A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Moscow vs. Kuala Lumpur for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Moscow or Kuala Lumpur?

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 Moscow and Kuala Lumpur. 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.

Where Should I go: Moscow or Kuala Lumpur?

Moscow

Moscow is the capital of Russia and is notable for its important role in history. It's a very sprawling city with many museums and fascinating buildings. Ten percent of Russia's population lives in this capital city and it's a financial and political center for the country. The Moskva River weaves its way through the city and you will find most of the city's sights and attractions on the northern side of the river.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, often referred to as KL, is the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia. It is also the largest city in the country, having grown out of a small Chinese mining village. Today Kuala Lumpur is a microcosm of the country of Malaysia. The population is split between the Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures which you can see reflected in the city's neighborhoods, cuisine, and entertainment. It's also an incredibly affordable city, even if you're looking for the comforts of a five star hotel or a luxury restaurant. Prices are almost always a fraction of what you would pay in Europe or the United States.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia.


Which place is cheaper, Kuala Lumpur or Moscow?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Moscow is $62, while the average daily cost in Kuala Lumpur is $62. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Moscow and Kuala Lumpur in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Moscow $39
    Kuala Lumpur $36
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Moscow $78
    Kuala Lumpur $72
Compare Hotels in Moscow and Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a hotel in Moscow or Kuala Lumpur? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Moscow


Hotels in Kuala Lumpur


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Moscow $6.06
    Kuala Lumpur $6.41
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Moscow

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Moscow are as follows:


  • Two Metro Passes
    $1.45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Moscow

Also for Moscow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Umban Sari to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $50
  • Private Transfer from Tengkerang Barat to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $40
  • Private Transfer from Tanjung Rhu to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $42
  • Private Transfer from Tangkerang Labuai to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $40
  • Private Transfer from Tanah Datar to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $42
  • Private Transfer from Sri Meranti to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $64
  • Private Transfer from Singkarak to Padang Airport (PDG): $167
  • Private Transfer from Simpang Tiga to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $42
  • Private Transfer from Sidomulyo Barat to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $40
  • Private Transfer from Sei Selayur to Palembang Airport (PLM): $92
  • Private Transfer from Pekanbaru City to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $42
  • Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Tengkerang Tengah: $40

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $3.14
  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    $0.67
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $3.14
  • Taxi From Airport
    $19
  • Bus from Airport
    $1.68
  • Train & Boat to Pulau Ketam
    $2.52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kuala Lumpur

Also for Kuala Lumpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • VIP Transfer by Mercedes Benz : Airport to Kuala Lumpur Hotel: $75
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Kuala Lumpur HTL-APT (KUL): $19
  • Transfer To Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort : $30
  • Sunway Lagoon: Ticket with Transfer from Kuala Lumpur: $87
  • Sunway Lagoon: Admission Ticket & 2-Way Transfer: $72
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park with Round-Trip Transfer: $83
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park to Kuala Lumpur Hotels Transfer: $17
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park Ticket and 1 WAY Transfer (SIC – shared transfer): $55
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park 2-Way Transfer: $20
  • Sunway Lagoon One-Day Admission Tickets Including Transfer: $68
  • Sunway Lagoon One-Day Admission (With & Without Transfer): $77
  • Sunway Lagoon Day Tour With Transfer (SIC): $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Moscow or Kuala Lumpur?

Prices for flights to both Kuala Lumpur and Moscow change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Moscow $14
    Kuala Lumpur $15
Typical Food Prices in Moscow

For Moscow, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $5.89
  • Lunch in the Center Market
    $3.21
  • Breakfast for 2
    $11

