penang tourist guide

Penang Travel Guide: All You Need To Plan A Trip To Penang

About penang.

In this Penang travel guide, we’ll cover what you need to know about this famous state in Malaysia!

Penang  is at the northwest coast of  Peninsular Malaysia  and faces the  Malacca Strait .

The vibrant capital city,  George Town  on  Penang Island  ( Pulau Pinang ) is a  UNESCO World Heritage Zone  with a rich history as a trading hub.

Penang Island  is small with narrow streets. Unlike in Kuala Lumpur, the city does not have a monorail system to diffuse the rush hour traffic.

2 bridges connect  Seberang Perai  (referred to as the mainland) to  George Town . The newer  Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge  is the longest sea bridge in  Southeast Asia .

For a Malaysian city, Penang has an unusually high ratio of Chinese, in particular those of Hokkien descent!

Penang Useful Info

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…

Best Time To Visit Penang: When Not To Go & Special Events To Look Out For

The best time to visit Penang largely depends on what you’re after. Are you looking for a quieter vacation with fewer crowds, or when the island is at its liveliest?…

4 Best Ways For Getting Around Penang (All Transport Options)

Penang transport like the public buses can get you across the island reliably. And there’s even a free shuttle that goes around George Town! However, both the heritage zone, George…

Things To Do In Penang

Visit museums, night markets, cafes, Little India, Penang botanical gardens and more!

Many activities are family-friendly and close to each other in George Town!

25 Best Things To Do In Penang At Night – Nightlife & More

For things to do in Penang at night, you don’t have to go far! As most of the places are close to each other! By this, we mean George Town….

21 Fun Things To Do In Penang With Kids + Food & Hotels

Seeking out fun things to do in Penang with kids? As a top tourist destination in Malaysia, Penang has a lot up its sleeve to engage all members of the…

13 Things To Do In George Town Penang (Must-See Attractions)

An abundance of things to do in George Town Penang means you can easily spend a full day here! Most attractions are accessible on foot. Or by trishaw! And many…

11 Best Places To Get A Full Body Or Foot Massage In Penang

Penang has an array of massage centers specializing in foot massages, Thai massages, Javanese massages and more! With prices ranging from under RM100 to a few hundred! Of course, you’re…

27 Best Things To Do In Penang – What You Should Really Try

Searching for the best thing to do in Penang? Even if you have been here multiple times, there’s always something new to see and do! Whether your interests lie in…

Penang Popular Attractions

There are many remaining landmarks from former  British  rule,  Peranakan traders  and immigrants from  China  and  India .

Other highlights include  Penang Hill, Penang Street Art  and  Kek Lok Si Temple . And Penang has its own national park too!

Youth Park – Hidden City Park In Penang With Free Perks

We wish our city had such a cool park as this. Penang Municipal Park is not only free to enter, but huge. It goes by…

Fort Cornwallis – UNESCO Heritage Site In George Town, Penang

Next to the Esplanade Park, Fort Cornwallis happens to be both the largest and oldest fort in Malaysia. It is one of the primary reasons…

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion) – Relive The Glory Days

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion Penang is better known as The Blue Mansion. And it is an architectural wonder. Out of all the places to visit…

Entopia By Penang Butterfly Farm – Walk Among Hundreds Of Live Butterflies!

Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is perfect if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Penang! This 8-hectare butterfly park in Penang is…

Top 21 Penang Museum With Unique Concepts To Check Out

Do yourself a favor and make sure to include an interactive museum into your Penang trip! Most of these museums have a way of educating…

Penang Botanical Gardens – Visit The Green Lungs Of Penang!

Penang Botanic Gardens is a beautiful Penang attraction that is suitable for anyone who relishes being outdoors! The luscious garden is over a century old…

Clan Jetties Of Penang – See Floating Villages Like Chew Jetty

Even if you’re not a history buff, you should make it a point to visit at least one of the 7 existing clan jetties of…

Kek Lok Si Temple – Full Guide To Visit Penang’s Grandest Temple!

Kek Lok Si Temple’s undeniable grandeur and deep cultural roots makes it a must-see Penang attraction. The most striking features of Kek Lok Si are…

The Habitat Penang Hill (Full Guide) & Tips For Entrance Fees

The Habitat Penang Hill or Habitat Penang features a scenic canopy walk over an ancient rainforest which allows visitors to observe wildlife at a safe…

Famous Food In Penang

With a melting pot of contrasting cultures,  Penang food  stands out! And hence the state is often called the Food Capital of Malaysia!

Lunarbarcoffee – Hidden Café With Incredible Service

Lunarbarcoffee is far from tourist spots in Penang. It is close to a residential area and is popular with the working crowd nearby. So, is…

Hameediyah Restaurant At Campbell St – Nasi Kandar At Its Finest

Is Hameediyah Restaurant with its constant queue outside worth waiting for? The well-known nasi kandar restaurant is on Campbell Street in George Town which is…

Hot Bowl White Curry Mee – Michelin Star Eatery In George Town

As a recipient of the coveted Michelin Star, what can you expect from Hot Bowl White Curry Mee? Can it live up to the high…

11 Delectable Penang Dim Sum Restaurants – Bite-Sized Delights!

Looking for delicious dim sum restaurants while traveling in Penang? We know how trying it can be to find the best of the best when…

19 Best Cafes In Penang With Great Coffee (Including New Ones)

Out of these best cafés in Penang, we hope you find one that whets your appetite! Many of them operate until late at night, with…

Penang Durian Farms – List Of 10 Places To Eat Durian

Penang durian farms have been around for generations at this point. And many of them are pesticide-free. Fans of the King of Fruits will agree…

11 Local Seafood Restaurants To Try In Penang

There are seafood restaurants in Penang that have been around for generations! But despite being next to the sea on all sides, seafood in Penang…

21 Famous Penang Food To Try – What You Can’t Miss Out On

Famous dishes like laksa, kuay teow and cendol, have long put Penang on the world map. In fact, some of the best food in Penang is street food. If…

13 Best Breakfast In Penang – With Local, Western & Halal Options

Breakfast in Penang is a golden opportunity to try more of the local food. Don’t just stick to your hotel’s room service! But breakfast doesn’t have…

Shopping In Penang

11 Best Shopping Malls In Penang To Visit – Newest & Biggest!

Have an entire day to spare in George Town? You can fill it by visiting a few Penang shopping malls! Most of them are close by while some of them…

13 Best Penang Souvenirs – What To Buy In Penang? (Suggestions For 2024)

Bring back a souvenir or two from Penang to your friends and family back home. Penang has artsy crafts made with skill that has transcended generations. As well as a…

11 Best Night Market In Penang: Monday To Sunday (Especially #5)

There’s more than one Penang night market (or Penang pasar malam)! In fact, there is practically a different one every day of the week! You can try bargain hunting and negotiating…

Penang How-Tos

How To Get To Penang Island From Kuala Lumpur – A Simple Guide

Kuala Lumpur to Penang – what is the most convenient way to do it? Especially since everyone’s travel plan and budget is different. So taking that into consideration, we will…

How To Get From Penang Airport To Georgetown (4 Easy Ways)

Travel from Penang airport to George Town will be top priority for first timers flying into Penang! Don’t waste precious time scrambling around looking for transport upon arrival. A little research…

How To Get To Cameron Highlands From Penang (Step-by-Step Guide)

Whether you’re looking for the best way to get from Penang to Cameron Highlands or from Butterworth to Cameron Highlands: There’re pros and cons to each mode of transport –…

How To Get From Penang Georgetown To Butterworth

If you’re not sure how to get from Penang Georgetown to Butterworth, refer to this travel guide. Getting to Butterworth from Georgetown Penang is pretty straightforward. Let’s take a look…

How To Go To Ipoh From Penang – All Methods Covered! (Easy Guide)

Thinking about making a trip from Penang to Ipoh? Ipoh like Penang, is famous for food and British colonial architecture. But that’s where the similarities end! Ipoh’s gorgeous limestone hills…

The Best Ways To Travel From Langkawi To Penang (All Options)

Travel from Langkawi to Penang takes less time than you would expect! You can easily visit both places on the same trip! Penang’s Georgetown and Penang Hill are enough to…

Where To Stay In Penang

9 Best Budget Hotels In Penang 2023 – Cheap and Comfy Stays!

Looking for budget hotels in Penang to relax and unwind? Going on an island getaway (especially one that is on many tourists’ radar) need not cost you an arm and…

17 Best Hotels In Penang For An Unforgettable Stay

The best hotels in Penang include high-rise buildings with city views or chic Peranakan boutique hotels in the city center. And some of these places to stay have been around since…

Top 11 New Hotels In Penang (2023): Brand New & Modern Luxury

You might find a favorite among the new hotels in Penang 2023! True, it’s been a bad year for hotels but many have reopened for business as tourists return to…

7 Best Hotels In Butterworth – Where To Stay On The Mainland Of Penang!

There are lots to do at Butterworth Penang so it’s worth taking a look at the best hotels in Butterworth! Plus, it can be cheaper (and less hectic) than staying…

7 Hotels With Private Pool In Penang 2023 – Top Choices!

No holiday in Penang is complete without hitting the beach, but staying at hotels with a private pool in Penang is unlike anything else. Couples can bask along the poolside…

5 Star Hotel In Penang: Top 13 Luxury Resorts You Won’t Regret Staying At!

5-star hotels in Penang are abundant! It is not surprising either since Penang is a tourist magnet for its delicious food and vibrant culture. For international visitors, luxury hotels in…

Latest Penang Blog Posts

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…

The best time to visit Penang largely depends on what you’re after. Are you looking for a quieter vacation with fewer crowds, or when the…

Pete Seaward

If there's a more thrilling cocktail of Asian cultures than in Penang, we've yet to find it. Penang has long served as the link between Asia’s great kingdoms and an important outlet to the markets of Europe and Western Asia. At its heart is diverse, cosmopolitan George Town, Penang Island's main city and an urban centre that delivers old-world Asia in spades, from trishaws pedalling past watermarked Chinese shophouses to blue joss smoke perfuming the air. The freshest aspects of modern culture are present, too, in the exceptional art scene and free-spirited carnivals, all fed by an infectious local enthusiasm for Penang's long history and kaleidoscope of cultures.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Blue Mansion

George Town

The most photographed building in George Town, this magnificent 38-room, 220-window mansion was built in the 1880s and rescued from ruin in the 1990s…

