3 Best Hotels in Penang, Malaysia

Indigo-color outer walls of the former home to 19th-century millionaire Cheong Fatt Tze are responsible for this property's well-known nickname, the "Blue Mansion." Each of the 16 theme bedrooms have been given titles as well: Fragrant Poem is a deluxe double, where you will find period antique furniture; and the Old Kitchen is a studio room decked out with old-fashion kitchen tools and a wood-fire cooking station. The mansion's layout is closely based on feng-shui principles, including proverbs inscribed over doorways and a balanced combination of metal, timber, water, fire, and earth evident throughout. Breakfast is included and served alfresco in the charming courtyard. The house even received a UNESO Heritage award thanks to its thoughtful preservation.

A multimillion ringgit refurbishment converted 15 prewar shop houses into this 45-room boutique hotel, retaining the 1940s features while introducing contemporary aesthetics and amenities. The four choices for accommodation—each featuring a Jacuzzi spa, natural-history prints that relate to Penang, and pieces of antique furniture—include: Clark Terraces, family-friendly two-floor houses with two bedrooms and private gardens; Penaga Suites, a first-floor two-bedroom, two-bathroom; Transfer Suites, which sit above the spa with a sitting room and large bedroom; and Hutton Rooms, with one bedroom and the most affordable rates. Relax in the hotel's spa, which focuses on ancient remedies and treatments inspired by the Malay Peninsula, incorporating several botanical ingredients.

Malihom's name, which translates to "village of the fragrant rice" in Thai, was inspired by the nine traditional rice storage barns brought over from Chiang Mai to serve as this eco-retreat's guestrooms. Set on the southern end of Penang atop high hills, the small eco-hotel has a tranquil setting offering views of the mountains, sea, city, and lush forest valleys. Yoga and spa sessions can be organized, and each barn has a private garden that's a nice perch for bird-watching. The rates include three daily meals made fresh with seasonal produce.