12 Best Homestays In Penang, Malaysia - Updated 2024

Nicole
Nicole 
Updated
| 5 min read

Located in northwest Malaysia, Penang is a state comprised of an area on the mainland and Penang Island. As you can imagine, this coastal state is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy the sea and sun. It’s full of excellent beaches, including the popular Batu Ferringhi Beach and Tanjung Tokong Beach. Its wide array of famous food stalls also makes it a fantastic food paradise for your gastronomic journey. If you like to exercise, go for a hike in one of the area’s parks, such as the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest. And it’s got a great nightlife scene as well. QEII Penang offers drinks in a seaside location, and Slippery Senoritas Penang is a large club with a focus on music. Other notable places also include Penang Times Square, Rainbow Skywalk, Gurney Drive, and Gurney Plaza. There’s plenty to occupy your time during your stay in Penang. And to make things easier for you, we’ve created a list of the best homestays in Penang, Malaysia.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.

1. Vintage House (from USD 158)

Vintage House is a homestay in Penang Island that offers plush linens, WiFi, and a private bathroom in each of its non-smoking rooms. For guests who’ll come in large groups, there are family rooms available as well. Guests with cars can use its parking space for only 0.60 MYR (0.13 USD) per hour.

This homestay is also close to various points of interest. If you’re a foodie, a gastronomic experience awaits you at Village Fish Head BeeHoon and Urban Daybreak. For a refreshing ambience, you can head out to Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park. And if you want to unwind, explore nearby beaches such as Northam Beach and Tanjung Tokong Beach.

Stayed at this property?

Vintage House

Wifi Available

Address: 89&91 Victoria Street,10300 Penang.
382 meters (0.3 ft) from Chew Jetty

Parking Non-smoking rooms Laundry Family rooms Internet services Express check-in/check-out WiFi Available Free WiFi

2. Stay SongSong Beach Street (from USD 66)

Reward yourself with a refreshing experience at Stay SongSong Beach Street. This homestay features a cosy living room, an adequately equipped kitchen, and a dining area. The unit also has an air-conditioning unit, a washer, and WiFi.

If you want to explore the area, this property allows you to conveniently visit nearby attractions. If you want to reconnect with nature, Penang Botanic Gardens and Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm are the destinations to visit. Foodies must also not miss the chance to visit Wonderfood Museum located 0.55 kilometres (0.34 miles) from the rental. Boasting Malayan cuisine, this spot houses food replicas made using advanced Japanese techniques.

Stayed at this property?

Stay SongSong Beach Street

Wifi Available

Address: 334 Lebuh Pantai
297 meters (0.2 ft) from Chew Jetty

Bar Non-smoking rooms Internet services WiFi Available Free WiFi Non-smoking throughout Air conditioning WiFi available in all areas

3. Private room with a private bath

Here we have another private room which can sleep up to two guests. In the room, you’ll find a king-sized bed and an en suite bathroom. There’s also a minibar and fridge in the room. There’s WiFi throughout so you’ll be able to keep your friends and family updated during your stay. The room is located in central George Town, so you’ll be very near to plenty of attractions. Head to the Kimberly Street Food Night Market to try some local street food. For a unique experience, head to the Upside Down Museum, which gives visitors the feeling like they’re walking on walls and ceilings.

Stayed at this property?
George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
923 meters (0.6 ft) from Chew Jetty
384 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Private room in townhouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the ac and ceiling fan are quiet as well
very clean room with air con and fan to keep you cool in the heat
the breakfast bowls and smoothie were amazing
one should definitely check out their smoothie bowls for breakfast
the room is beautiful and homely with a nice oriental touch
Cleanliness:
a clean big room
room is clean and spacious
toilet as super clean as towel
room is very clean and spacious
clean and a lot of nice foods around
Host:
coln is a great host
great host good energy will return
coln is a very good host
the owner is friendly and nice as well
coln is a friendly and helpful host
Location:
location is also perfect
great location and quiet area
near to many attractions all are just walking distance away
good location to walk around town
the location was perfect though
Read more reviews

4. Stay in a charming pre-war house (from USD 19)

If you’re a solo traveler, then here we have a private room for one. It’s got a contemporary and industrial feel to it with metal accents, cement, and Instagram-worthy houseplants. Essential linens will be provided and guests will have access to a washing machine and a dryer. If you’re a cat person, you’ll be happy to know the host’s pet cats roam around the property. The room is located near cafes and nightlife entertainment options. You’ll also be near George Town’s famous street art, so be sure to check out the murals.

