Welcome to your ultimate guide to finding the perfect accommodation in Penang, Malaysia! Whether you’re seeking opulent luxury, comfortable mid-range options, or budget-friendly gems, this island paradise has something for every traveler. This post will navigate you through carefully selected hotels, ensuring your stay in the “Pearl of the Orient” is as memorable as its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
What you’ll find in this guide:
- Curated lists of 5 top-rated hotels in Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget categories.
- Detailed descriptions, key features, and approximate price ranges for each hotel.
- A convenient booking search tool.
- Bonus tips on Penang’s must-visit attractions, activities, and culinary delights!
Indulge: Penang’s Premier Luxury Hotels
For those who desire the finest experiences, Penang’s luxury hotels offer world-class amenities, breathtaking views, and impeccable service. Expect to be pampered in style.
Eastern & Oriental Hotel
Approximate Price Range: $250 – $600+ / night
Known as the E&O, this iconic heritage hotel exudes colonial charm and elegance. Located in George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers stunning sea views and a rich history dating back to 1885. Guests can enjoy spacious suites with classic furnishings, 24-hour butler service, and multiple dining options including traditional English afternoon tea. The hotel features two swimming pools, a well-equipped fitness center, and a tranquil spa. Its prime location provides easy access to historical landmarks, vibrant street art, and bustling markets. The E&O is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of historical grandeur and modern luxury.
Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang
Approximate Price Range: $200 – $500+ / night
Nestled along the famous Batu Ferringhi Beach, Shangri-La Rasa Sayang offers a lush, tropical resort experience. The resort is set amidst 30 acres of verdant gardens and features majestic, centuries-old rain trees. It boasts two distinct wings: the Rasa Wing, offering exclusive privileges and larger rooms, and the Garden Wing, ideal for families. Amenities include multiple swimming pools, a par-3 pitch and putt golf course, a comprehensive spa (CHI, The Spa), and diverse culinary experiences, from beachside grills to fine dining. Its beachfront location is perfect for water sports and enjoying Penang’s beautiful sunsets.
Gurney Resort Hotel & Residences
Approximate Price Range: $180 – $450+ / night
Located on the popular Gurney Drive, this all-suite resort hotel offers spacious accommodations with private jacuzzis in every suite and stunning sea views. It’s well-known for its large landscaped swimming pool, which includes a wave pool and water slides, making it a hit with families. The resort also features a variety of dining options, a fitness center, and a spa. Its proximity to Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon Mall means shopping and a wide array of food choices are just a short walk away. The famous Gurney Drive hawker stalls are also nearby for an authentic taste of Penang.
Parkroyal Penang Resort
Approximate Price Range: $150 – $400+ / night
Situated on Batu Ferringhi Beach, Parkroyal Penang Resort is a family-friendly luxury destination. The resort offers contemporary rooms and suites, many with sea views and private balconies. It features two swimming pools, a dedicated kids’ club with extensive activities, a watersports centre, and the St. Gregory Spa. Dining options range from international buffets to Asian specialties. The resort’s lush gardens and direct beach access provide a relaxing escape, while still being close to night markets and local eateries. It’s an excellent choice for families and couples looking for a vibrant beach holiday.
Angsana Teluk Bahang, Penang
Approximate Price Range: $170 – $480+ / night
Overlooking the Andaman Sea in the tranquil Teluk Bahang area, Angsana Teluk Bahang is a vibrant and contemporary resort. All rooms and suites feature sea views and Peranakan-inspired décor. The resort boasts an award-winning Angsana Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and two swimming pools, including an infinity pool. It offers direct access to a secluded beach. For families, there’s a kids’ club and various recreational activities. Its location is ideal for exploring nearby attractions like Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm and Escape Theme Park. This resort is perfect for those seeking a modern luxury escape with a touch of local culture.
Comfort & Value: Penang’s Top Mid-Range Hotels
Mid-range hotels in Penang strike a perfect balance between comfort, amenities, and affordability. Ideal for travelers who want quality without breaking the bank.
