If you’re looking for a destination that combines some of the most fascinating culture in Asia with palm-lined beaches, you can’t really do much better than Penang! Georgetown, the capital of this southwestern Malaysian island is the second-largest city in Malaysia.
It’s a delightful concoction of dazzling skyscrapers, old shophouses, and even hiking if you head out to Penang Hill, which looms over the city.
If you want to stay somewhere with plenty of character and charm, then it might be best to consider rentals in Penang. Rather than hotels or hostels, you can really get something that perfectly suits you – whatever your travel style. Some of the Airbnbs in Penang include chic studios with sea views, pleasant homestays which give an authentic experience, and even an Iron Man experience!
Rather than letting you trawl through the countless pages of Airbnb, we’ve decided to help you out. That’s right, we’ve put together a list of the 15 best Airbnbs in Penang. We’ve taken into account several different budgets, travel styles, and personalities. So, let us help you make the most of your holiday and take the stress out of planning with our extensive list!
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Penang
Chic Urban Studio Suite
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Access to Gym and Pool
- > 24-hour Security
Large central room with nice host
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Access to communal areas
- > Washing machine available
Romantic Scandinavian Style Suite
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Balcony with views of Komtar
- > 60 inch TV
Kimberley Night Market Private Room
- > $$
- > 5 Guests
- > Fully equipped kitchen
- > Bright and colourful
Batu Ferringhi bungalow with pool
- > $$$$
- > 16 Guests
- > Swimming pool + inflatable unicorn
- > Basketball and badminton courts
Why stay in an Airbnb?
- Local Experience: Whether your host is a private owner or a business, they’ll be able to give you the top tips on what to do nearby. That doesn’t just go for Penang, but for everywhere in Malaysia.
- Unique properties: Airbnb has every kind of property you could think of. There’s even a ‘unique stays’ search function, where you can find your dream property on the site.
- Affordability: Airbnbs are considerably cheaper than an equivalent hotel – and you won’t have any hidden charges from the minibar either! Airbnbs are possibly the best option for backpackers in Malaysia that need to keep the costs low.
- Safety: It might seem a little weird staying in someone’s house; however, both hosts and guests are vetted by Airbnb reviews to ensure the safety of both. Malaysia is overall safe, and the Airbnb booking security just adds a little extra to it.
- Airbnb Experiences: It’s not all about where to stay; looking for things to do in Penang? There’s no better way to do that than with Airbnb Experiences. We’ll show you some of our favourites.
You should always have emergency cash hidden on you – pick up this awesome security belt with its hidden pocket before you travel, it’s perfect for hiding money, a passport photocopy.
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Penang
Ok, ready for the main course? There’s no shortage of fantastic places to stay in Penang, so make sure you pay close attention to the descriptions when booking accommodation. Or better yet, just keep reading – we already did the hard work for you. It’s almost too easy!
Overall Best Value Airbnb in Penang | Chic Urban Studio Suite
- $
- Access to pool and gym
- 4 Guests
- 24-hour security
Let’s begin our list of the best Airbnbs in Penang with somewhere that ticks several boxes – whatever your travel style! This cool and chic studio apartment is in one of the best locations in town – it’s just 5 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage central area of George Town.
Not only that, it’s got incredible views of the sea, the city, and at the right time of day, the sunset! In the building, you can also take advantage of a pool and a gym, so you’re fitness regime doesn’t have to suffer. And, you can work of all the calories from the mouth-watering street food from the night market!
Best Budget Airbnb in Penang | Bright ground floor private room
- $
- Great Location
- 2 Guests
- Homely atmosphere
The cost of travel in George Town is affordable for most travellers, and there are some great budget Penang Airbnbs. However, this one stands out above the rest. This brightly coloured room is in the historic UNESCO listed centre of the city, so you won’t have far to see all the cool shophouses and pick up souvenirs at the night market. If you’re a digital nomad trying to tighten their budget while travelling Malaysia, this is a great option as you’ve got a laptop-friendly workspace and quick Wi-Fi. It’s also a good option for a couple, as there’s a spacious double bed.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Penang start from $6USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Perfect Short Term Rental for Digital Nomads | Twin loft room by night market
- $
- Laptop friendly workspace
- 3 Guests
- House within a house
Welcome to one of the quirkiest Airbnbs in Penang! This house within a house is the perfect space for a digital nomad as it’s got a laptop-friendly workspace and Wi-Fi. Not only do you have your own private space, but there’s also a fully equipped kitchen that you’re welcome to use. Although, it’s not always necessary with the number of places to eat and drink on your doorstep!
The only downside is because it’s just 10 metres away from Kimberley Night Market, it can be a bit noisy. However, that’s nothing a good set of earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can’t block out.
Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers | Oriental Double with Private Bath
- $
- Laptop friendly workspace
- 2 Guests
- Ground floor juice and smoothie bar
Plenty of people will tell you as a solo traveller that you should opt to stay in a hostel in Penang. But if you don’t want to stay in a smelly, noisy dorm, we don’t blame you! A much better option is this homestay in Penang – a perfect option for solo travellers. The friendly hosts even have a juice and smoothie bar on the ground floor – the perfect place to pick up a tasty drink before exploring the historic centre of George Town! Your room has useful amenities such as air conditioning, a mini-fridge, and a hairdryer.
Pssssst! Not picked the perfect travel backpack yet? The Broke Backpacker team has tried out over thirty backpacks this year! Our favourite carry on backpack is the Nomatic Travel Bag.
Read our full review!
Best Airbnb in Penang for Nightlife | Garden House Heritage Home
- $$$
- Self check-in
- 5 Guests
- Indoor swings!
North Eastern Georgetown is one of the best places on the island for nightlife, so it’s only sensible that you pick your Penang apartment there. And what a great place this is – a heritage house that’s been tastefully updated – it’s even got indoor swings! There’s space for up to 5 guests too, so if you’re a group of mates looking to hit the town, this is definitely one of the top options in town.
Best Short Term Rental for Couples | Romantic Scandinavian Style Suite
- $
- Balcony with views of Komtar
- 2 Guests
- 60 inch TV
Usually, we’d recommend an entire place for couples, but we’re willing to make an exception for somewhere this good. This Penang Airbnb is a private room in someone else’s home, but the romantic Scandinavian style suite gives you plenty of comfort and space to make your stay in George Town memorable. As well as a super king bed, you’ve got a 60 inch smart TV where you can enjoy your favourite TV series or film together. If that’s not on the cards, you can always enjoy the views of Komtar from the balcony!
Best Homestay in Penang | Large central room with nice host
- $
- Access to communal areas
- 2 Guests
- Washing machine available
Looking for an authentic experience that’s kind to your wallet? Then why not stay with a local. Here’s one of the best homestays in Penang – a room right in the centre with a nice host! In fact, your host is so nice that they’ll happily give you access to their communal areas. If you’re wondering, that includes the kitchen, living room, dining room, and balcony. There’s even a washing machine available for a small fee. However, if you’re planning a longer-term stay, you get to use it free of charge!
Runner Up Homestay in Penang | Out of the Ordinary
- $
- Great location
- 2 Guests
- Complimentary toiletries
There are so many awesome homestays in Penang, we couldn’t just give you one to pick from! This place is called out of the ordinary, and it’s certainly a cut above your average apartment. It’s especially good if you’re a cat lover, as the host has a couple that you’ll have a chance to meet. Lovely and reassuring if you’re a long term traveller missing your kitty. You won’t find the cats in your room, but you will find complimentary toiletries, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Lovely!
Amazing Luxury Airbnb in Penang | Iron Man Experience Batu Ferringhi
- $$$$
- Fully equipped kitchen
- 24 Guests
- KTV Room with Projector
Listen up superhero movie fans! This totally awesome luxury Penang Airbnb is exactly why people use this site. Not only do you have a lifesize model of Iron Man in your room (because why wouldn’t you want him watching over you as you sleep?), but you’ve got a KTV room with a projector. So, lots of fun karaoke for you and an almost infinite number of friends. Well… 24! Although it’s super fun being in the house, it’s right on Batu Ferringhi beachfront and close to several others of Penang’s beachside points of interest. So, start your day with a race down to those warm waters!
Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Penang | Batu Ferringhi bungalow with pool
- $$$$$$$$
- Swimming pool with inflatable unicorn
- 16 Guests
- Basketball and badminton courts
Believe it or not, the Iron Man Penang Airbnb isn’t the most ridiculous or ostentatious property you can find. Another awesome Airbnb in Batu Ferringhi, you can race across the pool on inflatable unicorns. If you want to play sport but not get wet, there’s a basketball court, a badminton court, and a pool table. So, there are no excuses for piling the weight on with delicious street food! If you’re looking for a more chill time, you can enjoy the DVD home theatre system – which is linked to a 60 inch TV!
Best Airbnb in Penang for Families | Kimberley Night Market Private Room
- $$
- Fully equipped kitchen
- 5 Guests
- Bright and colourful
Looking for a family-friendly apartment? This Penang Airbnb is suitable for all ages, but especially those who are travelling with young kids. There are plenty of toys and games, and it’s a pretty innovative and cool design which really makes the most of the space. It’s also right in the centre of George Town’s historic centre, so you don’t have to drag the kids too far to start checking off your itinerary while visiting Penang. If you’d rather not head out to the night market, stay safe indoors and whip up a delicious meal in the fully equipped kitchen!
Best Airbnb in Penang for a Group of Friends | Maison Muda Designer House
- $$$$
- Fabulous back courtyard
- 8 Guests
- Mezzanine with awesome views
You’ve seen all those beautiful shophouses in Georgetown, you might have even bought some souvenirs from one of them. However, have you stayed in one? Now’s your chance with this awesome Penang apartment! Right in the centre of the UNESCO zone, this is the perfect flash-packer pad, with space for you and 7 of your best pals. The third-floor mezzanine gives you some really lovely views, while the courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee or breakfast!
