How to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA) to Petronas Twin Towers

Getting from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA & KLIA2) to the Petronas Twin Towers in KLCC is straightforward once you decide between the fast KLIA Ekspres train plus LRT, cheaper airport buses, door-to-door taxis or ride-hailing, or even a self-drive car rental; this guide walks you through timings, costs and step-by-step instructions so you can reach the towers with minimal stress.

At A Glance (Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA) to Petronas Twin Towers)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚄 KLIA Ekspres / Transit + LRT (KLIA/KLIA2 → KL Sentral → KLCC)	~45–60 minutes total	Fastest, predictable timing
🏷️ Cost: ~RM 55–65 one-way (adult) » compare airport trains | KLIA Ekspres details
🚌 Airport Bus + LRT (KLIA/KLIA2 → KL Sentral → KLCC)	~1–1.5 hours	Budget-conscious travelers
🏷️ Cost: ~RM 20–25 (bus + LRT) » compare buses | KLIA airport bus tickets
🚗 Taxi / Ride-hailing / Private Transfer (Door-to-door)	~50–75 minutes (traffic-dependent)	Comfort, heavy luggage, late-night arrivals
🏷️ Cost: ~RM 80–150 per car » private transfers | Welcome Pickups | GetTransfer options
🚘 Self-Drive Rental Car (KLIA/KLIA2 → KLCC)	~1–1.5 hours (including car pick-up)	Those continuing road trips beyond KL
🏷️ Cost: From ~RM 150+/day rental (fuel, tolls, parking extra) » compare KLIA car rentals

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most Convenient: KLIA Ekspres + LRT – fastest into the city with predictable journey time and easy connection to KLCC.
• Cheapest: Airport bus + LRT – slower than the train but much cheaper, ideal for backpackers or longer stays.
• Most Comfortable Door-to-Door: Taxi / ride-hailing / private transfer – perfect after a long flight, with hotel drop-off near the towers.
• Best if You Plan a Road Trip: Self-drive rental car – good if KL is just your first stop before exploring places like Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands or Penang.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Buy train and bus tickets online when busy: For weekends, holidays and peak months, prebook KLIA Ekspres or bus tickets on platforms like 12Go or via Klook airport trains & buses to avoid queues.
• Have some cash or a contactless card: LRT and MRT use tokens or stored-value cards (Touch ‘n Go/TRavelKad); you can top up at machines in KLIA and KL Sentral.
• Ride-hailing apps: In Kuala Lumpur, Grab is the most widely used app-based taxi. Use it as a budget-friendly alternative to prebooked services from Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer.
• Consider luggage logistics: If you want to explore KLCC before hotel check-in, store bags at KL Sentral or in the city with Radical Storage Kuala Lumpur.
• Traffic peaks: Road journeys (bus/taxi) can be much slower during weekday rush hours (7–9am, 5–8pm) and when heavy rain hits, so build in buffer time.
• Overnight arrivals: If you land after midnight, check that your chosen bus/train still runs; if not, default to taxi or prebooked transfer.
• Plan your onward transport from KLCC: For wider city exploration later, scooters and motorbikes can be rented via BikesBooking Kuala Lumpur or book hotels around KLCC/Bukit Bintang on Booking.com Kuala Lumpur.

🚄 Option #1 — KLIA Ekspres / Transit + LRT (Fastest, Most Convenient)

Fast Predictable Luggage-friendly

• Overview: Take the non-stop KLIA Ekspres or KLIA Transit train from KLIA/KLIA2 to KL Sentral (~28–35 minutes), then transfer to the Kelana Jaya LRT line bound for Gombak and ride 4 stops to KLCC station. From there, walk indoors through Suria KLCC mall to the Petronas Twin Towers.
• How to book (with price): Expect around RM 55–60 one-way (adult) for the airport train plus ~RM 2–3 for the LRT. You can buy train tickets at KLIA or book discounted QR-code tickets via Klook's KLIA Ekspres guide or compare routes on 12Go.
• Pros: Fastest way into town, runs frequently, avoids road traffic, easy for first-time visitors.
• Cons: Slightly higher cost than bus; requires one transfer at KL Sentral and a short walk at KLCC.

