When you walk through the doors of the Prestige Penang, you’d be forgiven for thinking you had stepped onto a movie set. This is no accident. The hotel is thematically inspired by Christopher Nolan’s 2006 thriller The Prestige, blending playfulness with class to ensure a memorable stay in Georgetown’s UNESCO-listed quarter. Prepare for illusion and magic at every corner – think levitating beds, hidden doors, and an infinity pool overlooking the old harbour.
Conveniently located just minutes from the Georgetown Ferry Terminal, The Prestige stands out with its pristine white façade amid the vibrant chaos of Penang’s historic streets. Inside, the grand colonial shell gives way to a crisp, contemporary interior — a playful tension that mirrors Penang itself: rich in history, alive with modern energy. Designed by the visionary Singapore Ministry of Design, the hotel is a reimagining of a 20th-century warehouse (or ‘godown’), transformed into something that feels like it shouldn’t work, but absolutely does
Why stay at The Prestige
Let’s face it, most people visit Penang to experience the endless culinary delights Georgetown has to offer. With this in mind, you want to be within walking distance of said delights. The Prestige provides just that: a prime location without compromising on relaxation or space. Everything you might need (or want) is within 15 minutes of the hotel.
But its location isn’t the only reason to stay. The Prestige is a stylish, well-run hotel that gets the essentials right. It offers a thoughtful, design-led experience at a far lower price than similar hotels in other Malaysian cities.
Rooms start at around £100 a night, which is excellent value given the overall quality. Food and drinks come at a slight premium, but just about anything you can buy outside the hotel feels like a bargain.
If you’re after a hotel that nails aesthetics and comfort, while feeling just a little bit magic, this is your place.
What are the rooms like at The Prestige?
Each room is a quiet play on space. There are honeyed brass lamps, crisp linens, and a glass-enclosed rainforest shower that doubles as art. One hiccup? Lighting controls that demand a bit of practice. The room feels crisp and cool, with the white bedding contrasting with the classy brass interior.
Rooms at The Prestige all channel the same contemporary look but vary in size and extras. The Originals and Deluxe are ideal for solo travellers or couples, with the Deluxe offering a free daily-replenished minibar (a real treat).
If you need a bit more breathing room, the Executive Deluxe and Premier Deluxe give you extra space to sprawl, with the Premier accommodating an extra bed. The Deluxe Trio is a clever choice for families or friends, with a king and single separated for a bit of privacy.
But if you’re going to do it, do it properly. The Loft Suite is a split-level gem with a mezzanine bedroom, downstairs lounge and exclusive access to the Cutter’s Lounge for free snacks and evening drinks.
What are the best things to eat at The Prestige?
The main dining spot within the hotel, The Glasshouse, is an Insta-dream. The well-lit minimalist interior and tropical plants create a fresh and airy space. It serves everything you’d want - traditional Malaysian dishes, a ridiculous selection of fruit and juices, and the expected international breakfast classics.
The à la carte highlight is the much-loved Malaysian classic ‘roti canai’; buttery and flaky while somehow still feeling clean. Staff are incredibly helpful and will happily make you takeaway coffees or send food up to your room. The hotel's ground floor doubles up as a shopping arcade, with no shortage of snack options. My personal favourites were the pandan cake and bubble tea.
Outside of the hotel, Penang Famous Samosa is a must. Ridiculously cheap, ridiculously tasty. Michelin guide inspectors haven’t shouted about this place for nothing - just go.
What are the best things to drink?
Slide into a seat at The Reserve Bar and order whatever the bartender recommends. I went in for a tequila concoction scented with local dill, lychee and lime and walked away impressed (and a bit tipsy).
If you’re after something alcohol-free, try the Day Dream, an unusual mocktail boasting yuzu and butterfly pea; the local blue flower dyes much of the rice you see across Malaysia.
What is the service like at The Prestige?
The service is polished and efficient, though definitely on the formal side. If you’re after laid-back beach-resort vibes, you might be left a little cold. That said, staff are more than happy to help with anything you need, from arranging taxis and dinner reservations to offering local tips; just don’t expect casual chit-chat. The sleekness of the service reflects the overall tone of the hotel: refined and quietly self-assured.
What are the facilities like at The Prestige?
The hotel boasts several standout facilities. The rooftop infinity pool feels like Penang’s best-kept secret. It’s impossible to go up there and not take a swim. The white cabanas overlook the old harbour, perfect for enjoying a cold beer as you take in the sounds of the city. Top tip: if you’re not too hungover, get up there in the morning for a solo sunrise swim.
The hotel also has the biggest-smallest gym ever (just trust me). Mirrors fill every wall of the space to make it feel far less claustrophobic than it should. It’s quiet enough to have a quick workout, particularly if you feel guilty about all the local delicacies you’ve been enjoying.
The in-house spa offers a range of indulgent treatments, including signature aromatherapy massages, reflexology, and facial therapies using locally sourced botanicals. Booking in advance is recommended.
What’s the area like around The Prestige?
Wander down to Little India, where Bollywood tunes float through the air and spice-scented stalls sit beside colourful sari shops. Or head to the famous Clan Jetties; century-old Chinese stilt villages that feel beautifully frozen in time.
A short stroll brings you to Armenian Street, home to some of Penang’s best street art murals, quirky cafés and vintage stores. And if you’re in the mood to lean into the backpacker vibe, wander over to Love Lane for casual bars, chilled-out hostels and laid-back coffee spots.
Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery is a legendary local spot with a well-earned Michelin star. Expect rich Nyonya flavours in dishes like the fragrant Nasi Ulam, spicy-sweet Chicken Curry Kapitan and addictive Kueh Pie Tee. It’s delicious and has the proper taste of old Penang.
Why you should book a stay at The Prestige
The Presige is a great place to stay if you want to explore all that Penang has to offer. It’s stylish without trying too hard, indulgent without being stuffy, and conveniently placed to make exploring Georgetown effortless. Book for the rooftop pool, stay for the minibar snacks.