Singapore & Malaysia Highlights

Once you have arrived at Singapore Changi Airport, one of the world's leading airports, you are welcomed by your private guide and chauffeur for a comfortable transfer to your accommodation. Take some time to check in and settle in before your Singapore adventure begins.

This evening, you have the option to join an evening cruise along the Singapore River at an additional cost. Departing at approximately 6 pm from your hotel lobby (exact pick-up time depends on your location), the traditional bumboat cruise passes Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and centuries-old godowns on the way to the ultra-modern Marina Bay Sands, taking in the illuminated Singapore skyline. A Bento dinner of local fare follows, with a choice of Hainanese chicken rice or sweet and sour fish (menu subject to seasonal change), before the evening concludes at a beautifully restored, historic colonial-era bar for a chilled, hand-shaken Singapore Sling - traditionally enjoyed with the custom of tossing peanut shells onto the floor.

After breakfast, you spend the morning exploring Singapore's cultural districts, beginning in Kampong Glam, where Malay, Arab and Bugis heritage blends with the city's modern atmosphere. From here, you continue through the historic Civic District, passing the Padang, the Singapore Cricket Club, Parliament House and the National Gallery Singapore, housed within the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings.

A stop at Merlion Park brings spectacular views over Marina Bay and the chance to photograph the Merlion, Singapore's most recognisable statue. You then visit the historic Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of Singapore's oldest and most important Chinese temples, before driving through the colourful shophouses and cultural heritage of Chinatown.

The day concludes at the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens, with a leisurely stroll through the National Orchid Garden and its extraordinary collection of thousands of orchid varieties.

Please note: You will need to make your own way to the tour coordination point the next morning, checking in at the tour desk before 8:45 am.

This morning, you are collected from your hotel in Singapore between 8 am and 8:30 am for the drive across the border into Malaysia and on to the historic city of Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site around 250 km away.

On arrival, you explore Malacca's rich multicultural heritage, visiting the beautifully preserved Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, one of Malaysia's oldest Chinese temples, and the historic Kampung Kling Mosque, which showcases a unique blend of architectural styles. A wander along the vibrant Jonker Street brings antique shops, local crafts and charming heritage buildings, before a visit to the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum (closed on Tuesdays) to learn about Peranakan culture.

The day continues with photo stops at the iconic pink Stadthuys Building, the Malacca Clock Tower and Christ Church, before concluding at the historic Porta de Santiago, one of the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Southeast Asia.

After breakfast at your accommodation, you depart for Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur, a journey of around 147 km. On arrival, a comprehensive city tour begins with a photo stop at the magnificent King's Palace, the official residence of the Malaysian monarch, before continuing to the impressive National Mosque, the historic Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and the National Monument, which commemorates the nation's fallen heroes.

You then visit Independence Square, surrounded by colonial-era architecture including the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building, the historic Selangor Club and St Mary's Church, all viewed during photo stops. From here, you admire the world's tallest free-standing flagpole before visiting the colourful Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the city's oldest Hindu temple.

A stroll through the busy streets of Chinatown brings traditional markets and local delicacies, before the day concludes with spectacular panoramic views over Kuala Lumpur from the city's tallest communication tower in Southeast Asia.

After breakfast at your accommodation, you continue exploring Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding attractions. A visit to the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, home to the world's largest pewter manufacturer, reveals the craftsmanship behind Malaysia's famous pewter products.

From here, you continue to the impressive Batu Caves, one of the country's most important Hindu pilgrimage sites, renowned for its towering golden statue and limestone caves (access is restricted during the three days before and after the Thaipusam Festival). Later, a stop at a local batik gallery reveals the traditional art of Malaysian batik-making, with beautifully handcrafted textiles on display.

After breakfast at your accommodation, you travel north toward the cool, scenic Cameron Highlands, Malaysia's premier hill station, a journey of around 220 km. En route, you pause at the picturesque Lata Iskandar Waterfall, surrounded by lush rainforest, and visit a local Orang Asli settlement to learn about the traditions of Malaysia's indigenous communities.

On reaching the highlands, you explore the region's famous tea plantation and learn about tea production at the tea factory (closed on Mondays and public holidays). The afternoon continues at the lively local marketplace and a charming cactus garden, where a variety of unique plants flourish in the cool mountain climate.

After breakfast at your accommodation, you set off toward the island of Penang, a journey of around 330 km. Your first stop is Ipoh, where you discover its charming Old Town, filled with beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Here, you admire the elegant Ipoh Railway Station, often called the "Taj Mahal of Ipoh", along with the nearby Ipoh Town Hall, before a walk through the historic Concubine Lane, once home to wealthy merchants and now a lively street lined with restored heritage buildings, cafes and boutique shops.

You continue to the royal town of Kuala Kangsar, driving around Bukit Chandan to admire the striking exterior of the magnificent Ubudiah Mosque, the royal Istana Iskandariah and the historic Istana Kenangan (Royal Gallery) during photo stops. A visit to the Labu Sayong Centre reveals the traditional craftsmanship behind the region's distinctive handmade clay pottery.

Afterwards, you cross one of the world's longest bridges to reach Penang, affectionately known as the "Pearl of the Orient".

After breakfast at your accommodation, you spend the day discovering the cultural treasures of Georgetown, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to the impressive Wat Chayamangkalaram, home to one of the world's longest reclining Buddha statues, is followed by the magnificent Kek Lok Si Temple, Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple, renowned for its striking architecture and impressive pagoda.

From here, you continue to Fort Cornwallis for a photo stop and a look at Penang's colonial history, before visiting the unique Clan Jetties at Weld Quay, where traditional wooden houses stand above the water, offering a glimpse into the lives of early Chinese settlers. A walk through the Street of Harmony reveals churches, mosques, Chinese temples and Hindu temples standing peacefully side by side, reflecting Penang's multicultural heritage.

You then visit the beautifully decorated Khoo Kongsi Clan House, one of the island's finest Chinese clan houses, before a relaxing trishaw ride through the charming streets of Georgetown. The remainder of the day is free, and you might use the time to browse Georgetown's street art and independent boutiques, or simply relax at your accommodation.

After breakfast, you transfer to Penang Airport for your flight to Singapore. On arrival, you are transferred to your accommodation, with the rest of the day free to relax. If you would like to get out and explore, the afternoon is a good opportunity to browse local markets or find a riverside cafe for a quiet coffee.

This afternoon or evening, you also have the option to join a Tiong Bahru food and heritage walk at an additional cost. Accompanied by an STB-licensed guide, you stroll through Singapore's oldest housing estate, taking in its distinctive Art Deco architecture, heritage streets, modern boutiques and hidden wartime landmarks. The walk includes a visit to the lively Tiong Bahru Wet Market and a stroll along Yong Siak Street, home to trendy cafes, independent bookstores and artisan shops, before continuing to a historic air-raid shelter for an insight into Singapore's wartime past. The experience concludes at the busy Tiong Bahru Food Centre, learning about local dining customs over traditional snacks and a cup of local coffee or tea.

Please note: This optional walk runs on request (except public holidays), lasts around 2.5 hours, includes two-way hotel transfers, and meets at the hotel lobby. It is subject to availability and may be adjusted if an attraction is unavailable; comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and any extra food or drink purchases are at your own expense.

After breakfast, you check out of your accommodation and transfer to Singapore Changi International Airport for your onward flight.