Perched on Jalan Penang in the heart of George Town, Cititel Penang is a 19‑storey hotel that consistently earns high marks for its central location. With an 8.2/10 overall guest rating on Booking.com and a location score of 9.1/10, it appeals to both leisure and business travellers seeking value in a UNESCO World Heritage setting. This review examines what the property offers, from its indoor pool and buffet dining to its connectivity options, drawing on verified guest feedback and official data.
Last checked: 2026-06-10
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Property name: Cititel Penang ·
Address: 66 Jalan Penang, George Town, 10450 Penang, Malaysia ·
Check-in / Check-out: 3:00 PM / 12:00 PM ·
Airport shuttle: Available (via Jayride.com) ·
Key amenities: Indoor pool, sea views, central location, buffet dining ·
UNESCO status: Located in UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town
How we researched this
Last checked: 2026-06-10.
Sources reviewed: official property website, Booking.com listing, TripAdvisor reviews, Expedia listing, Hotels.com listing, Facebook page, YouTube traveler reviews, Jayride.com.
No on‑site visit, no staff interview, no independent price verification.
Snapshot of Cititel Penang
Star Rating
- 4‑star hotel (Cititel Penang official site)
Location
- 66 Jalan Penang, George Town (Booking.com)
Guest Score
- 8.2/10 overall; 9.1/10 for location (Booking.com)
Weekend Buffet Lunch
- RM80 per adult, RM38 per child (Cititel Penang official site)
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Property name | Cititel Penang |
| Address | 66 Jalan Penang, George Town, 10450 Penang, Malaysia |
| Check‑in / Check‑out | 3:00 PM / 12:00 PM |
| Airport shuttle | Available (via Jayride.com) |
| Key amenities | Indoor pool, sea views, central location, buffet dining |
| UNESCO status | Located in UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town |
What is Cititel Penang known for?
Cititel Penang is best known for its location in the heart of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel rises 19 storeys and offers sea views from many rooms. On Booking.com, it scores 9.1/10 for location, with one guest describing it as a ‘superior location’ (Booking.com). The property features an indoor swimming pool and a buffet restaurant that serves a Weekend Family Buffet Lunch (RM80 per adult) and a Seafood & Roast Buffet Dinner (RM105 per adult), per the official site.
While the pool is noted as small by some reviewers on TripAdvisor, it provides a view over the city. The official site markets the hotel as a business‑friendly property, highlighting workspaces in rooms and conference facilities (Cititel Penang official site).
“An architectural landmark by itself in the city and standing a magnificent 19‑storey high in the heart of George Town, Penang, is the 4‑star Cititel Penang.”
Cititel Penang official site
The bottom line: its central address is the primary draw, making it a practical base for exploring George Town’s markets and eateries.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Star rating | 4‑star |
| Building height | 19 storeys |
| Address | 66 Jalan Penang, George Town |
| Check‑in / Check‑out | 3:00 PM / 12:00 PM |
| Parking | Free self‑parking; valet available (Expedia) |
| EV charging | Electric vehicle charging station (Expedia) |
| Key amenities | Indoor pool, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, meeting rooms, 24‑hour front desk |
| Room features | Free Wi‑Fi, workspace (Hotels.com) |
Pros
- Central location in UNESCO heritage area (9.1/10 location score)
- Affordable rates reported at RM150–RM280 per night
- Clean and comfortable rooms praised in multiple guest reviews
- On‑site buffet dining with clear pricing
- Friendly staff noted in both Booking.com and Facebook reviews
Cons
- Indoor pool is small, described as a jacuzzi‑style facility rather than a lap pool
- No outdoor pool or beach access (city‑centre trade‑off)
- Airport shuttle pricing not publicly listed
How far is Cititel Penang from the airport?
Cititel Penang sits approximately 20 km from Penang International Airport, a drive of about 30 minutes by car. The hotel offers a pre‑bookable airport shuttle via Jayride.com; guests can contact the property for exact pricing and scheduling. Independent YouTube reviewers report paying around RM150–RM280 per night for standard and ocean‑view rooms, making the combination of affordable rates and a short transfer appealing.