Step-by-step: KLIA Ekspres / Transit + LRT

1. After clearing immigration and customs at KLIA or KLIA2, follow the purple Train / KLIA Ekspres signs down to the airport train station.
2. Purchase a one-way or return ticket from the counter or vending machines, or simply scan your prebooked QR code from Klook's KLIA Ekspres ticket.
3. Board the KLIA Ekspres (non-stop) or KLIA Transit (stops along the way) train to KL Sentral. Trains typically depart every 15–30 minutes.
4. On arrival at KL Sentral, follow signs for the Kelana Jaya Line (KJ line) LRT. You may need to exit fare gates and re-enter the LRT area.
5. Buy an LRT token to KLCC station or tap in with a Touch 'n Go card or contactless payment.
6. Board an LRT train heading towards Gombak, then alight at KLCC (about 5–10 minutes ride).
7. In KLCC station, follow signs to Suria KLCC / Petronas Twin Towers. You’ll emerge directly underneath or beside the towers via the air-conditioned mall.

Getting to the main embarking points (KLIA / KLIA2 Train Station & KL Sentral)

• Within KLIA/KLIA2: The KLIA Ekspres/Transit station is integrated into both terminals. Just follow the purple KLIA Ekspres signage from arrivals; lifts and escalators are available for luggage.
• From other airports (e.g., Subang/SZB): If you arrive via Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, take a taxi or Grab to KL Sentral, then use the Kelana Jaya LRT to reach KLCC, skipping the airport train.
• From KL hotels: If you’re already in the city and heading back to the airport, get to KL Sentral by LRT/MRT/monorail, then ride KLIA Ekspres out to the terminals.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Airport Bus + LRT (Cheapest, Good Value)

Low cost Frequent departures Traffic-dependent

• Overview: Ride a dedicated airport bus (Aerobus, SkyBus, etc.) from KLIA or KLIA2 to KL Sentral (~1 hour in light traffic), then transfer to the Kelana Jaya LRT line for the short hop to KLCC station and the Petronas Twin Towers.
• How to book (with price): Bus tickets cost around RM 12–15 one-way; add ~RM 2–3 for the LRT. You can pay on-site or prebook on 12Go (KLIA→Kuala Lumpur) or via Klook's KL Sentral airport bus.
• Pros: Cheapest airport–city transfer; plenty of luggage space; tickets easy to buy.
• Cons: Slower and more affected by traffic than the train; still requires an LRT transfer and walk at KLCC.

Step-by-step: Airport Bus + LRT

1. At KLIA or KLIA2 arrivals, follow signs to the Bus / Coach terminal (usually downstairs from arrivals).
2. Look for buses to KL Sentral. Buy a ticket at the counter or via your prebooked voucher from Klook or 12Go.
3. Board the bus and place your luggage in the hold or on the racks as directed. Journey time is normally about 1 hour but can be longer in peak traffic.
4. On arrival at KL Sentral, follow signs into the main station concourse and onward to the Kelana Jaya LRT platforms.
5. Buy an LRT token or tap in with Touch 'n Go/contactless, then ride towards Gombak, alighting at KLCC.
6. Walk through Suria KLCC mall to reach the Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park.

Getting to the main embarking points (KLIA / KLIA2 Bus Terminal & KL Sentral)

• At the airport: Bus bays are clearly signposted and usually located at the lower ground floor. Allow a few extra minutes to find your bus stand.
• At KL Sentral: Airport buses depart from the lower level bus area; when heading back to the airport, follow Airport Bus signs or ask staff if unsure.
• Good for late-night or early-morning flights: Some operators run early and late services, but timetables vary—always double-check your departure time.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #3 — Taxi / Ride-hailing / Private Transfer (Door-to-door)

Comfortable Door-to-door 24/7

• Overview: Travel straight from KLIA/KLIA2 arrivals to the Petronas Twin Towers area (or your KLCC hotel) by official airport taxi, Grab, or a prebooked private transfer. No transfers or luggage hauling through stations.
• How to book (with price): Standard airport taxis and Grab rides to KLCC are usually around RM 80–120 depending on time of day and vehicle type. For fixed-price private transfers, compare options on Klook KLIA transfers, GetYourGuide airport transfers, Welcome Pickups Kuala Lumpur, or GetTransfer.
• Pros: No transfers; ideal with kids, seniors, or big luggage; very convenient for late-night/early-morning arrivals.
• Cons: More expensive than train or bus; travel time varies with traffic.