Penang National Park

At 23 sq km, this is Malaysia's smallest national park, but it's beach-fringed forests are home to silvered leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, leopard cats and…

Tropical Spice Garden

Facing a beautiful white-sand beach on the 101 bus route, this beautifully landscaped oasis preserves 500 species of tropical flora, spread across 200…

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Lovingly restored, this ostentatious, mint-green structure was one of the most stunning private residences in George Town. Every door, wall and archway is…

Kek Lok Si Temple

Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple is a colourful explosion of statues, pagodas and pavilions, cascading down a hillside in Air Itam, around 8km from the…

Khoo Kongsi

The most spectacular clanhouse in George Town, Khoo Kongsi is an explosion of colour. Intricate ceramic mosaics of immortals, carp and dragons dance…

Kuan Yin Teng

Dedicated to Kuan Yin, goddess of mercy, this temple is the liveliest place of worship in George Town. The current temple was built in the early 19th…

The Habitat

Bordering one of Penang's two virgin rainforest reserves, the spine of this fantastic addition to the Penang Hill experience is a finely crafted 1.6km…

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Penang and beyond

Visitors Guide to Penang: Everything You Need to Know

If you are planning your Malaysia travel itinerary, Penang island with its capital city George Town must be high on your list. Penang, famous for street art, temples, jetties, beaches, and pre-war mansions is really too beautiful to be missed out. Read our visitors guide on the best things to do in Penang, tips on what to see, where to eat and where to stay, what to pack and when is the best time to visit the destination. You can read everything you need to know before visiting George Town in Penang in this travel blog.

Pulau Penang was one of our favorite places we visited in Malaysia, and we even liked its capital George Town, although it is the second-largest city in the country. Simply put, George Town is a true gem.

Yes, it is crowded, noisy and the air is often polluted, but on the other hand, the historic center is absolutely splendid (the city is not UNESCO-listed for nothing).

The architecture, old mansions, and temples are very photogenic, you can uncover the complicated history of the island when walking around jetties with old traditional wooden houses, and from time to time you can find the world-famous street art in the alleys where new and modern blends with the old times.

And have we mentioned the cuisine? It is true that before visiting Penang, we had traveled to Melaka, which is considered to be the foodies' heaven, but trust us when we say that George Town is not even one percent worse, and it is rightfully a destination where people travel to eat their way around.

Penang has a rich history (the island was a British colony for several centuries) and culture as descendants of Malay, Indian and Chinese people live here, and you can see the blend of cultures everywhere around.

And even if visiting colonial places, temples or heritage houses is not your thing, you will definitely appreciate the mix of those three nations when tasting different meals on a local night markets.

Simply put, we really loved our time in Penang island, and those four days we had allocated for this destination were for sure not enough - we could have stayed even longer hadn't we traveled on a strict itinerary.

We hope this post will inspire you to visit Penang, the capital George Town and some of the temples and beaches in the near surroundings.

BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN PENANG ISLAND

Do you want to hear the good news?

Most of the highlights Penang island has to offer are easily accessible, and even if you are not an explorer by heart, there are several top attractions and best things to do in the central part of George Town, that you won't have to travel far to get your camera memory card full.

Here's a list of the places we saw and things we did in Penang island we enjoyed the most.

PENANG HILL

Are you looking for a spot from where you can get the best views? Then you must head to Penang Hill, towering 800 meters above George Town.

There are several ways how to reach the top. The most common ways are to get to Penang Hill by taxi or by bus (204).

The most sweaty way is to walk (the hill is pretty steep, and you can either walk along the road or through the jungle which is longer and not that well-signposted), and the coolest way it to reach the top by train for 30 RM.

You can visit Penang Hill any time of the day, but the best time is around sunset when you can watch the sky turning red, and the city under you lightened up.

CHULIA STREET NIGHT MARKET

Chulia Street is known for the evening hawker market, where you can taste more traditional food.

It is probably not possible that you've never seen George Town's street art. It has been all over Instagram lately, and for many travelers, it is even the main reason why to travel to this part of Malaysia.

The tradition of street art in Penang island does not go that far into history (it began in 2012), but the murals painted on old and run-down buildings became quickly overly popular, and we must say they are really captivating, especially when the paintings are combined with three-dimensional objects.

The street art is scattered all around the old town, and there is not only one specific street where you can find it all.

You have several options here on how to discover George Town's street art. The most laidback option is to wander aimlessly around the city - you will for sure stumble across several paintings.

In case the street art is the reason you arrived in the city, and you don't want to miss anything, it is possible to grab a map in any hotel or bike rental shop and either walk and cycle around the city, or take a street art tour.

Get lost in the streets of George Town and look for your favorite piece.

We do not want to sound that we arrived in Malaysia only to eat, but to be honest, after spending a year in New Zealand and a couple of weeks in Australia which are not exactly budget-friendly countries, we could not believe how cheap, but more importantly how tasty the food is.

When traveling in Southeast Asia, we usually did not read any reviews on where to eat.

We traveled on a budget , so we preferred the street food and usually ate in a restaurant where we saw many locals or when we could not resist the aroma.

That's why we won't give you here a list of the best restaurants you must visit - your nose will unmistakably lead you to the nearest stall.

Same as in Melaka , you can taste here the traditional Nyonya cuisine and a mixture of Indian, Chinese and Malay recipes.

You can also consider taking this well-rated Georgetown Food Tour .

TROPICAL SPICE GARDEN

If you are interested in native plants and spices for this area, you should for sure visit Tropical Spice Garden where you can finally see how the spice we eat on daily basis (at least when in Asia) grow.

It is possible to take a cooking class on spot. You can buy your admission ticket here in advance.

Other must-visit places in George Town are clan jetties. Are you wondering what the hell is it?

Simply, the jetties are waterfront settlements standing on the water and comprising of wooden houses built on stilts.

The overwater houses were built in the 19th century by poor Chinese immigrants, who could not afford to buy a house on the mainland, but they stand around Penang island until these days.

Each jetty belonged to one Chinese clan, and although today the jetties are fairly touristy as in every house you can buy refreshment or souvenirs, people still live here.

The most popular is Chew Jetty which is close to the historic center, so it is always better to visit it either early in the morning or later in the afternoon as the wooden boardwalks are pretty narrow.

UNESCO-LISTED HOUSES

The reason why is George Town UNESCO World Heritage City are the beautiful houses and mansions spread all around the city.

The architecture in Penang island is influenced by British colonizers and the traditional Chinese, Indian and Malay inhabitants.

One of the most famous examples of the island's architecture is Pinang Peranakan Mansion which has been turned into a museum, but you will find many interesting buildings almost everywhere in the city center of George Town.

Most of the houses have wooden window shutters and archways, so they are easily recognizable.

Many of them were turned into boutique hotels and restaurants, so you even have a chance to peek inside.

If you want to learn and see more, then consider taking this George Town UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour .

PENANG NATIONAL PARK

Luckily, Penang is not famous only for architecture and food, but also for beaches and nature.

The best way how to escape crowds is head to Penang National Park where you can find many hiking trails leading through the jungle to waterfalls, and often to almost deserted beaches.

It is a great budget thing to do because there is no entrance fee and you can get here easily in 45 minutes by bus which terminates in the park.

You do not have to explore the park only on foot, but it is also possible to rent a boat here and see mangroves, wildlife and get to more secluded beaches.

KEK LOK SI TEMPLE

The largest temple on Pulau Penang is Kek Lok Si Temple which is also one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, and even if you've already seen many temples on this continent, you should not miss this one out.

The temple is absolutely gorgeous, and except for its dimension, you will for sure find interesting many colorful details all around the complex and a large number of golden Budha statues.

To get to the temple, take a bus 203 or 201 to a small village Air Itam, where you will also find a market and many food stalls serving delicious meals.

The admission to the pagoda is free, but you must pay 2 RM in case you want to enter the main pagoda, and another 2 RM (each way) for the inclined lift to reach the Kuan Yin statue.

Also, you can consider taking this combo Penang City, Penang Hill, and Kek Lok Si Tour .

KHOO KONGSI

Khoo Kongsi is an amazing piece of architecture dating to the 19th century. It was built by Chinese descendants, and until today it is one of the finest buildings in George Town.

FORT CORNWALLIS

Dating back to the 18th century, Fort Cornwallis is one of the most famous sights in Penang. It was built by the British army to protect Penang against invaders who could attack the island from the sea.

KAPITAN KELING MOSQUE

The white facade of Kapitan Keling Mosque is peaceful and sublime. Penang is one of those few places in the world where you can find mosques, temples, and churches close to each other.

WHERE TO STAY IN PENANG

There are several districts where you can sleep in Penang Island.

The most popular area is the capital city George Town from where it is a short walk to the most notable sights, great food is always near and in case you want to visit other places on the island, you can get there by public transport or a taxi.

If you prefer to stay near the beach, you can consider hotels at Batu Feringghi or Tanjung Bungah .

We've handpicked three best hotels in Penang island for every type of traveler.

Budget | The Frame Guesthouse - There is no shortage of budget-friendly accommodation, especially in George Town. This stylish hostel offers both private rooms and dormitories, breakfast and friendly vibes.

Mid-range | Jawi Peranakan Mansion - Well-appointed rooms, outdoor pool, lovely decor, and great location are the main reasons why to stay in this well-priced hotel.

Luxury | 23 Love Lane Hotel - Beautifully renovated boutique hotel is located in an old mansion and offers excellent services and lovely rooms where it is a pleasure to take a rest.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN PENANG

How many days should you plan for exploring Pulau Penang?

Despite its small size, to fully indulge the atmosphere, see all the highlights, have time to relax on the beach and eat as much street food as you can, we think four days is a reasonable period to enjoy Penang and all the activities the island has to offer.

We stayed four days, and although we think we did not miss any highlight, we could imagine ourselves to stay even two to three days longer, and only walk the streets and taste new meals and new flavors every day.

On the other hand, if your Malaysia itinerary is more packed, and you can afford to stay only two nights, we would have skipped the beaches as you can find much nicer stretches of sand elsewhere in the country, and we would have focused only on the architecture, street art and food near George Town.

WHEN TO VISIT PENANG

Weather-wise, Penang has an equatorial climate the same as the rest of Malaysia.

You can expect hot and humid weather all year round with temperatures between 22°C and 30°C - the hottest month is March.

