Find the best Penang Hotels

Top reasons to visit Penang

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore the historic streets of George Town, renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant street art.
• Stunning Beaches: Relax at Batu Ferringhi, famous for its golden sands and water sports activities.
• Diverse Culinary Scene: Indulge in Penang's renowned food culture, featuring a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines.
• Natural Beauty: Discover the lush landscapes of Penang National Park, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Visit temples and mosques reflecting the island's diverse heritage, offering insight into local traditions.

Find great hotels in Penang

Penang offers a diverse array of accommodation options, from modern hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a beachfront retreat, a family-friendly venue, or facilities for business travel, you'll find the perfect base to explore this vibrant destination. With numerous choices available, including the best hotels in Penang, you're sure to discover a stay that complements your holiday experience.

• JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La: This 4-star hotel offers a contemporary and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for families and business travellers alike. Located in the heart of Penang, it is well-rated for its modern amenities, including a dedicated children's pool and babysitting services. Guests can enjoy the convenience of free cribs and a hearty breakfast designed for younger guests. With a guest rating of 8.8, JEN Penang Georgetown is well-suited to those seeking a blend of comfort and practicality during their stay.
• Eastern And Oriental Hotel: A distinguished 5-star establishment, the Eastern And Oriental Hotel stands as a testament to Penang’s rich history and charm. Nestled within a national historic building, this hotel is perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in the local heritage. Its high guest rating of 9.2 reflects the quality of service and amenities, including free cribs and available babysitting services. Guests can start their day with a breakfast tailored for children, ensuring a delightful experience for families in a captivating setting.
• Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang: This luxurious 5-star resort is set against the backdrop of Penang's stunning beaches, making it a prime choice for families seeking relaxation and adventure. With a guest rating of 9.0, the resort offers direct beach access and a variety of amenities tailored for children, including a free kids’ club and supervised childcare options. Parents can also take advantage of in-room babysitting services, allowing for a peaceful getaway while ensuring their little ones are well cared for.

Where to stay in Penang

Penang offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions, vibrant shopping experiences, and stunning architectural gems. From the bustling streets of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the serene beaches of Batu Ferringhi, there's something for everyone. Explore the local markets, savour exquisite cuisine, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the friendly locals. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Penang promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

• George Town: George Town, the capital city of Penang, is a vibrant urban hub steeped in rich history and culture. Its geographic location along the northeastern coast of Penang Island makes it a convenient base for exploring the region. Visitors are drawn to George Town for its eclectic mix of family-friendly activities, business opportunities, and city-themed experiences. Notable attractions include its historic sites, bustling shopping centres, and the picturesque esplanade. The city’s unique architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases a blend of colonial, Chinese, and Indian influences, making it a delightful area to wander and explore.
• Downtown George Town: Nestled within the heart of George Town, Downtown George Town is a lively neighbourhood known for its dynamic atmosphere and cultural richness. This area sees a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peak travel times in January and during the summer months. Downtown George Town offers an array of family-oriented, business, and city-themed experiences. The proximity to shopping malls, local markets, and historic landmarks such as the iconic Fort Cornwallis enhances the travel experience. Strolling through this neighbourhood reveals a tapestry of street art, local cuisine, and cultural festivals, making it an essential stop for any visitor.
• Batu Ferringhi: Located along the northern coast of Penang, Batu Ferringhi is a popular neighbourhood renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. This coastal area attracts tourists seeking family fun, city-based activities, and beachside relaxation. Peak visitor numbers occur in August to September and December, making it a bustling destination. With a range of shopping centres and local eateries nearby, Batu Ferringhi also offers easy access to local attractions such as theme parks and water sports. The beautiful sandy beaches, lined with palm trees, provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore.

Things to do in Penang

Shopping

Located in the heart of George Town, Gurney Plaza offers a mix of local and international brands, perfect for fashion enthusiasts. For a more traditional experience, explore the bustling Chowrasta Market, where you can find unique local handicrafts and delicious snacks to take home.

Recreation

At the Bodhi Spa in Penang, indulge in rejuvenating treatments inspired by traditional healing practices, surrounded by tranquil gardens. For a unique experience, visit the Chi Spa at Shangri-La, which features holistic therapies and wellness programmes tailored to restore balance and harmony.

Adventure

Explore the lush landscapes of Penang National Park, where you can hike scenic trails leading to pristine beaches and waterfalls. Experience the thrill of zip-lining at Adventure Zone, and don't miss the fun of cycling around the historic streets of Georgetown to discover its vibrant street art.

Nightlife

In Penang, explore the lively atmosphere of Upper Penang Road with its vibrant bars and clubs, perfect for a night out. For a more laid-back vibe, visit Gurney Drive, where you can savour delicious street food while enjoying the sea breeze and local entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Penang

To save money on your trip to Penang, consider visiting during the cheaper months of March or October to November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Thursday is the least expensive day to stay, while Sundays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find affordable accommodation that suits your needs, and consider booking a package to combine flights, hotels, and activities for further savings. Additionally, explore free attractions and use the public transport system to minimise travel costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Penang are March and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Penang about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Penang is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay in Penang is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in Penang with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Penang

Penang offers a delightful blend of family-friendly, city-themed, and business-oriented vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions such as temples, beaches, and mosques, catering to those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and urban exploration. Noteworthy destinations include the Penang Museum, Penang Road, Penang Island, and Penang National Park, making it an ideal spot for an enriching getaway.

• Georgetown UNESCO Historic Site: Explore the vibrant streets of Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colonial architecture and rich cultural tapestry. Wander through the colourful shophouses and street art, while immersing yourself in the unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences that characterise this historic area.
• Pinang Peranakan Mansion: Step into the opulent world of the Peranakan culture at this beautifully restored mansion. Marvel at the intricate decor, antique furniture, and fascinating artefacts that tell the story of the Straits Chinese community, offering a glimpse into their customs and lifestyle.
• Penang City Hall: Admire the grand architecture of this historic civic building, which showcases British colonial influences. Surrounded by lush gardens, the City Hall serves as a picturesque backdrop for photographs and provides insights into Penang’s administrative history.

Best time to go to Penang

The best time to visit Penang is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High