Planet Rail · Tailor-made rail holiday

2026 Departures - The Eastern and Oriental Express - Wellness & The Essence Malaysia

2026 Departures - The Eastern and Oriental Express - Wellness & The Essence Malaysia, a rail journey with Planet Rail

The Essence of Malaysia journey aboard the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express is a luxurious train voyage through Southeast Asia's lush landscapes, blending cultural excursions with refined onboard elegance as it travels between Singapore and Malaysia.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Singapore

    Arrival in Singapore, check-in at Shangri-La Hotel

    Arrive in vibrant Singapore and make your way to the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel, set amidst 15 acres of tropical gardens. After check-in, take time to unwind and explore the tranquil surroundings or enjoy a refreshing swim. Settle into your elegant accommodations and begin your Southeast Asian escape with restful comfort and warm hospitality.

  2. Day 2overnight: Singapore

    Explore Singapore

    Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the Shangri-La Hotel before setting out to explore the dynamic city of Singapore. Discover world-class attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, or the vibrant neighbourhoods of Chinatown and Little India. Return to the hotel in the evening to relax amidst its lush surroundings or enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at Chi, The Spa.

  3. Day 3railovernight: On board the Eastern & Oriental Express

    Board the Eastern & Oriental Express, Essence of Malaysia begins

    After breakfast, depart the Shangri-La Hotel and transfer to the train station to board the iconic Eastern & Oriental Express. Settle into your elegant cabin as the train begins its Essence of Malaysia journey. Enjoy lunch on board, then relax in the Observation Car or indulge in a treatment at the Dior Spa. As the train winds through lush landscapes, dinner is served in the dining car.

  4. Day 4railovernight: On board the Eastern & Oriental Express, Butterworth

    Kuala Lumpur - Langkawi

    Enjoy breakfast in your cabin as the train glides past rice paddies and rural villages. After lunch, choose from three immersive excursions: relax on a secluded Langkawi beach with yoga, massage, and a mangrove boat ride; explore Perlis Geopark by bike and visit a historic tin mine; or dive into local culture with batik-making, antique browsing, and traditional afternoon tea. Return to the train for dinner and lively entertainment in the Piano Bar Car. Overnight stop in Butterworth.

  5. Day 5railovernight: On board the Eastern & Oriental Express

    Butterworth & Penang Island

    After breakfast, disembark for a crossing to Penang Island, Malaysia's cultural melting pot. Choose from curated excursions: explore George Town's vibrant street art and architecture by Vespa with a guide, enjoy a market visit and cooking lesson atop Penang Hill, or wander independently by trishaw through the charming streets. Rejoin the train at Butterworth for lunch and a relaxing afternoon onboard, with the option of an Asian-inspired treatment at the Dior Spa. Later, stroll through Ipoh's blend of old-world charm and street art before a celebratory dinner onboard as the train journeys overnight, passing Kuala Lumpur.

  6. Day 6rail

    Johor & arrival in Singapore

    Enjoy breakfast in the restaurant car while travelling through Johor, Malaysia's southernmost state, famed for its beaches and rainforests. Shortly after, the train crosses the strait into Singapore, where you disembark, taking with you unforgettable memories of your journey.

Included

  • Two night stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore (5 star) with breakfast
  • 3 nights aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express on the Essence of Malaysia journey
  • Meals on board the train, including breakfasts, lunches and dinners
  • Choice of immersive excursions in Langkawi and Penang

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