The most popular time to travel in Malaysia is between December and March when it is pleasantly warm outside and it rarely rains. From April to November comes the wet season and the rainiest months are September, October, and November.

When traveling on a budget, it is not a bad idea to visit Penang between June and August, which is an offseason, and if you can accept a bit of rain, you will be rewarded by lower prices and fewer crowds.

On the other hand, the busiest time in Penang when accommodation is hard to get and prices are higher is during Christmas, around New Year's Eve and Chinese New Year (check the calendar, the date changes, but usually falls on January or February).

WHAT TO PACK FOR VISITING PENANG

No matter what time in the year you plan on visiting Penang, you can be sure that most of the time you will experience hot and humid conditions, only between April and November be ready for some rain.

Here are five essential things you should pack when traveling to Penang.

Sarong | This little thing is very useful when going to the beach, or in case you want to visit a temple - it is always better and more respectful to cover your shoulders.

Rain Poncho | December to February is dry season, but you should pack rain poncho for your every trip just in case.

Swimsuit | Malaysia is well-known for beautiful sandy beaches, and you can find some of them in Penang as well.

Sunglasses | It is way too sunny in Malaysia, remember to pack sunglasses with high UV protection.

Tank Top | Tank top or short-sleeved t-shirt is must-have in your backpack unless you want to sweat all day long.

HOW TO GET AROUND PENANG

The city center of George Town is pretty compact, and you can basically get everywhere on foot.

There is also a free and frequent CAT bus circling the city and both locals and foreigners can simply hop on and hop off the bus.

To get to the suburban areas of Penang the most comfortable way how to get around is either renting a scooter (it is also possible to rent a car at the airport) or taking a taxi (try Grab which is an analogy to Uber and is much cheaper than the ordinary cab on the street).

Rapid Penang bus company serves basically all routes on the island, and although it often not that easy to figure out the lines, it is the cheapest way how to travel around the island to attractions such as Batu Ferringhi or Penang National Park.

HOW TO GET TO PENANG

There are three ways how to get to Penang. Two options start on the mainland in the city of Butterworth from where you can get to George Town either by boat or via the bridge.

Or you can travel by air as Penang has an international airport.

Unless you travel around Malaysia by rental car , if you want to get from Butterworth to George Town via the bridge, your best bet is to take a taxi (there is public transport, but it takes much longer than traveling by ferry).

Honestly, we don't think that taking a taxi makes any sense as it is much more expensive than a ferry (30 - 40 RM), and it can take up to one hour, depending on traffic.

When traveling to Penang from the mainland, the best option on how to get from Butterworth to George Town is by ferry.

The ferry terminal is close to the bus terminal in Butterworth, and the terminal on the other side is only 10 minutes walk from the George Town's center.

The ferry goes twice an hour, one ride costs 1.3 RM, and it takes only 20 minutes. You do not need to make any reservation in advance.

If you decide on traveling by plane to Penang, you have three options on how to get to George Town or any other city in Penang Island from the airport.

You can either take a regular bus (Rapid Penang Bus lines 401, 401A, or 401E) which is the cheapest option, or you can take a taxi for approximately 30 RM.

The last option is to book a private shuttle in advance.

SAFETY IN PULAU PENANG

Penang is a relatively safe place for Southeast Asian standards, but as always when traveling, use your common sense.

George Town is a large city, so always keep an eye on your valuables. Pickpocketing, bag or phone snatching, is not uncommon.

Do not wander to abandoned and dark alleys, and when going out for a drink, do not leave your glass unattended.

It is always better to leave your valuables in a hotel room (in a safe if possible) and not to flash around the expensive camera or phone when walking around the city center.

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Travel smarter and safer!

WHERE TO TRAVEL NEXT

Depending on your itinerary, the most common destinations travelers usually visit before or after visiting Penang Island are either Cameron Highlands , Ipoh , or another island Langkawi or the capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur .

Travel Resources

Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.

Accommodation : When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld .

Tours : Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.

We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator .

Rental Cars : When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.

Flight Tickets : When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.

Travel Insurance : World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

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 !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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Travel & Food, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

My 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 I had easily implemented 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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Older posts.

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 Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

The old and charming streets of George Town on Penang island lined with heritage mansions and double-storey shophouses. There are street markets selling noodles and bowls of Penang asam laksa, beautiful works of street art, and some of the world’s best stir-fried flat rice noodles. To help you easily navigate Penang Island I’ve put together this Penang travel guide: everything you need to know that covers the most popular attractions to visit, places to eat, and where to stay.

One of the first things that strike you about Penang Island is the lush greenness of the countryside. The island is situated close to the North West Coast of Malaysia across the Penang Strait from the Mainland. It has an area of 293 square kilometers (113 square miles) with many pristine beaches particularly along the north, west, and southwest of the island.

  Many of Penang’s numerous colonial buildings were built between 1786 and 1957. The time when it was directly or indirectly under British rule. Some of the churches in Georgetown look pretty much the same as their counterparts found in English towns and villages.

However, when I was exploring George Town the entire place felt like it belonged to a completely different nation. Not to Malaysians. The Penang Island population is divided between ethnic Malays, Chinese, Indians, and minority groups. Thus you can find Chinese temples, mosques coupled with the influence of British architecture.

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Since 1957 Penang has been an important state in the Federation of Malaysia. It has a lustrous, fertile landscape with highlands in the interior and a picturesque coastline. It is a popular holiday destination for Malaysians and overseas visitors alike and has a wealth of hotels for all budgets.

The island is connected to Peninsula Malaysia by two long bridges and it’s home to nearly three-quarters of a million people. I have been to Penang twice before and it seems that there is always something new to explore with each visit. Whether you are a culture craver 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 (Clan Jetties, Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Hill, etc), I’ve also included a two-day itinerary that you can easily do over a weekend in Penang.

How to Get to Penang

If you’re on a backpacking trip in Malaysia, then the cheapest way to get to Penang is by bus. Most long-distance buses that run from the mainland to the island have intense air conditioning. So you may want to pay a few pennies more for a one-hour flight when traveling from Kuala Lumpur. Otherwise, it will take up to 6 hours for the bus to reach Penang from Kuala Lumpur.

At the same time, navigating Bayan Lepas International Airport is exceptionally easy. While it serves international flights from Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, etc, the airport is rather small. So it was a matter of minutes before I found my way out the glass doors. What I did next was hopping on the Rapid Penang bus into town for under 3 MYR (70 cents). Bus lines 102, 306 and 401E allow you to reach George Town really quickly.

Another safe and convenient option (especially if you travel by car) is to take a ferry from Butterworth (located on the mainland). This old fashioned crossing takes about 20 minutes (which is longer than going over the bridges) but way a lot more interesting. Attention: get there before rush hour!

Getting Around Penang

Once you reach Penang, getting around becomes easier because of the variety of transportation options available to you. There are two main bus stations are at Komtar Complex and at Weld Quay.

Local taxis are plentiful and generally reliable. However, I encountered situations when drivers are reluctant to use the meter. I tend to avoid such taxis and use Grab or Uber as both these apps offer super cheap prices, especially if you need to get to George town from the airport. There is also an efficient bus network that runs throughout the island including the popular tourist destinations such as Penang Hill and Taman Negara.

While you can easily get around George Town on foot (as I did most of the time), the weather regularly gets hot here. On such days, it is better to consider other means of transportation. Rental bicycles and trishaws are popular forms of transport around George Town.

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In Georgetown, it is still possible to hail a tricycle rickshaw (Trishaw). Today these are tourist curios but they are a remnant of Penang’s colonial past. I used their services on a tour around the city — you can see the street art, heritage houses, and other attractions — for around MYR 50 an hour.

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In the tourist area, it is possible to hire a car or more inexpensively a scooter. The scooters provide an excellent option for touring the island, but of course, I recommend always wearing a safety helmet as the law requires it. In Malaysia, they drive on the left side of the road and the standard of driving is generally good.

Best Time To Visit Penang

While the country is generally hot and humid year-round, the best time to visit Penang is between November and the end of January. Like many other destinations in Southeast Asia, Penang sees a lot of sunny days during these months. December-January is peak tourist season right across Malaysia, from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, with great weather all around the country. The temperature rarely falls below 25 degrees Celsius and is often in the thirties. You should wear a hat and adequate sunscreen and ensure you drink enough water to keep hydrated.

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Georgetown Penang weather conditions are, for the most part, comfortable, without being too hot or too humid. There’s little to no rainfall, and the beaches can get packed quickly.

If you want to avoid crowds and can stand occasional showers, then June to October would be a good time as well. During these months the annual monsoon rains begin to fall. But in general, the island will usually see a few hours a day of showers, and the remainder of the day will be dry. When it comes to outdoor activities and sightseeing, it pays to carry an umbrella and wear shoes that won’t slip. September and October see a lot more rain. These are the wettest and the most humid months in Penang, which can get up to 18 or 19 wet days.

Language and Currency

Bahasa Melayu is the national language of Malaysia. It uses the Roman alphabet and it is quite easy for the travelers to learn some useful words and basic phrases, which will delight the friendly locals. The nature of the diverse population means that you are just as likely to hear Chinese or Tamil spoken. English seems to be the second language of most people in Penang and it is widely used and understood.

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The currency of Malaysia is the ringgit and notes come in denominations of 1,5,10,20,50 and 100. Most of the tourist areas have exchange booths where rates are clearly shown. You will need your passport if you are changing banknotes. I have heard some occasional issues with withdrawing money from local ATM. Be sure sure to have a spare credit/debit card or cash in the case that your main card doesn’t work.

Top Things to Do in Penang. 3-Day Penang Itinerary.

How many days in Penang? Three full days in Penang gave me enough time to see as many cool things this island has to offer as possible. I was able to see Kapitan Keling Mosque and Masjid Negeri – State Mosque of Penang and see much of the capital’s street art. I stayed mainly in George Town but if you want to explore Penang’s jungles, beaches and green spaces would definitely take a longer time. Here’s a sample 3-day itinerary suggestion to help you plan your trip. If visiting George Town is your primary goal , then you could easily do it in just 2 days.

Penang Travel Guide: Day 1

1. explore george town.

