roughly October to February. Short, heavy downpours are common anywhere in the afternoon.

Getting around

Domestic flights link Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Kota Kinabalu. On the peninsula, express buses and trains connect Malacca and Johor Bahru with Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Before you book

Entry rules for Malaysia, including digital arrival cards, change from time to time. Check the latest UK government travel advice (gov.uk) or your own government's guidance before you travel.

Questions about staying in Malaysia

Is Johor Bahru a good base for visiting Singapore?

Many visitors stay in Johor Bahru for lower prices and cross the causeway by bus or train. Allow extra time for border queues, which can be long at peak hours.

How long do I need in Malacca?

One or two nights is enough to explore the old town, Jonker Street's night market and the museums at a relaxed pace.

What is there to do in Kota Kinabalu?

Island-hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, climbing or visiting Mount Kinabalu, river trips to see proboscis monkeys and exploring the city's markets.