Noordin Street House @ George Town, Penang [Hotel in Malaysia]
A Beautiful Colonial Architecture Hotel! The UNESCO World Heritage City of Penang
Hi there! I’m Ayako, a Japanese wife currently diving headfirst into learning Malay in Malaysia.
This time, we’re introducing a chic boutique hotel right in the heart of George Town, the UNESCO World Heritage city on Penang Island. The hawker center is just a stone’s throw away! And it’s only a 1-minute walk to 1st Avenue Mall Penang George Town (you just need to cross the street! Super close!).
It’s just a 15- to 20-minute walk to the famous street art spots in Penang, making for an unbeatable location.
With its prime location, it’s highly recommended for short trips and serves as the perfect starting point for a journey exploring the rich history of Penang’s Peranakan culture! Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll still love immersing yourself in the unique spaces where pure, locally-born art blends seamlessly with historical charm.
What are the Peranakans?
The Peranakans are a term used to describe the descendants of Chinese immigrants and local Malays. Peranakan men are called Baba, and women are called Nyonya.
An entrance to a hotel with real “character.” The pairing of this historic building with tropical plants creates a truly exceptional atmosphere—it’s absolutely stunning! This hotel is nestled within Penang’s classic shophouses, lined with retro interiors that seem to quietly whisper stories of the past. I felt completely immersed in history.
The brick wall of this arch is also lovely.
This is the breakfast venue, located just inside the entrance lobby. The portion of the house visible in the photo above—with its red roof, walls, and windows—was actually part of the original structure. The breakfast area itself was added as an extension to what used to be the front yard. In the past, the house only extended as far as that red-roofed section, and there was no ceiling. With its red roof, colored fixtures, and wooden walls, you can truly feel the history of the British colonial era. It’s simple and cozy. By the way, the kitchen is now located inside the roofed house area!
Now, the Noordin Street House, a two-story property (with only one room featuring a loft on the third floor), has just 10 rooms. Each room boasts unique interior decor, so you’ll never get bored even if you stay multiple times! After a grueling day of sightseeing, return home exhausted and switch into “princess mode” the moment you see this lovely canopy bed. It’s the dream bed! Plus, you can use the canopy to keep bugs away while you sleep, making it highly practical. (In fact, there were no mosquitoes when I actually stayed in this room.)
The doors and furniture in the room are made of wood, which is a lovely touch! This is a TRIPLE ROOM designed for three guests, and it is not possible to add an extra bed.
Breakfast options include Western dishes and local food. It’s simple, but incredibly delicious. You can choose how you want your eggs—soft-boiled, sunny-side up, omelette, and more. As expected from Malaysia, the world’s No. 2 egg consumer! Since they cook your order fresh, you get to enjoy it hot and ready, making your morning truly happy (^_-)-☆. Fresh orange juice (probably 100% pure) is also available with free refills, which is a lovely bonus!
It can sometimes take a while for your order to arrive after you’ve placed it. But hey, this is Malaysia—the land of “slow living”—so please be patient and go with the flow! HaHa!
This hotel attracts many Western guests, who greet you with a cheerful “Good morning!” Feel free to strike up a conversation in English! ☆彡
Beyond the bedrooms, the second floor features a shared living area that’s packed with cozy spots to relax—truly a delight! It feels like stepping into an antique exhibition, complete with vintage shelves, chairs, desks, sofas, and even round windows. Admiring the city view from the second-floor windows is a luxurious experience. Plus, the second floor also boasts an outdoor garden!
Head to the back of the first floor, and you’ll find the pool. It’s not very large, but it’s the perfect spot for friends, family, or couples to set up their favorite drinks by the poolside and enjoy a swim followed by some relaxation! It’s also a great place to enjoy some private, solo time.
It’s also fun to explore the bustling streets on a bike like this! (Although, this one is just for decoration!)
TIPS
For an absolutely must-try recommendation, head just a 2-minute walk from the hotel to Penang’s iconic B-class street food gem, “Hae Mee” (Bee Hoon/Mee), located in the small-scale Presgrave Street Hawker Centre, which is primarily Chinese-owned. It’s said to have long queues every day, and it was packed with people when I visited! They sell out quickly, so make sure to arrive early. Note that operating hours are irregular, and they may be closed during major holidays like Chinese New Year.
Right on the same street as this hotel, you’ll find Noordin Mews. However, it’s a separate hotel, so make sure not to mix them up! The two are reportedly unrelated.
If you can’t find the place, just say “71 & 73 Noordin Street, near Komtar and 1st Avenue Mall in Penang George Town,” and locals will know exactly where you mean.
WiFi available
No bathtub
Noordin Street House: Key Selling Points
“Prime location + local chic” × “Indoor pool + rooftop garden” – With plenty of relaxing spaces, you won’t get bored even on a long stay.
A Simple Room Overview – Perfect for Couples and Families, but Absolutely Amazing for Solo Travelers Too!
SCARLET TRIPLE ROOM (3 guests, no extra bed available)
VELVET FAMILY ROOM – Up to 4 guests (1 extra bed available upon request)
ORGANZA FAMILY ROOM / Split-Level (4 guests, 1 extra bed available)
SATIN DOUBLE ROOM 2 Guests (Extra bed not available)
CHIFFON Double Room (Sleeps 2, 1 extra bed available)
BATIK DOUBLE ROOM 2 Guests (1 Extra Bed Available)
SUTERA DOUBLE ROOM – Sleeps 2 (1 extra bed available upon request)
PELIKAT DOUBLE ROOM (Sleeps 2, 1 extra bed available)
Songket Double Room – Sleeps 2 (1 extra bed available)
SILK FAMILY ROOM (ATTIC) 4 Guests (1 Extra Bed Available)
As of September 1, 2017, Malaysia has introduced a tourism tax of RM10 per room per night, which is charged separately from the accommodation fee (payable on-site).
Nett: Price inclusive of tax
Surrounding environment – subject to change.
The symbol of George Town, Penang, is the Komtar building, the tallest skyscraper in the state. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the Norden Street House, and with a bus and taxi terminal located right beneath Komtar, access is incredibly convenient!
The top of Komtar is being transformed into a new tourist attraction with the recently renovated observation deck “The Top,” along with lounges and bars. “The Top” features the Rainbow Skywalk, a bridge made of reinforced glass, offering a thrilling experience as you walk on glass at the 68th floor. For more details, visit: http://thetop.com.my/
Address of Noordin Street House
73, Lebuh Noordin, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
