[UPDATED IN SEPTEMBER 2024]

Planning a trip through Malaysia and looking for a more relaxed pace? Then this 2-day Langkawi itinerary might be exactly what you need!

Langkawi is an archipelago made up of more than 90 islands located on the northwestern side of Malaysia. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for some relaxation or adventure. Get ready to enjoy the paradise-like side of Malaysia.

Langkawi archipelago is particularly well known for its breathtaking beaches. But it’s also known for its more adventurous activities (such as water sports or a ride on the world’s steepest cable car). So keep reading to better plan your trip to Langkawi.

Let me take you on a journey through paradise! Here you’ll find insider tips and must-see spots, so you can plan your ideal getaway and make the most of your 2 days in Langkawi.

Besides what to visit in Langkawi, you’ll also discover essential travel tips, like:

• Best time of the year to visit Langkawi
• How many days to spend in Langkawi
• Top accommodation options in Langkawi

With around 478 square kilometres, the Langkawi archipelago has plenty of things to visit. We can easily spend a week on the main island visiting a different beach every day.

But, unless you really want to make the most of Langkawi’s beaches, 2 to 3 days is enough to see Langkawi’s main points of interest.

In this post, I’m going to tell you the best places to visit in Langkawi in 2 days, which is how long my trip there lasted. I spent “only” two days on the island, but I managed to visit 3 beaches and visit all of Langkawi’s must-visit places.

That said, if you have more time to visit Langkawi, I promise you won’t get bored. One thing’s for sure, there’s no shortage of things to see in Langkawi 😉.

The best time to visit Langkawi is during the dry season. I can imagine nobody wants to go to the beach if it’s raining 😁. There is less rainfall in Langkawi from December to March. However, I must warn you that this is also when there are more tourists on the island.

Another excellent time to visit Langkawi is from April to August. There’s indeed a higher chance of rain, but if you’re willing to risk it, you might find great weather.

For example, I visited Langkawi in June and, even though it rained for a few hours, I was able to enjoy the beach. What’s more, it was wonderful to be able to visit some of the island’s most popular sites with very few tourists.

As a citizen with a Portuguese passport, I am entitled to a free visa valid for 90 days to enter Malaysia. My passport had to be valid for, at least, 6 months. I also filled out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card but no one asked me for it.

When arriving in Malaysia, the process is quite simple. You might be asked a few questions about your origin, where you’re going next, how long you plan to stay and where you’ll be staying.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: I strongly suggest you check out the latest information here. Different rules apply to different passport holders.

Langkawi Island offers a different side to the rest of the most popular places in Malaysia. It has nothing to do with the cities of Kuala Lumpur, Malacca or Penang, for example.

If you have no intention of going to the beach or simply don’t enjoy going to the beach that much, maybe you shouldn’t consider visiting Langkawi. The truth is that the beaches are Langkawi’s main attractions!

If you’d like to soak up some sun and get to know another version of Malaysia, I recommend visiting Langkawi. For example, I’m not the biggest beach lover and must admit that I enjoyed my visit to the island.

In fact, there are other attractions in Langkawi. So you can combine the idyllic beaches with other interesting places in Langkawi.

Currently, the most convenient way of getting to Langkawi is by plane. The airport in Langkawi has connections with the main cities in Malaysia. This includes Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. They also have flights to/from Singapore.

In my case, I chose to fly directly from Penang to Langkawi. The flight takes just 17 minutes and cost 8€ on Air Asia. Several airlines offer this route, so check which is the most convenient option.

There was also a ferry option (that took about 2 hours) that departed from Penang. However, from what I could find out online and also after talking to some locals, the ferry is currently not operating.

Considering the length of the plane journey and its price, flying to Langkawi is well worth it.

There are still ferries linking Langkawi to other areas in northern Malaysia (Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah). Some ferries also connect Langkawi to islands in Thailand (Satun and Koh Lipe).

However, for those travelling from Penang (a very popular option given its proximity), these options are not very viable.

