When considering how to transfer from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center, you have five main options to choose from: a taxi, a Kuala Lumpur Airport transfer, a choice of trains, or the bus.
The most efficient and stress-free option is to take a Kuala Lumpur Airport taxi or private transfer, each with a traveling time of about 50 minutes. These are ideal if you’re traveling with luggage, as they provide door-to-door transfers.
Your second option is to take the Klia Ekspres or the KLIA Transit train. Both options terminate at KL Sentral station and take 28 or 35 minutes, respectively, and the cost is the same. The difference between the two is that KLIA Ekspres is a direct service with no stops, whereas the Transit service offers more flexibility for anyone not getting off in the city.
Lastly, the Express Coach bus runs from the airport to KL Sentral station and takes around 1 hour to reach the center. This is by far the cheapest option, perfect for those on a budget and not in too much of a hurry.
5 options from Kuala Lumpur Airport to Kuala Lumpur
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How to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city by taxi
Taxis depart from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city 24/7, offering a convenient door-to-door service in 50 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Two types of taxis operate from Kuala Lumpur’s main airport: red and white ‘budget’ taxis and blue or yellow ‘executive/premium’ taxis. Whichever you choose, taxis should have a rooftop ‘Teski’ sign.
From Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city your taxi cost will depend on whether you choose a metered taxi or if you purchase a coupon from a taxi counter at the airport with a set cost. Note that purchasing a coupon is typically more costly than a metered fare, dependent on weather, time of day, or the distance traveled.
How much is a taxi from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center?
If you choose to take a premium airport taxi, you will need to purchase a coupon from the Transport Desk located in the Baggage Claim and Arrival Hall areas on Level 3. You’ll be given a set price based on your destination, and once paid, you’ll be given a receipt to show to your driver.
If you decide to take a metered taxi, the price may be more or less, depending on traffic. In any case, from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center, the taxi fare should cost between €16.40 and €20.60 (MYR 80 – 100), or a little more for the premium taxi. Please note that when traveling at night between 00:00 and 06:00, taxi fares will increase by 50%, plus any tolls.
Where do I get a taxi from?
Taxis are available at the airport taxi ranks outside the Arrival Hall at both KLIA T1 and KLIA T2.
Convenience
A taxi to the city from Kuala Lumpur Airport is the fastest and most efficient transport option, as they provide a 24/7 door-to-door service. Taxis are also very convenient for those traveling with luggage, as you won’t have to navigate crowded bus and metro stations or squeeze your luggage onboard.
Useful Tips
Standard-sized taxis don't have much storage space; if you are traveling with a lot of luggage, it’s best to book a minivan.
When taking a budget taxi, don’t accept a set price from a driver who refuses to turn his meter on as this price will more than likely be higher than usual.
If your destination is outside the city center and longer than usual, it's polite to leave a 10% tip. Otherwise, you can just round up to the nearest 5 ringgits.
Only accept a set cost price when purchasing a coupon at an official taxi counter.
Make sure that your taxi driver has his license on display and that the meter has been reset and is running before leaving the airport.
How to get from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to the city center by private transfer
Similar to an airport taxi, Kuala Lumpur Airport transfers offer direct door-to-door service, reaching your downtown accommodation in around 50 minutes if traffic conditions are favorable. Private transfers go one step further, however, offering lots of additional perks such as access to a top-rated 24/7 customer service team, an airport meet-and-greet upon pick-up, competitive fixed-rate fares, and complete privacy in the comfort of a modern air-conditioned vehicle.
Furthermore, your English-speaking driver will be more than happy to share some of their local secrets with you as they give you a mini tour of the city on the way to your destination.
How much is a transfer from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center?
When you book a private transfer, you’ll have the added convenience of receiving a fixed fare quote before you hit confirm. This is great for anyone who likes to budget, but more importantly, this cost won’t change, not even if you get held up in traffic or overpack and have lots of luggage.
Given all the extra perks, a private transfer is very affordable. It costs just €23 for up to 3 passengers in one of our stylish sedans or €40 for up to 7 people in a spacious minivan with plenty of room for luggage and stretching out.
Booking is also easy. Just head to the website or download the app, enter your personal details and flight information, and select the time and date you’d like to be picked up. It’s that easy!
