Penang is an amazing destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Malaysia. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, stunning colonial towns with a rich history, and great food.
When planning a trip to Penang, one of the most important things to consider is where to stay. With so many hotels in Penang, it can become a little overwhelming. Whether you want to be close to all the action or tucked away on a quiet beach, here are my best tips on where to stay in Penang.
The best areas to stay in Penang
Penang Island offers loads of diverse areas, each with its own charm and offerings. To figure out which area is the best fit for your needs, I'll give you a rundown of my favourite areas, activities, and hotels in Penang.
If you're looking for sightseeing and culture, head to George Town, the capital city of the island. You can also find great shopping at the popular seafront promenade called Gurney Drive. If you want to relax at the beach, Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah are the top spots to visit. Don't worry, if you're a traveller on a budget, I have you covered with Sungai Dua, and if you just need to stay close to the airport, then Bayan Lepas is your area!
1. Where to stay in Penang for the first timers & sightseeing & culture: George Town
George Town is an amazing spot for you if you are interested in sightseeing and experiencing its unique culture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a cultural hotspot for centuries and holds an abundance of historical sites, museums, galleries, and monuments. George Town is also home to some of the best hotels in Penang.
The walled city of George Town is full of colonial architecture and great examples of traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures.
Best area for:
First timers
Solo Travellers
Backpackers
Things to see & do in George Town
When you visit George Town, you will notice that the streets are filled with art. Taking a street art tour is a popular activity, and I suggest doing it because, besides enjoying the murals, it is also an excellent way to become familiar with the city.
Downtown George Town is a food paradise and has some of the best street food on the Island. Head to Kimberley Street Food Night Market and explore the different hawker stalls serving dishes influenced by Malaysia, China, and India. Don't miss trying Malaysia's national dish, Nasi Lemak – it's my personal favourite!
Kek Lok Si Temple is an incredibly special attraction in George Town and it is definitely worth a visit during your stay. Located at the foot of Penang Hill, this Buddhist temple dates back to 1890 and has become one of the most iconic landmarks in Malaysia. It is the biggest Buddhist temple in all of Malaysia!
Best hotels to stay in George Town
($$$) Eastern & Oriental Hotel
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in George Town, located in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The boutique heritage hotel is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the culture and history of this amazing city.
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($$) The George
The George, George Town Penang offers luxurious accommodations with spacious rooms, modern amenities, and an indoor swimming pool. It is situated close to the city's historical sites, making it the perfect choice for exploring all that George Town has to offer.
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($) Swing & Pillows
Swing & Pillows is a great budget alternative for travellers looking to explore Penang. It is situated in the heart of George Town and offers simple yet comfortable private rooms and dorm rooms.
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2. Where to stay on the beach in Penang: Batu Ferringhi
If you are looking for a beach getaway, then Batu Ferringhi is the perfect spot for you! The beach is popular for its golden sand and clear waters, offering great opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
The beach is situated in the north of the island and is surrounded by lush rainforests. If you are looking for a few days of relaxation or want to enjoy some of the beachfront resorts, I highly recommend coming here!
Best area for:
Beach Lovers
Couples
Families
Things to see & do in Batu Ferringhi
With Batu Ferringhi having one of the best beaches in Malaysia, you might as well make use of it! Bring your swimsuit and a sand-free beach towel, and spend some time in the ocean. You can also join some water sports activities like windsurfing or parasailing if you're feeling adventurous.
Penang National Park is located nearby and is a great spot for some hiking. Explore the different trails available, and you might even get to witness some of the wildlife living in the forest. The hiking here is pretty low-key, making it a great day trip to bring your whole family.
Visiting Entopia, the Butterfly and insect farm, is an excellent family activity. You can explore all sorts of different insect and butterfly species through interactive displays and experience the wonders of nature up close.
Best hotels in Penang by the beach
($$$) PARKROYAL Penang Resort
The PARKROYAL Penang Resort is one of the most luxurious hotels in Penang, especially if you are looking for a beachfront holiday. This luxurious resort offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea and is a great spot for the whole family.
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($$) Shangri-La Golden Sands
Shangri-La Golden Sands is a great mid-range choice for the whole family due to its great location on the beach, as well as its waterpark and kids' club. The hotel offers direct access to the beach, allowing you to spend some time relaxing and soaking up the sun.