Stayed at this property?
George Town, Penang, Malaysia
343 meters (0.3 ft) from Chew Jetty
91 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 1 Guest 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 1

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
kampong open air toilet is the best
also really good air conditioning in the rooms
had a very nice view of the living room downstairs
love the open air shower room at top floor ;d
the view is amazing bedroom is indeed cosy and comfortable
Cleanliness:
the common areas are clean and comfortable as well
very cozy clean and relax place to stay
room is clean bed and pillows are comfortable
the house itself is so nicely done up and super clean
jamie’s place is a beautiful extension of penang rustic charm stylish sparkling clean and very comfy
Host:
she was a very welcoming host
jamie and alvin are great hosts who respond quickly to queries
jamie was a fabulous host
jamie and alvin are friendly
the host is very comforting and responsive
Location:
walking distance from all the main attractions in georgetown
the location is just perfect
the location is super convenient
prime location so you can walk easily to all the attractions in georgetown
excellent location for penang street art
Read more reviews

Penang Tour Guide

Ang Chin Boon

Ang Chin Boon

Hello...I am ANG. Licenced Tourist Guide by Ministry of Tourism Malaysia. I was born and raised in George Town, Penang. I just love Guiding !I have been actively doing guiding all these years. Drive my guests to interesting places in Penang Island, Sharing my knowledges & experiences of George Town. I wish their trip becomes story worth sharing.Will you be one of my esteemed guests ? Read more

Tours by Ang

Penang Tour Guide

Vincent Fong

Vincent Fong

I am a licensed tourist guide of Malaysia specialising in the English language, though I am also able to communicate in the Chinese dialects of Mandarin, Cantonese, Taishanese, Hokkien and my country's national language of Malay. I do all tours inbound of Penang island such as walking tours, food tours, drive tours, historical tours, hill & temples, etc. I am a tourist guide with passion an... Read more

Tours by Vincent

Penang Tour Guide

Hon Seng Phuah

Hon Seng Phuah

Hello. I am Hon Seng Phuah from Penang. I am a freelance tourist guide since 2013. My tour service includes Penang around island and George Town heritage walking tours. You may experience the Penang multi-culture and best foods like Penang assam laksa, nyonya cuisine, nasi kandar and to name a few, traditional business activities, colonial buildings, modern living city and last least the greene... Read more

Tours by Hon seng

Penang Tour Guide

Jenny Wan Kim Lim

Jenny Wan Kim Lim

Hi, I'm Jenny! I love showing people around Taiwan and Malaysia. I grew up in Penang and spend a lot of time in Tainan too. For the past few years, I've been a licensed tour guide for these 2 countries , sharing my passion for exploring. Being a guide isn't just a job to me, it's what I love doing. I enjoy finding hidden spots, introducing you to tasty local food, and making sure you have amazi... Read more

Tours by Jenny wan kim

5. Chic, private room (from USD 27)

Here we have a private room in the Urban Designer Collection. This high-quality property belongs to a designer who has brought an artistic touch to the living space. The bedroom can sleep two guests, and you’ll find chic pink walls and vintage-inspired furniture here. Should you need to get some work done during your stay, there’s WiFi and a laptop-friendly workspace. You’ll have access to house facilities such as the kitchen and living room during your stay. Since the home is situated in George Town, guests will be near plenty of local attractions.

Stayed at this property?
George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
2.3 km (1.5 mi) from Chew Jetty
67 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room look exactly like those photos
it's a outstanding homestay with great design comfortable and harmony feeling
nice bed to sleep
Cleanliness:
super clean and super cosy
the room and bathroom are very clean and stylish
clean room soft sheets would recommend
nice place to stay the room is very clean & quiet
the house is so nice and clean
Host:
the host was very helpful and responded immediately after we had questions
john is a friendly host
john is a fantastic host
the hosts are sweet and considerate
john is a very helpful and nice host
Location:
walking distance to nice food
good location to stay :)
it’s located in a really nice and quite neighbourhood
close to the centre spent a great day walking round george town
additional great location able to reach many attractions or places within 15 minuteshighly recommended
Read more reviews

6. A quiet and charming spot (from USD 53)

This large private room can accommodate up to two guests. In addition to sleeping space, guests will have their own bathroom and living room, as well as a pantry. The accommodation is decorated in a very contemporary and industrial style, making it a great backdrop for Instagram posts. There’s WiFi throughout, and there’s even a microwave and fridge so one can make simple meals or reheat leftovers. The cozy house is located in the heart of George Town. Guests will be perfectly situated for exploring Penang’s museums, such as the Wonderfood Museum, as well as various restaurants and street art.

