If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur and want to stay somewhere central, character-filled, and well connected — Petaling Street and Chinatown KL are excellent choices.
Unlike Bukit Bintang’s shopping-centric vibe or KLCC’s luxury towers, Chinatown offers:
- Heritage shophouse hotels
- Boutique stays with personality
- Budget-friendly guesthouses
- Walking access to LRT & MRT
- Immediate access to food and nightlife
Whether you’re a backpacker, couple, digital nomad or short-term visitor — here’s where to stay in Petaling Street and Chinatown Kuala Lumpur.
Why Stay in Chinatown KL?
Before choosing a hotel, here’s why this district works:
✔ Walking distance to Central Market
✔ Near Pasar Seni LRT & MRT
✔ 10–15 minutes to KLCC via train
✔ Surrounded by cafés and cocktail bars
✔ Heritage architecture & cultural atmosphere
✔ More affordable than KLCC
This makes Chinatown one of the best value areas in central Kuala Lumpur.
Best Design & Lifestyle Hotels in Chinatown KL
If you want character, aesthetics, and a memorable stay — these are your best options.
Else Kuala Lumpur
One of the most beautifully restored boutique hotels in Chinatown.
Housed inside a former Lee Rubber building, Else combines:
- Minimalist heritage design
- Soft neutral interiors
- Rooftop infinity pool
- Wellness-forward atmosphere
Rooms are spacious, calm and thoughtfully curated.
Best for:
Couples, design lovers, slow travelers.
Moxy Kuala Lumpur Chinatown
A vibrant, design-forward hotel under Marriott’s Moxy brand.
Highlights:
- Bold, youthful interiors
- Neon-lit lobby
- Rooftop bar & social spaces
- Compact but smart room design
- Strong millennial / Gen-Z appeal
Located within walking distance to Petaling Street, it blends Chinatown heritage with global lifestyle branding.
Best for:
Young couples, digital nomads, short city breaks.
Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur Chinatown
One of the most popular upscale stays in the district.
Key highlights:
- Rooftop infinity pool with KL skyline view
- Comfortable modern rooms
- International brand reliability
- Walking distance to Petaling Street
Best for:
Business travellers and visitors wanting comfort + convenience.
Tian Jing Hotel
A heritage shophouse boutique stay.
Features:
- Inner courtyard
- Vintage tiles
- Warm wood textures
- Intimate atmosphere
Best for:
Travelers wanting authentic Chinatown charm rather than corporate luxury.
Mid-Range Hotels in Petaling Street
These offer strong comfort without premium pricing.
The 5 Elements Hotel
Located directly on Petaling Street.
Pros:
- Extremely central
- Clean, modern rooms
- Good value pricing
- Easy access to night market
Best for:
Visitors prioritising location over amenities.
AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Near Central Market.
Offers:
- Larger rooms
- Rooftop restaurant
- More traditional hotel layout
Good for:
Families or longer stays.
Pacific Express Hotel Central Market
A strong value-for-money option.
Highlights:
- Rooftop pool
- Clean rooms
- Walking distance to Petaling Street
Often priced lower than Four Points but still offers rooftop access — making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
Budget Hotels & Hostels in Chinatown KL
If you’re backpacking or staying short-term, Chinatown is ideal.
You’ll find:
- Capsule hotels
- Budget guesthouses
- Dormitory-style hostels
- Affordable private rooms
Many are within walking distance of Pasar Seni station.
Prices are generally lower than Bukit Bintang and KLCC.
Is Chinatown a Good Area for First-Time Visitors?
Yes — especially if:
- You prefer culture over shopping malls
- You enjoy walking and exploring
- You want affordable yet central accommodation
- You like easy access to LRT and MRT
However, if you prefer:
- Luxury skyscraper views
- Direct mall access
- High-end nightlife
KLCC or Bukit Bintang may suit you better.
Safety & Practical Considerations
Chinatown is generally safe for tourists.
However:
- It can be crowded at night.
- Pickpocketing can occur in busy areas.
- Some streets quiet down late at night.
Choose hotels on main roads if you prefer more activity and lighting.
Where Should You Stay?
If you want:
✔ Heritage character
✔ Walkable food scene
✔ Boutique hotel experience
✔ Strong public transport access
✔ Affordable central location
Then Petaling Street & Chinatown KL are excellent choices.
This district offers one of the most layered and interesting accommodation experiences in Kuala Lumpur.