Typical Food Prices in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner at Ding Tai Fung
    $8.39
  • Roti Bread
    $0.21
  • Food Court Lunch
    $3.02
  • Dinner at Indian Restaurant (for Two)
    $4.51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nightlife Street Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $43
  • Street Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $48
  • Laksa Lanes Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 14+ Tastings: $49
  • Sambal Streets Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Authentic Malaysian Street Food Tour in Kampung Baru: $50
  • From Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour with Dinner: $55
  • ARAS Restaurant at KL Tower Buffet Dinner: $58
  • Kuala Lumpur by Night and Malaysian Food Tour: $61
  • Petaling Street Heritage Food Tour: $62
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $63
  • Private Malaysian Cooking Class With A Professional Chef: $64
  • Firefly Park Kuala Selangor Seafood Dinner and Free Boat Ride: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Moscow $16
    Kuala Lumpur $13
Typical Entertainment Prices in Moscow

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Moscow's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Theater Tickets
    $12
  • Kremlin Entry (2)
    $11

Tours and Activities in Moscow

For Moscow, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Days Private Tour to See Bull Race and Raflesia Arnoldi Flower: $250
  • Custom Private Tour in Palembang with English Speaking Driver: $85

Typical Entertainment Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • KL Tower Admission (for Two)
    $9.43
  • Canopy Walk at FRIM Forest Reserve
    $1.05

Tours and Activities in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Adventure Sports & Thrilling White-water Rafting in Kampar River: $241
  • Batu Caves And Countryside Tour: $24
  • Full Day Kuala Lumpur City Tour with Petronas Twin Tower Tickets: $95
  • Half-day Kuala Lumpur City Tour: $19
  • History, Heritage & Culture Of Malaysia Tour: $62
  • KL Tour with Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck & Batu Cave: $145
  • KLCC Lake Symphony & The River of Life Tour from Kuala Lumpur: $33
  • Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive): $184
  • Shah Alam Islamic Arts and Culture Tours : $31
  • *10 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Flexible Van Tour w' Tour Guide: $90
  • *12Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Genting Highlands w' Tour Guide: $90
  • *13 Hrs Bentong Van tour from Kuala Lumpur w' Tour Guide: $81

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Moscow $7.79
    Kuala Lumpur $6.21

Typical Alcohol Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $9.43


When comparing the travel costs between Moscow and Kuala Lumpur, we can see that Moscow is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Moscow is in Europe and Kuala Lumpur is in Asia, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Moscow or Kuala Lumpur?

Moscow has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Moscow and Kuala Lumpur, 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 Moscow or Kuala Lumpur?

Moscow 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 Moscow or Kuala Lumpur in the Summer?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Moscow are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Moscow is cooler than Kuala Lumpur in the summer. The daily temperature in Moscow averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Moscow usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Moscow gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Moscow 19°C (67°F) 
    Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Moscow or Kuala Lumpur in the Autumn?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Moscow during the autumn are popular places to visit. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round.

In the autumn, Moscow is much colder than Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Moscow in October average around 6°C (43°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Moscow usually gets less rain in October than Kuala Lumpur. Moscow gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Moscow 6°C (43°F) 
    Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Moscow or Kuala Lumpur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Moscow and Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Moscow. In January, Moscow is generally much colder than Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Moscow average around -8°C (17°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Moscow usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Moscow gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Moscow -8°C (17°F) 
    Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Moscow or Kuala Lumpur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Moscow as well as Kuala Lumpur. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year.

Moscow is much colder than Kuala Lumpur in the spring. The daily temperature in Moscow averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. Moscow usually gets less rain in April than Kuala Lumpur. Moscow gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Moscow 7°C (45°F) 
    Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F)

Typical Weather for Kuala Lumpur and Moscow

Moscow Kuala Lumpur
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -8°C (17°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 239 mm (9.4 in)
Feb -7°C (20°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 28°C (82°F) 200 mm (7.9 in)
Mar -1°C (30°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 28°C (82°F) 260 mm (10.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 28°C (82°F) 240 mm (9.4 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 28°C (82°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 28°C (82°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 28°C (82°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 28°C (82°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 27°C (81°F) 200 mm (7.9 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 280 mm (11 in)
Nov -0°C (32°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 290 mm (11.4 in)
Dec -5°C (23°F) 52 mm (2 in) 27°C (81°F) 250 mm (9.8 in)