What Are the Best Hotels in Malang, Indonesia?

The colourful tiled roofs of Jodipan village are an insight to the vibrant style of Malang
The colourful tiled roofs of Jodipan village are an insight to the vibrant style of Malang | © Denis Moskvinov / Alamy Stock Photo
Edira Putri

Malang, a laid-back city in Indonesia, offers vibrant hostels and modern hotels in the shadow of Mount Bromo, with the waterfalls and hiking trails of East Java in easy reach. Book your hotel in Malang with Culture Trip.

Just an hour from the skyscrapers of Surabaya, the relaxed East Java city of Malang sits in the mighty shadow of brooding Mount Bromo (with its volcanic terrain and hiking trails) – offering the perfect blend of countryside adventures and low-key city living. Explore nearby pastel-hued villages such as Jodipan, the hillside waterfall of Coban Rais to the north and the quiet temples and flower gardens hiding in the surrounding hills. For places to stay, look no further than these sociable hostels, smart hotels and luxurious villas.

1. Shanaya Resort Malang

Resort

Small and private wooden cabins at Shanaya Resort Malang
Courtesy of Shanaya Resort Malang / Booking.com

A cosy collection of red-roofed villas, backing onto private plunge pools and surrounded by verdant greenery, Shanaya Resort offers a homely base in an emerald-green valley on the outskirts of Malang. Villas feature beautiful tiled floors and four-poster beds carved from rich teak, while wood-panelled glamping huts, set in terraced green fields, offer another stylish option. Don’t miss the chance to hike in the cool, refreshing air of the surrounding hills.

2. Swiss-Belinn Malang

Chain Hotel

The exterior and pool area at Swiss-Belinn Malang
Courtesy of Swiss-Belinn Malang / Expedia

The friendly, vibrant atmosphere at this city-centre hotel is immediately evident from its colourful red, white and blue exterior, which extends to the contemporary guest rooms, with their bright feature walls and modern, minimalist furniture. The star attraction, though, is the hotel’s location, in the heart of Malang and perfectly placed for exploring the attractions in the city. Be sure to visit the rainbow-hued village of Jodipan, a former slum painted in vibrant pastel shades, from the roads to the roofs.

4. SO! Boutique Hostel

Boutique Hotel, Hostel

A seating area with world map, television screen and small coffee table at So Boutique Hostel
Courtesy of So Boutique Hostel / Expedia

For a hostel stay in Malang that’s equal parts style and sociability, look no further than SO! Boutique. Dorms are both mixed and female-only, and the whole place has a trendy, industrial-chic look, with exposed brick walls and polished concrete bathrooms. The hostel’s location means it’s easy to explore Malang with your new travel companions. Relax by the lily pond of nearby Alun-Alun Tugu Malang, or explore the bars and restaurants in the neighbourhood, once the sun goes down.

5. Atria Hotel Malang

Hotel, Spa Hotel

The outdoor pool area at night, lit up by sidelights at Atria Hotel Malang
Courtesy of Atria Hotel Malang / Expedia

Don’t let the fear of giving up modern luxuries and comforts keep you from enjoying the scenic old town of Malang. Atria Hotel is a popular choice among executives and urban families who know they deserve the best of both worlds. The establishment comes with sophisticated amenities for business and leisure, including high-speed wifi, spa treatments and an outdoor pool with picturesque views of the town and faraway mountains.

6. Kusuma Agrowisata Resort & Convention Hotel

Hotel

The courtyard at the front of the Kusuma Agrowisata Resort & Convention Hotel, Batu
Courtesy of Kusuma Agrowisata Resort & Convention Hotel / Expedia

Being a town with splendid natural charms, your visit to Malang will not be complete without some fun agritourism. Kusuma Agrowisata Hotel has a vast farm, where tourists can pick fresh fruit and bask in the tropical sunlight while enjoying a splendid garden view. The little ones can also enjoy themselves in the waterpark or at the playground while adults indulge in some relaxing activities in the homey room, opulent pool or at the romantic restaurant.

7. Kertanegara Premium Guest House

Hotel, Guesthouse

A double room with large blinds and minimal furnishinsg at Kertanegara Premium Guest House, Malang
Courtesy of Kertanegara Premium Guest House / Expedia

Seamlessly putting together Javanese style elements with modern design principles, this premium guest house presents a neat contemporary space with charming traditional touches. Each room combines soothing and earthy elements to make your night as relaxing as can be. Run by the brand behind the famed Rumah Makan Kertanegara restaurant, excellent customer-oriented service is guaranteed at this establishment.

8. Omah Kayu

Resort

Two traditional wooden buildings at Omah Kayu
Courtesy of Omah Kayu / Expedia

Omah Kayu is your childhood dream treehouse come true – or better. Each room sits on a firm pine tree overlooking the jungle, with a distant city view. Whether it’s during sunrise, the golden hours or at nighttime, with the flickering city lights in the distance, every minute here offers a mesmerizing experience. Although it looks very humble and simple, each treehouse is equipped with modern amenities, including a much-needed water heater for the cool Malang weather.

9. Tugu Hotel Malang

Suite Hotel

An outdoor pool at night with many surroundings plants and red lighting at Tugu Hotel Malang
Courtesy of Tugu Hotel Malang / Expedia

More than just a place to lay your head at night, Tugu Hotel is a cultural and historical spot with a dignified, traditional elegance. Even the rooms have historical artefacts embellishing the interior, and there’s a story hidden in every part of the building. The ornate and luxurious rooms feel a lot like a royal dwelling, complete with a stunning swimming pool, a high-end restaurant and an antique shop on site. Ask for a historical tour around the vast complex, free of charge.

10. The Shalimar

Boutique Hotel

The white-walled Shalimar hotel with a classic Mercedes car parked out the front
Courtesy of The Shalimar / Expedia

The comfort and luxury of this boutique hotel are reflected in its architecture and design, making guests feel welcome in this grand colonial home from the 1930s. With the elegance of European architecture and the loveliness of traditional Javanese touches, this exclusive boutique hotel guarantees a delightful stay with style. Guests can also enjoy the relaxing swimming pool, snuggly library, spa sanctuary and more.

Daniel Stables has contributed additional reporting to this article.

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