Wondering where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? I’ve visited Malaysia’s capital city several times so I have plenty of tips for the best areas, hotels and places to stay in Kuala Lumpur.
Often referred to as simply KL, the capital of Malaysia, is an exciting, modern, bustling, cosmopolitan city that fuses Chinese, Malaysian, and Indian cultures together. The iconic Petronas towers skyscrapers tower over the city skyline, while markets, food stalls, and malls dominate the city streets.
It’s a sprawling city with many different areas and a huge choice to hostels and hotels in KL, so keep on reading to find out the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur.
There’s plenty to see, do and eat in Kuala Lumpur but also leave time to simply explore the different places of worship and cuisine that makes this multicultural city famous. Known for it’s incredible food, shopping areas, and vibrant nightlife, Kuala Lumpur will steal your heart in no time.
Kuala Lumpur is also a major flight hub in Southeast Asia. If you are travelling around South East Asia you will probably end up passing through KL, maybe even a couple of times.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve visited KL now. Even though KL is a smaller and much more manageable city than Bangkok and has good public transport the connections can still be a little disjointed and it can be confusing trying to navigate your way around.
But the sprawling city still has a lot to offer and is definitely worth a few days of your time. That’s why it’s important to carefully plan where to stay in Kuala Lumpur to make the most out of your visit.
Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur
The best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur include Bukit Bintang, KL Sentral & Brickfields, Bangsar. KLCC, Chinatown, Petaling Jaya. These areas will appeal to different tastes and budgets so to help you decide on where to stay in KL.
So I put together this post that explains the different areas to stay with my recommendations of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur for all budgets from backpacker hostels to luxury hotels so there’s something to suit everyone!
Shopping fanatics and foodies may choose to stay in the Bukit Bintang area, which is known for its late night food stalls and designer clothing stores. For the more cultural stay, KL Sentral is the perfect area with a more relaxed environment and the chance to see temples and dine at international restaurants.
KLCC is right in the tourist hub of Kuala Lumpur, so you won’t need to travel far to see all of the known sites in Kuala Lumpur. Vibrant and colourful Chinatown is a wonderful area for those wishing to test their haggling skills as well as munch on some delicious cuisine. Petaling Jaya is just outside of the bustling city and a great place for a quieter, more relaxed stay in a residential area.
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The Best Areas to Stay in Kuala Lumpur:
Here are the most popular areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur and what each one has to offer:
Bukit Bintang
Known as the shopping and entertainment hub of Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang is one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur if you want lively nightlife, amazing food and great shopping including designer clothes, accessories, and jewellery.
You’ll find anything from Chinese food stalls, Malaysian food, and seafood, all until the early hours of the morning. If you’re a night person, shopping fanatic, or eat until you burst type of foodie, then Bukit Bintang is definitely the best place to stay in KL for you. It’s also centrally located, so it’s easily accessible to many other areas of the city.
Best Places to Stay in Bukit Bintang
Backpacker: KLBackpacker.com
Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this hostel is located less than 2 kilometres from iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers, as well as Dinner in the Sky KL and Berjaya Times Square and is one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur for backpackers.
The staff are friendly and accommodating and the hostel has good Wi-Fi. Overall, it’s cosy with a homey ambiance. The entire hostel is big enough to feel like you have your own space, but small enough that it’s easy to meet other travellers. Click here to book this hostel or check out prices.
Budget: InnB Park Hotel
This hotel is very clean and a well priced for budget travellers. You can choose to book a room that comes with a big breakfast that includes tons of delicious items! The beds are comfortable, and the hotel is incredibly clean overall.
The location is ideal for sightseeing and shopping; it’s in proximity to Fahrenheit 88, Lot 10, and Pavillion Shopping Mall. The water pressure in the showers is strong, and the bathrooms are spacious and all rooms come with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. To check out prices and to book, click here.
Midrange: Mercure Kuala Lumpur Shaw Parade
The year round rooftop outdoor pool and fitness centre makes this hotel one of the best choices in Bukit Bintang. It also boasts an incredible view of the city, and rooms are equipped with a flat screen TV, kettle, and free toiletries.
The hotel offers guests room service and free transport to various attractions around the city. The beds are comfortable; you can even control the lights around the room without getting out of bed! If you’re running late in the morning, the hotel also allows late check out if you prefer to have a lay in. Check out this hotel here.
