5 Hotels in Bukit Mertajam That Will Make Your Stay in Penang Extra Memorable
When people think of places to stay in Penang, they immediately gravitate towards those resorts and hotels in Pulau Pinang, specifically in George Town. We can’t blame them either, as it’s where you’ll find excellent restaurants and most of Penang’s famous attractions.
However, one life hack I’ve learned growing up in a frugal family is to book a hotel at Bukit Mertajam during our travels to Penang. Not only does this allow us to enjoy cheaper rates, but it also helps us discover hidden cafes, restaurants, and attractions.
Furthermore, the suburb is a lot less crowded compared to George Town. Continue reading to discover the best hotels in Bukit Mertajam if you want to enjoy a more peaceful, budget-friendly, and unique stay in Penang!
What is the average cost of hotels in Bukit Mertajam?
The average cost of hotels in Bukit Mertajam starts at RM380 for 3-star hotels and RM550 for 5-star establishments. The price may also depend on the date of booking, with June being the cheapest month to visit Penang.
1. Vangohh Eminent
Highlights: VIP lounge, swimming pool, poolside bar, banquet hall, fitness centre, limousine services
Location: 3406, Jalan Machang Bubok 2
Contact: +60 4-548 6888
Vangohh Eminent is a great option if you’re looking for a luxurious stay during your time in Bukit Mertajam. We interviewed previous guests, and they’ve had nothing to share but praise about their lavish rooms.
For instance, the suites featured unique and creative themes that aren’t typically found in hotel rooms.
Some stand-outs include the Alice in Wonderland and the Mini Cooper rooms. The former features interior decor inspired by the classic novel, while the latter features a full-scale model of the titular car!
Another highlight from our surveys was how much fun kids had in the pool because of its swirling slides and showers. Many also complimented the poolside bar, as it offered a wide array of food and beverages.
Of course, the main downside of a luxurious hotel like this is the expensive price range. Still, we think it offers great value for money, considering the rooms’ comfort and design, the facilities offered, and the food and beverage choices.
It was perfect
“This high-end hotel is rather far away from the town/ City. Effluent Bukit Mertajam folk hold wedding functions here, and this was evident in the noisy crowd here on Friday through Sunday nights. The room we got was spacious and plush, and the bathroom was luxurious.
It was perfect. The pool was quite fun and clean. Our little boy didn’t fall ill. The shower by the poolside was also in very good condition. Hot water showers and hairdryers are also available there. There was a gym too, but we didn’t have time to use it.
There is a nursery upfront/ at the face of the property. As it was the weekend, and it was not operational, our little boy played with the items there. Nice trip overall. Will return again. Oh, breakfast was included.”
– Shawn Cheng, Google Review
Still, the best hotel if you travel to Bukit Mertajam Penang
“Came back to hometown again for my cousin’s wedding. The hotel room was clean and spacious. The kids enjoyed the swimming pool very much. Still, the best hotel if you travel to Bukit Mertajam Penang.”
– Goh WP, Google Review
2. Iconic Hotel Penang
Highlights: Swimming pool, sauna, fitness centre, electric vehicle charging station, shuttle services
Location: 71, Jln Icon City
Contact: +60 4-505 9988
Iconic Hotel Penang is a 4-star hotel we’ve stayed at multiple times, so we knew we had to include it on this list. Their rates aren’t cheap, but they aren’t too expensive either—plus they offer great value for money.
For starters, they offer rooms that are spacious (except the studio), well-maintained, and offer modern amenities like hot water, fridge, and flat-screen TVs. They’re also designed elegantly with minimalist decor.
We also love the hotel’s selection of facilities, specifically the roof deck swimming pool, which offers a nice view of the city. There’s also a sauna and a fully-fledged fitness centre, complete with weights, machines, and benches.
Furthermore, we like the hotel’s accessible location, as it sits in the heart of Icon City, one of the suburb’s business centres. This allows us to explore the area to discover hidden restaurants and cafes.
The only downside is the slightly inconsistent behaviour of some staff members. Although we haven’t experienced this ourselves, we surveyed previous guests and heard a handful of complaints regarding the attitude shown to them by some representatives.
Fully recommend
“I had a long stay here due to installation work in Batu Kawan, so Iconic Hotel would be the nearest and strategic place to book. More than enough room space for a king bedroom. Very good taste for in-dining room meals to order. I fully recommend this room for your vacation.”
– Rizuan Mohd Rosnan, Google Review
Convenient, comfortable and has great food
“This was my first hotel choice for a business trip to Penang. It’s convenient, comfortable, and has great food. There’s plenty of parking, a gym, and restaurants nearby. Highly recommended!”
– Chayanan Sasook, Google Review
3. FuHotel
Highlights: Flat-screen TVs, spacious rooms, panoramic views of the city
Location: 53, Lorong Setia Sentral 1
Contact: +60 4-502 1088
FuHotel is a solid option if you’re not looking to splurge on accommodation during your trip to Bukit Mertajam.
It features great value-for-money rooms, which are equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, vanity areas, air-conditioning, and refrigerators. The most noteworthy thing about these rooms is their en-suite bathrooms.
Previous guests expressed their fascination with the high-tech water settings on the showers and toilets. Moreover, they were also surprised to see that their rooms featured automatic curtains, which they didn’t expect at this price point.