Stayed at this property?
George Town, Penang, Malaysia
228 meters (0.2 ft) from Chew Jetty
22 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room is clean private specious and has all the modern convenience you need
Cleanliness:
the place is pretty clean for malaysian standard
love the loft’s stylish design space is clean and cozy
the place were great it’s clean we love it it’s very comfortable and truly felt like home
Host:
lovely hosts and stylish place
our host was very helpful and quick to respond to any questions
jamie was so friendly and quick to get back to all my questions
jamie was extremely attentive and always very responsive to messages
Location:
also the location is literally perfect
amazing stylish apartment in a great location
great little charming place right in the center of the heart of georgetown
this is a great place to stay really central and close to a lot of good jaunts in georgetown
i would recommend renting a bike on armenian street and cycling around the city
Read more reviews

7. Private room in a cottage (from USD 14)

Last but certainly not least is a private bedroom in a cozy home. Fit for two, this cozy accommodation om has a king-sized bed and a private bathroom. There’s also a lovely outdoor space where one can enjoy the views and sunshine. Guests are welcome to use the kitchen and its equipment, including the fridge and electric kettle. There’s also WiFi and a TV to watch. The home is located in a residential area of Tanjung Bungah. It’s a short drive from both the city center and Tanjung Tokong Beach. There’s plenty to enjoy in the neighborhood as well, including restaurants, pubs, and a park.

Stayed at this property?
Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
7.23 km (4.5 mi) from Chew Jetty
104 reviews   Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
an extra table given in the room would be even better
had an enjoyable and cozy stay
the room was very comfortable
Cleanliness:
the place was very clean and cozy
the house is very clean and well designed
nice clean place to stay when visiting
clean friendly helpful and considerate
highly recommended to stay the room is super clean towels are prepared as well
Host:
owner friendly and good service
great host very friendly host
great host as well
hosts are friendly enjoyed chatting with the hosts
expect the best from the host
Location:
location is good which only 20mins drive to either batu feringghi or george town
comfortable place to stay for our penang trip
a good place to have an escape from busy life
great neighbourhood in tanjung bungah and the house and room are sparkling neat and clean
this place is better than expected
Read more reviews

8. Central suite, perfect for families (from USD 42)

If you are traveling with family, this place is perfect for you. With two bedrooms, it can accommodate four guests. There’s parking on site, so if you are bringing lots of luggage, you won’t have to carry it far. You’ll have use of the shared kitchen, so if you like to cook, you can make your own meals. The homestay has got speedy WiFi, so you can keep connected during your stay. It’s situated in the heart of George Town, so you’ll be in the middle of all the action. There are plenty of restaurants as well as attractions like the Upside Down Museum in the vicinity.

Stayed at this property?
Georgetown, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
1.19 km (0.8 mi) from Chew Jetty
175 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in townhouse 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
everything else was perfect even the wifi works well
the place was extremely clean and cozy with all the amenities we’d needed and more
clean and comfortable with great amenities and relaxing spaces
a comfortable place to stay and enjoy the holiday with my family
Cleanliness:
very clean and safe
very clean and nice old house to stay
room was also very clean spacious and comfortable
house is really spacious and clean
the rooms were clean and confortable and the bathroom is just huuuuge
Host:
hosts were great as well
great and friendly host
mahani is an excellent host and contacted me the day before i left to confirm plans
good coms with host but realise it is the right hand side front door
as per previous reviews host clearly spent lots of thoughts on guests' comforts
Location:
the location was great
amazing location that is really in the heart of georgetown
nice place strategic location
very nice location within easy walking g distance to komtar and great food
outstanding elegant & spacious property so close to everything by the free bus
Read more reviews

9. Comfortable family home for two (from USD 26)

Up next we have a private room in a guest suite, perfect for the solo traveler or for a couple. It’s a calming space, with natural wood keeping the room cozy and comfortable. There’s also a sliding glass door that looks out onto the garden, so you can enjoy a nice view from your room. Guests will have a private bathroom and the hosts also provide you with a kettle and coffee. The homestay is located in George Town near plenty of food stalls and restaurants, so it’s perfect for foodies. Guests can also head to Nagore Square and try out some of the bars in the area.

Stayed at this property?
George Town, Penang, Malaysia
1.82 km (1.2 mi) from Chew Jetty
325 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Private room in guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
ac worked great bed is firm nice space
"one corner food" is very good for early breakfast
the room itself was cozy and comfortable appointed with thoughtful gestures like mineral water and an electric kettle
great room in penang it was a quick and cheap grab ride into the historic core of georgetown
the room is much better than i expected before as seen on picture
Cleanliness:
the room is very clean and tidy
the room is clean and comfortable
the room is clean and comfortable
the house is very clean and well maintained
clean and cosy room comfortable and accessible
Host:
the host was friendly nice and helpful
helpful host which answers your inquiries
the hosts were very communicative and welcoming
the hosts are very hospitable and helpful
hosts are very friendly and helpful
Location:
great location in town area
great location to explore georgetown from
great food options close by
the location was close to the old town and with walkable distance to good food places
the location is great it's about 30 minutes to city centre and komtar bus station by foot
Read more reviews

10. Modern and bright living quarters (from USD 24)

This is a private room in a large, communal home. The home is modern and bright with large windows and beautiful wood flooring. Guests have access to a private bathroom, so they can enjoy some privacy during their stay. Access is also available to the kitchen so one can cook their own meals. WiFi is also available throughout. If you plan to swim, you’ll be pleased to know that the beach is a short distance away. There’s also an excellent food market nearby if you’re interested in trying the local street food.

