Standing proudly on the seafront of Lebuh Farquhar since 1885, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang — affectionately known as the E&O — is one of Southeast Asia's most storied heritage hotels. Founded by the legendary Armenian Sarkies brothers, who also established The Raffles in Singapore and The Strand in Yangon, this magnificent 5-star property has welcomed writers, dignitaries, and discerning travellers for well over a century. Today, it remains a shining jewel in the heart of the Georgetown UNESCO World Heritage Site, seamlessly blending old-world colonial elegance with every modern luxury a guest could desire.
The hotel comprises two distinctive wings across its 232 suites. The Heritage Wing is the original historic heart of the property, recognisable by its iconic Moorish minarets and soaring echo-dome lobby. Following a comprehensive restoration completed in December 2019, this wing re-emerged with 100 meticulously refurbished suites that honour the building's colonial grandeur whilst introducing contemporary comforts. The Victory Annexe, which opened in 2013 on the site of the original annex first unveiled by Arshak Sarkies in 1923, offers a more contemporary interpretation of the Eastern colonial style with modern studio suites, an infinity pool, and sweeping views of the Andaman Sea.
What sets the E&O apart from other luxury hotels in Penang is its extraordinary sense of place. Every corridor, every archway, and every polished timber floor tells a story. Guests who stay in the Heritage Wing enjoy exclusive privileges including complimentary afternoon tea and coffee from 12:00 to 18:00, as well as evening canapés and drinks from 18:00 to 19:00 in the Heritage Lounge. Whether you are visiting Penang for its famed street food, its vibrant arts scene, or simply to soak in its multicultural heritage, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel offers a base that is as memorable as the destination itself.
The Victory Annexe Studio Suite is an excellent entry point into the E&O experience, offering 55 square metres of thoughtfully designed living space. Each suite is furnished with either a king-size bed or twin beds set upon polished hardwood floors adorned with fine rugs. The highlight of this suite category is the private balcony, which provides unobstructed views of the seafront and the Penang cityscape beyond. Inside, the generous marble bathroom features a vintage-style claw-and-ball freestanding bathtub flanked by twin vanity sinks, with a separate rain shower. Modern amenities include complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a UHD flat-screen television with satellite channels, an espresso machine, a tea station, and a minibar stocked with a curated selection of beverages and snacks. The Victory Annexe Studio Suite comfortably accommodates up to two adults and is ideal for couples or solo travellers seeking a contemporary yet heritage-inspired retreat.
Stepping into the Deluxe Suite in the Heritage Wing is like stepping back into a beautifully preserved chapter of Eastern colonial history. Measuring approximately 57 square metres, this suite category features a separate living area and a bedroom furnished with a king-size or twin beds. Expansive windows and doors open to reveal breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea, flooding the space with natural light. The bathroom continues the theme of refined luxury with classical claw-footed longbaths, marble surfaces, and premium toiletries. Guests in the Heritage Wing Deluxe Suite benefit from the exclusive Heritage Wing privileges, including daily afternoon refreshments and evening canapés in the Heritage Lounge. With its combination of generous living space, period furnishings, and sea-facing panoramas, the Deluxe Suite is a superb choice for travellers who wish to fully immerse themselves in the hotel's storied heritage. Maximum occupancy is two adults.
For those who desire even more space and luxury, the Premier Suite in the Heritage Wing offers approximately 79 square metres of refined accommodation. Available with a choice of a private balcony or a garden terrace, every Premier Suite is sea-facing and furnished with either a king-size bed or twin beds. The separate lounge area is generously proportioned, making it suitable for relaxing, working, or entertaining in-room guests. The capacious bathroom features the signature claw-footed longbath, twin vanities, a separate shower, and premium bath amenities. Additional in-room features include a UHD flat-screen television, espresso machine, tea-making facilities, a minibar, and complimentary Wi-Fi. As a Heritage Wing suite, guests enjoy all the exclusive lounge privileges that make this wing so special. The Premier Suite is ideally suited for couples, honeymooners, or business travellers who appreciate having extra room to spread out.
