Comprising mainland Seberang Perai and Penang Island, the Malaysian state of Penang – also known as the Pearl of the Orient – is home to a myriad of impressive historical landmarks that recall the region’s foreign-influenced past. Today it is a world renowned exotic holiday destination, offering a thrilling cocktail of eastern cultures, and in 2008 its pumping capital George Town was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
With its pristine beaches, sparkling waters, and laid back island feel coupled with a big city experience, you’re certain to depart Penang with memories to last a lifetime. And one way to help ensure you have a great time is to pick a great hotel. If you’ve got the budget for it, you might find yourself inspired by our list below showing five of the best luxury hotels that Penang has to offer.
The Light Hotel
FROM $57/ NIGHT
Located in the bustling Seberang Jaya neighbourhood at the southern bank of the Perai River, the Light Hotel is about a 30-minue drive from George Town, the colourful multicultural capital of Penang. Amenities at this modern and stylish hotel include an outdoor pool and fitness centre, a sauna and spa, an in-house restaurant serving local and Asian dishes, and a separate bar. There’s also 24-hour front desk and business facilities, and free Wi-Fi is available in all areas. Guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV, minibar, in-room safe, seating area, and private bathroom. For visitors arriving by air, Penang International Airport is just over 16 miles away.
Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
FROM $183/ NIGHT
For those who enjoy beach and ocean views, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa is unlikely to disappoint, thanks to its prime position overlooking Batu Feringgi Beach. If horticulture is more your thing, the hotel also has 30 acres of tropical gardens to admire and explore. Other notable features and amenities include two outdoor swimming pools and one dedicated adults pool, a 9-hole golf course, a well-equipped gym, a spa and a yoga pavilion. For culinary adventure, there’s a grill restaurant, a second restaurant and bar, a Spice Market Café and a deli. The spacious and well-appointed guest rooms offer picturesque sea or hillside views, and are decked out with wood carving and colourful fabrics. The hotel also offers a free daily shuttle service to George Town.
Vangohh Eminent Hotel & Spa
FROM $64/ NIGHT
Nestled in the Bukit Mertajam district of Seberang Perai, this luxury hotel features a chic bar, a restaurant specialising in Italian dishes, an outdoor pool, a sauna and a fitness centre. Guest rooms have a flat-screen TV, a hair dryer, a kettle and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletry products. There’s also a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi is available throughout the property. A choice of buffet or American breakfasts are served each morning. The vibrant beach resort of Batu Ferringhi, renowned for its watersports and seafood restaurants, is just under 30 miles away.
Eastern & Oriental Hotel
FROM €171/ NIGHT
If you’re keen to be positioned at the heart of Penang’s hustle and bustle, then this hotel in Georgetown is a fine choice. Housed within an impressive 19th century building, it boasts plenty of modern services and amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a choice of 6 dining options , a bar, 24-hour butler service, a fitness centre and bicycle rental services. Colonial-style guest rooms are decked out with wood furnishings and floral prints, and come with a safe, cable TV and large private bathrooms. Nearby attractions include Penang State Museum & Art Gallery, and the impressive Fort Cornwallis bastion fort, both of which are easily reachable on foot. Penang International Airport is just over 12 miles away.
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton
FROM $60/ NIGHT
Hilton have a well-earned global reputation for its hotels across the world, and this DoubleTree Resort has earned excellent guest reviews thanks to its prime location in the buzzing beach resort of Batu Ferringhi. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre, an in-house restaurant, and 24-hour front desk. The hotel is also kid-friendly, and there’s an indoor play area and children’s buffet too. Guest rooms feature a safety deposit box, refrigerator, electric kettle and private bathroom, and some also have a pretty terrace. For visitors coming in their own transport, there’s free private parking. The charming seaside suburb of Tanjung Bungah is less than 2 miles away and George Town is just over 6 miles away.