Penang, Malaysia – where culture, chaos, and cheap eats collide in the best way possible. If you’re a backpacker, this place has your name all over it.
Penang’s the western island state of Malaysia, and it’s packed with cool stuff. But the real showstopper? Georgetown. This place is a wild mix of street art, old shophouses turned into trendy boutiques, and, of course, food. SO much glorious food.
But that’s not all. Venture out of the city, and you’ve got lush botanical gardens, gorgeous beaches, and even spots where you can watch baby sea turtles make their grand entrance into the world. It’s a one-of-a-kind kind of place.
Now, where do you lay your weary backpacker head? Georgetown, right in the action, or do you go for something more chill, away from the hustle?
Don’t sweat it. I’ve done the hard work – boots on the ground and fingers to the keyboard (you’re welcome). My ultimate guide to the best hostels in Penang has your back, whether you’re here to party hard, unwind in style, sleep cheap, or find a comfy spot to call your office.
Whatever your vibe, I’ve got you covered. Ready to dive in? Let’s crack on.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Penang
- Best Overall Hostel in Penang – House of Journey
- Best Hostel in Penang for Solo Travelers – Sogor Female Dormitory
- Best Cheap Hostel in Penang – Tido Penang Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Penang – EZ Social Hostel
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Penang – Some Place Else
The 5 Best Hostels in Penang
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Penang’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the island ASAP.
1. House of Journey – Best Overall Hostel in Penang
- Dorm (mixed): From $11
- Address: 12 -20 1ST FLOOR, Lebuh Carnarvon, Penang, Malaysia
This hostel’s got life! With daily activities hosted by the team, you’ll be making mates in no time. The staff are absolute gems – friendly, helpful, and always up for sharing their travel stories while listening to yours. The vibe is buzzing, and the cheap beers definitely keep the social energy flowing.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Staff and Volunteers
- Unbeatable Location
- Daily Social Events
Set inside a chicly designed 1850s heritage building and just steps away from Love Lane, House of Journey nails the perfect Georgetown location. You’re smack in the middle of it all, with bars, restaurants, Penang Times Square, Rainbow Skywalk and a lively night food market just around the corner so your Penang itinerary will be BUSY.
This hostel offers a homey, laid-back feel, with loads of houseplants, wooden floors, and a vibe that makes it easy to meet people. The dorms are like a giant sleepover – cosy and social, but still spacious enough that you’re not cramped.
The staff are unbeatable. They’re always on hand and ready to help with anything you need. All in all, House of Journey is the go-to spot in Penang Island for travellers looking to make pals backpacking Malaysia and soak up some great atmosphere.
2. Sogor Female Dormitory – Best Hostel in Penang for Solo Travellers
- Private Room: From $19
- Address: 217-V, Jalan Burma, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
No boys here – Sogor Female Dormitory is a cosy, female-only hostel that’s perfect for solo travellers exploring this Malaysian island. The owner is wonderful; friendly, approachable, and always happy to give great tips on where to eat and what to do around town.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Lovely Host
- Chill Vibes
- Good Location
The mixed dorms are pod-style, offering plenty of privacy. Everyone’s super respectful, so the rooms stay quiet at night, ensuring a good night’s sleep. The space is always impeccably clean, and the air conditioning is a dream, keeping you cool even in Penang’s sticky heat. They’ve also thought of the little things – free laundry, a steamer, and a convenient changing room, making it all the more comfortable for female travellers.
There’s loads of space to relax or mingle with other travellers. The hostel has a lovely international vibe; you’ll meet women from all over the world, and many guests end up extending their stay because it’s such a great place to make friends. The location is great too, with plenty of good restaurants, 7/11s, and temples nearby, perfect for a day of exploring Penang’s best sights with new friends.
The whole place has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere – social without being wild. You’ll meet some wonderful people, make great memories, and truly enjoy your stay. Sogor Female Dormitory is exactly what a hostel should be.
