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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Penang

INSIDER PENANG ITINERARY for 2024

Penang is the second smallest state in Malaysia and consists of two main parts. The Penang mainland, and Penang Island. The island is connected to the mainland by two road bridges, one of which is the longest oversea road bridge in Southeast Asia.

The province boasts great diversity in culture, ethnicity, language, and religion- which makes it a very interesting destination for travel. It also has an incredibly beautiful coastline and cities that seem to rise up along the ocean.

The area is perfect for sunset chasers, adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by culture and diversity. It’s time to start planning your very own Penang itinerary for one incredible holiday!

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Best time to visit Penang

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While planning your itinerary, you need to know when to visit Penang.

Penang has a very stable climate with temperatures varying very little throughout the course of the year. This means planning your Penang trip will be an absolute breeze.

The only thing you really need to consider is the rain, humidity, and whether or not you’re willing to visit during monsoon season. These monsoons are not particularly dangerous most of the time, however, they certainly will interfere with your planned outdoor activities.

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Monsoon season takes place in April and May, and should probably be avoided if you don’t enjoy a good deal of rain.

Penang’s busy season takes place between mid-November and February. The weather is warm (just like the rest of the year), but the lack of rain makes Penang travel a whole lot easier!

Every traveler has a different preference for their travel, so here’s what you can expect from Penang all year round!

Penang is a world-renowned exotic holiday destination, which means there’s an overwhelming amount of places and areas to stay in . Whether you’re into the hustle and bustle of city living or prefer to rough it in a small fishing village, Penang is sure to have something to suit your taste.

George Town is the capital city and our first recommendation for where to stay in Penang. It has been named one of the most interesting and colorful cities in all of Malaysia, it’s no wonder it made the top of our list.

The city has a charm like no other. Walking down the streets you’ll see an eclectic mix of colonial buildings, Chinese storefronts, and ornate mosques. You can indulge in top-class street food and delicious coffee while exploring its many landmarks.

Bayan Lepas is situated on Penang island, just an express route away from George Town. It’s a highly affordable option that still gives you easy access to Penang attractions. The area was started as an agricultural village and has now become the industrial hub of Penang.

However, it is more than just a charming village and is now home to some incredible Penang points of interest. So if you’re spending more than two days in Penang, consider adding this area to your Penang itinerary.

Best Hostel in Penang – House of Journey

House of Journey is located in the heart of George Town’s historical zone, making it easy to access many of the best Penang landmarks. The cozy interior makes you feel right at home, and the buffet breakfast provided every morning doesn’t hurt either! They also offer free city maps and guidance for those planning on touring Penang.

Best Airbnb in Penang – Central apartment great for City- Breakers

Situated yourself right in the cultural heart of Penang ith this George Town apartment. This affordable and well-maintained place is the perfect jumping-off point to explore the eclectic mix of sights, sounds and aromas that abound in Penangs city centre.

Best Budget Hotel in Penang – Tune Hotel

Tune hotel, located in George Town, has a colorful exterior that hides the modern, stylish interior. The hotel offers free WiFi in all it’s rooms and is just a five-minute walk away from Penang’s famous skyscraper. The air-conditioned rooms also offer a much-needed break from the warm climate.

Best Luxury Hotel in Penang –  Eastern & Oriental Hotel

The Eastern & Oriental Hotel offers absolute luxury accommodation for travelers looking for just that little bit extra from their trip to Penang. An outdoor swimming pool is perfect to cool off from the heat, and their on-site restaurant and bar come in handy when spending a relaxing afternoon sunbathing by the pool.

• Best Backpacker Hostels in Penang
• Best Airbnb Rentals in Penang

While you’re planning a trip to Penang, you’re going to need to find out the best ways to get around the province. If you’re traveling from Penang Island to the mainland, taking a bus or ferry is your best option.

If you’re traveling long distances across the province, or from town to town, taking a bus is a great option. Unfortunately, Penang’s public transport system is severely lacking, so buses are the main form of public transport.

Hailing a taxi is also an option, however, transport costs become exponentially more expensive when traveling via taxi.

Hiring a scooter is a great way to get around Penang. It gives you a great amount of freedom and means you won’t have to plan your Penang itinerary around bus routes and times. You can also travel anywhere in the province on your scooter, which allows you to take a trip a little off-the-beaten-track.

Most of the cities and towns in Penang are easily walkable, in fact, we actually recommend that you walk. This allows you to find hidden gems apart from the main landmarks during your vacation in Penang.

Now that you know how to get around Penang, you can start putting together your very own Penang itinerary with the activities below!

Tropical Spice Gardens | Fort Cornwallis | Suffolk House | Khoo Kongsi | Little India | Batu Ferringhi Night Market

Spend the first day of your Penang trip itinerary exploring the many interesting cultural sites and landmarks that make up the wonderful Penang district. Take a Penang walking tour, or explore on your own, either way, you’re sure to stay well entertained!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Stroll Through the Tropical Spice Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: The tropical spice gardens were created to pay homage to all the beautiful herbs and spices found in this part of the world.
• Cost: Entry – USD $4, Guided Tour – USD $6
• Food nearby: Tree Monkey is a fantastic restaurant with outdoor seating in a beautiful and green setting. They serve absolutely delicious Thai food, and the presentation is exquisite. Be sure to order one of their many famous vegetable dishes, they’re sure to keep you coming back for more!

There’s no better way to spend your morning than walking around the aromatic and beautifully scented garden. The incredible Penang Tropical Spice Gardens cover an impressive six acres of land and are home to over 500 different plant species. As you walk through the gardens, you’ll be blown away by the myriad of smells and tastes that you encounter.

The Tropical Spice Gardens are ranked as one of the top attractions in Malaysia and are an absolute Penang must-do!

The tour is perfect for anyone interested in Malay flora and fauna, as your knowledgeable guide will teach you about the plant-life during the tour. You can even take a cooking class on the premises that will teach you how to use herbs and spices in your cooking to create fantastic Malay style dishes.

There are also plenty of audio tours that allow you to explore the gardens on your own, and experience the wonderful power of these aromatic plants.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Visit Fort Cornwallis

• Why it’s awesome: Fort Cornwallis was built in the 18th century, but never actually engaged in any combat.
• Cost: USD $5
• Food nearby: Hameediyah Restaurant doesn’t look like much from the outside, but is an absolute gem! They serve a variety of really great seafood and meat dishes, as well as a variety of wonderful vegetarian meals. This restaurant truly has something for everyone’s taste.

Fort Cornwallis is the largest standing fort in Malaysia and was built by the British East India Company three centuries ago! The fort was named after the governing general of Bengal at the time, Charles Cornwallis.

The main building in the fort is the oldest roofed building still standing from the colonial times. This gives it a great history, which you will certainly learn about during your time at the fort.

There is also a small chapel on the premises, which has become a very popular place for weddings to take place in Penang.

You’ll discover a range of old canons that decorate the fort, the largest of which has been named Seri Rambai and was cast all the way back in 1603!

There is also a lighthouse at the fort that looks like a ship’s mast and serves absolutely no navigational purposes, but it makes the fort all the more interesting. Spending the mid-afternoon exploring the fort gives you great insight into the history of Malaysia, especially during the colonial period.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Have Tea at Suffolk House

• Why it’s awesome: Suffolk House is a prime example of colonial architecture in Malaysia and is located on a very scenic part of Penang Island, called Air Itam (meaning Black Water).
• Cost: Entrance is free!
• Food nearby: China House is a mixture between a bar, cafe, gallery and shop, and it serves all of these purposes so well! They serve a wonderful assortment of patisseries and cakes, as well as making delicious meals for their guests.

Just a 15-minute drive from Fort Cornwallis, Suffolk House is a colonial-style building in a very beautiful part of Penang Island. The house is also known to be the only surviving Georgian Mansion in Penang, making it all the more special!

Suffolk House was home to a few of the British Governors that governed Penang, giving the place a great history to discover! The house has been wonderfully restored to its former glory, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the things to see in Penang that you simply must visit!

The house is furnished with original Anglo-Indian antiques giving it a very vintage feel and adding to the romantic atmosphere.

Be sure to stop by for high-tea or lunch at the Suffolk House Restaurant on the premises that offer an assortment of great meals. However, if you’re already full, then amble around the grounds while enjoying the many beautiful sights along the way!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Explore Khoo Kongsi

• Why it’s awesome: Khoo Kongsi is an iconic Penang attraction that was once a clan-house.
• Cost: Free to enter!
• Food nearby: Kebaya Dining Room is just a six-minute drive from Khoo Kongsi and serves an exquisite array of dishes. A fine-dining atmosphere paves the way perfectly for their well-presented meals! You’ll be able to order from their Chinese-style menu before tucking into a wonderful dessert.

If you’re wondering what to do in Penang, then visiting Khoo Kongsi simply must be on your Penang Itinerary. It was once a clan-house, but has now been turned into a museum that features many interesting stone carvings with heavy Chinese influences!

The temple was built in the 19th century and has a few astounding features that are likely to blow you away! The architecture in itself is amazing, and shows off a myriad of different colors! One of the temples’ signature features is it’s alter. It has been decorated with gold leaf, and inlaid with ancestral tablets!

Ornate decorations also hang from the ceilings, making this museum a whole lot of fun to explore! Be sure to take your camera along for this epic adventure into the interesting history of Malaysia’s past.

The ancient clan-house has managed to retain its historic setting, which can be seen in the association building, a traditional theater and the row-houses that were built for clan members in the 19th century.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Wonder Around Little India

• Why it’s awesome: Small but vibrant area in Penang that makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a different country.
• Cost: Free to explore!
• Food nearby: There are plenty of street food options in Little India, but if you feel you want to sit and have a meal, then Indigo Restaurant is a great option! Here, you’ll be able to indulge in a delicious three-course meal and even enjoy their late-night dining option. They serve some of the most Instagrammable dishes in Penang, so be sure to snap a pic before you tuck into your meal!

Take the evening to stroll through the streets of Little India, a small area just outside of George Town that has a completely different feel to the rest of Penang. You may even think you took a wrong turn and landed up in the wrong country! (But that isn’t the case.)

Little India is where you’ll find a large collection of Tamil people who add a cultural vibrancy to the area. You’ll notice a wide selection of shops, selling everything from Sari’s to perfume and incense at great prices! Take this opportunity to do a little bargain hunting during your trip; brush up on your haggling skills , and you’re sure to buy some souvenirs at a steal.

Many of the shops blast Bollywood music into the streets, making the whole area come alive in the evenings. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Penang to sample Malaysian street food , so save your stomach for a taster or two.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Go Shopping at Batu Ferringhi Night Market

• Why it’s awesome: The fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun sets! Spend the night shopping for bargains at one of the best things to do in Penang at night.
• Cost: Free to browse!
• Food nearby: After all the eating you’ll be doing during your first day in Penang, you’re sure to be stuffed. However, if you’re still feeling peckish, there are plenty of snacking options at Batu Ferringhi Night Market.

Stroll around the Batu Ferringhi Night Market and browse the many interesting stores. You’ll find handmade jewelry, knock-off designer goods, and many other inexpensive souvenirs. Clothes, bags, watches, and DVDs are all things you can expect to find.

Soak up the lively atmosphere as you walk around the market, and don’t forget to try some of the tasty treats on display. It really doesn’t get better than freshly prepared Malaysian meals on the go!

Insider Tip: Keep in mind that it’s important to haggle with the stall owners, as you’ll more than likely end up paying more than you should!

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Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque | Batu Ferringhi Beach | Peranakan Museum | Snake Temple | Penang Hill

If you’re spending a second day in Penang before traveling elsewhere in Malaysia , you’ll need a two-day itinerary. Here are a few of our favorite activities that are a must-do during your travels.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Explore Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque

• Why it’s awesome: This interesting architectural feature of the Penang skyline accommodates 1,500 worshippers at a time.
• Cost: Entrance to the mosque is free, but if you’d like to take a guided tour then additional fees will apply.
• Food nearby: The Hillside is just a few minutes’ drive from the floating mosque. They have various indoor and outdoor seating options that provide wonderful views. The restaurant is stylish and makes for the perfect breakfast spot for the second morning of your weekend in Penang! Their breakfast options are absolutely delicious and range from healthy fruit salads to breakfast pizzas.

Waking up early in the morning to take a stroll through the floating mosque is arguably one of the best ways to start your morning in Penang. The mosque was built on stilts over the water, which is why it’s referred to as ‘floating’.

The mosque is placed in a beautiful part of Penang. You’ll get the chance to appreciate the stunning views of serene beaches while you amble through the ornate building on the water.

The mosque has many Middle-Eastern elements that are sure to leave you awe-inspired. The essence of this building is sure to stay with you throughout your visit to Penang! The mosque is the first and only mosque to have the ‘floating’ element to it, so you’re guaranteed a unique experience.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Bask in the Sun at Batu Ferringhi Beach

• Why it’s awesome: Batu Ferringhi is known as one of the best beach areas on Penang Island!
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: The Ferringhi Garden Restaurant is a great place to stop for a bite to eat. Eat surrounded by lush greenery. It includes options for every diet, including gluten-free.

If you’re on sole reason for a vacation in Malaysia is to dip your toes in the sand and bask in the glorious sun, then spending the mid-morning on Batu Ferringhi beach is the best way to catch a killer tan!

This long strip of golden sands stretches as far as the eye can see, and gives you plenty of space to escape the crowds if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday! Part of the beach is lined with resorts that look over private sections of the beach. Spending the day at one of the resorts is sure to be a treat, and will see you sipping on cocktails as the hours pass you by.

Take a picnic along with you for the adventure, or simply try some of the incredible street food that the vendors have to offer.

Insider Tip: You simply must try Malaysian curry and a variety of noodle dishes while you visit Penang! They are completely unique from the Asian and Indian dishes that you’ll find in other parts of the world, and use a comprehensive blend of flavors that bring each dish to life.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Visit the Peranakan Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The Penang Peranakan Museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Peranakan people that moved to Malaysia.
• Cost: Adults – USD $5, Children under 6 – Free!
• Food nearby: Tek Sen Restaurant is a simple eatery that isn’t much to look at, but the food is absolutely delicious and it has become a local favorite. Choose between a range of Thai and Malay fusion dishes, or indulge in a buffet-style meal that allows you to try a little bit of everything!

If one thing is for certain, it’s that Malaysia and Penang in particular is a very diverse area. It contains cultures from all over the world, making it a very interesting place to explore!

The Peranakan Museum in Penang is dedicated to telling the story of the Peranakan people that moved to Malaysia many years ago. These people are also often referred to as Straits Chinese. The Peranakans are descendants of Chinese settlers that moved to Malaysia between the 15th and 17th centuries.

Within Malaysia, they developed a unique culture that was a blend of Malay and Chinese customs. The Peranakan Museum will teach you about the customs and traditions of these people, as well as showcasing some of their traditional art and antiques found in many of their homes.

On display, you’ll also see a recreation of a 19th-century traditional Peranakan house to get a better feel for their culture.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Take a Walk Through Snake Temple

• Why it’s awesome: The snake temple is also known as the temple of Azure Cloud and Pure Cloud Temple.
• Food nearby: Uncle Lim’s Recipe serves a variety of unique Malay dishes with a twist. The food is absolutely delicious and served in generous portions. Many of the locals that work nearby stop at Uncle Lim’s Recipe for lunch before heading off to finish their workday.

The snake temple is located in the southwest region of Penang Island, and was built in honor of Chor Soo Kong, who was a Buddhist priest and healer. The legend tells the story of the monk who provided the shelter for snakes in the temple, and after his death they welcomed themselves in on their own.

It was then thought that all these snakes were disciples of the monk, so they were allowed to stay. You’ll now find a variety of venomous Wagler’s pit vipers and green tree snakes that have taken up residence in the temple.

The temple was completed in 1850, and ever since then, it has been the home of many snakes.

If you’re looking for a heart-pumping and thrill-seeking adventure, then taking a trip to the snake temple is enough to get your adrenaline pumping. The snakes are fed, and so a little less dangerous than you might imagine, but it still makes for a very interesting activity!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Stop Off at Penang Hill

• Why it’s awesome: After a full day of exploring, we recommend you take a tram ride to Penang hill and kill two birds with one stone!
• Cost: Free to visit Penang Hill!
• Food nearby: David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terrace offers a delightful ambiance, and is the perfect place to have a romantic dinner after visiting Penang Hill! Enjoy a glass of wine with your delicious meal under sparkling fairy lights that add a bit of magic to the beautiful garden setting! Be sure to order one of their wonderful desserts to share after your meal.

Penang Hill is one of the main attractions in Penang, and it rises an impressive 812 meters above sea level. Penang Hill actually covers a number of hills but the most prominent being Western Hill, which is exactly where you should visit!

The hill is a beautiful forested area and the best way to get to the top is via Penang Hill Railway, which has a funicular that transports guests to the top. The trip to the top is all part of the fun, and is completely unique to Penang Hill as there are no other funicular railways in Malaysia!

Once you’re at the top, you’ll get the chance to see stunning views of Penang City below! The reason we suggest this activity as the last one of the day, is because being on top of Penang Hill while the sun sets is absolutely spectacular.

Because it’s so warm all year round, you can stay on the hill for hours enjoying the twinkling lights of the city below you. Be sure to bring your travel camera so you’ll never forget these picturesque views! This is an activity you simply must add to your itinerary for Penang!

House of Journey

House of Journey is located in the heart of George Town's historical zone, making it easy to access many of the best Penang landmarks. The cozy interior makes you feel right at home, and the buffet breakfast provided every morning doesn’t hurt either! This is definitely one of the best places to stay in Penang!

• Free Breakfast

Butterworth | Upper Penang Road | Penang National Park | Batu Ferringhi | Butterfly Farm

If you’re staying a little longer in this wonderful district of Malaysia , you’re going to need a few more Penang things to do! You need to know where to go in Penang to find the most interesting activities and tourist destinations that this area has to offer.

Visit Butterworth on a Ferry

• Take a ferry from Penang Island to Butterworth.
• Experience part of the Malaysian mainland.
• Take in unique views of George Town from the mainland!

Butterworth is well worth a visit while you’re in the area, and could be considered the best place to stay in Penang in three days. It has easy access to Penang Island and George Town, as well as being a part of the mainland, which gives you easy access to other parts of Malaysia.

Just a short ferry ride from George Town will land you in the wonderful town of Butterworth. While you’re there you should spend some time relaxing on the magnificent beaches and enjoying views of the crystal clear water, as well as of George Town just across the water.

You should then visit Apollo Market, which is a huge marketplace that consists of over 500 hawkers. You can really pick up a great bargain at this market, or simply indulge in some delicious street food and browse the other stalls!

For a cultural experience of note, catch a movie at the Lotus Five Star Movie Theater. Here you can watch the latest Hollywood reruns, or try something completely different and catch some of the best Bollywood films on the circuit! Many of them are in Hindu, but subtitles are provided, so you’re sure to understand what’s going on!

Before you head back to Penang Island, be sure to check out a temple or two and go on a little exploration of the town. This will help you get a little familiar with the other side of Penang!

Explore Upper Penang Road at Night

• Penang has a thriving nightlife scene, especially when compared to other parts of Malaysia.
• Boogie the night away with locals and tourists alike.
• Variety of bars and nightclubs.

Penang has a thriving nightlife scene and has more to offer than anywhere else in Malaysia! The center of this hub is in Upper Penang Road where you’ll find a great variety of bars and nightclubs to dance the night away!

Many of the nightclubs and bars have happy hour specials or nightly deals, so be sure to walk along the length of the road to find the best deals, as well as the atmosphere that best suits your taste! Whether you’re down for a night of partying and tequila shots, or chilled drinks at a bar, Upper Penang Road will have something to suit your fancy!

Some of the most famous and popular joints on the block are Slippery Senoritas and Soho Free House, which are both must-visits while you explore the wonderful nightlife of Penang!

When you’re done with all the partying you can handle, sit down at one of the many 24-hour restaurants on the block to regain your energy before heading back to the hotel.

Visit Penang National Park

• Experience nature at its best while visiting Penang National Park!
• The park is used by scientists, conservationists as well as nature lovers.
• See an array of fascinating wildlife.

The Penang National Park consists of overgrown jungle with winding footpaths that will lead you through the immense natural thickets. This national park is the smallest in Malaysia but by far one of the most beautiful!

It is located just an hour outside of George Town, making it easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. Walking through the National Park is an absolute delight. You’ll experience nature at its best and even spot fascinating birds and other wildlife.

You’ll eventually reach a beach where you can spend a good portion of the day sunbathing, or get one of the locals to take you on a boat trip to see a little more than the island.

If you’re an adventurer at heart, spending a night in the National Park is an option, just be sure to rent a tent and camping gear before you head off Bear Grylls-style into the bush!

Indulge in Water Sports at Batu Ferringhi

• Get your heart pumping as you glide over the water
• Try a variety of thrilling water sports provided at Batu Ferringhi Beach
• Be a thrill-seeker or simply take a relaxing day to fish

Batu Ferringhi is known for its great variety of activities on offer at the seashore. Locals have set up many businesses catering to the adventurous needs of the tourists that visit the quaint island.

If you’re in the mood to get your heart pumping, then rent a jet ski and go gliding through the water at great speeds! Parasailing is also an option for those who want to try something a little different.

If you’re looking for a good few laughs with your travel buddies, be sure to take a banana boat ride to see who can hold on the longest.

If you’re in the mood for a relaxing afternoon, then going fishing is a great way to spend a few hours. There are boats in the bay that are even willing to take you deep sea fishing. This is highly recommended for those who have a decent amount of experience.

Spend a Day at Butterfly Farm

• Plenty of beautiful flora and fauna to be seen
• You’ll find over 4000 butterflies
• 120 different species of butterflies call this farm their home!

Butterfly farm was opened in 1986, and has been working to preserve the natural environment of these lovely creatures. They also breed butterflies at the farm before releasing them into the wild.

The colorful gardens are home to a colorful variety of flora and fauna, which is perfect for anyone that loves plants. But the main attraction is the beautiful fluttering creatures that spread their wings and flutter about the gardens.

Butterfly Farm is known for the unique and rare species of butterflies that it contains, these include the Yellow Bird Wing Butterflies as well as Indian Leaf Butterflies.

There are narrow stone pathways that lead you through the garden, giving you the opportunity to explore the lush premises. Within the farm, there is also a 25-acre organic orchard, where you’ll be given the opportunity to sample incredibly delicious fruits!

If you love nature and all the magic it has to offer, then a visit to Butterfly Farm is highly recommended. They do so much good for conservation, as well as provide wonderful sightseeing opportunities for travelers and local guests!

If you’re going to travel to Penang, you’ll need a few useful tips about how to stay safe in the area. While Penang is generally a safe place in Malaysia to visit , there are still safety precautions that every traveler should take or know about before visiting Penang Malaysia.

The first thing you should watch out for is the wild monkeys that live in the cities and towns. While many of them are used to humans and are fairly tame, all monkeys are unpredictable and should be left well alone.

Even the nicest monkeys attack if they feel intimidated or scared. They’re also known to steal food from locals and foreigners, so it’s best to keep your snacks hidden! 

There have been a few reports of pickpockets on buses. They often use disguises or scams to distract you while they pinch your belongings. Be aware of this and always keep your valuables in a security or travel money belt that you can see and feel around you.

The weather in Penang is another thing you should watch out for. When it rains, it tends to rain for a long time, so it’s best not to visit during their rainy season. Many of the best Penang attractions are outdoors and won’t be any fun during a downpour.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Penang

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re spending three days in Penang or more, you’re going to need a few more activities to add to your Penang itinerary. Here are a few of our favorite day trips from Penang that are sure to spice up your trip!

Self-Guided Audio Day Trip From Penang Island

During this day-trip from Penang island, you’ll be able to take your sightseeing experience at your own pace, and see the many highlights that the island has to offer.

You’ll learn about the island’s rich cultural history and see the melting pot of cultures and influences that make Penang the diverse place that it is.

You’ll meet many merchants and traders along the way from countries like India, the Middle East, China, and Europe. If you’re looking to spend one day in Penang, this is surely the best way to spend it, immersed in the culture and meeting the interesting people that make up Penang Island.

Penang Street & Local Food Tour

On this four-hour tour, you’ll be lead around George Town’s neighborhoods and the surrounding area, by an expat that’s passionate about Penang and all it has to offer. You’ll be taken to a minimum of four different foodie destinations, tasting a variety of delicious Penang food.

This will range from small tasters and street food to full sit-down-meals at some of the best restaurants in the city. You’ll also explore markets that are known for their incredible and delectable variety of food choices!

If you’re looking for the perfect Penang tour that will help you understand the area and it’s people all the better, this is the perfect one for you!

Kuala Lumpur City Day Trip From Penang

During this wonderful sightseeing tour, you’ll be lead to the mystical city of Kuala Lumpur. You’ll explore Kuala Lumpur’s many iconic landmarks and historic sights . You’ll visit the sky-high Petronas towers, and see the country’s national mosque, which has become a prized treasure to the people of Penang.

You’ll explore the magnificent architecture of the Kuala Lumpur railway station before visiting a range of other wonderful Penang sights. You’ll be picked up from your hotel at the start of the tour and dropped-off safely afterward, saving your money on transport costs. This Penang trip itinerary will leave you with a hunger to see more of this incredible area!

Cameron Highlands Tour

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of busy city life, the Cameron Highlands tour is the one for you. You’ll head to Malaysia’s gorgeous countryside to experience absolute tranquility!

Your Penang travel guide will lead you to the Highlands and tell you about the great history of the area. You’ll explore many Buddhist temples that are nestled amongst the lavender and rose gardens before stopping to admire views over the tea plantations that stretch on for miles.

If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet during your Penang day tour, this is the perfect one for you!

Batu Caves, Waterfalls and Hot Springs – Penang Day Trip

If you’re looking for a day of excitement and adventure, as well as getting opportunities to take stunning photos, this is the right day trip for you!

You’ll start the day by heading to Batu Caves with their decorative and picturesque entranceway, before witnessing the cascading Kanching Falls. You’ll even get a chance to take a dip in the waterfall catchment area before continuing on your tour!

You’ll then visit the Selayang Hot Springs where you can dive into the water yet again. This is often considered one of the most Instagrammable tours in Malaysia, so don’t miss out on this picturesque experience!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Penang itinerary.

How many days do you need in Penang?

Three full days are plenty for exploring Penang’s top attractions.

What should you include on a 3 day Penang itinerary?

Make sure to include these Penang hotspots: – Tropical Spice Gardens – Khoo Kongsi – Batu Ferringhi Night Market – Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque

When is the best time to visit Penang?

November-February offer the best weather for exploring and are peak season for Penang. Crowds are smaller from September to October, but be prepared for rain!

Are there any day trips from Penang?

There are loads of epic guided tours and trips from Penang. Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands, and the Batu Caves are all within reach.

The wonderful state of Penang has so much beauty, culture and exciting experiences to offer. Now that you know all the best places to visit in Penang, you can start planning your very own Penang itinerary!

Whether you enjoy a holiday filled with lazy days by the pool or beach, or you prefer an adventurous fun-filled vacation of exploring small fishing towns, Penang is the place to be.

In recent years it has grown exponentially in popularity among tourists, as it offers an authentic eastern experience while still providing all the western luxuries we’ve come to love in a holiday destination.

Now that you’ve decided on what to do in Penang, put together your own ultimate itinerary to suit your personal taste! Don’t hesitate any longer, the wonderful state of Penang awaits your arrival! 

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Travel & Food, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

The PERFECT 2-Day Penang Itinerary (2024 Travel Guide) 槟城自由行

January 1, 2024 by Bino 8 Comments

One of Malaysia’s most popular destinations, Penang has always beguiled travelers with its age-old shophouses, fantastic street cuisine as well as enviable beaches. I have been to Penang quite a number of times over the years and there is always something new to check out with each visit. Whether you are a history buff or a foodie, this island off the Andaman Sea will always have something to offer. For a mix of all that Penang is known for (food, history, new attractions, etc), here is a well-balanced itinerary that you can easily do over a weekend in Penang.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Georgetown

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Georgetown is an excellent place to start in the island. Choc-full of colonial buildings, charming shophouses, temples, mosques and fantastic places to eat. People come here to do two things – to see the heritage buildings and street art or to eat some of Penang’s specialties – so the amount of time you spend here will depend on your interest level in the two activities.

Tip: If you are arriving via Penang International Airport, you may wish to pre-purchase a 4G sim card in order to save time and avoid potential queues. Prices are also slightly cheaper versus buying it on the spot.

