Even though it’s the third-largest city in Malaysia, I like to describe Ipoh as a fascinating but sleepy town. Compared to the hustle and bustle you feel in most cities, Ipoh is only home to around 700,000 people – so it never feels too wild.
And I’m into it. In a big way.
Ipoh serves up delicious food, rich culture and a vibrant arts scene. You can’t visit this charming little city without trying their good ol’ Ipoh white coffee. Served with condensed milk – this coffee is one for the sweet tooths out there.
The city is also known for its natural beauty; from limestone caves, lush mountains and relaxing hot springs. Many of which you’ll find Buddhist temples have been built in.
Deciding where to stay in Ipoh can be a tricky task as it’s not a highly touristy spot (as of yet). If you’ve never visited the city, it can be difficult to find out where in Ipoh will be best for you.
But don’t you worry about a thing! I’m here to hold your hand, pour you a white coffee and help you through your decision-making process. And I’ve made things super easy for us…
I’ve compiled the top areas to stay in Ipoh based on your travel budget or interest. You’ll find the best places to stay and things to do in each area too! You’ll be an expert on the city of Ipoh in no time.
So, without further ado. Let’s get into the good stuff and find the best spot for you in Ipoh.
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Not too fussed about which area of Ipoh you stay in? Check out my top recommendations for accommodation in Ipoh.
M Boutique Hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ipoh
Ditch the generic hotels for a dose of trendy vibes at M Boutique Hotel. For travellers on a tight budget with a keen sense of style, this three-star gem in the centre of the city offers comfortable, stylish rooms. The rooms are stylishly decorated and the bed & pillows are exceptionally comfortable. A very Instagrammable hotel indeed!
The Haven All Suite Resort, Ipoh | Best Luxury Hotel in Ipoh
Located next to a lake on a limestone hill swamped with trees, The Haven All Suite Resort offers a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of urban Ipoh. This magnificent hideaway offers spacious suites with stunning views of the majestic rock formations that frame the landscape. Unwind by the stunning pool, enjoy delicious cuisine at the in house restaurant, or visit the neighbouring wonders of Ipoh.
Dé Cafe & Rest House | Best Hostel in Ipoh
Stay in capsule dorms or shared rooms in this historical building, steps from must-see attractions and delicious street food. Enjoy the free Wi-Fi and friendly hotel staff before wandering down the secret path to a small cafe selling coffee and local goodies. I also appreciated the fact that each dorm bed came with two pillows!
Ipoh Old Town Heritage Family Suite | Best Airbnb in Ipoh
This three-bedroom apartment is in an excellent position in the centre of Ipoh’s old town. All rooms are traditional Japanese-style tatami rooms, with the master bedroom including its own en-suite. It also includes a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and a separate living area. The famed Ipoh concubine lane is a stone’s throw away, placing this guest house right in the heart of the action.
Old Town
Ipoh’s Old Town is a cluster is historic colonial buildings. This is the part of the city that’s focused on tourism, and you’ll see that the moment you arrive. The Old Town is filled with trendy cafes, modern hotels, and lots of tourists and travelers enjoying great prices on their early morning coffee.
Ipoh New Town
Ipoh New Town is located in the heart of Ipoh and is one of the city’s main commercial centres. Ipoh New Town, which is separated from Ipoh Old Town by the Kinta River, is a favourite hangout for both locals and tourists alike.
Tambun
The final area on this list is Tambun. This neighborhood is in the north of Ipoh and the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Ipoh for families. This is where you’ll find a big water park to keep the kids entertained in the heat.
Ipoh isn’t a very large city, but it is a little hard for outsiders to traverse. Ipoh is easily accessed from Kuala Lumpur via train, so there’s no excuse not to fit it into a larger Malaysia backpacking itinerary. Ipoh’s diverse neighbourhoods offer something for every traveller and I’ve broken the top three neighbourhoods down into more detail below.
If it’s your first time in Ipoh, then go for the Old Town. West of the River Kinta, you can immerse yourself in the history and charm of this neighbourhood. I love wandering down the narrow alleyways here on the hunt for cheap local eats and interesting Chinese temples. This is the place for culture junkies.