3. Tido Penang Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Penang
- Dorm (mixed): From $8
- Private Room: From $31
- Address: 106 Argyrll Road, Penang, Malaysia
Tido Penang Hostel gives you some serious bang for your buck. It’s got a ton of chill communal spaces, perfect for kicking back after a day of sweating it out around town. The vibe’s laid-back – don’t expect a wild party, but if you’re after something more relaxed, this is your spot.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Shared Lounge
- Cheap AFFFFF
- Chill Vibes
The top-floor lounge is my personal favourite though. It’s got free water refills, a book swap, and enough space to do whatever – whether you’re working, watching a movie on the big screen, or just hanging out with the occasional fellow traveller. The free Wi-Fi’s solid, the air con’s on point, and it’s all set up for max comfort when you need some downtime.
The location’s spot-on too. Laundry’s a minute away, you’re a short walk from Rainbow Skywalk and there’s a restaurant and 24-hour convenience store across the street. You’re in Georgetown, so everything’s within walking distance.
The mixed dorms are decent – comfy beds with a bit of privacy, clean bed linen, your own plug and light, and all the basics. The rooms are clean, though the bathrooms are a bit rough around the edges. But hey, that’s hostel life, right? What it lacks in shiny bathrooms, it makes up for with super friendly staff and some of the cheapest beds in town.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI4. EZ Social Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Penang
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Address: 458 CHULIA STREET, Penang, Malaysia
EZ Social Hostel is a blast from the moment you step through the door. You’ll feel the good vibes instantly – it’s a seriously social spot, especially if you’re into the nightlife scene. But it’s not all about the nights out; they’ve got daytime excursions for when you’re feeling a bit more low-key. You really get the best of both worlds here, making it a perfect choice no matter what mood you’re in.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central Location
- Daily Events Held
- Always Fun
Located in Georgetown, the location is smack bang in the middle of everything. You’re within walking distance of Penang’s big hitters like the UNESCO Heritage Site, Penang’s Famous Street Art, Love Lane, The Top, and Chew Jetty. Plus, you’re surrounded by some of the city’s tastiest eats. Keycard access keeps things feeling secure, so even though you’re in the heart of it all, you’ll feel safe and sound.
The rooms are clean, and in the women’s dorms, you even get two pillows – a total luxury for hostel life. Little touches, like them making you a packed lunch if you’re checking out early, show they really go the extra mile.
Social life at EZ is on another level. They set up events twice a day, so you’ll never be short of something to do or someone to meet. The free breakfast is a great way to kickstart your day and meet other people backpacking Southeast Asia, and most people end up heading out to dinner together too. Dorms are clean and spacious, with staff keeping things spotless, tidying up twice a day. Honestly, it’s no surprise this place is a favourite – it guarantees a good time every time.
5. Some Place Else – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Penang
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Private Room: From $28
- Address: No.28 , Muntri street, Georgertown, Penang, Malaysia
For digital nomads in Malaysia setting up shop in Penang, Some Place Else is the spot. This place has killer facilities and a modern, safe vibe. The downstairs shared lounge is perfect for getting stuff done – super chilled during the day, so you can power through your to-do list in peace. The whole place is sleek, spotless, and totally geared toward a comfy stay.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill Vibes
- Daily Events Held
- Board Games
If hostel life isn’t your thing 24/7, no worries – the location is unbeatable. You’re surrounded by cafés and co-working spaces, perfect for switching up your workspace when you need a change of scenery. The mixed dorms are massive and squeaky clean, with plenty of showers (with good water pressure!!!) and toilets that are cleaned multiple times a day.
Evenings here are pretty chill, with good tunes, a pool table, and regular events. It’s not the most social scene, but if you’re flying solo, you won’t have any trouble making friends. They’ve got film nights, walking tours, and the hostel is just two minutes from the bar street – so if you fancy a night out, it’s right on your doorstep.