Georgetown is generally walkable and should not take more than 20 or 25 minutes from one end to another. However, it can get searing hot especially during midday so you may want to take public transport. I personally take Grab. Point to point rides in Georgetown typically range from 3 to 5 MYR.

penang clan jetty by justin lau

The area around the Georgetown Ferry Terminal is a natural starting point for exploring Georgetown. Almost immediately to the west of it are the Clan Jetties – a series of villages floating on stilts by the coast. In total there are 7 villages here, each owned by a specific clan / family that still inhabit the houses on stilts to this day. The most popular of these villages is the Chew Jetty (although each jetty has its own attraction) which has its own temple as well as souvenir shops lining the narrow alleys.

wonder food museum (source: wonder food museum)

From the Clan Jetties, it is a short walk to the colorful Wonder Food Museum (49 Lebuh Pantai), a showcase of Penang’s culinary heritage and over-sized versions of some local dishes. While the replicas are a feast for the eyes, the exhibition also gives one a better understanding of regional cuisines. 

boy on motorbike street art in penang

The heritage zone also has plenty of street art and you can easily spend an entire day hunting them down. To the casual visitor, one of the most popular is the Boy on Motorbike (12 Lebuh Ah Quee), a 3D artwork consisting of a painting of a boy against an actual motorbike. It’s also a good idea to come here early in the morning before a small queue forms over those wishing to take a photo of the street art.

khoo kongsi georgetown by WIL | CC 2.0

Next, head to the nearby Khoo Kongsi (18 Cannon Square) for what is one of the most intricately designed clan houses in Southeast Asia. Similar in purpose to those found in places like Singapore, Hoi An, Melaka, etc – these clan houses served as the headquarters of family associations. There is an entrance fee of MYR 10 – pretty steep for a temple in Malaysia but worth it for the architecture. On certain evenings, Khoo Kongsi is also floodlit which makes the building’s details stand out even more. 

kapitan keling mosque by Bex Walton | CC 2.0

From here, it is just a short walk to the Kapitan Keling Mosque (14 Jalan Buckingham), by far the most picturesque among Georgetown’s Islamic buildings. The mosque was built in the 1800s by Penang’s Tamil Muslim community and is today recognized as one of Malaysia’s most prominent mosques.

penang’s blue mansion

It is a short stroll to the Pinang Peranakan Museum (29 Church Street) which showcases a home typical of a wealthy family from Baba Nyonya origins that are unique to cities along the Straits of Malacca (Melaka, Penang, Singapore and Phuket to an extent). There are over 1,000 antiques inside and you can easily spend hours marveling at the house. For an insightful look into Baba Nyonya culture, join one of the free guided tours. Alternatively, you can head over to the photogenic Blue Mansion , another one of Georgetown’s famous houses that’s open to visitors. For the full heritage experience, you can also book a room stay there inside the mansion.

delicious nasi ulam at auntie gaik lean’s

If you are feeling peckish by this time, I can’t recommend Auntie Gaik Lean’s enough for its delightful Baba Nyonya cuisine. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star during Michelin’s inaugural listing in Malaysia. Top of my list of dishes to order is the Nasi Ulam (rice salad) and Sambal Fish. Make sure to try the refreshing Nutmeg Juice as well. Alternatively, Sri Weld Food Court down the road has one of the best nasi lemak in Penang.

eastern and oriental hotel penang

The searing afternoon heat gives you enough reasons to chill a bit at the plush and historic Eastern and Oriental Hotel . Similar to the Raffles Hotel in Singapore and The Strand in Yangon, the E&O was built by the Sarkies Brothers in the 1800s and is today undoubtedly the most luxurious hotel in Georgetown. Food here is pretty good. Purists may slam me for saying that I prefer the char kway teow here but the extra servings of cockles and extra large prawns really won me over.

fine views at the new observation deck in komtar

Sunset is a great time to head up to Komtar ( book here for tickets ), the tallest building in Penang and once a glaring white elephant. In recent years, a private company has turned it into a tourist attraction after building 2 extra floors and a rooftop observation deck with a section made in glass. It is a must-see during the blue hour – against the sunset, city lights and the lights coming up on the glass observation deck.

Have a relaxing evening at Love Lane , a small alley containing plenty of bars, restaurants and backpacker guesthouses.

Day 2 – Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si and Batu Ferringhi

Spend your second day exploring attractions further afield, namely Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si as well as Batu Ferringhi.

canopy walk at the habitat in penang hill

Start the day early and head up to Penang Hill before the crowds do. The typical way up for most visitors is via the train which costs MYR 30 per adult and MYR15 per child (foreigners). Malaysians can go up for MYR 10 per adult and MYR 4 per child. Do note the train runs from 6:30AM to 9PM daily. The top affords stunning views of the entire island. For an even higher view, head up to the new attraction called “ The Habitat ” for an educational guided tour of the local flora as well as the treetop walk and canopy walk. While up here, grab a cup of coffee or have a meal at the David Brown restaurant and appreciate fine views of the island. If you prefer to have someone else arrange these trips to the outskirts, you can also book a private tour that will pick you up from your hotel and take you to both Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si. The main benefit is you do not need to worry about how you can get a cab once you’re in those locations. You can book the tour here .

Tip: Alternatively, for a taste of Penang’s coffee culture, head to Mugshot Cafe at Chulia Street. Aside from coffee, the venue is also known for its freshly-made bagel muffins. kek lok si temple by Michael Coghlan | CC 2.0

Afterwards, head to Kek Lok Si (you might want to use a ride sharing service such as Uber or Grab or book the private tour ). While there is certainly no shortage of temples in Penang or in Southeast Asia in general, this particular temple is a must-see for its hillside setting. The highlight of the temple is the hard-to-miss seven storey pagoda containing 10,000 statues of Buddha.

Tip: There is an endless list of hawker food to try in Penang including char kway teow and fried oysters. The best fried oyster place in Penang is said to be at Seng Thor Coffee Shop at Carvarvon Street.

batu ferringhi by mikhail kotykhov

It’ll well be mid-afternoon by the time you finish which is good enough reason to end your day at Batu Ferringhi – the most accessible stretch of beach in Penang. The area is lined by several resorts and I would personally recommend having dinner while watching the sunset. Do note that sunset in Penang occurs pretty late, at around 7:30PM usually. Alternatively, if you are looking for a family-friendly activity around the area, check out Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm . The highlight here is the enclosed garden area with more than 15,000 butterflies flying around you. It’s truly a sight to behold and something that kids will definitely love. You can book discounted tickets here .

If you are heading to Kuala Lumpur as well, check out this suggested itinerary for Kuala Lumpur . If you are heading to Melaka, check out my Melaka travel guide .

Travel Tips for Penang

• Travel Insurance: I buy travel insurance to be safe in this era of viruses, flight cancellations/delays and last minute changes. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. They have a promotion that comes with S$10 cash rebate that helps to cover the insurance cost. 
• Transport: In Penang, you don’t have to worry even if you are not staying in the city center. Ride-sharing apps such as Grab allow you to book a “cab” at the local price. Even if you stay in Batu Ferringhi for instance which is a 15 minute drive from the old town, the fare is only around 10 – 15 Ringgit.
• Car Rentals: In the post-pandemic era that we are in, some folks prefer to avoid public transport in order to minimize interactions with strangers. Car rentals have become more popular nowadays. You can check out deals here
• Dining Culture: The local cuisine is really one of the highlights in Penang. While the ambiance of most local eateries may be lacking, the food is superb. In this city, each eatery tends to specialize in just one dish – be it laksa, char kway teow (fried noodles), carrot cake, fried oyster, etc. Since the local taxis are so cheap, the idea of taking a cab from one eatery to another for multiple small bites isn’t at all far-fetched and is actually being practiced by many tourists in the know.

Where to Stay in Penang

Penang’s hotels are usually quite affordable even in the 4-star or 5-star categories so I would suggest splurging a bit for a more refined stay. Here are my recommendations after visiting Penang a number of times:

In Georgetown, staying at Eastern and Oriental Hotel is like hitting two birds with one stone. It is in itself a tourist attraction. At the same time, you get to bask in colonial luxury. Stay in the newer Victory Annex for some fine seaside views. Among midrange options, Campbell House offers one a colonial living experience, complete with antique phones in the guestrooms as well as Peranakan accents in the bathroom. For a budget option in Georgetown, you can check out SAVV Hotel which has been renovated recently. You can also check out other hotel options in Penang, including cheaper options here .

the parkroyal penang resort

In Batu Ferringhi, the Parkroyal Penang Resort is a good family-friendly midrange option. The Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Resort is the place to go if you’re looking to stay at Penang’s most luxurious hotel. The Rasa Wing in particular is noted for having a gigantic outdoor tub!

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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March 15, 2018 at 3:21 pm

Hello Bino… I stayed 4 years in Malaysia but never come to Penang. So pitty that time just got busy to work.

August 8, 2018 at 12:55 am

thank you very much for the recommendation Bino. Definitely will go to Penang this August with your itinerary,

September 25, 2018 at 10:09 am

What is the best transportation to reach from one place/to other place as your recommendation?

September 28, 2018 at 11:14 am

I usually take a ride share service like Grab when in Penang. It’s inexpensive.

April 6, 2019 at 4:38 am

I am considering to visit Penang. Please whats is best way to travel to Penang from Kuala Lumpur Any tour guide recomendation and contact. What to see in 2 days period.

April 6, 2019 at 10:16 am

That is already what this article is about – what to see in Penang in 2 days. To get from KL to Penang, you can fly domestic.

September 1, 2019 at 5:59 pm

Thanks for such a helpful and useful 2 days itinerary . Definitely go to Penang tomorrow.

January 20, 2020 at 11:48 pm

Thank you for sharing your ITI..Im a solo traveler and thinking to go to Penang this coming Jan 31, 2020.

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Penang Itinerary: How To Spend 1 to 5 Days in Penang, Malaysia

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

George Town, Penang, Malaysia is a top travel destination – and it’s easy to understand why. Penang Island boasts incredible street art, delectable local cuisine, lush nature, amazing beaches and a well-preserved history. For our trip, we created an absolutely perfect Penang Itinerary and are sharing it with our fellow travelers!

How Many Days in Penang, Malaysia?

In our Penang, Malaysia Itinerary, we outline the best way to spend 5 days in Penang. We think that is the ideal amount of time to visit all of the George Town Penang attractions, abundant nature and sunny beaches. 

However, we understand that some are planning a Penang one day trip, while others only have 2 days in Penang or are trying to plan a 3 day Penang itinerary. To help travelers create the best itinerary to Penang, we outline alternative Penang itineraries for shorter stays at the end of the article.

About Our Penang Itinerary 5 Days

Our Penang 5 Day Itinerary covers the best Penang destinations. We highlight the top things to do in George Town Penang – as well as feature top Penang Island tourist spots, like beaches and temples. 

For each day, we detail what to see in Penang and include informational details about each attraction. Additionally, we provide a useful Penang attraction map with tourist spots so that you can easily route your way to each sight.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Penang Travel Guide to plan your trip to Malaysia!

George Town, Penang History

Before we jump into what to see and do in Penang, Malaysia, let’s talk a little about the history of Georgetown Penang. 

The city of George Town in Penang, Malaysia is the country’s second-largest city (after Kuala Lumpur ) – and the Penang tourist spot. Many of the top things to do in Penang are in the historical core of George Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but there are top attractions in Penang just outside the city center, too.  

Origins of Georgetown

Understanding the history of George Town in Penang, Malaysia is essential in making sense of the differing architectural styles and sights in the city.

Established as a port by the British East India Company in 1786, George Town officially became a British Colony in 1867. It wasn’t until 1957, when George Town became independent.

Because of the many different cultures that settled in George Town, the architecture is incredibly varied. Temples are found just steps from mosques and traditional Peranakan row houses are found just around the corner from grand colonial structures. The differing styles are what makes the George Town historical core the most interesting place in Penang. 

Penang Street Art

Whether taking a Penang 1 day trip or creating a 5 Day Itinerary Penang, seeing Street Art should be part of your trip plan. 

After earning the UNESCO World Heritage Site title in 2008, the city sought ways to present its history – and “Marking George Town Street Art” was the winning idea in 2010. Using steel rods, a team of artists created 52 sculptures that humorously tell the story of the town. The popular project, which integrated art into existing features on buildings, paved the way for other street artists.

Penang Art District

In 2012, Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevic, painted a series of murals in George Town called “Mirrors George Town” that depict scenes of everyday life. His street art often incorporates tangible items into the murals and invites viewers to be interactive with the art. Since then, Penang has been flooded with artists leaving their mark on buildings all over town. 

Street Art Penang: What To See

Because seeking out street art is one of the top things to do in Georgetown Penang, we have included the most popular wall art murals in our Penang trip plan. That said, there are numerous works of art throughout the town that are lesser known, but still interesting. 

The Best Penang Itinerary  

Our day-by-day itinerary outlines what to see in Penang, Malaysia. In addition to must see sights, we also include a few unusual things to do in Penang. 

DAY 1: Visit Penang Itinerary

Day 1 of our Penang trip itinerary begins near the Penang port, Swetternham Pier, and includes the top 30 places to visit in Penang in George Town. We outline a self-guided walking tour of the must-visit places in Penang. In the afternoon, cool down with a cold drink at a café. Then, partake in the best night attraction in Penang, feasting on fabulous street food. 

What To Do in Georgetown Penang

Spend the day on a self-guided Penang city tour that features the best George Town, Penang attractions. On our self-guided George Town day tour, we have highlighted 30 Penang historical sites, Georgetown attractions and Penang street art sites.

Georgetown Penang Attractions Map

We’ve included a Penang attractions map of sights at the end of the post that include markers for all 30 stops on our outlined George Town city tour. You can also pick up a Penang tourist map at the airport or tourist information center.

Walking Tour Penang: A Self-Guided George Town, Penang Sightseeing Tour

Seeing George Town sights is a must-do in Penang! Gorgeous architecture and intriguing art murals are the highlight. No need to worry about where to go in George Town, Penang – our outlined Penang city tour itinerary includes the best places to visit. 

Our walking tour in Penang could take as little as 3 hours. However, we recommend slowing your pace, savoring the sights and spending an entire day sightseeing in George Town. 

#1 Queen Victoria Memorial Clock (Jubilee Clock Tower)

Start your Penang day tour walking expedition at the Queen Victoria Clock. Standing at Light Street and Beach Street is the Memorial Clock that was dedicated to the queen in 1897 to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee.

#2 Fort Cornwallis

Canons can be seen on the walls of Fort Cornwallis, a fort built in the 18th century by the British East India Company. It is one of the top places in Penang to learn about the history of the city. 

#3 Penang Town Hall and City Hall

Two historic places to visit in Georgetown Penang that are still used as originally intended are the Town Hall and City Hall. Built in the 1880s by the British, the Town Hall was used for social functions and administration offices. The City Hall building was completed in 1903. 

#4 St. George’s Anglican Church

Designated a National Treasure of Malaysia in 2007, St. George’s Anglican Church, which was consecrated in 1819, is one of the top Colonial tourist attractions in Penang George Town. The Neo-Classical structure features Doric columns, a gable roof and an octagonal steeple.

#5 Church of the Assumption

Designated a World Heritage Church, the Church of the Assumption dates to 1860 and is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Malaysia. 

#6 Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion

Designed as a traditional Chinese house, the Blue Mansion was built in the 19th century by Cheong Fatt Tze, a successful business man, for his family. Today, the landmark building is both a museum and a boutique hotel and it’s one of the most interesting places in Penang to visit. Tours are offered (for a small fee) a few times a day. 

#7 Trishaw Man Mural

As we mentioned, street art is a tourist attraction in Georgetown Penang – and the Trishaw Mural is the first artwork featured on our walking tour.

The 50-foot wall mural of a trishaw pedaler was painted by Ernest Zacharevic in 2012 and is one of his largest murals in the city.

#8 Thean Hou Temple

Renovated in 1995, the Thean Hou Temple features intricate stone carvings that depict Chinese stories and Hainanese culture. Although the temple is a Penang, Malaysia tourist spot, it is also a place of worship.

#9 Kung Fu Girl Mural

Also known as the Little Girl in Blue, the Kung Fu Girl mural was painted by Ernest Zacharevic and incorporates the building’s windows into the work of art. For many visitors, this artwork is a George Town sightseeing must-see. 

#10 The Indian Boatman Mural

Painted by Russian artist Julia Volchkova, the Indian Boatman mural is located on Stewart Lane, which is also called Boat Alley – a lane that once housed the Hainanese Mariners building.  

#11 Goddess of Mercy Temple  

Built in 1728, the Goddess of Mercy Temple is the oldest Taoist temple in the city. The temple is a Penang must-visit; both tourists and devotees visit with offerings and to light joss sticks.

#12 Pinang Peranakan Mansion

The opulent Peranakan Mansion museum is one of the historical places in Penang. Visitors can learn about the lifestyle of wealthy Peranakans (who are locally-born Chinese people, also called Babas and Nyonyas).

#13 Little India

Located in the heart of the city, the colorful Little India district is one of the top places to visit in Penang. Covering three streets, Little India is known for textile shops, Bollywood music and Indian cuisine. Visiting the Little India district is one of the top things to do in George Town, Penang.

#14 Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Built in 1833, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang. The entrance tower (gopuram) is 23-feet-tall and features incredibly detailed statues of gods and goddesses. Note: Visitors can only enter the temple from 6:30am to 12noon and from 4:30pm to 9:00pm – so if you want to go inside, be sure to keep an eye on the time while exploring George Town.

#15 Kapitan Keling Mosque

Built in 1801 and renovated in 1930, the Kapitan Keling Mosque sits in the center of the city in the Tamil Muslim neighborhood (and just steps from the Sri Mahamariamman Temple). The mosque was the first Muslim structure built in Penang.

#16 Yap Temple

The small, but classic, Yap Temple is a clan temple of Lum Yeong Tong Yap Kongsi House and one of the Penang interesting places to see. Inside the temple, the Yap family ancestral tablets are on display.

#17 Sun Yat Sen Museum (formerly Sun Yat-sen Penang Base)

Built in 1880, the residential dwelling was used by Sun Yat-sen (known as the founding father of the Republic of China) as the headquarters of his political party in the early 1900s. It was from this site that Sun Yat-sen gave a rousing speech, which led to the China Revolution of 1911 and the overthrow of the Qing dynasty.

#18 Penang Islamic Museum

Dedicated to the role of Islam in Malaysia, the Islamic Museum is housed in the 1860 villa. It is one of the places to visit in Penang Island to learn more about the diversity of Penang.

#19 Lebuh Aceh Mosque

Built in 1808 in the heart of the Muslim settlement, the Lebuh Aceh Mosque is most-known for its unusual Egyptian-style minaret.

#20 Reaching Up Mural

A painting by Ernest Zacharevic, the Reaching Up street art mural depicts a little boy standing on a chair and reaching up toward a small, square window.

#21 Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

The Chinese clan, Khoo Kongsi, can trace its lineage back 650 years. On your Penang visit, find the impressive clan house that is hidden among shophouses and dwellings.

#22 Armenian Street Penang

Once called Malay Lane for the Malays that settled on the street, in the early 1800s, the name was changed to Armenian Street for the Armenian traders that took up residence there. Today, the street is multicultural and is popular with tourists, who come in search of street art. Strolling the length of the lane is one of the best things to do in George Town, Penang.

#23 Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple

The pretty Taoist Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple was built in 1845 – and was once the meeting place for a secret Chinese society (which is why a Kuan Kong statue is placed on the roof).

#24 Children on Bicycle Mural

One of Ernest Zacharevic’s most loved pieces of artwork in Penang, Children on Bicycle is a small painting of two kids enjoying a bike ride…on an actual bike. It’s one of the best places to visit in Penang to see how real items can be incorporated into street art.

#25 Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Clan House

The ornate Cheah Kongsi dates to the year 1873 and incorporates multiple architectural styles, including Malay, Straits Chinese and European influences.  

#26 China House

The China House is a conglomeration of shops, cafes and galleries, which are housed in three historical buildings. The popular bakery is one of the best places in George Town, Penang for dessert – as the China House offers 30 different cakes.

Top Tip: Keep an eye out for the many opportunities to take fun Penang photos throughout the China House.

#27 Boy on Motorbike Mural

The Boy on Motorbike Mural, created by Ernest Zacharevic, depicts a familiar scene in the city: a motorbike driver looking over his shoulder for oncoming traffic. The mural incorporates the building doors and an actual motorbike in the painting.

To the left of Boy on Motorbike is Boy with Pet Monster Mural.   Also, painted by Ernest Zacharevic, Boy with Pet Monster Mural captures the imagination of a child. This is one of the most popular and best places to visit in Penang for Street Art. 

#28 Children Playing Basketball Mural

Artist Louis Gan (who is both deaf and mute) created Children Playing Basketball, utilizing a real basketball hoop.

#29 Brother and Sister on Swings Mural

The most popular painting in Penang by Louis Gan is Brother and Sister on Swings, which is on (now named) Step By Step Lane. The artwork uses a swing set and features the painting of two young kids standing on one swing, while the other swing is open for people to become part of the artwork. Top Tip: Go ahead, take a seat and snap a picture – posing with the artwork is one of the fun things to do in George Town, Penang, Malaysia!

#30 Chinese Clan Jetties

There are six clan jetties in George Town – and a top place to visit in Penang. Rather than sidewalks, planked boardwalks line the neighborhood of houses that stand on stilts over the water. Visitors are free to walk around, but should be mindful that they are essentially in someone’s ‘front yard’.  

Chew Jetty is the most commercialized and tourist-friendly of the clan jetties in George Town. Shops and cafes line the walkway and boats docked along the planks offer tours to visitors. However, respectful visitors are free to explore the other jetties as well. 

Kuan Yin Floating Temple Buddhist (Hean Boo Thean Temple) sits at the end of the Yeoh Jetty and is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Originally a small shrine on stilts, the temple was overhauled in 2012 and now features lights that illuminate the sea after dark.

After Your George Town Penang Walk

That wraps up our self-guided walking tour in Penang! After visiting the George Town attractions and famous places in Penang, give your feet a rest and cool off for a bit. Either head for a café, rest in the air-conditioning of your room or dive into the hotel pool (more on where to stay at the end of the post). 

In the evening, delve into the wonderful world of Penang food! We feature the best places to eat in Penang later in the article.

Looking for a Penang tour guide to lead the way through George Town? While our self-guided tour is one of the best free things to do in Penang, we understand that some travelers would rather the company of a professional guide for their city tour. Book one of the popular Penang tours – like this one. The private Penang city tour features the best of the city and includes hotel pick up!

DAY 2: Penang Activities on Penang Hill

Penang island attractions aren’t limited to the city of George Town! On Day 2 of your Penang itinerary, check out the top things to do in Penang Hill.

Located just 3.5 miles from George Town is a range of peaks, generally known as Penang Hill. Developed in the late 1700s as a British retreat, the hilltop remains popular today for it’s cooler temperatures and stunning views.

There are multiple top tourist attractions around Penang Hill. Temples, gardens and nature walks can be combined together to crate a one-day trip in Penang.

Getting from Georgetown to Penang Hill

Going to Penang Hill – and including multiple sites on your Penang day tour itinerary – requires transportation. While it is possible to use public transport to get to some of the attractions, we recommend taking a taxi or using the Grab app.

Renting a car for the day is another idea, but not an option we would recommend. Alternatively, you could hire a private driver or book a Penang Hill Tour Package.

Ascend to The Top of Penang Hill

The top things to do in Penang Hill…is go to the top of the hill! Although it is possible to trek to the top, riding the funicular is one of the fun things to do in Penang. The Penang Hill Railway transports passengers up the steep 1+ mile slope in about five minutes.

Once at the top, here are a few ideas of what to do in Penang Hill: Take in the vista from the viewing deck, take a nature walk to explore the flora and fauna and learn about the history of Penang Hill (including Bel Retiro and the bungalows).

Top Tip: Buy Skip-the-Line tickets in advance – this is essential if you plan on visiting more attractions near Penang Hill on this one-day Penang itinerary!

Kek Lok Si Temple

Located at the base of Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple is one of Penang’s top tourist attractions. 

The Buddhist Kek Lok Si Temple, which faces the sea, was built from 1890 to 1930. The complex is comprised of several structures – the most impressive being the seven-story, nearly 100-foot-tall Pagoda named Ten Thousand Buddhas. Also on site is a 99-foot-tall statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy (which was erected in 2002).

Top Tip: Book a private combo tour to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple for a better experience! 

Penang Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden is a top place to visit in Penang – and it can easily be included on your Penang Island tour on Day 2 of your itinerary. 

The Penang Botanical Garden, which was founded by the British, dates to 1884. Often called Waterfall Gardens, the park has numerous sections and is comprised of tropical rainforests, as well as collections of rare plants.

Walking paths weave through the park, where visitors might encounter resident monkeys. The Botanical Gardens are one of the most beautiful places in Penang to enjoy nature.

Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

Located near the Penang Botanical Gardens, the Hindu Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple is a peaceful Penang place to go – and is a must-see sight to include in your Penang day trip itinerary. 

Nicknamed Waterfall Hill Temple, the origins of the temple date to the 1800s. (Although, the current temple was just built in 2012). The temple features the largest Lord Murugan temple outside of India – and to reach the hilltop temple, visitors must climb 513 steps.

Top Tip: The temple is closed mid-day, re-opening at 4pm – which is why we include it as a last stop on your Penang 1-day trip itinerary. 

DAY 3: Penang Beach and Temples

On Day 3 of your Penang trip plan, you will embark on another one day trip in Penang to see iconic temples and spend the afternoon on the beach. 

The two temples we recommend visiting are located just north of George Town in the Pulau Tikus suburb – and they sit on opposite sides of the street. Because they are on the way to the beach, it is an easy detour to visit the temples, too. 

While there are several beaches in Penang, Batu Ferringhi is – by far – the most popular. Most of your day – and into the evening – will be spent partaking in the best Penang beach activities. 

Getting from Georgetown to Batu Ferringhi

As the Batu Ferringhi Beach is a Penang must visit, there are several ways to get there. The bus is the cheapest (but also the longest) method of transport. While a one-way taxi can cost around 75rm, it also only takes about 25 minutes to get there. 

Visit Penang Temples

Before sinking your feet into the sand, make a quick stop to see two beautiful temples. Pro Tip: You can use the public bus to get to these two temples…then continue your journey and hop on the bus to Batu Ferringhi. 

Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

The Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temples are both found on the same street, Burmah Lane, standing on opposite sides. It is a popular place in Penang for both locals and tourists to visit. 

The typically Thai-style Wat Chaiyamangalaram features one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world. Dhammikarama Burmese Temple dates to 1803, making it the oldest Buddhist temple in Penang, and is a colorful temple.

Batu Ferringhi

As an island, one of the top Penang places to go is the beach, which is why we recommend including Batu Ferringhi in your itinerary for Penang. Hands down, Batu Ferringhi has the best beach on the island. 

Boasting a 2.5-mile stretch of sand, the Penang beach in Batu Ferringhi is the most popular for both tourists and locals. The city evolved from a quaint fishing village to a resort haven in the 1970s.

The top things to do in Batu Ferringhi are beach activities, but other Batu Ferringhi attractions include a night market, cultural events and nature activities. We highly recommend staying into the evening to visit the Batu Ferringhi Night Market – it is a top Penang place to visit at night!

DAY 4: Discover More Things To Do in Penang Georgetown

After two long days of tours, spend Day 4 of your Penang Itinerary relaxing in George Town. Wander the streets without purpose, visit museums that you skipped on Day 1, go shopping or take a cheap ferry boat ride across the Straits of Malacca.

Explore Penang George Town without a Checklist

We featured some of the best places to to in Penang in our walking tour of George Town, but – trust us – there is so much more to see in the city!  Slow down the pace of your vacation in Penang and spend a few hours just rambling around town, letting your instincts guide the way. 

We guarantee you will find fun photo ops and other cool stuff to do in George Town when you just set off without a destination in mind. In fact, we think this is a must do in Penang! 

More Fun Activities in Penang

After a morning of freely exploring the city, spend the afternoon at a museum, shopping mall or on a ferry boat. We detail more options for top Penang, Malaysia things to do in more detail below.

DAY 5: Penang National Park Day Trip

What we love about longer Penang trips is that it really gives you enough time to discover the great diversity of the island. This is exactly what you will do on Day 5 of your Penang, Malaysia Itinerary. 

Penang National Park

For many people, the national park is one of the top Penang highlights of a trip. Home to secluded beaches and dense forests, Penang National Park can provide a full day of adventure. 

Penang NP is Malaysia’s smallest national park, but it offers an abundance of outdoor activities. Visitors can go jungle trekking, take a boat to visit the pristine Monkey Beach, stop by the Penang Turtle Sanctuary and hike up to Muka Head Lighthouse.

