Hotel Penaga is one of George Town's best-regarded boutique hotels, set in restored heritage buildings in the UNESCO core near Hutton Lane. It combines the proportions of the old shophouses, with their high ceilings, timber and tiles, with contemporary design and a good deal of art, and the result is intimate and calm. The hotel is in the Lebuh Muntri area, close to the street art lanes, the Blue Mansion and many of the best cafes, which makes it an easy base for a walking holiday. Rooms vary in size and style, and it is worth reading the descriptions to choose between smaller rooms and larger suites. The hotel is popular with couples and design-minded travellers who want character rather than a large resort.
Location and getting around: the hotel sits in the old town grid, so many sights can be reached on foot. Khoo Kongsi, Armenian Street and the Blue Mansion are within about ten minutes, and Chinatown's hawker stalls and Little India's restaurants are close. For Fort Cornwallis, the Clan Jetties, Komtar and the Kek Lok Si Temple, use a taxi or ride-hailing app, which are cheap and quick in George Town. Streets are narrow, so cars cannot always pull up at the door, and the hotel can advise on drop-off arrangements.
Rooms and who it suits: heritage conversions mean that rooms have a mix of layouts, with some featuring original tiles, timber and high ceilings. This charm sometimes comes with compact bathrooms and stairs rather than lifts, so check accessibility if it matters. Couples, solo travellers and design lovers will enjoy it, while families with young children might prefer a larger hotel with a pool. Heritage buildings are not always fully soundproof, so request a quieter room away from the street if you are a light sleeper.
Good to know: the hotel does not have an official site that we could verify, so this listing uses its Expedia page for rates and availability. Check what is included in your rate, such as breakfast, before booking, and confirm check-in arrangements if you arrive late. The old town is lively at night, with hawker stalls and bars open late, so expect some ambient noise in the evenings. Book ahead for festival periods such as Chinese New Year and the George Town Festival, when the town fills up quickly.
Why stay here
- ✓Restored heritage shophouses
- ✓Art-filled boutique interiors
- ✓Walk to street art lanes
- ✓Close to the Blue Mansion
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Cafes and hawker stalls nearby
- ✓Quiet old-town location
Good questions
Is Hotel Penaga close to the main sights?+
Yes, it is in the UNESCO core, a short walk from the street art lanes, Khoo Kongsi and the Blue Mansion. Other sights are a short taxi or ride-hailing trip away.
Is it suitable for families?+
It suits couples and solo travellers best. Families with young children may find stairs and compact rooms limiting, so check room details before booking.
How do I get there from the airport?+
Penang International Airport is on the southern end of the island, about a forty-five minute drive. Taxis and ride-hailing apps run directly to the old town.
