The Petronas Towers are more than a Kuala Lumpur landmark: they’re the tallest twin towers in the world, and a symbol of Malaysia’s growing prosperity and ambition. The views from the 86th-floor Observation Deck are nothing short of spectacular – as is the thrilling Skybridge which connects the two towers, 170m above the ground.

Malaysian cuisine takes its influences from across Asia and farther afield, making it some of the most interesting and varied fare in the world. A visit to Jalan Alor is one of the top things to do in Kuala Lumpur – this bustling thoroughfare comes alive at night, lined with open-air restaurants and street vendors serving up Malaysian classics such as rich coconut-packed rendang, flame-licked satay and flaky roti canai.

The Central Market is one of the most interesting places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. This former wet market, with its Art Deco façade, was transformed into a marketplace for handcrafted products in the 1980s. Now this two-storey cave of wonders is jam-packed full of antiques, gifts, traditional fabrics, clothes and more. Next door, the Central Market Annexe focuses more on contemporary art.

No Kuala Lumpur holiday would be complete without visiting the city’s temples. The vibrant Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in the city, while the six-tiered Thean Hou Temple complex is one of the largest in Southeast Asia. Both are fascinating places to visit in Kuala Lumpur and offer prime insight into the city’s multicultural history.

There’s more to Kuala Lumpur than skyscrapers and temples, and a trip to this suburban district proves just that. During the day, this cosmopolitan area is the place to visit for modern art, great coffee, boutiques and artisanal crafts. When the sun sets, Bangsar transforms into one of the city’s most buzzy night time districts. Home to jazz clubs, sports bars, night clubs and gastrobars, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Petaling Street is often referred to as ‘Chee Cheong Kai’ – ‘Starch Factory Street’ in Cantonese, named for its one-time tapioca flour mill. A trip to this famous street in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown is much more than a history lesson, though. Today, it’s a bargain hunter’s paradise, lined with stalls selling everything from watches and handbags to delectable street food.

Stroll through the lush KL Forest Eco Park and you’ll find the 421-metre KL Tower at its heart. For a panoramic view different – and some may argue more impressive – to that of the Petronas Towers, head to the 300m-high Sky Deck. Get your thrills by stepping out onto the glass-floored Sky Box for truly unobstructed views of the city.

Just 20 minutes outside of the city are the Batu Caves – a must-visit for any Kuala Lumpur holiday. This limestone hill contains three major caves and several smaller ones, featuring temples and Hindu shrines. A 42-metre-tall golden statue of the Hindu deity Murugan stands guard over the entrance, and the 272 ‘rainbow steps’ which lead up to the Temple Cave. Those who manage the climb are rewarded with a stunning view of the city, as well as those atmospheric caves.

A day trip to Taman Negara offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This vast national park is more than 130 million years old and boasts a multitude of trails, river trips, canopy walkways and mountains. It’s also home to a wealth of rare animals, such as the Asian elephant and the Malayan tiger, gaur and peacock-pheasant.

The Cameron Highlands lie about three hours north of Kuala Lumpur – but the scenic drive alone makes it worth the trip. As you ascend the dramatic rolling hills of the region, the air becomes noticeably cooler, making it a great escape for the warmer months. Once you’ve sampled a cup of tea at one of the region’s many estates, head out and explore the hills where you’ll find waterfalls, temples and even an observation tower offering stunning views.

Kuala Lumpur may not be known for its beaches, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth a visit. Bagan Lalang Beach is just a short 30-minute drive from the airport, while a little further afield lies Port Dickson – a coastline of warm beaches and turquoise seas that stretch along a 10-mile region towards Malacca. Pantai Cahaya Negeri is the most popular beach in this area and makes for the perfect day trip from the city.