Stayed at this property?
Batu Feringghi, Penang, Malaysia
11.98 km (7.5 mi) from Chew Jetty
100 reviews   Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there is a private bathroom and good ac so i really felt comfortable
Cleanliness:
very clean and beautiful
very clean and artsy space
very spacious and clean rooms great communication and super friendly :)
room is clean have an private bathroom
their place is tastefully decorated and kept clean & comfortable
Host:
great host with great environment
kind host & luxury room
amazing place & amazing host
venus&willy are so nice hosts
very nice and helpful host
Location:
great location and a beautiful home
good location for enjoying beach and food
great location in walking distance from the beach and street market
for food lovers there is a big organic food store 20min away with the bus
highly recommended great location with affordable price
Read more reviews

11. A homestay with complimentary breakfast (from USD 19)

This is a bedroom with a private bathroom, perfect for a solo traveler or a couple. A simple breakfast will be provided for guests each morning, and they will also have access to a fridge, microwave, and toaster. All essential linens are provided, and there’s a washing machine if you need to do some laundry. The room is situated in the Air Itam area of Penang. It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors. Penang Hill is nearby which provides a great place to go hiking. One can even head to Kek Lok Si Temple to take in some local culture.

Stayed at this property?
Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia
6.77 km (4.3 mi) from Chew Jetty
163 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the wifi connection is good and the ac in the room works great as well
the room was perfect with a ceiling fan a/c a small desk and bed
the room was perfectly clean and equipped with ac fan good wifi and a comfortable bed
the airbnb is sparkling clean has a/c wifi shampoo towels and other bedding provided
we had a really nice stay in this spacious room placed in a lovely family house
Cleanliness:
sparkling clean toilet & bed
very clean for both room and bathroom
very comfort and clean room
the room was very clean and comfortable
the room itself was very clean and neat
Host:
jern and kai were the perfect hosts
friendly and hospitality host highly recomennded
great value and friendly host
both hosts were so kind caring and helpful as one could imagine
jern and his wife were perfect hosts
Location:
awesome place and good location:) highly recommended
it is located in a green friendly and quiet neighborhood at the foot of the penang hill
awesome people and very nice location is great
you will be walking distance from amazing street food penang hill and kek lok si
it is close to decent food places and to great nature
Read more reviews

12. Accommodation surrounded by gardens

We’ll start our list off with a three-bedroom homestay that can sleep up to seven guests. If you love nature, you’re in luck because the home is surrounded by tropical gardens and there’s a beautiful green space where you can relax. There’s free parking on site, so you won’t need to carry your luggage too far. And you can keep yourself entertained with WiFi and cable TV. There’s also a full kitchen where you can cook your own meals. The homestay is just a five-minute drive from the beaches, where you can enjoy the sun and sand. It’s also very near to plenty of dining options and the Straits Quay Mall.

Stayed at this property?

6.48 km (4.1 mi) from Chew Jetty
29 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 5 Beds 7 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 7

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
but the nights are cool with the aircon and we had comfortable sleeps
Cleanliness:
very clean and well-equipped place
place was very clean and tidy as well
the whole place is exceptionally clean and very homely
most importantly the house is really clean and tidy
this place is indeed beautiful well kept and clean
Host:
the host is a friendly and a very responsive host
indeed a pet friendly venue the foo homestay certainly made my friends and i at home
yvonne is a bubbly host with genuine intent to ensure comfort and being very hospitable
yvonne was very helpful when being asked for help
Location:
its located in a residential area therefore the nights are quiet and peaceful
very peaceful neighbourhood too
Read more reviews

Plenty to explore in Penang

Penang offers plenty of fun, from splendid beaches and museums to lively night markets. There are plenty of accommodation options, such as luxurious five-star hotels and homestays to choose from as well. Go for something ultra-modern in the city center, or pick something close to the beach. Book your favorite homestay today, and start planning your trip to Penang.

Frequently asked questions about homestays in Penang, Malaysia


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Nicole is an American expat living in London, England. When she moved from the midwest to London in 2012, it was her first time leaving the US. She has traveled steadily since then, making trips...Read more

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