East of the Kinta River is the New Town. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay if you’re pinched for pennies you should stay here as it’s where hostels are the most concentrated. That’s not all this neighbourhood is good for though – it boasts modern hotels, waterfront bars and cafes, all within walking distance to the city’s main attractions.
Finally, Tambun is a great choice if you’re deciding where to stay in Ipoh with your family. This is where you’ll find the epic Lost World of Tambun theme park for the kids (or if you want to release your inner kid.) There are also beautiful lakes, hot springs and just a whole load of beautiful surrounding nature for you to get stuck into.
Ipoh’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look at each of these areas in more detail. I’ve included my top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Ipoh Old Town – Where to Stay in Ipoh for Your First Time
Ipoh’s Old Town is a cluster of historic colonial buildings. The Old Town is super accessible if you’re on a larger Malaysia backpacking trip, as it’s just a short walk away from Ipoh Railway Station. This is the part of the city that’s focused on tourism, and you’ll see that the moment you arrive.
The Old Town is easily the best choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ipoh for your first visit. And because Ipoh city centre is so small, you won’t have any trouble getting outside of it to see the beautiful jungle and the other tourist sites.
Photo: @taya.travels
The Old Town is filled with trendy cafes, modern Ipoh hotels, and lots of tourists and travelers enjoying great prices on their early morning coffee. It’s also a foodies’ absolute dream – around every corner is a new dish for you to try. Whether it be cheap eats from a street food vendor or a local restaurant serving up Ipoh’s specialities – you better come with loose trousers here.
If shopping’s more your thing I highly recommend hidden gems like Concubine Lane – a narrow alleyway which is suuuuper significant to Ipoh’s history. You’re sure to find unique lil souvenir here or like me, you’ll spend the afternoon captivated by this neighbourhood’s charm wandering down its streets that are FULL of historical character.
Cititel Express Ipoh | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ipoh Old Town
This recently refurbished boutique hotel offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, separate seating areas and complimentary WiFi. The water pressure in the bathroom is excellent, and the branded toiletries are a nice touch. There’s also a 7/11 on the ground floor, great for a midnight snack run!
Dé Cafe & Rest House | Best Hostel in Ipoh Old Town
Stay in capsule dorms or shared rooms in this historical building, steps from must-see attractions and delicious street food. Enjoy the free Wi-Fi and friendly hotel staff before wandering down the secret path to a small cafe selling coffee and local goodies. I also appreciated the fact that each dorm bed came with two pillows!
Ipoh Old Town Heritage Family Suite | Best Airbnb in Ipoh Old Town
This three-bedroom apartment is in an excellent position in the centre of Ipoh’s old town. All rooms are traditional Japanese-style tatami rooms, with the master bedroom including its own en-suite. It also includes a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and a separate living area. The famed Ipoh concubine lane is a stone’s throw away, placing this guest house in the heart of the action.
Things to See and Do in Old Town:
Photo: @taya.travels
- Admire the Birch Memorial Clock Tower.
- Visit Concubine Lane, a bustling colonial market street.
- Explore Ipoh Old Town on a tour with a historian.
- Enjoy a boat ride and check out the waterfall in the Gunung Lang Recreational Park.
- Stroll down Kinta Riverwalk at night and take in the buzz of the city.
- Learn about the history and founding of the city at Ipoh World At Han Chin Pet Soo.
- Wander the streets and take photos of the amazing wall murals.
- Walk the Ipoh Heritage Trail, which will take you past most of the historic buildings in the city centre.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Ipoh New Town – Best Place to Stay in Ipoh on a Budget
Ipoh New Town is located in the heart of Ipoh and is one of the city’s main commercial centres. Ipoh New Town, which is separated from Ipoh Old Town by the Kinta River, is a favourite hangout for both locals and tourists alike.
While the Kinta River divides it from the historic Old Town, it’s still very accessible and easy to visit both neighbourhoods during your time here. Here, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: spend the mornings working remotely at one of the many popular coffee shops in the New Town, then cross the river to the Old Town at night to take in the energy of the vibrant historical quarter.
