7 days in Ipoh, Malaysia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Nestled among lush limestone hills and flanked by majestic rivers, Ipoh is Malaysia’s fourth-largest city that’s brimming with culture, food, and hidden gems! Unknown to many, this hidden gem is quickly gaining fame with its delightful fusion of old-world charm and modern comforts. With stunning cave temples, mesmerizing street art, and lip-smacking dishes waiting around every corner, Ipoh offers something for everyone.
Things to consider before arriving in Ipoh
Affordable living: Cost of living in Ipoh is lower compared to other major Malaysian cities, making your stay comfortable and economical.
Food paradise: Get ready to satisfy your taste buds with Ipoh’s mouthwatering local cuisine, such as silky smooth “Ipoh hor fun” and aromatic “white coffee.”
Limited public transportation: Public transport options in Ipoh are pretty limited; renting a car or using local apps for rides would make exploring easier.
Ideal for history buffs and foodies: Ipoh is perfect for those who appreciate rich cultural heritage and finger-licking local dishes.
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable walking shoes: The best way to explore Ipoh’s picturesque charm is on foot.
2. Light clothing: Ipoh’s tropical climate requires breathable clothes to stay comfortable.
3. Umbrella or raincoat: Being ready for occasional rain showers is essential, especially during the monsoon season.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Ipoh is during the dry season, between March to May. This period offers pleasant weather and a relatively lower chance of rain, allowing you to explore the city comfortably.
How to get into the city
1. By train: Take the Electric Train Service (ETS) from Kuala Lumpur or Penang to Ipoh Railway Station, which is conveniently situated in the city center.
2. By bus: Numerous bus operators provide services to Ipoh’s Amanjaya bus terminal from various cities in Malaysia. Once at the terminal, you’ll need to take a connecting shuttle or taxi to the city center.
3. By car: Ipoh is easily accessible via major highways from Kuala Lumpur or Penang, with the North-South Expressway (E1) being the most direct route.
7 day city guide trip in Ipoh, Malaysia
Day 1 – Exploring Old Town
Start your day by checking out the stunning street murals scattered around Old Town. Stop by Yasmin at Kong Heng for breakfast – their famous nasi lemak is a must-try. After that, visit the beautiful Ipoh Railway Station, built during the British colonial era. End the day with a trip to the famous Ipoh Concubine Lane, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy the local food and drinks.
Day 2 – Temple hopping
Begin your day by visiting the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, followed by Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, where you can see the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites formations. Later, head to the Perak Tong Cave Temple, which offers stunning views of the surrounding valley. End the day by visiting the tranquil Kek Look Seah Temple, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Day 3 – Day trip to Taiping
Take a day trip to Taiping, just an hour away from Ipoh, and visit the Taiping Lake Gardens, which are the oldest gardens in Malaysia. After that, visit the Perak Museum and Taiping Zoo, which has over 180 species of animals. End the day with a visit to the famous Night Safari, where you can see nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat.
Day 4 – Foodie exploration
Ipoh is known for its delicious food, so start off with a visit to the famous Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken, where you can enjoy the famous Ipoh-style chicken rice. After that, head to Restoran Tauge Ayam Ong Kee for the best tauge ayam (chicken with bean sprouts). End the day by visiting the Pasar Malam (night market), where you can try out various local snacks.
Day 5 – Day trip to Cameron Highlands
Take a day trip to Cameron Highlands, which is about 1.5 hours away from Ipoh. Visit the tea plantations, which offer breathtaking views of the rolling hills and enjoy the famous scones and tea at the Boh Tea Centre. Visit the strawberry farms, where you can pick your own strawberries and enjoy various strawberry delights. End the day with a visit to the Butterfly Farm and the Cactus Valley.
Day 6 – Adventure day
Start off your day with a visit to the Lost World of Tambun, which is a water park and a theme park, offering various activities such as hot springs, water slides, and a petting zoo. After that, head to the Kledang Hill for a breathtaking trek, where you can see the beautiful terrain and enjoy the fresh air. End the day with a visit to the Gua Tempurung, which offers various adventure activities such as caving and rafting.
Day 7 – Shopping and relaxation
End your trip by visiting the AEON Kinta City Shopping Centre, which has various retail outlets of local and international brands. After that, head to the Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat, where you can enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatment.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Ipoh
If you’re looking to travel after your time in Ipoh, head to Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital city of Malaysia, located just three hours away from Ipoh by bus. Kuala Lumpur has a wide variety of attractions, including the famous Petronas Towers, the Batu Caves, and the vibrant Bukit Bintang area, which offers various shopping and dining options.
Another great option is to visit George Town, the capital city of the nearby Penang Island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its delicious street food, beautiful street art, and stunning colonial architecture. You can take a bus from Ipoh to George Town, which takes about three hours. Be sure to visit the Clan Jetties, Kek Lok Si Temple, and the Penang Hill for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
