Best City Hotels in Malaysia

Malaysia's cities offer diverse accommodation options, from heritage boutiques in colonial buildings to gleaming international towers. This guide covers the best urban hotel options with practical recommendations based on location, value, and traveler type.

Kuala Lumpur

The capital city has Malaysia's most competitive hotel market, with options for every budget and preference.

KLCC Area

The prestigious district around the Petronas Twin Towers, home to many international luxury brands.

Top Luxury Options:

• Mandarin Oriental KL: Connected to KLCC mall, exceptional service, iconic views. The benchmark for KL luxury.
• Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur: Modern elegance with excellent dining options and rooftop pool.
• Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur: Newer addition offering contemporary luxury with spacious rooms.
• W Kuala Lumpur: Design-forward property perfect for style-conscious travelers.

Mid-Range KLCC:

• Traders Hotel: Connected to convention center, excellent value for the location.
• Impiana KLCC: Solid four-star option with competitive rates.
• EQ Kuala Lumpur: Formerly Equatorial, recently renovated to excellent standards.

Bukit Bintang

The entertainment and shopping district, offering better street-level energy and diverse pricing.

Luxury Picks:

• The Ritz-Carlton KL: Classic luxury with excellent spa and dining.
• JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur: Prime location connected to Starhill Gallery.
• The Westin Kuala Lumpur: Reliable comfort with signature beds and good facilities.

Mid-Range and Budget:

• Dorsett Kuala Lumpur: Excellent value, modern rooms, near Pavilion Mall.
• Parkroyal Collection: Sustainable hotel with garden-in-the-sky concept.
• The Face Suites: Serviced apartments with hotel amenities, great for longer stays.
• Travelodge Bukit Bintang: Budget-friendly international brand with consistent standards.

Other KL Areas

Chinatown (Petaling Street):

• Best for budget travelers and culture seekers
• Heritage hotels in restored shophouses
• Price range: RM 50-200 per night
• Picks: Mingle Hostel, BackHome Hostel, Hotel & Cafe & Boutique

Bangsar:

• Upscale residential area with good restaurants and bars
• Less touristy, more local feel
• Limited but quality hotel options
• Pick: Alila Bangsar (boutique luxury)

Penang (George Town)

The UNESCO-listed city offers Malaysia's best heritage hotel scene, with many converted shophouses and colonial buildings.

Heritage Zone

The historic core offers the most character-filled accommodations in Malaysia.

Premium Heritage:

• Eastern and Oriental Hotel: The grand dame of Penang, beautifully restored colonial luxury.
• Seven Terraces: Stunning Anglo-Chinese architecture, intimate and exclusive.
• Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion: Iconic boutique in a museum-worthy building.

Mid-Range Heritage:

• Campbell House: Beautifully designed shophouse hotel with modern comforts.
• 23 Love Lane: Hip boutique in excellent location, good value.
• Muntri Grove: Serviced heritage residences for longer stays.

Budget Heritage:

• Ryokan Muntri: Japanese-inspired heritage hostel, unique experience.
• Carnarvon House: Basic but well-located guesthouse.
• Various hostels: Love Lane and Armenian Street areas have numerous budget options.

Modern George Town

For those preferring contemporary amenities over heritage character:

• G Hotel Gurney: Modern luxury in the Gurney Drive area.
• Jen Penang Georgetown: Contemporary design with excellent facilities.
• Cititel Express: Reliable mid-range option in central location.

Melaka (Malacca)

Another UNESCO site with excellent heritage accommodation options.

Jonker Street Area

The heart of historic Melaka, best for experiencing the city's character.

Top Picks:

• The Majestic Malacca: Luxury heritage hotel with colonial elegance and modern comforts.
• Hotel & Cafe & Boutique Casa del Rio: Riverside boutique with excellent location and atmosphere.
• Courtyard @ Heeren: Charming boutique in restored shophouse.
• Nomaps: Budget-friendly hostel with good social atmosphere.

Kota Kinabalu

Sabah's capital offers a range of city hotels serving as bases for Borneo adventures.

City Center

• The Pacific Sutera Hotel: Part of Sutera Harbour Resort, comprehensive facilities.
• Hyatt Regency Kinabalu: Central location with reliable international standards.
• Hilton Kota Kinabalu: Good location near waterfront, modern facilities.

Budget Options

• Gaya Street area: Numerous budget hotels and hostels
• Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu: Good value for the quality offered
• Akinabalu Youth Hostel: Popular backpacker choice

Kuching

Sarawak's charming capital offers a more relaxed urban experience.

Waterfront Area:

• Hilton Kuching: Best location overlooking the river and historic district.
• Grand Margherita Hotel: Established hotel with good facilities and central location.
• Ranee Boutique Suites: Heritage building converted to stylish suites.

Budget-Friendly:

• Batik Boutique Hotel: Charming option with local design touches.
• Singgahsana Lodge: Well-regarded backpacker option.

City Hotel Booking Tips

For Business Travelers

• Prioritize location near your meetings or convention centers
• Verify WiFi quality and workspace availability
• Check for executive lounges with complimentary refreshments
• Consider hotels with airport shuttle services

For Leisure Travelers

• Balance location with value; central isn't always necessary
• Check public transport links from hotel
• Read recent reviews for current conditions
• Consider heritage properties for unique experiences

For Families

• Look for properties with pools and kids' facilities
• Check if hotels charge extra for children
• Consider serviced apartments for longer stays
• Verify crib and extra bed availability

Last updated: January 24, 2026