The Straits Suite represents one of the most prestigious accommodation categories at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang. Named after the Straits of Malacca that shimmer beyond its windows, this expansive suite is among the largest in the Heritage Wing, offering a truly generous footprint that includes a sizeable lounge, a separate bedroom, and a lavishly appointed bathroom. Furnished in the elegant colonial style that defines the Heritage Wing, the Straits Suite features a king-size bed, classic period furniture, fine fabrics, and carefully chosen artwork that pays homage to Penang's multicultural past. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views of the sea, whilst the bathroom includes a freestanding longbath, premium amenities, and marble finishes throughout. Guests staying in the Straits Suite enjoy the full complement of Heritage Wing privileges, as well as the sense of occasion that comes with residing in one of the hotel's flagship suites. This category is perfect for special celebrations, anniversaries, or any stay where only the finest will do.
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang offers an impressive array of facilities spread across both its wings. Two outdoor swimming pools provide ample opportunity for a refreshing dip — the Heritage Wing features a classic garden pool set amidst lush tropical landscaping, whilst the Victory Annexe boasts a stunning sixth-floor infinity pool that appears to merge with the Andaman Sea on the horizon. A poolside terrace bar at the Victory Annexe serves cocktails and light refreshments, making it an ideal spot for sundowners.
Wellness is well catered for at the PAÑPURI Organic Spa, a full-service spa offering a range of treatments including hot stone massage, sports massage, and traditional Thai massage, with dedicated couples' treatment rooms available. The 24-hour fitness centre is equipped with modern cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, and also provides a sauna, steam room, and yoga classes for guests who wish to maintain their exercise routines whilst travelling.
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and on-site parking is provided for guests who arrive by car. The hotel also offers a 24-hour concierge service, room service around the clock, and a dedicated business centre. For guests arriving from Penang International Airport, a roundtrip airport shuttle service is available for a surcharge — arrangements should be made at least 48 hours prior to arrival.
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel occupies a prime seafront position at 10 Lebuh Farquhar, in the very heart of Georgetown's UNESCO World Heritage Zone. This coveted location places guests within easy walking distance of many of Penang's most celebrated landmarks and attractions. Fort Cornwallis, the largest standing fort in Malaysia, is just a short stroll along the Esplanade. The Penang City Hall, Penang State Museum, and the ornate Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Little India are all reachable on foot within approximately 13 minutes. The famous Clan Jetties, including Chew Jetty, lie roughly 1.5 kilometres to the south, whilst the iconic KOMTAR tower and Prangin Mall are a short drive away.
Penang International Airport is located approximately 17 kilometres south of the hotel, with journey times of around 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. A Grab ride from the airport costs from approximately RM 35 to RM 55. Alternatively, guests may arrange the hotel's own airport transfer service. For those arriving by ferry from Butterworth on the mainland, the Penang Ferry Terminal at Weld Quay is situated just 2 kilometres from the hotel. The Penang Sentral transport hub on the mainland connects to KTM rail services, making the E&O accessible for travellers arriving from Kuala Lumpur or other peninsular destinations by train and ferry.
Georgetown itself is best explored on foot or by trishaw, and the hotel's central location makes it an exceptional base for discovering the city's renowned street art, heritage shophouses, temples, mosques, and churches. The hotel concierge can arrange guided heritage walks, food tours, and day trips to attractions such as Penang Hill and the Tropical Spice Garden.
Dining at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel is a highlight of any stay, with four distinctive restaurants and bars offering a wealth of culinary experiences. Sarkies, the hotel's signature all-day dining restaurant, is named after the founding family and serves an outstanding buffet breakfast featuring a generous spread of Malay, Indian, Chinese, and Western dishes. In the evenings, Sarkies transforms into one of Penang's most celebrated dinner buffet destinations, renowned amongst locals and visitors alike for the quality and variety of its offerings. The al fresco terrace overlooking the sea provides a particularly atmospheric setting for evening dining.
1885, the hotel's award-winning fine dining restaurant, takes its name from the year the E&O first opened its doors. Recognised by Malaysian Tatler as one of Malaysia's best restaurants, 1885 offers an exquisite colonial fine dining experience with a menu that draws on both Eastern and Western culinary traditions. The restaurant also serves a traditional English afternoon tea — a ritual that feels entirely fitting within the E&O's grand surroundings, complete with tiered cake stands, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
Sarkies Corner is a charming colonial-style café ideal for lighter fare. Guests can enjoy freshly baked pastries, cakes, gourmet sandwiches, and specialty coffees throughout the day in a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere. For evening drinks, Farquhar's Bar in the Heritage Wing offers a classic long bar setting with both indoor seating and outdoor tables, perfect for savouring a gin and tonic or a craft cocktail as the sea breeze drifts in. Additionally, the Planters Lounge in the Victory Annexe offers continental dishes and plays host to a daily complimentary cocktail hour from 17:00 to 19:00 for all hotel guests — a wonderful tradition that encourages guests to gather, mingle, and toast another splendid day in Penang.
