If you're planning a visit to the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, and are in search of the perfect accommodation, you're in the right place! The city's ever-growing popularity has led to a surge in accommodations, making the choice of where to stay a delightful yet daunting task. Whether you're seeking luxury, mid-range comfort, or budget-friendly options, we've got you covered with the latest updates to make your trip memorable.
Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur - An Overview
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Your First Time
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For Sightseeing
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On a Budget
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For Shopping
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With Family
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for your first time - KLCC
For first-time visitors to Kuala Lumpur, KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Center) stands out as an exceptional choice. It's not just a district; it's the heart of the city, known for several compelling reasons. The iconic Petronas Towers, an architectural marvel, grace this neighborhood, offering stunning views. KLCC Park, at their base, provides an escape with jogging paths, a public pool, and relaxation spots. The area also boasts attractions like the Petronas Art Gallery, KL Forest Eco Park, and Aquaria KLCC. Shopping enthusiasts will revel in the numerous malls, and foodies will relish the diverse culinary options. With excellent public transportation, including the LRT, exploring the city becomes effortless. KLCC is the perfect introduction to Kuala Lumpur.
1 Bukit Bintang (Editor's pick)
Perfect for sightseeing, good nightlife.
3 km
Distance from Centre
Bukit Bintang, a dynamic district in Kuala Lumpur, beckons travelers with its lively streets, nightlife, and spectacular street food. This neighborhood, often dubbed the city's entertainment hub, is a top choice for those seeking action-packed days and electrifying nights. Explore the heart of Kuala Lumpur in Bukit Bintang.
- Explore diverse street food stalls at Jalan Alor Food Street, from succulent seafood to mouthwatering satay, offering a delectable taste of Malaysian cuisine.
- Stroll through colorful Jalan Alor Street adorned with striking murals, showcasing local and international street art talent in Bukit Bintang.
- Experience thrilling rides and family-friendly fun at Berjaya Times Square Theme Park.
- Immerse yourself in contemporary art, with exhibitions and thought-provoking installations at Ur-Mu Art Museum.
- Enjoy upscale shopping with high-end boutiques and luxury brands at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, an architecturally stunning mall.
- The monorail line (MRL) has a stop called Bukit Bintang that will drop you off in this neighbourhood. You can also get off at Imbi or Merdeka to access Bukit Bintang.
- Bus number 400, 420, 421, 450, 580 and 590 will drop you at KL119 Hospital Tung Shin, a stop in the center of Bukit Bintang.
- The AGL and SPL rail line drops you at Plaza Rakyat which is about a 100 meters from Bukit Bintang.
Best Luxury Hotel - Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur
Explore more options >>Best Economy Stay - citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang
Explore more options >>Staying in Bukit Bintang provides convenient proximity to some of Kuala Lumpur's most renowned attractions:
🇲🇾 Local's Tip 🇲🇾
Visit the Jalan Alor street filled with street art marked as "God Bless" on google maps. Post that, try some of the many things Jalan Alor Food Street has to offer.
Tickets
2 KLCC
Perfect for First-Timers
4.9 km
Distance from Centre
Kuala Lumpur City Centre, or KLCC, stands as the modern and bustling heart of Malaysia's capital. Home to iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC Mall, this district offers a blend of shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences, making it a central hub for visitors and locals alike.
- Explore Petrosains - The Discovery Center, for engaging interactive exhibits, educational fun, and a journey through science and technology.
- Visit KLCC Park, adjacent to the Petronas Twin Towers. It offers a serene urban oasis with lush greenery, dancing fountains, and jogging paths.
- For the marine life enthusiasts, exploring Aquaria KLCC is a must! It's an aquatic wonderland beneath the city, invites visitors to explore diverse marine life through underwater tunnels and exhibits.
- If you're traveling with kids, visit SuperPark Malaysia, an all-weather indoor activity park in KKLCC. The park offers a thrilling variety of sports and recreational experiences for all ages.
- The KJL (Kelana Jaya line) has a stop called KLCC, that will drop you exactly opposite the Petronas Twin Towers.
- You can also take the MRT Putrajaya line that drops you off at Persiaran KLCC stop, located 300 meters from the KLCC park entrance.
- Bus no. 402 will drop you at multiple points within KLCC
Best Luxury Hotel - Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur
Explore more options >>Best Economy Stay - Vortex KLCC Apartments
Explore more options >>KLCC's location allows you to be close to some of the most popular attractions in Kuala Lumpur:
- Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck - 10 m from center
- Petrosains, The Discovery Centre - 10 m from center
- KLCC Park - 150 m from center
- Aquaria KLCC- 650 m from center
- Ilham Gallery - 850 m from center
🇲🇾 Local's Tip 🇲🇾
When visiting KLCC, remember that the Petronas Twin Towers' observation deck tickets often sell out quickly, so book in advance to secure your spot and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Tickets
3 Chinatown
The budget-friendly neighbourhood
2.3 km
Distance from Centre
Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, a historic neighborhood, offers a fusion of cultures. It's a place where colorful traditions, delectable street food, and vibrant markets converge. Chinatown is not only culturally rich but also budget-friendly. It's an ideal area for cost-conscious travelers seeking affordable accommodations, as numerous budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels line its streets.