How To Get to Penang National Park (and How To Get Inside)

Travel in Penang is fairly easy using the local buses. From George Town, take the 101 bus to get to Penang National Park. The ride takes about 1.5 hours and costs 4rm. 

Once at the park, although it is free to enter, visitors are required to register with the park service (so bring a copy of your passport). Rather than sorting out the details on your own, join this half-day tour !

What To Do at Penang National Park

The National Park in Penang is a haven for nature lovers. The park features hundreds of species of flora and fauna – and it is a top spot to encounter wild monkeys. 

Trails lead through the thick canopied forests to stunning, untouched beaches – but it is not an easy trek. Hikers should bring plenty of water and be prepared for high humidity. 

More Things To Do in Teluk Bahang

Just outside the national park is the town of Teluk Bahang – and there are a few reasons to hang around after spending time in nature. 

Escape Theme Park

The Escape Penang Theme Park is an adventurous and fun attraction. The waterpark features pools and slides – as well as an obstacle course and ziplines. 

Penang Butterfly Farm

The Entopia Butterfly Farm in Penang is one of the fun things to do in Penang for families. The educational venue features butterflies and other insects – as well as lush gardens.

Tropical Spice Garden

A landscaped garden of herbs and spices, visitors can tour the grounds at their own pace with a helpful audio guide (via the app). Just be sure to grab some insect repellent for the mosquitos! 

Penang Food and Drink

Some people say the best thing to do in Penang is eat – which is why we dedicate an entire section of this Things To Do in Penang blog post to food. Even on a short trip to Penang, visitors should get a taste of the local food. We also include a few tips for where to go in Penang at night for a few drinks. 

Penang Foodie Haven

If you are wondering what to do in George Town, Penang for dinner, there is no need to agonize. Some foodies have labeled Penang as a Food Capital of the World for the incredible street food offerings that can be found throughout the city. In fact, many people travel to Penang just for the food (and we don’t blame them!). 

Penang food attractions include an array of cuisine – such as traditional Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes. We’ve heard it’s nearly impossible to have a bad meal in Penang, but we have a few meal suggestions for those interested in creating their own Penang food trip itinerary.

Street Food in Penang

Grazing on street food is one of the top things to do in Penang at night. Some of the best places in George Town, Penang for street food are in hawker stalls – and we always recommend eating from the stalls with the longest lines (which usually indicates the best food!). If you don’t have dietary restrictions, be adventurous! 

What and Where to Eat in Penang

We are highlighting the must-eat dishes in Penang – and the best place to eat them! We don’t have a separate Penang Food Map, but you will find all of our recommended dining establishments on our Penang Map below!

Char Koay Teow

Char Koay Teow (also sometimes spelled Char Kuey Teow) is a stir-fried noodle dish that ranks as a Malaysian favorite – and many stalls specialize in making this one and only dish. We like ours with chicken, shrimp and duck egg, but no cockles.

Recommended Place to Eat Char Koay Teow: Tiger Char Kway Teow located inside Kafe Ping Hooi, but they often run out of food by noon! Top Tip: Another stall at the cafe is Lobak King – order Siu Yuk Fried Pork and Lobak.

Tandoori Chicken

An Indian dish of marinated chicken roasted in a tandoor (clay oven).

Best Restaurant in Penang for Tandoori Chicken: Kapitan , open 24 hours. Also order Cheese Naan.

Beef Murtabak

Popular Malaysian street food, Murtabak is an omelet pancake folded around meat and vegetables and often cut into squares.

Top Restaurant in Penang for Murtabak: Hammediyah , a 100-year-old Penang restaurant; also order Nasi Kandar.

Like a spring roll, a thin crepe wrapped around a mixture of ingredients (turnip, jicama, beans, sprouts and bean curd being some key items).

Top Hawker Stalls in Penang for Popiah: New Lane Hawker Stalls .

Oyster Omelet (Oh Chien)

An egg-potato omelet made with small oysters and accompanied with spicy sauce.

Where To Get The Best Oyster Omelet Penang: New Lane Hawker Stalls.

Nasi Kandar

Originating in Penang by Indian Muslims, Nasi Kandar is a rice-based dish that comes with a variety of side dishes, such as fried chicken, beef or calamari and is topped with a spicy curry sauce.

Best Penang Restaurant for Nasi Kandar: Line Clear , which opened in 1930, is open 24 hours and is accessed via a narrow alley.

Considered the national dish of Malaysia, Nasi Lamek is a meal of fragrant rice garnished with cucumber slices, fried anchovies, peanuts, fried egg and sambal – a spicy sauce. It originated as a breakfast meal, but is now eaten any time of day.

Top Penang Foodie Breakfast Spot: Ali Nasi Lemak for a snack portion.

Crispy Duck with Rice

Chinese-style duck with rice. Crispy duck with noodles and crispy pork are two other popular items. 

Top recommended spot: Kimpo Famous Roasted , located inside Red Garden restaurant.

Noodle dish topped with char siew and pork-filled dumplings.

Best Street Food Wanton Mee: Chulia Street Wanton Mee Cart (the one with the longer line!).

Fruit Rojak

A Malaysian fruit salad with spicy, sweet and sour sauce. 

Best Place for Rojak: Gurney Drive Hawker Center

Penang Night Market

There is a Penang night market every day of the week – but in different places each night. The most popular one in George Town is the Monday Macallum Street Night Market .

International Food Penang

Need a break from Malaysian fare? There are a few international restaurants that might suit your palate! For a taste of Mexican, go to Holy Guacamole (quesadillas and tacos highly recommended!).

Food Tour Penang

If you are feeling timid about the experience of eating street food in Penang, let a guide lead the way on a Penang Food Tour! Local guides know where to find the best food in Penang – and sometimes share insider secrets with visitors. 

There are several food tours Penang that feature superb dining experiences – start your search for the top-rated tours on Get Your Guide . 

Penang Nightlife

We often struggle in Malaysia to find bars that fit our style and budget. As a predominantly Muslim nation, alcohol is not widely sold (or consumed) and it is never cheap. That being said, there are a few places to visit in Penang at night for a cold beer that should be on your Penang travel itinerary.

• Antarabangsa Enterprise – This liquor store with tables out front offers the cheapest and most fun drinking experience in George Town. 
• The Original Reggae Club – Chill bar where ladies drink for free until 9pm.

More Things To Do in Penang, Malaysia

Need more ideas? Well, we have a few more suggestions for Penang sights and activities. Use this list for ideas on the afternoon of Day 4 of our Penang Itinerary. 

Penang Museums

There are numerous museums in Penang. We already mentioned the Blue Mansion, the Peranakan Mansion and the Islamic Museum – but there are many other Penang museums to visit.

• Penang State Art Gallery – A good place to learn about the culture and people of Penang. 
• Penang War Museum – Built as a British fort, but used as a POW camp by the Japanese during WW2.
• Penang House of Music – Learn the history of Penang music in this highly-rated museum. Buy tickets in advance !
• Interactive Museums – Fun spots for Instagram photo ops, there are several museums in Penang that are designed to be interactive – like the Upside Down Museum, 3D Trick Art Museum and Made In Penang Museum.

Shopping in Penang

There are ample opportunities for Penang shopping – from wet markets to local products to mega malls. We are highlighting a few of our top choices.

• Hin Bus Depot Sunday Market – If you happen to be in Penang on a Sunday, support local businesses and artists at the Hin Bus Depot . 
• Chowrasta Market – For a traditional Malaysian shopping experience, head to Chowrasta – a wet and dry market, recently renovated.
• Gama Department Store – Visit the Malaysian Gama Department Store for a look at everyday shopping. 
• KOMTAR Mall and Viewing Platform – The 68-story KOMTAR building is an attraction on its own, but the lower floors host numerous stores and boutiques. Buy your ticket to access the top floor viewing deck in advance of your trip!

Penang Activities

• Escape Penang – We already mentioned this as an activity on Day 5, but it’s worth repeating. Escape is an adventure theme park that is fantastic fun for the family! It is often ranked as one of the most fun things to do in Penang with kids. Learn more !
• Snake Temple – As the name indicates, it is a temple filled with live snakes.
• Penang Spa – Pamper yourself with a traditional spa treatment! Read reviews for the best spa in Penang .

Google Map Penang

This Penang Travel Map includes all of the attractions and restaurants featured in our itinerary for Penang. You will also find the numbered sights that correspond to our Self Guided Penang Walking Tour on the Penang Map.

Use this  Google Map for an online version of our Penang tourist attractions map below.

Additional Penang Suggested Itineraries

Our above Penang tour itinerary features the top things to do in Penang in 5 days. However, we understand that vacation time is limited and not all travelers are planning 5 days on the island. To help, we have created ideal trip plans for shorter time – that squeeze in as much sightseeing as possible! 

Penang Half Day Trip

Visitors with only a half day in Penang will be challenged with creating a succinct trip plan. However, it is possible to see a lot of the city in a short time! On a DIY half day trip to Penang, we recommend using our outlined Self-Guided Tour to the top sights in George Town. 

Alternatively, visitors can book a Penang City Half Day Tour that highlights the best city sights – like this one!

Penang Itinerary 1 Day

For visitors limited to one day in Penang sightseeing, we created an ambitious itinerary. It focuses on the absolute best things to do in George Town, Penang and the surrounding region.

Begin your one day trip to Penang with one of the best activities in George Town: exploring the city on foot. Use our Self-Guided Walking Tour to discover the city sights. 

Because we think even a Penang 1-day trip itinerary should include sights outside of the city center, spend the afternoon at one of the must-visit places in Penang beyond the George Town. Select one place to see – like Penang Hill (buy your skip-the-line ticket in advance!) or one of the temples. 

End your Penang one-day trip by feasting on local Penang food specialties from street vendors or at top-rated restaurants.

2 Day Penang Itinerary 

Planning what to do in Penang in 2 days allows for more sightseeing and island exploration – but it is going to be a jam-packed trip! 

Day 1 – Take a quick self-guided tour of the best places in George Town, Penang. In the afternoon go to Penang Hill or Kek Lok Si Temple. If your hotel has a pool, cool off with a swim before indulging in tasty Penang Food for dinner.

Day 2 – Take a day trip outside of the city center to the best nearby attractions. First, visit Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple and then continue north to Batu Ferringhi for an afternoon of sea and sun at the popular Penang beach. Stay for the Night Market.

Penang Itinerary 3 Days

Deciding what to do in Penang in 3 days is a little easier – as you will have much more time to explore at a more relaxed pace! 

Day 1: Tour George Town, Penang (as outlined in our Self-Guided Walking Tour) at a more leisurely pace, including time to relax in cafes and visit museums – and maybe even swim in your hotel pool in the afternoon. At night, join one of the Penang Food Tours or set off to explore the food scene on our own. 

Day 2: Spend the day at the beach in Batu Ferringhi – but first stop and see the temples on the north side of George Town. Stay in Batu Ferringhi for the Night Market – and when you get back to George Town, hang out at one of the bars. 

Day 3: On the last day of your 3 days in Penang, spend another day outside of George Town – this time going to Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple, the Botanical Gardens and Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple (time your visit to the temple for sunset, if possible). 

Alternatively, you could create a 3 Days Penang Itinerary by following the above 2 day plan and then take a trip to Penang National Park.

Penang Itinerary 4 Days

With 4 days in Penang, you have ample time to create an itinerary that showcases the best of Penang. Plus, have plenty of time to devour more incredible Penang food! Our Penang 4-Day Itinerary looks like this:

Days 1, 2 and 3: Follow the above Penang 3-Day Itinerary.

Day 4: Choose between a day in nature at the national park or day of shopping near George Town. Alternatively, fill your last day by visiting some of the unique museums. 

Penang Travel Tips and Trip Planning

Now that you know what to do in Penang, Malaysia, we have a few tips about how to get to Penang, where to stay and our top packing hacks . You can find all of our travel tips on our Travel Planning Page . 

Planning a Trip to Penang

You will need to stay organized as you make your plans! Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of your research and bookings in Penang and throughout Southeast Asia. 

Getting to Penang

The best way to get to Penang is by plane via the Penang International Airport (PEN). That said, the city can also be reached by car, bus or cruise ship. Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying, we are JetSettingFools, after all! We flew to Penang from Phuket, Thailand and departed on a flight to Bali, Indonesia .

If coming – or going – to  Kuala Lumpur , we recommend flying as the easiest route. We start our search for the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner.

Budget conscious travelers may opt to take the bus, but the time and hassle is not worth it, in our opinion. It’s also tempting to plan a stop in the Cameron Highlands between KL and Penang. Bear in mind that getting around Cameron Highlands without a car is incredibly difficult. Here is information about the bus from Penang to KL . 

Get The Best Of KL With Our 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary !

Getting Around Penang

There are many options when it comes to getting around Penang. In George Town, we walked everywhere – but hiring a trishaw is a unique way to get around the city…and there are plenty of peddlers who are willing to cart tourists around! Outside of the city center, options are: taxis, Grab, public bus, private guide and Hop On Hop Off Bus .

Where To Stay in Penang, Malaysia

We think the heart of George Town is the best place to stay in Penang. We stayed in a Chulia Street Penang hotel, Chulia Mansion . The reason we loved this hotel was for its central location, affordability, incredible included breakfast and rooftop views. 

However, there are many Penang Hotels to choose from in – or close to – the city center. Where you choose to stay will likely depend on your Penang trip budget. Start by checking out these top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews) for your upcoming trip. The Edison George Town , Campbell House or Tien Hotel Residence.  

Budget travelers looking for a fun place to stay might want to check out Wassup Youth Hostel – which gets fabulous reviews!

Looking for a posh beachfront hotel? Check rates and availability at the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort in Batu Ferringhi Beach.

 Read our Tips for Finding the Best Hotels for Cheap !

What To Pack for your Penang Trip

Whether visiting on a day trip or spend an entire week in Penang, you will want to make sure you are properly packed for your trip. Get your Free Packing Checklist to make sure you don’t forget a single thing!

Walking Shoes for Penang

We cover some ground in our Penang Itinerary! While Penang is a very walkable place, you will want to pack comfortable shoes ! I like to wear these shoes by Columbia – and Kris prefers wearing his Merrell trail shoes for both city and nature exploration. For short walks in the city and nighttime feasting, I wear my favorite flip flops . 

Best Travel Camera to Photograph Penang

Penang is an incredibly beautiful city filled with unique architecture and intriguing artworks. It is best to use a real camera (rather than a phone) to capture the sights. We travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens . The camera is easy to use and takes excellent, high-quality photos – plus it’s a great budget camera for travelers !

Penang Weather-Appropriate Gear & Day Bag

The weather in Penang is often sunny, hot and humid! Be prepared with sunscreen , a  travel hat or umbrella for shade.

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you will certainly want a great day pack to organize all of your essential travel items .

Travel Insurance for your Penang Vacation

If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Malaysia, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Malaysia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Penang Itinerary: What to do in Penang in 3 Days

last Updated: January 18, 2022 malaysia penang

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Have a few extra days in Malaysia and thinking about planning the ultimate 3 day Penang itinerary? Well, my friends, this Penang travel blog will surely help you plan your trip! Keep reading for not only what to do in Penang in 3 days, but for the best ways to get around, key phrases to learn in Malay, and where to stay!

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and legendary street foods featured in numerous magazines, Penang is one of the best destinations in Malaysia and even Southeast Asia. Planning a trip to Penang soon? Here’s the Penang itinerary you’ll need! 

However, to be completely honest, 3 days in Penang is juuuust enough time to explore the must-see attractions, but it’ll be tight. If you’re more into experiencing cultures or you’re a “I’m gonna try all the street foods” kinda guy, you’ll definitely need more than 3 days in Penang.

But don’t fret – if a long weekend is all you’ve got, Yen from Swing Abroad is here to show you how to make the most of it!

Hopefully you’ll find this article useful in planning your Penang itinerary, so let’s dive in and get right to it!

Psst: Looking for other 3-day itineraries of other Asian cities, check these out: 3 days in Tokyo , 3 days in Singapore , and 3 days in Hong Kong .

Language And Basic Phrases

Not to confuse anyone, but Malaysia is a multilingual country, with the official language being Malay. While the majority of Penangites are Chinese, almost all Malaysians understand Malay language. The good news? The majority of Malaysians speak English too, basic or advanced, which is so lucky for us English-speaking folks.

However, I always feel it’s respectful to at least learn a few phrases (enough for basic communication) in the home language of the country you’re visiting, so  here’s some simple Malay phrases to learn before your trip:

• Thank you – Terima Kasih
• How are you – Apa khabar?
• You’re welcome – Sama-sama
• How much – Berapa harga?
• Toilet – Tandas (but everyone knows the word ‘toilet’ here, so… Just stick to ‘toilet’ if it’s a real emergency)

Getting Around in Penang

To be honest, public transport is not the best option in Penang (it’s the opposite of time-efficient and let’s face it, they never arrive on time), but if you’re counting your ringgits (the currency of Malaysia), it’s the most economical way.

To get around in the city center, or UNESCO Heritage Site, GrabCar is the most popular choice. It works just like Uber, but the fare is fixed instead of metered.

However, for traveling longer distances, for example, from the city center to Batu Ferringhi, it’s better to wait for the public transport. But where will I catch my ride, you ask? The main bus station is in Komtar, which is nearby where you’ll probably end up booking accommodations.

Motorcycles are also popular among backpackers in Penang, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have experience riding a motorbike in hectic traffic. And since it’s not cheap renting a motorcycle either, I’d stick to either public transit or GrabCar if you’re in more of a rush.

What to Pack for Penang

Penang is the warmest city in Malaysia, so you probably won’t be needing your long pants. Here are some essentials to bring to Penang.

• Insect repellent
• Baseball Cap

Where to Stay in Penang

There are basically three ‘bases’ for travelers in Penang, depending on your favorite destinations and travel style. Pick one for your Penang itinerary! For this article, I’ll assume you’ll be basing yourself out of the Georgetown  UNESCO Heritage Site, as it’s where most visitors end up staying.

Georgetown UNESCO Heritage Site

The UNESCO Heritage Site is the main highlight of Penang Island. It’s located in the city center, and close to several attractions, which we’ll get into later. Other than that, you’ll be staying near Komtar, the main bus station. This makes traveling around the island much more convenient if you prefer taking public transportation.

Batu Ferringhi

Batu Ferringhi is a paradise for beach lovers in Penang. Located 30 minutes north of the city center, Batu Ferringhi beach is full of nightlife and beach-goers. With plenty of water activities going on during the evening, Batu Ferringhi is the most happening place in Penang.

You’ll find plenty of restaurants offering cuisines from all around the world along the main street. Also, if you’re planning a visit to Penang National Park, Batu Ferringhi is a great place to stay because it’s just a few minutes’ drive away. You could also try hitchhiking as well! I’ve picked up a German backpacker camping in Monkey Beach in the national park.

Balik Pulau

While all tourist attractions are concentrated in the eastern side of Penang island, let’s not forget about the western side, Balik Pulau. It’s the rural side of the island, where you’ll feel yourself being transported to the simpler Old Penang decades ago.

There are several home-stays around here, which are well worth a few nights if you want to escape the crowds and you’ve got more than 3 days in Penang. 

Best SIM Card in Penang

Major SIM Cards in Malaysia include DiGi, Maxis, UMobile, Celcom, etc. But the one that works the best in Penang is DiGi, which is preferred by most Penangites. Maxis work best in Kuala Lumpur but not as good in Penang. In short, just go for DiGi if you want to guarantee great service.

And now what you’ve been waiting for in this Penang travel blog → a full itinerary and what to do in Penang in 3 days! Start taking notes!

3 Days in Penang Itinerary

A quick note before we get started: As I’ve said for this Penang itinerary, I’ll assume that you’ll be staying in Georgetown UNESCO Heritage Site. Therefore, it only makes sense to refer to everything from this perspective. If you’re itching to stay in other places, this Penang itinerary is possible, you may just want to shuffle things around a bit due to transportation options. Now, let’s dive in!

Day 1 in Penang:

Start off with a typical Malaysian Breakfast

First up on this Penang trip: trying out the typical classic breakfast of Malaysia →  a set of half-boiled eggs, toasted bread, and a cup of local coffee. The best place to try this out would be at Toh Soon Café in Campbell Street.

However, due to recent popularity, the prices of menu items have skyrocketed. And chances are, you’ll be spending some time waiting on line, but fear not, it’s worth it! And busy for good reason!

If busy breakfasts aren’t your thing or you don’t wanna wait around, go to Tho Yuen Restaurant on the same street. It’s a dim sum restaurant that has been around for more than 80 years, and obviously very good (I mean, they’ve been around for the better part of a century…)

Exploring The UNESCO Heritage Site

Before exploring the heritage site, give this article a read to learn more about the history of Penang.

While you’re there, go hunt for the street art which can be found scattered all over the area. If you haven’t figured this out by now, Penang is famous for its street art, with the most classic one being the Kids on Bicycle painting by Ernest Zacharevic.

Not sure where to start? Grab a map, which can be found everywhere within the area, or just refer to  this handy-dandy electronic map .

There’s plenty of restaurants within the area, so it’s wise to plan to have your lunch here. Plus, after all that exploring, you’ll probably be a bit hungry. How to find the best one? Follow the locals’ crowds. Always follow the locals.

Visit The Clan Jetties

Along the coast, there are several jetties, each belonged to different clans, differentiated by surnames. They’re one of the oldest Chinese settlements on Penang island! The tourism in Penang has given birth to the commercialization of the jetties, so therefore you’ll find plenty of gifts and souvenirs shops along the jetty.

Try the durian ice-cream there too, you might  just end up loving it. And psst – if you’re a photographer, the jetties are also famous for sunrise photography, so wake your butt up early and come on down!

Since it’s the first day of your 3 day Penang itinerary, let’s not make it too packed (don’t wanna tire you out right away!) For now, head over to Kimberley Street for an abundance of street foods. In the evening, you’ll find hawkers setting their stalls up here, transforming the street into a night market.

Order as much as you can, because most of the street foods you find here are way up to par. Want some recommendations? Go for Char Koay Teow, Indian Mee Goreng, and oyster omelets. And yes, you can thank me later. 🙂

Day 2 in Penang:

My favorite breakfast in Penang is Hokkien Mee. While you can find them everywhere around the city, it becomes challenging to find the very best one. But don’t worry, I got you covered. Head over to Star Hotel Coffee Shop on Carnarvon Street for a bowl of flavorful Hokkien Prawn Noodles. Be sure to arrive before 10 am because it’ll most likely get sold out by then.

If you prefer a lighter breakfast , then Pitt Street Koay Teow Th’ng on Carnarvon Street is also a great option.

And on day 2 of this Penang itinerary, we’ve got two great options for you:

Adventure in ESCAPE Theme Park

ESCAPE Theme Park is the most recommended destination on this Penang itinerary for those who’re looking for an adrenaline rush and swoon over adventurous outdoor activities. The theme park is equipped with tons of facilities, high ropes courses, zip lines, slides, climbing towers, and more.

It’s located far away from the city center so you might want to take the public transport from Komtar bus station to get there. The journey will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the traffic.

The water park was opened just a couple of years ago, and the ticket is now inclusive of both the water park and theme park. You’ll need an entire day to explore everything there!

Hiking in Penang National Park

If you’re not a fan of theme parks or you just so happen to like national parks more, head over to Penang National Park on the same bus. The national park is located at the end of the bus route, taking almost an hour to get there from Komtar.

The great news is that there’s no entrance fee charged to the National Park! Yes, it’s free! While you’re there, be sure to check out Pantai Kerachut and also Teluk Kampi to enjoy the nature side of Penang island.

Pay a visit to Muka Head Lighthouse too. The whole trek will probably take you 2 hours or so. With all the photographs and chilling, you can easily spend a half-day here. If you’re planning to do camping inside the national park, be sure to register at the entrance counter.

Watch the Sunset in Batu Ferringhi

If you’re opting for hiking in Penang National Park, chances are you’ll finish everything before evening. To get to Batu Ferringhi, I recommend waiting for the bus.

Batu Ferringhi is the most happening beach in Penang, with lots of water activities going on, like paragliding, banana boats, and jet skis. If all you want to do is enjoy the sunset without the crowds, go for the beach behind Starbucks Café.

For dinner, head over to the main street in Batu Ferringhi and you’ll find restaurants all over the street, serving cuisines from all over the world. If you’re not pocket-sensitive, try the western cuisine in The Ship Restaurant.

Tight on budget? I’ve tried most of the restaurants there and most of them were satisfying. Feel comfortable to choose whichever you like! Be sure not to stay until late night there, you might miss the bus back to your hostel! If that happens, you’ll need GrabCar to get back.

Day 3 in Penang:

Pay a visit to Chowrasta Morning Market in Chowrasta Road. There’ll be food stalls everywhere, serving local Penang street foods. You can find any street food here, literally.

If you haven’t tried Hokkien Prawn Mee, you could try it here. Yea, I love Hokkien Prawn Mee, quite a lot. Go shopping around the morning market, and take in the local vibes and the way of life here. It’s a great place to start your last day in Penang.

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

A highly recommended destination for foreigners planning their Penang itinerary is the Peranakan Mansion. The mansion was built way back in the 1890s, a unique mansion portraying the cultures and influences of Nyonya and Baba.

With over 1,000 antiques and collectibles on display, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of what it’s like to be a millionaire a century ago. Tours are also available at a fixed time every day, be sure to arrive on time if you want to catch one. Note that entrance fee for adults is MYR10.

Visit to Kek Lok Si Temple

At Komtar, take the bus to Kek Lok Si temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the city, and most definitely an interesting place in Penang. The temple is very popular among tourists so expect huge crowds of tourists here.

If you’re visiting around January or February, consider visiting at night. 15 days before Lunar Chinese New Year, there are LED light shows all over the roofs of the buildings. Kek Lok Si temple has a lot of ways to dig your cash out from your pocket.

But you don’t have to necessarily pay for most of the things here. Skip the train ride and hike up from the gravel road instead. Saves you some money.

Enjoy the City Views atop Penang Hill

Penang Hill is located near to Kek Lok Si Temple, which is why I recommend doing them together in one go. To get to Penang Hill, you’ll need to buy a train ticket at the train station at the base of the hill. A return ticket for a foreign adult is MYR30.

Penang authorities have been paying lots of attention and funding  the development of Penang Hill. You’ll find lots of attractions up there, with gardens very well-maintained. It’s the best place to escape the extreme Penang heat.

Try the ice-kacang in the café. Or Mango Ice, or anything with ice… You’ll love it! Take a walk along the gravel road around Penang Hill and enjoy the scenery. If you’re staying until dark, then you’ll be enjoying the best viewpoint on Penang City night view. The last train runs on 11 pm, don’t be late or you’ll screw up!

If you’re staying in Penang Hill until the sun sets, have your dinner in David Brown’s Restaurant. If not, there are abundant of local cafes near the train station below.

Again, don’t stay until too late there or you’ll miss your bus!

So what do you think of this Penang itinerary? Hopefully this Penang travel blog helped you figure out what to do in Penang in 3 days!

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Penang Itinerary: How To Get The Most Out Of Your Short Trip

A trip itinerary for Penang can be a tiresome thing to plan because there’s so much to see and do! And this is even if you just limit your itinerary to George Town!

We have been to Penang several times and still haven’t seen everything.

These itineraries are suitable for first timers (based on our opinion) but if you have been to Penang before, check out the itinerary for longer durations!

Table Of Contents:

Penang Itinerary

• For The Family

Best Time To Visit Penang

Where to stay in penang.

The classic Penang itinerary usually includes the following highlights (listed here in no particular order):

• Penang food
• Penang Hill (and The Habitat)
• Kek Lok Si Temple
• Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (or The Blue Mansion)
• ESCAPE Theme Park
• Khoo Kongsi
• Penang Street Art
• Clan Jetties of Penang
• Batu Ferringhi

Keeping this in mind, you can experience the food, heritage, culture, and nature. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities in Penang.

How Long To Stay In Penang

Honestly, you can’t see much in 1 day. Or 2 days, for that matter!

3 days is the best duration to see the top attractions in Penang! So, try to consider this into your two weeks Malaysia itinerary !

Still have doubts? Read on!

Penang Itinerary – Day 1

Sometimes, you just have less than 24 hours before you must go elsewhere. And that’s okay, just keep in mind you’ll probably want to come back to Penang again!

Hopefully, you’re visiting on a weekday and not a weekend. Else you must be wary of heavier traffic and longer waiting times at popular hawker stalls.

For your first day, aim to spend the whole day in George Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site ! As we said before, there are already so many things to do in Georgetown Penang .

