If you aim to immerse yourself in exotic Asian cultures to the fullest during a single trip, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore are a great combo. They perfectly blend tropical beach fun, rich cultures, and diverse foodie experiences. Bordering with each other, transportation is quite convenient as well.
However, planning a multi-country trip is not easy. Dealing with the travel logistics could even be overwhelming. So, here we have prepared an experience-backed guide for you.
How Many Days to Spend in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
For a comfortable tour pace, you're advised to spend at least 2 weeks on a trip to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Thailand, the top destination in Southeast Asia, is worth spending more time in, typically 9 days to 2 weeks. To enjoy the best of Thailand, don't miss Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and a tropical island. For an in-depth exploration, you could also venture off the beaten track to Kanchanaburi and Chiang Rai.
Malaysia is famous as a melting pot of diverse cultural and historical sites, so 3–10 days are enough. First-timers usually focus on Kuala Lumpur and the surrounding cities, such as the Cameron Highlands, Malacca, and Penang. Consider visiting Taman Negara and Borneo if you're into adventures.
You're advised to spend 2–3 days in Singapore as it is small and known for its modern vibe as well as being an air hub.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Bangkok and Chiang Mai
In Bangkok, our guide Ann and driver "Mr. Ot" (I don't know how to spell his name) were very friendly and professional. You simply can't underestimate the value of having an English speaking guide to show you around, and a driver with a comfortable, sizeable, air-conditioned van take you from place to place. Ann taught us so much about Thailand's history, food, and religion. Mr. Ot always opened our door with a smile, and had cool towels and ice-cold bottled water for us. More
, Apr 2024
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Very great experience our driver D was…
Very great experience our driver D was never late and always had waters and a cold towel for us and our tour guide Som was very informative and had amazing English I recommend them both highly for anyone else traveling More
Rylan Coache, Feb 2024
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Excellent guide in Siem Reap
Our recent time spent in Siem Reap was made even more memorable by our expert guide, Som Piseth. Som was knowledgeable, attentive, flexible and super helpful - we learnt so much about Siem Reap and Cambodia in our 3 days with him. His English was excellent and his knowledge of, and pride in, his country was outstanding. We would highly recommend Som for anyone wanting an excellent guide in Siem Reap! More
Sharon Townshend, Feb 2024
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Itinerary Suggestions for Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
We have carefully designed two handpicked itineraries to show what is possible, which are detailed below: a 2-week one to discover the best of Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore and a 3-week one for deeper insights. If you have a different schedule or interests, feel free to contact us for a personalized itinerary.
1. A Classic 2-Week Itinerary for Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
If you're first-timers with a limited time of 2 weeks, you're advised to focus on the iconic highlights for a general insight into these three countries. Check out the following thoughtfully-planned itinerary.
- 8 days in Thailand: Bangkok (2–3 days), Chiang Mai (2–3 days), and one island (4–5 days)
Discover Bangkok's city highlights with a foodie tour and long-tail boat ride, participate in elephant sanctuary life and take a walking tour in Chiang Mai, and relax on the picturesque island of Phuket or Koh Samui.
Lovely girls in Long Neck Karen Village, in Thailand- 3 days in Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur (2–3 days) and Malacca (1 day)
Have a glimpse of Malaysia's modern life, sail through the Selangor River's mangroves, spotting fireflies in the forest, and witness the rare blue tears phenomenon in Kuala Lumpur, and then discover the rich heritage and European colonial buildings in Malacca.
Beautiful overwater resorts in Malaysia- 3 days in Singapore
Explore the futuristic skylines along Marina Bay, experience the hawker culture on an interesting foodie tour, and dive into the colorful Asian culture in local communities. Going on a night safari would add an exciting touch to your trip.
Want more itinerary ideas about a 2-week Southeast Asia trip? See our 2-Week Southeast Asia Itineraries for Couples, Families, and More>>>
2. A Comprehensive 3-Week Journey through Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
Beyond the highlights of the 2-week itinerary, this itinerary offers more outdoor adventures in Thailand and Malaysia. If you're active travelers, look no further than this for some of the top things to do.
Venture into the mysterious Golden Triangle and hill tribe villages in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Have a more thorough exploration of Malaysia: trek around a hill station in the Cameron Highlands, seek thrills in Taman Negara (such as its Canopy Walk), and take a foodie walking tour and cycle around George Town in historical Penang.
The following is a recommended outline itinerary:
- 11 days in Thailand: Bangkok (2–3 days), Chiang Mai (2–3 days), Chiang Rai (2 days), and one island (4–5 days)
- 8 days in Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur (2–3 days), Taman Negara (2 days), the Cameron Highlands (2 days), and Penang (2–3 days)
- 2 days in Singapore
Read our 3-week Southeast Asia itineraries for more itinerary ideas for your first SE Asia trip.
How Much Is a Trip to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore?
For an exclusive and stress-free family or couple trip to Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, a customized private tour is the way to go.
A private tour to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore usually costs about US$200–250 per person per day, including 4-5 star hotels, meals, transportation, and private touring. For a 2-week private trip with two adults and two kids, budget for about US$9,500–12,000, while a couple could expect to spend about US$5,600–7,000.
Travel with us and you would have the services of our highly-praised guides and drivers, enjoy our exclusive activities, such as a Loy Krathong tour in Thailand in November, and stay at well-selected boutique hotels at the best agent rates. To further reduce the cost per person, consider inviting more family and friends to join the journey.
Read more about planning a couple's trip to Southeast Asia>>>
Best Times to Visit Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
For a trip to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, November to April is the best season for Thailand, when your trip would not be affected by the minimal rainfall.
During this period, you are likely to encounter rainy days in Singapore and Malaysia (KL) as they have moderate to very high rainfall during this period. Singapore's rich indoor activities make it less affected by rainfall, which mainly comes as afternoon or evening downpours.
If you're planning a summer trip, travel is still possible in Thailand's wetter months. You could enjoy better weather prospects in Singapore and the eastern coast of Malaysia then, and you could take advantage of low costs and fewer crowds in Thailand.
Check out more on our Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia
Which Country to Enter First?
For better travel logistics, you're advised to travel in the sequence of Thailand–Malaysia–Singapore or vice versa.
Given Malaysia's central geographic location between Thailand and Singapore, this tour sequence minimizes detours and time in transportation. Additionally, choosing this order provides more international flights from/to your home country, increasing the chances of securing better airfare deals. Therefore, flying to and from Thailand and Singapore proves to be more efficient and cost-effective.
You could find more inspiration for planning your dream trip in How to Plan a First Trip to Southeast Asia>>>
How to Get Around Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
Flights are the most chosen way for multiple-country travel in Southeast Asia. For your trip to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, you could travel between the countries within 3 hours. It also helps to avoid the hassles of crossing the borders on land.
For a more relaxing tour pace, you could also consider international cruises. Without frequent transportation and hotel changes, you could have more quality time with your loved one against the scenic backdrop of the open sea.
When exploring a single country, private transfers (which we provide as part of our travel packages) are highly recommended for shorter journeys if you prefer more flexibility and comfort.
Plan Your Trip to Southeast Asia
You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs.
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Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
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