Kuala Lumpur is a modern city known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Kuala Lumpur, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Kuala Lumpur?
You should plan to spend around $80 (RM350) per day on your vacation in Kuala Lumpur. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $28 (RM123) on meals
- $6.99 (RM31) on local transportation
- $80 (RM348) on hotels
A one week trip to Kuala Lumpur for two people costs, on average, $1,120 (RM4,900). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$560
RM2,450
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,120
RM4,900
-
One Month
Per person
$2,401
RM10,500
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,120
RM4,900
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,240
RM9,800
-
One Month
For a couple
$4,801
RM21,000
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Kuala Lumpur cost?
A one week trip to Kuala Lumpur usually costs around $560 (RM2,450) for one person and $1,120 (RM4,900) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Kuala Lumpur on average costs around $1,120 (RM4,900) for one person and $2,240 (RM9,800) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Kuala Lumpur will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Kuala Lumpur on average costs around $2,401 (RM10,500) for one person and $4,801 (RM21,000) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Kuala Lumpur expensive to visit?
Kuala Lumpur is a big city packed with fun activities for everyone. You'll find all sorts of travelers here, from budget backpackers to luxury seekers, each enjoying their own unique experience. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Kuala Lumpur can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $29 (RM125) per day, mid-range travelers spend $80 (RM350) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $245 (RM1,072) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Kuala Lumpur.
Within Asia, Kuala Lumpur is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Ayutthaya or Cebu.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Kuala Lumpur?
The average Kuala Lumpur trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Kuala Lumpur travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Kuala Lumpur cost?
Kuala Lumpur on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$14
(RM61)
|
$40
(RM174)
|
$126
(RM551)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$2
(RM11)
|
$7
(RM31)
|
$23
(RM99)
|
|
Food2
|
$10
(RM45)
|
$28
(RM123)
|
$82
(RM360)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$6
(RM24)
|
$15
(RM64)
|
$40
(RM176)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$1-4
(RM6-19)
|
$3-10
(RM15-44)
|
$7-21
(RM30-90)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Kuala Lumpur with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $29 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Thankfully, Kuala Lumpur features plenty of hostels, such as Sunshine Bedz KL, Chinatown Hostel by Mingle, and 1000 Miles (Thousand Miles). At hostels like this, you can find economical dorm beds and a great social atmosphere, although amenities might be quite sparse. Additionally, the city has a strong public transit network, helping budget travelers dodge the expenses of taxis or rideshares. Food is a major draw for all kinds of visitors to Kuala Lumpur, but budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which means they might miss out on the amazing local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, dine at well-known restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Those traveling to Kuala Lumpur often aim to see the major attractions, museums, and noteworthy landmarks. Remember, most activities come with a cost. Therefore, it's reasonable to anticipate that your daily budget will be around $80 per person, per day.
Kuala Lumpur offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral is an excellent choice, while The Signature Hotel & Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur is also a great option. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Kuala Lumpur.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $245. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the city, be prepared for premium pricing. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Kuala Lumpur
Hotel prices in Kuala Lumpur can really fluctuate, especially between budget and luxury options. Expect higher costs during peak winter season, when rates climb from an off-season average of $30 up to around $56. From $13 for budget options to $144 for luxury hotels, there's something for everyone. Hostels, particularly dorms, are typically cheaper. Book early or travel in the low season for better prices.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Kuala Lumpur for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $80 (RM348). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $40 (RM174) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Kuala Lumpur include:
- citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang starting at $43
- Element Kuala Lumpur by Westin starting at $80
- Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral starting at $71
- The Signature Hotel & Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur starting at $31
- WOLO Kuala Lumpur starting at $44
Kuala Lumpur is an extensive city, presenting a diverse range of lodging options. From hostels like Sunshine Bedz KL to vacation rentals and high-end hotels, there's plenty to choose from. Staying closer to the city center may mean higher rates, but you'll enjoy convenient access to public transportation and attractions.
Kuala Lumpur's public transportation allows you to stay further away from the city for cheaper lodging, but commuting might add extra transportation costs and eat up your time.
In a family-friendly place like Kuala Lumpur, finding accommodation with more space is key when traveling with children. It's a large city, so don't be surprised if the rooms feel a bit small and cramped.
Many visitors stay in Kuala Lumpur for a week, and if you're here for a longer time, renting a place with a kitchen could be a smart way to handle your own meals.
If you plan to avoid winter and visit during the low or shoulder season, you'll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.
Walking is a common way to explore Kuala Lumpur, so look for a place right in the heart of the action. This might, however, come at a higher price.
Transportation Budget in Kuala Lumpur
In a large city like Kuala Lumpur, transportation is important, and thankfully, the public transit system is excellent. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains. Public transportation is the best way to save money, but taxis and rideshares are available if you want more convenience.
Those who enjoy exploring on foot will have a great time here. 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.
Public Transit: 
(excellent)
Walkability: 
(great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $6.99 (RM31) per person, per day, on local transportation in Kuala Lumpur. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Kuala Lumpur is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$6.99
RM31
Kuala Lumpur is a major transportation center for the country. You're likely to find yourself passing through this city on bus, train, or plane transfers during your time in Malaysia. There are incredibly affordable flights out of Kuala Lumpur, so if you are choosing to explore Asia by air, this will likely be a stop off for you on several occasions.
Within Kuala Lumpur, public transportation is quite convenient. The city continues to upgrade its train system, and you are likely to see ongoing improvements. There are several different train systems that are not fully integrated, so you should fully understand your route and ticketing situation in advance. Buses travel throughout the city but the frequency is low. The Go KL system has two routes that run through the central business district and is free.
If public transportation is in your plans often, be sure to take advantage of multi-day transit passes for savings.
