Photo: Merton Hotel Ipoh
Cover Photo: Merton Hotel Ipoh

We set our sights on this idyllic destination this year for an Insta-worthy staycation for the books

This story was originally published on January 5, 2021 and updated on November 5, 2022

1. M Boutique Station 18

We're quick to feed the camera first before an immaculately presented meal; and the same follows, it would seem, for staycations at eye-catching spots like M Boutique Station 18. Decked stylishly in a monochrome theme and inspired by the heady vibes of the Jazz era, M Boutique Station 18 ticks all the boxes for Instagram-friendly accommodation in Pengkalan, Ipoh. Copper-hued chandeliers, rooms with furnishings that burst with larger-than-life typography and an espresso bar that oozes nostalgic charm here all enhance the boutique hotel's wonderfully quirky character.

M Boutique Station 18 | 15 – 23, Jalan Pengkalan Barat 35, Taman Pengkalan Jaya, Station 18, Ipoh, Perak | 05-321 1666

See also: 9 New and Refreshed Hotels to Explore in Malaysia

2. Belakang Kong Heng

Tatler Asia
Sekeping Kong Heng, Ipoh
Above The Deluxe Duplex room (Photo: Sekeping Belakang Kong Heng)

Minimalist to its core and irresistibly rustic, Belakang Kong Heng is housed in a three-storey building that once functioned as a hostel for performers in a nearby theatre. Lovingly redesigned with careful attention taken to preserve the building's original character, the ground floor of Belakang Kong Heng has a coffee shop that serves up local dishes and its rooftop pool has been captured from every angle imaginable on the Instagram feeds of many guests.       

Sekeping Belakang | 75, Jalan Bandar Timah, Ipoh, Perak | 012-227 2745

Related: The Coolest Hotel Pools In Malaysia

3. Merton Hotel Ipoh

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Merton Hotel Ipoh
Above Photo: Merton Hotel Ipoh

Another quaint hotel that seems to have captured the character of some bygone era in present day, Merton Hotel Ipoh's elegant and muted interiors are primed to put travellers at ease, the perfect place to slow your pace and catch up on some rest and relaxation away from the stress of the sleepless city. 

Merton Hotel Ipoh | 23 & 25, Jalan Lapangan Symphony, Symphony Business Park, Ipoh, Perak | 05-318-2887

See also: The Story Behind Ipoh Restaurant The Museum's Iconic Towing Char Siew

4. Ipoh Bali Hotel

Longing for the sunny vibes of a Bali vacation in 2022? Then pack your sunnies and plan your weekend stay at the Ipoh Bali Hotel, a romantic hotel in the heart of the Old Town. Offering views of a lush garden with bamboo furnishings and rustic prints, rooms like the Superior Double Room here (pictured above) are lovingly designed to transport you to the famed island paradise. Spa lovers here will waste no time in booking a pampering massage at the Ipoh Bali Spa.         

Ipoh Bali Hotel | 12A, Lorong Cheah Cheang Lim, Off Jalan Tambun, Ipoh, Perak | 010 566 0222

More: Garden Getaways: 7 Malaysian Retreats Surrounded by Greenery

5. Z Hotel Ipoh

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Z Hotel Ipoh
Above The Premier Studio room (Photo: Z Hotel Ipoh)

Old world grandeur meets small town charm with Z Hotel Ipoh, an understated hideaway in Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil in Ipoh. Foodies, take note: the hotel is within walking distance to famous eateries like the Foh San Dim Sum, Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum and more. Come evening, park yourself at the rooftop Z Lounge for panoramic views of the surrounding area at night.    

Z Hotel Ipoh | 8, Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil, Ipoh, Perak | 05-253 0188

First Look: How the Vibrant Energy of KL Inspired the Founders of Else Kuala Lumpur

6. Weil Hotel Ipoh

Are you a high tea aficionado? When you're next in Ipoh, be sure to pay a visit to Weil Hotel's beautifully appointed Tea Lounge. Besides treating guests to a good cuppa, this popular hotel's plush, contemporary interiors maintain a uniquely local charm that's inspired by the neighbourhood. Weil Hotel's swimming pool is also a great place to relax and soak in amazing views of the area. 

Weil Hotel Ipoh | 292, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah, Ipoh, Perak | 05-208 2228        

See also: The Ultimate Guide To Afternoon Tea

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