A fascinating cultural melting pot, bustling George Town is Penang’s charming hub — and the focus for most travellers visit the island. This magical port community has been UNESCO-listed since 2008, and now brims with restored shophouses, temples and fizzing street food stands. Beyond George Town, you’ll find laid-back villages dotted amidst the paddy fields, and a beautiful coastline for lazy beach days of active water sports adventures. Accommodation options are appealingly wide-ranging; the best places to stay in Penang include everything from intimate heritage B&Bs to beautiful contemporary hotels for couples, families and friends.

George Town has a brilliant culinary reputation, and it’s widely regarded as the foodie capital of Malaysia. Take a guided street food tour to sample local delicacies, hone your skills with trip to the wet market followed by an expert-led cooking class, or savour traditional Nyonya and Peranakan cuisine in atmospheric restaurants. Much of George Town’s appeal lies in its cultural fusion of Straits Chinese, Malay, Indian and British influences, seen not only in its mouth-watering cuisine, but in the community’s well-preserved architecture. Visit the vast Kek Lok Si-Temple complex, tour the blue-painted Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, or admire the Pinang Peranakan Museum and the Clan Jetties.

Clamber through the Botanical Gardens to the top of Penang Hill for arresting views, unwind on the beaches of Batu Ferringhi, or try water sports, golf and cycling at spots across the island. Thereafter, return to one of the best places to stay in Penang for refreshing pool dips and craft cocktails.

The Best Places to Stay in Penang

For Old-School Romance

• Seven Terraces has to be one of George Town's most magical properties, owned by hotelier Chris Ong. Set above an antique shop and exhibition space, this restored residence offers delectable French-Malaysian dining and a refreshing swimming pool. Suites have carved four poster beds and richly embroidered textiles. An intimate gem.
• Campbell House is a charming boutique bolthole set above a restored shop house on one of George Town's most interesting streets. Couples will love the Venetian restaurant, the individually designed rooms with vintage furnishings and artwork crafted from upcycled saris, as well as the tranquil vibe. A delight.
• Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion — also known as the Blue Mansion — is a splendid heritage hotel, famous as the opulent residence of a late-nineteenth century Chinese tycoon. Rooms and suites are inspired by Chinese dynasties, and feature antique pieces, intricate latticework and sunken bathtubs. Very romantic.

For a Landmark Hotel

• The Eastern & Oriental Hotel first opened its doors in 1885. Designed by the Sarkies Brothers, who also created Raffles in Singapore, it's been a Penang icon ever since. A recent refurbishment means that the hotel boasts 232 indulgent suites, many of which face the Andaman Sea, as well as two pools, a gym and extensive events spaces. An opulent choice for a wedding, couples' holiday or business trip.

For Families or Groups

• Noordin Mews is a hip, 16-room hotel set in a former Peranakan shophouse. Unwind by the pool or daytime eatery before retreating to funky rooms with 1950s prints, wet room-style bathrooms and built-in spare beds for additional guests of all ages. Historic, well-located and friendly for groups or families.
• Jawi Peranakan Mansion has 14 gorgeous rooms and suites, many of which have space for additional beds for little ones. There's no restaurant on site, but you'll find superb street food just steps away, and there's a refreshing plunge pool for post-exploratory dips. Book Mansion Suite for king beds on two levels and a private seating area. A striking heritage choice for families or groups.
• Yeng Keng Hotel is an affordable spot with 19 rooms and suites, many of which have space for additional beds. History buffs will appreciate the 200-year-old building's quirky design, whilst the Chulia Street location is great for exploring. The courtyard swimming pool and flexible café meals are ideal for little ones. A family or group favourite.

For Contemporary Cool

• Macalister Mansion hides eight stunning contemporary suites behind a classic George Town façade. The fabulous restaurant will delight foodies; elegant dishes can be paired with 300+ wines. A grown up spot for the design conscious in the heart of George Town.
• The Prestige is an unusual George Town offering, with design-led interiors featuring dusky pinks, warm greens, brass accents and lots of glass in a big, whitewashed building. A contemporary reimagining of Victorian style, this swish hotel has a rooftop pool with ocean views, events spaces, a lively arcade and funky Glasshouse Restaurant. Very hip.
• The Edison fuses the historic charm of its 1906 exterior with a crisp, modern aesthetic in rooms, suites and communal interior spaces. Expect white linens and monochrome furnishings, with bold teal accents. A chic boutique choice with 35 rooms & suites and a plunge pool.

For a Beach Break

• Lone Pine Hotel offers a smart beachfront stay near Batu Ferringhi. The historic façade reveals 90 modern rooms and suites, set around a big swimming pool with child-friendly zones. Expect all the mod-cons, direct beach access and heaps of family-friendly activities. Very relaxing.

For Great Value

• Muntri Mews is a great value choice in old George Town. Many rooms have four poster beds topped with embroidered Indian quilts, and private terraces. Loft Suites sleep six guests & the Terrace Suites sleep four; perfect for fun, affordable group trips. There's a relaxed terrace café, too.
• Hotel Penaga offers an atmospheric heritage stay in rooms with four-poster beds and an appealing vintage feel. Enjoy relaxing massages and fusion fare. A stylish, reasonably priced hotel for history-minded travellers.
• Muntri Grove has 16 eclectic, vintage-inspired rooms and suites, many of which overlook its lush gardens. Pick this place for the heritage feel, chic interiors, rooftop pool and affordable rates. Families are welcome, but this is also a great choice for couples or friends.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Penang Bayan Lepas International Airport, just 30 minutes from George Town, and travel to your destination by taxi. Alternatively, journey to Kuala Lumpur International Airport and take a 6-hour train to Penang, or drive 4.5 hours from Kuala Lumpur.
• If you're confident driving in Asia, Malaysia is a beautiful destination for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Tropical and humid, Malaysia is a year-round destination. Temperatures hover around 28-33°C for much of the year, with the heaviest rainfall expected in April - May and October - November. Showers are frequent. Expect the city to be particularly busy during festival periods, including Chinese New Year.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Malaysia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

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