The Wembley Hotel Penang
Approximate Price Range: $70 – $150 / night
Located in the heart of George Town, The Wembley Hotel offers contemporary accommodations with easy access to the city’s key attractions, shopping malls like KOMTAR, 1st Avenue, and Prangin Mall, and business districts. The hotel features comfortable rooms with modern amenities, an outdoor swimming pool, a well-equipped gym, and several dining options, including a popular lounge with city views. Its strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, with many historical landmarks, street art, and famous food stalls within walking distance. It’s a great choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking convenience and comfort.
Hotel Neo+ Penang
Approximate Price Range: $50 – $120 / night
Hotel Neo+ Penang is a stylish and modern hotel situated in George Town, offering a chic and comfortable stay at an affordable price. The rooms are designed with a contemporary flair, featuring essential amenities for a pleasant stay. The hotel provides an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and meeting facilities. Its central location is a major plus, allowing guests to easily explore nearby attractions, cafes, and the vibrant street food scene. Hotel Neo+ is popular among younger travelers and those looking for a trendy yet value-for-money option in the city.
Bayview Hotel Georgetown
Approximate Price Range: $60 – $140 / night
The Bayview Hotel Georgetown stands tall in the city, offering panoramic views of George Town and the coastline. It features well-appointed rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a popular revolving restaurant on the top floor that provides stunning 360-degree views. The hotel is conveniently located near historical sites, shopping areas, and business centers. It’s a solid choice for travelers who appreciate good views, comfortable facilities, and a central location to explore the cultural richness of Penang. The hotel also offers versatile event spaces for meetings and functions.
Travelodge Georgetown
Approximate Price Range: $55 – $130 / night
Travelodge Georgetown offers a comfortable and convenient stay in a prime location. Known for its essentially better concept, the hotel provides modern, well-equipped rooms, a communal co-working space, a fitness center, and an on-site eatery. It’s situated within walking distance of many of George Town’s famous street food stalls, heritage sites, and shopping areas. This hotel is ideal for savvy travelers who value comfort, connectivity, and a central base to explore the city without a hefty price tag. The vibrant and social atmosphere also appeals to many guests.
Cititel Penang
Approximate Price Range: $65 – $145 / night
Cititel Penang is a well-established hotel located in Upper Penang Road, known for its vibrant nightlife and proximity to George Town’s heritage zone. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with city or sea views, an indoor swimming pool, a gym, and several dining options, including a popular Chinese restaurant. Its location is excellent for exploring both historical attractions and modern entertainment venues. Cititel Penang provides a good balance of comfort, convenience, and value, making it a popular choice for both tourists and business travelers. The hotel also has extensive MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities.
Smart & Savvy: Penang’s Best Budget Accommodations
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on a great experience in Penang. These accommodations offer clean, comfortable, and strategically located stays.
Tune Hotel Georgetown Penang
Approximate Price Range: $25 – $70 / night
Tune Hotel Georgetown follows a “pay-as-you-use” concept, offering clean, basic rooms with high-quality beds and power showers. Guests can add on amenities like air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and toiletries according to their needs, which helps keep the base price low. The hotel is strategically located in George Town, providing easy access to historical sites, street food, and public transport. It’s an excellent choice for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a comfortable sleep and a central location over extensive in-house facilities. The focus is on providing essential comfort at an affordable price.
Red Inn Penang
Approximate Price Range: $20 – $60 / night
Red Inn Penang is a popular budget guesthouse located in the heart of George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, it offers a range of accommodation from dormitory beds to private rooms, many with shared bathroom facilities. The guesthouse features a communal lounge area, free Wi-Fi, and often a simple breakfast. Its prime location on Love Lane makes it a hub for backpackers and travelers looking to immerse themselves in the historical ambiance and vibrant nightlife of the area. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and characterful setting.