The official currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). As of September 2024, 1 MYR = 0,22€. Even though many places accept cards, you should also try to carry some cash with you since some are “cash only”. This is especially true if you intend to eat out in local markets.

To purchase with a currency other than the one I usually use (Euro), I always use the Revolut card, which has many advantages. One of the biggest advantages of the Revolut card while travelling is the fact it does not charge extra fees for using a different currency.

If you do not yet know the advantages of having a Revolut Card, you can find out more here.

Some of the banks in Malaysia charge a fee for withdrawing money with foreign cards (even if you’re using a Revolut card!). However, I found some that didn’t charge me to withdraw money with my Revolut card. These were the banks where I got to withdraw money without paying fees:

• HSBC
• Maybank
• CIMB Bank

It’s quite handy to always have internet while travelling in Malaysia. It’s useful when you need to call a Grab or use Google Maps in walking mode, for example.

Wondering how to stay connected in Malaysia? I recommend purchasing an eSIM from Celcom for affordable and reliable mobile data. You can easily top-up at any 7-Eleven. You can also choose a roaming mobile data plan, which works seamlessly across many Southeast Asian countries.

For example, this e-SIM Roaming Mobile Data Plan can be purchased even before you arrive in Malaysia and the options are quite cheap.

Choose the option that suits you best. Just keep in mind the duration of your trip and where you plan to go, since most of the plans include a mobile data plan that also works in other countries.

Getting around Langkawi is easy. You’ve got several great options to choose from depending on your travel style and budget.

Public transport in Langkawi is almost non-existent. So you’ll have to rely on other modes of transport to get around the island.

Whether you prefer the freedom of a rental car or the simplicity of a taxi/Grab, here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

Exploring Langkawi by car is one the most convenient ways to explore the island. You can rent a car directly from the airport. Otherwise, there are several rental offices in popular areas like Pantai Cenang.

Prices range from 80 MYR (~ 17€) to 150 MYR (~ 33€) per day, depending on the car type and season.

An international driving permit is recommended, though some companies may not require it. The roads are generally well-maintained, and traffic is light outside of the main tourist areas.

• Pros: Flexibility to explore at your own pace, ideal for visiting more remote beaches or attractions.
• Cons: Parking can be challenging in busy spots like Pantai Cenang during peak season.

I recommend using Discover Cars to rent a car in Langkawi. It offers an easy way to compare prices across multiple companies, ensuring you get the best deal. Plus, they provide flexible cancellation and 24/7 customer support for a smooth experience.

Scooter rentals are perfect for a budget trip to Langkawi and solo travellers/couples.

Expect to pay around 30 MYR (~ 7€) to 50 MYR (~ 11€) per day. Helmets are mandatory, and you should carry your driving license with you at all times. Be cautious on rainy days as the roads can get slippery.

• Pros: Cheap, fun, and allows easy parking.
• Cons: Not ideal for longer distances or during bad weather.

If you don’t want to drive, taxis are readily available. Grab (a kind of Uber) operates in Langkawi, providing affordable, hassle-free rides.

A trip from the airport to Pantai Cenang will cost around 25 MYR (~5€). Rides between major attractions range from 10 MYR (~2€) to 50 MYR (~11€) depending on the distance.

• Pros: No need to navigate, convenient for short distances.
• Cons: Costs can add up if you’re taking many rides each day.

For a more eco-friendly and leisurely option, you can rent a bicycle in Langkawi.

Several guesthouses and shops offer daily rentals at around 15 MYR (~3€) to 30 MYR (~7€). While Langkawi isn’t heavily built for cyclists, you can still enjoy short rides along quieter roads or beach areas.

• Pros: Eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for short trips.
• Cons: Not suitable for exploring the entire island due to long distances and some steep hills.

In my case, I used Grab to get around the island. My longest trip was about 40 minutes and it wasn’t that expensive.

The best area to stay in Langkawi depends a lot on what you’re looking for. For example, if your goal is to stay in a more remote part of the island and have a more relaxed environment, you can do that.

