The 100-room, historic Eastern & Oriental Hotel has been in operation since the height of the British Empire when George Town was an important harbor and trading hub. Known locally as the E&O, its colonial pedigree sets it apart from other five-pearl hotels, but it also has a fully modern all-suite addition with private balconies and rainfall showers. The doormen in white knee socks and pith helmets help sell the period experience, and it is one of Malaysia's top romantic spots, thanks to its rich atmosphere, two elegant pools, and fine dining.

The four-pearl G Hotel Kelawai is a modern, swish property located between two shopping malls and a 10-minute drive from the city’s heritage center. The 208 sophisticated rooms have neutral-tone decor, desks, and floor-to-ceiling windows with lovely views in some, plus separate living areas in some. Also on-site are an all-day international buffet restaurant, outdoor bar with stunning views, rooftop infinity pool, gym, and a host of business facilities. In addition, Club Floor Benefits include free buffet breakfasts, evening cocktails, and personalized check-in. Travelers looking for luxury digs closer to the city’s heritage district might prefer Eastern & Oriental Hotel, which is set right on the waterfront and close to downtown attractions, plus has a spa. 

G Hotel Gurney is a four-pearl urban hotel located across the street from the beach. Decor throughout is simple but stylish, and the lobby has the most character with eye-catching accent features and furniture. The 312 modern and spacious guest rooms are sleek and understated; they offer modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and free minibars. This hotel's convenient location and tech-savvy meeting rooms attract many business travelers, but on-site features like an infinity pool, spa, and a chic lounge bar make it a popular spot for families, couples, and groups of friends, too. Beach lovers might prefer the luxurious Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa which offers direct beach access and free shuttles to George Town, but higher prices. 

The upscale Royale Chulan Penang offers a traditionally elegant stay in a convenient, central location close to popular sights and restaurants. Occupying an 1892-built heritage building, colonial architecture and locally inspired decor combine for a lovely design. The 179 rooms are attractive and outfitted with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs (with English-language channels), minibars, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning. Some rooms also have a balcony. On-site features consist of a well-reviewed full-service spa, Tea Room, outdoor swimming pool with tiny separate kiddy pool, and sufficiently equipped gym. On the downside, food at the all-day cafe receives mixed reviews, a few areas look like they could use an update, and some past guests have complained of noise issues. For something more modern, consider Chulia Mansion, which has a rooftop bar and hot tub, and free breakfast.

With its grand white exterior and stunning designer interiors, the four-pearl Macalister Mansion is a special merger of Penang's British Colonial legacy with a luxury lifestyle experience. Guests can live like pampered lords in the eight unique rooms, each with their own architectural quirks and commissioned artwork. Proper amenities can be found in appropriate places throughout the mansion, from inventive tasting menus in the Dining Room, to a stylish wine bar in The Cellar, to a sleek outdoor pool on The Lawn. It's a bit far from the main attractions, but this 100-year-old mansion is a destination unto itself.