Queen Street is a narrow alley that pulses with time and creativity. Colorful murals line both sides, each brick bursting with artistic poetry. By day, it’s a quiet haven for indie cafés; by night, it transforms into a neon-lit stage for street performers. Come here not to shop—but to let your soul dance in color.




















Everything you need to know about Queen St
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel stands out as a premier choice, located just a 2-minute walk from Queen Street. This heritage hotel blends colonial-era architecture with modern luxury, featuring rooms adorned with traditional Malay wood carvings and marble flooring. Guests enjoy complimentary cultural tours that delve into the George Town World Heritage Site's rich history. Its rooftop restaurant offers panoramic views of the Penang Strait, making it ideal for sunset and night-time photography.
Queen Street is centrally located within George Town's UNESCO World Heritage Zone, offering seamless access to major sites. Take a short bus ride from the Queen Street Bus Terminal to Penang Hill, Chew Jetty, or St. George’s Church—all within 15–30 minutes. Alternatively, rent an electric scooter from nearby stations and explore colorful street art alleys and ancient temples in under 30 minutes. Use apps like Grab or Gojek for hassle-free, on-demand transport and enjoy well-maintained pedestrian-friendly pathways throughout the city.
Visit The Old Town Coffee Shop, a hidden gem tucked in a narrow alley off Queen Street. Its exterior features hand-painted Malay traditional motifs, while the interior preserves 1930s tin roofs and vintage chandeliers. Savor locally crafted coconut coffee and Nyonya kueh, accompanied by old-school jazz tunes from a record player. The standout feature is the rooftop garden terrace, offering stunning shots of overlapping rooftops and sunset reflections on the harbor, making it a must-visit spot for photographers.
Join the daily street culture walking tour led by local guides, exploring landmarks like Chen Clan Temple, Hindu temples, and Fujian Association Hall to understand the harmonious coexistence of ethnic communities. Participate in evening night market workshops where you can learn to cook Penang char kway teow and satay skewers using traditional clay pots. Some hotels also offer handwritten Chinese couplets and Cantonese language lessons, providing immersive insight into the region’s multi-ethnic heritage.
Hotel Gurney Plaza is a top-rated family-friendly option just steps away from Queen Street. It features a dedicated children’s playroom, outdoor swimming pool, and safety-certified facilities. Complimentary services include baby cots, kids’ bathrobes, and free children’s meals. Special programs such as treasure hunts and Malaysian folk tales storytelling sessions make it ideal for kids. Each evening, enjoy a free outdoor movie night under the stars at the seaside plaza, where families can watch classic films while sipping drinks at the sea breeze café.
Take a peaceful walk along the North River Promenade, one of the most scenic routes near Queen Street. The neon signs and boat lights shimmer across the water, creating a magical reflection. Pass by the illuminated Red Building Theatre, its Victorian arches glowing under soft lighting. For authentic local vibes, wander through the night market alleys, sampling steaming curry fish head noodles and mango sticky rice while watching locals chat beneath bamboo chairs. This area is not only photogenic but also a vibrant gateway to experiencing Penang’s nocturnal culture.
Stay at The Queensbay Hotel, a boutique gem nestled in the heart of Queen Street. Its colonial-era façade blends with modern elegance, offering rooms with panoramic views of the bustling street life. The hotel is just steps from local eateries and heritage sites like Kapitan Keling Mosque and Chowrasta Market. Guests enjoy complimentary access to a rooftop lounge with sunset views over the city skyline. Nearby, the Heritage Walk provides guided tours through 19th-century shophouses and street art zones.
Head to Gurney Drive’s night market stalls just a 10-minute walk from Queen Street. Try char kway teow at Ah Meng’s stall, known for its wok hei flavor, or sample assam laksa at the family-run cart near Siam Square. For dessert, visit Nasi Kandar Lala’s for their signature pulut panggang (grilled glutinous rice). These vendors operate daily from 5 PM to midnight, offering an immersive taste of Penang’s culinary soul—a must-try for food lovers.
Yes! Join a traditional pineapple basket weaving workshop at the George Town Craft Village, located just off Queen Street. Led by local artisans, participants learn to craft intricate baskets using natural rattan and traditional techniques passed down for generations. You’ll also explore Peranakan ceramic painting sessions at the Museum of the Peranakan Culture, where you can create your own ornate design inspired by ancestral motifs. These hands-on experiences offer deep insight into Malay-Chinese fusion heritage.
Choose Hotel Penang, which offers spacious family suites with children’s play areas and interactive activities such as batik painting workshops and local snack tasting. The hotel’s rooftop garden features a small playground and shaded seating, perfect for parents relaxing while kids play. It’s within walking distance of Penang Hill Railway Station and Little India’s vibrant streets, making it ideal for multi-generational travel. Free shuttle services run to major attractions, ensuring stress-free exploration.
Absolutely. The Penang Island Bus Service (PIBS) connects Queen Street to all key districts, including Komtar, Bukit Mertajam, and Balik Pulau. The Red Tram stops nearby at Dato’ Kamisan Station, providing scenic rides across the island. For drivers, underground parking is available at Queen Street Car Park with app-based HopeGoo. Most hotels offer free airport transfers, and real-time updates via the MyBus app help avoid peak-hour congestion.
Discover the hidden mural alley behind the old post office, a vibrant canvas depicting Penang’s maritime past and multicultural identity. Another secret: the wisteria-covered courtyard of St. George’s Church, where soft sunlight filters through climbing vines—ideal for portrait photography. Don’t miss the antique brass bell on a shophouse rooftop, often featured in Instagram reels due to its unique echo effect. These quiet corners reveal the poetic soul of George Town’s heritage district.
See what other travelers say about Queen St

