Petronas Towers vs KL Tower: which one is the best?

Last Updated on April 28, 2026 by Ioana

Visiting an observation deck is one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur. The city skyline is impressive, and seeing it from above gives you a completely different perspective.

But once you start planning, you’ll quickly run into the same question: KL Tower or Petronas Twin Towers: which one is actually worth it?

These are the two most popular observation decks in Kuala Lumpur, and while they both offer great views, the experience is very different.

In this guide, I’ll compare Petronas Towers vs KL Tower, including views, experience, prices, and tips, so you can decide which one is the better fit for your trip. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Find out more here.

Overall recommendation

The KL Tower observation deck is my top choice. That’s because it’s an open-air observation deck and it has a 360-degree view of Kuala Lumpur. 

While Petronas Towers are the world’s tallest twin towers, it’s nicer to get a view of them from KL Tower. The Petronas Twin Towers only offers an indoor experience and you only get an up-close view of one of the towers.

This is just my personal preference and your mileage might vary. But at least you’ll know what to expect from both options so you can choose the right one for you.

👉 If you’re deciding what else to include in your trip, check out my Kuala Lumpur bucket list for all the must-do experiences.

KL Tower (Menara KL)

KL Tower, also called the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower, is a 421 meter telecommunications tower. It’s the seventh tallest telecommunications tower in the world and one of the tallest buildings in KL.

The top of KL Tower has a 360 degree open air observation deck. You’ll be able to get a spectacular view of the city, including the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

The KL city skyline is gorgeous and visiting KL Tower’s observation deck is one of the top things you should do in the Malaysian capital.

Ticket prices are similar for KL Tower and Petronas Twin Towers, about $30 USD. If you are on a tight budget and can only visit one of them I recommend you go with KL Tower.

I would say 2 hours is enough time to visit KL Tower. You will be able to get some cute pictures on the ground level with the KL Tower sign and the KL Tower in the background.

And you’ll also have plenty of time to go up and enjoy incredible views of the city.

👉 If you’re planning your days, I show exactly how to combine KL Tower with other nearby spots in my 3-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary.

Getting to KL Tower

If you decide to walk to KL Tower I have to warn you that you’ll have to go on an incline road for about 15-20 minutes.

While this elevated walk typically sounds great, remember that the weather in KL is incredible hot and humid. So it will feel like a workout and you’ll be really sweaty by the time you reach the tower.

​I took a Grab car to KL Tower and I walked back after my visit. It was a much nicer experience.

👉 If you’re wondering where to stay to make getting around easier, check out my guide on where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for first-time visitors.

If you decide to visit both KL Tower and the Petronas Towers I suggest you start with KL Tower and then go to Petronas.

This way you can get a Grab ride to KL Tower and then walk from KL Tower to Petronas as the two attractions are a short walk from one another.

Petronas Twin Towers

The Petronas Twin Towers are probably the most iconic landmarks of Kuala Lumpur. They are also a symbol of the city and the tallest twin towers in the world.

I lived in NYC, so I’ve seen plenty of skyscrapers: Empire State Building, World Trade Center, Chrysler Building etc. But I have to say there is something special about the Petronas twin skyscrapers. They have that wow effect that not a lot of tall buildings have.

The observation deck is less impressive compared to KL Tower. That’s because the entire experience is indoors, while you get an outdoors experience at KL Tower.

In addition, you’ll get a close-up view of one of the twin towers since you’ll be in the other one. But the panoramic views of both twin towers from KL Tower is much better.

They do have some interactive exhibits and opportunities for taking pictures, like a glass box, which are pretty cool. And of course, there is a souvenir shop too. 

​You will have to pick a time slot when visiting the towers. They have slots available every 15 minutes. Since it’s such a popular tourist attraction the tickets sell out, so I suggest you buy your ticket in advance.

After the visit you should make a quick stop at KLCC Park to take some pictures with the twin towers in the background.

👉 If you want more spots like this (including hidden ones most people miss), check out my Kuala Lumpur hidden gems guide.

At the base of the towers you can find the Suria KLCC shopping mall. It’s one of the best malls in the city and it has a lot of shops. If you’re looking to go on a shopping spree while in KL, I recommend the Suria KLCC mall, as well as Pavilion Mall.