If want to stay in the busiest part of the island, then look for accommodation in Langkawi here:

• Pantai Cenang – one of the most popular areas in Langkawi, where you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants. It’s also the closest part to the island’s most popular beach.
• Pantai Tengah – close to another of Langkawi’s most popular beaches, although with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
• Kuah – Langkawi’s main city and further away from the beaches. Very popular shopping area.

Staying near these places will give you more flexibility when it comes to transport and easier access to restaurants, for example.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget stays, Langkawi has plenty of accommodation options.

Here are the top picks for each type of budget.

• The Datai Langkawi: a 5-star resort nestled in the rainforest with private beach access. It also offers luxurious rooms, an award-winning spa, and a tranquil, nature-filled retreat.
• The Danna Langkawi: Colonial elegance meets modern luxury at this beachfront resort. It features an infinity pool, a private beach, and superb service on Pantai Kok.

• Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa: this beachfront resort offers spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities. Plus, they have great dining options at a reasonable price. It’s set on Pantai Cenang.
• Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa: An eco-friendly resort on Pantai Tengah. It has beachfront access and a relaxing, sustainable atmosphere.

• Chill Box Langkawi: A cosy hotel near Pantai Cenang. It offers compact yet comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Great for budget travellers looking to be close to the beach.
• Villa Molek: A boutique hotel near Pantai Tengah. It has spacious villa-style rooms and it’s ideal for couples or solo travellers wanting a peaceful, affordable stay.

In my case, I chose to stay in Pantai Cenang at Villa Langkawi. The location was good since it took me about 15 minutes to walk to the beach. The accommodation, although quite simple, met the conditions for a good night’s sleep.

Also, the value for money was excellent (it was only 25€ per night for 2 people).

Villa Langkawi has a swimming pool which, although I didn’t get to try it out, looked very appealing in Langkawi’s hot weather.

Still not sure what accommodation to choose in Langkawi? Then you can check out the map below for more inspiration:

Before I start this Langkawi travel guide, I’m going to share with you a useful map for your trip to Langkawi. It includes the places I’m mentioning in this 2-day itinerary in Langkawi so you can better plan your trip.

This Langkawi itinerary includes everything I did on the island in 2 days. Of course, there are more experiences available or many more beaches to visit.

But, I am to show you how you can plan a 2-day trip to Langkawi (after all, we don’t always have as much time as we’d like to visit places).

But don’t worry if you have more time available to stay in Langkawi. At the end of this 2-day itinerary, I’ll leave you with more suggestions of things to do in Langkawi.

Start this Langkawi itinerary on the island’s most famous beach. About 2 kilometres long, here you’ll find several bars and restaurants. If you want to find the beach emptier, arrive there early.

💡 EXTRA TIP: There is a locker and changing room service right at the beach’s entrance. It can be useful for those who arrive at the island early and can’t immediately check in at their accommodation. Using the lockers costs 2€ for the whole day.

After a few hours on Pantai Cenang beach, head to one of the most popular areas on the island of Langkawi. Oriental Village is a cute little “village” with lots of shops and restaurants.

It’s located where you can buy tickets for Langkawi’s cable car (we’ll get to that in a minute!).

A quick stroll around the complex is more than enough, especially for those who have no intention of shopping here.

Another must-do in Langkawi is its cable car. Get ready for the world’s steepest cable car, which will take you to a height of over 600 metres. The vertiginous journey takes around 15 minutes and each gondola carries a maximum of 6 people.

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you’re afraid of heights, I wouldn’t recommend this activity. For example, I’m not particularly afraid of heights and I have to confess that I felt quite uncomfortable for most of the journey.

During the ride, you can admire the views over Langkawi, as well as the lush green mountain of Machincang.

There are several types of gondolas. Some even have a glass floor!! I wouldn’t dare to ride on one of these, but if you like some adrenaline rush, it could be quite a fun experience.

When you reach the cable car’s first stop, there is a viewpoint with excellent views of the island. From here, you can continue on a 2-minute journey to the SkyBridge.

