Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur City Centre

The 23-story Hotel Istana draws a variety of travelers -- from coupon on vacation to people on business trips -- with its central location and variety of on-site amenities. Although rooms and common areas are largely dated and showing wear, most past guests find the property comfortable. Still, mismatched styles of old-fashioned patterned carpets, clashing fabrics in seat upholstery and curtains, and brass-framed chairs are unattractive and in need of refreshing. Nevertheless, the vibe is relaxing here, enhanced by a well-landscaped outdoor pool area and a Club Room-level lounge. This hotel is known for its Ramadan celebrations, including a traditional buffet feast during that time of year. Overall, the affordable rates make this a decent spot to escape the buzzing surrounding streets. 

Located on a busy road in the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur, Hotel Istana has a great location near ample sights, transportation, and restaurants. The hotel is just a five-minute walk from Raja Chulan Monorail station, as well as to the huge Pavilion shopping mall. It's roughly the same distance to the lively entertainment and shopping district of Bukit Bintang, where restaurants and bars abound. For business travelers, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center is a 12-minute walk away, while the Petronas Twin Towers are a 20-minute walk. Kuala Lumpur International Airport can be reached in about 45 minutes by car.

The 486 rooms here are divided between Deluxe and Club Rooms and suites, all of which are done in a dated and bland style consisting of maroon patterned carpet, a mishmash of scuffed wooden and stone-topped furniture, neutral linens, and one piece of brown artwork. On the plus side, rooms are spacious, starting at 409 square feet (38 square meters; meanwhile, Two-Bedroom Suites measure 1259 square feet (117 square meters). A highlight are the mostly beige bathrooms, which have bathtubs and separate shower stalls, magnifying mirrors, hose-style hairdryers, and free toiletries. Standard amenities consist of free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, tea- and coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, small tables, and work desks. Upgraded rooms add living spaces. Past guests largely find rooms quiet.

Food receives mostly high praise here, both at Urban restaurant serving modern European fare for lunch and dinner, and at the all-day Taman Sari Brasserie, which has buffet-style spreads of Malaysian and international cuisines. The Sweet Corner cafe has baked goods like pastries and cakes, while a lobby lounge and sports bar with billiards primarily sling drinks. Room service is available 24/7. Travelers in Club-level rooms get access to an exclusive lounge where free breakfast, free afternoon tea, and free evening drinks and appetizers are provided. Guests also get free use of a meeting room.

The outdoor swimming pool with separate children’s pool is a popular and attractive feature, thanks to its lovely fountain features and lining of metal loungers under umbrellas. A simple spa has a whirlpool tub, sauna, and steam rooms, plus rooms for massage and beauty treatments. A fitness center is well-stocked with cardio machines and weight-training equipment, plus a punching bag, but it's not open 24/7. There are also several meeting room options for guests traveling on business. Property-wide Wi-Fi and parking are both free.