Photo: @taya.travels
If you’re a big window shopper like me, you’ll love this neighbourhood as it’s home to lots of shopping malls. Whether it be Ipoh Parade Mall or down one of the many night markets that the area hosts, you won’t be short of places to buy a quirky Malaysia momento.
But taking in all the street art while going down Mural Art’s Lane is unquestionably my favourite thing to do in the area. Ipoh has a flourishing street art community, much like Kuala Lumpur and George Town, and this road genuinely captures the creative spirit of the city. If you want any reasons as to why Malayia should be on your bucket list, this is one of them.
M Boutique Hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ipoh New Town
Ditch the generic hotels for a dose of trendy vibes at M Boutique Hotel. For travellers on a tight budget with a keen sense of style, this three-star gem in the centre of the city offers comfortable, stylish rooms. The rooms are stylishly decorated and the bed & pillows are exceptionally comfortable. A very Instagrammable hotel indeed!
Regalodge Hotel Ipoh | Another Great Mid-Range Hotel in Ipoh New Town
This Ipoh hotel offers air-conditioned, roomy rooms with modern conveniences that are ideal for a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. Take advantage of the free parking and the excellent on-site breakfast to fuel your Ipoh adventures. This boutique hotel places you close to the action without breaking the bank, thanks to its convenient location next to Greentown Mall and Ipoh Parade shopping mall.
JOMSTAY Majestic Ipoh Suites | Best Luxury Hotel in Ipoh New Town
Skyline vistas and city thrills! Indulge in the buzz of Ipoh’s New Town in this prime location suite. Unwind on your private balcony, prepare gourmet meals in the fully furnished kitchen, and then plunge into the private pool or relax in the lush gardens. For maximum comfort, the building has a fitness centre, a swimming pool and 24-hour security.
The Brownstone Hostel & Space | The Best Hostel in Ipoh New Town
The Brownstone Hostel is a historical townhouse erected in 1907 as a former laundry house. It was converted into the first luxury hostel in Ipoh’s new town. Inspired by the building’s history, The Brownstone Hostel preserved the building’s aesthetics while modernising the spaces and hostel facilities. The hostel has a few communal spaces, including a courtyard, rooftop garden, and TV lounge, which is perfect for making new travel buds.
Things to Do and See in New Town
Photo: @taya.travels
- Eat dim sum on Jalan Leong Sin Nam, otherwise known as ‘Dim Sum Street’.
- Spend an afternoon unwinding at D R Seenivasagam Recreational Park.
- Wander down Mural Art’s Lane and admire the street art you find.
- Enjoy a guided tour of the city where a guide will point out the best local places to eat and provide cultural insights about Ipoh.
- Visit Ipoh Parade mall.
- Play sports or just wander around in nature in D R Seenivasagam Recreational Park.
3. Tambun – Best Neighborhood in Ipoh for Families to Stay In
Tanbum is in the northeast of Ipoh city centre and is the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Ipoh for families. Most tourists travel here for the Lost World of Tambun, a theme park which is full to the brim for fun family activities! If you want to knacker the kids out for the day and unwind in the surrounding beauty that Ipoh has to offer, Tanbum is definitely the place for you.
Photo: @taya.travels
This area is also home to a pretty epic shopping mall, AEON Mall Kinta City. If you want to escape from the heat (or rain in the dreaded monsoon season) this place has you covered for killing a couple of hours. Don’t worry about finding decent grub; this area is filled with restaurants serving excellent traditional Malaysian cuisine.
If you’ve got time to kill in Ipoh I do highly recommend visiting a fruit farm that harvests Pomelo. It’s a citrus fruit that is native to the region and, along with supporting these family-run businesses, actually makes for a really cool afternoon by exploring Ipoh’s agricultural heritage.
Tulip’s Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Tambun
Skip the cramped hotel rooms! This spacious guest house provides a comfortable haven for families and groups. Air-conditioning helps to beat the heat in Ipoh, and the building’s pool keeps you cool. Shoot hoops on the basketball court, then relax knowing that 24/7 security will keep your worries at bay. All of this, plus affordable comfort and guest parking, makes it the ideal base for your Ipoh activities!