The SkyBridge requires an extra ticket (6 MYR, 1.2€) and it is a bridge where some parts have a glass floor. Here you’ll also get panoramic views over Langkawi.

On cloudy days, I don’t recommend visiting. Due to the altitude of the SkyBridge and the cable car’s first viewpoint, it will be very difficult to have good views.

Unfortunately, this is what happened to me! When the weather is bad, the cable car may even be temporarily closed.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Check the opening times on the official website. In September 2024, the price to ride the “normal” cable car was 85 MYR (~18€) per adult. You can also buy tickets directly here.

Another option to get to the SkyBridge is taking the Sky Glide. This short, scenic ride takes you directly to the Sky Bridge, offering stunning views along the way.

More recently, they have also opened Eagle’s Nest SkyWalk. It’s located in SkyCab’s middle station and it’s a glass-bottomed platform. It’s another great way to fully appreciate Langkawi’s incredible landscapes.

And to end the day, go to Langkawi’s second most famous beach – Pantai Tengah. This is also quite long, but much less crowded than Pantai Cenang, as it has fewer facilities.

I especially recommend staying to watch the sunset. One of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen 🥰!

After a final dip in the sea, and because you’re probably already a bit hungry by now, visit one of Langkawi’s many night markets. This is one of the best night activities in Langkawi!

The location of the market depends on the day of the week:

• Monday: Ulu Melaka
• Tuesday: Kedawang
• Wednesday: Kuah
• Thursday: Temonyong
• Friday: Ayer Hangat
• Saturday: Kuah
• Sunday: Padang Matsirat

Start this second day with one of the most popular activities in Langkawi – an island hopping boat ride. Several companies offer this service, but I booked directly through Get Your Guide.

The tour I booked lasts one morning and includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation and costs around 32€ per person.

The tour takes place in a kind of speedboat that carries around 20 people. The tour I took stopped at the following points of interest:

• Lake of Pregnant Maiden/Pulau Dayang Bunting (we could stay there for about 1h30)
• Observing eagles in their habitat
• Beras Basah Island (we could stay there for about 1h)

On Pulau Dayang Bunting, you can do some water sports in this cold-water lake. On Beras Basah Island you’ll want to take a dip in the warm seawater.

Finally, I want to point out that although the places you visit on this tour are truly beautiful, this is an extremely touristy activity. We have limited time to explore each site and it is clearly a mass tourism tour.

The truth is that I couldn’t find any other way to visit some of the places I visited on this tour. This is particularly true for Pulau Dayang Bunting (one of the most popular places in Langkawi).

So, despite the downsides of this activity, I still recommend it. The beauty of the sites I got to visit made me forget about everything else.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Take a spare change of swimming clothes! If you decide to get into the water, it’ll be difficult for them to dry before you have to get back on the boat.

After the morning tour, I recommend a visit to Tanjung Rhu beach in the afternoon. It’s a bit far from the more “central” part of Langkawi, but I promise it’s worth it 🥰! Some people say this is the best beach in Langkawi.

Due to its more remote location, this beach is usually much emptier. There are a few sunbeds and parasols for rental. With Malaysia’s hot and humid weather, this is really the only way to survive a few hours on the beach.

Looking for more amazing places to visit in Langkawi? There is more beyond the well-known beaches and cable cars.

Langkawi is home to hidden gems, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking natural attractions. Here’s a list of other spots to add to your Langkawi itinerary:

This is a top natural attraction in Langkawi! Seven Wells Waterfall is a beautiful series of seven natural pools located near the famous Langkawi Cable Car.

After a steep hike, cool off in the refreshing pools and take in the stunning panoramic views. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Nestled in the northern part of Langkawi, Temurun Waterfall is the island’s tallest waterfall. It offers a serene escape into nature since it’s surrounded by lush rainforest.

It’s an ideal spot for those looking to explore Langkawi’s natural beauty away from the crowds.