• Make your way to the historic centre of Penang, George Town!
• Depending on how much time you’ve got, you can find Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi .
• Stroll (or hop on a trishaw ) along Penang’s heritage streets, Armenian Street and Love Lane where you can spot some street murals too!
• Continue to Little India

• Have lunch in Little India ( Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant )
• If you have time to spare, step into the  Sri Mahamariamman Temple
• Next, admire the lovely Penang Peranakan Mansion (Read our detailed guide on Penang Peranakan Mansion ). Or have some giggles while learning about Malaysian cuisine at the  Wonder Food Museum  instead!

• Chew Jetty or Tan Jetty – There are many clan jetties of Penang but these two are the most picturesque!
• Dinner option 1:  Village Fish Head Bee Hoon  at Pengkalan Weld!
• Dinner option 2: Enjoy street food at Kimberly Street

Note: Don’t stay out too late! You’ll need an early start for the next day in Penang!

Penang Itinerary – Day 2

Day 1 follows the previous itinerary. But on Day 2, it’s time to visit the main attractions in  Ayer Itam , Penang – Penang Hill  and  Kek Lok Si Temple !

These are very famous attractions so try as much as possible to visit on a weekday instead. Otherwise, queues are likely.

First night in Penang: Stay anywhere between George Town and Ayer Itam . Especially if you want to see the sunrise at Penang Hill !

• Go to Ayer Itam – If going by public transport, allow at least 2 hours . If you have a car, it takes 30 minutes from George Town !
• Start early if you want to hike up to Penang Hill from Penang Botanical Gardens or you can take the train up (preferably before 8am ).

• The main attraction at Penang Hill is The Habitat with guided nature walks, a long canopy walkway, and a spectacular 360 degrees viewing platform (Open daily from 9am – 7pm, with last entry being at 6pm),  Curtis Crest !
• To beat the crowds, try to complete your visit before noon ! Then, it’s on to Kek Lok Si Temple !

• You can head over to the nearby Air Itam Sister Curry Mee for lunch before your temple visit! Or the Penang Air Itam Laksa (Only open on weekends)
• Explore Kek Lok Si Temple (Approximately 1-2 hours required)

After sweating a lot, go for some refreshing cendol at Lebuh Keng Kwee, George Town.

And if you have extra time on your hands, you can visit more museums like the Upside Down Museum, Glass Museum, or hunt for some murals.

• Freshen up at your hotel.
• Dinner option #1: 888 Hokkien Mee at Lebuh Pesgrave
• Dinner option #2: Time to try some more of that delicious Penang food at Kimberley Street Night Market ( kway chap, char kway teow )

• Hit the scenic Straits Quay Marina Mall – always good for a harbor stroll, coffee, or a nightcap!

Read more: 11 Best Night Markets In Penang – Monday To Sunday (Especially #5)

Penang Itinerary – Day 3

Add this plan to the previous 2-day itinerary if you’re staying in Penang for 3 days.

Day 3 allows you more time to appreciate George Town and its British colonial past . And to see at least one of Penang’s prominent beaches !

Start the day with a tour of notable structures around Penang! And as evening approaches, make the journey to  Batu Ferringhi .

Second night in Penang: Stay anywhere in  George Town

After breakfast in Penang , venture around George Town to see Penang’s British colonial buildings and other famous landmarks :

• Goddess of Mercy Temple Penang
• George’s Anglican Church
• Penang State Museum
• Penang High Court
• Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower
• Fort Cornwallis

Note: You can do this 20-minute walking route in reverse to avoid visiting Fort Cornwallis at mid-day when it’s usually very hot and sunny!

• Have lunch in George Town . (e.g. Esplanade Park Food Court for Hameed Pata Mee Sotong !)
• Visit the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple
• Travel to and have a tour of Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque
• 10 minutes’ drive away is Batu Ferringhi beach where there are kayak, jet ski or banana boat rentals ( Waverunner Beach Chalet ).
• Before Batu Ferringhi Beach, you can visit the lesser known and quieter  Moonlight Bay. It isa 6 minutes’ drive away from Batu Ferringhi Beach.

Note: Facilities and maintenance at Moonlight Bay are lacking though.

• Dinner option #1: Romantic garden setting at Restaurant Ferringhi Garden
• Dinner option #2: Long Beach Café Food Court  ( Char kway teow , satay, fresh seafood, etc)
• Browse the Batu Feringghi Night Market (Open from 7pm )
• Or choose a beautiful bar in Batu Feringghi for sunset viewing (BoraBora bar)
• Retire early to be fully rested for the next day!

Penang Itinerary – Day 4

After 3 days of checking out George Town , Ayer Itam and Batu Ferringhi , it’s time to head to the west coast of Penang! Or more specifically, Teluk Bahang.

Note: Teluk Bahang is 8 minutes’ drive from Batu Ferringhi. Or 30 minutes by public transport.

Third night in Penang: Stay in Batu Ferringhi

4 days in Penang gives you an extra day to fully immerse yourself in more nature-related places of interest in Penang! Like Penang National Park !

• There are boat operators who are obviously exploiting tourists who don’t want to hike through Penang National Park to see the beaches.
• Furthermore, despite the entrance fees imposed, some parts of the park (namely Monkey Beach and hiking trails) need repair.

• Have breakfast or take your breakfast with you to Penang National Park ( Open from 8am ). Decide ahead whether you’d like to hike through the park or take a boat transfer .
• At the entrance of the Penang National Park, register before you start your hike ( 1 to 1.5 hours with moderate fitness) or get on the boats!
• At Monkey Beach ; Climb up to Muka Head Lighthouse to get the blood flowing! Go for a dip in the shallows. Or sit down to a picnic.

• Take a boat ride to Pantai Keracut (Turtle Beach) to stop at the turtle sanctuary and glimpse the meromictic lake ! Penang National Park closes at 5pm.
• If you get back around 3pm, you still have time to take a peek at Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm (Closes at 5pm)

Note: Another attraction that you can check out in this area is the Tropical Fruit Farm (also closes at 5pm).

• Of course, you can always stop here and call it a day!
• Or, you can see where the locals enjoy their evening walks at Teluk Bahang Dam (Closed at 7:30pm )!
• Dinner option: Tai Tong Seafood Restaurant (Typical Chinese seafood restaurant but price is higher than average)

Penang Itinerary – Day 5

If you still have energy for an additional day to the earlier 4 days 3 nights itinerary, this last day will ensure some unforgettable experiences in your memories of Penang!

Fourth night in Penang: Stay in Teluk Bahang

Spend most of the day at Escape theme park trying out the high-rope obstacle course, slides, zip lines and more!

Keep the last 3 hours for getting to the airport and as a buffer for any unforeseen circumstances.

• It’s a 1-hour drive from Teluk Bahang to the Penang International Airport. Or 3 hours by public transport!
• There is a tropical fruit farm worth stopping on the way to the airport, especially in durian season! Allocate 30-90 minutes to visit!

Suggestions For Family-Friendly Itinerary

Visiting Penang with kids in tow need not be complicated! The following places will enable your kids to unleash their pent-up energy too.

Theme Parks

• Adventure Zone (Batu Ferringhi)
• Adventure Play at Escape Theme Park (Teluk Bahang)

And here are some family-friendly venues that have educative value:

Education Venues

• Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm (Teluk Bahang)
• Tech Dome at KOMTAR Penang

And the following places are great for the whole family to sightsee. Although those with knee problems will have difficulty exploring the whole area.

Landmarks/ Penang Attractions

• Penang Hill and Funicular Railway
• Kek Lok Si Temple (Ayer Itam)

Other Interesting Places

• Hard Rock Hotel – The variety of pools and slides here almost feels like a water park!
• Penang Museums (Teddyville Museum or Wonder Food Museum)

Read more: Penang Nightlife – 23 Best Things To Do In Penang At Night

The best time to visit Penang is towards the end of the year. Think mid-November to mid-February ! This is when daily temperatures are more favorable and there is festive cheer in the air!

At the same time, do expect more crowds and higher prices for accommodation.

The rest of the year in Penang is  warm and humid  with  minimal variation  except for the amount of rain.  Rainy season  is typically between  May to April  and  September to mid-November !

It’s hard to decide where to stay when there are so many options!

We’ll make it a little easier for you with this appealing selection of the best hotels in Penang !

1. Budget Option

1.1. zen rooms eden parade.

An affordable hotel in Batu Ferringhi with  clean rooms  and a  strategic location  close to eateries, a  convenience store,  and a  night market !

Check best price on: Agoda

1.2. Chulia Mansion

In the midst of George Town attractions, the elegant rooms and fine details at Chulia Mansion are an alternative if The Blue Mansion ( Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion ) is out of your budget!

1.3. Eco Capsule Resort, Teluk Bahang, Penang

Although unsuitable for families with young children or elders, Eco Capsule Resort is simple rustic living without having to do away with air-conditioning!

It’s close to the main Teluk Bahang attractions too!

If you’d like other budget options, check out our list of the top budget hotels in Penang for our choice recommendations!

2. Mid-Range Option

2.1. areca hotel penang.

Location-wise, you will be getting your money’s worth with this hotel as it is in George Town close to shopping centers ( KOMTAR ), eateries as well as China Town !

Rooms are  beautiful, cozy, and clean .

2.2. Lost Paradise Resort

Big rooms , Bali vibes and a delightful outdoor infinity pool with sea views ! The only downside is there’s no private beach!

10 minutes’ drive from Batu Ferringhi !

2.3. JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La

Next to KOMTAR , this high-rise hotel delivers when it comes to service!

Recent renovations , food haunts, modern rooms , a swimming pool and a fitness centre are all reasons to book Hotel Jen Penang!

3. Luxury Option

3.1. cheong fatt tze mansion.

A  heritage mansion  turned into a  boutique hotel  in  George Town ?

At The Blue Mansion, you’ll be treated to Peranakan luxury , delicious breakfast and complimentary evening tours !

3.2. Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Penang

It’s a short drive ( 3 minutes ) from Rasa Sayang to Batu Ferringhi.

Even so, get ready to be spoilt with wonderful service and surroundings at this 5-star hotel with its own private beach !

3.3. G Hotel Gurney

G Hotel Gurney is a clear first choice for keen shoppers ( Gurney Plaza ) and it is walking distance to Gurney Drive Hawker Centre !

You will likely return for the classy environment and great service !

Further reading:

• How To Get From Penang Airport To Georgetown (4 Easy Ways)
• How To Get To Penang Island From Kuala Lumpur (KL)
• Best Way To Travel From Langkawi To Penang (All Methods + Cheap Option)

This complete Penang itinerary guide starts with a basic 1-day plan. You can extend it to a 5-day, 4 nights plan easily to cover George Town, Ayer Itam, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang!

There is enough to keep you busy from morning to night if you’re wondering  what to do in Penang  in 3 days!

You might want to look at our full Penang guide too.

Read more: 13 Best Penang Souvenirs – What To Buy In Penang

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What to do in Penang in 3 days

• Introduction to Penang
• 3 days in Penang — My Penang itinerary to fun and food-filled trip to Penang.

Day 1 — Art, Street food, and historical places to see in Penang

Day 2 — Penang hill, Clan jetties, and a seafood dinner at hawker center with live music.

Day 3 — Penang National Park for nature or Hin Bus Depot for street art and Batu Ferringhi beach to end the day with a golden sunset and good food.

• Have only two days in Penang?

Important information – Planning your trip to Penang

Where is penang island, where to stay in penang city.

• How to reach Penang, Malaysia?

What is the best time to visit Penang Island?

Where to exchange currency in penang, what would be your penang trip budget.

• Resources to help you visit some of the Penang famous places.

Supplementary reads to this Penang Travel Blog

Introduction to penang .

After a short walk under the bright sun from the bus stand to my guesthouse in Georgetown at Lebuh Carnarvon, I put my bags in my room and went out for a stroll. For those who don’t know, Georgetown is the capital of Penang state or the Penang island.

I was famished after a long bus drive from Taman Negara, and Carnarvon street seemed like the right place to be. Little did I know that soon I was to be lost in the labyrinth of the streets of Penang flaunting exquisite art and some delicious Penang food .

The streets seemed empty, and I wondered if there were any tourists. A friend had questioned my Malaysia trip by saying that the only thing to see in Malaysia was Penang.

I found many more reasons to travel to Malaysia during my month-long trip to the gorgeous country, and, soon, I discovered a crowd of tourists huddled around visceral murals that were stuck to Penang street walls. Some pointed their Nikons towards the art murals, some jumped into the mural scene making it seem even more alive, and some, like me, stood on the side and wondered how Penang became Asia’s most thriving art and food capital.

Penang was acquired from the sultanate of Kedah and established as a British East India company colony by Francis Light in 1786. Georgetown was set up as the modern center of the island. Penang soon became the trading hub of Asia and attracted wealthy traders from India and China along with laborers from both the countries.

While you will see the grand Chinese-Peranakan Blue Mansion, the Peranakan Museum, and the Khoo Kongsi temple aging in the streets of Penang, you will also stumble into old South-Indian temples and grand mosques towering above the Penang city.

The cultural hot pot of Penang merged with Malaysia just before Malaysia’s independence in 1957. Almost after 50 years of post-colonial development, Georgetown was declared as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 2008.

This declaration flipped the future of Georgetown as the government of Penang further marked Georgetown and eventually all of Penang with historical and cultural street signs and real-life inspired murals.

These vibrant murals and the delicious potpourri of Indian, Chinese, and Malay food in Penang drew travelers from all around the world.

I also joined the parade of the tourists walking from one street to another and discovered the most thought-provoking and hilarious pieces of art in narrow Penang streets. And when I got tired of getting lost in the Penang street art, I gulped down bowls of Asam Laksa (a tangy fish soup) and found excuses to rush to the nearest Nasi Kandar joint to indulge in spicy fish curry and rice adorned with some crispy okra.

Though I spent 6 days in Penang, I was writing for a freelance client for about three of those days. But when I wasn’t writing , I let the streets of Georgetown and Penang overwhelm me. While walking, overeating, looking up to ancient temples and skyscrapers, hiking hills, watching sunsets on a beach, and getting shocked by the Chinese new year celebrations, I found a Penang that tempted me to visit her again.

And why wouldn’t I go? Batik painting shops and abandoned graffiti centers, ghost museums and surreal portraits on streets, live music bars and Chinese tea shops, high-end restaurants and rushed hawker stalls, organic spas and nature hikes, Hindu temples and protestant churches — Penang seems to be the sum up of an ideal travel brochure.

But for the moment I was happy to indulge in the ever-evolving art and food courtyard that Penang island is. So though I prefer slow travel, I tried to make peace with a 3 day visit to Penang.

In this Penang travel guide, I have put together the best things to do on your 3 day Penang itinerary. Let’s go.

3 days in Penang — My Penang itinerary to fun and a food-filled trip to Penang.

Day 1 of your penang trip.

Start your first day in Penang with eating and discovering the street art. The best place to overeat and stumble into art in Penang is Georgetown.

Though my detailed Penang food guide and Penang street art guide will take you through the street food and the art pieces in detail, I would suggest start walking towards Lebuh Chulia or Lebuh Armenian for these two have the most of the street art and murals in Georgetown.

Lebuh Keng Kwee has some of the must-try street food. Try the asam laksa and the world-famous chendol which is a sweet-coconuty soup made with green-glass noddles and ice shavings at the world-famous shops on Keng Kwee Street.

Insider Tip: If you love Asian food and are on a Southeast Asia trip, I suggest you visit the Inle Lake in Burma that has some amazing Shan food full of lemon, fish, and soupy noodles. 

Don’t forget to get into some side streets for hidden murals and delicious food.

With some food in your belly you can now see some Hindu and Chinese temples, mosques, and other historical places in Penang.

Some of the major historical and cultural places to go in Penang —

• Cheong Fatt Tze or the Blue Mansion — Named after a rich Chinese merchant who built the mansion as a home and office in the 19th century. 38-room minions with brilliant architectural design. Head off on a sunny afternoon to spend some time in the shade watching engraved furniture and old Chinese living style. You can check out their rooms and other services and timings here . 
• Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling — Build in 1801 by Penang’s first Indian Muslim settlers, the mosque stands tall and bright white.
• Kuan Yin Teng or the Temple of the Goddess of Mercy — Originally a temple devoted to the gods of the sea, now this ancient temple is dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.
• Sri Mahamariamman Temple — One of the rainbow-colored and figurine-engraved South-Indian temple in Little India. The temple was made by the Tamilians when they migrated to Penang in the 1800s to trade or work as laborers.
• Khoo Kongsi Temple  – Build in 1906, Khoo Kongsi is another clan temple in the center of Georgetown in Cannon Square. I recommend just walking past by this temple as I wasn’t very inspired by this one. But you can check out the events held at the temple here . 

Choose amongst these places as per your time and preference. I was more interested in staying outdoors and searching the street art or indulging with food and saw most of these above historical and religious attractions from outside.

You can also get an audio 4-hour Penang city tour that takes you through the popular Penang temples, Jetties, and mosques — GetYourGuide tour of Penang .

End your day with some spicy street food at Chulia night market or the Nasi Kandar Line Clear restaurant for some Nasi Kandar. Have drinks at Love Lane if you like. I just grabbed some beer at a local hawker center and watched the avalanche of tourists pour-over food stalls.

Just behind the Goddess of Mercy temple, Antarabangsa Enterprise is a good spot for some affordable drinks.

Another possible pit-stop — Chowrasta street market where Indian immigrants came during the British era and named the area Chowrasta — adapted from the word Chowk(junction) and rasta(way). But Chinese took over the Indians in 1860 and since then mostly Chinese house shops and street vendors run the place. Head here to see some live shopping and Penang food action.

Insider Penang Travel Tips #1 — Don’t miss the glassy Rainbow Skywalk in Georgetown. It changes colors soon before you notice.

Day 2 of your trip to Penang — Get out of Georgetown to get a panoramic view of Penang, hit the clan jetties, and watch a spectacular sunset with some great seafood and music.

Hike up or take the steepest train to penang hill, penang.

I highly recommend Penang hill for when I hiked up the hill, I could see Penang from a height and make some sense out of the modern-vintage fusion of Penang island. Grey-glassy skyscrapers towered over the city while from that height the real hustle-bustle of the Penang streets was missing.

Amongst the many routes that you can take to climb the Penang hill, I took the one that starts from the Penang hill gate near the train station. You can also get to the top of the hill from various paths that fork out from the Botanical gardens.

For doing the Penang hill hike or taking the train to the top of the hill, take a Grab or a bus to Air Itam or directly to Penang hill which is the last stop of bus number 203 or 204 running from the Komtar Bus Terminal.

Head towards the Penang hill gate, find a gravel road to the left of the train station and walk on. The guard might dissuade you from doing the hike claiming that the walk is steep, but the climb was safe and fun.

Depending on your speed, you would take about 2-3-4 hours to reach the top whilst going through a gravel road, staircases, and a jungle trail. The number of squirrels you spot on the trail would also determine how much time you take to complete the trek. If at any point you want to give up the hike, you can get to the nearest stop of the train that goes up the hill and take the train from there.

While coming down the Penang hill, I took the train as it had already rained much and the walks weren’t dry and fun to walk anymore.

Check out the official Penang hill website to see if any festival is going up at the hill.

Insider Tip:  Another gorgeous train ride to take is the  Circular train in Yangon, Myanmar

After getting down the hill (or even before climbing up) you can eat either the curry mee at Sister Curry Mee or the asam laksa at the Air Itam Asam Laksa (in the Air Itam market) as I described in my food guide to Penang also.

I skipped the Laksa but I ate a fabulous Ice Kachang at the top of Penang Hill in the Cliff cafe. The Peranakan couple with whom I did the trek told me that was the best place to have Ice Kachang.

You can also visit the Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple that was built in1891 and is close to Penang hill. As I trekked to the top of Penang Hill, I didn’t have enough time to visit the temple.

After watching the golden sunset from the Penang Hill, I took the return bus to Georgetown and walked towards the clan jetties.

The clan jetties are Chinese villages on the eastern coast of George Town. In the 1800s when the Chinese migrated to Penang to get their chunk of sea trade and work as laborers, many Chinese clans settled at the shore in stilt houses to avoid paying land taxes and to stay close to the coast to work.

Visiting the clan jetties was one of the many fun things to do in Penang. For not only you can see old Chinese stilt houses standing in the ocean, but you can also explore the by lanes of the jetties to find some great seafood being freshly sizzled out of lucky woks. The decoration of the balconies of the houses was particularly Chinese and gave great insight into the Chinese living style. Small almost-antique dusted-rusted cars lined the streets near the Jetties.

As a bonus, you will see some sea folklore murals painted on the walls near the jetties.

And to end the day, just hang out at the jetty food court for some live music, great seafood, and lovely banter with the locals.

From the Clan Jetties, you can go to Fort Cornwallis, which is what I did on another day, but I don’t feel like recommending it for there was nothing spectacular about the fort.

Day 3 in Penang — Fill the last day of your 3 day Penang trip itinerary with some nature, beach, and food or more street art, beach, and food.

You can choose to either go for more food or you can head for some nature.

For nature, either visit the Botanical gardens or go to the Penang national park . In the National Park, choose between many short and long trails depending on your time and mood.

From the Komtar bus terminal, take bus number 101 or 103 to get to the Park. A hike in the national park would only leave enough time for dinner which you can either have at Gurney Drive or Batu Ferringhi beach.

If you are not in the mood of a national park, spend your day discovering the street art outside of Georgetown in and around the Hin Bus depot area. If the day is a Sunday, find the Sunday market there and eat away. You can also head back to the clan jetties to see them during the day and get lost around to find more murals and street art there.

Now about Gurney Drive and Batu Ferringhi beach.

Gurney Drive is the North Eastern shore of the island. Though Gurney Drive is a cluster of imposing shopping malls, five-star hotels, and expensive homes, remember you are in Penang.

In the middle of all the luxurious hotch-potch, you will find the Gurney Drive hawker center that is said to have the best Rojak, amongst other things.

But I would prefer Batu Ferringhi beach to Gurney Drive any day.

Sea shacks on the beach, colorful parasails floating overhead, an option to eat from an assortment of seafood at the Batu Ferringhi night market — what more can you ask for?

Sit by the beach, watch the golden sunset while sipping a beer, and order that sweet and sour grilled fish you thought about all day long.

Have only two days in Penang? What can you do on a 2-day Penang Tour?

If you only have two days and thinking about what to do in Penang in two days, here are my best places in Penang to cut short this three-day itinerary to two days. 

• Follow the Day One itinerary for your first day in Penang. 
• Penang hill should be on your Penang to do list for you will get amazing bird’s eye view of Penang city from the top of the hill. 
• From Penang hill get to the Clan jetties or go to the Batu Ferringhi beach for sunset and seafood dinner.

If you are on a really short Penang one day trip, then just follow the Day 1 itinerary from above and you will get the essence of Penang. But one day isn’t enough to explore Penang, so if you can, do take out at least one more day for this gorgeous island.

Insider Penang travel tips #2 – Penang’s best Ice Kachang at the top of Penang hill in Cliff Cafe is another reason to visit Penang Hill.

Penang island is off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Penang comprises two parts — Penang Island and Seberang Perai, a small part on the mainland Peninsula.

On my Penang trip, I stayed in Georgetown and loved the area.

Georgetown is a cultural mix of Chinese, Malaysians, and Indians. If you are visiting Penang at a Chinese/Malay/Indian festival, you would definitely get to see a procession passing from Georgetown or Deepawali celebrations.

Georgetown is dense with street art, and you can always find some great hotels close to the colorful wall murals. From Georgetown, I could explore most of Penang by walking or the free shuttle buses that run frequently from there.

As per me, the best place to stay in Penang is Georgetown for it has all kinds of food, lively street art, culture, hip cafes and bars, and add anything else if you like.

When I went to Penang, I didn’t know about the many vintage and heritage hotels of Penang that has been constructed out of restored buildings that once housed a lineage of Chinese or Indian and Malay families. A lot of such heritage buildings now serve as hotels. I have picked the best of some of these cultural properties and have listed them here as per their price range.

Affordable stay options in Georgetown:

Just Inn, Georgetown – I stayed at Just Inn in Georgetown which is at the junction of Lorong Carnarvon and Lebuh(street) Carnarvon, a very happening street of Georgetown. When I visited Penang, the Chinese new year celebrations were going on and the entire procession walked past by us on Carnarvon street. What a sight! 

Just Inn has affordable dorms and private rooms. It is 5 minutes walking to Khoo Kong Si Temple and KOMTAR. I remember walking from Just Inn to all important locations of Penang either by foot or with the free buses that run throughout Penang. While some of the rooms were fan-cooled and some air-conditioned, I chose a fan room to save money. The ventilation of the room was so good that I never felt hot even during the month of November when temperatures were soaring in Malaysia.

The staff was very friendly and helpful. Just Inn also has a cafe that serves breakfast and is a great place to hang out.

I wouldn’t think twice before booking Just Inn again.

See the prices and book Just Inn here on Booking for your Penang trip.

Other affordable options in Georgetown that I would definitely consider for Penang.

My Guesthouse 109 – My Guesthouse 109 is an earthy-toned family-run hotel in Georgetown. The property offers air-conditioned double and queen rooms with shared and private bathrooms.

Known for its helpful owners, lovely cats, and an in-house washing machine to use, My Guesthouse gets booked weeks in advance. Oh, you can also help yourselves with free coffee and tea in the kitchen.

Find out the prices and book My Guesthouse on Booking .

Le Dream Boutique Hotel, Georgetown (Heritage Property)- La Dream is a modern Boutique hotel that comes with a rooftop spa and bar and free shuttle service around town. The property has double, quadruple, and king rooms furnished with all the amenities you might need.

The hotel provides a breakfast buffet, afternoon tea and snacks, and even free happy hours with complimentary wine.

You can have a look at the availability and prices of La Dream here .

WeLuv Travel Guesthouse, Georgetown – WeLuv is a very affordable property in Georgetown near the famous Laksa and Cendol stalls. The hostel offers double and family rooms with shared and private bathrooms.

WeLuv is recognized for its friendly staff who help out travelers in navigating Penang the local way.

Browse through the availability and prices of WeLuv Travel here .

Mid-range properties in Georgetown:

Ren I Tang Heritage Inn (Heritage Property) – Ren I Tang is another stunning vintage property that has been constructed out of a restored building. Equipped with timber flooring, wooden staircases, and Chinese roof tiles, the property offers courtyard, china, tub rooms, and lofts.

Ren I Tang is popular for its beautiful architecture, good breakfast, and the in-house museum. The hotel is at the borderline of affordable and mid-range.

Look at the availability and book Ren I Tang Heritage Inn here .

Jawi Peranakan Mansion, Georgetown (Heritage Property) – Well, the pictures of this restored Anglo-Indian mansion are enough to convince anyone to stay here. Jawi Peranakan offers double rooms, villas, and suites in the heart of Georgetown.

The property has an outdoor pool and is known for its friendly 24-hour desk. The hotel also provides a buffet breakfast.

Look at the pictures and availability of Jawi Peranakan here .

Note: I am putting this property under mid-range for the suites and villas are huge and can accommodate as many as 4-5 people.

Luxury stay options in Georgetown

Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Georgetown  (Heritage Property) – If you are looking for a colonial-style luxurious place, then Eastern & Oriental is the place. Known for its seaside pool and a bar, this hotel has fancy suites and in house restaurant with local and international food.

If you want to be at a cultural yet comfortable place close to the sea, then Eastern & Oriental seems like a really good choice.

See the prices and book Eastern & Oriental Hotel  here  on Booking.com.

Areca Hotel, Georgetown, Penang – Areca Hotel Penang is a restored heritage building that now serves as a luxurious hotel that comes along with a decorated lobby and a green courtyard. The decorations and furniture seem like from an old era and have antique looks.

Areca Hotel offers heritage rooms and family suites.

Check out the prices and availability of Areca on Booking .

Noordin Mews, Georgetown Penang (Heritage Property) – Noordin Mews is a boutique hotel that is also made out of a restored heritage building. Noordin Mews offers double rooms and suites with or without breakfast.

Known for the friendly staff and its quiet location, Noordin definitely seems like a place to relax and read in between Penang sightseeing.

See the prices and book Noording Mews here .

Stay options in Batu Ferringhi

Batu Ferringhi or Feringgi is a seaside locality of Penang. Needless to say, the Batu Feringgi beach is popular amongst locals and tourists to relax with ocean views.

If you are looking for some vibrant beach life after a few days of visiting temples and museums, get a seaside place in Batu Feringgi to watch the sun setting over an azure horizon along with some Ikan Bakar (grilled fish) and a Malaysian beer.

Some of the Batu Ferringi stay options

Rasa Motel  – Rasa Motel is an affordable property and is just about 3 mins walk from the Batu Feringghi beach. The hotel offers air-conditioned single, double, triple, and family rooms.

