A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Leiden for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur and Leiden. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a modern, welcoming, and friendly city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Leiden

Leiden is a historic, cultural, and scholarly city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Leiden travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Leiden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kuala Lumpur than Leiden. Kuala Lumpur is bigger than Leiden, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Leiden and is known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. Also, Kuala Lumpur is famous for The Petronas Twin Towers. Leiden is well known for its many museums and renowned university.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Leiden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Leiden and Kuala Lumpur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kuala Lumpur has many famous sights for visitors. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Leiden can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kuala Lumpur has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Leiden makes for a great culinary experience. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Kuala Lumpur has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Kuala Lumpur specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors from all around. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Leiden are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Leiden is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Leiden is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kuala Lumpur. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Leiden is a great city to visit as a student. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Kuala Lumpur has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Leiden a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Leiden are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Leiden is a very walkable city. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Leiden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Leiden or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kuala Lumpur than Leiden because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 1-2 days is enough time in Leiden.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Leiden. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kuala Lumpur, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Leiden. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kuala Lumpur that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Leiden if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Kuala Lumpur is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Leiden, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Leiden is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the scholarly destination of Leiden. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Kuala Lumpur. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Leiden is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Leiden, we can see that Leiden is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur is in Asia and Leiden is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Leiden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leiden than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is Leiden Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Leiden, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur or Leiden?

Leiden has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Leiden in the Summer?

Both Leiden and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Leiden in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Leiden. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 28°C (82°F), and Leiden fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Leiden. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Leiden during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Leiden receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Leiden. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Leiden in the Autumn?

Both Leiden and Kuala Lumpur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Leiden for the shopping scene during these months.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Leiden in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Leiden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Leiden. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leiden receives 99 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Leiden. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Leiden in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Leiden. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Leiden because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Leiden can be very cold. In the winter, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Leiden. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Leiden averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Leiden during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Leiden receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Leiden. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Leiden in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Leiden. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In April, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Leiden. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 28°C (82°F), and Leiden fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Leiden. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leiden receives 166 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Leiden. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Leiden and Kuala Lumpur