Best Airbnb in Batu Ferringhi | Apartment by Batu Ferringhi Beach
- $$$
- Direct access to beach
- 5 Guests
- Access to gym, pool, and playground
So, you’ve already seen a couple of crazy Batu Ferringhi Airbnbs. Here’s something a little less OTT, but still pretty damn cool. One of the major draws of this area of Malaysia is the stunning beaches with their turquoise waters, and this place gives you direct access! If you’d prefer not to get sand between your toes, you can always jump in the swimming pool or go for a workout in the gym. If you’re travelling with kids, they’re sure to love the playground too! You’re staying in a superhost’s property, so rest assured you’ll be taken care of!
Another Great Apartment in Batu Ferringhi | Studio Suite with ensuite bathroom
- $$
- Complimentary breakfast
- 2 Guests
- Laptop friendly workspace
We promise this is the last place we’re going to show you in Batu Ferringhi! You’ve already seen places that can accommodate big groups, but here’s something more suitable for a solo traveller or a couple. This awesome suite has a minibar and a TV, not to mention a complimentary breakfast! Digital nomads will appreciate the laptop friendly workspace, while those who have their own transport will be grateful for the free parking space!
Top Value Airbnb in Georgetown | Roti Bakar Georgetown homestay
- $$
- Close to hawker centres
- 3 Guests
- Cosy and comfortable
Okay, we know you’ve seen an awful lot of George Town apartments, but we’re going to round off our list of the best Airbnbs in Penang with just one more. This homestay offers an authentic experience of George Town, and provides easy access to the hawker centres where you’ll find the best street food. It’s cosy, comfortable, and you’re actually living in a piece of history! It’s one of the few Shanghai plaster buildings left in town.
What to Pack for your Penang Airbnb
Our Broke Backpacker editors have put together a shortlist of their Airbnb essentials, which you can find here.
1. Active Roots Microfiber Towel: If you don’t want to trust your Airbnb to provide clean towels, it’s always smart to bring your own. Problem is, most towels take up a lot of space in your suitcase. The Active Roots Microfiber Towel is made of super-light material, which hardly takes up any space. Plus, it’s incredibly comfortable and quick-drying. Great for a day around the pool or at the beach. The material is antibacterial, so it won’t smell funny, even on long holidays.
2. TRTL Travel Pillow: Being on a plane or bus for a long time, especially overnight, can be pure torture. Instead of arriving at your Airbnb with red eyes and a grumpy mood, you should have a look at this TRTL Travel Pillow – it actually fulfils all of its promises. The ergonomic design supports your neck and head in a comfortable and safe way. Getting some proper sleep, even while sitting upright, will be a massive relief on your next holiday.
3. Active Roots Toiletry Bag: To prevent the loss of your toothpaste in the depths of your bag, you should get a hold of the Active Roots Toiletry Bag. With large compartments, see-through and enclosed sections, you can have all of your stuff in the right spot, easy to find and accessible at all times.
4. Travel Journal: Write down your plans, thoughts, inspirations or experiences – the list doesn’t stop here. Journaling while travelling is a great way to keep memories, calm down and reflect after a long day, or simply doodle around while waiting at the airport. Try it out yourself with this elegant Travel Journal.
5. Universal Travel Adapter: Don’t land in a new country without the right adapter to charge your devices. This can be a logistical nightmare as your phone runs out of juice but you still need to plot a course to your rental. This universal travel adapter covers 150 countries, and you’ll always be able to charge your phone (and 4 more devices simultaneously), no matter where you are in the world.
6. Carbon Monoxide Detector: Many homes already have CM detectors hardwired in, but regulation hasn’t caught up to technology in some areas. Most accommodations are not obligated to install protections or monitors, which is why owning your own portable device comes in very handy. The waterproof and long-lasting monitor will send out visual and audible alarms, before the carbon monoxide reaches a dangerous level.
Final Thoughts on Penang Airbnbs
So, that concludes our list of the best Airbnbs in Penang. We’re sure you’ll have found something that perfectly suits your travel needs – as there’s an option whatever your budget, style, or personality is!
Whether you want an apartment right on Batu Ferringhi beach, a friendly and charming homestay, or a crash pad right among all the action of the night market, we’ve made sure to find something suitable for you! In fact, we might have overloaded you with awesome choices. If that’s the case, not to worry.
Just take a deep breath, relax, and scroll back up to our favourite Airbnb in Penang. The Chic Urban Studio Suite is the perfect combination of a great location, value for money, and cool stylish design. You can’t go wrong!
Now that we’ve hopefully made planning your trip to Penang a lot easier, all that’s left is for us to wish you an awesome vacation. We hope you have a great time!
And don’t forget to take out Travel Insurance for your trip! I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.
If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads. To find out why I use World Nomads, check out my World Nomads Insurance review.
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