Luxury: Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur
The helpful staff at the Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur Hotel will make you feel at home as soon as you arrive. The rooms are spacious and have beautiful, stylish and modern décor.
The lobby is grand and gives off the feeling of stepping into a royal palace. Some rooms offer balconies and incredible views of the city. The restaurant on site is known for its mouth watering and top quality entrees, and their room service is quick and efficient.
Additionally, it’s close to the hop on hop off bus that travels around the city. There’s a pool in the hotel as well for use if you wish to cool down and relax. The location, style and luxury makes this hotel one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur. To check out this hotel and get prices, click here.
KL Sentral & Brickfields
A more cultural part of Kuala Lumpur, KL Sentral & Brickfields are located in proximity to many Buddhist temples, which is a great way to immerse yourself into a new culture. It also boasts a ton of Indian eateries and shops with more unique finds, like lesser known clothing brands and quirky trinkets.
Brickfields, also known as Little India, has tons of colourful shops and restaurants that serve the famous south Indian banana leaf meal. This is one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur for culture vultures!
It’s also in a quieter part of the city, so if the hustle and bustle of central Kuala Lumpur seems daunting, then KL Sentral may be more suitable for you. Backpackers tend to flock to this area because of the cheap and affordable prices, friendly locals, and good food.
Best Places to Stay in KL Sentral & Brickfields
Backpacker: PODs the Backpackers Home & Café Kuala Lumpur
This hostel is the perfect spot for those of you looking for a clean and comfortable stay on a budget. The bathrooms are spotless and have big showers, with quality that matches hotel status. They provide toiletries to their guests, so if you’ve forgotten anything, you don’t need to worry. It’s near the KL Sentral Monorail, making it a great location for getting around the city. They offer comfortable blankets, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioned rooms. The on-site restaurant is known for its delicious breakfasts. Guests tend to hang out in the common area, making it a great spot to meet fellow travellers. This hostel is one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur for backpackers. Click here to get prices and book.
Budget: EasyHotel
This hotel is a great option for those of you who are on a budget but still want to stay centrally located. It’s directly in front of KL Sentral, and there are a ton of food options around the area of the hotel for every type of traveller. The bedrooms are well equipped, and the staff is very friendly, accommodating, and helpful with any questions you might have about Kuala Lumpur. This is one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur if you need a budget hotel that easily connected to the rest of the city and beyond. Click here to make a booking.
Midrange: Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral
The rooms at Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral are comfortable, clean, and modern, making it great value for money. The hotel boasts a large rooftop swimming pool, gym, bar, and free Wi-Fi. The room comes with free drinks in the fridge, so if you’re looking for a little bit of special treatment, this is the place to be.
The staff are positive and friendly, and will go out of their way to help guests with anything they might need. The spacious rooms have a vibrant, colourful décor, and the bed is comfortable. Click here to check out prices or make a booking.
Luxury: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection
If you’re looking for a luxurious, comfortable say while in Kuala Lumpur, then look no further. The beds are incredibly comfortable at The Majestic Hotel, and rooms are magnificent and spacious with modern décor. They have a free shuttle bus to KL Sentral, making this hotel easily accessible to other parts of the city.
The staff are professional, thoughtful, and friendly, eager to help their guests with information about the city. The food is top quality and room service is efficient. This is one of the very best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur in luxury. To make a booking at this hotel, click here.
KLCC
KLCC is the heart of Kuala Lumpur. This is one of the best areas to stay in Kualal Lumpur if it’s your first time in the city and are unsure of what to see and do. Not only is it home to a ton of impressive landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and Aquaria KLCC, but it also boasts plenty of entertainment, dining, and shopping options, as well as culture activities for tourists.
If you want a more touristy side of Kuala Lumpur with tons of sightseeing options, then KLCC is the best area to stay. There are a few train stations and many buses that run through the area, so getting around is simple, cheap, and easy.
Best Places to Stay in KLCC
Backpacker: 2Hampshire Hostel
This hostel has a relaxed, peaceful environment. It’s in a great location, only 5 minutes from the Petronas Towers, but far enough away that you’re able to escape the city traffic.
