Malaysia’s capital is a vibrant, bustling city where traditional charm and modern luxuries live as one. Some of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular markets include the Taman Connaught night market, which takes place every Wednesday, and the daytime Petaling street market. Here visitors can indulge in local street food and try their hand at haggling for goods. Those seeking a more upscale shopping experience should visit the district of Butik Bintang, famous for its high-end malls, boutiques and Jalan Alor street food.
There’s a mix of interesting hotels and resorts in the city, many of which are 4 and 5-stars. Prices are favourable for the most part and you can experience a true slice of indulgence for under $100 if you know where to look. To help you find the perfect hotel for your visit to this animated capital, we’ve curated a list of the best luxury and 5-star hotels in Kuala Lumpur.
Majestic Hotel
FROM $84/ NIGHT
Made up of an old heritage site and a newer modern wing, the Majestic Hotel is a luxury getaway that marries tradition with some impressive modern amenities. Rooms in the original majestic wing play on the vintage charm of the building, with classic furnishings and dark wooden floors. Rooms and suites in the newest building – the tower wing – play on the classic art deco style of the original building but definitely have a more modern feel. The Majestic is close to Kuala Lumpur Sentral station, which has an express rail link to the international airport. Better still, the hotel is situated on the city’s historical mile, close to a number of tourist attractions.
Banyan Tree
FROM $180/ NIGHT
If you want to be where to action is, the Banyan Tree resort certainly delivers. It’s situated right in the ‘golden triangle’ – the shopping and entertainment hub of Malaysia. This means you’ll find some of the best stores and restaurants just a stone’s throw away. What makes Banyan so special, though, is that it offers guests luxury and tranquility in what is typically a lively urban area. The bedrooms are minimalist but not cold, with the warm lighting and golden fixtures adding a homely but high-end touch to every room. Even the basic studio room is surprisingly spacious, with a comfortable sofa and large bathtub situated by the window. A huge 55-inch TV, pillow menu, coffee machine and complimentary mini bar also make up part of the standard room package at this urban sanctuary.
The Ritz-Carlton
FROM $149/ NIGHT
Having been a home away from home for many of Malaysia’s and the world’s elite, the Ritz-Carlton in Kuala Lumpur is a true luxury stay. Situated close to Bukit Bingtang, guests can enjoy all the upscale entertainment and shopping the district has to offer. The hotel has award-winning food, extra-large rooms and a spa offering traditional treatments such as sensory sound baths and Peranakan. Deluxe rooms come with a King bed as standard, as well as a marble bathroom and plush robes to relax in. Upgrade to a one-bedroom suite and enjoy even more space, with a separate living area equipped with a 60-inch TV.
Alila Bangsar
FROM $68/ NIGHT
Located in the heart of the cosmopolitan Bangsar district, you’ll have the hustle and bustle of the markets, exciting nightlife and historic monuments right on your doorstep. When you’re not out exploring, you can enjoy a luxury stay that’s sleek, modern and dramatic in equal measure. The dark exterior of the Alila Bangsar is strikingly contrasted by the pristine white interiors – and the rooms are no different. Following a beautifully modern black and white décor theme, every room is perfectly designed. All rooms have modern amenities such as rainfall showers and a king size bed and some even have private balcony access. Alila is just a short walk from Kuala Lumpur Sentral too, so there’s easy access to and from the airport by train.
Villa Samadhi
FROM $181/ NIGHT
If you want to lose yourself in a tropical oasis in the middle of a bustling city, you’ll love the lush lagoon at Villa Samadhi. The intimate free-form pool weaves throughout the resort and is a truly unique feature. When you’re not relaxing in the lagoon, the thatched-roof rooms and suites offer guest plenty of modern comforts including luxury bedding, robes, iPod docks and rainfalls showers. The resort’s open air restaurant serves traditional Malay food, while drinks can be enjoyed at the Bumbung Bar. The resort also offers a ‘Travels with Samadhi’ service – a selection of curated day trips to help visitors make the most of Malaysia and Singapore during their stay.