Cost
€23
Trip Duration
50 Min.
Your vehicle will be waiting for you on arrival.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfers are available 24/7 from Kuala Lumpur Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
On arrival at KLIA T1 or T2, you won’t need to go searching for a taxi. Instead, a friendly driver will be waiting to greet you in the Arrivals Hall, holding a sign with your name. You and any traveling companions will be helped with any luggage on the way to your pre-selected private vehicle, where your transfer will begin.
Convenience
For almost the same price as a taxi, private transfers offer a fully personalized service with complete flexibility – ideal for families or larger groups with specific needs to start their trip as smoothly as possible. Moreover, a private transfer is actually cheaper than the train if you’re a group of 3 or more people.
Useful Tips
Drivers at Welcome Pickups monitor each flight so in the event that your plane is delayed, they'll still be there to meet you right on time.
You can make special requests at the time of booking. This might include a minivan for a larger group, a specialised vehicle for wheelchair users or a baby seat for families.
It's best to select a pick-up time 30 minutes after your arrival to ensure you have enough time to clear Passport Control and Customs and then collect any luggage.
You won't be expected to tip your driver. However, it's not considered rude to tip if you should choose to.
How to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center by express train
There are two different train options when taking the metro from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city: you can either take the KLIA Ekspres or the KLIA Transit. The Ekspres (express) train is the fastest and most convenient option, as it takes you directly to KL Sentral in the city center in just 28 minutes, with no stops along the way. From there, you have several transport options that you can connect to, including the light rail and metro.
How much is the train from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center?
A one-way ticket on the KLIA Ekspres train costs €11.30 (MYR 55) for each adult passenger. You can purchase your ticket from the dedicated ticket counter available at either terminal using a card or cash. Otherwise, you can buy it in advance from the website or at the airport using a self-service kiosk. Lastly, you can tap your credit card at the gate before boarding, but remember to tap off when you disembark!
Cost
€11.30
Trip Duration
28 Min.
Ekspres trains run every 20 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The train operates every day of the year between 04:55 and midnight.
Where do I get the train from?
The train can be taken from both terminals, so you won’t need to worry about transferring between the two. From KLIA T1, make your way to Level 1 and follow the signs to the train. At Terminal 2, located at The Gateway, you’ll need to go to Level 2 and follow the signs from there.
Convenience
Although the metro is slightly cheaper than a taxi, it’s not the most convenient option for those staying in the city center, since you would need to connect with another transport mode at KL Sentral. This not only adds to your journey time but it can be quite inconvenient when travelling with children or luggage.
Timetables
KLIA T1 & T2 – KL Sentral
KLIA Ekspres Train Timetable
KLIA Ekspres Website
Useful Tips
Trains have the advantage of avoiding rush hour traffic, however, this is when they are the most crowded. To avoid extra stress, try avoiding these hours.
A 10% discount is applied to online ticket purchases.
The train journey between KLIA T1 and T2 is 3 minutes.
If you plan on returning to the airport from KL Sentral it is cheaper to purchase a return ticket.
Children under the age of six can travel for free.
Luggage racks are available onboard.
How to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center by train (Transit)
Similar to the Ekspres train, the Transit line makes stops at both terminals and also terminates at KL Sentral. However, the Transit service provides greater flexibility for onward travel, making stops at three additional stations along the way, including Bandar Tasik Selatan, Putrajaya/Cyberjaya, and Salak Tinggi. In total, the journey takes 35 minutes from KLIA T1 and 39 minutes from KLIA T2.
How much does the Transit trains service cost?
The Transit train costs the same as the Ekspres service: €11.30 (MYR 55) for an adult. Tickets can also be bought online, from the ticket counter or self-service kiosks at the airport, or by tapping your credit card at the entrance and exit gates.
Cost
€11.30
Trip Duration
35 Min.
The Transit service runs every 15 minutes during peak times and every 30 minutes during off-peak times and on weekends.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The first Transit train of the day departs KLIA T2 at 05:18 and the last one leaves at 00:30.
Where does the Transit train depart from?
The KLIA Transit train departs from Level 1 at T1 and from Level 2 at T2 Gateway. The airport is well signposted to guide passengers to the train platform, and staff are on hand to assist if they become lost.