Unrivalled heritage and history. Few hotels in Southeast Asia can match the E&O's storied past. Having hosted luminaries for over 140 years, the hotel offers an authentic connection to the grand era of Eastern travel. Every detail, from the restored Moorish architecture to the museum-quality furnishings, speaks to a legacy of excellence that simply cannot be replicated by newer properties.
A seafront location in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel's position on Lebuh Farquhar places guests directly on the waterfront and within walking distance of Georgetown's finest heritage attractions, street art, temples, and food stalls. It is one of the very few luxury hotels in Penang that combines a genuine beachfront setting with immediate access to a vibrant, culturally rich city centre.
All-suite accommodation. Every room at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel is a suite, ensuring that guests enjoy a level of space and comfort that goes well beyond a standard hotel room. Whether you choose the contemporary Victory Annexe or the historically rich Heritage Wing, you are guaranteed a generous living area, premium amenities, and sea views.
Exceptional dining without leaving the hotel. With four restaurants and bars on site, guests can enjoy everything from lavish buffets and fine dining to casual café fare and sunset cocktails. The complimentary daily cocktail hour at the Planters Lounge adds a generous touch that is warmly appreciated by returning guests.
Heritage Wing privileges that elevate the experience. Guests in the Heritage Wing enjoy exclusive access to the Heritage Lounge, with complimentary afternoon refreshments and evening canapés — a refined perk that transforms an already luxurious stay into something truly special.
Book during the shoulder season for the best value. Penang's peak tourist season runs from approximately November to February, coinciding with drier weather and the year-end holiday period. For more favourable rates without sacrificing good weather, consider visiting between March and May or September and October. The hotel often features seasonal promotions during these quieter periods, which can represent excellent value at a property of this calibre.
Choose your wing based on your priorities. If heritage atmosphere and exclusive lounge privileges are important to you, opt for the Heritage Wing — the Deluxe Suite offers a wonderful introduction to this experience. If you prefer a more contemporary feel with a stunning infinity pool and private balcony, the Victory Annexe Studio Suite is an outstanding choice. Both wings share access to all hotel facilities, restaurants, and the complimentary Planters Lounge cocktail hour.
Request a higher floor for the best views. Sea-facing views are a defining feature of the E&O experience. When booking, it is worth noting your preference for a higher floor to maximise the panoramic vistas of the Andaman Sea and the Straits of Malacca. The hotel is generally accommodating of such requests when availability permits.
Arrange airport transfers in advance. If you wish to use the hotel's airport shuttle service, remember to contact the property at least 48 hours before your arrival. Alternatively, ride-hailing services such as Grab offer convenient and affordable transfers from Penang International Airport, with fares starting from approximately RM 35.
Take advantage of the breakfast buffet at Sarkies. The morning spread at Sarkies is widely regarded as one of the finest hotel breakfasts in Penang. If your rate does not include breakfast, it is well worth adding it to your booking. The variety of Malay, Indian, Chinese, and Western dishes ensures there is something to delight every palate, and the al fresco seating overlooking the sea makes for a truly memorable start to the day.
Check for packages on Traveloka. Before finalising your reservation, browse the available packages on Traveloka, as bundled deals that include breakfast, spa credits, or airport transfers can offer meaningful savings compared to booking each element separately. Signing in to your Traveloka account may also unlock member-exclusive rates and additional discount codes for the Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang.
Popular Facilities | |
Check-In / Check-Out Time | From 15:00 - to 12:00 |
Breakfast Availability | Yes, hotel has room that provide breakfast |
Available rooms at Eastern & Oriental Hotel | 232 |
Number of floors in Eastern & Oriental Hotel | 4 |
Another facilities in Eastern & Oriental Hotel | Front desk, Laundry Service, 24-hour security, Luggage storage, 24-hour front desk |