Visited three hotels during my trip to Penang, and Seven Terraces stands out as the absolute best. It's not just stylish with a unique design aesthetic—it's also incredibly quiet, making it perfect for a peaceful stay. The on-site restaurant is Michelin-rated, and the food was exceptional—definitely worth a special visit. I also want to thank the platform's customer service for helping me secure the reservation at the Michelin restaurant and arranging a late check-out until 1 PM. Their support made a big difference. Overall, this hotel offers outstanding value and a memorable experience—I'd definitely come back.

Staying at Tien Terrace was an absolute delight! The hotel is beautifully designed with a modern, aesthetic vibe that really stands out in George Town. From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm and attentive, making me feel right at home. The room was spacious, clean, and flooded with natural light—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the city. I especially loved the rooftop terrace; it’s a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the city skyline, ideal for unwinding with a drink in hand. The location is fantastic—walking distance to great cafes, local markets, and cultural spots. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully curated, and the 10/10 rating truly reflects the exceptional experience. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at Golden View Serviced Apartments in George Town was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and immaculately clean—no corner left untouched. What stood out the most was having a microwave in the unit, which made meal prep so convenient, especially for late-night snacks or reheating food while traveling with kids. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and close to public transport, making it easy to explore local attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, and everything was set up perfectly upon arrival. It’s rare to find such comfort, cleanliness, and practicality at this price point. I’ll definitely be returning next time I’m in Penang.

My stay at Noble Villa Apartment in George Town, Malaysia, was extremely disappointing. The pool water was visibly dirty with debris floating around—definitely not safe or inviting. Noise from other guests was constant throughout the night, making it nearly impossible to get a good rest. I also noticed the tap water was discolored and had a strange taste, which turned out to be due to the incoming water filter never being replaced in years—a serious hygiene concern. To make matters worse, garbage piled up in the lobby area, creating a strong unpleasant odor that made the entrance feel unpleasant and unclean. Despite its convenient location near public transit, the lack of basic maintenance and poor management ruined the entire experience. I wouldn't recommend this property to anyone looking for a clean, quiet, and comfortable stay.

Last-minute booking and I couldn't be happier with the deal—great price, clean room, and it's definitely one of my top choices when visiting Penang. The location is perfect: right by the beach, with peaceful views and a relaxing atmosphere. Easy access to downtown via public transit, and there are plenty of local eateries nearby. It’s not just convenient—it’s an unbeatable value for the quality. I’ll definitely come back again.

