Ultimate Guide: What to Know Before Traveling to Europe from Malaysia

With its rich history, unique culture, amazing architecture, and varied climates, Europe is a dream destination for many Malaysians keen to explore something different. This is why millions of Malaysians visit Europe almost every year. But before you book a flight from Kuala Lumpur to one of the European countries, you need to know what it takes to travel from Malaysia to Europe. This is the ultimate guide to everything you should know about traveling to Europe from Malaysia.

Europese flag

Visa Requirements

Just like foreigners need a Malaysia tourist visa to visit the country, people of Malaysia also need to apply for visas before traveling to Europe. But this also depends on the country you plan to visit. For instance, Malaysians are entitled to a visa on arrival in the Schengen Zone. If you are planning to travel to Italy for a short visit (not more than 90 days within six months), you do not have to apply for an Italy visa beforehand. The same applies to the rest of the Schengen countries.

An ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is sufficient in this case. If you live and work in Malaysia but are a citizen of another country, you may need to check whether you need a visa to visit the Schengen countries.

The visa waiver for Malaysian citizens is limited to the Schengen Zone. You may have to apply for a visa for other European countries. For instance, Malaysians planning to visit the UK must apply for a UK tourist visa. Before applying for a visa for any of the other European countries, make sure you know all about the visa processes. Seeking the help of a visa agent would be a good idea to ensure that you get the visa on time.

Best Time to Visit Europe

One of the most important things to know when visiting Europe from Malaysia is the best time to visit the continent. While there may be slight variations in temperature, the seasons of almost all of Europe can be divided into four. Here we present the pros and cons of visiting Europe in each of the seasons.

Summer (June to August): Summer is the tourist season in Europe, and the weather is quite hot and humid in most countries. However, northern European countries, like Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Ireland, the Alps, etc., experience quite a cool summer, with the temperatures below 20 degrees C. While the weather in summer is great for sightseeing and outdoor attractions, almost all the popular cities and places in Europe would be crowded. Moreover, holidaying in Europe during this season can be expensive, as accommodation and flight charges are quite high.

Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September and October): Spring and autumn are shoulder seasons in Europe. Spring is when the weather transitions from winter to summer, and autumn changes from summer to winter. While the landscapes in Europe are different during these seasons, the climate is quite pleasant during both times. Also, the tourist crowd is less during this time, Europe less expensive. Malaysian schools have term breaks for a few weeks in May-June and September, making these months a perfect holiday destination for a European family holiday.

Winter (November to March): Most of Europe has an extremely cold climate during the winter season, with some of the places experiencing snowfall. As Malaysia has a hot and humid climate throughout the year, Europe would be a good change for most of you. Malaysian schools are also closed for an annual break during December-January, making it ideal for holidays again. While you may have to dress up in layers when exploring Europe in the winter months, visiting in this season has several advantages. You can view a dreamy winter landscape, indulge in skiing and winter adventures, and participate in winter festivities like Christmas and New Year. Hotels and flights also offer massive discounts and deals during this season.

How to Travel to Europe?

You will find plenty of direct flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to the most popular European cities. Most major international airlines, like Malaysian Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia, Oman Air, etc., offer direct flights to most European cities, such as Rome, Paris, Berlin, Barcelona, London, and more. Make sure to book your flight tickets in advance to get a good deal, especially if you are planning for a summer European holiday. If you do not get a direct flight to the city you plan to visit, get a transit visa for the country you are flying through.

How to Travel within Europe?

When visiting Europe from Malaysia, it is highly unlikely that you would be sticking to just one city or even one country. Unless you have booked a European tour package, you must manage your transportation. But you don’t have to worry, as airways, roadways, and railways connect Europe well. You can travel from one European country to the other via budget airlines, trains, and buses. It is important to book tickets for these travel modes well in advance, as these are popular ways of traveling, and getting a reservation at the last minute may be a problem.

In the case of local transport, i.e., within the cities of Europe, you can rely on trams and metros. These are reliable and efficient. Getting transport passes would be a good idea to save time and money while traveling within the cities. Taxis and rideshares are also available in most European cities. A visit to any of the European countries would make you realize that the best way to explore Europe is on foot. If that feels like too much, you will also find bicycles for rent in most cities on this continent.

Important Things to Know While Visiting Europe from Malaysia

  • While the Euro is the currency used commonly, several countries have their own currencies. For instance, it is pound sterling in the UK, Lari in Georgia and Turkey, Forint in Hungary, Koruna in the Czech Republic, Franc in Switzerland, etc.
  • Every European country has its own language, although English is spoken in most major cities. To overcome language barriers, learn a few basic statements about the place you are visiting. You can also use Google Translate to translate things into English or Malay.
  • Pack outfits and other accessories as per the season you are visiting Europe. Check the weather of the place or places you are visiting and pack your things accordingly.
  • When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options for different budgets and requirements. You can opt for hotels, hostels, boutique hotels, Airbnbs, etc. Reserve your accommodations through booking sites or through a travel agent before you reach the place.
  • Always buy travel insurance that covers medical, accidental, and emergency expenses. It is extremely crucial when you are traveling to a new country.
  • One of the reasons Malaysians love to travel to Europe is to try its cuisine, and every country offers different types of cuisines. If you are looking for halal food, you will find it in areas with Muslim communities. In most popular European cities, you will also find vegetarian and vegan options.
  • Save the contact numbers of Malaysian embassies in the European countries you are traveling to. You must contact them in case of emergencies such as loss of passport, theft, accidents, etc.

Before you leave for your European holiday, seek advice from fellow Malaysians who have already explored the continent. They’re easy to find on social media. This will help you get a first-hand experience of Malaysians in Europe, including what to see and do, what to expect, common mistakes to avoid, cultural surprises, dos and don’ts, and more.

Other blog articles in the guide

Must-Do’s During Your City Trip in Amsterdam

Must do's during your trip in Amsterdam A city trip to Amsterdam is like exploring a vibrant, historical treasure trove, filled with cultural gems and unique experiences. This city, famous for its picturesque canals, historical buildings, and liberal culture, offers a...

The Upside Down Museum Amsterdam

It's only a recent thing, but 'Instagram museums', as they are called, are very popular! Young people in particular are amazed by the bizarre and extravagant surroundings. There are several in the Netherlands, but perhaps the most popular is the Upside Down Museum. In...

Whit Sunday & Pentecost in the Netherlands

Having an extra day off or a long weekend is always a source of joy! This applies to the weekends during Easter, but certainly also to Pentecost or the Whit Sunday (White Sunday), as it is commonly called in the Netherlands. If you are looking forward to something to...

5 Tips for travelling cheaply by train

5 Tips for travelling cheaply by train in the Netherlands Are you looking for a way to travel cheaply by train in the Netherlands? Understandable! It can save you a lot of money if you look at which subscription suits your travel movements in advance, and taking the...

NMBS

If you want to travel by train within Belgium, you will normally travel with the NMBS in the Flemish region. In Wallonia, this is called the SNCB, but it's the same company. Train transport in Belgium is provided by the Belgian National Railway Company, also known as...

France Toll Calculator: What are the rates?

You are planning to go on vacation in France and want to prepare an itinerary in advance? Do you want to know how much to budget for toll fees on your route? See below for a list of useful options to calculate toll costs in France. How to calculate the price of a toll...