Kuching, the laid-back capital of Sarawak, is a city where heritage, food, and nature meet. For travellers wondering about the best things to see in Kuching, the choices are as diverse as the people who call it home. From lively waterfront strolls and quirky museums to orangutans in the wild, every corner of this Bornean city offers something memorable. Renting a car with Hertz Malaysia gives you the freedom to explore both city highlights and nearby natural wonders without missing a thing.
1. Stroll the Kuching Waterfront and Cruise the Sarawak River
The Kuching Waterfront is the beating heart of the city, perfect for a morning walk or an evening by the river. Along this scenic promenade, you’ll find food stalls, cafes, and historical landmarks like the Old Courthouse. At sunset, the river lights up, and cruises offer postcard-worthy views of the State Legislative Assembly building. This is one of the most atmospheric things to see in Kuching.
- Cost: Free | River cruise ~RM25 per person
- Highlight: Best visited at dusk when the city lights reflect beautifully on the river.
2. Discover the Quirky Kuching Cat Museum
As “Cat City,” Kuching takes its nickname seriously, and nowhere is this clearer than at the Cat Museum. With over 4,000 feline-related exhibits, ranging from ancient statues to quirky pop culture items, it’s a fun stop for families and curious travellers. No wonder it’s one of the most unique Kuching attractions.
- Cost: RM5
- Tip: The oversized cat statues at the entrance are a must for lighthearted photos.
3. Feast on Local Flavours at Kuching’s Food Courts
Food is central to the city’s identity, and exploring its dishes is one of the tastiest things to see in Kuching.
- Top Spot Food Court: A rooftop hawker centre famous for seafood like butter prawns and grilled stingray.
- Lau Ya Keng Food Court: The place to try Sarawak Laksa and Kolo Mee.
- James Brooke Bistro: Riverside dining with colonial charm.
Highlight: Arrive early at Top Spot—it fills up fast after 7 pm.
4. Meet Orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
Located just 30 minutes from the city, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre gives you the rare chance to see orangutans in their natural environment. The centre rehabilitates rescued orangutans, and during feeding times, these semi-wild apes often swing down from the forest. It’s one of the most unforgettable things to see in Kuching.
- Cost: RM10 (adult), RM5 (child)
- Tip: Feeding sessions at 9 am and 3 pm are the best times to visit—arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
5. Explore Nature at Bako National Park
For adventurous travellers, Bako National Park is a must. Just outside the city, it offers diverse ecosystems, from mangroves to rainforests and secluded beaches. It’s also one of the few places where you can spot proboscis monkeys in the wild. Among all the things to see in Kuching, Bako delivers the strongest sense of Sarawak’s wild beauty.
- Cost: RM20 (adult), RM10 (child) + boat fee
- Highlight: Start early—the last return boat leaves around 3 pm.
6. Immerse Yourself at the Sarawak Cultural Village
Known as the “living museum,” the Sarawak Cultural Village brings the traditions of Sarawak’s many ethnic groups to life. Visitors can step into authentic longhouses, watch cultural dances, and try activities like blowpipe shooting. For anyone curious about Sarawak’s heritage, this is one of the top things to see in Kuching.
- Cost: RM60 (adult), RM30 (child)
- Tip: Catch the cultural performance—it’s the highlight of the day.
Hidden Highlights Around Kuching
Beyond the main attractions, Kuching offers lesser-known spots that add extra flavour to your trip. Kubah National Park is a favourite for nature photographers, especially at its frog pond where rare species like the tiny Matang narrow-mouthed frog can be spotted at night. For a mix of adventure and culture, the Fairy Cave just outside the city invites visitors into vast chambers filled with stalactites and moss-covered boulders, while the nearby Wind Cave Nature Reserve is home to bat colonies and cool underground streams.
If you’re in town over the weekend, the Satok Market is a must for local colour. Here, traders sell everything from fresh jungle produce to handicrafts, giving you a glimpse into everyday Sarawakian life. These hidden highlights may not be on every guidebook list, but they reveal another side of Kuching that rewards curious travellers.
Explore Kuching at Your Own Pace with Hertz Car Rental
To truly enjoy all these things to see in Kuching, flexibility is key. Many attractions, like Bako National Park and the Sarawak Cultural Village, are outside the city and not easily reached by public transport. With Hertz Malaysia, you can pick up your rental directly from Kuching International Airport and enjoy:
- Rates from RM150/day
- Unlimited mileage
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Highlight: Driving gives you the freedom to explore both the main attractions and hidden gems without rushing.
Final Thoughts
From riverside strolls and seafood feasts to orangutans and cultural showcases, there’s no shortage of things to see in Kuching. Each attraction tells a different story of the city—its past, its people, and its natural treasures. With Hertz Malaysia car rentals, you can explore them all at your own pace, turning your trip into a journey of discovery across Sarawak’s most captivating city.