The hostel is known for its impressive, nearly aerial view of the city skyline because of its location on the 13th floor of a high rise. You’ll have access to the kitchen, and the common areas are comfortable and a great place to socialize with views of the city. Staff are incredibly accommodating and friendly, and make guests feel right at home. Click here to check out prices.
Budget: Impiana KLCC Hotel
Immediately upon entering Impiana KLCC Hotel, you’ll be greeted by a warm and friendly receptionist. They have both European and Asian choices for breakfast, which is included in the price and known for being filling and delicious.
The modern rooms are clean, stylish, comfortable, and spacious. There’s a swimming pool and fitness centre in the hotel, which is centrally located and in walking distance from the Petronas Twin Towers. There are also a ton of shopping and food options nearby. Click here to check out prices or make a booking.
Midrange: Summer Suites Bernice
Summer Suites Bernice boasts a modern gym and swimming pool, perfect for guests who wish to exercise or relax for the afternoon. It is in walking distance to the Petronas Twin Towers as well as a free city bus that takes you around the city.
Housekeeping is efficient and timely, and some rooms have a sitting area, furnished kitchen, and balcony. All of the rooms have air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, and are known for being spacious and comfortable. Various locations in the hotel offer spectacular views of the city and Twin Towers. Click here to make a booking.
Luxury: GTower Hotel
The staff at this hotel will help their guests with anything from events, to parties, to plans around the city. It’s centrally located and close to a ton of sites like the Petronas Twin Towers, Ampang Park Station, and KLCC Park. Rooms include air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
The boutique style rooms are modern and comfortable, providing guests with all of the amenities you would find in your own bedroom. Each room is also equipped with a marble bathroom and flat screen TVs. To book or get prices, click here.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a vibrant, colourful, and cultural area of Kuala Lumpur. This is the area to get your souvenir shopping done; you’ll find street vendors and shops selling trinkets, shoes, herbs and spices, jewellery and everything in between until the early hours of the morning.
Petaling Street, the main part of Chinatown, turns into a bustling street market at night. If you’re looking to test your haggling skills, then Chinatown is calling your name.
Best Places to Stay in Chinatown
Backpacker: Travel Hub Guesthouse
This is a very social hostel, so it’s a great place to stay if you’re a solo traveller looking to meet other backpackers. There’s a bar on the rooftop and they serve a great breakfast in the morning.
It’s right near the Pasar Seni bus station and is walking distance to the vibrant and bustling Chinatown, far enough away that you can enjoy some peace and quiet, but close enough that you feel like you’re a part of the action. The staff and bartenders at the hostel are friendly and known for getting involved with guests. Click here to make a booking.
Budget: Hotel 1000 Miles
Not only is this hotel close to Chinatown, but it’s also close to a ton of delicious Indian restaurants. If you’re on a budget, this is the place to be. Every room includes a private bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The rooms are clean and well equipped, comfortable, and modern. The staff is friendly and helps with anything from booking taxi’s to tips on exploring the city. Click here to make a booking.
Midrange: Big M Hotel
Only a few minutes walking distance from Petaling Street, Big M Hotel is in the midst of the action. Each room offers air conditioning and a flat screen TV, as well as luxurious bathrooms with a bathtub or shower. The onsite restaurant serves delicious meals like crab curry and roti, and if that’s not your thing, it’s close to many local restaurants. The rooftop has a cosy dining area, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. Click here to make a booking or check out prices.
Luxury: Cosmo Hotel
Cosmo Hotel is located in proximity to both Petaling Street and Little India, allowing guests to have wonderful food options during their stay in Kuala Lumpur. They have a big buffet breakfast, and their rooms are nicely decorated with modern amenities like a hair dryer, iron, air conditioning, and coffee maker. The showers are excellent and the staff are known for being very accommodating towards their guests. Click here to make a booking.
Bangsar
You’ll find both the contemporary and cultural side to Kuala Lumpur in Bangsar. It’s also one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur for vibrant nightlife – If you want to spend your evenings dancing at clubs, tasting the local brew at pubs, or socializing at bars, then Bangsar is your area.
This hip and trendy area not only boasts a ton of chic boutique stores and popular restaurants, but also has a cultural side with churches and temples. It’s one of the best areas in Kuala Lumpur for its nightlife; you’ll find the streets busy with partygoers and street food vendors into the late evening and early morning. A lot of expats tend to flock to this area, making it the perfect mix of local and international.
