Alright, buckle up — because Penang’s hotel scene is honestly wild. One minute you’re sipping kopi in a 19th-century mansion with carved teak ceilings, the next you’re swinging in a hammock facing Batu Ferringhi’s waves.
As people who go back to Penang way more often than our waistlines approve (seriously, Char Koay Teow is our Roman kryptonite), we’ve tested the island’s hotel scene inside-out. And trust us: the best hotels in Penang are not always the fanciest — they’re the ones with personality, great locations, and that “cannot wait to come back” vibe.
This guide breaks down the best hotels in Penang across Georgetown, the beachside, and the quiet corners only seasoned travelers talk about. Expect honest experiences, small warnings, insider wins, and our favourite neighbourhood tips — all so you can pick the perfect stay.
Let’s get into the fun part.
Why Penang Has Some of the Best Hotels in Southeast Asia
Penang is one of the rare places where heritage, creativity, and luxury all coexist without trying too hard. That’s why the best hotels in Penang range from restored mansions to stylish boutique stays to sandy beach resorts.
Also… competition here is stiff. Meaning you get amazing value. Seriously: the best hotels in Penang often cost less than a hostel in Paris. (Roman still cries about this sometimes.)
So whether you’re a culture lover, foodie, beach bum, or “I just want a quiet room with strong WiFi” traveler, the best hotels in Penang will spoil you.
Best Area to Stay in Penang — Quick Breakdown
Before we dive into the actual hotels, let’s settle the biggest question we get all the time:
“Where’s the best area to stay in Penang?”
Here’s the quick breakdown:
Georgetown
Perfect if you want culture, cafés, street art, and heritage hotels. Most of the best hotels in Penang are here.
Batu Ferringhi
Great for beaches, sunset bars, and resort-style living.
Tanjung Tokong / Gurney
More modern, perfect for foodies who love convenience (and air-conditioning).
Balik Pulau
Quiet countryside vibes — think paddy fields, kampung roads, and nature.
Alright. Now, let’s talk about where to actually book.
Best Boutique Hotels in Penang
Boutique hotels are Penang’s secret weapon — the perfect blend of design, soul, and storytelling. And honestly, some of the hotels in Penang fall right into this category.
1. Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion
If Wes Anderson directed a movie set in Asia, it would probably look like this.
We stayed here once and Roman spent 20 minutes photographing a single window. That’s how pretty it is.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Iconic indigo façade
- Award-winning restoration
- Rooms that feel like stepping into history
- Breakfast that makes waking up worth it
Staying here feels cinematic — slow, romantic, atmospheric. It’s absolutely one of the best hotels in Penang if you love heritage charm.
BOOK NOW
2. Seven Terraces
Imagine living inside a beautifully restored Straits Chinese home… with modern beds, glorious bathrooms, and afternoon tea.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Location right behind the Goddess of Mercy Temple
- Masterpiece restoration
- Spacious suites (rare in Penang)
- Peranakan antiques everywhere
It’s one of those hotels in Penang that feels luxurious without being pretentious.
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3. Sinkeh Hotel
Minimalist, artistic, and run by lovely people who actually care about design.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Stylish wooden rooms
- Hidden courtyard garden
- Calm but central
- Perfect for creative travellers
If you want one of the best hotels in Penang that’s quiet, unique, and aesthetic — this is it.
Best Heritage Mansions in Penang
We LOVE heritage stays. They feel like time travel with air-conditioning.
The best hotels in Penang within this category make you feel like you’re living in the old trading days — minus the sweaty humidity of 1880.
4. Jawi Peranakan Mansion
This one shocked us. It’s intimate, elegant, and surprisingly affordable.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Moorish architecture
- Tiny pool but super atmospheric
- Gorgeous tilework
- Breakfast with love
Definitely one of the best hotels in Penang for couples.
5. 23 LoveLane
A charming cluster of restored homes, each room with its own personality.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Quiet but central
- Beautifully curated interiors
- Deep heritage charm
- Very photogenic
A solid pick if you want the best hotels in Penang with vintage flair.
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Best Beach Resorts in Penang
Let’s switch gears: you want sea breeze, sunsets, and sandy toes. Batu Ferringhi is where the best hotels in Penang for beach lovers gather.
6. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang
Classic, lush, iconic.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Massive rainforest vibe
- Private-feeling beach area
- Huge breakfast spread
- Quiet, romantic, polished
Easily one of the best hotels in Penang if you want a proper five-star experience.
7. Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Fun, loud, energetic. If you love music and pool parties, this is the vibe.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Lagoon pool rooms (!)
- Family-friendly
- Great entertainment
- Beachfront
It’s not subtle — but it is one of the best hotels in Penang for travellers who want energy, not tranquility.
BOOK NOW
8. PARKROYAL Penang Resort
A reliable favourite.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Recently renovated
- Great service
- Solid facilities
- Good for families and couples
This is one of the best hotels in Penang if you want a well-rounded beach resort without the premium price tag.
BOOK NOW
Best Modern Hotels in Penang
For travellers who prefer newer rooms, bright lighting, strong WiFi, and modern amenities — here’s where the best hotels in Penang really shine.
9. The Prestige Hotel
Think Victorian steampunk meets Singapore-level polish.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Automated rooms
- Aesthetic pool
- Super clean
- Chic interiors
One of the best hotels in Penang for people who love contemporary luxury.
10. Courtyard by Marriott Penang
Reliable, modern, and close to hawker heaven.
Why it’s one of the best hotels in Penang
- Spacious rooms
- Great service
- Rooftop dining
- Consistent comfort
Perfect for business travellers… or people who want to eat at New Lane every day. (Guilty.)
Our Personal Tips for Choosing the Best Hotels in Penang
After dozens of stays (and way too many roti bakar breakfasts), here’s what we always tell our friends:
1. Pick based on your stomach.
If you’re food-focused, the best hotels in Penang for you are in Georgetown, full stop.
2. Don’t underestimate Georgetown noise.
Heritage hotels are beautiful… but thin walls are real. Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
3. If you want beach quality > quantity, choose the right area.
Batu Ferringhi beaches are nice, but Teluk Bahang is calmer.
4. Book early for weekends.
The best hotels in Penang sell out faster than Penangites finishing nasi kandar during lunch hour.
5. If you’re a photographer, go for heritage stays.
The light, the textures, the details… chef’s kiss.
Final Thoughts
Penang is one of Malaysia’s biggest travel jackpots — stunning culture, unforgettable food, and accommodation that seriously delivers.
Whether you’re craving a charming mansion stay, a cosy boutique hideout, or a beach resort where you don’t even need to wear shoes… the best hotels in Penang have something for every style and every mood.
And if you ever spot us wandering around Georgetown with a camera in one hand and muah chee in the other — say hi. We’ll gladly give you more hotel tips on the spot.
Happy planning, and enjoy Penang for us!
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