A vibrant tropical city offering a fascinating fusion of old and new, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital, commercial hub and hottest destination. Punctuated by some of the world’s tallest buildings, KL’s skyline glitters with skyscrapers housing designer malls, international offices, sophisticated bars and rave-reviewed eateries. Tucked amidst them, too, are the city’s chic hotels, simpler guesthouses and restful urban sanctuaries. Chosen for their location, amenities and design, our pick of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur promises a superb base for exploring this terrific — and often underrated — city.

Founded by Chinese and Malay tin prospectors, KL has burgeoned into a bustling Asian trading centre. The Golden Triangle, located downtown, is the hub of the commercial action. Visit the 88th-floor observatory at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, shop-til-you-drop at KLCC — one of the city’s 60+ malls — or take a more relaxing stroll in KLCC’s 50-acre city park. The trendy neighbourhoods of Bangsar and Brickfields, KL’s ‘Little India’, are brilliant for shopping, food tours and cultural explorations. Chow Kit Market, the largest wet market in the city, is well worth visiting, as are buzzing Chinatown and the lively food stalls of Jalan Alor Street. Museum-goers should head to the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, whilst families will appreciate Auqaria and the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.

This is a city that parties long after dark, and you can expect delectable Asian and international cuisine, fantastic speakeasies modelled on dimly-lit opium dens, and live music events galore. Return to one of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur for soothing spa treatments and big breakfasts on the morning after!

The Best Places to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

For Couples

• Villa Samadhi offers a tranquil, romantic experience, with 21 rooms and suites set around a lagoon-like swimming pool. Expect minimalist interiors with bamboo touches, and private terraces with plunge pools in the larger suites. Craft cocktails at the bar — which seats just six — are terrific, as is the restaurant. An adults only spot for couples looking to unwind.
• Alila Bangsar has chic, pared-back interiors with striking views over the trendy neighbourhoods of Bangsar & Brickfields. Think crisp white linens, teak details & a spectacular rooftop pool. The two restaurants are excellent. A restful urban space for well-heeled couples.
• Else Kuala Lumpur is a trendy new hotel set atop a restored Chinatown landmark. Sleek, dusky rose interiors feature lots of light wood and woven cane. Unwind by the rooftop infinity pool, or feast at Raw Kitchen Hall and Yellow Fin Horse, the hotel's two gourmet restaurants. For design-minded couples eager to stay a stone's throw from the hip bars and hawker stands of Chinatown.

For Families

• Anggun has just 18 rooms and suites, some of which have courtyard-facing balconies or additional space for little ones. The Bukit Bintang location is great for exploring, and the friendly team make this a fun, relaxed family choice. Charming and characterful.

For Groups

• The Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel is a bold, retro-inspired party hotspot, with a rooftop pool and bar offering live DJ nights, two lively eateries and swish modern rooms — some of which have space for groups. Communal work spaces and event rooms also make this a great sociable business trip choice.

For Luxury

• Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur promises opulent interiors, spectacular city views and exceptional service. Kick back in the infinity pool, savour Cantonese, Malaysian and international cuisine, try rejuvenating treatments at the spa, or relax in indulgent suites. Beautiful.
• The Ritz Carlton boasts luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a plethora world-class facilities. Families will adore the Kids Club, while grown-ups can enjoy the spa, book striking spaces for meetings or celebrations and dine on delectable dishes in mutiple restaurants and bars. A sumptuous stay.
• The Ruma Hotel & Residences is a beautiful city sanctuary, with sophisticated rooms & suites featuring natural wood, rattan & brass accents. Mod-Malaysian fare at ATAS, infinity pool-side cocktails and a rejuvenating spa are highlights. Gorgeous.
• The Four Seasons is a fabulous hotel with expansive city views — including of the adjacent Petronas Twin Towers — from modern rooms and suites, vast events spaces and great eateries. There's a large rooftop pool with a cool cocktail bar, and a superb spa.

For Great Value

• The Chow Kit promises a boutique stay in Chow Kit, the city's former red-light district. Rooms and suites have rattan, wood, brass and velvet pieces crafted by artisan partners. Top-notch cocktails and guided neighbourhood tours add to the appeal. A great-value gem for couples, friends or families.
• The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur is an iconic 1930s colonial mansion. Now a 300-room hotel with an Art Deco spa, swimming pool and six bars and restaurants, it offers a brilliant combination of great value and timeless style. For hertiage aficionados eager to experience old-school KL.
• Hotel Maya offers a smart city stay, with a spa, hydrotherapy pool and gym. Modern and pared-back, this is a great choice for an affordable business trip. Private dining comes highly recommended.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and travel into the city by taxi, train or shuttle bus. The city is easily navigated by private driver or public transport — including Uber-equivalent, Grab — if you're visiting for a few days.
• To explore destinations beyond the city, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Tropical and humid, Kuala Lumpur is a year-round destination. Temperatures hover around 28-33°C for much of the year, with the heaviest rainfall expected in April - May and October - November. Showers are frequent. Expect the city to be particularly busy during festival periods, including Chinese New Year.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Penang.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Malaysia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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