Getting there from the airport is straightforward. Taxis and ride‑hailing services are also available, but the hotel’s official shuttle provides a pre‑booked option for those who want certainty.
The implication: for travellers arriving by air, the travel time is manageable and well within the range of a typical city hotel.
Does Cititel Penang have a nice view?
Yes, many rooms offer sea views. On Booking.com, the property is described as providing ‘beaut sea views’ (Booking.com). TripAdvisor reviewers also mention ‘spectacular views’ from the jacuzzi pool area (TripAdvisor). However, the view depends on the room category; standard rooms may face the city. The trade‑off: opting for an ocean‑view room typically costs more (around RM280 per night per YouTube reviews) but delivers the scenic payoff.
“A lovely jacuzzi swimming pool with spectacular views. The room itself was clean, functional and comfortable.” For a more in-depth look at the airline’s offerings, you can read our Singapore Airlines Premium Economy review. Singapore Airlines Premium Economy review
TripAdvisor guest review
The catch: the view is a genuine asset for the upper floors, but budget rooms may not include it – check the room type before booking.
Does Cititel Penang offer airport shuttle?
Yes, an airport shuttle is available through Jayride.com. Guests are instructed to contact the hotel directly for pricing and scheduling (Jayride.com). The property also provides free self‑parking and valet parking for those driving from the airport. The catch: the shuttle is not a free service, and pricing is not publicly listed, so you will need to request a quote.
For travellers who prefer flexibility, taxis and ride‑hailing services are also readily available at the airport.
Alternatives to consider
Cititel Express Penang – operated by the same group but positioned as a budget hotel with fewer facilities. Located in George Town, it suits travellers who prioritise price over amenities like a pool or large meeting spaces (Yelp).
Hard Rock Hotel Penang – a beachfront resort in Batu Ferringhi with outdoor pools and entertainment, for those who want a resort experience instead of city‑core access.
A typical day at Cititel Penang
Start the morning with breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, then walk to nearby attractions like Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion or Khoo Kongsi, both within a few minutes’ walk. Return for a dip in the indoor pool, which offers city views. In the evening, book the Weekend Family Buffet Lunch or the Seafood & Roast Buffet Dinner at the hotel’s dining outlet (RM80 and RM105 per adult respectively, per the official site). Many guests pair their stay with a visit to the nearby night markets and hawker stalls, all within walking distance of the hotel.
Our pick: who is Cititel Penang best for?
Cititel Penang is a solid choice for first‑time visitors to Georgetown, heritage enthusiasts, and budget‑conscious couples. With a 9.1/10 location score and rooms starting around RM150 per night, it offers excellent value for those who want to be steps away from the UNESCO heritage core. The indoor pool and buffet dining add convenience, though the pool is best suited for a quick soak rather than serious swimming. If you are planning a beach holiday, consider the alternatives in Batu Ferringhi; but for exploring the heart of George Town, this hotel delivers.
Frequently asked questions
What are the check‑in and check‑out times at Cititel Penang?
Check‑in is at 3:00 PM and check‑out is at 12:00 PM (noon).
Where is Cititel Penang located?
The address is 66 Jalan Penang, George Town, 10450 Penang, Malaysia (Booking.com). It is situated in the UNESCO World Heritage zone of George Town.
Does Cititel Penang have a buffet?
Yes, the hotel offers a Weekend Family Buffet Lunch at RM80 per adult and RM38 per child, and a Seafood & Roast Buffet Dinner at RM105 per adult and RM39 per child, as listed on the official site.
How do I book the airport shuttle?
The shuttle is available via Jayride.com. Guests should contact the hotel directly for pricing and to make a reservation.
Is parking available at Cititel Penang?
Yes, free self‑parking is provided on‑site, and valet parking is also available (Expedia).
Which area of Penang is best to stay in?
For heritage and food access, George Town is the best area. Cititel Penang is located inside the UNESCO zone, close to major attractions and hawker stalls.