Step-by-step: Taxi / Ride-hailing / Private Transfer

1. After exiting customs, follow signs for the Taxi / Ride-hailing counters, or open your Grab app/transfer voucher.
2. For official taxis, buy a coupon or ticket at the airport taxi counter, stating your destination (e.g., "Petronas Twin Towers" or your hotel name).
3. If you booked a private transfer via Klook, GetYourGuide, Welcome Pickups, or GetTransfer, meet your driver at the designated meeting point (often with a name sign).
4. Share the exact drop-off point – "Suria KLCC", "Petronas Twin Towers", or your hotel – so the driver can choose the closest entrance.
5. Ride into the city via the highway; typical journey time is 50–75 minutes depending on traffic and weather.
6. On arrival, confirm your pickup plan or return transfer if you haven't booked it yet.

Getting to the main embarking points (KLIA Taxi / Ride-hailing Zones)

• Official taxi counters: Located just outside arrivals in both KLIA and KLIA2. Use these to avoid unlicensed touts.
• Grab pickup zones: Grab has signed pickup areas at both terminals; the app will direct you to the correct door and level.
• When to choose this option: Very early/late flights, travelling with small children, lots of luggage, mobility issues, or when you simply want a stress-free ride.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚘 Option #4 — Self-Drive Rental Car (Flexible, Best for Road Trips)

Flexible Good for onward travel City traffic & parking

• Overview: Pick up a rental car at KLIA/KLIA2 and drive yourself to the KLCC area, then continue to other Malaysian destinations during your trip.
• How to book (with price): Daily rates from around RM 150–250 for a small car, excluding tolls, fuel and parking. Compare rental brands and prices for pickup at KLIA on Booking.com Car Rental (Kuala Lumpur).
• Pros: Total flexibility, especially if you plan to drive onwards to other cities or attractions.
• Cons: KL traffic and parking can be stressful and sometimes expensive; not necessary if you only stay in central KL.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive Rental Car

1. Reserve your car ahead of time at KLIA or KLIA2 via Booking.com Car Rental Malaysia or directly with a major rental company.
2. On arrival, follow signs to Car Rental desks, complete paperwork, and collect your vehicle from the designated parking bay.
3. Set your GPS or map app for Petronas Twin Towers or your KLCC hotel; most apps will route you via the main expressways (PLUS/ELITE and the MEX or alternatives).
4. Pay attention to toll plazas (use cash or, if provided, a Touch 'n Go card in your rental).
5. On reaching KLCC, locate your hotel car park or nearby paid parking (Suria KLCC and many office towers have underground parking for a fee).

Getting to the main embarking points (KLIA / KLIA2 Car Rental Areas)

• Car rental counters: Situated in the arrivals hall or just outside in both terminals; collect keys and documents here before heading to the car park.
• Return locations: Make sure you know which terminal and parking zone you must return the car to, especially if you depart from a different terminal.
• Driving tips: Malaysians drive on the left; seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers and speed cameras are common.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA) to Petronas Twin Towers)

How long does it take to travel from KLIA/KLIA2 to the Petronas Twin Towers?
Most journeys take between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours. KLIA Ekspres + LRT is usually fastest (~45–60 minutes), while buses and taxis can be slower in rush hour.

What is the cheapest way to go from KLIA to the Petronas Twin Towers?
The cheapest option is usually the airport bus to KL Sentral plus LRT to KLCC, costing around RM 20–25 total per person. It takes longer than the train but saves money, especially for solo travelers.

What is the most convenient option if I have lots of luggage or arrive late at night?
A taxi, Grab ride, or prebooked private transfer from the airport to your hotel near the Petronas Twin Towers is the most convenient, with door-to-door service and no train or bus transfers.

Can I go directly from KLIA to KLCC by train without changing?
No. All train options go via KL Sentral. From there, you must transfer onto the Kelana Jaya LRT line to reach KLCC station.

Are there luggage storage options near KLCC if I want to sightsee before hotel check-in?
Yes. In addition to some hotel day-use options, you can book luggage storage around Kuala Lumpur (including central areas) through services like Radical Storage, which has partners near transport hubs and attractions.