Convenience
Since the Transit line costs the same as the Ekspres line and runs just as frequently, the only advantage it provides is that it makes more stops on its journey, which may be convenient for people not staying within the city center.
Otherwise, a much more convenient option is to pre-book a Kuala Lumpur Airport transfer. That way, you won’t have to worry about using timetables and tickets or making any connections; instead, you can be dropped right to your door for a competitive fixed fare rate.
Timetables
KLIA T1 & T2 – KL Sentral
KLIA Transit Timetable
Useful Tips
Transfer at KL Sentral to the light rail to reach Petronas Towers. The additional journey time is 15 minutes.
Tickets bought online must be used within a month of the selected travel date.
Children aged between 6 and 15 can travel for €5.20 (MYR 25).
WiFi is available on the platform and onboard the train.
The train is wheelchair-friendly.
How to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center by bus
The cheapest way to travel between Kuala Lumpur Airport and the city center is to take the bus. There are several bus services that regularly depart the airport to different destinations across Peninsular Malaysia. However, the quickest service to the city center is the Express Coach bus. This service takes one hour to reach KL Sentral and tickets can only be purchased from the airport on the day of travel.
How much is a bus ticket from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city?
A one-way bus ticket costs €2 (MYR 10). Tickets are available from the Transportation Hub (the area where the bus departs), which is located on the Ground Floor of the main terminal building, which is only a 3-minute walk from the arrivals area. You can purchase your bus tickets from counter number 3.
For your onward journey from KL Sentral to the city center (KLCC), you can buy your metro ticket at the station’s vending machines for €0.50 (MYR 2.50).
Cost
€2
Trip Duration
60 Min.
The bus departs every 30 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The bus is available daily between 06:30 and 00:30.
Where do I get the bus from?
You can find the bus at the KLIA bus station, on the Ground Floor of the main terminal building, only a 3-minute walk from the Arrivals Hall exit. Follow the signage for the ‘Transportation Hub.’
Convenience
Much like the metro, the bus does not go to the city center but stops at KL Sentral, requiring additional transport to get to your final destination within the city. For those traveling with luggage, this option can be quite an effort and time-consuming. The best option is a private transfer or airport taxi to the city center.
Useful Tips
A free shuttle service is available between KLIA T1 & T2 or you can ride the train which takes 3 minutes and costs €0.40 (MYR 2).
The price for a child is €1.25 (MYR 6).
When taking a taxi from KL Sentral you can also get a set fare with a taxi coupon.
Trains are often the preferred method of public transport due to their ability to avoid traffic, which can be heavy during peak hours.
The Light Rail Train (LRT) leaves from the KL Sentral station every 3 minutes between 06:00 – 23:59. Please note, that on special days there is a time extension to 01:00.
Kuala Lumpur Airport private transfers
Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
How much is a taxi from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city?
The taxi price from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center will depend on which type of taxi you take and whether you opt for a metered or pre-paid coupon. Nevertheless, the journey will cost at least €16.40 (MYR 80) to the city center, regardless of which option you choose.
How much is Grab from Kuala Lumpur Airport to city center?
The price of a Grab from the airport will depend on traffic, driver demand, and vehicle type. However, for a standard GrabCar, you can expect to pay between €13.40 and €20.60 (MYR 65 – 100).
How far is Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Airport from the city center?
From Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center the distance is 55 km. When traveling by car or taxi under normal traffic conditions, the trip takes around 50 minutes.
How many transport options are available from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Airport to the city center?
There are four transportation options between Kuala Lumpur Airport and downtown: a taxi, a private transfer, one of two train services, or a public bus. Taxis and private transfers offer a direct service in around 50 minutes. On the other hand, trains take just 28 to 35 minutes, making them perfect for avoiding traffic. A bus is the cheapest option, but the journey will take one hour, not including wait times.
Keep in mind that if you choose to take public transport, you will need to take an additional mode of transport from KL Sentral if you’re not staying in the area.
Taxis depart from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city 24/7, offering a convenient door-to-door service in 50 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Two types of taxis operate from Kuala Lumpur’s main airport: red and white ‘budget’ taxis and blue or yellow ‘executive/premium’ taxis. Whichever you choose, taxis should have a rooftop ‘Teski’ sign.
From Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city your taxi cost will depend on whether you choose a metered taxi or if you purchase a coupon from a taxi counter at the airport with a set cost. Note that purchasing a coupon is typically more costly than a metered fare, dependent on weather, time of day, or the distance traveled.
How much is a taxi from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center?
If you choose to take a premium airport taxi, you will need to purchase a coupon from the Transport Desk located in the Baggage Claim and Arrival Hall areas on Level 3. You’ll be given a set price based on your destination, and once paid, you’ll be given a receipt to show to your driver.
If you decide to take a metered taxi, the price may be more or less, depending on traffic. In any case, from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center, the taxi fare should cost between €16.40 and €20.60 (MYR 80 – 100), or a little more for the premium taxi. Please note that when traveling at night between 00:00 and 06:00, taxi fares will increase by 50%, plus any tolls.
Where do I get a taxi from?
Taxis are available at the airport taxi ranks outside the Arrival Hall at both KLIA T1 and KLIA T2.
Convenience
A taxi to the city from Kuala Lumpur Airport is the fastest and most efficient transport option, as they provide a 24/7 door-to-door service. Taxis are also very convenient for those traveling with luggage, as you won’t have to navigate crowded bus and metro stations or squeeze your luggage onboard.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreSimilar to an airport taxi, Kuala Lumpur Airport transfers offer direct door-to-door service, reaching your downtown accommodation in around 50 minutes if traffic conditions are favorable. Private transfers go one step further, however, offering lots of additional perks such as access to a top-rated 24/7 customer service team, an airport meet-and-greet upon pick-up, competitive fixed-rate fares, and complete privacy in the comfort of a modern air-conditioned vehicle.
Furthermore, your English-speaking driver will be more than happy to share some of their local secrets with you as they give you a mini tour of the city on the way to your destination.
How much is a transfer from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center?
When you book a private transfer, you’ll have the added convenience of receiving a fixed fare quote before you hit confirm. This is great for anyone who likes to budget, but more importantly, this cost won’t change, not even if you get held up in traffic or overpack and have lots of luggage.
Given all the extra perks, a private transfer is very affordable. It costs just €23 for up to 3 passengers in one of our stylish sedans or €40 for up to 7 people in a spacious minivan with plenty of room for luggage and stretching out.
Booking is also easy. Just head to the website or download the app, enter your personal details and flight information, and select the time and date you’d like to be picked up. It’s that easy!
Private transfers are available 24/7 from Kuala Lumpur Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
On arrival at KLIA T1 or T2, you won’t need to go searching for a taxi. Instead, a friendly driver will be waiting to greet you in the Arrivals Hall, holding a sign with your name. You and any traveling companions will be helped with any luggage on the way to your pre-selected private vehicle, where your transfer will begin.
Convenience
For almost the same price as a taxi, private transfers offer a fully personalized service with complete flexibility – ideal for families or larger groups with specific needs to start their trip as smoothly as possible. Moreover, a private transfer is actually cheaper than the train if you’re a group of 3 or more people.
Useful Tips
There are two different train options when taking the metro from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city: you can either take the KLIA Ekspres or the KLIA Transit. The Ekspres (express) train is the fastest and most convenient option, as it takes you directly to KL Sentral in the city center in just 28 minutes, with no stops along the way. From there, you have several transport options that you can connect to, including the light rail and metro.
How much is the train from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center?
A one-way ticket on the KLIA Ekspres train costs €11.30 (MYR 55) for each adult passenger. You can purchase your ticket from the dedicated ticket counter available at either terminal using a card or cash. Otherwise, you can buy it in advance from the website or at the airport using a self-service kiosk. Lastly, you can tap your credit card at the gate before boarding, but remember to tap off when you disembark!
The train operates every day of the year between 04:55 and midnight.
Where do I get the train from?
The train can be taken from both terminals, so you won’t need to worry about transferring between the two. From KLIA T1, make your way to Level 1 and follow the signs to the train. At Terminal 2, located at The Gateway, you’ll need to go to Level 2 and follow the signs from there.
Convenience
Although the metro is slightly cheaper than a taxi, it’s not the most convenient option for those staying in the city center, since you would need to connect with another transport mode at KL Sentral. This not only adds to your journey time but it can be quite inconvenient when travelling with children or luggage.