Georgetown is a very interesting city with bustling streets of colonial style shops. It is easy to get a sense of history as many of the shop facades have not changed in years. Of course, the goods for sale have kept abreast of the times. Elaborate fabrics and batiks are good souvenirs, as are locally made bags and local Art in its different forms. There are several old bookshops and shops which sell curios from Georgetown’s interesting past.

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A large number of local people are Muslims. Therefore, you will hear the Imam’s call to prayer reverberating across the city at frequent intervals. Muslim women, of course, wear the hijab and in Penang, you will also see some women who choose to wear a burka and veil their faces. Religious groups in Penang live harmoniously alongside each other.

Penang Travel Guide: Day 2

2. fort cornwallis.

Overlooking the city is Fort Cornwallis which was built by the British in the late 18th century. The fort ‘s original purpose was to look out to sea for possible invaders. Nowadays you can examine ancient weaponry and wander into the underground prison cells to get a sense of what life might have been like for the poor souls locked up in the stifling heat. There is also an aged lighthouse and a coffee and souvenir shop.

3. Get Up To the Top of Penang Hill

On my second day in Penang, I decided to take a hike up the Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera). The hike is steep uphill and fairly tiring. There were several times when a handful of scooters and SUVs passed me by but I saw no other hikers going up (I met a few coming down). If you’re feeling adventurous, there are various hiking routes, some start near the entrance to Penang Botanic Gardens.

For a panoramic view of Georgetown and the surrounding countryside, you can also take the historic funicular railway. The funicular railway makes make the journey a lot quicker and easier. First operated in 1923, it has been modernized but at the top, you can see some of the original carriages and view photographs of Colonial Penang.

4. George Town’s Street Art

Another side of George Town’s culture is all about street art. The entire city of George Town is a street art lover’s paradise, with different murals juxtaposed against the facades of pre-war historical buildings. These fascinating works of art are scattered throughout the neighborhoods of the port town. If you don’t want to spend an entire day hunting them down or if you’re short on time I’d recommend getting the exact location on Google maps. Or hire a trishaw on the spot instead.

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There are at least five most popular works of street art you should find and appreciate. “Boy on Motorbike” is my favorite so far. Even so, I don’t claim to have even scratched the surface of George Town’s flourishing street art scene. In fact, it’s worth mentioning now, this attraction is constantly evolving, old murals fade and fresh ones appear so there is always something new to discover.

5. Visit the Clan Jetties

The clan jetties are floating villages with wooden walkways, Chinese shops, and houses on the Weld Quay (Pengkalan Weld). Since the mid-nineteenth century, when Chinese immigrants start coming to Malaysia, the jetties facilitated the immigration process for new folks arriving from mainland China. These folks often worked at the docks as fishermen and helms. To make their work easier and safer, they built their homes close to Penang docks.

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Nestled on the eastern coast of George Town, it takes 10 minutes on foot from Komtar. The trishaw costs only a few ringgits. You can also take a Rapid bus ride from the center of Georgetown, bus numbers 307, and 401E. Come here early in the morning to witness the Chinese People preparing food and praying at the temple.

Penang Travel Guide: Day 3

6. kek lok si buddhist temple.

Talking about Penang Island destinations, I couldn’t have skipped Kek Lok Si Temple . Located just a stone’s throw away from Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the country. You shouldn’t consider it as a tourist attraction though. It’s a working temple, there are plenty of Buddhist rituals and ceremonies going on. The most prominent landmark within the complex is the Kek Lok Si Pagoda.

Kek Lok Si temple is a potpourri of architectural styles that combined in a wonderful manner Chinese, Thai, and Burmese elements. Another reason to see it is that these unique types of architecture, reflect local cultural, geographic, and economic forces.

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The temple itself makes for a good day trip from George Town if you enjoy visiting temples. If you travel from there, take a 201, 203, or 204 bus on your half-hour ride to Air Itam. The entrance is free (though you may be asked to donate pennies as a gesture of goodwill). The temple is open from 9 am to 6 pm.

Where to Stay In Penang

There are two main sections in the state of Penang – Penang Island and Seberang Perai. Many visitors to Penang stay in one of the hotels in the tourist beach strip of Batu Ferringhi or Tanjung Bungah (a more budget option) to the north of the island. Here there are hotels to suit all budgets with most of the famous luxury chains represented.

If you are a nature lover and you want to stay away from the downtown area, you can get the perfect accommodation in Bayan Lepas. On the contrary, if you come to experience the unique and exotic street food culture, go shopping, and sightseeing, I’d recommend staying at Gurney Drive.

If you want a taste of the past, however, you could visit the now aging but still luxurious Eastern and Oriental Hotel (The E&O). The E&O opened 1885 and it still strives to show off something of the elegance of the British Colonial era – even down to the dress of the waiters – starched white shirts and shorts and pith helmets. Call in for afternoon tea and you will be transported to another era. It’s one of the best hotels on Penang Island.

The Parkroyal Penang Resort is a good family-friendly mid-range option (Batu Ferringhi).

The Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Resort is all about the luxury experience.

The Old Penang Guesthouse and the Summer Terrace are budget-friendly options nestled within traditional Chinese-style houses.

Campbell House is situated on Campbell Street, one of the main roads within George Town’s heritage neighborhood. This mid-range hotel is a converted heritage house, offering historic vibes but with more luxurious rooms and amenities.

Both WeLuv Travel Guesthouse and the Frame Guesthouse have a super-friendly staff, comfortable beds, and clean rooms.

Where To Eat in Penang

The nature of Penang’s diverse population has resulted in a good choice of restaurants but the island is particularly famous for its street food. There are many places to try this but perhaps the biggest with the most choice can be found in Georgetown’s Gurney Drive. Well-known Malaysian street dishes include fried rice cake strips, spicy coconut noodle soup, and oyster omelets.

If you want a beach holiday in fertile surroundings with the opportunity to explore the past, then Penang is for you.

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20 Places to Visit in Penang and Georgetown + Things To Do

Penang is one of the most storied states in Malaysia and at its heart is the state capital of Tanjung Penaga or George Town, whose historical core has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.

As the first British settlement in Asia, George Town offers a preview of the past within its well-preserved walls while generously providing options for the chic traveler to enjoy the journey. Suffice it to say the city has the best of both worlds—a frozen-in-time surrounding with the modern lifestyle’s cravings. Some of the attractions worth visiting in Georgetown include the Kek Lok Si Temple complex, Khoo Kongsi, Fort Cornwallis, Old Penang Town Hall, and Gurney Plaza. You may also treat yourself to see the other highlights in Penang state while you are here by visiting Penang Hill, Penang Hill Tram Ride, and Batu Ferringhi Beach.

Traveling to Penang and George Town is a breeze for those coming from major Asian cities because the state is well-served by an international airport near Bayan Lepas. Penang International Airport has daily flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Jakarta, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Penang travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Penang Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

View all travel tips on: Penang .

1. Kek Lok Si Temple

Location : Air Itam, Penang Island, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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2. Penang Hill

Location : 11500 Bukit Bendera, Penang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

See rates & book online

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

3. Penang Hill Tram Ride

Location : Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera, Penang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

4. Penang Food Trip

5. Fort Cornwallis

Location : Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

6. Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower

Location : Lebuh Light, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

7. Old Penang Town Hall & City Hall

Location : Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

8. Temple of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin Teng) / Kong Hock Keong

Location : 30, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

9. Kapitan Keling Mosque

Location : 14, Jalan Buckingham, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

10. Acheen Street Mosque (Lebuh Aceh Mosque / Masjid Jamek)

Location : Aceh Street Mosque, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Little India

Location : Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

12. Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple

Location : Lebuh Queen, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

13. Yap Kongsi Temple

Location : Lebuh Armenian, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

14. Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Clan Temple

Location : 8, Lebuh Armenian, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

15. Love Lane

16. St George’s Anglican Church

Location : 1, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

17. Church of the Assumption

Location : Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

18. Malaysian Railway Building (Wisma Kastam)

Location : Gat Lebuh China, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

19. Abandoned Shin Chung Branch School

Location : 11, Jalan Transfer, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

20. Christian Cemetery

Location : 4, Lorong Midlands, George Town, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Penang that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Penang

Penang tourist spots, things to do in Penang, where to go in Penang & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Penang

Click below & search recommended Penang hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Dive Into Malaysia

Penang Travel Guide

Our favourite place in Malaysia is Penang. It’s a great mix of culture, beaches and history with the best food in Malaysia thrown in too!

Penang is a small island located off the west coast of peninsular Malaysia. It’s easy to get to with an international airport on the island itself and it’s connected to the mainland by bridges.

Penang has an interesting history. Located between two parts of Asia, it’s been a centre of trade for a long time. George Town, the capital, was first settled by the British in 1786 and its centre is UNESCO listed thanks to its unique architecture, culture, and townscape. It’s always been a melting pot of cultures, and it still is today.

Known as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang is the perfect place for trying the best foods in Malaysia especially at popular night hawker centres.

Being an island, Penang has many beaches and a mountainous, jungle interior. If you are someone who likes a mix of the hustle and bustle of a city (George Town is Malaysia’s second biggest) along with natural attractions, you have it all here!

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience In Penang?

Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!

There are two different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food or nightlife.

No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Penang.

There’s no better way to discover this great island.

Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30  for RM30 off your tour.

Click here for all your option s .

Penang Attractions

Penang has some great places to visit from temples to the jungle and beaches and more. Read about them below.

Penang Hill: Full Guide To What To Do On Penang Hill [2024]

What To Do In Penang In 3 Days [Penang Itinerary] 2024

Escape Penang Review: Everything You Need To Know [2024]

Kuala Lumpur Or Penang: Which Malaysian City Should You Visit?

Penang food tours.

The best way to explore both Penang’s history and culture AND its fabulous food is with a food tour.

Dive Into Malaysia readers receive RM30 off Simply Enak’s fabulous food tours with the code: DIVE30

Click here to check out their tours now.

Simply Enak Food Tours (And Discount Code!)

Penang accommodation.

There is a great range of accommodation in Penang from luxury resorts to cheaper options. Find our guides below.

Exactly Where To Stay In Penang Island [2024] Best Places🏝️

Best Hotel Near Penang Airport [2024]

Top 10 Choices For The Best Hotel In George Town, Penang [2024]

Best 5 Star Hotels In Penang [2024]

Best Beach Hotels In Penang Island For Every Budget [2024]

Best Hotels In Batu Ferringhi [2024]

Penang travel.