Best Places to Stay in Bangsar
Backpacker: Signature Hotel @ Bangsar South
If you’re on a budget but want to stay in a great location, then Signature Hotel @ Bangsar South is the place to be. It’s located close to an LRT Station and in the great neighbourhood area of Bangsar.
It’s a great value for money if you are on a tight budget, offering a bit of comfort and luxury for an incredibly affordable price. Rooms have a flat screen TV and air conditioning. Some rooms are equipped with amenities like a hair dryer, toiletries, and towels. To make a booking or check out prices, click here.
Budget: Little Bear Homestay @ KL Gateway
This hotel is in proximity to many restaurants and grocery stores, which is a great option if you are on a tight budget. It’s great value for money, and the rooms are simply decorated but very cosy and pleasant.
The bed is comfortable, and guests immediately feel like home when they arrive at Little Bear Homestay. There’s also an outdoor pool and a children’s playground making this one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur if you are travelling with young children. Click here to check out prices at this homestay.
Midrange: Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar
The modern and spacious rooms at Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar will pull you right in with their comfortable beds, modern décor, and soft lighting. The attentive and courteous staff will make sure your stay exceeds your expectations, they even ask guests for any positive or constructive feedback they might have. The hotel even offers a free shuttle service to Mid Valley Mall. The breakfast has a large selection and is a great way to start the day. Click here to book and check out prices.
Luxury: VE Hotel and Residence
This hotel boasts both a sauna and fitness centre. The rooms have air conditioning, a flat screen TV, free toiletries and even bathrobes. It’s 15 minutes from the LRT Station and close to a shopping mall with many food options.
The rooms are modern and clean, with a ton of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. It’s in proximity to KL Central Park, The Gardens Mall, and Little India, making it a great choice if you want to stay centrally located in the area. Click here to check out prices, reviews and to book.
Petaling Jaya
Known as the twin sister of Kuala Lumpur, this residential area is easily accessible from the city. It’s the residential and business district, and boasts restaurants serving cheap and delicious food and plenty of shopping options.
This area began as a town in the fifties, and has slowly grown into what it is today, making it one of the more unique areas to spend some time in. If you’re looking for a more off beat area of Kuala Lumpur to stay in, then Petaling Jaya may be the best option for you.
Best Places to Stay in Petaling Jaya
Backpacker: One Avenue Hotel
This hotel has a homey ambiance, polite staff, and an overall clean environment. They give their guests free flow drinks and water, and treat their guests like family. It’s a nice place to come whether you’re a solo traveller or a couple; the ambiance is laid back and calm. This relaxed, quiet atmosphere allows guests to comfortably unwind after spending the day exploring the city. To make a booking, click here.
Budget: Hilton Petaling Jaya
The rooms are exceptionally comfortable, clean, and modern, with big beds, amenities like a tea and coffee maker, mini bar, TV, bathrobe, and safe. Some of their rooms include breakfast and offer scenic views of Petaling Jaya, as well as a flat screen TV and air conditioning. The house keeping is efficient, and the staff members are overall friendly, hospitable, and helpful. Click here to make a booking.
Midrange: Eastin Hotel Kuala Lumpur
With 5 dining options and an outdoor pool, Easton Hotel Kuala Lumpur may be the perfect choice for those of you who have some leeway with spending. There’s also a spa and a fitness centre on site, free Wi-Fi, and spacious rooms with large windows.
They offer free toiletries, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV in their rooms. Some rooms have beautiful views of the city, allowing guests to admire the city skyline from afar. It’s in a great location, less than 100-meter walk to the MRT. Click here to make a booking.
Luxury: The Villas at Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa
If you’re looking for a luxury stay with a ton of privacy, then The Villas at Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa should be your first choice. The villas boast a private pool, balcony, air conditioning, and bathtub. The spa is excellent and the perfect place to come to unwind and relax. Bathrooms are large and spacious, and the beds are comfortable. The villas are modern and give off a homey ambiance. Click here to check out these beautiful villas.
Read More:
5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Kuala Lumpur
So there you have my recommendations on the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur. Have you stayed in an awesome hotel in KL? Leave a comment and your travel tips can help out other travellers! 🙂