Staying at Red Rock Hotel in Penang was an absolute delight. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. The pool area is fantastic, perfect for relaxing or letting the kids enjoy themselves—my daughter had a blast! We loved how central the location is; major attractions are just a short walk or quick ride away. Plus, there are countless great dining options nearby—local flavors, street food, and cozy cafes all within easy reach. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend days exploring without ever feeling far from everything. Highly recommend this gem—it’s truly one of the best stays in George Town.

This was my first trip to Malaysia, and after reading positive reviews online about this globally recognized chain hotel, I decided to give it a try. I'm glad I did— the room was surprisingly spacious with excellent air conditioning that kept the space comfortably cool, perfect for those who tend to get chilly. The only minor issue was spotting a few ants appearing unexpectedly on the table and sink counter—no idea where they came from, but it’s not uncommon in tropical areas. Despite that, the overall experience was fantastic. The location is convenient, close to public transit, and the value for money is unbeatable. I’d definitely stay here again if I return to Penang.

This was hands down my most satisfying trip ever! I highly recommend it for travelers on a budget who still want a comfortable and charming stay. The property is actually a beautifully restored terrace house, impeccably clean from top to bottom—every corner felt fresh and well-maintained. The interior design strikes the perfect balance between modern style and cozy warmth, making it feel like a home away from home. Breakfast was simple but delicious—just bread and jam, which worked perfectly for me and my boyfriend, since we usually wake up around lunchtime and needed something quick before heading out. It’s also incredibly close to major tourist spots—just a short drive away, so exploring was super convenient. The only hiccup? Our toilet clogged on the second night. But the staff responded instantly via WhatsApp, arranged a room change with zero hassle, and made sure we were comfortable throughout. Their quick, friendly support turned a potential problem into a positive experience. Overall, this place exceeded expectations in every way—great value, warm hospitality, and a fantastic location. I’ll definitely be back and would recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic, stress-free stay.

Staying at Mclane Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight! We originally booked just one night, but ended up extending by two additional days because we loved both the city and the hotel so much. The location is perfect—walking distance to local attractions and public transit, making it super convenient for exploring George Town. The room was spacious, immaculately clean, and had a cozy, modern vibe. The staff went above and beyond with their kindness and helpfulness—always smiling, ready to assist with recommendations or logistics. It felt like staying in a home away from home. If you're visiting George Town, this is definitely a top pick. We’ll be back!

Staying at Rangoon Residences + was an absolutely fantastic experience. The room was spacious and immaculately clean—walking barefoot felt like stepping on a cloud, with zero dust or mess in sight. Having two air conditioners made the space even more comfortable, especially when sharing with my parents; it felt open and airy without any sense of crowding. The staff went above and beyond with their hospitality—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. Plus, getting around town by taxi was incredibly convenient, making exploring George Town a breeze. I stayed for three nights and didn’t want to leave! This place offers incredible value for money and deserves every bit of praise. Will definitely be back.

This trip to Penang lasted five nights—three of them were spent in a city-center hotel, which was great for accessing all the local attractions. For the final two nights, I stayed at Corner Club Penang, and honestly, it completely changed my perception of George Town. The property is brand new with modern facilities, just two floors, and each building is named after the club’s identity—very unique and stylish. What stood out most was how convenient the location is: plenty of shopping malls, supermarkets, and dining options are right nearby. Everything you need is within walking distance. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-designed. It felt like a quiet retreat while still being close to everything. Overall, the experience was excellent—great value, peaceful atmosphere, and a refreshing take on what a stay in Penang can be. Definitely recommend this place if you're looking for something fresh and well-connected.

Staying at Sweet Cili Boutique Hotel in George Town was a delightful experience overall. The hotel’s interior design truly captures the essence of Malaysian charm—unique, authentic, and full of character. Every corner felt thoughtfully curated, with clean and well-maintained facilities. I appreciated how spotless everything was, from the rooms to the common areas. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk or quick ride away from major attractions, making exploring the city incredibly convenient. One small note: guests are required to remove shoes upon entering the room, which might be unusual for some, but it’s a nice way to keep things tidy. Despite that, the cleanliness, atmosphere, and excellent location make this hotel a standout choice. I’d definitely recommend it to fellow travelers looking for a cozy, authentic stay in George Town.
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