Penang is a major population centre in Malaysia and is easy to reach via flights, bus, cars or trains to Butterworth. Below are full guides to getting here from popular destinations.

EXACTLY How To Get From Penang To Langkawi✅[2024]

EXACTLY How To Get From Penang To Cameron Highlands [2024]

EXACTLY How To Get From Melaka To Penang [2024]

EXACTLY How To Get From Kuala Lumpur To Penang [2024]

EXACTLY How To Go From Ipoh To Penang [2024]

Plaza Premium Lounge Penang Review: Exactly What You Will Find Here

You can find more information on other destinations in Malaysia across this site.

• 1.1 Penang Island ( Pulau Pinang )
• 1.2 Mainland ( Seberang Perai )
• 2.1 Orientation
• 2.2 Climate
• 2.3 When to go
• 4.1 By plane
• 4.3.1 From Singapore/Kuala Lumpur
• 4.3.2 From Thailand
• 4.5 By minivan
• 4.6 Cruises
• 5.1 Walking
• 5.3 By trishaw
• 5.4 By boat
• 5.6 By taxi
• 5.7 By bicycle
• 7.1 Events and festivals
• 9.1.1 Meals
• 9.1.2 Snacks and sweets
• 9.2 Bakeries
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 10.4 Long-term
• 12.1 Emergency numbers

Penang [dead link] ( Malay : Pulau Pinang ; Mandarin : 槟城), renowned as the Pearl of the Orient , is a state on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia . Geographically, the state consists of Pulau Pinang , or Penang Island, and Seberang Perai , the mainland strip facing the island, which are separated by a small stretch of the Strait of Malacca.

Penang is rich in culture and history, with a unique mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and British influences. Visitors will find Penang brimming with charming historic buildings, ornate religious sites, sandy beaches, kampungs surrounded by rice paddies, vast unbeaten jungles, all topped with a splash of bustling city life. Hailed as the food capital of Malaysia and sometimes likened to Singapore in the 1960s, Penang has become a popular destination with plenty on offer for those who visit.

Cities and towns [ edit ]

Penang Island ( Pulau Pinang ) [ edit ]

• 5.4145 100.3292 1 George Town – The capital of Penang; a favourite spot for tourists as it has many attractive pre-Second World War houses and shophouses, as well as 19th century churches, temples, mosques, and colonial buildings. George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site (it was inscribed as one of the Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca together with the city of Melaka).
• 5.401865 100.277833 2 Air Itam – A largely residential town just west of the capital. The area is often visited by tourists heading to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple, but is also home to some exceptional local food.
• 5.28333 100.267 3 Bayan Lepas – Penang's main electronic manufacturing area and location of its international airport. George Town's satellite town.
• 5.35 100.233333 4 Balik Pulau – Literally "Back of The Island" in Malay; a small town nestled among Malay villages, fruit orchards, and padi fields. Popular for its assam laksa, durian, and nutmeg. Favourite spot for countryside cycling.
• 5.466667 100.25 5 Batu Ferringhi – On the northern coast of Pulau Pinang , this area is home to white sandy beaches and luxurious hotels. A favourite spot for both locals & tourists. The nearby resort town of Tanjung Bungah and the fishing village of Teluk Bahang are also included here.

Mainland ( Seberang Perai ) [ edit ]

• 5.394167 100.366389 6 Butterworth – mainland gateway to Penang, directly across the Straits of Malacca from George Town
• 5.363056 100.466667 7 Bukit Mertajam – capital of Seberang Perai Tengah district
• 5.165833 100.478056 8 Nibong Tebal – capital of Seberang Perai Selatan district
• 5.281707 100.476598 9 Simpang Ampat – a small town famous for its nearby seafood at Bukit Tambun and Batu Kawan . The nearby island of Pulau Aman is a popular weekend getaway and also famous for its seafood.
• 5.394444 100.402778 11 Seberang Jaya – satellite township

Understand [ edit ]

Penang was part of the Malay sultanate of Kedah until 1786, when Captain Francis Light built a fort at the site of present-day George Town and managed to get the island ceded to the British East India Company. The island, along with Malacca and Singapore , was one of the three British Straits Settlements.

The name Penang comes from the Malay word Pinang , which means betel nut (槟榔) (Areca catechu) . The name Pulau Pinang translated literally from Malay means "betel nut island". The original name of Penang was Pulau Ka-satu or "First Island", it was renamed to Prince of Wales Island on 12 Aug 1786 to commemorate the birthday of the Prince of Wales, later, George IV. During the early and middle part of the last century, Penang Island was also known as "The Pearl of the Orient".

The capital, George Town , was named after King George III of Great Britain. Today, Penang has the highest population density in Malaysia and is the only state where ethnic Chinese are in the majority. Despite its small size, the state of Penang today has the third-largest economy amongst the states of Peninsular Malaysia, after Selangor and Johor .

Orientation [ edit ]

The state of Penang is made up of two parts, Penang Island, a turtle-shaped island in the Straits of Malacca 8km west of Peninsular Malaysia, and Seberang Perai (formerly Province Wellesley), a rectangular-shaped district that is part of the mainland.

George Town is Penang's largest city. Development of the eastern coast of the island is slowly linking George Town, in the northeast, to the city of Bayan Lepas in the southeast. The northern coast, including Batu Ferringhi , is also being heavily developed and features the island's best beaches and resorts. The island's western side is still relatively undeveloped and has a serene "kampung" (village) lifestyle and feel about it.

Climate [ edit ]

Penang, like the rest of Malaysia, has an equatorial climate. This means temperatures of between about 22°C/72°F (night) and 30°C/86°F (day), between 70% and 90% humidity, and an annual total rainfall of about 2,400mm. The driest months are usually January and February. The wettest period is usually from September to November with August also being quite wet; frequent thunderstorms can be expected in these months.

When to go [ edit ]

Penang's high season is around Christmas, New Year's Day, and Chinese New Year (check the lunar calendar; it could fall on the end of January or early to mid February), when the east coast of Malaysia is drenched and hordes of sun-seeking tourists descend on the island. Accommodation tends to be packed, and priced accordingly.

Talk [ edit ]

Almost all locals in Penang are able to speak Malay , the national language of Malaysia. The ethnic Chinese in Penang (who form the majority) usually speak a localized variant of Hokkien known as Penang Hokkien, which Minnan speakers from Taiwan and Fujian may have some difficulty understanding due to the slang and some loan words from Malay. Most ethnic Chinese are also able to speak Mandarin and Cantonese . Ethnic Indians usually converse with each other in Tamil and ethnic Malays usually converse with each other in Malay, but quite a good number of Indian and Malay Penangites can converse in Hokkien.

English is spoken fluently by most white-collar professionals and businessmen, as well as by service staff working in hotels and tourist attractions. Most other non-elderly locals are able to communicate in broken English, supplemented by non-verbal forms of communication such as pointing and gesturing. When in doubt, gravitate toward younger locals, as the Commonwealth variety of English is a required subject in Malaysian schools. Nearly all teenagers or adults in their 20s or 30s should be able to speak reasonably fluent English.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Penang International Airport ( PEN  IATA ), formerly Bayan Lepas International Airport, is the third largest airport in Malaysia and situated in Bayan Lepas, about 16 km (9.9 mi) south of George Town . The airport is served by more than 15 airlines with flights operating to domestic and international Asian destinations. Domestic flights include Johor Bahru , Kota Bharu , Kota Kinabalu , Kuala Lumpur , Kuching , Kuantan , Langkawi and Malacca , served mostly by AirAsia , Batik Air and a few destinations by Malaysia Airlines and Firefly . International flights also call at the airport from Banda Aceh , Bangkok , Guangzhou , Hong Kong , Jakarta , Krabi , Ko Samui , Medan , Phuket , Singapore , Surabaya and Taipei .

Ground transportation options to the airport fall under two categories, local taxis or the public bus system, Rapid Penang . Naturally buses are the cheaper option but if you do want a taxi head towards the taxi counter for a pre-paid coupon to your specific location. Several buses depart from the airport to different locations around the island. If heading to George Town take bus 401 or 401E to Weld Quay (Not to Balik Pulau), with Bus 401E being an express bus. Bus 102 runs from the airport all the way to Batu Ferringhi via KOMTAR, but it might take longer than your flight in and the service is at best hourly. KOMTAR or Weld Quay (the terminus) are good areas to alight from the bus as most other buses will also pass through these bus stops. The bus fare is RM2.70 each way and ensure that you have exact fare as the bus driver cannot give you change.

By car [ edit ]

Penang is connected to the mainland and the North-South Expressway by the Penang Bridge , one of the longest bridges in Asia, and by the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge, commonly called the Penang Second Bridge , which is further south and even longer. There is no toll for vehicles heading to the mainland on either bridge, but vehicles headed to the island must pay a toll as follows: For the First Bridge: motorcycles: RM1.40, cars: RM7, lorries and vans with two axles and four wheels: RM12. For the Second Bridge: motorcycles: RM1.70, cars and other vehicles with two axles and three or four wheels, except buses: RM8.50, vans and other vehicles with two axles and six wheels (except for buses, which are charged RM26.20): RM30.50.

By train [ edit ]

The nearest train station to Penang island is Butterworth train station and is operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu (Malayan Railway or KTMB) . Tickets for all services can be booked at train stations, the Butterworth ferry terminal or on-line . It's better not to book the train at the last minute (reservations can be made as early as 2 months in advance) as you'll find the service becomes quite full usually around a week before the train's departure. This is especially true for the overnight sleeper cars.

Once at Butterworth train station you can walk to the local port and take take the ferry to George Town on Penang island. For more information on this service see the Penang Port section below. The other alternative is to take a taxi from the train station to the island itself, via Penang bridge. However this does cost more than the ferry service.

From Singapore/Kuala Lumpur [ edit ]

Butterworth is served by KTM's flagship ETS service from Gemas , Johor , passing through Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh along the way. Trains are clean, fast and air-conditioned, making these by far the most comfortable way to travel overland. The ETS service is being extended to Johor Bahru , but until it is completed, you will have to take one of the old and slow diesel trains from Johor Bahru to Gemas, and transfer onto the ETS service. If coming from Singapore , you will need to catch the shuttle service across the Causeway to Johor Bahru, then transfer onto the Gemas-bound train, and finally onto the ETS train to Butterworth at Gemas.

