The Coolest Airbnbs and Holiday Apartments in Penang, Malaysia

For a homey base in the heart of George Town, consider one of the two three-bedroom apartments up for grabs here. Both are similarly outfitted in stylish, contemporary furniture with splashes of powder pink, baby blue and bamboo. There’s a sleek kitchen-diner and a smart, expensive-feeling bathroom, but the star is the large balcony with views across the water to the mainland. Plus, Penang’s best eating, shopping and sights are just a short walk away.

So the choice of wallpaper in some of the rooms might not be to your taste, but you can’t argue with the space and overall quality of these two villas. Beside the extra bedroom, there’s not much in it between the six-bedroom and five-bedroom option, as inside both, rooms are decked out with designer furniture, bathrooms are big and bright and kitchens are modern and well-equipped. A north shore location means you’re a short taxi ride from some of the island’s best beaches, too.

Holidaying with family for a wedding, or a milestone birthday, perhaps? Then one (or even both) of these two six-bedroom villas on Penang’s north shore could be just the ticket. They’re certainly stylish enough for a special occasion, with backlit mirrors, sleek breakfast bars and a chic monochrome colour scheme. What’s more, both villas come with their own garden for BBQs or sunset cocktails, and you’re within striking distance of some belting beaches, too.

Eschew the typical resort stay with a stint at this rustic home in Penang. Despite calling itself a bungalow, this period cottage has six bedrooms over two floors that boast fun, lively furniture. There’s lots of communal space, including a vast yard and a cosy living room, and a location on the coast means views over the Straits of Malacca. Perched on Penang’s north shore, you’re also just a short taxi ride from some of the island’s best beaches and other outdoor pursuits.

If for nothing else, it’s hard to look past this modern, two-bedroom apartment for the unbelievable outdoor infinity pool you’ll have access to. Located several storeys up on the side of the building, you can float to views of Penang’s Unesco-listed historical core. Inside, there’s ample space, and rooms are decked out with contemporary furniture and stylish designer touches, and as well as the pool, you’ll have access to a fitness centre and other communal areas.

The apartments at 218 Macalister Penang By Plush are sleek and modern, a contrast with much of the often dated accommodation on Penang. Rooms are decked out in bold colours and contemporary furnishings, and guests have access to an Instagram-worthy infinity pool and sleek fitness centre. There’s a functional kitchen for self-catering, or alternatively you’re a short walk to some of the island’s best street stalls and restaurants.

If you like sea views, pool views, and Penang Hill views, this duplex suite does it all with a touch of urban class. Luxuriously spacious, and spanning a ground and mezzanine floor, this apartment-style loft can host up to eight guests at any given time. Restaurants are super close by, and you can ask the host for recommendations. The heritage George Town is about 10 minutes away by car.

What happens when you combine the contemporary and the historic? You’ll find it here: walls with brick elements, bathrooms with traditional Peranakan tiles and round mirrors with fancy backlighting. Local food vendors and stalls are nearby, so whenever you need a nosh, you need not look (or walk) far.