Amenities aside, these rooms also excel in comfort based on their beds alone. Our interviewees noted how they had the best sleep on their trip to Penang when they stayed here because of the plush mattresses and comforters.
The only issue we have with this hotel is its limited facilities, like swimming pools, gymnasiums, nurseries, and work areas. We can’t knock on it too much, however, as it’s how they’re able to reduce the costs.
Plus, we feel like this is made up for by the hotel’s location, as it’s near essential establishments, attractions, cafes, and restaurants.
Everything felt modern and well-maintained
“Had a truly wonderful experience here. A big thank you to Iszaendrin for always greeting us with a happy smile and warm service — she really made our stay special!
The room was super clean, quiet, and neatly arranged. I was especially impressed by the high-tech toilet accessories and amazing water pressure. Everything felt modern and well-maintained.
Also, a special mention goes to the room service girl who did an excellent job keeping the room fresh and tidy every day.
Highly recommend this hotel — can’t wait to come back.”
– Chitra Sri, Google Review
Very clean and spacious rooms
“Very new establishments with very clean and spacious rooms. I was impressed with all the techs they integrated into the rooms, from heated toilet seats to auto-curtains. Great to have all the cafes and convenience stores within very short walking distance.
It helps to have the petrol station nearby too. Service at reception is super friendly and helpful, too. Will definitely be back!”
– Anna Kee, Google Review
4. Grand Orient Hotel Perai
Highlights: Waterpark, gymnasium, parking, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs
Location: No 3079, Jalan Laguna 1
Contact: +60 4-383 0099
Grand Orient Hotel Perai was recommended by a friend who recently went on a summer getaway to Penang. They shared that they chose this hotel because it’s attached to a fun waterpark, complete with huge pools and swirly slides.
Aside from the waterpark, we discovered that the hotel also boasts a fully equipped gym. Moreover, we were surprised that they also offer a sauna! It’s a great place to relax after a day at the waterpark.
Our only gripe with this place is its expensive overnight rates. It doesn’t help that the entrance fee to the attached waterpark is a separate cost.
We also feel like, for their price, the rooms aren’t as elegant and spacious as we would’ve expected, given their price range.
The waterpark was perfect for both kids and adults
“Had a great stay at Grand Oriental Penang! The waterpark was definitely perfect for both kids and adults. Plenty of slides, a lazy river, and splash zones kept everyone entertained all day.
The rooms were clean and comfortable, and the staff, Anas and Isha, were super friendly and helpful throughout our stay. Great for a weekend getaway or a family trip. Definitely repeat with a big family Sebab Murah and Berbaloi.”
– Fahana Mdnor, Google Review
The service was amazing
“I booked a head spa. Member price is RM150 for 60 mins. The regular price is RM180. The service was amazing.
It started with hair brushing, then they used a thin comb to part the hair and applied some scalp product, and then they massaged my head and shoulder. It was very relaxing, and I enjoyed it a lot. We were moved to the hair washing station for hair shampooing and conditioning.
I don’t remember much as I fell asleep. After they applied the hair conditioner, they started to massage my hands. The service ended with a pick-your-style blow dry.
I will definitely come back here again.”
– Anna Kee, Google Review
5. Citadines Prai Penang
Highlights: Shuttle car service, roof deck swimming pool, electric car charging station, gym
Location: G-01, Menara Sentral
Contact: +60 4-566 2388
Citadines Prai Penang is a four-star hotel that offers serviced apartments instead of the usual suites. This makes it a great option for families and long stays, as each room comes fully equipped with a kitchen so guests can prepare their meals.
Also, my family and I have stayed here a couple of times, and we’ve never had any problems with the size, comfort, and hygiene of these rooms.
One of our favourite things about this hotel is its location. It’s not in the city centre, but it’s surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and stores begging to be discovered. Also, it’s located near Icon City.
We also want to highlight the hotel’s roof deck swimming pool, as it’s among the best spots to relax in Bukit Mertajam. Previous guests even told us during our interviews that they spent most of their day here catching panoramic views of Penang.
Another factor that previous guests have loved about this hotel is the prompt customer service. We’ve heard of several instances where the staff members immediately took action when dealing with a noise complaint.
Just a heads up, a night’s stay comes with a hefty price tag. With all the amenities and premium location, we’re not surprised.
Pleasantly surprised
“Value for money. Pleasantly surprised by the space of the family unit, the cleanliness of the room & friendliness of the front desk service.
It’s located at one of the best spots in Prai and surrounded by tonnes of restaurants & cafes. Fast & stable wifi too. The free coffee at the lobby is a plus.”
– MY Poh, Google Review
Greeted us with a warm smile
“This was my first time staying here, and I was pleasantly surprised. The location is incredibly convenient, with numerous shops nearby. The ample parking on the 5th floor was a huge plus.
The apartment itself was well-maintained and clean. I particularly loved the layout, and the inclusion of a washer/dryer was a game-changer, especially for those working in Prai. I wish I had known about this place when my colleagues were in town for their two-week work stint.
I want to give a special shoutout to the housekeeping staff on Level 27. His cheerful demeanour and polite service truly made our stay exceptional.
He greeted us with a warm smile and expressed gratitude for our visit. This staff member would be an excellent asset to the front desk team.
While the overall experience was fantastic, one minor point of dissatisfaction was the watery consistency of the shower gel and shampoo.”
– Alyssa Yip, Google Review