From Thailand [ edit ]

There are no longer any through trains from Bangkok to Butterworth. Instead, you will have to catch a Thai sleeper train from Bangkok to Padang Besar , cross the border into Malaysia, then transfer onto the KTM Komuter service from Padang Besar to Butterworth.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses in George Town arrive/depart at the new bus terminal at Sungai Nibong, a fifteen-minute ride from the center, and about ten minutes from the airport. A taxi to the centre costs RM20. Rapid Penang bus 301 and 401E goes to KOMTAR and Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay). Major coach operators include Fivestars with online booking, Plusliner / Nice , Transnasional , and Mutiara .

The trip from Kuala Lumpur 's Pudu Raya bus station or Kota Bharu , Perhentian Islands each cost around RM35 and take around 5-6h. Buses to/from Johor Bahru and Singapore take 10h and cost RM60 or SGD45.

It's possible to travel by bus to and from Thailand. Tickets are available from travel shops in and around Penang Road. Some prices and journey times are:

• Krabi - RM59, 8h
• Phuket - RM76, 12-14h
• Bangkok - RM125, 18h.

By minivan [ edit ]

Minivan service is more expensive than bus service and is available between George Town and cities in Thailand such as Ko Phi Phi , Phuket , Trang , Surat Thani , Krabi , Ko Samui , Ko Pha Ngan , Bangkok and Hat Yai (RM40) on daily basis. Service is available to the Perhentian Islands for RM130-150, boat included.

Cruises [ edit ]

Swettenham Pier in George Town is the cruise terminal of Penang, with many cruises calling here from other cities in the region. The port is also a frequent stop for round-the-world and major regional cruises often originating from Singapore , Hong Kong , Australia , Europe and North America . Typically these cruises allow a port visit in George Town for several hours before continuing to another destination. Refer to individual cruise companies for details of these cruise routes and the duration of stay at each port.

Get around [ edit ]

Walking [ edit ].

One of the best ways to sight see is to walk around George Town; but wear light clothes, start early in the morning, and put on plenty of sun-block during the daytime. When crossing the roads, remember to look both ways, even on a one-way street.

RapidPenang , the local bus service, features new buses. All bus stations and bus stops which are serviced by the RapidPenang buses are labelled with proper signboards to ensure user-friendliness. Buses are somewhat frequent on the main artery to Batu Ferringhi . Rapid Penang bus 101 bound for Teluk Bahang goes through midtown Pulau Tikus, (northwest end of) Gurney Drive, Tanjung Tokong, Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi (Starbucks is a good place get off and gives access to the beach), Tropical Spice Garden, Escape/Entopia and terminates at the Penang National Park entrance.

RapidPenang bus 203 and 204 to Air Itam (RM1.50 adult) departs westward on Lebuh Chulia (the main backpacker hotel road) or southbound from the KOMTAR building are handy for visiting both Kek Lok Si Temple and Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera) Funiciular Base Station, approximately 30mins south west of the city center. The driver will inform you of when to alight. Bus 204 departs from the funicular base station to return to Komtar and onward.

The main hub for buses in George Town is KOMTAR, the tallest building in town. The secondary hub is located at the Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay) ferry terminal. All buses depart from the ferry terminal will stopover at KOMTAR, but downtown-bound buses destined for KOMTAR may not go all the way to the ferry terminal; ask the bus operator. There is a new long-distance bus terminal at Sungai Nibong, refer to by bus entry.

Municipal Council of Penang Island together with RapidPenang provide a free shuttle bus service in George Town called CAT (Central Area Transit), which runs approximately between the Pengkalan Weld ferry terminal and KOMTAR every 20 min daily 06:00-24:00, (including Sundays and public holidays). Visit CAT bus for more details.

Also, foreigners can purchase a Rapid Passport for RM30 and enjoy a week of unlimited travel onboard all rapid Penang buses.

Bus times don't adhere too well to the timetables because of traffic and perhaps other factors. Download the MyRapid PULSE app for live bus locations. You need to enter the bus route number under "Where to?" to see the live feed.

By trishaw [ edit ]

These three-wheeled human-powered vehicles might be the best idea for a pleasant city tour. One can stop at any point to take a photo or buy souvenirs. Many trishaw riders are also excellent 'tour guides'. Negotiate the fare first before getting on a trishaw; it is advisable to hire them by the hour for extended sightseeing.

By boat [ edit ]

If you wish to travel between the mainland and Penang Island then the Penang Ferry Service is a cheap and unique option to take. The ferry operates between Butterworth at Sultan Abdul Halim ferry terminal on the mainland and George Town's Raja Tun Uda ferry terminal at Weld Quay ( Pengkalan Weld ) on Penang Island. Ferries depart every 20 - 30 minutes between 06:30 – 23:30 daily with the one-way fare costing RM2.00 for adults and RM2.50 for motorcyclists; for children, person with disability and bicyclist ticket kindly refer to the ticket counter. From both ports, Rapid Penang Buses are nearby to help connect you to the rest of the mainland or Island. Car ferries were retired in 2020, and the new ferries are only able to carry motorcycles, bicycles and passengers.

Car rentals may be a viable option, especially if you are planning to get off the beaten track and explore the western or southern coast of the island. Take note that Penang Island has quite a number of one-way streets and narrow roads. Many Penangites ride motorbikes and a minority of them have disregard for pedestrians, cars, and even their own lives, so you must be very careful when driving on the roads. Avoid driving during the rush hours 07:30-09:30 and 17:30-19:30. Motorcycle riders can be undisciplined and tourists should be extra vigilant of them.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis in Penang are equipped with meters and by law they are mandated to use them, but practically all drivers will refuse to turn them on. Always haggle with the taxi driver and agree on a price beforehand.

At some high-end hotels, particularly on Batu Ferringhi, you may find blue SUVs marked "Teksi Executif" (Executive Taxi). These taxis do use the meter, but are hard to find on the streets.

To avoid haggling for the price, try using a taxi booking smart phone app. Grab works well in Penang. Useful also to get taxi fare prices.

By bicycle [ edit ]

There are plenty of places to rent a bicycle in Georgetown. There is also a bicycle sharing system called LinkBike . It has 25 stations with typically 10 or 12 bike racks. You need to download their smart phone app and pay for a short term membership such as 1 or 2 days using a Visa or Mastercard. You can then use the bikes as often as you like, the first 30 mins are free then its RM1 per hour but often 30 mins is enough for a short hop. You are charged once for rides over 30 mins at the end of your membership period so you are not going to get lots of RM1 charges.

See [ edit ]

Penang island, in particular, is full of things to see, including the great views of George Town and environs and across to Seberang Perai from Penang Hill , the tremendous Kek Lok Si pagoda in Ayer Itam , the many historic Chinese towkay (merchant) mansions , and the quiet beaches on Balik Pulau .

• 5.415294 100.3373 1 Armenian Street , Armenian Street, George Town . A narrow street in old town George Town, with Penang's most famous example of street art, Ernest Zacharevic's Children on a Bicycle . Lots of shops, cafes and restaurants as well. This street used to be the home of Armenian Merchants, later it hosted a meeting of Sun Yat-sen that changed China's history the site of which is now a museum, and today it has a rich history with different cultures represented. ( updated Jan 2024 )

Do [ edit ]

The secluded beaches of Pantai Kerachut, Muka Head, and Teluk Kampi are located on the northern coast. There is an old lighthouse at Muka Head beach. You can reach these beaches by either hiking (1 - 3 hours) or by hiring a fisherman's "sampan" (boat) from the small village of Teluk Bahang. The village has a kilometre-long beach and a small Scout campsite.

Jungle trekking & camping in the reserve forest in Teluk Bahang : go to the northwestern cape of the island where there are unspoiled beaches and an old lighthouse. For a quicker and more relaxed way to reach the secluded beaches there, approach the locals at Kampung Nelayan for boat rides to beaches like Muka Head , Pantai Kerachut , and Teluk Kampi . Kampung Nelayan is less than 1 km down the road northwest of the small roundabout located at Teluk Bahang . More strenuous but cooler walking can also be done on Penang Hill. Popular walks start around the Botanical Gardens, the Youth Park, and Moon Gate which is located in between the two.

' Golf clubs include Penang Golf & Country Club near Bayan Lepas , and Bukit Jawi Golf Resort near Nibong Tebal .

Watersports are on the agenda for many visitors, although the waters are a bit too murky for scuba diving and a bit too calm for surfing or more extreme pursuits. Swimming is OK along most of the northern coast especially near the international-class hotels as they do their best to keep the beaches and water clean. You can also try out jet skis and parasailing near most of the hotels along Batu Feringhi beach.

Cycling , included guided cycling tours in Balik Pulau .

Gyms include Seven Star Gym upstairs in Chowrasta Market, near Chulia St on Penang Road, across the street from Mydin's. Cost is RM10 per visit. Jen Hotel, next to Komtar, also has a gym non-guests can use for a fee.

Night activities can be found in Upper Penang Rd or UPR. It is a very popular place to be at night among locals and tourists alike. It is opposite the famed Eastern and Oriental Hotel and beside the City Bayview Hotel.

Events and festivals [ edit ]

During major festivals such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year and Deepavali, organizations and politicians will have open houses welcoming the everyone, including tourists.

• Hari Raya Puasa / Aidil Fitri . This is the local name for the Muslim celebration at the end of the fasting month of Ramadhan.
• Chinese New Year . Celebrating the start of Spring for fifteen days where there will be plenty of lion dances accompanied by noisy drums, cymbals and firecrackers as various shops and institutions usher in the new year.
• Thaipusam . A Hindu festival celebrated mostly by the Tamil community on the full moon in the Tamil month of Thai (Jan/Feb).
• Vesak , ( Wesak ). A Buddhist festival celebrated mainly by the Chinese community on .ar month. It is characterized by a street parade. Temples will typically be filled with devotees and there will be a variety of activities by the various Buddhist associations and societies on this day.
• The Penang International Dragon Boat Festival is held annually at the Teluk Bahang Dam.
• Penang Bon Odori Carnival . A Japanese traditional harvest carnival usually with drum and dance performances.
• Hungry Ghost Month . A Taoist practice where the ghosts are believed to be released from hell for the duration of the 7th lunar month (End Jul - Early Sep). Households can be seen making offerings by the roadside at night and markets will set up temporary stages to entertain the spirits with a variety of traditional Chinese Opera and modern pop songs.
• The Feast of St. Anne . Late July at St. Anne's Church, Bukit Mertajam. A Christian religious festival that includes a candle-light procession at the church.
• Nine Emperor Gods vegetarian festival , held at Taoist temples for 9 days of the 9th lunar month in the Chinese calendar, normally at the end of Sept or Oct.
• Deepavali . The Hindu Festival of Lights which, according to legend, celebrates the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon Raavana.
• Penang Floral Festival . Held at the Penang Botanic Gardens annually.
• Songkran , the Thai Water Festival, is held in George Town annually.

