If you have time to enjoy in Kota Bharu there are a number of lovely museums (though most are in Malay language) centred around Padang Merdeka. Some of the best include the Kelantan State Museum, Handicraft Museum and the Museum of Royal Kelantanese Traditions. The museums usually open Saturday to Thursday, closing on Friday.

A cultural show can be enjoyed at the Culture Centre during the week (enquire for up to date times/days). Other highlights include the street art around Jalan Dato Pati, a river cruise along Sungai Galas, the Stong Waterfall and the local temples including Wat Pothivihan, which houses a huge reclining buddha.

By night head to Pasar Malam, the night market, to feast on traditional Kelantan cuisine at one of the many hawker stalls. The night market can be found close to the Central Market.