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($) By The Sea
By The Sea is a great budget option for travellers wanting to stay right by the beach in Penang. These beachfront apartments offer comfortable and affordable accommodations for those on a tight budget.
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3. Where to stay in Penang for nightlife & shopping: Gurney Drive
The popular seafront promenade Gurney Drive is the perfect spot for those looking to explore Penang's bustling nightlife and shopping scene. The area offers street markets, lively bars, and many great restaurants where you can find local and international dishes.
Gurney Drive is also home to some of the city's best malls, such as Gurney Plaza and Paragon Mall.
Best area for:
Nightlife lovers
Solo Travellers
Backpackers
Things to see & do on Gurney Drive
If you're a foodie, don't miss out on Gurney Drive! Head over to the promenade and sample some of the local dishes like Laksa or Char Kway Teow from the street food stalls. For a change of pace, there are also lovely cafes in the area. Check out The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf for the best coffee in town or stop by Crepe Cottage for some delicious crepes.
Feeling like you need to escape the heat and indulge in a shopping spree at some of the biggest malls in the country? Gurney Plaza and Paragon Mall are the perfect spots for a bit of retail therapy. Here, you'll find the newest fashion trends, electronics, and more.
Best hotels to stay in Penang for nightlife
($$$) G Hotel Gurney
Overlooking Gurney Drive, G Hotel is an excellent 5-star option for those looking to explore Penang's nightlife. This luxury hotel offers magnificent views of the sea and might be the best hotel in George Town.
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($$) Ascott Gurney
The G Hotel Gurney is a great option for those looking to be close to the hustle and bustle of George Town. A luxurious infinity pool located on the rooftop also provides stunning views of the cityscape at night.
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($) Gurney Lodge
Gurney Lodge is the best budget hotel for those looking to stay in George Town. Located within walking distance of the city center, it offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
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4. Where to stay in Penang for relaxation & away from the crowds: Tanjung Bungah & Tanjung Tokong
Tanjung Bungah and Tanjung Tokong are great areas for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Penang. Both areas are located a short drive away from George Town, and they offer stunning beaches and iconic tourist attractions like the Snake Temple.
If you want to relax on the beach and stay near George Town, these spots are great, especially if you don't feel like going all the way to Batu Ferringhi's beaches.
Best area for:
Couples
Honeymooners
Families
Things to see & do in Tanjung Bungah
Being right on the beach, I suggest trying some of the water activities, such as kayaking and snorkelling. If you're feeling more adventurous, then some of the water sports centers along the beach offer banana boat rides and even parasailing.
Are you feeling hungry after a long day at the beach? Here are my top two favorite spots in the area for delicious food. If you need a quick snack on the go, try Hillside Uncle Burger, a local hotspot known for its juicy sandwiches. If you have more time to spare, head over to Let's Meat, an American-style restaurant.
Best hotels to stay in Tanjung Bungah
($$) Flamingo Hotel by the Beach
The Flamingo Hotel by the Beach is the perfect spot if you want to hang out by the outdoor pool and enjoy a good spa. The hotel offers a wide range of luxurious amenities, such as an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.
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($$) G Beach Front Villa
The G Beach Front Villa is a great mid-range spot for the whole family, thanks to its convenient location and modern amenities. It is situated within walking distance of the beach, giving you easy access to the beautiful sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters.
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($) Tanjung Point Residences
Tanjung Point Residences is the ideal hotel for budget travellers who want easy access to the beach and all of the amenities that come with a luxury stay. Located just a short drive away from George Town, this hotel provides comfortable and affordable accommodations in an unbeatable location.
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5. Where to stay in Penang on a budget & young student vibes: Sungai Dua
For all of you on a budget who want to experience more of a local vibe, Sungai Dua is the place for you. This up-and-coming area of Penang has been gaining much attention with its unique mix of quaint cafes, hipster bars, and vintage shops.
Located in the southern suburbs of George Town, Sungai Dua is populated by young and diverse locals. Here, you can find a range of affordable accommodation options and soak up the artsy atmosphere.