Buy [ edit ]

Outdoor markets in Penang include the Flea Market at Lorong Kulit in Georgetown, and Pasar Malam (Night Market) along Batu Ferringhi.

Eat [ edit ]

Penang is widely considered the food capital of Malaysia and is a melting pot of cuisines. The obvious mix of Malay, Chinese, Peranakan/Nonya and Indian cuisine has a strong presence along with a variety of other international fare. Penangites live to eat and will eat anywhere, provided the food is exceptional. Often some of the best food can be found along the side of a busy road or even down an inconspicuous alleyway. The rule of thumb is to be adventurous with your tongue, look at the condition of the stall and its surroundings. If in doubt where to eat, go where the locals eat and ask around for recommendations.

Local delicacies [ edit ]

If you have been to Singapore or other parts of Malaysia you may see some familiar names, but don't be fooled as some dishes in Penang are quite different from what you may get elsewhere. With that in mind, many dishes that are common throughout Malaysia are also present in Penang, which can be found under Malaysian cuisine . The following is a list of some common and popular Penang dishes.

Meals [ edit ]

• Assam Laksa is a far cry from the sweet, coconut Singapore version. The broth of this noodle soup is packed with tamarind ( assam ), Lemongrass, galangal and flaked fish and is typically garnished with pineapple, mint, onion, prawn paste and a generous helping of chilli. The combination is utterly unique, powerful and will have the uninitiated breathing fire. The coconut variety, called Curry Mee , is also available in Penang.
• Char Hor Fun (炒河粉) is a local dish with flat rice noodles ( kway teow ) in a delicious broth of beaten eggs and seafood bits. Goes best with pickled green chillies.
• Char Kway Teow (炒馃条) is the ever popular stir-fried ( char ) flat rice noodle ( kway teow ) dish found throughout Malaysia and Singapore, often mixed with prawns, cockles, bean sprouts and vegetables, with an egg mixed in on request. Exceptional versions of this dish can be found all over Penang, with the best typically coming from roadside stalls, Hawker centers and coffeeshops, or Kopitiams .
• Hokkien Mee (福建面) in Penang bears little resemblance to the stir fried dish of the same name found in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. It is a soup based dish filled with rice and egg noodles, pork, prawns, vegetables, bean sprouts, a hard boiled egg and fried shallots. Mee Udang is the Malay version of Hokkien Mee.
• Kway Teow Th'ng (粿条汤) contains flat rice noodles ( kway teow ) in a clear chicken soup ( th'ng ) with slices of chicken, pork, fish cake and garnished with chopped spring onions. Some also include duck meat or even offal, but you can request for them to leave it out.
• Lobak , or Lor bak (卤肉), comprises minced pork wrapped in tofu skin and is very famous in Penang. Similar to a sausage, you can also choose the accompanying servings of prawn fritters, tofu, fish cakes, Taiwan sausages or even century eggs. They are all fried up and served with chilli sauce. At street stalls you just grab what you want and give to the chef to cook.
• Lor Mee (鹵麵) is a dish unique to Penang comprising of yellow noodles in sticky brown coloured gravy and commonly served with egg and pork. Some vendors may also include offal in their lor mee, but as always you can request for it to be left out.
• Mee Sotong is a popular local dish found specifically at the Kota Selera Hawker Center, near Fort Cornwallis. The dish contains egg noodles served squid, shallots and a fishy, spicy sauce. A wedge of lime is usually given to add extra zing to the dish. You can also find this dish at several other hawker centres.

• Nasi Kandar is literally white rice ( nasi ) with anything else you want with it. Although these days it is sold in virtually every Malaysian city, Penang is where the dish originated from, and according to many Malaysians is still where the best ones are. Typical side dishes to add include curries, fried chicken or fish, prawns, squid, hardboiled eggs and vegetables and it's often completed with splashes of various curry sauces. It may not be a particularly pretty dish, but it is loved by Malaysians. Be warned that adding too many sides can make the dish quite expensive. Many Penangites have their own favourite stall, and some stalls are open 24 hours, so ask around for their recommendation.
• Oh Chien , or Or Chen , is simply an oyster omelette, a very popular dish among Penangites, and differs significantly from the better-known Taiwanese version. You can find it all over at hawker centres, Chinese coffee shops and some seafood restaurants. It is typically mixed with sweet potato starch, chives, radish and dash of soy sauce, fish sauce and white pepper during the cooking process.
• Rojak can refer to two different dishes. Chinese rojak (or just rojak at hawker stalls) is a salad of raw mango, pineapple, cucumber, white turnip, fried bean curd and topped with peanuts a dark thick sauce of shrimp paste and sugar. The ingredients do vary slightly between stalls. Pasembor , also called Indian rojak , is found mostly at Mamak stalls. It consists of cucumbers, fried dough fritters, bean curds, prawn fritters, hard boiled eggs, bean sprouts, cuttlefish and topped with a sweet thick, spicy peanut sauce.
• Satay , or Sate , obviously is the famous meat-on-a stick that is found all over Malaysia. Often you can find chicken or beef satay, but what makes Penang different is that the Chinese vendors also serve up pork satay. Once cooked over hot coals they are served with a fresh salad of cucumbers, onions and a spicy-sweet peanut dipping sauce. Some place will also serve it with compressed rice.
• Seafood is not exactly a dish, but considering much of the state lined by coastline, it is no surprise that it is a big player in Penang cuisine. Seafood is used in all local cuisines, from Indian tandoori prawns, to Chinese black pepper crab or even the Malay grilled fish ( ikan bakar ). Seafood restaurants are common along the coastline, particularly around Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang along the north coast or Batu Maung to the south.

Snacks and sweets [ edit ]

• Ais Kacang , also known as ABC or Air Batu Campur , is a concoction of shaved ice, red beans, grass jelly, sweet corn and attap palm seed. It is finished with lashings of coconut milk or evaporated milk, palm sugar syrup ( gula melaka ) and other coloured syrups.
• Biscuits and Pastries - Traditional biscuits such as Tambun Pneah (淡文饼), Beh Teh Sor (马蹄酥), Heong Pneah (香饼), Pong Pneah (清糖饼) and Tau Sar Pneah (豆沙饼). Coconut tart, If you have eaten egg tart before then instead of the egg put in some coconut and voila! You get coconut tart and definitely the best is at Cintra Lane.
• Cendol , or Chendol , is somewhat like ais kacang . Shaved ice is topped with mushy red beans, green coloured rice flour noodles, coconut milk and palm sugar syrup ( gula melaka ). It is simple, sweet and satisfying, particularly on a hot sunny day.
• Durian is a popular local fruit that is much loved or much hated depending on your taste. The odour of the fruit is distinctive and pungent with the flesh often described as rich, sweet and creamy by some while others liken it to warm garlic ice cream. Stalls in markets and by the roadside often sell pre-packaged flesh or the whole fruit itself. There are several fruit farms located around Balik Pulau which are good places to sample the fruit and to find out about the various durian varieties. You can also find durian in various sweets including ice creams, cakes and biscuits, with the flavour being much more subtle than the fruit itself.
• Kaya is a jam-like spread made of eggs and coconut milk. Can really be spread on anything, but is often eaten for breakfast on toast. To impress the locals, order some kaya toast with runny eggs and a strong cup of coffee ( kopi ). You can also find kaya in many pastries and sweets.
• Nutmeg (豆蔻) is commonly grown in Penang and a favourite among locals. Preserved nutmeg strips, either in dry or wet form, are eaten as a snack and the rind is used to make nutmeg juice, or Lau Hau Peng . It is also used in traditional medicine, with nutmeg oil or balm used for illnesses related to the nervous and digestive systems.

Bakeries [ edit ]

Penang is famous throughout the country for its Chinese bakeries. For ethnic Chinese tourists from Singapore or elsewhere in Malaysia, a visit to one of these bakeries is a must, and friends and office colleagues would generally be expecting some pastries as souvenirs from someone returning from a trip to Penang.

Sleep [ edit ]

Much of Penang's accommodation options can be found along the northern area of Penang Island, with bargains to be found in George Town and Batu Ferringhi . Take note that advertised prices often do not include the 6% government tax and 10% service charge that is required by law for hotels. Informal accommodation, such as small hostels and simple home stays may not be required to include this additional charge. Advertised prices will often show a plus-plus after the ringgit amount, to indicate the charges are excluded from the price. As such, prices advertised as RM30++ will actually cost RM34.80. Since 2017 there is also a RM10 per room per day tax for foreigners only.

Budget [ edit ]

Most of Penang's budget accommodation is in the form of backpacker hostels , located in George Town, within and near the historical core of the city. There is a large concentration of hostels located along and around Lebuh Chulia, Jalan Muntri and Lorong Love. Many of the hostels are within charming and slowly decaying historic shops that have been renovated to house guests. In terms of price, expect to pay around RM20–40 for a dorm bed, RM50–60 for a single private or RM60–100 for twin and double private rooms. Most of the better hostels will at least have shared bathroom facilitates, air-con, Wi-Fi and a simple breakfast.

For those who do not favour hostels, there are a few budget hotels available scattered throughout the state. The notable Tune Hotel that is found throughout Malaysia is located in George Town, just outside the historical city area. Budget hotels are generally simple, a little worse for wear, but still livable, and have the advantage of a private ensuite. Noise insulation is non-existent in many and can be a major problem for the light sleepers.

Mid-range [ edit ]

Mid-range beach accommodation can be found in Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah, typically those that are not located directly next to the beach front. In some cases, Mid-range hotels are not much better than some of the better budget hotels and it may be worth paying a little more for a more luxurious hotel. Heading to Balik Pulau offers a much more laid back experience with a small range of home stays among rice paddies, fruit farms and kampungs (villages) to a couple of more expensive retreats.