Timetables
KLIA T1 & T2 – KL Sentral
KLIA Ekspres Train Timetable
KLIA Ekspres Website
Useful Tips
Similar to the Ekspres train, the Transit line makes stops at both terminals and also terminates at KL Sentral. However, the Transit service provides greater flexibility for onward travel, making stops at three additional stations along the way, including Bandar Tasik Selatan, Putrajaya/Cyberjaya, and Salak Tinggi. In total, the journey takes 35 minutes from KLIA T1 and 39 minutes from KLIA T2.
How much does the Transit trains service cost?
The Transit train costs the same as the Ekspres service: €11.30 (MYR 55) for an adult. Tickets can also be bought online, from the ticket counter or self-service kiosks at the airport, or by tapping your credit card at the entrance and exit gates.
The first Transit train of the day departs KLIA T2 at 05:18 and the last one leaves at 00:30.
Where does the Transit train depart from?
The KLIA Transit train departs from Level 1 at T1 and from Level 2 at T2 Gateway. The airport is well signposted to guide passengers to the train platform, and staff are on hand to assist if they become lost.
Convenience
Since the Transit line costs the same as the Ekspres line and runs just as frequently, the only advantage it provides is that it makes more stops on its journey, which may be convenient for people not staying within the city center.
Otherwise, a much more convenient option is to pre-book a Kuala Lumpur Airport transfer. That way, you won’t have to worry about using timetables and tickets or making any connections; instead, you can be dropped right to your door for a competitive fixed fare rate.
Timetables
KLIA T1 & T2 – KL Sentral
KLIA Transit Timetable
Useful Tips
The cheapest way to travel between Kuala Lumpur Airport and the city center is to take the bus. There are several bus services that regularly depart the airport to different destinations across Peninsular Malaysia. However, the quickest service to the city center is the Express Coach bus. This service takes one hour to reach KL Sentral and tickets can only be purchased from the airport on the day of travel.
How much is a bus ticket from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city?
A one-way bus ticket costs €2 (MYR 10). Tickets are available from the Transportation Hub (the area where the bus departs), which is located on the Ground Floor of the main terminal building, which is only a 3-minute walk from the arrivals area. You can purchase your bus tickets from counter number 3.
For your onward journey from KL Sentral to the city center (KLCC), you can buy your metro ticket at the station’s vending machines for €0.50 (MYR 2.50).
The bus is available daily between 06:30 and 00:30.
Where do I get the bus from?
You can find the bus at the KLIA bus station, on the Ground Floor of the main terminal building, only a 3-minute walk from the Arrivals Hall exit. Follow the signage for the ‘Transportation Hub.’
Convenience
Much like the metro, the bus does not go to the city center but stops at KL Sentral, requiring additional transport to get to your final destination within the city. For those traveling with luggage, this option can be quite an effort and time-consuming. The best option is a private transfer or airport taxi to the city center.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 3 passengers
€25Starting from 8.3 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 7 passengers
€49Starting from 7 EUR / passenger
Minibus up to 12 passengers
€49Starting from 4.1 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city?
The taxi price from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center will depend on which type of taxi you take and whether you opt for a metered or pre-paid coupon. Nevertheless, the journey will cost at least €16.40 (MYR 80) to the city center, regardless of which option you choose.
How much is Grab from Kuala Lumpur Airport to city center?
The price of a Grab from the airport will depend on traffic, driver demand, and vehicle type. However, for a standard GrabCar, you can expect to pay between €13.40 and €20.60 (MYR 65 – 100).
How far is Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Airport from the city center?
From Kuala Lumpur Airport to the city center the distance is 55 km. When traveling by car or taxi under normal traffic conditions, the trip takes around 50 minutes.
How many transport options are available from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Airport to the city center?
There are four transportation options between Kuala Lumpur Airport and downtown: a taxi, a private transfer, one of two train services, or a public bus. Taxis and private transfers offer a direct service in around 50 minutes. On the other hand, trains take just 28 to 35 minutes, making them perfect for avoiding traffic. A bus is the cheapest option, but the journey will take one hour, not including wait times.
Keep in mind that if you choose to take public transport, you will need to take an additional mode of transport from KL Sentral if you’re not staying in the area.
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