The property is known for its cleanliness, location, friendly owner, and budget prices.

Check for the availability and book Rasa Motel  here on Booking .

Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Penang  – Shangri-La is Batu Feringgi’s luxurious resort at the beach that is set amidst a lush tropical forest. Equipped with swimming pools, a gym, and yoga Pavillion, the hotel offers all kinds of rooms with landscaped garden or ocean views.

Shangri-La has very friendly staff and even some beach chairs in its lush garden.

Book Shangri-La  here  for your next Penang trip.

If you don’t like these options, then  click here  to see some other stay options in Batu Feringgi.

Accommodation options in Gurney Drive, Penang

Gurney Drive is a high-class suburb of Penang dotted with tall buildings, luxurious malls, and skyscraper hotels.

If you would love to stay at Gurney Drive to experience the locality and the exquisite seafood at Gurney Drive hawker center, here are some luxury options to stay there:

G Hotel Gurney – G Hotel overlooks Gurney Drive, a popular seafront promenade featuring delicious local street food. Equipped with an outdoor pool and an in-house restaurant and bar, the property offers double rooms and suites.

Known for its friendly staff and a relaxing spa, G Hotel is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable stay in with an ocean view and abundant street food a stone’s throw away.

Check the prices and book G Hotel here .

G Hotel Kelawai – G Hotel is a luxurious hotel with a rooftop bar and is about 500 m from Gurney Drive. The hotel offers deluxe double, twin, and premium rooms with panoramic city views.

Known for its contemporary decor and friendly staff, G Hotel also has an in-house restaurant with local and international food choices.

Look at the availability and prices of G Hotel Kelawai here .

Accommodation options in Tanjung Bungah, Penang

I stayed at Tanjung Bungah for a day and didn’t appreciate the area much. Far away from both Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah was a quiet and expensive residential area by the beach. With minimal nightlife and no cultural insights, I think you should only go to this area if you have some work there.

If you are heading to Tanjung Bungah, check out Sea Lion by the beach which was a comfortable place to stay.

Sea Lion by the Beach  – Sea Lion by the beach is an ancient bungalow that is just 2 minutes away from the beach. The property has single and double rooms with shared and private bathrooms.

Some of the rooms also come with a patio, and guests can use the kitchen, too. I loved the ancient bungalow and the property manager was friendly and offered me toast and tea when I arrived really late at night and had nothing to eat.

Also, the large garden of the house is visited by many birds and cats.

Browse through Sea Lion’s pictures and book your stay  here on Booking .

Penang accommodations are of various kinds. From homestays to hotels to hostels to resorts to boutique stays to villas, you can opt for any kind of place. Now it is up to you to choose your Penang stay as per your budget, your preferred activities, and your comfort.

How to travel to Penang, Malaysia?

By Air – You can fly to Penang from many international or domestic airports. Getting to Penang is especially easy from Thailand or Singapore as you have direct flights to Penang from these destinations. Kuala Lumpur is also a good stop to take a flight to Penang.

By Train  – Kuala Lumpur Central station to Butterworth station in Penang (mainland) is connected by a direct train which takes about 4-5 hours. In Butterworth, get a ferry or take a bus to reach the Penang island. Taking a train to Penang seems like a fun option if you have some time on hand. I couldn’t get the train for I was first going to Cameron Highlands (CH) but changed my mind on the CH bus stand to continue traveling to Penang.

By Bus – A convenient option to reach Penang is by bus. Buses are comfortable in Malaysia and run on time. My travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang by bus took me about 6 hours.

Though I can imagine how travel in Penang can be always fun, visiting Malaysia in monsoon should be avoided.  

November to January: This is the best time to go to Penang as the weather is pleasant and dry.

February to April: Travel to Penang during these months for dry but warmer weather.

May to October: Wettest months of Penang. I traveled to Penang at the peak monsoon season in October. While I was hiking Penang hill, the rain beat down hard on us hikers. I did a lot of random treks even in the rain, but I was limited due to the slippery terrains. But I must admit that I enjoy rains, and I was happy to be in Penang during the monsoon. 

You should get a small amount of money exchanged into local Ringgits at the airport. This small money will help you get into the city by taxi or bus. Later on, go to one of the street shops in Georgetown to exchange more. I always exchange at local licensed shops instead of banks or bigger money changers as the smaller shops give better rates.

I always use my ATM cards to withdraw cash. Though I need to write a detailed guide on how to manage money on international travel, I take out enough money that I will survive for a week, at least, to avoid paying the bank charges on international withdrawals frequently.

You can explore Penang for as cheap as you like. But you can also splurge easily in Penang. Your budget would depend on your choices. 

Accommodation — Look at the accommodation options that I have mentioned above, and choose a place as per your budget. 

Meals — My biggest expense in Penang. Though food is generally cheap in Penang, I spent around 5-10 ringgits on each meal. Damn you fried fish.

Transportation — I took Rapid Penang buses or walked to most of the places to visit in Penang. The buses were cheap or free, and, of course, walking is free. If you take taxis, you would have to pay more. Don’t expect a transportation cost of more than 10 ringgits per day even if you take short taxi rides coupled with rolling on legs or wheels.

Tickets to attractions of Penang— Some of the things to see in Penang such as the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, the temples, and the train ride to Penang hill would cost you a little bit. So keep those costs in mind while planning your budget.

Resources to help you visit some of the Penang famous places

Georgetown Penang street art map — Get the map here . A Penang tourist map by Penang government that lists the main Georgetown Murals and the street signs. The map doesn’t describe all the street art in Penang, like the next one, but this map talks about the history of Georgetown coming up as a tourist and art hub amongst other things.

Street art map Penang by Penang tourism board  — This one is my favorite as it is a detailed map to Penang art. This map tells the story behind all the major murals (by major I mean the popular ones as a lot of murals in Penang are good) and the description of all the 52 street signs in Georgetown Penang. You can get a hard copy this at the Penang airport and also at your hotel.

Georgetown Penang map covering the traditions and heritage of the Peranakan Chinese – and how they migrated to Malaysia. You must have heard of the Nyonya cuisine that is basically the food of Peranakan Chinese influenced by the local Malaysian food. Download or see this map here to read more about the Peranakan Chinese and their migration to Malaysia.

READ NEXT: What to eat in Penang —  Penang food guide

READ NEXT: A detailed guide to street art in Penang —  Penang street art guide

If you plan to spend some time in Malaysia, you should definitely check out Kinabatangan river, one of the two places to see Orangutans in the wild – Kinabatangan River Cruise Guide .

If you are still wondering whether to visit Malaysia — read some amazing things about Malaysia that would make you travel to Malaysia. 

Process of the Malaysia eVisa for Indians — Online visa to Malaysia  

Heading off to Bali after Malaysia? Check out my My Bali Travel Guide   – Best Things To Do in Bali and Beyond.

Are you clear about what to do in Penang in 3 days? Did you like my Penang guide? Let me know in the comments.

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to products and services I love. If you choose to click through and make a purchase or a booking, I will earn a little bit at no extra cost to you. Thank you.

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Penang Itinerary: The Best 3 Day Travel Guide You’ll Love

This super-detailed Penang itinerary will guide you through the best sights and things to do during your 3-day stay on this stunning island.

Plus, I’ll share with you must-try foods on the island that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

So, let’s check out my Penang 3-day itinerary below for the best places to explore and eat in this amazing island ! 🙂

Day 1: Wonder Food Museum, Peranakan Mansion, The TOP Penang and Others

Day 2: street art, kek lok si temple, penang hill and others, day 3: teddyville museum, entopia, escape penang and gurney plaza, ways to save on penang attraction tickets, penang itinerary 3 days map, the best places to stay in penang, how to get around penang, airport transportation services, have more days in malaysia, related posts.

Kickstart your Penang itinerary in the beautiful and colorful Georgetown. There are lots of spots to explore here , from museums to mansions. You’d also come across different religious and cultural sites.

And of course, I’ll recommend the best places to eat in the area . So, ready yourself for a fun-filled trip!

1. Wonder Food Museum – 1 hour (9:00 AM to 10:00 AM)

If you’re looking for a fun morning activity to include in your Penang schedule , make sure not to miss the Wonder Food Museum .

Inside this unique gallery are impressive food-themed creations and interactive installations.

Be amazed by the oversized food sculptures and life-sized local cuisines displayed around the tables . There’s so much to uncover in each section that highlights the history and culture of Malaysian dishes .

One of the famous exhibits in the museum is the Penang Asam Laksa . Take a closer look at this famous dish and marvel at the realistic designs.

Surely, this is a great way to learn more about the country’s rich culture and food history.

Ways to Save Money on Tickets: Get your Wonder Food Museum tickets online and save up to 13% OFF the regular price!

2. Penang Peranakan Mansion – 5 hours (10:00 AM to 11:30 PM)

No itinerary of Penang is complete without a visit to the Penang Peranakan Mansion. This cultural spot is helps you understand the history of the Peranakan people.

So, enter this beautifully-restored structure and get to know more about the Malay and Chinese heritage .

Walk around the mansion and discover its culture through the antique furniture and stunning carvings . There are also plenty of traditional textiles and clothing on exhibit.

a. Inner Courtyard

Wander around the inner courtyard and get mesmerized by the gorgeous architectural designs. These are highly recommended for backdrops.

So, if you’re looking for a photogenic background, this is such a good choice .

b. Dining Hall and Kitchen Area

Walk into the dining hall that is filled with breathtaking furniture and cultural pieces . The area itself is another gorgeous location for some photography sessions.

c. Family Hall

Continue the tour inside the family hall where lots of historical charms are displayed all over the walls. There are also several furniture pieces around this section that add up to its beauty.

d. Bridal Chamber and Bedroom

Drop by the bridal chamber and for sure you’ll love the colourful interiors. From the beds to the tables, there’s so much to unravel here.

3. Penang Little India – 15 minutes (11:30 PM to 11:45 PM)

Carry on with the adventure as you explore Penang Little India . This is somehow the same as Singapore Little India, which gives you a peek at the Indian heritage .

While wandering around, you’d be surprised at how well the Indian culture blended with Malaysian customs.

Check out the breathtaking murals and architectural styles. And don’t forget to visit one of the local stores that sell handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry pieces.

4. Goddess of Mercy Temple Penang – 15 minutes (11:45 PM to 12:00 PM)

Before taking your lunch, stop by the Goddess of Mercy Temple or also known as the Kuan Yin Temple . This was built during the 17 th century , making it the oldest Taoist temple in Penang .

Aside from its historical significance, the temple’s architectural style is also a stunner. See the beautiful paintings and sculptures within the temple .

And, don’t miss the large statue of Kuan Yin that is located in the main prayer hall .

5. Kapitan Keling Mosque – 10 minutes (12:00 PM to 12:10 PM)

Another famous religious location is the Kapitan Keling Mosque . Visit this mosque that was built by early Indian Muslim settlers .

Because of its cultural roots, this is acknowledged as one of the key sites that made George Town a UNESCO world heritage site .

6. Bee Hwa Café or Hameediyah Restaurant (Lunch) – 50 minutes (12:10 PM to 1:00 PM)

Option 1: bee hwa café.

Dine in at Bee Hwa Café , which is a long-running restaurant with over 20 years in service .

Some of their bestsellers are the Koay Teow Th’ng (Penang Chicken Soup) and White Curry Noodle.

They also offer Char Koay Teow, Hokkein Noodle, and Fried Rice. Each of these costs RM 6. But if you are on a tight on budget, the most recommended choice is their White Curry Noodle .

Option 2: Hameediyah Restaurant

If you’re looking for another option, there’s Hameediyah Restaurant . This is a famous eatery that offers a variety of delectable Malay cuisines .

Check out their signature dishes like Chicken Biryani Rice (RM 16), Fried Noodle (RM 7), and Beef Rendang (RM 17) .

7. Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion – 1 hour (1:00 PM to 2:00 PM)

After your lunch, spend some time at Cheong Fatt Tze . It’s quite easy to spot this structure because of the vivid blue color of the lower section.

Aside from the gorgeous hues, the architectural design of the mansion itself is breathtaking . No wonder it earned the coveted UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award .

The beauty of the mansion extends inside the premises, where you’ll find a glimpse of Chinese and Western cultures.

Explore the hallways and get dazzled by the distinctive ornaments and decorative floors all over the place.

8. Penang 3D Trick Art Museum – 5 hours (2:00 PM to 3:30 PM)

Don’t miss the fun as you visit the Penang 3D Trick Art Museum . This is a famous artsy destination for families and groups of friends who want to experience art like no other.

Here, you can pose with the 3D art installations and showcase your acting skills . Try to be as creative as possible and be surprised with the result.

And since there are lots of art pieces around, for sure you won’t run out of photography ideas !

Smart Saving Technique: Buy your 3D Trick Art Museum tickets online and enjoy a discount of up to 21% OFF the original price!

9. Clan Jetties of Penang – 30 minutes (3:30 PM to 4:00 PM)

Keep exploring and you’ll come across the Clan Jetties of Penang . It is nestled along the beautiful waterfront of Georgetown.

This traditional village once served as the home of the early Chinese settlers back in the 19 th century.

One of the unique features of the Clan Jetties is the vibrant way of living. As you step into the wooden walkways, you’ll be transported to how these immigrants lived in the past.

Capture the colorful surroundings with your family and friends. And for sure, you’ll experience a unique culture through the rustic houses with elaborative designs.

Breathe in the fresh air that surrounds the Folklore by the Sea mural. And of course, take a photo of the cultural mural on one of the houses on the stilt .

10. Dark Mansion – 3D Glow In The Dark Museum – 1 hour (4:00 PM to 5:00 PM)

Discover the Dark Mansion and be amazed by the fascinating 3D art installations. This top-rated museum is filled with paintings and optical illusions that radiate in the dark .

During your visit, make sure you snap a photo of Edgar Muller’s masterpiece . The artwork is recognized to be the biggest glow-in-the-dark painting in the world .

Since there are 5 themed attractions in the museum, you’d certainly enjoy your time here.  So, snap a lot of photos and have fun .

Money-Saving Tip: Don’t miss out on exclusive online offer – book your Dark Mansion museum tickets here and save up to 30% compared to buying on site!

11. The TOP Penang (Rainbow Skywalk & Obervatory Deck) – 5 hours (5:00 PM to 7:30 PM)

When planning an itinerary for Penang, be sure to include The TOP Penang. Towering at 816 feet, this is considered the highest entertainment building in Georgetown .

And with its soaring height, it’s a popular location to capture the entire cityscape .

a. Indoor Observatory Deck

Head to the observatory deck, which is located at level 65 of the tower. This is a favorite spot among locals and visitors who want to catch a bird’s eye view of the island .

While on top, you’d be able to see top tourist sites like Gurney Drive, Penang Hill, Penang Bridge, and Penang Jetty .

b. Rainbow Skywalk

Watch the sunset while wandering around the Rainbow Skywalk.

However, this might not be for the faint-hearted. It’s because the observation deck comes with a glass bottom . This means you can also see the buildings if you look below!

Clever Strategies for Saving Money: Why pay full price at The TOP Penang tickets? Buy your tickets online here and get up to 10% OFF!

12. New Lane Hawker Centre or Village Fish Head Bee Hoon (Dinner) – 1 hour (7:30 PM to 8:30 PM)

Option 1: new lane hawker centre.

Dig into New Lane Hawker Centre and enjoy a hearty meal! You won’t be disappointed with the options here, from noodles to barbecued foods.

Some of the most popular dishes are the Charcoal Seafood Char Kuey Teow (RM 9), Loh Bak (RM 15), and Wonton Noodles (RM 6.50).

Satay is also recommended, and this comes in either pork (10 sticks – RM 14) or chicken (10 sticks – RM 13). Other tasty dishes include chicken wings (RM 3 per piece), fried oysters (RM 13), and a lot more!

Option 2: Village Fish Head Bee Hoon

The second option would be the Village Fish Head Bee Hoon . This is highly suggested if you’re looking for a Tom Yum noodle soup paired with fried fish fillets .

Fascinatingly, you can pick your preferred ingredients to be added to the soup . Some of the options include fish balls, prawns, meatballs, eggs, sausages, and the like .

The price starts around RM 15, depending on your chosen ingredients.

The second day of this plan begins at Penang’s most iconic street art murals.

You’ll also stop by some cultural sites, temples, and local restaurants . And of course, this is the day when you’ll visit the scenic Penang Hill .

1. Penang Street Arts – 30 minutes (9:00 AM to 9:30 AM)

Start your day by checking out the “Brother & Sister on a Swing” mural. This is one of the striking paintings that portray the lifestyle of the early settlers.

Also, make sure not to miss the other wall paintings in the area. Check out the remarkable “Auntie Selling Soya” as well as the “Hoola Hoop Basketball” designs. Lastly, see the nostalgic “I Want Bao” art.

2. Street Arts and Floating Colorful Umbrellas – 30 minutes (9:30 AM to 10:00 AM)

Continue with the cultural escapade as you stop by the “ Kids on Bicycle” . This section is quite popular in Penang and is visited by many tourists all year round .

Aside from this street art, you’d also come across the “Boy on Motorbike” and “Boy on Chair” murals. Completing the list is none other than the “Floating Colorful Umbrellas” .

3. Armenian Street – 20 minutes (10:00 AM to 10:20 AM)

After seeing the murals, navigate around Armenian Street . This historic pathway shelters a number of antique buildings in Penang .

Here, you’d find the Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi as well as the Choo Chay Keong Temple.

The building walls are also fringed with gorgeous artwork embellishments that add up to the charms of the place.

And while walking around, don’t forget to shop from one of the traditional shops . There are plenty of unique handicrafts and ornaments perfect as souvenirs .

4. Choo Chay Keong Temple – 10 minutes (10:20 AM to 10:30 AM)

Pay a visit to Choo Chay Keong Temple , which is an important religious site in the island . Finding this shrine is quite easy. It’s because of the Chinese architectural design that exudes all over the temple’s exteriors.

The dragon pillars and the intricate elements on the front porch also make the shrine eye-catching. So, try to be creative and use the beautiful facade as your photo background .

5. Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi – 30 minutes (10:30 AM to 11:00 AM)

Keep on with the morning exploration and uncover the Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi . This spectacular Chinese temple was built by the Khoo clan in the 19 th century .

As part of the most powerful Chinese clans in the past, they created a temple that stood the test of time.

Admire the magnificent exteriors with intricate roofs and ornamented pillars.

And, before you enter the breathtaking temple, look closely at the stone carvings of lions and dragons. These creatures were believed to protect the shrine from bad spirits and bring in fortune.

As you enter the temple, you’d be captivated by the golden interiors engulfing the premises.

Scan the main altar and discover different ceramic and wood sculptures. There are also plenty of mural paintings displayed around the walls.

6. Upside Down Museum – 5 hours (11:00 AM to 12:30 PM)

One of the top attractions on a Penang itinerary is the Upside Down Museum . Unlike typical museums, this is highly interactive because of the uniqueness of the art pieces .

All the displays and designs are positioned upside down. This means that you need to showcase your creativity to capture the essence of the art.

Equipped with themed rooms, you’d have lots of opportunities to highlight your skills here. Explore the living room, kitchen, and bedroom and take all sorts of photos.

The staff members will assist you with taking photos and offering helpful tips on how to pose correctly in the upside-down environment.

7. Mural – “Love on Bicycle” – 5 minutes (12:30 PM to 12:35 PM)

Before taking your lunch, swing by the Love on Bicycle mural . This is another favorite street art among locals and travellers alike. So, try to photograph this location as you pass by the area .

8. Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul – 10 minutes (12:35 PM to 12:45 PM)

Take a break and head to Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul to try their best-selling dessert . This is such a perfect treat that you wouldn’t want to miss.

The dessert contains green pandan-flavored noodles with shaved ice and sweetened coconut milk . It also comes with some red beans . You can get this delicious dessert for only RM 4.50 per cup .

9. Joo Hooi Café (Lunch) – 45 minutes (12:45 PM to 1:30 PM)

Now, for your lunch, go to Joo Hooi Café . Brimming with traditional vibes, this café is definitely a great location to relax while eating some local dishes .

Their best-sellers include the Penang-style Char Koay Teow (RM 8.50), Laksa (RM 7), and Lor Bak (RM 10 to RM 15).

You may also want to try their Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks (RM 6 per piece) and Crispy Chicken Skin (RM 6 per cup) .

10. Kek Lok Si Temple – 5 hours (2:00 PM to 4:30 PM)

After a hearty meal at the local café, it’s time to discover the Kek Lok Si Temple . As a famous Buddhist temple in Penang, many tourists visit this location .

a. Main Prayer Hall and Grand Hall

When you enter the temple, you’d be surrounded by magnificent carvings and stunning murals . These decorations blend well with each other, making the temple more attractive.

b. Standing Buddha, Seated Buddha, and Beautiful Garden

There are also several Buddha statues inside and outside the shrine .

Aside from the religious sculptures, the temple contains a number of scenic gardens . Here, you can unwind and take some photos of the lush scenery and vibrant flowers .

c. 7-Tier Pagoda

While wandering around the gardens, make sure you drop by the 7-Tier Pagoda . This towering structure is one of the key parts of the temple .

d. Goddess of Mercy

Perched on top of the hill is a breathtaking bronze statue that would surely catch your attention. It was made to honor the Goddess of mercy and compassion, Kuan Yin .

Standing at 30 meters tall , this spectacular figure is considered the country’s largest statue . Because of its soaring height, you need to ride the Sky Lift to reach the hilltop.

Alternative Solution: Join this famous Bus Tour in Penang. It covers Kek Lok Si Temple and Penang Hill! 🙂

11. Penang Hill – 5 hours (4:30 PM to 8:00 PM)

Visiting Penang Hill is a must-add to your travel plan when exploring the island. It’s a well-known destination that lets you explore up to the peak of the hill .

So, here are some of the spots in Penang Hill that should be included during your visit.

a. Viewing Deck

Be one with nature as you unwind at the viewing deck. This is a scenic location for relaxation and simple conversations with your loved ones.

b. Sky Terrace

If you want to listen to some live music, move to the Sky Terrace. Aside from the romantic vibes, this place also serves tasty snacks .

For only RM 32 each, you can buy a Cheesy Chicken Burger, BBQ Chicken Burger, or Fish Burger.

Additionally, they have Twister Fries, Cheesy Wedges, and Smoked Cocktail Sausage. Each of these costs RM 20.

c. Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple

The next destination would be the Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple , which is made in honor of Lord Murugan .

Navigate around the area and marvel at how this religious site has been preserved for many years.

Even as one of the oldest Hindu shrines in Penang , the beauty of the place still remains. Look closely at the vivid designs and capture its charms with your camera.

d. Gate House Bel Retiro

Did you know that the Gate House Bel Retiro is considered one of the most prominent properties in Penang?

This was constructed during the 17 th century as a tribute to the governor of the island. Because of its elegance, the structure is quite popular when it comes to picture-taking .

e. Astaka Cliff Café

Another remarkable dining spot in the area is the Astaka Cliff Café .

Uniquely, this nestles on a cliff, so you’d get panoramic views of the towering hills of Penang while eating your food. So, order one of their delicious meals and capture the gorgeous beauty of Penang Hill.

Apart from meals and snacks, you’d also love the selection of hot and cold drinks.

They have fresh juices, hot coffee, tea, and more, ranging between RM 2.50 to RM 6.50 . The Ice Kacang is a must-try dessert too. It costs around RM 6 to RM 15 , depending on the flavor.

f. The Habitat

Finish off your adventure in this hill resort by strolling around The Habitat .

This is the best place to capture the beautiful rainforest in its purest form. Since the site quite extensive , you need to allocate at least an hour here .

12. Keat Seng Restaurant (Dinner) – 1 hour (8:00 PM to 9:00 PM)

Spend your dinner at the Keat Seng Restaurant , which is located nearby the Penang Hill Lower Station . You can choose from the array of local dishes as well as some Chinese, Indian, and Japanese cuisines .

Their best-sellers include the Hokkien Mee (RM 6), Fish Fillet Noodle Soup (RM 11), and Fried Oyster Omelette. Other options are the Tau Foo, Tomyam Noodle Soup, and Curry Mee.

Your itinerary’s last day is the perfect time to explore some of Penang’s famous attractions . These include TeddyVille Museum , Entopia , and Escape Penang .

And after the fun-filled day, you’d be capping off the trip at Gurney Drive Hawker Center and Gurney Plaza .

1. TeddyVille Museum @ Batu Ferringhi – 1 hour (9:00 AM to 10:00 AM)

Commence your day with a trip to the TeddyVille Museum . This is a perfect choice for those travelling with kids or anyone who loves teddy bears.

The museum offers an impressive collection of charming and cuddly bears in various colors and sizes .

And uniquely, there are some teddy bears that are dressed in local costumes to portray different cultures . So, go around the exhibits and meet these cute figures. Pose with them or use them as your backdrop .

2. Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm + Lunch – 2 hours (10:20 AM to 12:20 PM)

After your teddy bear encounter at the museum, it’s time to unravel the beauty of Entopia Penang . The place houses more than 60 different butterfly species . At present, they have over 15,000 butterflies .

They also have an extensive collection of insects, reptiles, and more . Check out their habitat one by one and unravel their unique features through the compartments.

Stroll along the lush garden bursting with beautiful flying creatures. There’s also a small waterfall inside the farm that is very scenic .

And during your trip, try to revisit the life cycle of a butterfly or get to know more about the characteristics of these insects.

Aside from the exhibits, the farm also offers a lot of interactive learning programs and fun educational activities. So, if you’re with kids, this is a great opportunity for them to learn more about these animals.

How to save on entrance tickets? Take advantage of online offer and book your Entopia tickets online to enjoy up to a 10% discount.

Lunch (Tapestree Café @ Entopia): Take a break and have your lunch at Tapestree Café. This dining spot offers a wide selection of tasty Asian and Western snacks and meals.

You can try their Chicken Rendang with White Rice (RM 26), Chicken Chop with Fries (RM 26), or Chicken Rice (RM 24).

If you want a lighter meal, they have Spaghetti Aglio Olio with Chicken (RM 24) and Fish & Chips (RM 26).

3. ESCAPE Penang Theme Park – 5 hours (12:30 PM to 6:00 PM)

After filling your stomach, embark on a journey to ESCAPE Penang . Visiting this theme park is a must, especially for those with a penchant for outdoor fun.

Ready yourself for an exciting adventure loaded with thrilling activities. Try the world’s longest zip coaster and experience the thrill as you travel through the breathtaking nature scenes at a fast pace .

There are also water slides for adults and kids. If you have the guts, take on the world’s longest tube water slide . And of course, the obstacle courses are totally fascinating.

So, make sure you don’t forget to add ESCAPE Penang to your must-go list  to experience a day of fun and excitement.

Discounted Entry Tickets: Why pay more on-site? Book your Escape Penang tickets online to get cheaper prices!

4. Gurney Drive Hawker Centre (Dinner) – 1 hour (6:30 PM to 7:30 PM)

Following a fun-filled day at ESCAPE Penang, it’s best that you eat dinner at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre . Here, you have lots of tasty food options according to your liking .

If you’re craving some noodles, you can try the Prawn Noodle (RM 6.50), Asam Laksa (RM 5.50), or Char Koay Teow (RM 7) .

Fried and grilled foods are readily available too like the Fried Oyster (RM 18) and Lok Lok (RM 1.30 per stick).

5. Gurney Plaza – 2 hours (7:30 PM to 9:30 PM)

Complete your trip by shopping at Gurney Plaza , which is located within the Gurney Drive section of Penang. This offers an impressive variety of shops, making it one of the favorite spots among shopaholics .

Go around the massive mall and visit different luxury shops and local stores. There are heaps of clothing lines, fashion brands, beauty items, and skincare products .

And of course, dining is not a problem here. You’d find several fast-food restaurants and cafes around to satisfy your needs.

Some of the most recommended dining areas are Ippudo Ramen and Sushi Tei as well as Din Tai Fung and Canton-i Restaurant .

If you’re considering a trip to Entopia Penang, The Top Komtar, and Escape Penang, the combined cost of tickets would be RM 269.10 (For Malaysian) and RM 283.50 (For Non-Malaysian).

However, with the Penang Multi-Attraction Pass , you can enjoy all these attractions for just RM 220 (For Malaysian) and RM 225 (For Non-Malaysian), saving you RM 49.10 (For Malaysian) and RM 58.50 (For Non-Malaysia) . The more people in your group, the more you can save on your overall expenses .

The Penang Multi-Attraction Pass offers flexible options such as a 2-Attraction, 3-Attraction, or 4-Attraction pass . This pass cover up to 9 tourist spots in Penang . For more details, just check out the link below.