The Haven All Suite Resort, Ipoh | Best Luxury Hotel in Tambun
Located next to a lake on a limestone hill swamped with trees, The Haven All Suite Resort offers a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of urban Ipoh. This magnificent hideaway offers spacious suites with stunning views of the majestic rock formations that frame the landscape. Unwind by the stunning pool, enjoy delicious cuisine at the in house restaurant, or visit the neighbouring wonders of Ipoh. It was definitely my favourite eco-resort that I visited in Malaysia!
Sunway Lost World Hotel | Another Great Luxury Hotel in Tambun
Dive into adventure at Sunway Lost World Hotel! This exhilarating Ipoh hotel is conveniently located next to the Lost World of Tambun theme park, providing quick access to daring activities, animal encounters, and water rides. After a full day of family activities, relax in cosy accommodations and take use of the hotel’s free hot springs – the perfect way to soothe tired muscles.
The Heaven In Sunway Ipoh | Best Luxury Property in Tambun
Gather your Ipoh adventure gang! Whether you’re staying in Malaysia for one night or longer, this wonderful bungalow can easily sleep ten people in four bedrooms, making it ideal for a group retreat. Cook yourself a feast in the fully equipped kitchen, then relax after a day of exploring. Laundry facilities keep your crew looking fresh, and reliable Wi-Fi allows you to share your Insta-worthy Ipoh highlights.
Things to See and Do in Tambun:
- Relax in the air conditioning and enjoy some relaxing shopping in the AEON Mall Kinta City.
- Head to the Lost World of Tambun for a fun-filled time with the family.
- If you have the time, take a day trip out to Cameron Highlands to admire the beauty of the tea plantations.
- Take a boat out onto the stunning Mirror Lake and visit the Sam Poh Tong Temple.
- Visit a family-run Pomelo fruit farm at Tambun Pomelo GoChin Agro Farm.
- Take in the views from the hill that holds the Perak Cave Temple.
- Enjoy some of Malaysia’s awesome hiking in the Ulu Kinta Forest Reserve.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Ipoh
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Ipoh and where to stay.
What To Pack For Ipoh
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where is the best place to stay in Ipoh on a budget?
Most of the hostels in Ipoh city centre are concentrated in New Town. You can have a super pleasant stay at one of the many affordable guest houses and hostels there and use it as a base because the city is super walkable!
Where is the best place to stay with a swimming pool in Ipoh?
JOMSTAY Majestic Ipoh Suites is an epic pad in Ipoh. Sure loads of places might come with a swimming pool BUT do they come with an infinity pool with city views? I think not. This one is a winner!
Where to stay in Ipoh for food?
The Old Town has some of the best restaurants around and is a foodies’ dream. Head to Dim Sum Street (or Jalan Leong Sin Nam) to indulge in some of the city’s best. Delicious.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Ipoh
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Ipoh.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on the Where to Stay in Ipoh
Considering Ipoh is Malaysia’s third biggest city, dare I say, I actually think it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Often overlooked by urban giant Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh should definitely be on your Malaysia itinerary if you’re backpacking the country.
There are loads of awesome places to stay in Ipoh. And with such good prices, you should seriously think about trying one of the more luxurious offerings! This will make your stay in the sultry, historic city of Ipoh just that little bit extra special.
If you’re still unsure where to stay in Ipoh, I recommend Old Town. This area provides the best insight into the city and its culture and is full of shops, restaurants, and activities to keep you entertained throughout your visit. It’s also a great base for exploring the city’s other neighborhoods. My favourite hostel was Dé Cafe & Rest House in this area and found it really easy to meet other backpackers here.
If you want a little bit of luxury without breaking the bank I highly highly recommend M Boutique Hotel. This hotel is a welcome break from other generic accommodations, the rooms are stylishly designed and make for SUCH a cosy night after a long day of exploring.
Off of the radar of many travellers, Ipoh is jam-packed with culture, a rich food and art scene and tons of beautiful nature in the surrounding areas. There’s not much more you could ask for here… I highly recommend you visit before its magic becomes mainstream!
Have you visited Ipoh? Tell me if I’ve missed anything in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Malaysia.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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