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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!
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Penang for One Night
- The UNESCO Listed Center is 5 minutes away
- The beach is also a short stroll
- Makes a great base for exploring the region
Is this amazing Penang Airbnb booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our other favorite properties below!
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Penang
 | Overall Best Value Airbnb in PenangOverall Best Value Airbnb in PenangChic Urban Studio Suite
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 | Best Homestay in PenangBest Homestay in PenangLarge central room with nice host
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 | Best Airbnb for Couples in PenangBest Airbnb for Couples in PenangRomantic Scandinavian Style Suite
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 | Best Airbnb for Families in PenangBest Airbnb for Families in PenangKimberley Night Market Private Room
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 | Best Luxury Airbnb in PenangBest Luxury Airbnb in PenangBatu Ferringhi bungalow with pool
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Why stay in an Airbnb?
Local Experience
Airbnb gives travellers the unique opportunity to live “like a local.” If you decide to book a shared home with your host, you get to look inside a local’s daily life, learn about their culture and you might even be able to taste some traditional home-cooked meals.
There are few other ways short-term travellers can get into the homes and lives of locals, so this is a great way to create new connections. As an added bonus, you’ll contribute to the local economy and build relationships.
Reach out to your host with questions about things to do or where to eat and they will be happy to help out and give you the best spots and tips. Don’t be shy, Airbnb hosts are known for their caring and open hospitality.
And who knows? Next time you might be staying as a friend and not as a paying guest! (No promises though.)
Affordability
Travelling doesn’t have to be expensive!
Whether you are a backpacking Malaysia on a shoestring budget or a businessperson expatting through their golden years, Airbnb gives you the opportunity to find affordable and unique places, experiences, and recently added to the list: restaurants. From 12-bedroom villas to the basic shared-room hostel, you will be able to find the right place for your needs among the six million Airbnb homes that have been listed worldwide.
If you’re on a budget, just put the price range you are willing to pay for the night into the filter and the platform only shows you rentals that match your expectations. Some of the larger rentals charge per night instead of per person. This gives bigger travel groups the option of staying together at the same place while saving a lot of money. No more expensive single hotel rooms – just split the bill with your friends at the end of your trip and everyone will benefit!
In addition to that, long term guests can also enjoy weekly and monthly discounts. But no matter how long you are planning to stay, you can always be sure you’ll find the right and affordable place on Airbnb.
Safety
Are Airbnb reviews legit? Airbnb wants every guest to be safe so they created a world-class review system where tenants are encouraged to be honest about their experience because it stays invisible until the reviewing period has locked.
Guests are given the power to tell the truth and “make or break” the place they stayed at since the platform forbids the owner to change or remove the review. Every comment you can read on Airbnb is based on finished stays and experiences. Plus, some hosts often depend on the money they earn renting their property and one bad experience from any guest would devastate their income. It might be a bleak perspective, but hey, that’s something of a guarantee you’ll be cared for!
Airbnb also has a 24/7 emergency line with someone ready to assist you. In the worst case, Airbnb will provide a driver or make sure you find a safe place. If you choose this booking platform, you will always be in good hands, without any doubt.
You should always have emergency cash hidden on you – pick up this awesome security belt with its hidden pocket before your next trip. It’s perfect for hiding cash, card and 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
- $
- 4 Guests
- Access to pool and gym
- 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
- $
- 2 Guests
- Great location
- 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
- $
- 3 Guests
- Laptop friendly workspace
- 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
- $
- 2 Guests
- Laptop friendly workspace
- 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
- $$$
- 5 Guests
- Self check-in
- 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
- $
- 2 Guests
- Balcony with views of Komtar
- 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
- $
- 2 Guests
- Access to communal areas
- 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
- $
- 2 Guests
- Great location
- 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
- $$$$
- 24 Guests
- Fully equipped kitchen
- KTV Room with Projector
Listen up superhero movie fans! This totally awesome luxury Penang Airbnb is exactly why people use this site. Not only do you have a lifesize model of Iron Man in your room (because why wouldn’t you want him watching over you as you sleep?), but you’ve got a KTV room with a projector. So, lots of fun karaoke for you and an almost infinite number of friends. Well… 24! Although it’s super fun being in the house, it’s right on Batu Ferringhi beachfront and close to several others of Penang’s beachside points of interest. So, start your day with a race down to those warm waters!
Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Penang – Batu Ferringhi bungalow with pool
- $$$$$$$$
- 16 Guests
- Swimming pool with inflatable unicorn
- Basketball and badminton courts
Believe it or not, the Iron Man Penang Airbnb isn’t the most ridiculous or ostentatious property you can find. Another awesome Airbnb in Batu Ferringhi, you can race across the pool on inflatable unicorns. If you want to play sport but not get wet, there’s a basketball court, a badminton court, and a pool table. So, there are no excuses for piling the weight on with delicious street food! If you’re looking for a more chill time, you can enjoy the DVD home theatre system – which is linked to a 60 inch TV!
Best Airbnb in Penang for Families –Kimberley Night Market Private Room
- $$
- 5 Guests
- Fully equipped kitchen
- 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
- $$$$
- 8 Guests
- Fabulous back courtyard
- Mezzanine with awesome views
You’ve seen all those beautiful shophouses in Georgetown, you might have even bought some souvenirs from one of them. However, have you stayed in one? Now’s your chance with this awesome Penang apartment! Right in the centre of the UNESCO zone, this is the perfect flash-packer pad, with space for you and 7 of your best pals. The third-floor mezzanine gives you some really lovely views, while the courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee or breakfast!
Best Airbnb in Batu Ferringhi – Apartment by Batu Ferringhi Beach
- $$$
- 5 Guests
- Direct access to beach
- 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
- $$
- 2 Guests
- Complimentary breakfast
- Laptop friendly workspace
We promise this is the last place we’re going to show you in Batu Ferringhi! You’ve already seen places that can accommodate big groups, but here’s something more suitable for a solo traveller or a couple. This awesome suite has a minibar and a TV, not to mention a complimentary breakfast! Digital nomads will appreciate the laptop friendly workspace, while those who have their own transport will be grateful for the free parking space!
Top Value Airbnb in Georgetown – Roti Bakar Georgetown homestay
- $$
- 3 Guests
- Close to hawker centres
- 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 sort your travel insurance before heading to Penang! We’ve put together a roundup of the best travel insurance for backpackers – check it out here, or if you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads, our favorite travel insurance provider.
Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple – just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and you’re on your way!
Yay for transparency! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation, buy a book or sort your insurance, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only link to stuff I’ve actually used and never endorse crap. Your support helps me keep the site going.
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Ralph is a former manager in the hospitality industry turned wild child. With a desire to experience all things unconventional, Ralph enjoys visiting the lesser-known landscapes of the world and has ended up in some pretty strange and wonderful places. Recently, he spent eight months travelling around Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, spending as much time as possible in the wilderness and doing everything to avoid the crowds.
You can follow his adventures at Roaming Ralph or get in touch via his social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.