Also, gives you the freedom to pick and choose which attractions to visit and when to visit them , depending on your preferences and schedule.

• Check out Penang Multi-Attraction Pass here

The map above is created by me to make it easier for you to understand my 3 days trip in Penang .

Although there are lots of options at hand, the best area to stay in Penang for tourists is Georgetown .

The place itself is brimming with advantages. Below are some of the key elements that make this highly recommended for tourists:

• Culture and History: As a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’d be surrounded by all sorts of colonial structures and cultural charms. These include museums, temples, street murals, and more.
• Abundance of Dining Options: Of course, the food choices here are top-notch. You’d love the street food scene that is filled with fast-food restaurants, local eateries, and hawker stalls. So, if you’re craving some local and international dishes, it’s easy to find a place to eat.
• Proximity to Key Sites: Since it’s situated in the heart of Penang Island, you can conveniently visit one attraction to another. It’s a strategic base point when exploring different tourist sections.
• Vibrant Night Scene: Lastly, the nightlife scene here is outstanding. You can enjoy the night at some cafes or restaurants. There are plenty of bars in the area too.

Recommended Hotels in Georgetown

• Sunway Hotel Georgetown : This 4-star hotel is just a minute’s walk to New Lane Hawker Centre. It’s also 5 minutes away from The TOP Penang, providing easy access to attractions in Georgetown. Plus, you won’t have a hard time booking a grab car in the area.
• Eastern & Oriental Hotel : If you’re looking for a historic and scenic accommodation in Penang, this is the best choice. Fringed with rich history and cultural elements, this luxurious hotel offers a lot of sophisticated rooms.
• Hotel NEO+ Penang : For travellers on a tight budget, this 3-star hotel is the answer to your needs. It’s an affordable accommodation with comfortable rooms. On top of that, it is situated close to Sunway Hotel.
• OZO George Town : This is another recommendation that provides cosy and modern rooms. It also comes with a rooftop pool that is a perfect spot to wind down after your day-to-day activities.

1. Grab Car

One of the most convenient ways to explore the island is by booking a ride through Grab Car . This is highly suggested if you want a competitive and clear pricing. To use this, you just book via the mobile app .

2. Join a Guided Tour of Penang

When it comes to cheaper transportation, the best option would be to join guided tours .

Apart from its affordability, tours are very convenient . It’s because the tour company prepares your agenda to save time and effort .

And since you’d be guided by the locals, it’s a great way to learn more about the island’s history and culture . As of this writing, there are 2 popular guided tours available in Penang – Guided Tour 1 and Guided Tour 2 .

The first option covers the Kek Lok Si temple and Penang Hill attractions . On the other hand, the second tour brings you to Georgetown .

3. Car Rental with a Professional Driver

For a more personalized trip, you may rent a car with a professional driver. This is highly suggested if you want to tailor your schedule at your own pace and discover Penang with no restrictions from tours.

Plus, this is a remarkable choice if you hate long taxi and public transportation queues . It could also be a great option for those travelling with kids or even groups of friends .

You may check out the private car services here and find out more about the current car hire prices for half and full day services.

4. Rent a Car and Drive Yourself

If you know how to drive, then you can rent a car and explore the island on your own . This is the best choice for those who want to visit the top tourist spots and even some hidden gems in no hurry .

Moreover, renting and driving a car is a commendable choice for groups and families. For reference, try to check out car rental online and see the car rental options available.

1. Rapid Penang

The Rapid Penang is one of the two airport transportation options.

This public bus ride operates from 6:00 AM to 11:15 PM , with a frequency of every 60 to 80 minutes . As to the bus fare, it’s currently priced at RM 4 per person .

If you choose this, you just ride Bus 102 from Penang Airport to Georgetown . The travel time would probably reach an hour or so .

Although this is a good choice, I do not recommend this if you have lots of luggage . It’s because the bus does not have enough space for storage .

2. Private Airport Transfer by Car or Van

If you prefer door-to-door transportation , it’s ideal that you book a private airport transfer . This is very convenient , especially for those who want seamless transportation from the airport to your hotel .

Since this is a direct transfer, you won’t have to deal with lots of stops . Plus, you can choose either a car or a van, depending on your preference .

So, try to check out the private airport transfer here and pick the vehicle that best suits your needs.

If you’ve got extra days in Malaysia, don’t hesitate to explore Genting SkyWorlds in Genting Highlands or Kuala Lumpur . These two are spectacular places that also deserve a visit.

Genting Highlands is recommended if you love theme parks, shopping malls, and casinos.

Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur is very popular because it’s the capital of the country. So, it’s filled with modern structures and cultural landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka Square, and Batu Caves.

And of course, the vibrant and diverse food options make it more exciting to visit!

Thank you for taking the time to read my complete Penang holiday itinerary . I hope this article will be a useful resource for you in planning the perfect trip to this wonderful island. 🙂

Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: Your Ideal 5 Days Trip in KL Guide

20 Best Genting SkyWorlds Rides Guaranteed to Wow You

Bangkok Itinerary: The Best 5 Day Trip Guide for Reference

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Thanks Josh, I must say yours is by far the best n most comprehensive guide of Penang! Thank you!

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One week itinerary for penang – malaysia travel guide 2024.

Table of Contents

An action packed adventurous 7 day itinerary for Penang including trekking, beaches, amazing food and culture

If you are planning a trip to Penang here is THE BEST one week itinerary for Penang 2024. Up to date, fresh and accurate information including all of the best MUST NOT MISS attractions. 

Penang is a beautiful island off the west coast of peninsular Malaysia. Whether you want beaches, wildlife, jungle trekking, city exploration, temples or amazing street food, Penang has it all. 

We are experienced travelers who have lived in Penang and we have expert travel information on the best attractions and local secrets that Penang has to offer. In this itinerary for Penang we help you get to grips with all of the best things to do in Penang and guide you through your trip step by step. We love to equip other travellers to have epic adventures. 

Penang deserves its reputation for its amazing food, its beautiful fusion of cultures and excellent natural scenery. There really are so many amazing things to do in Penang . Penang has many of the exciting attractions of a tropic island, combined with the convenience and comfort of a well developed island. Penang is very well connected. It is linked to the mainland by a couple of long road bridges. You can also take a ferry to Langkawi from Penang. Penang also has an airport offering domestic and international connections. 

SHORT OF TIME? Don’t miss our 3 day Penang Itinerary

What is the best area to stay in Penang? Don’t miss our guide on THE BEST areas to stay in Penang

How to use this itinerary for Penang

All of the activities in this itinerary for Penang are based on Penang island (Pulau Pinang). This itinerary is ideal for anyone staying in either GeorgeTown or Batu ferringhi. Several days require travel round the island and you will need to do a little travel wherever you are staying. If you are on a budget this can be done by bus. If you want convenience there are plenty of taxis in Penang. Alternatively consider car rental for convenience. 

This itinerary for Penang is very adaptable: It is easy to switch around the days and do things in a different order. There are also several more active trekking days which could be substituted for time relaxing by the pool with a drink. We have recommended a one week itinerary as we think this is the optimum amount of time to enjoy most of the epic activities and attractions that Penang has to offer. If you have more time, you could easily slow the pace. 

Map of your one week itinerary for Penang

Here is an interactive map of the ONE WEEK itinerary for Penang. Click on the pins for more details…

One week itinerary for Penang overview

Day 1 George town walking tour and Newlane Hawkers 

Day 2 Kek Lok Si Temple, Air Itam and Penang hill for sunset

Day 3 Entopia, Teluk Bahang Forest Eco Park and Batu Ferringhi night market

Day 4 Botanical gardens and Penang hill secret rest station

Day 5 National park trek to turtle beach

Day 6 Morning market, the Tropical Spice Gardens and the Tropical Fruit Farm

Day 7 escape theme park and waterpark.

Note: before you plan your trip be aware that some venues may be closed on public holidays. There are many public holidays in Malaysia so plan carefully. Escape Theme Park and Waterpark (Day 7 of this itinerary) is closed on Mondays. 

One week itinerary for Penang – The BEST places to stay

This itinerary for Penang is mostly focussed on the north of the island where there are more attractions. Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi are the best places to stay if you are following this itinerary for Penang. 

We have selected a range of great accommodation options in Penang. We have tried to include something for everyone. We spend loads of time researching to make sure we find the best places to stay. 

It’s a bit cheeky but if you plan to stay in any of these recommended hotels, please could you use our links to book them as we get a little commission at no extra cost to you (it’s the big boys at booking.com that take the hit, not you or us) This helps keep us on and our family on the road writing blogs to help you adventure!

TRAVELLING WITH KIDS? Don’t miss our guide on THE BEST Penang Family Hotels

LOOKING FOR A SPLASH OF LUXURY? Check out THE BEST 5 star hotels in Penang

LOOKING FOR SOME CULTURE? Don’t miss these amazing Georgetown Heritage Hotels

LOOKING FOR A BARGAIN? Don’t miss our guide to THE BEST budget hotels in Penang

What are prices like in Penang?

This itinerary for Penang should be relatively cheap as Penang is relatively cheap as a travel destination. 

Activities tend to be relatively cheap in Malaysia. Be aware that many places in Malaysia implement a dual pricing system – so it will be cheaper for Malaysians than foreign visitors. This can make some travellers feel frustrated or discriminated against. The best way to avoid disappointment is to be aware of this culture and recognise that activities, accommodation and food are generally much cheaper in Malaysia and so you are likely to save money on your trip overall. 

Penang is generally a very cheap location for an amazing family holiday. Here are some example of prices in Penang to help you plan and budget for your Penang trip:

• Street food is generally very cheap. Most dishes range from RM 5 – RM 15 depending on the size of the dish and the ingredients. Drinks are also generally relatively cheap. If you are at a hawker centre or restaurant you can generally buy drinks for RM 1 – RM 3.
• Western food is more expensive than local food, but will still probably be cheaper than western food in western countries. You can generally find nice western dishes ranging from RM 25 – RM 60 depending on the restaurant and the dish. 
• Accommodation is much cheaper than many western countries. However, accommodation in Malaysia is a little more expensive than other southeast asian countries (such as Thailand and Cambodia). Cheap rooms in hostels (fan not A.C.) start at around RM40. Most mid-range rooms (air conditioning) cost around RM 100 – RM 150. 
• Penang is connected by a good local bus system and you will generally pay less than RM 5 even for long journeys. 
• The best way to get taxis is Malaysia is to use the Grab App . Journeys around Penang normally cost between RM5 for short local journeys up to RM60 to get across the island. 
• Long distance buses are also very cheap and comfortable in Malaysia. For example, it typically costs around RM 40 to travel from Penang to Kuala Lumpur (around 360km and 5-6 hours)
• Alcohol tends to be less available and expensive relative to local prices in Malaysia due to high taxation. Having said that, you can often find bars in hotels, cities and tourist hotspots.   

One week itinerary for Penang BUDGET tips

Here are a few budget tips to help you save money in the itinerary for Penang… 

• If you are really travelling on a budget be prepared to share a room where possible. Contact your accommodation in advance to check if there will be any additional charges for having a child staying in your room. 
• Eat street food rather than western food. The street food in Penang is cheap, delicious and readily available. You can try Indian, Chinese and Malay food in most towns. We have tried to recommend some great places to eat in this itinerary for Penang
• It is not normal to barter for food and drinks. However we do recommend that you barter at the night market. You can also try bartering for accommodation if you are on a serious budget. You can barter for taxis, however many drivers in Penang use a taxi meter. 
• It is possible to do this itinerary for Penang by public transport. We have given all of the public transport details in the main itinerary. 

How much will this itinerary for Penang cost? 

We estimate that this itinerary for Penang is likely to cost around £200 – £600 depending on how much of a budget you are on.

The following overview should give you a rough idea of how much it will cost to follow this ONE WEEK itinerary for Penang. These prices do not include visa costs or transport costs to and from Penang.

What activities do you need to pre-book in this itinerary for Penang?

You do not need to pre-book any of the activities on this itinerary unless you wish to arrange tours for a larger group or you wish to arrange a private tour. 

We do recommend pre-booking the ESCAPE Theme Park and Waterpark because the prices increase closer to the date of visit. If you pre-book the Furnicular Railway, you can buy fast lane tickets to reduce waiting time.

Here is a summary of the activities that you can pre-book online in advance for this itinerary: 

Day 1 George town walking tour and Newlane Hawkers

The first day of this itinerary for Penang starts with a self guided walking tour of Georgetown. This is the perfect way to acclimatize and get your bearings… and of course try some of the famous Penang street food. 

Pack a day bag and dress in light comfortable clothing with comfortable walking shoes for this Penang city tour. George town is a beautiful UNESCO world heritage site with temples, street art, street food, colonial buildings and its own little India. The following walking tour is a loop (approximately 5km) including many of the main attractions of George Town. The total time for the loop will take 3 – 5 hours if you stop and enjoy each attraction. We put Fort Cornwallis at the start of the loop but you could start at any point that is convenient for you. If you visit the destination in order (from any start point) you will minimize the distance you need to walk:  

• Fort Cornwallis

Visit Fort Cornwallis (North East corner of George Town). This is a colonial fort with nice views of the jetty and little India. Opposite Fort Cornwallis is the Penang Trick Art museum. 

• The Peranakan Mansion 

The Peranakan Mansion is a striking ornate Mansion with antiques and ornaments celebrating the vibrant  and beautiful culture of the Baba’s and Nonya’s. This is a great way to learn about the rich cultural history and diversity of Penang. 

• St George’s Church and Goddess of Mercy Buddhist Temple

As you walk up Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling you will see St George’s church and The Goddess of Mercy Buddhist temple on your right. When you get to the Goddess of Mercy temple, turn left along Lubuh China (China street) walk two blocks and then turn right and walk up Lebuh King (King Street) and walk through little India. 

• Little India (Jalan Chulia and Lebuh King)

As you walk through little india keep your eye out for excellent indian food. Walk up Lebuh King until you hit Jalan Chulia (Chulia street). Kapitans is based on Jalan Chulia and serves amazing tandoori and Indian food. Also keep your eye open for shops selling roti (Indian bread) and dahl. You will also see shops selling Indian Spices and ornaments. You can also see Hindu temples in the area. Don’t miss the Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple on Lebuh Queen (Queen Street).

• Yap Kongsi Temple 

From little India walk up to the Yap Kongsi Temple past the Kapitans Mosque. Yap Kongsi is a small and very beautiful Chinese temple. If you are interested in a bike rickshaw, they normally wait near this temple. Expect to pay around RM30 – RM40 for a 1 hour rickshaw bike tour. Bartering is acceptable. 

• Famous Penang street art

Keep an eye out for the famous Penang street art. The awesome pictures are found on buildings along Muntri Street, Weld Quay, Lebuh Leith, Armenian Street, Ah Quee Street and more. Once you have explored the street art walk southbound on Armenian street until you meet the coat road (Pengkalan Weld) where you can explore the jetties and settlements that overlook the ocean. 

• Jetties and the Hean Boo Thean Kuan Yin Temple

The jetties and settlements run for around 0.5km south of the Penang ferry terminal. These jetties (wooden piers) were built for trade and transportation by Chinese migrants who moved to Malaysia early in the 19th century to trade. Don’t miss the Hean Boo Thean Kuan Yin Buddhist Temple (on the of Pintasan Pengkalan 1). 

• Komtar tower and shopping mall

After exploring the jetties, walk up Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong towards Komtar tower. Komtar tower is a central shopping and transportation hub in George Town. You will see Komtar shopping mall on your left and Komtar tower behind it. If you enjoy shopping take a little time to explore the Komtar shopping mall. At the end of Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong turn right onto Penang road and then immediately turn right again on to Lebuh Keng Kwee.

• Penang road street food (Lebuh Keng Kwee)

During the day Lebuh Keng Kwee street has lots of small streetside stalls (hawkers) and small cafes serving Malaysian Chinese food. Don’t miss Assam Laksa (spicy noodle soup with fish), Chendul (a sweet shaved ice dessert with coconut) and char koay teow (Malaysian fried noodles with vegetables and seafood). After enjoying some Chinese Malaysian treats, keep walking up Penang road (away from Komtar) until the road splits. Go right along Leith street until you see the Blue Mansion on your right. 

• Blue Mansion (Cheong Fatt Tze)

The blue mansion was built by an influential Chinese businessman and politician called Cheong Fatt Tze, who aimed to celebrate and preserve the beautiful Chinese culture and heritage. Construction started in 1896. Cheong Fatt Tze used the finest materials and builders to construct the blue mansion, which became an iconic attraction of George Town. The blue mansion now offers boutique accommodation, fine dining and tours of the property. You can now do daily tours in English at 11am and 2pm. The cost is RM 25 for adults and RM 12.50 for children. You can book tickets for the Blue Mansion in advance.

At the end of the walking tour you could also drop by Upper Penang Road (on the junction of Penang road and Jalan Sultan Ahmed Shah) where you will find several bars offering outdoor seating areas. 

In the evening go to Newlane Hawkers near Komtar to try some amazing Penang street food. Newlane Hawkers serves a range of Chinese and Malay street food with outdoor seating. It is open from around 4pm – 10pm (excluding Wednesdays). Alternatively check out the New World Park Hawker Centre in Georgetown. This provides a wide range of hawker food and indoor seating. 

Day two of this itinerary for Penang involves a visit to a spectacular hill temple and also the summit of Penang hill. This is an active and adventurous day on the itinerary for Penang. 

Air Itam is a suburban district to the southwest of George Town and located at the base of Penang hill (Bukit Bendera). Air Itam means “black water” in Malay and is named after the Air Itam dam. Air Itam is a frequent starting point for trekking up Penang hill, an amazing destination for street food, especially famous for assam laksa and also the home to the base station of the Penang mountain railway (gondola). 

Kek Lok Si temple (Hokkien “Supreme Joy” temple) is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and dates back to 1891. The temple is made up of various prayer halls, pagodas, courtyards, pavilions and statues of Buddha and Chinese deities.

Entry to the temple is free and it costs RM2 to enter the pagoda. Don’t miss the impressive Temple of Supreme Bliss (Guan Yin Statue) a short distance up the road behind Kek Lok Si temple. 

After exploring Kek Lok Si temple try some of the incredible Air Itam street food. Many hawker stalls can be found near the market on the intersection of Jalan Paya Terubung and Jalan Pasar (where the bus stops). It is possible to get a Grab taxi from the top of Kek Lok Si (by the Guan Yin statue) to the funicular railway station for around RM5-6. 

If you get a chance you can also see the Bat Cave Temple (located around 1km from the funicular railway station in Air Itam). Sadly the temple building has been destroyed by a fire. However, it is still possible to visit the cave itself and see the bats hanging out there. 

Visit Penang Hill

Penang Hill is the largest hill in Penang. Covered in beautiful 130 million year old rainforest and affording panoramic views over Penang island. This really is a must do activity.

We recommend taking the Penang Hill Railway (Funicular railway) up Penang hill to see the sunset which is around 6pm-7pm all year round: Tickets can be purchased on arrival at the Penang hill lower station (in Air Itam). Trains run through the day and into the evening. The last train leaves the top station around 11pm in the evening. 

Adult standard ticket (13-59 years old)

• RM15 one way
• RM30 return 
• Fast lane RM45 one way 
• Fast lane RM80 return 

Children’s standard ticket (4-12 years old)

• RM8 one way
• RM15 return
• Fast lane RM20 one way 
• Fast lane RM40 return 

Alternatively if you are feeling energetic and adventurous you can walk up Penang Hill from Air Itam. There are several trekking routes. Be prepared that the shortest trekking route is around 3km and mostly up a steep gradient. It is likely to take 1-2 hours to trek up Penang hill even for relatively fit trekkers.

We strongly recommend staying on marked trails and having a hiking map or a map function enabled on your phone. Bring plenty of water, good trekking shoes (trainers are ideal) and light loose clothing. One of the shortest trekking routes up Penang hill from Air Itam starts at the end of Jalan Lintang.

Visit The Habitat Penang Hill

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the Habitat Penang Hill

The Habitat Penang Hill is an eco complex situated at the summit of Penang Hill. The Habitat features a range of installations designed to help you connect with and immerse yourself in the beautiful ancient Penang jungle. Don’t miss the Curtis Crest tree top walk; a circular arial canopy walkway that affords stunning 360 views of the beautiful Penang island and jungle canopy; a stunning spot to see the sunset.

Various trails, observation decks and huts enable you to enjoy the flora and fauna of the rainforest. There is even a small zipline course called “The Flight of the Colugo” 3 ziplines, 1 abseil and a rope bridge (RM105 per person 9.30am – 4pm, limited slots available so it is advisable to book in advance). 

Standard adult ticket RM60

Standard child or senior citizen RM40

Family pass (2 adults and 2 children) RM160

• Curtis Crest treetop walk
• The Langur Way canopy walk
• The trail and gardens

Email: [email protected]

How do you get to Air Itam from George Town? 

We recommend taking a bus or taxi to Air Itam as it is too far to walk from George Town. You can take bus number 203 from the Jetty to Air Itam. Bus 203 runs along Lebuh Light past Fort Cornwallis and then turns left up Jalan Penang. In Air Itam the bus stops near the intersection of Jalan Paya Terubung and Jalan Pasar in Air Itam. From here it is around a 1.5km walk to the Kek Lok Si temple and around 1.3km to the base station of the mountain railway. Alternatively a Grab taxi from Georgetown to Air Itam should cost around RM15 each way. 

Day 3 Entopia butterfly farm, Teluk Bahang forest ECO park and batu ferringhi night market

This day of the itinerary for Penang is designed to immerse you in the beautiful biodiversity of Penang in a relaxed and fun way.

Day 3 of this itinerary for Penang starts with a visit to the magical Entopia. The Entopia Penang butterfly farm is a beautiful indoor collection of plants, trees, butterflies and other insects. Don’t miss our FULL guide on Entopia .

They have magical winding trails, ponds and even indoor waterfalls. This is the perfect way to learn about the beautiful and unique diversity of Penang. Insects and butterflies are free in the large indoor conservatory. They also have an indoor education centre called Cocoon – the perfect place to learn about the wonderful and bizarre world of creepy crawlies. 

Entopia is open from 9am – 6pm every day of the week except Wednesdays (last admissions at 5pm). Opening hours may vary with public holidays (Malaysia has a lot of them so make sure you keep an eye on this!). The best time to visit Entopia Penang is on weekdays (not public holidays) when it will be much quieter. 

Entrance tickets to Entopia Penang cost RM69 (around £14 or $18) for adults (Adult tickets are for 13 – 59 year olds). Entrance tickets for children and senior citizens cost RM49 (around £10 or $13). Children’s tickets are required for 4-10 year olds. Senior citizens are 60 years and over.

You can book tickets online https://www.entopia.com/

Entopia Penang are currently offering discounted tickets at present. At the discounted rate: Entrance tickets to Entopia Penang cost RM55 (around £11 or $14) for adults. Entrance tickets for children and senior citizens cost RM39 (around £8 or $11). 

Top tip: Discounted tickets must be booked at the ticket office on arrival and they are NOT available for online bookings. 

After exploring Entopia, check out the Teluk Bahang Forest Eco Park (next to Entopia). This is a beautiful forest park with a kids playground and river. People use this river for bathing. The water is a little murky but is refreshingly cold. Some of the pools here are genuinely deep enough to swim. The location in a jungle valley makes this a stunning place for a refreshing dip. The Teluk Bahang Forest Eco Park is FREE to visit and is open all hours. They have some stalls selling food and drinks by the carpark. 

Finally, any good itinerary for Penang MUST include Batu Ferringhi. Visit the Batu Ferringhi night market. Batu Ferringhi is a village on the north coast of Penang and is one of the top spots of hotels and holiday makers in Penang. Batu Ferringhi is on the return bus journey route (between Teluk Bahang and George Town) and the journey from Teluk Bahang to Batu Ferringhi takes around 10 minutes by road. The night market runs along Batu Ferringhi Road (route 6) which is the main road through Batu Ferringhi. 

The night market runs every night of the week starting at around 6pm. Stalls sell fashion, art, gifts, some electrical goods, ornaments and food. If you are shopping in the night market we strongly recommend bartering – although it is worth being aware that some stalls will be unwilling to barter due to the hotel tourism in the area.

You can also find hawker food (such as long beach) but it is worth noting that this is aimed at tourists so the price is a little higher and the quality a little lower than other local food places. 

For an amazing Chinese local Hawker food experience try Viva which is located on route 6 in Tanjung Tokong on the way back to George Town. Or for amazing Malaysian Indian food try Sri Ananda Bawan in Tanjung Bungah, also located on route 6 on the way back to George Town.  

Day 4 of this itinerary for Penang is an active day of hiking from the botanical gardens. We recommend starting the hike early so you are not doing the challenging uphill sections in the hottest part of the day. This hike is likely to take 3-4 hours (depending on pace and stopping time). Bring good hiking shoes (trainers), plenty of water and snacks and loose fitting clothing. Some sections of the walk are exposed so consider sun protection.

If this itinerary for Penang is a bit too active just take a stroll in the Botanical Gardens and then head over to Gurney Plaza to enjoy the shops, restaurants and Air Conditioning!

Start by exploring the Botanical Gardens. These beautiful gardens are full of lush tropical foliage and wildlife. Many Macaque monkeys roam the botanical gardens. Keep your distance as they can be aggressive and don’t feed them or let them see any food. Keep your eye open for the more timid Dusky Leaf monkeys. These beautiful black monkeys are often seen playing higher in the jungle canopy. Keep your eye open for snakes on the trail and in the undergrowth. 

The trek to the Secret Rest Station:

Start from the moon gate on Jalan Kebun Bunga (this is a circular gate).  

• Go through the moon gate and follow the path leading up the hill. Follow the trail for around 1km up the steps (beware this is a long steep climb). When you get to the top of the steps don’t turn left down the hill – keep going straight on until you reach the rest station 5 (a further 200m)
• At the rest station (called Penang Hill Station 5) there are seats and shelter to rest. Locals often meet here to drink coffee and share snacks. 

• Once you have enjoyed the rest station, keep hiking along the trail. Although it is still up hill, it is not as steep.
• Follow the trail for around 2km and don’t turn off the main trail. There are some very beautiful views along this section. Towards the end of this section there are a few short downhill sections as you drop down towards the jeep track. 

• Once you reach the jeep track you can return to the botanical gardens by following the road back down the hill.

An alternative activity is to visit Gurney Plaza – this is a shopping mall with a range of clothing shops, fashion shops, restaurants and coffee shops. Gurney Plaza is not far from the Botanical Gardens. 

Day 5 National park trek to Turtle Beach

Day 5 for this itinerary for Penang involves a fun and challenging trek in the beautiful Penang National Park. There are two main beaches in the Penang National Park – Monkey Beach and Turtle Beach. The trail to Monkey Beach is in disrepair and is officially closed at present.

Today you will need a bag packed for a jungle adventure. Bring plenty of water and wear suitable clothes for a jungle adventure.

If you only have time to visit one beach we recommend the beautiful Turtle Beach.

The Penang National Park is a beautiful area of pristine coastal jungle located in the northwest corner of Penang island. We recommend being well equipped for an adventurous jungle trek. Wear good trekking shoes for some uneven and steep terrain. We recommend cool clothing, suncream and mosquito repellant. Consider bringing your swimming kit and a change of clothes. 

Bring plenty of water and food. There are no shops, cafes or restaurants in the national park itself and the village at the entrance to the national park (Teluk Bahang) only has a limited range of shops. 

Top tip: If you would like to visit turtle beach or monkey beach you can arrange boat trips from the Green Adventure Services tour agents office located at the national park entrance. 

Penang National Park entry permits

• There is an entrance fee of RM50 for non-Malaysians and RM10 for Malaysians.
• For children 3 – 12 years old it costs RM15 for mon-Malaysians and RM5 for Malaysians.
• Both Malaysian and Non-Malaysian Infants under 3 years old and Senior Citizens (60 years and older) are FREE.
• Student discounts available – bring a student card

A boat to monkey beach costs RM 100 (two ways). A boat to turtle beach costs RM 200 (two ways). Up to 10 people can share boats. These prices are pretty fixed, but it’s always worth trying to barter.

The National Park office is open for registration in the morning and for a few hours in the afternoon:

• Saturday – Thursday 8am – 1pm and 2pm – 4.30pm
• Fridays 8am – 12.15pm and 2.45pm – 4.30pm

TOP TIP: If you wish to take a boat to Turtle Beach and want to share the cost – ask other travellers when you arrive at the National Park to see if they would like to share a boat with you. Drivers will not organise groups – but there is nothing to stop you grouping with other travellers. You could also negotiate a price to stop at Monkey Beach on the way to Turtle Beach.  

