Penang’s luxury hospitality sector has earned significant international recognition, with three George Town properties securing places in the prestigious Top 10 of the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia 2026 under the “City Hotels” category. The achievement underscores Penang’s growing reputation as one of Asia’s most compelling urban leisure destinations, blending heritage, culture and world-class hospitality.
The three Penang hotels recognised in the Top 10 are: Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion, Eastern & Oriental Hotel and The Prestige Hotel Penang
Notably, these were the only hotels outside Kuala Lumpur to make the list. The remaining seven hotels in the Top 10 were all located in the Malaysian capital: Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, EQ Kuala Lumpur, W Kuala Lumpur, The RuMa Hotel and Residences, Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on The Park and Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur.
The strong showing by Penang highlights the state’s ability to compete with the country’s premier metropolitan destination, with its luxury hotel offerings distinguished by heritage architecture, unique design concepts and immersive cultural experiences.
Among the winners, Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion stands as one of Malaysia’s most iconic heritage properties. Located within George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the meticulously restored 19th-century mansion combines boutique luxury with living history. Guests can stay within the landmark’s distinctive indigo-blue walls while enjoying guided heritage tours, elegant courtyards and award-winning conservation architecture. The property is internationally renowned for its unique blend of Chinese, European and local architectural influences.
Meanwhile, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, affectionately known as the E&O, continues to be one of Southeast Asia’s grand historic hotels. Established in 1885, the seafront property offers colonial-era elegance paired with modern luxury. Facilities include an infinity pool overlooking the Straits of Malacca, multiple dining venues, a spa, fitness centre, art gallery and spacious heritage-inspired suites. Its prime waterfront location and rich legacy have made it one of Penang’s most celebrated hospitality landmarks.
Completing Penang’s trio of winners is The Prestige Hotel Penang, a contemporary luxury boutique hotel that has quickly established itself as one of the city’s most stylish addresses. Inspired by Victorian design with a modern interpretation, the hotel features sophisticated interiors, a rooftop infinity pool, curated dining experiences and easy access to George Town’s cultural attractions. As a member of Design Hotels, it has garnered international acclaim for its distinctive aesthetics and guest experience.
The inclusion of three Penang properties in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia 2026 Top 10 City Hotels list reflects the island’s growing stature as a destination where heritage, design, culture and luxury hospitality converge. While Kuala Lumpur dominated the rankings numerically, Penang’s representation demonstrates the enduring global appeal of its unique hospitality landscape and the strength of George Town as a luxury city destination.
That’s fantastic news for Penang! It’s great to see George Town hotels getting this kind of recognition – the city really does have such a unique charm.