Kuala Lumpur’s star attraction might be the dazzling Petronas Towers, but its charm stems from rich, multicultural diversity. Lantern-strewn markets, colonial architecture, temples and hawker stalls hide far below the futuristic skyscrapers, in districts dedicated to Malay, Chinese and Indian communities. So, you’re spoilt for options, when deciding where to stay in Kuala Lumpur.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – KLCC
Views of the Petronas Towers, in KLCC
Kuala Lumpur City Centre – known simply as KLCC – is icon central, with the Petronas Twin Towers and Menara KL Tower at its heart. This is the home of luxury hotels, with views from rooftop pools and enough dining, arts, culture and nightlife to outlast even the hardiest of travellers. It’s pricier than the rest of the city, but if it’s sophisticated luxury you want, it’s the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur.
Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Panoramic views from the rooftop pool, at Traders. ©Traders Hotel
You’ll feel like you’re up-close and personal with the Petronas Towers, at Traders Hotel. The luxury property is just a hop, skip and a jump from Suria KLCC Shopping Mall and the Convention Centre. Views from the rooftop pool will keep you mesmerised for hours, you can eat at one of two restaurants, have a drink at the SkyBar and workout at the 24-hour health club.
Where: KLCC
Phone: +60 3 2332 9888
Website: Traders Hotel
Le Apple Boutique
Shopping is right outside your door, at Le Apple. ©Le Apple Boutique
When you’re searching where to stay in Kuala Lumpur on a budget, KLCC isn’t the spot to save money. However, Le Apple Boutique is great value, considering its central location with direct access to Suria KLCC’s main shopping mall. The hotel is modern and contemporary, with rooms boasting all the mod-cons, like air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs. Onsite, you’ll find Rokko Japanese Grill Dining and a friendly vibe from staff.
Where: Jalan Ampang, KLCC
Phone: +60 3 2179 3777
Website: Le Apple Boutique
China Town
Bargain hunting and street food in colourful China Town
If you’re a bargain hunter, Chinatown is calling your name. Bursting with colour, aromatic food stalls and traditional tea houses, you’ll immerse in Chinese culture and tantalise your tastebuds. Visit Buddhist temples, in between shopping for bags, wallets, clothes, traditional souvenirs, fabrics and electronics. Don’t miss trying the salted roast duck, in Petaling Street.
The 5 Elements Hotel
5 Elements Hotel is an escape to nature, in the city. ©5 Elements Hotel
Choose from a Water, Fire, Wood, Earth or Metal suite at the themed 5 Elements Hotel. A step above much of the budget-accommodation in China Town, the boutique property is inspired by traditional Wu Xing philosophy, so your stay ensures harmony, in the midst of the hustle and bustle. Natural light, motif walls, flat screen TVs and room service add to the peaceful ambience and tour desk staff will help you arrange travel.
Where: Lot 243 Jalan Sultan
Phone: +60 3 2031 6888
Website: The 5 Elements Hotel
Reggae Mansion KL
Reggae Mansion’s famous roof parties. ©Reggae Mansion
When you’re looking for a ready-made party crew in KL, Reggae Mansion is where the action’s at. Set in a renovated colonial building, the hostel’s rooftop bar means you don’t miss out on skyline views, over a snack and a couple of beers. Pod-style beds make for comfy, private sleeping in the dorms, linen is included and you’ll find a laundry facilities and a tour desk.
Where: 53 Jalan Tun H.S Lee
Phone: +60 3 2072 6877
Website: Reggae Mansion
Bukit Bintang
Shopaholics stay in Bukit Bintang
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for trendy shopping and non-stop nightlife? Bukit Bintang. The district is a serious shopper’s paradise, with huge malls like Pavilion KL serving up designer brands and opulence. Entertainment ranges from thrills in Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, to fine-dining restaurants, rooftop bars, packed-nightclubs and live music venues.
Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur
Hotel Grand Millennium’s luxurious foyer. ©Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur
In keeping with the sophisticated atmosphere of Bukit Bintang, Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur is a luxurious retreat within the city to rest your weary shopping feet. Located just steps away from premium shopping destinations such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Lot 10, Farenheit88 and Starhill Gallery, the hotel is ideal for those who are looking to be within the hustle and bustle of the city. Wind down by cooling off at the outdoor pool or grab a drink at the stately Bistro 160 lounge before sinking into a plush bed in a guestroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that highlight dazzling city views.
Where: 160 Jalan Bukit Bintang
Phone: +60 3 2117 4888
Website: Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur
Find a room at Grand Millennium
Revopackers
Make new friends at Revopackers Hostel. ©Revopackers
You can still enjoy upmarket Bukit Bintang, without paying big dollars for a room. Revopackers is just steps from Berjaya Time Square shopping mall, with dorm rooms and private spaces for two people. All the rooms have their own en suites attached, plus air-conditioning. Onsite you can cook up a feast in the shared kitchen, hangout in the communal area and make use of free Wi-Fi.
Where: 258 Jalan Chang Kat Thambi Dollah
Phone: +60 3 9224 7655
Website: Revopackers
Brickfields
Little India serves up food and fun, in Brickfields
Step into a mini-Bollywood, with a stay at Brickfields. Home to KL’s Little India, you won’t have to stumble far for a roti feast, flower garland, spices or saris. It’s right on KL Sentral Station, with temples and monuments making it a tourist hotspot. Visit Sri Kondaswamy Kovil Hindu Temple, to see the ornate carvings on the entrance gate. The district offers plenty for backpackers, and 5-star accommodation close by in KL Sentral.
Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur Hotel
Le Meridien offers glamour in the city. ©Le Meridien
Le Meridien is a stylish oasis in glamourous Kuala Lumpur Sentral, but within walking distance to Little India. There’s a resort-style pool that would be at home on a beautiful beach and four dining options, including Venetian cuisine at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Favola. Visit the hair salon, spa or gym, if you need to look your best before a night out on the town.
Where: 2 Jalan Stesen Sentral
Phone: + 60 3 2263 7888
Website: Le Meridien
Signature Hotel Brickfields
The Signature Hotel Brickfields is fresh, bright and great value, in the heart of Little India. ©Signature Hotel
When you love to pop out for a curry at any time of the day or night, you’ll be able to smell it from Signature Hotel Brickfields, smack bang in the middle of Little India. You can’t miss the cheerful red and yellow exterior, while inside your cosy room offers satellite TV, tea and coffee and free Wi-Fi. Hop on the monorail close by or walk to Sam Kow Tong Chinese Temple.
Where: 73 Jalan Thambipillay
Phone: + 60 3 2274 9595
Website: Signature Hotel
Find a room at Signature Hotel
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
For something unique, check WithLocals for things to do in Kuala Lumpur which connects locals with travellers through their online platform and app. Travellers can book private and tailored tours with real locals and the activities range from home dinners, cooking classes, workshops, food tours, and more.