How do you trek to Turtle beach?

Don’t miss our FULL guide on Turtle Beach Penang AND our FULL guide on Monkey Beach Penang

The trek from the Penang National Park office (in Teluk Bahang) to Turtle Beach (Pantai Kerachut) is around 3km and will take 1-2 hours depending on your pace and stops. The terrain is rough in sections (tree roots, logs and rocks on the trail) and there are also some steep sections. The hot, humid tropical Malaysian climate makes this trek reasonably challenging. 

The trekking route from the National Park office to Turtle Beach is well signed and easy to follow and can be done without a local guide: 

• Walk for 5 minutes along the well paved path (the sea is to your right)
• Cross the bridge and turn left immediately after the bridge
• Follow the path up into the jungle- it quickly becomes steep steps up a hill

• Keep following this path up the hill (don’t turn off to the right)
• The path then goes down hill, you will notice a left turn – don’t turn left
• Keep following the path to the bridge at the entrance to Turtle beach (Pantai Kerachut)
• You will see a meromictic lake to the left.

Turtle beach affords a beautiful west view of the Malacca Strait, ideal for sunsets over the ocean on a clear day. It is free to camp at turtle beach but the facilities are very basic so we recommend coming prepared.

The Turtle Sanctuary is open daily from 10am – 4.30pm and it is FREE to enter. The turtle sanctuary at Turtle Beach Penang protect turtle nesting, egg maturation and hatching. They protect baby turtles and release them safely back in to the ocean. You can see turtles at this sanctuary throughout the year (nesting and hatching season varies from year to year).

OH YEAH, and you may be interested in our guide to THE BEST beaches in Penang

What wildlife can you see in the Penang national park?

Penang national park has an excellent array of flora, fauna and wildlife. It is very common to see Macaque monkeys along the path that leads from the national park office into the national park. Keep your eye open for the more shy Dusky Leaf monkeys in the canopy along the coastal path that leads to monkey beach.

Tortoises can occasionally be seen along the jungle paths, especially the path between the national park entrance and turtle beach. 

If you are lucky you may also see the giant Asian Water Monitor lizards sunbathing on the rocks along the coast line (especially on the path that leads from the national park main entrance and then the path that leads towards monkey beach).

Depending on the season, you can also see turtles on turtle beach. You can see Green turtles (April – August) and Olive Ridley turtles (September – February).

How do you get to the Penang National Park by bus? 

Take Rapid bus number 101 from Georgetown to Teluk Bahang. In George Town, the Rapid 101 bus runs along Jalan Chulia past Kapitans. If you are taking the Rapid 101 bus on Jalan Chulia, buses to Teluk Bahang will be travelling in the direction away from the jetty. The journey from George Town to Teluk Bahang is around 20km and will take around 45 minutes. You can also do the journey by taxi. It is likely to cost RM30 – RM50 to travel from Georgetown to the Penang National park by Grab taxi and the journey will take around 40 minutes. 

This day of the itinerary for Penang involves a lot of travel. It is possible to do this by bus or taxi. If you have a rented car or bike this will be most convenient. 

Start with a visit to the Morning Fresh Market in Tanjung Bungah. This market is open daily from around 6am – 11am. We recommend visiting early (around 7am – 8am). The market sells fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and meat. Next to the market is a food center selling local breakfast dishes. This is a great place to experience the lovely morning atmosphere here. 

The Tropical Spice Gardens is a beautiful garden complex of trees, shrubs and tropical plants set amongst around 2km of winding pathways and waterways. A visit to the Tropical Spice Gardens is a truly multi sensory experience. The Spice Gardens are home to over 500 species of flora and fauna. They also offer a camping experience if you want to experience the jungle take on a new life by night.

Don’t miss the lovely beach across the road from the Tropical Spice Gardens.

For entrance to the gardens (no tour) adults tickets cost RM 25, children’s tickets cost RM 15 (4-12 years old) and family tickets cost RM 60 (2 adults and 2 children).

The Tropical Spice Gardens are open every day of the week (Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm and 

Friday-Sunday 9am-6pm) last admission one hour before closing. 

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the Tropical Spice Gardens

Finally visit the Tropical Fruit Farm. The tropical fruit farm is the perfect way to learn about some of the tropical fruits that are grown in Penang. We particularly enjoyed the scenery and the chance to try some of the fruits. The tropical fruit farm is located on the remote jungle road that connects Teluk Bahang and Balik Pulau. Tours are offered in English and run from 9am – 4.30pm (approximately 1 hour in length). You do not need to pre-book tours in advance. 

Guided farm tour (no fruit platter)

Tours cost RM 30 for an adult and RM 20 for children (5-12 years old). Children below 5 years old are FREE. 

Guided tour (including fruit platter)

If you wish to try the fruit platter and fruit juice at the end of the tour: Adults RM50 and children (5-12 years old) RM40 and under 5 years FREE. 

How do you get to the Tropical Fruit farm by public transport?

Take Rapid bus number 101 from Georgetown to Teluk Bahang. In George Town, the Rapid 101 bus runs along Jalan Chulia past Kapitans. If you are taking the Rapid 101 bus on Jalan Chulia, buses to Teluk Bahang will be travelling in the direction away from the jetty. The journey from George Town to Teluk Bahang is around 20km and will take around 45 minutes. In Teluk Bahang change bus to the 501, which runs from Teluk Bahang to Balik Pulau. The bus journey from Teluk Bahang to the tropical fruit farm will take roughly 30 minutes. To avoid getting stranded check with the driver about return bus times because this road is relatively quiet and remote.

The final day of this itinerary for Penang finishes with a high at ESCAPE. Pack swimming stuff, sun protection and clothes suitable for being active in the heat (remember trainers). Bring a water bottle (you can refill in the park for free). You can also bring your own food or use the A&Ws food outlets on the park (they sell fast food like fried chicken and waffles). 

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the ESCAPE adventure park Penang

The Escape Theme Park and Waterpark is a MUST DO on our itinerary for Penang. 

This is an incredible theme park with a wide range of swings, ropes courses, jump platforms and much more. Escape has activities for the whole family; their vision is to help people reconnect with their childlike adventurous and physical ambitions to play, swing and jump. They also have an incredible water park with pools, slides and water challenges. 

They also boast the World’s Longest Waterslide (1.1km in length) and taking around 4 minutes to travel at an average speed of around 10 mph AND The world’s longest Zip Coaster (1.1km in length). This is similar to a zipline except it is on a ridgid rail which winds through the beautiful jungle. 

There is SO MUCH to do at ESCAPE Penang – be prepared for a VERY fun and very tiring day! The park is very physical so wear clothing suitable for being active in the heat and remember sun protection. 

Situated in the jungle near Teluk Bahang, Escape also enables you to connect with the beautiful Penang nature, appreciating the jungle from a different angle. ESCAPE offer a camping experience called BASECAMP. This includes two days access to the park.  

Escape Penang is open from Tuesdays – Sundays 10am – 6pm (closed on mondays). You can purchase tickets online. 

The exact ESCAPE ticket prices depend on how and when you book:

The cheapest way to buy tickets for ESCAPE Penang is the book in advance online directly from their website. Ideally aim to book tickets at least 2 months in advance for the cheapest prices. Ticket price gradually increases if you book within two months of your intended visit date.

The tickets for the ESCAPE theme park in Penang are surprisingly good value for money relative to other theme parks in Malaysia. Especially when you consider how much you can do at ESCAPE Penang.

It is not possible to buy separate tickets for the water park or the adventure park. You need to buy a full access ticket which includes access to both parks.

Tickets for the ESCAPE theme park in Penang include full access to the whole park. You do not need to pay any additional fees for any of the activities, rides or experiences in the park. You can repeat any activity as many times as you like.

We recommend that you familiarise yourself with their swimming and adventure activities clothing policy to make sure that you have the appropriate attire for the day. For more information and to purchase tickets see their website: https://www.escape.my/

How do you get to Escape from George Town?

The ESCAPE adventure park has a large FREE car park on site. 

The Escape Theme park is located on Jalan Teluk Bahang next to Entopia Butterfly Farm. To get to Escape take the Rapid bus number 101 from Georgetown to Teluk Bahang. In George Town, the Rapid 101 bus goes from the Chew Jetty, along Jalan Chulia past Kapitans restaurant. If you are taking the Rapid 101 bus on Jalan Chulia, buses to Teluk Bahang will be travelling in the direction away from the jetty. For a small saving, Escape will also refund the price of bus tickets if you present them at the ticket counter.

The journey from George Town to Teluk Bahang is around 20km and will take around 45 minutes. You can also do the journey by taxi. It will cost around RM30 – RM50 to travel from Georgetown to the Penang National park by taxi and the journey will take around 30 minutes. Remember to agree on a price or the use of the taxi meter before the journey. 

And this marks the end to our ONE WEEK itinerary for Penang. BUT… don’t go away yet there is still more to share.

Other things to see and do around Penang

Penang really does have so much to offer! If you are staying in Penang for longer OR you want to switch out some activities in the Itinerary for Penang here is some more inspiration.

1 Visit Balik Pulau

Balik Pulau is a small town located on the remote western side of Penang island. Balik Pilau is Malaysian for “back of the island”. A visit to Balik Pulau is the perfect way to experience authentic local Malaysian village life. The town centre of Balik Pulau has old buildings and some fantastic local cafes and hawker stalls. It is also possible to start hikes up Penang hill from Balik 

Pulau. Balik Pulau is also famous for Laksa which is a traditional Nyonya dish. Laksa is an intense spicy, sour noodle soup containing tamarind, galangal, fish stock and garnished with mint, pineapple and torch ginger. We have not included Balik Pulau in our itinerary for Penang because it is quite out of the way if you only have one week in Penang. 

How do you get to Balik Pulau from George Town by bus? 

You can get to Balik Pulau from George Town by local bus. Take the 502 bus that starts at the Jetty, runs along Lebuh Light, along Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah and then along Jalan Penang (Penang road). The bus journey from the jetty to Balik Pulau will take around an hour or more depending on traffic. 

2 Explore the Penang hill temples

Our itinerary for Penang does include some temples – but there’s always more! 

The hilly jungle in the middle of Penang island is home to small beautiful temples that are harder to access than the temples in George Town and Air Itam. Most of these temples are best accessed by trekking and in some cases require intrepid and challenging uphill climbs.

Cheng Kon Sze Temple (清觀寺)  

Cheng Kon Sze Temple is also known as Cheng Ji Chan temple by locals. This is a very beautiful temple nestled in the hilly jungle of Penang. It is an ornate and colourful taoist temple with shrines, Chinese lanterns and art work. There are two ways to access Cheng Kon Sze Temple from Air Itam: Drive up Jalan Balik Pulau past Kek Lok Si temple. Turn left at the moon gate and drive up Jalan Penara, behind Kek Lok Si Temple. Follow this road up to the temple.  Alternatively, there is also a hiking route through the Chinese cemetery on Jalan Paya Terubong (Air Itam) and private durian orchards. Follow the granite stairs that lead to the temple. This trek will take around an hour and a half. 

Ngor Hean temple (五顯大帝)

Ngor Hean temple is a beautiful Chinese temple with an amazing west facing view over Balik Pulau and out to the ocean (the Straits of Malacca). Ngor Hean temple has a traditional style with Chinese lanterns, art work and shrines. There is also a viewing platform where you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful view.

Start from Air Itam dam. Follow Lorong Jog road around the north side of the dam. Look for a left fork up the hill. Follow the road up the hill for around 2.5km (pass Tua Pek Kong Temple). Turn right and follow the road up hill (there are some nice views up here). There are a couple of turn offs to ignore (a left and right turn), just keep following the road a further 1.5km to Ngor Hean temple. 

Tua Pek Kong temple (宝屿仙庙 大伯公)

This is a scenic Taoist temple located near the Penang Hill lower station of the mountain railway. This temple can be accessed on the trek up Penang hill from Air Itam. The location on the hillside affords a stunning panorama of the Air Itam district and the surrounding hills including a Kek Lok Si Temple, and the impressive Temple of Supreme Bliss (the Guan Yin statue). To get to the Tua Pek Kong temple go to the end of Jalan Lintang in Air Itam and trek up the trail that leads up Penang hill. Walk for around 500m and then turn left. Trek a further 200m up to the Tua Pek Kong temple.

Sītavana Vihāra Buddhist Monastery ( 悉达林)

Sitavana Vihara is a Theravāda Buddhist monastery is located on the south-eastern slope of Penang hill, around 2km from Kek Lok Si temple. This secluded monastery is surrounded by forest and terrace fields. Sitavana means “cool grove” – an appropriate name due to the cooler temperatures at the hilly location of the monastery.

There is also a temple called Snake Temple located in Bayan Lepas, south of George Town and near the airport. We have not recommended this in the main itinerary due to the location and also because we cannot vouch for the ethical treatment of snakes at the temple.

3 Dine in style at the Eastern and Oriental hotel

The Eastern and Oriental hotel in Penang is a beautiful colonial 5 star hotel located in the heart of historical George Town and overlooking the ocean. They have a wonderful range of dining options for guests and non-guests alike.

They often have special offers and run seasonal events celebrating Asian and Western foods.  Don’t miss their amazing buffet dinners – eat all you can fine dining.

We have not included this on our main itinerary for Penang due to the price – but if you love fine dining this is the choice for you.

4 Shopping spree at Gurney Plaza

If you need a break from our itinerary for Penang – then Gurney Plaza may be the perfect stop for you. Gurney plaza is located on Gurney Drive in the northern suburbs of George Town. It is a multi-level shopping mall with a range of department stores and small shops selling clothes, homeware, sports equipment, electrical items and gifts. There are also restaurants and a cinema complex showing movies in English. To get to Gurney Plaza from Georgetown by bus: Take 101 bus that runs along Jalan Chulia in the direction of Teluk Bahang. The bus journey from George town to Gurney Plaza should take around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Get off at the Gurney Plaza bus stop on Jalan Kelawai and cross the road, the entrance is very close to the bus stop. 

5 Visit the TOP at Komtar

The TOP at Komtar has a range of activities and exhibitions suitable for families. There is a dinosaur exhibit and a rainbow walkway – a terrifying glass bridge. There’s a lot of fun here – but we haven’t included this in our itinerary for Penang as we wanted to focus on the natural beauty and biodiversity in Penang. But if you want some quirky local fun this may be worth a stop. 

6 Relax on Batu Ferringhi Beach

Our itinerary for Penang is pretty active. But Penang also has its share of chill to offer. Batu Ferringhi is the hotel capital of Penang. Batu Ferringhi seafront is lined with hotels, restaurants and even a few bars. Batu Ferringhi is also home to a street night market (open seven days a week from 6pm until late). Due to the hotel tourism prices are a little higher in Batu Ferringhi compared to the rest of Penang. We recommend enjoying an evening in Batu Ferringhi.

You will see a beautiful sunset over the northwest corner of Penang island. Some of the restaurants along the seafront offer seating on the beach where you can enjoy food, drinks and shisha. A perfect place to relax and enjoy the tropical ambiance. During the day you can also do various water sports on Batu Ferringhi Beach such as jet skiing and parasailing. 

7 Stay at a durian farm

If you want to add something very memorable to your one week itinerary for Penang – Add some Durian!

Penang is famous in Asia for its durian. Durians are large spiky pungent fruits – often referred to as king of the fruits. They are definitely an acquired taste! Most people find the rich, creamy yellow flesh of the durian disgusting when they first try it. However over time it is easy to develop a strong affinity for this bizarre fruit. And Malaysians take great pride in their durian harvest. 

Throughout the durian season (May – July) you will see people selling durians at the street side. It normally costs around RM 25 for a small durian but you can pay a lot more for large durians, especially if they are a more rare and exquisite variety. You can also visit durian farms in Penang and see the durian trees growing this regal fruit. For a great durian farm that even offers accommodation check out the Bao Sheng Durian Farm (宝盛园/宝盛园民宿). During durian season Bao Sheng offer a durian buffet for RM 120 per person. We haven’t included this in our itinerary for Penang as it is quite niche and also seasonal. 

8 Relax and unwind at a tropical Spa

With such a physical and active itinerary for Penang – you may need to take time to rest, recover and pamper yourself.

The great news is – Penang has many spas and wellness centres to help you relax and unwind.

Check out the Rock Spa at the Hard Rock hotel. They welcome Guests and Non-guests to experience a range of creative, innovative and decadent treatments. They also occasionally have spa deals (such as paying a little more to get a FREE meal at the Hard Rock cafe)

Also check out the Danai Wellness centre in Tanjung Bungah. Treatments range from around RM 100 – RM 400.

9 Trek to a remote beach or an abandoned lighthouse

On this itinerary for Penang we have recommended a trek to Turtle Beach and Monkey Beach in the National Park. However, Penang is home to some more remote beaches which are often completely empty or very quiet. If you would like to get to a quieter beach check out Kampi Beach – south of Turtle beach in the Penang National Park. This is a beautiful clean beach just under 1km in length. You can trek to Kampi beach from the National Park office, the trek is around 5km. Due to the more remote location of Kampi beach it is often very quiet.  There is also an abandoned light house (called Muka Head light house) located on a hill above Monkey beach. It is possible to trek up to this from Monkey Beach.

10 Take a trip to an uninhabited island 

This is EPIC but expensive and time consuming so we haven’t included this in our main itinerary for Penang. 

You can really do this from Penang! If visiting an uninhabited jungle island is on your bucket list then there are a few in close proximity to Penang. It is not possible to do public “island hopping tours” in Penang. However, you can rent private boats and arrange private tours to small islands around Penang. The advantage of a private tour is that you are likely to get the island to yourself (or at least without the crowds). The disadvantage of private tours is the high price tag. If you are on a budget you could share the cost across your group and even group up with other travellers. 

Top Tip: If you would like to do cheaper island hopping tours in Malaysia we recommend Langkawi (you can find tours for around RM 80 per person) and the Perhentians (where you can find snorkelling trips for RM 50 per person). Find out which location is best for you – Penang or Langkawi

Here are a couple of small island private boat trips you can arrange in Penang. These could be arranged as day trips or overnight stays if you have a camping equipment:

Pulau Kendi (Kendi island):  

Pulau Kendi is a rocky jungle covered islet around 5km south of Penang. Kendi island is around 1.3km in length and only 400m at its widest point. There are no beaches in Pulau Kendi so the only way on and off the island is scrambling on rocks. If you want to do some jungle trekking it is possible to explore the island but be aware there are no paths or trails on the island. Pulau Kendi is a popular spot for fishing and a great place to see the sunset over the Straits of Malacca. Expect to pay around RM 650 for a private boat trip to Pulau Kendi from Penang. 

Pulau Song Song (Song Song island also known as Pulau Telur):

Pulau Song Song is a small uninhabited jungle island with a single hill peak, located around 35km north of Penang. Song Song island is very small at 500m length by 500m width and it has one sandy beach on the east coast of the island. Pulau Song is a great spot for snorkelling: The island is surrounded by beautiful coral, clear water and marine life. It takes around 45minutes – 1 hour to travel from Penang to Pulau Song Song by boat (one way). You can also trek through the jungle to the peak, be aware there are no trails and sections of the climb are very steep.

If you would like to arrange a private boat trip in Penang we recommend Isnoor Boat Tour company. They offer a range of private tours to beaches (such as monkey beach and turtle beach in the National Park), small islands near Penang (such as Kendi and Song Song) and fishing trips. They can also include BBQ lunches.

Isnoor Boat Tour company, Lorong Seri Tanjung Pinang, 11200 Tanjung Tokong, Penang, Malaysia

https://isnoor-boat-tourworkboats.business.site/

[email protected] +60 16442 1855

Here are some places to explore beyond Penang:

What can you do after this itinerary for Penang? Malaysia has loads of other amazing things to see and do. If you have more time here are some other things you can do near Penang: 

Explore the Cameron highlands

After your itinerary for Penang why not check out the Cameron Highlands? Warning – this is a VERY popular and busy spot during the Malaysian holidays. Avoid it at these times! 

The Cameron Highlands is a cool high altitude hilly region of Malaysia with tea plantations, strawberry farms and a beautiful mossy forest. Many Malaysians are attracted to the Cameron Highlands due to its cooler climate and beautiful trekking.

Due to the distance it would not be practical to visit the Cameron Highlands as a day trip from Penang. However you could visit and stay overnight before returning to Penang. Alternatively you could visit the Cameron Highlands on route to another destination such as Kuala Lumpur. 

If you visit the Cameron Highlands we recommend that you take a day tour of the mossy forest and other attractions in the Cameron Highlands. 

The mossy forest is a beautiful damp high altitude forest. Under these conditions the trees grow more slowly and are covered in thick moss and look like the jungle in the Avatar movie. Tours of the Mossy forest usually take 2-3 hours and the level is easy to intermediate. 

If you would like to visit Mossy Forest at your own pace, without a guide, you would need to arrange a taxi. It would be worth agreeing to a return price. Taxis may charge around RM25 per hour. The journey from Tanah Rata to the Mossy Forest is around 15km by road and takes around 30 minutes. 

You can also visit the Boh Tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands. The tea plantations are on the road between Tanah Rata and the Mossy Forest. At the tea plantations you can see where tea is grown and harvested, you can walk around a tea museum that explains the history of the tea plantation and shows you how tea is processed. And you can also buy tea and gifts from the tea plantation shop. We recommend around 2 hours to make the most of the tea plantation. Entry to the Boh Plantation, museum, shop and gardens is free. Opening hours 8.30am – 4.30pm, closed on mondays.  

How do you get to the Cameron Highlands from Penang by bus? 

The Cameron highlands are around 250km south of Penang and the journey takes 3-4 hours by bus. To take a bus from Penang to the Cameron Highlands you will need to go to the Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal and ask for a bus to Tanah Rata. Tickets cost RM 30 – RM 50 depending on the bus company and timings. 

Visit Langkawi island

Langkawi is a beautiful hilly island close to the Malay-Thai border. Langkawi has mangroves where you can take boat tours to watch the wildlife and a couple of beautiful waterfalls. It also has a cable car ride to the top of one of the highest peaks, a high ropes course, a beautiful beach and some small islands to visit nearby. You can get to Langkawi from Penang by ferry. For tickets and schedule visit:  https://www.langkawi-ferry.com/

How long do you need to see Langkawi?

If you are staying in Malaysia for longer we recommend a visit to Langkawi. You can see most of Langkawi’s main attractions in a long day. But to really make the most of the activities, sights and attractions in Langkawi we recommend at least 2-3 days. If you want a more chilled out holiday you could spend a week or more in Langkawi.  

How does Langkawi compare to Penang? 

Langkawi and Penang are both tropical islands with beautiful beaches, a hilly landscape and tropical jungle. Langkawi is a little less crowded, more spread out and has a smaller population than Penang. Penang has more culture including historic buildings, temples and street food. Langkawi also has a slightly more relaxed holiday feel compared to Penang and is slightly more expensive than Penang. Langkawi has slightly cleaner ocean water for swimming. Penang has a better public transport system with buses running around the island. Langkawi does not have a public transport system so you would need to travel by taxi or bike or car rental. 

Itinerary for Penang – Things to know before you go

What is the best time to visit penang.

The best time to enjoy this itinerary for Penang is during the dry season. Penang has a tropical climate and it is hot and humid in Penang all year round. We recommend visiting in the dry season between November and March. Be aware that temperatures increase towards the end of the dry season with February being the hottest month in Penang on average. April – October is Penang’s rainy season. If you are planning to visit other parts of Malaysia on your itinerary, consider the seasons in these other locations. For example November to February is the Monsoon season in the Perhentian islands and many of the facilities are closed during this season. 

You will find mixed information online about Penang’s seasons. This may be because the rainy and dry seasons are not that distinct in Penang with frequent rainfall in the dry season and many dry days in the rainy season.

What currency do they use in Penang?

The Malaysian currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (Symbol RM). You can find money exchange offices in George Town. There are many ATM machines around Penang which accept international bank cards (such as visa and maestro). International credit cards are often accepted too.  

Is English widely spoken in Penang?

English is widely spoken in Penang. Penang is a very diverse country with many languages. Bahasa Malaysian is the official language of Malaysia, however many people also speak Mandarin, Hokkien, Tamil, Hindi and more. English often acts as a “common language” spoken between different ethnic groups in Penang. Due to the diversity, many Malaysian people are multilingual and often mix languages in informal conversation. 

How do you get to and from Penang?

Can you fly to penang.

Penang is very easy to access. Penang has a small airport with both domestic and some short haul international flights. Air Asia is Malaysia budget airlines, and offer a cheap and convenient service from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. 

How do you get to Penang by bus? 

You can also get to Penang (Sungai Nibong terminal)  by bus from Kuala Lumpur (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan). Buses depart regularly through the day, the journey takes around 5 hours and costs in the region of RM 40. Buses are comfortable and Air Conditioned with spacious reclining seats.  

Can you get to Penang by train?

Trains are a cheap, comfortable and convenient way to travel around Malaysia. You can also get to Penang by train using the mainline which runs from Singapore, through Kuala Lumpur and up the length of the country. This trainline even runs up into Thailand. To get to Penang by train you need to get off at the Butterworth stop and transfer to Georgetown by bus, ferry or taxi. Ferries are a very convenient and affordable way to connect. The Butterworth KMT train station is right next to the ferry port that links Butterworth to the jetty in George Town on Penang island. 

What is the best way to get around in Penang? 

The best way to get around this itinerary for Penang depends on your personal requirements. If you have the budget for this the rent a car (expensive). If you are on a mid budget use Grab taxis and buses. If you are on a low budget for this itinerary for Penang then stick with local buses and minimize taxi use. 

Penang bus services

You can pretty much do the entire one week itinerary for Penang using the local bus system.

Penang is well connected by buses which run around the island providing cheap, affordable and convenient transport. Bus signs are in English and the drivers generally speak good English. The main service that you will use for this itinerary is the 101 bus which runs along the following route: George Town – Gurney – Tanjung Bungah – Batu Ferringhi – Teluk Bahang. Local bus tickets in Penang normally cost RM 1 – RM 6 depending on the distance of the journey. 

Penang taxis

The most convenient way to travel around this itinerary for Penang is to use taxis. The main way to get taxis in Penang is to use the Grab app. Download to your phone and you can request taxis. No need to enter card details – you can just pay with cash. This is a pretty quick and efficient way to get around and you generally get a good price. 

You can also get around Penang by taxis. Taxis are clearly marked (normally red) and can either be flagged from the side of the road or are often found waiting at popular destinations. Some drivers may wish to agree on a price before the journey, other drivers may use the taxi meter. 

• Short journeys around George Town (a few km): RM 5-10
• Medium journeys (5-10km):  RM 20 – RM 30
• Long journeys (around the island): RM 50 – RM 100

For longer journeys (e.g. to the tropical fruit farm) negotiate a deal that includes the price of the return trip.

What are the best places to eat in Penang?

It’s hard to go anywhere in Penang without spotting incredible local foods. We have tried to recommend some GREAT eating places in our itinerary for Penang. 

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE to the best places to eat in Penang

The cultural diversity of Penang brings a unique fusion of many types of amazing food. You don’t need to pay much to eat amazing local street food. Alternatively if you want to splash out Penang also has some amazing options for fine dining. 

Kapitan’s restaurant George Town

Kapitan’s serves a range of amazing Indian food. Don’t miss their incredible Tandoori sets, cooked in an authentic tandoor fire oven, the beautifully flavoured chicken is served with fresh Naan bread and sauces. Kapitan’s is very affordable, tasty and conveniently located on Jalan Chulia in the heart of Little India George Town. Kapitans is open every day and late into the night. 

Try Nasi Champur at Nasi Melayu Lidiana

Nasi Champur is Malay for “mixed rice” – expect a culinary explosion of flavors, smells and textures. We recommend trying Nasi Champur at Nasi Melayu Lidiana. This is a very local spot that you would miss unless you had been tipped off by a local or a very special travel blog (you’re welcome). For Nasi Champur you will be given rice as a standard and then you pick additional dishes: they normally include currys, veggies, eggs, chicken, fish. Expect to pay RM 5 – RM15 for an amazing plate of food. Someone will normally offer a drinks menu when you sit down – you order and pay them for drinks. Nasi Champur tends to be a lunch time food, so we recommend visiting around 12-1pm. To get to Nasi Melayu Lidiana, take a bus to the Floating mosque (101 bus on the way to Batu Ferringhi). Opposite the floating mosque, walk up the road that runs up the hill (Persiaran Tanjung Bungah road) after around 50 meters you will see a car park on your right and a building with a corrugated roof. Nasi Melayu Lidiana is in this building. 