Be aware of pickpockets on the buses and trains, as well as in the stations. It's important to stay alert because Kuala Lumpur is a large city.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Kuala Lumpur Airport Transfer for $26 details
- Kuala Lumpur Full-Day Tour with 2-Way Airport / Port Transfers for $120 details
- Petronas Twin Tower Tickets & Round Trip Transfers for $65 details
How much does it cost to go to Kuala Lumpur? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Kuala Lumpur will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Below, you'll find common transit prices in Kuala Lumpur, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.
Food Budget in Kuala Lumpur
With its world-class cuisine, Kuala Lumpur is a food lover's paradise. Make it a priority to eat at local restaurants and try their standout dishes. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Kuala Lumpur can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Kuala Lumpur is $28 (RM123) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$28
RM123
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Kuala Lumpur is around $28 (RM123) per person, with previous travelers spending from $10 to $82. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $11
- Dinner: $8 to $20
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Food in Kuala Lumpur is very cheap, but also very delicious. If you're on a particularly tight budget, you can get all kinds of great local specialties at the many street stalls around town. There is also plenty of Chinese and Indian food, both of which are good and affordable. Of course, there is also no shortage of Malaysian cuisine, so whatever your style, you should be pleasantly surprised with your food selection.
Curry houses, or kedai mamk are very common, particularly at Jalan Doraisamy near the Heritage Row. Dishes available include full curries or snacks of roti canai. The many shopping malls around Kuala Lumpur also have food courts. The prices can be more expensive but the dishes are fresh and quite good.
In general, you'll find Malay food in Jalan Masjid India and Kampung Baru in the Tuanku Abdul Rahman district. Chinatown has the best Chinese food and Lebug Ampang and Brickfields have great Indian food. For high end western food head to Bangsar.
Eating at nicer restaurants for lunch instead of dinner is a great way to save money. Many dining venues in tourist areas or business centers feature lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are often smaller and cheaper versions of the dinner menu. If you're willing to search, you might discover a full multi-course gourmet meal at a great price. For dinner, you can just enjoy a light meal.
If you're on a trip with your kids, find restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can really help you save money since those options are typically much more affordable. Some places might not show the kids' meals on their menu, so be sure to check with your waiter first.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.
You can cut costs and soak in the views by having a picnic. Swing by a local grocery store or market, pick up some fresh goodies, and head to a lovely park or picturesque location to savor your meal.
Use a water bottle instead of splurging on drinks everywhere you go. It's a smart choice for the environment, too.
Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Kuala Lumpur. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Fireflies Cruise with Batu Cave Visit and Seafood Dinner for $100 details
- Private Fireflies Tour with Blue Tears and Seafood Dinner for $83 details
- Private Kuala Lumpur Night Delight Food Tour for $107 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Kuala Lumpur, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Kuala Lumpur
It's understandable that travelers choose Kuala Lumpur, as it is famous for museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Kuala Lumpur typically cost an average of $15 (RM64) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$15
RM64
The sights in Kuala Lumpur reflect the city's diverse population and colonial past. Make sure you visit Chinatown, Dataran Merdeka, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, and the Islamic Arts Museum. Also head to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, which at one time were the world's tallest buildings. They are quite impressive and a trip to the top is enjoyable. Other notable museums around town include the National Museum and the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery.
Shopping is a national past time in Kuala Lumpur. There are endless markets and malls around town. Other activities include attending a sporting event, going to a museum, seeing a show or concert, or visiting a spa. Many of the high end five star hotels have excellent, world class, spas attached.
Museums and Attractions:
Kuala Lumpur is well-known for its iconic museums and renowned landmarks. 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.
Shopping:
Shopping here is a unique experience you'll want to have. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Kuala Lumpur. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Riverside Experience Tour for $45 details
- Kuala Lumpur Sightseeing for $70 details
- Full day in Malacca Historical Private Tour in Kuala Lumpur for $115 details
Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Kuala Lumpur, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.
Nightlife Budget in Kuala Lumpur
Visitors in Kuala Lumpur can't get enough of the fun nightlife, spending their evenings at local bars, clubs, and parties. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $6.77 (RM30) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Kuala Lumpur per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$6.77
RM30
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
Nightlife is fun, but be cautious when drinking. Thieves target distracted people, so stay with your group and trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.
Listed below are typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Kuala Lumpur, as reported by real travelers. These figures should give you an idea of what drinks cost. However, your actual expenses will depend on your nightlife activities and dining choices, how frequently you consume alcohol, and the quantity you order. If you're looking to save on your trip, reducing your alcohol consumption is one of the easiest ways to cut down on your budget.
Travel cost data last updated: Mar 28, 2025
Traveling in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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.
Kuala Lumpur has a tropical rainforest climate. The northeast monsoon season is from October to March and brings plenty of rain. Temperatures are relatively constant year around. Highs can climb into the low 90 degrees Fahrenheit but rarely reach the triple digits. Lows typically drop into the 70s. June and July are relatively dry, but rain can occur year around.
Neighborhoods & Around
Kuala Lumpur is a large and sprawling city with many diverse and interesting neighborhoods. In general, the city can be divided into the Old City, Golden Triangle, Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Brickfields, Bangsar and Midvalley, Damansara and Hartamas, and Ampang. There are also northern and southern suburbs.
The Old City is the traditional heart of the city. This is where you'll find Merdeka Square, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Selangor Club. It also includes Chinatown. The Golden Triangle is essentially the city's central business district. There are many malls and high end hotels as well as the Petronas Twin Towers. Tuanku Abdul Rahman is a traditional shopping area with many festivals and budget accommodation options. Brickfields is the city's Little India.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
We found the food to be both cheap and delicious. In particular, check out Petaling Street and Chinatown.