Hotels in George Town

Secrets of George Town: Where Temples Whisper and Beaches Beckon

Discover the enchanting charm of George Town, Penang, Malaysia, a UNESCO World Heritage site that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity. Stroll through its vibrant streets adorned with fascinating shophouses, visit ornate temples, and explore intriguing museums that tell the story of its rich past. Indulge in mouthwatering street food and experience the lively atmosphere of Little India. From the stunning coastal views at Batu Ferringhi to the captivating street art that adorns Old Georgetown, this cultural gem invites travelers to immerse themselves in its unique heritage and vibrant local life. For the best hotel rates in George Town, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in George Town

Some of the best places to stay in George Town are Tanjung Bungah, Bayan Baru and Bandar Perda. Tanjung Bungah, Bayan Baru, and Bandar Perda are fantastic destinations in Penang, each offering unique experiences. Tanjung Bungah is known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, making it ideal for relaxation. Bayan Baru features a mix of modern amenities and local culture, perfect for families. Bandar Perda provides a more local vibe with affordable options. For first-time visitors, Tanjung Bungah is the best choice due to its stunning coastal scenery and range of accommodations, from upscale hotels to cozy stays. Here are some of the best hotels in George Town that our travelers love:

1. Tanjung BungahOpens in a new window: Tanjung Bungah is an ideal destination for families and couples, offering a beautiful beachfront and easy access to attractions like Gurney Drive and Penang Hill. This area is perfect for outdoor activities and dining, making it a vibrant spot for visitors. For accommodation, consider Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, PenangOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star resort that provides direct beach access and numerous family-friendly amenities, including a playground and babysitting services. Another excellent choice is G Hotel GurneyOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel that caters to business and family travelers with multiple meeting rooms and a children’s pool. Additionally, G Hotel KelawaiOpens in a new window offers a lavish experience with essential business facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for both leisure and work.
2. Bayan BaruOpens in a new window: Bayan Baru is a family-friendly area that features shopping and entertainment options, such as Queensbay Mall and KOMTAR. The location is perfect for those looking to explore Penang while enjoying modern conveniences. Hotel Equatorial PenangOpens in a new window is a 5-star hotel that provides a business-friendly atmosphere with golf facilities and child-friendly amenities, including a kids' pool. Alternatively, Lexis Suites PenangOpens in a new window offers luxurious beachfront access and top-notch business amenities, while Olive Tree HotelOpens in a new window presents a solid choice for business travelers with comprehensive facilities.
3. Bandar PerdaOpens in a new window: Bandar Perda is a great family-oriented area, offering a mix of shopping and cultural experiences. Close to attractions like KOMTAR and AEON Mall, it's ideal for those seeking convenience. Iconic Hotel PenangOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that offers family-friendly amenities and business services, making it suitable for various travelers. For more upscale options, Ixora HotelOpens in a new window boasts extensive business facilities and recreational areas for kids. Lastly, The Light Hotel PenangOpens in a new window provides a luxurious stay with a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and excellent business services, ensuring a relaxing and productive visit.

What to do in George Town

George Town offers a vibrant mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a perfect three-day getaway. Explore scenic beaches, lush parks, and intriguing museums while enjoying activities like shopping, walking, and water sports. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and diverse experiences that this unique destination has to offer. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to George Town:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Ninth Emperor God Temple, a serene place steeped in tradition, where you can appreciate the intricate architecture and vibrant decorations. Next, head over to the Penang Bird Park, a delightful spot that showcases a variety of exotic birds in a lush, natural setting—perfect for bird lovers and families alike. Conclude your day by visiting the Tow Boo Kong Temple in Butterworth, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and perhaps catch a glimpse of traditional ceremonies.
• Day 2: Start your day at St. Anne's Church, a stunning place of worship known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment, ideal for reflection. Afterward, make your way to Mengkuang Dam, where you can enjoy scenic views and take a leisurely walk around the reservoir. Wrap up your day at Bukit Langkap, a fantastic viewpoint where you can soak in panoramic vistas of the area, especially stunning during sunset.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at the Penang Bridge East End, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the water. Following that, visit the Negeri Pulau Pinang Stadium, a local sports hub where you might catch a game or event. Finally, head over to Bukit Batu Kawan, a great spot for hiking enthusiasts, offering trails that reveal the natural beauty of Penang and a perfect way to unwind after your busy trip.

5 tips to find a great George Town hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit George Town is during February, March, and November when hotel prices are more affordable. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure better rates. Domestic travelers should aim to book at least eight months ahead for the best deals. A stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended to fully enjoy the great value for money that George Town offers, including its noteworthy temples, monuments, and museums. This way, you can explore the city's rich culture and history without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to George Town, there are great opportunities available. To explore potential discounts on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover lower rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you maximize your chances to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in George Town.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in George Town is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like taxis, buses, or bicycles to explore the area while keeping costs more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in George Town and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in George Town

Here are some popular dishes in George Town, Penang, Malaysia:

• Char Kway Teow: A popular stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, prawns, Chinese sausage, eggs, and bean sprouts, all cooked over high heat to achieve the perfect smoky flavor. Enjoy it from street vendors for an authentic experience.
• Nasi Kandar: A fragrant rice dish served with a variety of curries and side dishes, allowing for personal customization. It's a beloved meal among locals, often enjoyed late at night in bustling eateries.
• Laksa: A spicy noodle soup with a rich coconut milk base, typically featuring prawns or chicken and garnished with fresh herbs. Each stall has its own twist, making it a delightful dish to sample from different vendors.

Best time to go to George Town

George Town experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 79.7°F (26.5°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.8°F (28.2°C). November is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in George Town, July, September, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, February, May, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.