About a 20-minute drive from Kuah, the Durian Perangin Waterfall offers a peaceful retreat from the busier tourist spots.

This multi-tiered waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers.

The short hike to the top reveals refreshing pools where you can take a dip and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Eagle Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in Langkawi! It features a massive eagle statue symbolizing the island’s name.

Located in Kuah Town, it’s a great spot for photos and a relaxing stroll along the waterfront. Visitors often stop here for a glimpse of local heritage before heading to nearby shops or restaurants.

A Mangrove Cruise through the Kilim Geoforest Park is one of the top activities in Langkawi.

This guided boat tour takes you through the island’s mangrove forests, limestone formations, and sea caves.

It’s a fantastic way to see wildlife, including eagles, monkeys and lizards, while learning about the island’s unique ecosystems.

This is one of the most popular activities in Langkawi after the island hopping boat trip!!!)

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, visit Skull Sand Beach. This is a secluded, quiet beach and perfect for a peaceful getaway.

It’s less crowded than Langkawi’s more famous beaches, offering a tranquil spot for relaxation or a romantic walk.

A Sunset Dinner Cruise is one of the most popular evening activities in Langkawi. Enjoy a delicious meal while sailing through the Andaman Sea as the sun sets over the horizon.

This is a romantic and relaxing way to end your day. Many cruises offer live entertainment and a chance to take a dip in the saltwater.

Have a look at this tour, for example, which includes dinner and drinks.

Langkawi is famous for its duty-free shopping, especially in Kuah Town.

You can find everything from alcohol and chocolates to perfumes and electronics at great prices. Make sure to leave some space in your luggage to take advantage of these deals!

Langkawi offers a vibrant mix of local Malaysian cuisine, fresh seafood, and international dishes to please all tastes.

Whether you’re looking for street food or fine dining, here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat in Langkawi.

For a true taste of Langkawi, don’t miss out on trying traditional Malaysian dishes. Popular options include:

• Nasi Lemak – one of Malaysia’s most popular foods. It’s a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal, boiled eggs, fried chicken, and peanuts.
• Nasi Kandar – also a rice-based dish served in a banana leaf. It is very popular in Penang.
• Satay – Meat skewers with a spicy sauce. Delicious!
• Char Kway Teow – one of the most popular dishes in Penang and simply divine. These are rice noodles fried in soy sauce and topped with vegetables and often shrimp.
• Nasi Goreng Kampung – spicy fried rice.
• Popiah – similar to spring rolls and it can have various fillings (from vegetables to meat)

Langkawi can be budget-friendly or luxurious, depending on your travel style. Accommodation ranges from affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels to luxury resorts.

Eating at local food stalls and the way you decide to get around the island can help keep costs down.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, comfortable shoes, sun protection (sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses), mosquito repellent, and a waterproof bag if you plan on island hopping.

Also, don’t forget to bring your passport and a travel adapter for electronics.

Yes, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Langkawi, as public transportation is limited. A rental car gives you the freedom to visit beaches, waterfalls, and other attractions at your own pace.

Langkawi is a duty-free zone! The best places for duty-free shopping are in Kuah Town. There you can buy chocolates, alcohol, perfumes, and electronics at lower prices.

Yes, Langkawi is an excellent destination for family travel. It offers a variety of fun and educational activities suitable for children and adults alike.

Some of the best places to visit in Langkawi with family include Langkawi Cable Car and Sky Bridge, Langkawi Island Hopping and SkyTrex Adventure. And, of course, let’s not forget the beaches.

Langkawi offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip! Whether you’re daydreaming about island-hopping tours, lush rainforests, or Malaysian cuisine, Langkawi is sure to exceed your expectations.

If you have any questions about planning your trip or need further tips, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments! I’d love to hear your thoughts, recommendations, or experiences if you’ve been to Langkawi before. Your insights can help other travellers make the most of their visit, too!

And if you found this guide helpful, why not share it with fellow travellers or save it for later? Safe travels, and get ready for an amazing adventure in Langkawi!

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