I always appreciate a hostel that has a WhatsApp group for travellers. It makes it super easy to swap tips, ask for recommendations, or just connect with other people. The staff are absolute stars – they’ll even let you store your luggage until 10 pm the next day, which is perfect if you’ve got a late bus to catch. Some Place Else is a solid pick for nomads who want a balance of productivity and play.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Penang Hostels
So, now that I’ve talked about the best, let’s talk about the rest! (Of the best). These are some more picks from the top Penang hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring the island.
Travelling with pals? Why not rally up the troops and book an epic Airbnb in Penang instead?!
The Frame Guesthouse
- Dorm (mixed): From $10
- Private Room: From $24
- Address: 168, Chulia Street, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
Located in Little India, the Frame Guesthouse is one of the coolest Penang hostels. It’s super minimalist, and ultra design-heavy. It’s a nice mix of old and new, all this high-class design is set in an old shophouse (an old frame makers’ house) and a lot of it is preserved the way it is. It’s close to cafes, restaurants and bars. The room is basic but covers all the bases well – you’ll sleep GOOD here. Super dang cool and a must-visit in Malaysia.
Red Inn Court
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Private Room: From $24
- Address: 35B & C , Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling, Pitt Street, Penang, Malaysia
You get serious bang for your buck at Red Inn Court. The place is spotless, the rooms are well air-conditioned, and the dorms are peaceful with handy privacy curtains. Plus, you get a free towel whether you’re in a dorm or a private room – which, let’s be honest, is a bit of a rarity in Malaysia. It’s not the most social spot, but if you’re keen to meet people, you can always chill in the café downstairs.
What it lacks in social buzz, it more than makes up for in location – it’s the perfect base to walk everywhere or hop on a bus. You should deff check out Pinang Peranakan Mansion whilst you’re here to soak up some Penang’s Peranakan culture. There’s even free breakfast too which includes fruit, bread, filtered coffee, and tea – it’s a total steal at this price.
The 60
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Private Room: From $20
- Address: 60, Pengkalan Weld Quay, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
This hostel’s right on a main road, but just a short stroll from the quieter, historic neighbourhood, so you get the best of both worlds. The staff are absolute gems – always ready with local tips to help you get the most out of your stay.
The rooms are basic but clean and do the trick. There’s a shared lounge with a pool table and loads of games, perfect for unwinding after a day of wandering. The dorms are spacious and well-organised, thanks to plenty of shelving to keep things tidy. As for the bunks, they’ve got you covered with privacy curtains, individual lamps, fans, outlets, and lockers at each bed.
Rope Walk Guest House
- Dorm (mixed): From $8
- Private Room: From $23
- Address: 76 Jalan Pintal Tali, Penang, Malaysia
Rope Walk Guest House is a heritage pre-war mansion tucked away in a quiet part of town, but still close to everything you need. You’re within walking distance of Chowrasta Market and the Esplanade, and the whole area is super easy to explore on foot.
The dorms are spacious, clean, and cool all day long. The beds are comfy enough to knock you out after a long day, and each one’s got its own outlet so you can keep your gadgets juiced up without the charging drama. They’ve also got a ton of affordable private rooms if you want your own space too. It’s a solid, no-fuss place that just works.
Sleep Box
- Private Room: From $23
- Address: 418, Chulia Street, Penang, Malaysia
Sleep Box is brand new to the Penang scene and packs a punch. The bed linen, pillow, and duvet are seriously comfy, and the single private rooms are the same price as a hostel but with your own privacy pods are huge – no cramped hostel vibes here. All rooms are super spacious with smart TVs and plenty of room to stash your luggage and personal bits.
You couldn’t ask for a better location, right in the heart of the old city. The design is stylish and clean, with a great communal space downstairs that’s modern and chic. Plus, with free Wi-Fi and a chill vibe, it’s perfect for digital nomads who want to work in comfort while soaking up the local scene. It’s definitely a win-win!
