Best Area to Stay in KL, Malaysia: Hotels Vs Serviced Accommodations
Kuala Lumpur offers a variety of neighbourhoods, each with its charm and appeal, catering to every type of traveller.
Whether you're drawn to vibrant nightlife, iconic landmarks, or quiet residential vibes, there’s a perfect spot for you.
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During our family trip, we stayed in the Bukit Bintang area, a lively, central area that offered convenience and plenty of activities for the whole family.
Here's an overview of some of the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur and why they might suit your travel style.
Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur: Best Neighbourhoods for Families
Bukit Bintang
This vibrant, centrally located neighbourhood is a hub of activities, offering something for everyone.
Bukit Bintang is full of energy— from upscale shopping malls and bustling night markets to trendy cafes and family-friendly restaurants.
This central area is also a convenient base for exploring major tourist attractions like the Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and Berjaya Times Square.
Best For: Families, shopaholics, food enthusiasts
Nearby Attractions: Jalan Alor, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
Why We Stayed in Bukit Bintang
For our Kuala Lumpur trip, we chose to stay in a serviced apartment in Bukit Bintang because it was the ideal choice for our family.
The vibrant energy of the neighbourhood meant there was always something to do, whether it was dining at Jalan Alor’s bustling food street, shopping at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, or exploring the nearby Kuala Lumpur Tower.
We also appreciated Bukit Bintang's central location, which made it easy to get around Kuala Lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)
KLCC is the heart of modern Kuala Lumpur, home to iconic landmarks like the Petronas Towers and KLCC Park.
Luxurious hotels dominate the area, offering connecting rooms, kids’ pools, and exceptional dining options.
If convenience and indulgence are your priorities, this neighbourhood is the place to be.
Best For: Families who want to stay within a short walking distance from major attractions, luxury seekers
Nearby Attractions: Suria KLCC, Aquaria KLCC, Lake Symphony
Chinatown
Chinatown is a vibrant cultural hub, offering a rich tapestry of experiences— from bustling street markets to historic temples and diverse culinary delights.
The nearby Central Market, a heritage site housing over 350 shops, showcases Malaysian handicrafts, art, and traditional goods, while Petaling Street Market in the heart of Chinatown is perfect for bargain hunting and sampling local street food.
This neighbourhood is ideal for families with children due to its pedestrian-friendly streets, affordable and spacious accommodations, proximity to major attractions like the Muzium Negara and Independence Square, and the opportunity to immerse in Malaysian culture through interactive experiences such as batik painting and henna art.
Best For: Families seeking local vibe, budget-conscious travellers
Nearby Attractions: Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Illusion 3D Art Museum
Mont Kiara
A quiet residential neighbourhood, Mont Kiara is popular among ex-pats and families looking for a more relaxed environment.
Serviced apartments in this area are spacious and ideal for longer stays, with plenty of cafes, playgrounds, and international restaurants around.
Best For: Families seeking a suburban feel, extended stays
Nearby Attractions: Publika Shopping Gallery, Desa ParkCity
Why We Chose a Serviced Accommodation
Staying in a serviced apartment at Tribeca Serviced Hotel by Millennium gave us the flexibility we needed, especially with young kids.
Tribeca Serviced Hotel offers spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, washers, and dryers, perfect for families with kids seeking comfort and convenience in Kuala Lumpur.
The availability of these facilities allowed us to stick to our routine while having all the excitement of Kuala Lumpur at our doorstep.
Since the hotel is located in the heart of Bukit Bintang, we enjoyed quick access to popular attractions, shopping malls, and public transportation.
We were able to enjoy the amenities of a luxury hotel, such as a swimming pool, while having a home-away-from-home experience throughout our stay.
Staying in a Hotel in Kuala Lumpur
For those who prefer the luxury and convenience of hotels, here’s a curated list of top options in each neighbourhood:
Bukit Bintang Hotels
The Westin Kuala Lumpur: Upscale and family-friendly.
Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur: Located above Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur: Luxurious with excellent service.
Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur: Spacious rooms and central location.
Verdant Hill Hotel Kuala Lumpur: Budget-friendly with an outdoor swimming pool.
KLCC Hotels
Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur: Stunning skyline views and luxury amenities.
Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur: Iconic rooftop SkyBar.
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur: Family suites with breathtaking views.
Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur: High-end service and facilities.
Impiana KLCC Hotel: Affordable luxury near the Petronas Towers.
Chinatown Hotels
Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown: Modern and comfortable.
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur: Heritage charm with modern amenities.
Lantern Hotel: Boutique and family-friendly.
Travelodge City Centre: Affordable and central location.
Kai Hotel: Budget-friendly with great access to attractions.
Mont Kiara Hotels
Hyatt House Kuala Lumpur, Mont Kiara: Family suites with full kitchens.
The Signature Hotel & Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur: Affordable and spacious.
Arcoris Mont Kiara: Ideal for long-term stays.
Wedgewood Residences: Perfect for families seeking a homely vibe.
Mont Kiara Palma Suites: Great for extended visits.
Things to Consider When Choosing Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur
Safety
Safety is a key consideration in any city, and Kuala Lumpur is no exception.
Areas like KLCC and Bukit Bintang are generally safe and well-patrolled, while some areas like Pudu may be less suitable for families due to their nightlife scenes.
Transport Links
Easy access to public transport is crucial in Kuala Lumpur, and areas like Bukit Bintang offer excellent connectivity.
Staying in well-connected neighbourhoods like Bukit Bintang allows you to be close to major MRT stations, such as Bukit Bintang MRT, which provides convenient travel throughout the city, while also being within walking distance to popular attractions like Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Jalan Alor.
Travel Style
Whether you prefer short-term luxury in a hotel or the flexibility of serviced apartments for longer stays, Kuala Lumpur has options to match your travel style.
For a more immersive experience, homestays in local neighbourhoods like Brickfields can provide a unique perspective on city life.
Family Needs
When travelling to Kuala Lumpur with kids, look for accommodations with amenities like connecting rooms, kitchen facilities, and proximity to attractions like KLCC Park or Aquaria KLCC.
Serviced apartments in areas like Mont Kiara are particularly suitable for families due to their spacious layouts and home-like amenities.
Budget
Kuala Lumpur offers a wide range of accommodations to fit any budget— from budget-friendly hostels in Chinatown to luxury hotels in KLCC.
Deciding on a budget helps narrow down options, whether you're looking for affordable dorms or high-end suites with city views.
Wrapping Up
Kuala Lumpur offers accommodation options for every traveller, whether seeking luxury, immersive local experience, or practicality.
A serviced apartment in Bukit Bintang provided us with perfect flexibility and convenience.
No matter where you stay, Kuala Lumpur’s diverse neighbourhoods ensure an unforgettable experience tailored to your travel needs.
Which neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur appeals to you the most as a tourist? Feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments!
If you've already been to Kuala Lumpur, which area would you recommend for families with kids and what other insider tips on accommodations would you give our fellow travellers? Don't hesitate to share your thoughts below!
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