Chinatown hotels from RM50

Top reasons to visit Chinatown

• Vibrant Markets: Explore lively markets and shops, offering a variety of souvenirs and local goods.
• Delicious Street Food: Savour authentic Malaysian street food, showcasing the region's culinary diversity.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Discover historic temples, museums, and heritage houses that reflect the area's vibrant history.
• Walking Tours: Enjoy guided or self-guided walking tours through picturesque streets filled with friendly locals.
• Exciting Nightlife: Experience the lively nightlife, immersing yourself in the local culture and atmosphere.

Find great hotels near Chinatown

Chinatown in George Town, Penang, offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Ideal for both business travellers and families seeking a historic experience, these lodgings provide easy access to the vibrant culture and culinary delights of the area. Whether you prefer a hotel near Chinatown or further afield, you'll discover a range of choices to enhance your stay in this bustling enclave.

• JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La: A contemporary 4-star hotel, JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La is situated 805m from Chinatown, making it an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, the hotel emphasises family-friendly amenities, including a children's pool, cribs, and babysitting services. Guests can enjoy a delightful breakfast tailored for younger visitors, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. The modern decor and vibrant atmosphere reflect the cultural richness of Penang, providing a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration.
• Eastern And Oriental Hotel: Nestled within a historic building and only 483m from Chinatown, the Eastern And Oriental Hotel is a luxurious 5-star accommodation with a remarkable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel immerses visitors in a historic theme, offering a glimpse into Penang's colonial past while providing modern comforts. Family amenities include cribs and babysitting services, alongside a first aid kit for peace of mind. The elegant setting, combined with attentive service, creates a refined atmosphere perfect for families seeking a memorable vacation experience steeped in history.
• Bayview Hotel Georgetown Penang: A welcoming 4-star hotel located just 483m from Chinatown, Bayview Hotel Georgetown Penang caters to both families and business travellers. With an array of amenities, including a children's pool and breakfast options tailored for younger guests, it ensures a comfortable stay for families. Guests appreciate the thoughtful touches, such as window guards for added safety. The hotel's convenient location allows easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant culture and culinary delights of George Town.

Where to stay in Chinatown

Chinatown in George Town, Penang, offers a vibrant blend of culture and history, perfect for family or business-themed vacations. Explore the side streets filled with friendly locals, savour delicious street food, and discover unique shops. Nearby attractions like Leicester Square and other charming neighbourhoods provide a relaxing atmosphere for leisurely strolls. Experience the welcoming vibe of this bustling village, where every corner reveals the rich tapestry of Malaysian heritage.

• George Town: As the capital of Penang, George Town is a vibrant city rich in history and culture. Nestled along the northeastern coast of Penang Island, it boasts a unique blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and modern shopping centres. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a top choice for travellers seeking a family-friendly, city-themed experience. Key highlights include the picturesque esplanade, historical landmarks, and local beaches, providing visitors with a dynamic travel experience that caters to both leisure and business needs.
• Downtown George Town: Located a mere 805m from Chinatown, Downtown George Town is a lively neighbourhood that offers a bustling atmosphere filled with shops, eateries, and cultural attractions. This area experiences a steady influx of visitors year-round, with peak seasons in January and mid-year. Families and business travellers alike flock to the shopping areas and malls that characterise this district. Attractions such as the scenic esplanade and historic sites are easily accessible, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider George Town area.
• Little India: Just 483m from Chinatown, Little India is a vibrant village that immerses visitors in the sights and sounds of Indian culture. Known for its lively markets and colourful streets, this area is particularly popular among families seeking entertainment and adventure. With water parks and theme parks nearby, there's plenty to keep the young ones entertained. The peak visiting times in July and December draw crowds eager to experience the cultural festivities and culinary delights that Little India has to offer, making it a must-visit destination during your stay.

Things to do in Chinatown

Shopping

In the heart of Chinatown, explore the vibrant Penang Street Market for unique handicrafts and local delicacies. If you're up for a drive, check out Gurney Plaza, a popular shopping mall offering a mix of international brands and dining options, located about 5km away.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil surroundings of the Penang Wellness Sanctuary, offering rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga sessions amidst lush greenery. For an active retreat, join a tai chi class in the nearby gardens, promoting relaxation and balance while immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant street art scene in Chinatown, where colourful murals adorn historic buildings, inviting you to snap captivating photos. Indulge in culinary adventures at hawker stalls, sampling local delicacies like Char Kway Teow and Penang Laksa, each bite offering a taste of the region's rich heritage.

Nightlife

In George Town's Chinatown, the vibrant nightlife features bustling street food stalls and lively bars like The Canteen and China House, where you can enjoy live music and art events. The atmosphere is infused with a blend of rich culture and modernity, making it a unique night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chinatown

To save money on your visit to Chinatown, George Town, consider travelling in March or October to November when prices are lower. Enjoy free attractions like Armenian Street and the Goddess of Mercy Temple. Utilize public transport options, such as buses or bicycles, to keep travel costs down. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, particularly avoiding Sunday stays which tend to be pricier. For additional savings, look for package deals on Expedia that combine hotels, flights, and activities.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Chinatown are March and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Chinatown about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Chinatown is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Chinatown is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen destination, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels at the outset. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Chinatown with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Chinatown

Chinatown in George Town, Penang, is perfect for family, city-themed, and business vacations. Visitors can explore a rich array of attractions, including temples, museums, and historic houses that reflect the vibrant culture and history of the area. With its bustling atmosphere and proximity to other tourist sites, Chinatown serves as a lively hub for those seeking an authentic city experience.

• Georgetown UNESCO Historic Site: This vibrant area is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage, showcasing the unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Strolling through its streets, you'll encounter colourful shophouses, street art, and bustling markets that reflect the city's diverse history.
• Pinang Peranakan Mansion: Located a short distance from Chinatown, this historic house offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Peranakan community. Visitors can explore intricately decorated rooms filled with antiques and learn about the fascinating customs and traditions of the Straits Chinese.
• Kapitan Keling Mosque: Situated in the heart of Chinatown, this stunning mosque features impressive Indo-Moorish architecture. It serves as a spiritual haven for the local Muslim community and invites visitors to appreciate its beautiful domes and tranquil surroundings.

Best time to go to Chinatown

The best time to visit Chinatown is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	82.6°F (28.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
May	82.8°F (28.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	82.6°F (28.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Chinatown

Visiting Chinatown in George Town, PENang is convenient with Penang International Airport (PEN), situated approximately 16km away. Noteworthy hotels nearby include the Eastern And Oriental Hotel, a luxurious 5-star option that offers 24-hour airport shuttle services. Lexis Suites Penang, located 3km from the airport, also provides transfers, while Hotel Equatorial Penang is just 5km away and offers easy access to the airport. For those considering a further journey, Langkawi International Airport (LGK) and Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH) are options, though they are significantly farther at 76 and 127km respectively, with good hotel choices available near each airport.