The 80s Guesthouse
A cool guesthouse in Georgetown, this place is actually so cool you’ll wanna move in. Seriously, Georgetown is one of my favourite places in Malaysia. Located close to Little India and Penang Times Square, you’ll be in the middle of all of the action.
This one is definitely up there as one of the coolest Penang hostels though. Even the dorms are super cool. Simple and understated, though it’s more like staying in a boutique hotel, and there ain’t much atmosphere, it’s very good value for money: e.g. free brekkie and free coffee ALL DAY.
Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel
Based on a Japanese ryokan and housed in a historic heritage building, this youth hostel in Penang is a little bit more luxury than typical backpacker-level accommodation. It’s comfy and the private rooms are pretty sweet, I gotta say.
There’s a bar here where you can enjoy a drinkie or two before heading out to one of the many, many amazing places to eat that literally litter the streets of George Town. In fact, it’s located on ‘Food Street’, so of course you gotta get involved in some must-try Malaysian food. There’s also a free breakfast here, and I’m a sucker for a free brekky.
Magpie Residence
A peaceful hostel that’s a little bit outta the centre of George Town, this top hostel in Penang Island is a great place to stay if you’re travelling Malaysia on a budget. It’s not the most sociable of hostels, but then again you get a lot for your money at this place. It’s cheaper than most other places, for a start.
You get pod bunk beds with curtains here (there are private rooms as well), there’s decent air con, the staff are helpful and cook up a different breakfast every day, which makes for a change. Clean, friendly, safe, the best cheap hostel in Penang Island also offers free coffee ALL DAY. So you can get your fix at any hour.
Tipsy Tiger Party Hostel
With a name like that, how could this NOT be one of the best party hostels in the city. Located in Little India, it features a bar with decently drinks and staff who help create a fun sociable atmosphere, it’s definitely one for the good times. I’m talkin’ cocktails, drinks deals, beach outings, all that sorta thing, and all based in the historic colonial neighbourhoods of George Town. And when you wake up feeling a lil’ jaded, just head over to the FREE BUFFET BREAKFAST, chat to your new mates and play some PlayStation. You’ll be livin’ the life.
Dream Catcher Travelers Refuge
Set in an old shophouse in the centre of George Town, the people who run this hostel are super friendly and helpful. There’s a nice common room complete with a load of seating, games and even art supplies so you can get you can get crafty with your new mates. One thing about this place is… the walls are thin, so you might have some trouble sleeping if you inevitably stumble on the Dreaded Snorer. But that’s not a huge deal. What is a huge deal (always) is the free breakfast – it’s all about the little wins.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Penang
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Penang.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Penang
Here are some questions backpackers ask about Penang hostels.
What to Pack for your Penang Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Penang Island?
The average price of Penang hostels start from $7 – $10+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
Which area of Penang is best to stay?
It’s all about what floats your boat. If you’re looking to dive headfirst into Penang’s culture, George Town is your jam with its historic streets and killer street food. For some beach vibes, Batu Ferringhi offers sun-soaked relaxation and a buzzing night market, while Tanjung Bungah is perfect if you prefer a chill atmosphere.
What is the best Penang Island hostel near the airport?
Penang International Airport is quite far from the city centre, so it is better to find the best place that offers airport transfers. I recommend House of Journey, just a 28-minute drive from Penang International Airport.
Final Thoughts on Penang’s Hostels
Penang’s got a little bit of everything, from killer street art to endless food stalls and some of the best beaches in Malaysia.
Wandering around Pennag will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a postcard, except it’s real, and you don’t have to break the bank to see it.
Still undecided on where to stay? My fave is House of Journey – it’s social, in a great location and you’re guaranteed to make pals and do some joint adventuring.
And hey, if you stumble on any hidden gems or unmissable eats, drop me a shout – I’m always on the hunt for Penang’s next best thing. Happy travels!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Malaysia for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Penang covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Penang if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Penang before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