Viva Local Food Haven

Vival Local Food Haven is a Chinese-Malaysian hawker centre located in Tanjung Bungah. This is open every day in the evenings. They serve an amazing range of foods such as: Satay, Fish, Oyster omelette, Char Koay Teow (fried noodles), clay pot chicken rice and much more. Most dishes are RM 5 – 10. The first thing to do is find a table and note your table number. Then go to the hawker stalls that interest you most and make an order giving your table number. Someone will probably come with a drinks menu. 

Sri Ananda Bahwan

For amazing curries and Indian food don’t miss Sri Ananda Bahwan in Tanjung Bungah. They serve an excellent range of very tasty curries and Indian set meals. Not only is the food amazing, the prices are very reasonable and there is a lovely ambiance here. To Get to Sri Ananda take the 101 bus and get off near Dalat School. Sri Ananda is opposite to Dalat school. Sri Ananda is open from lunch time and late into the evening. Remember to try Teh Taric (Malaysian Indian tea) with your food. 

Newlane Hawkers (recommended on day 1 of the itinerary for Penang)

Located on Lorong Baru street near Komtar tower in George Town, New lane Hawker is Penang street food at its best. As you wander along, the food advertises itself to you. You can find noodle dishes, rice dishes, belacan chicken, fried fish, soups and curries. The prices are very cheap; expect to pay around RM5 – RM10 on average for dishes. This place is worth visiting just for the experience, not to mention the incredible range of epic Malaysian street food. Newlane Hawkers are closed on Wednesdays. 

Eastern and Oriental 

For an unforgettable dining experience check out the Eastern and Oriental Hotel located in the heart of George Town. The Eastern an Oriental hotel has a beautiful colonial style and elegance. It is located right next to the ocean for epic sunset views. They offer a range of amazing fine dining experiences and local seasonal activities. 

Feringgi Grill 

If you want to enjoy fine dining in style check out the Feringgi Grill which is located at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort. It has a rich luxurious ambiance and the dress code is smart formal. They serve a range of decadent eurasian dishes. Prices start at around RM 35 for simple starter dishes up to RM 600 or more for some of their speciality main courses. 

Itinerary for Penang: What should you pack?

This itinerary for Penang is active and adventurous and involves a lot of sweating and exercise in a hot climate. We recommend light loose fit clothing. In addition to the general things that you would want to pack we also recommend the following: 

• Bring a day bag that you can pack up for day trips
• A waterproof dry sack can be a great way to keep your valuables dry if there is a tropical downpour and you are out and about. Also very handy if you plan to go sea kayaking. 
• Swimming stuff and a travel towel
• High factor sunscreen (SPF 30 or more)
• Bring an umbrella or sun hat – very useful for temple visits
• Don’t forget insect repellant (ideally containing DEET)
• Long trousers for the evenings
• One warmer top for air conditioned buses
• If you have sandals or flip flops also bring some trainers 

If you are travelling from the UK you do not need to bring a universal travel adaptor: In Malaysia they use plug type G. This is the same as the UK 3 pin plugs. However, a travel adaptor can be handy if you are transiting through different countries or plan to visit other countries on your trip. 

Looking for more inspiration?

Don’t miss our ultimate guide on THE BEST things to do in Malaysia

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Travel blog by an Indian travel blogger.

Penang Travel Guide: How To See Penang In 3 Days

Visiting Penang? Read this Penang travel guide and find out how to see it all in 3 days. From top tourist highlights to where to stay, this blog talks about it all. So let’s get started…

Penang Island is one of those rare places in the world that I would like to revisit any day. There are beaches, laid-back towns, delicious street food, all with a beautiful mix of Malay, Indian and Chinese culture, and speaking of the tourist attractions in numbers, don’t even ask. I stayed in Georgetown during my one week in Penang (out of which I wrote this 3 day Penang Travel Guide) that happens to be a very small town in Penang but has more places to see than there are in Kuala Lumpur put together.

Georgetown is one of many small towns in Penang. It is also a UNESCO heritage city. There are over 80 street art murals, over a dozen temples, a Clan Jetty area and everything else you can think of. And that’s just one area in Penang. So yea, one can stay in Penang for more than a month, and still not repeat the same spot they explored yesterday. But if you’ve only 3 days to uncover Penang, and want to make the most of your visit follow this Penang travel guide.

So let’s get started…

Penang Travel Guide

I expect you to be an urban backpacker with good taste in travel. But first thing first…

How To Travel From Kuala Lumpur To Penang

Where To Stay In Penang

If you only have about 3 days in Penang, I’ll suggest you make Georgetown your base. Though tucked to the side, Georgetown is the centre of attraction on the entire island. Other areas of interest like Monkey beach and Penang Hill can easily be visited on a full or half-day trip from Georgetown.

Another reason why I recommend Georgetown, is because everything is accessible at a stone’s throw there. From food to transport, and great experiences to a rich accommodation scene, Georgetown has enough of everything.

I stayed at a place called ‘Heritage sixteen’, a boutique hotel built on an ancient Chinese property and there couldn’t be a better place. Two steps on the right was a daily fresh market. The ferry & bus station was a  7-minute walk away. Evening street food stalls were right across the street. And if I wanted to get to go to any location in Penang, I could travel on a bus or ride a motorcycle and be anywhere in under 90 minutes.

Penang In 3 Days: Travel Itinerary

Day 1: georgetown.

Because we are staying in Georgetown and it is the highlight in Penang, we will start our Penang travel guide from Georgetown only. And speaking of the Day 1 itinerary, this is how it goes…

Street Art In Georgetown & Other Prominent Sites

Street art in Georgetown, Penang is one of the highlights and the very reason why I would call Georgetown a modern heritage town. The way how the city has infused new art forms into its decade-old architecture is definitely worth appreciating. Every 20 metres you can find beautiful graffiti art or a metal sculpture retelling the story of Penang in the form of its many local characters. To date, the town has 52 steel-rod sculptures and over 40 graffiti sites, out of which some were created by a popular international artist Ernest Zacharevic.

While most of the murals are located at Labuh Armenian and Gat Lebuh Armenia, a few popular ones may require you to go a little offbeat. But if you’re short on time, just stick only to Labuh Armenian and Gat Lebuh Armenia, and you will uncover most of the prominent street art designs that the town has to offer. Visit the local information centre, located at Lebuh Pantai to find a walking tour map, if you want to explore street art beyond the two streets.

Tip : If you’re staying in Georgetown, and are only covering a few popular streets, you can finish your hunt for Street Art in under half a day. Once done with street art, let’s start with other tourist places in Georgetown, as our Day1 part2 of the Penang travel guide.

Other Prominent Sites In Georgetown

Georgetown gained its title of World Heritage town back in 2008, and since then attracted an overwhelming flow of foreign tourists. There are more than 1,700 historic buildings within its core zone, aligned on four main streets namely Pengkalan Weld, Lebuh Pantai, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling and Harmony Street.

Some of the top attractions, I will recommend you will be, Kapitan Keling Mosque on Jalan Kapitan Keling, The Goddess of Mercy Temple (Kuan Yin Teng) on Harmony Street, the Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple with its back facing Harmony Street, St George’s Church on Harmony Street, and colonial buildings of the Penang Town Hall and the Penang City Hall located right in the waterfront area of Esplanade Padang. Please note that all the attractions mentioned above, moreover have free admission.

Tip : To find some intense backpacking action, and find the coolest cafes & guest houses, head to Love Lane.

Spend Your Evening Exploring Little India & Dining There

Though you can find Little India practically in every town in Malaysia, the one in Penang is a little intense and takes you some 7,000 kilometres away, and in another part of the continent. A colourful and vibrant mix of the Indian community, filled with multi-coloured shop houses selling fabrics, sarees, jewellery and even Tamil magazines, the Little India of Penang is congested and crisp and is made up of 3 main streets, which includes Lebuh Chulia, Lebuh Queen, and Jalan Pasar.

And if you are looking for some good Indian food, you’ve come to the right place. There are a number of places serving dishes including Briyani rice, Nasi Kandar, Tandoori, Roti Canai, you name it. You will also find numerous stalls selling Indian sweets and biri (a version of Indian cigarettes).

Day 2: GEORGETOWN & OUTSIDE

Starting with day 2 of our Penang travel guide itinerary, we start with the most unique thing in Georgetown: Clan Jetties!

Early Morning Visit To The Clan Jetties

The Clan Jetties in Georgetown , Penang, are unique Chinese settlements that have been around since the 19th century. Immigrants initially came here to find new job opportunities, with most of them ending up working as porters and fishermen. But with changing times and needs, most of them today are making money by catering to tourists. Out of the many clan jetties that initially resided back, six clan jetties remained, where you can visit and see stilt houses built along the jetties over the water. The homes were originally built over the water and in the seas, in order to avoid paying taxes, and the interesting thing is, all the families living in Clan Jetties are, even today, not required to pay any taxes. Each jetty is named after a specific Chinese clan, who settled in houses built along the jetties. The Chew Jetty is the most popular one to visit, but it is worth taking the time to see the other jetties as well.

Tip : Early morning is the best time to explore the area when locals are busy with their day to day work and tourists are rare to find.

Out of the many clan jetties that initially resided back, six clan jetties remained, where you can visit and see stilt houses built along the jetties over the water. The homes were originally built over the water and in the seas, in order to avoid paying taxes, and the interesting thing is, all the families living in Clan Jetties are, even today, not required to pay any taxes. Each jetty is named after a specific Chinese clan, who settled in houses built along the jetties. The Chew Jetty is the most popular one to visit, but it is worth taking the time to see the other jetties as well.

Half-Day Tour To Kek Lok Si  And Penang Hill

The next thing in our Penang travel guide is a half-day tour to Penang Hill.

Take bus number 203 from Komtar to Kek Lok Si, which is the biggest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia. The huge temple is stunning, peaceful, and impressive, with some great spot to take some photos. The bus takes nearly half an hour from Komtar to Kek Lok Si.

Not too far from Kek Lok Si (2.5 Km), is located the Penang Hill. You can either hike the 5.1 km or take bus number 204. But for those, short in time, perhaps hiking isn’t an option. It’s moreover rare to find people walking when you can cover the journey in a bus for 2Rm.

Standing at 833 meters high, Penang Hill is the oldest British hill station in Southeast Asia, dating back its foundation to the 1700s. The main highlight here is the funicular train ride that transports visitors to the Skyway, which has a stunning 360° view of the surrounding area. The train to go up the hill costs RM30/per person for foreigners, RM8/per person for Malaysians, and opens 6:30 – 9:00 pm daily.

Tip : Try to team up with another person for Penang Hill train ride if you’re travelling solo. One person should go get the tickets while the other person stands in the entry queue for the train. This will save you a lot of time.

Day 3: MONKEY BEACH

Located on the other side of Penang National park, the Monkey beach in Penang is a tourist highlight and one of the top beaches in Malaysia, where you’re allowed (and moreover expected) to swim in swimsuits and even camp in the night. Getting to the entrance of the Penang National Park, from Georgetown, is very easy. Just take bus number 101 (from Komtar bus station) to the end of the line and you’re there. In nearly 45 minutes you get to the starting point of Penang National Park, from where your trek to Monkey beach starts.

Now, there are 3 ways to get to Monkey Beach: One is by hiring a personal boat, which can cost around 100-150Rm for a return ticket. Option two is, you hike one way and return by boat (something that I ended up doing). And three, you hike both ways. Depending upon your fitness level, you can reach Monkey beach in 1.5 to 3 hours. So if you hike one way and return by boat, you still invest nearly 5 hours for monkey beach, plus 1.5 hours of bus journey from the town.

Admissions to the national park are free, you only pay for any boat services you opt for.

Be warned that hiking through the national park is going to be much more involved than you may initially anticipate. Before long you may be clambering over rocks, ducking under tree trunks, scrambling down steep ledges and circumnavigating a maze of branches and roots. In short, you will be walking through a dense forest, so dress appropriately. And then, there will be heat. So don’t forget to carry enough water and food with you. There is absolutely nothing to buy anything along the way. However, once you reach Monkey Beach you may find some shot, but with everyone charging at least 25% extra of the retail price.

Hike to Monkey beach is going to take a good share of your day. But if you still find some time and a bit of energy left in you, I’ll recommend exploring Gurney drive and perhaps even dining there, at Gurney Drive evening street food market.

Have you been to Penang? Do you have anything to add in this blog on Penang Travel Guide?

Hello blogger! Amazing post about Penang travel tips. Thanks a lot for this amazing and informative blog. Penang is a state located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is known as the “Pearl of the Orient” and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. To explore more, you can visit 2Passports 1Dream.

Really nice!!

Great post dev. I come to your webiste from Himalayan club that you follow on facebook but your webiste is really greate.

Useful info Dev. Thanks or sharing.

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Penang travel blog — the fullest penang guide for first-timers.

Discover the fascinating Penang with its natural beauty, architecture and street art Penang is dubbed as a jewel of the culture and tradition of Malaysia. This city is endowed with dazzling natural beauty along with unique architecture. Are you finding a Penang budget trip? Are you finding a Penang budget trip? So, is Penang worth visiting, how to visit Penang, what to do in Penang and how to plan a budget trip to Penang for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Penang travel blog (Penang blog) with the fullest Penang travel guide (guide to Penang, Penang tourist guide, Penang city guide, Penang guide) from how to get to Penang, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Penang to help you maximize your trip as follows!

• Penang trip blog — The super Penang travel guide for a Penang budget trip for the first-timers
• Exploring Penang – Things to do & what to see in The Pearl of the Orient of Malaysia
• Penang Malaysia things to do — 9 awesome things to do in Penang from cooking curries to zip-lining
• Penang travel tips — Some best tips for traveling and dining in Penang Island, Malaysia
• 4 reasons why you should visit Penang

The splendor of Penang has been for decades as a center of trade where traders brought green tea, spices, and fabrics from China to Penang. Now, in the light of the new age, Penang is as precious as a treasure hidden under the ancient beauty, scattered throughout the world. In this article, Living Nomads will list the things that make up the fame of this land and give practical travel guides to Penang. Explore the city of Penang is full of surprises, let’s check it out.

Best time to visit Penang

The climate in Penang is hot and humid throughout the year due to its full range of equatorial features. The rainy season usually starts from September to November and the dry season starts in December to March in the following year. Between May and November, the weather will be quite humid. With this climate, you can travel to Penang at any time of the year.

Penang travel guide: Penang travel cost

Transportation expenses

The Peninsula of Penang covers an area of 285 square kilometers, in which islands are connecting through a long bridge called Seberang Perai. Georgetown town is the main hub of commercial and administrative activities. To get here, you can take a plane from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. The price for a flight depends on the dates you choose ranging from 15 USD to 45 USD.

In addition, there is an interesting choice is to take the boat from Langkawi to Penang. Or you can take the train/ bus from Kuala Lumpur to Georgetown. Normally, the ticket of these vehicles is much cheaper than the plane ticket. However, it takes you 5-6 hours rather than just about an hour. It depends on your demand whether you want to save money or save more time.

After arriving Georgetown, you can get to the hotel from the airport by taxi or bus. Average transportation time between the two spots is about 90 minutes. As regards getting around in the city, you can rent a motorbike if traveling alone or rent a taxi if you are traveling with a big group. The average cost of getting around in the city will be about 22 usd depending on the distance and the number of people in your group.

Getting around Penang:  Bicycle : The price rent is about RM10/day (~$2.5). Cheap, always ready to exercise. It is highly recommended to travel by bicycle because of its convenient, easy to wring and healthy. Motorbike rental : With Vietnamese driver’s license, you can rent a motorbike at the rate of RM25 ($6.2) / day with minimum deposit of 100 RM.

Cost of eating

The cost of eating in Penang is somewhat cheaper than in Kuala Lumpur’s and the food is also more local.

Besides, the city still offers dishes that are familiar for travelers from all over the world. With about 30 usd, you can treat your stomach very well with decent meals.

Cost of staying

Choose the accommodation based on whether you love the quietness or excitement. There are two main areas to choose from Georgetown Old Town or the downtown area near Komtar (the tallest building in Penang). The cost for a night in Penang is roughly 22 usd for the budget hotel and can up to 130 usd for the deluxe room.

Penang travel blog: Where to stay?

Georgetown : Surely, because this is the central area where all services on the island are concentrated. Room rates here are also quite cheap but close to the night markets, super rich food. This area is about 40 minutes away from the airport. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Batu Ferringhi beach area: This is an area with many resorts as well as 5-star hotels, 45 minutes from George Town. Passing through the center that usually traffic jams is the section running around the beautiful mountain road, less people, go very well. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Also, you can refer to the The Frame Guesthouse hostel that I stayed in when visiting Penang, this is a hostel located on Lebuh Chulia street in the old town of George Town, designed in a backpacker style but very clean. The space in the hostel is quite airy, mainly European backpacker travelers, so stay very comfortable. Price around 35RM ($8.46)/bed in a dormitory room with 6 beds, breakfast included. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Below are some cheap and budget hotels in Penang with good ratings and reviews you can refer to

• Macalister Mansion (Address: 228, Jalan Macalister, George Town, 11400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia), with room rates from $111.61/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Coffee Atelier (Address: 47 – 55, Lorong Stewart, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia), with room rates from $85.87/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Museum Hotel (Address: No 72 Jalan A.S. Mansor, off Transfer Road, George Town, Penang Island), with room rates from $32.97/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Nam Keng Hotel (Address: 17, Lebuh Cintra, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia), with room rates from $51.52/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Spices Hotel (Address: 5, Lorong Lumut, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia), with room rates from $32.20/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find, check rates, reviews & availability for Penang hotel on Agoda.com or Booking.com  or Airbnb.com.

Penang travel blog: Some tips to saving cost for a Penang budget trip

Choose a hotel in georgetown.

This area offers many of the most popular motel options. In the low season, you can book single rooms with only 12 usd and fully furnished. If you go with the large group and love the sea, then Batu Ferringi is a place you can consider. Although the resort costs a lot, it is still affordable if you go with a big group as you can share the cost while enjoying a sense of luxury.

Bayview Hotel Georgetown

Address: 25-A Lebuh Farquhar, George, Penang, Malaysia

You can find, check rates, reviews & availability for Holland Guest House on Agoda.com .

Penang Homestay

Address: N Park 3C-7-7, Jalan Batu Uban, Penang, 11700 Gelugor, Malaysia

You can find, check rates, reviews & availability for Penang Homestay on Booking.com

Walking or renting a motorbike to explore Penang

Featuring small streets, you can walk to Penang’s famous mural or rent a motorbike to get around the place more easily.

Enjoy street food

Indulging in the lives of indigenous people has always been the top tip of Penang’s travel experiences. Start with familiarizing yourself with local dishes sold along the sidewalk.

These are the places where first-time gourmet visitors come to Penang. The prices for these dishes are quite cheap and the taste could be even better than the food in the restaurant.

Book a tour before departure

One of the self-sufficient travel experiences of Penang is booking in advance tickets for sightseeing and tours. The ticket will be cheaper than buying directly. In addition, pre-ordering will also help you to set an appropriate schedule. Especially, with the crowded sightseeing, pre-purchase tickets also save you time, not waiting so long in queues.

Penang travel blog (Penang blog): Penang experiences — Best places to visit in Penang and Penang island things to do

Penang hill.

Penang Hill attracts visitors from all over the world by its spectacular view, the cable car system makes it easy to reach the top without spending much time and effort. What is more, there are patches of tropical rainforest with diverse flora and fauna.

From this hill, you can behold clearly the mountain peaks of Langkawi and northern Kedah. Most people come here to recharge, go for a picnic and make field trips.

Besides, it is impossible not to mention the vertical train heading up Penang Hill. It is one of the oldest trains in Malaysia and also the most beautiful route to sightsee Malaysia’s landscape.

Batu Ferringhi

Located to the north of Georgetown, Batu Ferringhi Beach is not only endowed with the stunning natural landscape, it is also famous for nightlife activities, night markets, along with various forms of beach activities. Some particular activities are roller coasters, paragliding, banana boats, beach volleyball, ….

The wall painting of Penang

The journey to find all the painting is regarded as the journey to find a treasure scattered throughout the city.

It is often said that you will need a map to explore the all location of the Penang street art. As one of the unique features that name the ancient city, the paintings are painted by artists on the moss walls.

Continued reading…

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3D2N Penang Food Guide – Let the Locals Show You The Best!

3D2N Penang Food Tour

Penang is known to have some of the best street food in Asia. So, what should we eat in George Town? Who better to ask than the Penang Food Experts in Penang Culture Singapore . For this trip, we had the Penangites from Penang Culture bring us on a 3-day Penang food tour, and showed us how to eat like a local.

We have a mission here — to try as many bowls of good Penang lor mee as possible. Why, you may ask? Well, this is because the chefs from Penang Culture Singapore are going to create their own version of Penang Lor Mee in Singapore after this trip. It is really exciting because I am a lor mee lover!

Do you know the differences between Singapore lor mee and Penang lor mee?

A good bowl of Penang lor mee has two key components — braised meat ingredients, and a starchy gravy that’s flavoured with five-spice powder from Penang, and egg white. The flavourful and aromatic gravy is made from different spices. The taste of the gravy is very distinct, and can’t be mistaken for something else.

In this post, we are not just introducing bowls and bowls of lor mee. We also want to show you the exciting food scene in Penang. If you are craving for a bowl of lor mee after going through the article, but have no time to travel to Penang, head to Penang Culture Singapore for the same authentic experience!

Café Sin Yin Nam Address: Lorong Baru, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Sin Yin Nam cafe is what Malaysians call a coffee shop. Patrons can get assam laksa, chee cheong fun, lemongrass otah, wanton mee, chicken wings and more. I particularly liked the chee cheong fun which is doused in chilli sauce and prawn paste.

Hon Kei Food Corner 漢記小食店 Address: 45, Jalan Kampung Malabar, 10200 Penang

Hon Kei serves one of the best pork noodles in Penang. They used to operate by the road in front of Ho Ping Café, but they have moved to a bigger and more comfortable space. The pork noodles and porridge, which are made according to a 50-year-old recipe, are must-tries. The soup has a lovely sweetness, and it comes with generous amount of ingredients such as minced pork, brain, kidney, trip, intestine and heart. The curry noodles are thick and pack a spicy punch.

Kedai Kopi Ming Hooi Address: Gat Lebuh Macallum, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

If you have travelled to Penang, you’ll probably remember some of the street names. But for many locals, they only know the streets by their numbers. The Seven Streets Precinct in Penang is a triangular space bordering Magazine Road, Jalan CY Choy and Jalan Gurdwara. Kedai Kopi Ming Hooi is located in Macallum Street which is considered the 5th street (Gor Tiau Lor in Hokkien). The big space is home to many coffee shops so there’s a huge variety of street food. We tried a few of the more popular options — oyster omelette (from Kedai Kopi Hoe Hin), prawn noodles (from Kopi Ming Hooi) and lor mee (from Kedai Kopi Mei Heong).

Restoran Nasi Kandar Line Clear Address: Beside 161 & 177 Penang Road, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Nasi kandar is a mildly-flavoured steamed rice dish that comes with a variety of curry-based meat dishes and vegetables. Penang’s Line Clear Nasi Kandar is a popular nasi kandar restaurant in Penang. The long line is testament to the popularity of the restaurant. Located along a narrow alley, this 24-hour joint serves good and cheap nasi kandar. The chicken drumstick is my favourite item! They also have daily specials such as fish curry or beef curry. Remember to pile on a mixture of gravy for that extra kick.

Mount Erskine Market Address: Jalan Mount Erskine, 10470, Penang, Malaysia

On the second day, we arrived bright and early at Mount Erskine Market just for the famous Hokkien Mee (we call them prawn noodles in Singapore). The soup is fragrant, with enough prawn flavours to wow your taste buds. It comes with a few prawns. Add a spoonful of red chilli paste on top and give the noodles a good stir. The addition of shallots further augments the whole flavour of the dish.

Hai Beng Café Address: 3, Jalan Jones, George Town, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

This is not like any other Penang food tour; remember our quest to find the best lor mee in Penang? After breakfast, we headed straight to Ah Quee Street Loh Mee. Their original stall is located in Lean Thye Coffee Shop along Ah Quee Street. Today, they have another branch in Hai Beng coffeeshop in Jalan Jones. The gravy was thick and robust, but a little too salty for me. If you want something more flavourful, go for the special order which has pig intestines and duck meat.

Kedai Kopi Seng Thor Address: 160, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

The lor mee at Kedai Kopi Seng Thor is a clear winner. That unassuming sticky gravy has the perfect balance of savoury, sour, sweet and spicy flavours. It is topped with pork slices, hard boiled eggs and shallots. You can add as much garlic as you desire! While you’re here, you might also want to try the fried kway teow and lor bak. You may be surprised!

Tuai Pui curry mee Address: No, 23, Lebuh Kimberly, 10100 penang

Embark on a short walk from Seng Thor Lor Mee to Tuai Pui Curry Mee. The curry soup is made from several types of curry, giving it a little more complexity. It comes with a generous portion of tau pok, coagulated blood, blood cockles, cuttlefish, and more.

Projek Nasi Lemak Address: 498, Jalan Dato Keramat, George Town, 10150 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

To escape the heat, we head to Projek Nasi Lemak which is talk of the town in penang. The cheese-baked lobster is served with nasi lemak and dyed blue with butterfly pea flower. Their homemade sambal was spicy but very shiok!

Ah Leng Fried Kway Teow Address: Jalan Dato Keramat, Kampung Makam, 10150 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Shawn from Penang Culture brought us to his favourite char kway teow stall in Penang, and that is none other than Ah Leng Fried Kway Teow! This is definitely one of the better ones I have tried. We added mantis shrimps into our noodles and requested for duck egg as well. The prawns were fresh and the creaminess of the duck egg gave this plate of char kway teow a unique edge. It is a little wetter and sweeter in taste. I totally regretted not ordering a plate for myself! 😀

Padang Brown Seafood Popiah Address: between Jln. Anson & Jln. Perak, 10450 George Town, Penang

Seafood Popiah at Gerai Gerai Padang Brown is one of the oldest stalls in Penang. It probably is also one of the few stalls that have crab meat in its popiah. Unlike our local popiah, this rendition from Padang Brown is packed with crab meat and turnip, and is drenched with prawn stock. Highly recommended! Note that it only opens after 2pm.

古早味炸香蕉年糕 Address: 50, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

This roadside stall along Wely Quay is famous for kuih bakul (nian gao) and banana fritters. The father will first sandwich nian gao between slices of sweet potato & yam, before frying them till they’re golden brown. Eat it while it’s hot, so that the nian gao is warm and semi-molten.

Luo Ji Duck Meat Koay Teow Soup Address: Pulau Tikus @ Jalan Pasar

I have been to Pulau Tikus multiple times as there are many good hawker stalls here. I’ve saved the best for last – Luo Ji Duck Mee Koay Teow Soup. If you think it’s just any other bowl of clear soup, you are wrong. The Duck Meat Koay Teow Soup is light, yet substantial. You can really taste the original flavour of every ingredient. I was already stuffed, but the moment I tried this bowl of noodle soup, I ordered another bowl just for myself. This is such a satisfying meal that really hits the spot on a cold rainy day when you are craving something warm, fragrant and flavourful.

Pulau Tikus Market Address: Jalan Pasar

We went back to Pulau Tikus the very next morning because breakfast is totally different from dinner. One of the most popular dishes is the herbal duck soup noodle. The soup is boiled with herbs, and served with duck thigh and silken soft noodles (mee sua), wolfberries and a sprinkle of spring onions. This is the epitome of comfort food! We also had butter toast and char koay kark.

Cecil Street Market Address: 40-48, Lebuh Cecil, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Our last stop for this Penang food tour is Cecil Street Market. Cecil Street is called 7th street. Chef Ah Lipp’s wife brought me to a nameless roast meat stall just to buy roast meat. It was easily identifiable because they were the only ones with a queue. Join the queue to get some crispy sio bak and char siew! We also tried Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Thng, Mala Style Wanton Mee, Jawa Mee, and more. The mala wanton mee is quite popular. Think springy noodles dressed in mala sauce, soy sauce and sesame oil, and topped with pork lard.

With that, I conclude my 3D2N Penang food tour with Penang Culture Singapore . Three days is not enough, and there are still so many places that I want to visit. I guess it’s time to plan for another trip. Thank you Shawn, Chef Ah Lipp and the team from Penang Culture for showing us around. I look forward to trying #HALAL version of Lor Mee in Penang Culture soon!

Since you are here, why not check out the Lor Mee which Penang Culture came up with after the trip? If not, check out our guide to a handful of cafes in Penang!

10 Must-Try Hawker Food in Penang

JB Food Trail Part 2

The Ipoh Food Guide – Where to Eat the Best Street Food in Ipoh?

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