Best area for:
Backpackers
Explorers
Art lovers
Things to see & do in Sungai Dua
With the university being close by, you will find many interesting events and activities taking place in Sungai Dua. Make sure to check out the popular street art murals scattered around the area, or take a stroll down the streets for some shopping at the local boutiques.
If you're in Sungai Dua when the sun sets and the night market opens, make sure to visit the Super Tanker Food Court. One of my top picks from this food court is Aki Pancakes; their delightful-filled desserts are simply amazing, and they have made the place quite an institution in Sungai Dua.
Best budget accommodation in Penang
($$) U Hotel Penang
U Hotel Penang offers the perfect balance of convenience and comfort. The boutique hotel is located close to the university, giving visitors easy access to events, local food markets, and activities.
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($) M Qube Hotel
The two-star capsule hotel M Qube offers affordable accommodation for those on a budget and is within walking distance of the bustling streets of Sungai Dua. There are also plenty of dining and shopping options nearby, making it wonderfully convenient.
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($) Island Hostel
Island Hostel provides a great experience at an even better price. Located close to the beach and only a few minutes away from the center, it is perfect for those who want to explore Penang on a budget.
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6. Where to stay in Penang close to the airport: Bayan Lepas
Bayan Lepas, located in the south of Penang Island, is the closest area to the Penang International Airport and is an ideal place to stay if you want to be near the airport. It is known for its industrial estates and factories, as well as its numerous shopping malls that provide myriad activities.
If you're arriving late at the airport and looking for a place to stay, this area could be the best pick for you.
Best area for:
Business travellers
Stopovers
Things to see & do in Bayan Lepas
If you need to stay close to the airport in Bayan Lepas, it is highly recommended that you explore the area as well! Queensbay Mall is the largest shopping mall in Penang and is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing through the shops or catching a movie.
For those of you who want to be a little more active, then the Penang Golf Club is close by. It offers golfers the chance to challenge themselves at one of the oldest and most beautiful courses in Malaysia.
Best hotels to stay in Penang near the airport
($$$) Amari SPICE
The Amari SPICE offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of Bayan Lepas, making it one of my favorite places to stay in Penang. The luxury hotel offers hotel guests luxurious amenities, including a rooftop pool, fitness center, spa, and fine-dining restaurants.
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($$) Eastin Hotel
Eastin Hotel is a great mid-range option for those looking for comfort and convenience. The boutique hotel is conveniently located close to the airport and various shopping malls, making it ideal for business travellers or those with stopovers.
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($$) AC Hotel by Marriott
The AC Hotel by Marriott is a modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Bayan Lepas, providing guests with spacious rooms and excellent amenities. It is an ideal place for those who want to explore Penang or just need a hotel room close to the airport.
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Where to stay in Penang – Frequently Asked Questions
📅 How many days do I need in Penang?
The number of days you will need in Penang depends on what you are planning to do. Generally, two to three days are enough to explore the city center and its main attractions, while those who want to delve deeper into the culture or spend some time on the beach may require up to five to seven days.
📍 What’s the best area to stay in Penang?
It really depends on what type of traveller you are and what you want to do. For those looking for nightlife, George Town is a great pick; business travellers should opt for Bayan Lepas; while beach lovers will be happiest in Batu Feringghi.
❓ Is Penang safe to visit?
Yes, Penang is a safe destination for travellers; however, it is always advisable to remain cautious. Just be sure to avoid sketchy areas at night and carry minimal cash with you. With that in mind, you should have no problems enjoying your visit to this beautiful city.
🏨 Should I stay in Batu Ferringhi Beach or George Town?
This depends on your preferences. Batu Ferringhi Beach is great for beach lovers and those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center, while George Town offers a more cultural experience with plenty of attractions, restaurants, and nightlife options. Ultimately, it comes down to what you're looking for, but if you have the time, why don't you just do both?
🗺 Is Langkawi or Penang better?
That is a difficult question to answer, as both destinations have their own unique highlights and appeal. Langkawi is renowned for its beaches, while Penang offers visitors a mix of culture, history, nightlife, and shopping.
Where to stay in Penang – Final Words
Experiencing Penang's rich culture, enjoying some of the country's most beautiful beaches, or taking some time to relax.
I hope my little guide will make it easier for you to decide where to stay in Penang. Each of the areas I mentioned offers something unique, and I'm sure you will have a great time whichever one you choose!
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