Chulia Mansion
Approximate Price Range: $30 – $80 / night
Chulia Mansion is a well-regarded budget boutique hotel located on Chulia Street, one of George Town’s most iconic roads. It offers compact, modern rooms with en-suite bathrooms and essential amenities. A key highlight is its rooftop bar and jacuzzi, which provides excellent views of the city – a feature not commonly found in budget accommodations. Guests also appreciate the complimentary light breakfast and evening snacks. Its central location means easy access to street food, cafes, historical sites, and public transport, making it a great value proposition for travelers.
Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel
Approximate Price Range: $15 – $50 / night (dorm/private)
Located on Muntri Street, another heritage lane in George Town, Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel offers a Japanese-inspired minimalist design. It provides both dormitory-style beds and private rooms, all with shared bathroom facilities that are kept very clean. The hostel features a cozy common area, a small pantry, and free Wi-Fi. It’s praised for its clean, quiet, and comfortable environment, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city. This is an excellent option for solo travelers and those who appreciate a calm, well-maintained, and stylish budget stay.
The Frame Guesthouse
Approximate Price Range: $20 – $65 / night
The Frame Guesthouse is a chic and artistic guesthouse located in Chulia Street, known for its unique industrial-chic design combined with heritage elements. It offers a mix of dormitory beds and private rooms, with options for shared or en-suite bathrooms. The guesthouse has a vibrant communal area, a courtyard, and often hosts small events or art displays. Guests love its stylish ambiance, friendly staff, and central location, which is perfect for exploring George Town’s attractions on foot. It provides a more boutique experience within the budget category, appealing to design-conscious travelers.
Beyond Your Stay: Unveiling Penang’s Treasures
Penang is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an island brimming with culture, history, nature, and, most famously, food! Once you’ve settled into your chosen accommodation, it’s time to explore.
Must-See Sights & Heritage
- George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site: Wander through streets adorned with vibrant street art, colonial architecture, and historic clan houses like Khoo Kongsi.
- Penang Hill: Take a funicular train ride to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and mainland. Enjoy the cool air and nature trails.
- Kek Lok Si Temple: One of Southeast Asia’s largest Chinese temples, featuring a towering Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas and a giant bronze statue of Kuan Yin.
- Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion): A magnificent indigo-blue mansion showcasing exquisite 19th-century Chinese architectural styles. Guided tours are available.
Thrilling Activities & Nature Escapes
- ESCAPE Penang: An adventure theme park with zip lines, obstacle courses, and water slides, perfect for thrill-seekers and families.
- Penang National Park (Taman Negara Pulau Pinang): Explore jungle trails, pristine beaches like Monkey Beach and Kerachut Beach (Turtle Sanctuary), and a unique meromictic lake.
- Batu Ferringhi Beach: Enjoy water sports, relax on the sand, or browse the lively night market.
- The Habitat Penang Hill: Walk along the Langur Way Canopy Walk for stunning treetop views and discover the rich biodiversity of Penang’s rainforest. For more information on Penang’s natural attractions, you can visit the official Penang Global Tourism website which offers comprehensive guides.
A Culinary Journey: Taste of Penang
Penang is a food lover’s paradise, renowned globally for its street food. Don’t leave without trying:
- Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and chives in a savory dark sauce.
- Assam Laksa: A tangy and spicy fish-based noodle soup with a tamarind broth, a true Penang specialty.
- Hokkien Mee (Prawn Mee): A rich and flavorful noodle soup with a broth made from prawns and pork ribs.
- Nasi Lemak: Fragrant coconut rice served with spicy sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and a hard-boiled egg.
- Cendol: A refreshing dessert of shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and green rice flour jelly.
“Penang is often called the food capital of Malaysia, and for good reason. Every corner offers a new culinary adventure!”
Ready for Your Penang Adventure?
Penang offers an incredible tapestry of experiences, from luxurious relaxation to cultural immersion and culinary delights. With this guide, finding the perfect place to stay is the first step towards an unforgettable journey. We hope this helps you plan your dream trip to the Pearl of the Orient!
What are you most excited to experience in Penang? Share your thoughts in the comments below!