- Visit Guan Di Temple in Chinatown. It offers a serene escape with its traditional architecture and a sense of cultural immersion.
- Explore Petaling Street Market in Chinatown. It has countless stalls, perfect for indulging in local culture and shopping for unique finds."
- Don't miss Sin Sze Si Ya Temple. This historic temple boasts intricate architecture and provides insight into the area's rich heritage.
- The Masjid Jamek Lookout Point at River of Life offers a scenic perspective of the city's historic convergence of rivers and a water-themed light show.
- The Pasar Seni stop lies inside Chinatown. Two major lines pass through this station, KLJ and MRT Kaljang
- Bus number 02, 782, and 821 will drop you off right in the center of Chinatown.
Best Luxury Hotel - Ceylonz Suites by MyKey Global
Explore more options >>Best Economy Stay - Santa Grand Classic
Explore more options >>🇲🇾 Local's Tip 🇲🇾
When visiting Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, haggling is common at street markets. Politely negotiate prices to get the best deals while respecting local customs.
4 Bangsar
Perfect for First Time Visitors to Rome
500 m
Distance from the Centre
Bangsar, a trendy and cosmopolitan neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur, exudes a vibrant atmosphere. It's celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, rooftop bars, and unique boutiques. This area offers a blend of shopping, dining, and nightlife experiences, making it a sought-after destination for locals and tourists alike.
- Visit the National Museum of Malaysia, that offers a journey through the country's history, culture, and heritage, with informative exhibits and intriguing artifacts.
- Walk around the KL Bird Park. The park is a delightful escape in Kuala Lumpur, home to a vast array of colorful avian species. It offers an educational experience for all ages.
- Visit Little India Brickfields, offering colorful streets, authentic Indian cuisine, and a variety of shops selling traditional clothing, spices, and souvenirs.
- Head to Lake Gardens, a Botanical Gardenwith serene nature walks, a picturesque lakes, and a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
- You can catch a train to Bangsar station, and get dropped off right in the district.
- The MRT line also passes by Bangsar. Get off at Pusat Bandar Damansara, located a few 100 meters from central Bagsar.
Best Luxury Hotel - The Gardens
Explore more options >>Best Economy Stay - Domitys Bangsar
Explore more options >>🇲🇾 Local's Tip 🇲🇾
While visiting Bangsar, be sure to explore the charming backstreets, where you'll discover hidden gems like cozy cafes, boutique shops, and street art, offering a unique local experience.
5 Chow Kit
Best Neighborhood for a local experience
4.2 km
Distance from Centre
Chow Kit, a district in Kuala Lumpur, is known for its markets, authentic street food stalls, and a lively atmosphere. This area has charming small-town vibe. Renowned for its local vendors and daily markets, it's one of Kuala Lumpur's lesser-explored corners, promising a unique off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- Exploring Chow Kit Road Market is a sensory journey. This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street life, providing an authentic cultural experience.
- Visit the Biomedical Museum in Chow Kit for fascinating exploration of medical history and advances. Visitors can discover the evolution of healthcare in a captivating and informative setting.
- You can reach Chow Kit by train, by getting off at Putra station.
- The AGL and SPL line also pass through Chow Kit. The Bandaraya station is where you need to get off.
- The closest KGL line is at Dang Wangi station.
Best Luxury Hotel - Hotel Stripes
Explore more options >>Best Economy Stay - Tamu Hotel & Suites
Explore more options >>🇲🇾 Local's Tip 🇲🇾
When exploring Chow Kit, embrace the authentic street food culture. Engage with the friendly vendors and savor the local dishes, as they often have the best culinary insights.
FAQs: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur
Bukit Bintang is the best area to stay in Kuala Lumpur. Known as the city's entertainment and shopping hub, it's perfect for those who want a lively atmosphere, nightlife, and easy access to malls and restaurants.
Some of the cheapest hostel accommodations in Kuala Lumpur include BackHome Hostel, Reggae Mansion, and PODs The Backpackers Home & Cafe, offering budget-friendly options for travelers.
Chow Kit is the best area in Kuala Lumpur to explore local markets. It's famous for its vibrant street markets, fresh produce, and an authentic local market experience.
Popular attractions in Kuala Lumpur include the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, Bukit Bintang shopping district, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Chinatown, Merdeka Square, and the Islamic Arts Museum.
The best way to get around Kuala Lumpur is by using the efficient public transportation system, including LRT, monorail, and buses, along with rideshare services and taxis for convenience.
KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) is often considered one of the safest areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur, known for its security, well-lit streets, and low crime rates.