Splurge [ edit ]

Penang has a modest range of luxury hotels for those who can afford it, including the Eastern & Oriental Hotel , founded by the same Armenian family who opened the famous Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Beach resorts are also common luxury options, with most found along the beach strip of Batu Ferringhi and prices are fairly competitive. There are a few business hotels in Bayan Lepas which are located near the airport and the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone.

Long-term [ edit ]

Those intending to stay in Penang for an extended period of time should note that prices, particularly on Penang Island, are quite high for Malaysian standards. Some hotels and resorts offer long term stay options, typically with certain discounts and perks included, but these options do tend to be somewhat expensive. Better value options can be found in private housing blocks, or Condos , which are typically located within suburban areas and more expensive options near the waterfront, particularly around Gurney Drive in George Town and Tanjung Bungah .

Connect [ edit ]

Stay safe [ edit ].

Penang is relatively a very safe place for travellers. However, as in most other places, Penang has its share of crime, so common precautions must be taken against snatch-thieves and scammers. Some other precautions:

• Don't walk alone in dark and deserted places.
• Don't accept rides from Kereta Sapu (passenger cars/unlicensed taxis).
• Don't carry valuables in motorbike-baskets.
• Don't leave valuables in hotel rooms.
• Don't place valuables on restaurant tables.
• Do be wary of snatch-thieves - especially when wearing jewellery and/or carrying bags. Some of these felons practice the art of 'ride-by' snatching of ladies' handbags which can result in serious injury to the victim. So ladies: walk against traffic and keep the handbag on the side away from the road or better still, don't carry one.
• Do be wary of the sometimes aggressive long-tail macaques at the botanical gardens.
• Be careful about your surroundings in waters off Batu Feringhi beach, where you may be harmed by unregulated jet skis or other water activities.

Emergency numbers [ edit ]

• Ambulance - Police - Fire , ☏ 999 .  
• Rescue ( Civil Defense ), ☏ 991 .  
• All the above mentioned numbers , ☏ 112 (from mobile phones) .  
• Tourist police , ☏ +60 4 222-1522 .  
• Telegram service , ☏ 100 .  
• International and domestic operator assisted service , ☏ 101 .  
• Directory enquiry service , ☏ 103 .  
• Multilingual international service , ☏ 198 .  

Cope [ edit ]

There are about twenty consulates, all located in George Town .

Go next [ edit ]

• Alor Setar - capital of Kedah state
• Hat Yai - the largest city in southern Thailand, about 4 hours away by road
• Ipoh - capital of Perak state
• Kota Bharu - capital of Kelantan state
• Perhentian Islands - Pulau Perhentian
• Langkawi - A popular tourist destination famous for beach resorts
• Taiping - a town at North of Perak state
• Phuket - at South Thailand
• Medan - at Sumatra, Indonesia. There is no ferry to Medan anymore, since the price of flights to Medan became cheaper than the ferry. You can go to Medan by airplane with several airlines.
• Bangkok - If planning going on into Thailand, your best bet is to hop on the Padang Besar -Bangkok International Express. It's dirt cheap (RM112-Lower Berth), very comfortable, super clean sheets, and blankets laundered after each use) and wide cosy beds. You can, of course, jump off at Surat Thani (if going to the islands of Koh Samui and Phanga) as well as Hua Hin . However, it's not worth your while for short trips such as Hatyai because all tickets are charged at sleeping berth prices and your berth is only readied at Hatyai station stopover.

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A Travel Guide to Penang, Malaysia

All About Malaysia's "Pearl of the Orient"

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Penang's past as a British colonial holding and its present-day status as one of Malaysia 's most prosperous states have made it one of Southeast Asia's most popular tourist stops. Nicknamed "the pearl of the Orient", Penang possesses a multifaceted culture and eclectic cuisine that rewards adventurous travelers.

Located in the northern part of peninsular Malaysia, the island of Penang was first colonized in 1786 by British adventurer Captain Francis Light. Always looking for new opportunities for his employer the British East India Company, Captain Light saw in Penang a magnificent harbor for tea and opium transshipments between China and the rest of the British Empire.

Penang underwent a number of political transformations after Light wrested control of Penang from the local Malay royalty. It was incorporated into the British Straits Settlements (which also included Melaka and Singapore to the south), then became part of the Malayan Union, then finally joined an independent Malaysia in 1957. Yet its long history under the British left an indelible mark: the capital of George Town retains an ineffable Imperial atmosphere that sets it apart from Malaysia's other grand cities.

First Stop: George Town, Penang

The island of Penang covers 115 square miles of real estate, mostly flat with a central hill range topping off at about 2,700 feet above sea level. The state capital of George Town on the northeastern cape serves as Penang's administrative, commercial, and cultural center, and is usually the tourists' first stop on the island.

Georgetown possesses one of Southeast Asia’s finest collections of 19th century and early 20th century buildings, its old shophouses and grand civic buildings serving as the last tangible link to Penang's past as the British Empire's most prosperous trading port in Malaya. Its well-preserved heritage buildings earned George Town recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

• Remaking History: Read about Southeast Asia's Top Ten UNESCO World Heritage sites .

British rule brought with it an influx of immigrants that added to the existing Malay and Peranakan population of the island: the Chinese, Tamil, Arab, British and other migrant communities remade parts of George Town in their respective images.

Chinese clan houses like Khoo Kongsi sprouted up alongside mansions like Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and the present-day Peranakan Mansion, and British landmarks like Fort Cornwallis and the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower solidified the imperial presence.

Best Time to Visit Penang

Penang shares the heat, humidity and heavy rains common in this part of the world. It's close enough to the equator to have only two seasons, a wet season from April to November and a dry season from December to March. (Find out more about weather in Malaysia .)

The peak tourist season in Penang coincides with New Year and Chinese New Year; between December and late January, the near-constant sunshine makes the George Town streets look bright, while the prevailing heat and humidity remains tolerable (the heat is at its worst in February and March).

From April till November, rainfall increases, auguring the arrival of the southwest monsoon. Visitors arriving during monsoon season can look on the bright side: lower temperatures and lower prices overall can make the trip enjoyable in its own way. But traveling during the monsoon season has plenty of downsides, too. More on those here: Traveling in Southeast Asia's Monsoon Season .

Haze. Between March and June, man-made forest-clearing fires in Indonesia (primarily Sumatra and Borneo) carry ash particles into the sky, causing a sickly haze to accumulate over Singapore and Malaysia. The haze may ruin the scenery at best, and be positively hazardous to your health at worst.

Holidays in Penang. With a little foresight, you can schedule your trip to coincide with one of Penang's many festivals. Chinese New Year is the biggest party the island can contrive, but you can also try visiting during Thaipusam, Vesak , or Hungry Ghost Festival .

Expect more inconvenience than usual, though: these festivals bring in plenty of tourists, but may shut down some shops and restaurants (particularly for Chinese New Year, when locals prefer to spend the holidays with their families rather than serving out-of-towners). 

Proceed to the next page to read about Penang's transportation, the range of accommodations on the island (whether you're staying on the cheap or looking for luxury), and all the things you can do while visiting the Pearl of the Orient.

George Town is only the first order of business of any trip to Penang in Malaysia. From your hostel or hotel in Penang, you can have your pick of numerous adventures (we recommend you start with the food). But you have got to get here first.

Going to Penang

The island of Penang is easily reached by multiple land connections and by airplane via the Penang International Airport .

Kuala Lumpur is only 205 miles (331 km) from Penang. Travelers can cross this distance via bus or train, both of which can be booked at Kuala Lumpur Sentral station . Travelers arriving by bus will stop at the Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal , then proceed by taxi or RapidPenang bus to their next stop.

Bangkok is about 712 miles (1147 km) from Penang. Travelers can take the sleeper train from Bangkok; the train stops at Butterworth station on the mainland, next to a ferry station that crosses over to George Town on the island. This route is a popular one for travelers doing a visa run (find out more about getting a Thai visa ).

For a closer look at getting in and around the island, read our articles about transportation to and around Penang , and getting around Georgetown, Penang.

Where to Stay in Penang

Most travelers to Penang find accommodations in George Town. Many of the historic quarter's shophouses and mansions have been repurposed into hotels and hostels. (More here: Hotels in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia.)

Penang's wealth of budget accommodations accounts for its popularity among backpackers. For cheap rooms/beds in Penang, consult our lists of Top Georgetown, Penang Hostels and Budget Hotels in Penang, Malaysia.

The main George Town street of Lebuh Chulia is Penang's main backpacker alley, with plenty of cafes, bars, travel agencies, and yes, hostels and hotels. More on the latter here: Hotels On & Near Lebuh Chulia, George Town, Penang.

Flashpackers are a growing travel segment in Penang. Seeking the conviviality of hostels but all the creature comforts of regular hotels, flashpackers tend to gravitate towards boutique hostels like Syok at Chulia Hostel and Ryokan at Muntri Boutique Hostel.

Things to Do in Penang

In Penang, tourists find old-world cultural appeal from both East and West (concentrated in the northeast of the island around George Town), and examples of natural beauty (everywhere else). What follows is a thumbnail sketch of sights and activities worth checking out when in Penang.

• Explore Penang's riotous food scene. Start with the top Penang food finds lining George Town's pedestrian-friendly grid (more here: where to eat in George Town, Penang ). Local Malaysian street food favorites can be sampled off of streetside stalls after dark (see: the nighttime street food scene at Lebuh Chulia ), a delicious reward for brave diners.
• Go temple-hopping. Penang has long been a multi-confessional society; a proliferation of temples and mosques can be seen within the George Town historic core.
• Hit the beach. Penang's beaches can be found on its northwest coast: Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang welcome travelers looking for watersports activities and a vibrant street shopping scene.
• Be one with the wild. Way outside George Town, parks like the Penang Bird Park, Penang Hill, and the Penang Botanic Gardens give nature-loving travelers a glimpse of the taxonomic riches abundant in Malaysia.
• Go shopping. The British East India Company ships may have gone away, but the traders have remained , dispensing unique items in both traditional markets (like the Chowrasta Bazaar) and modern shopping centers like KOMTAR.

Proceed to this article to explore the above bullet points in minute detail: Things to Do in Penang, Malaysia.

Chinese New Year in Penang, Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Top 11 Things to Do in George Town, Penang

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Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Penang

24 BEST Places to Visit in Penang (2024)

Spread across a strip along the mainland peninsula and a fairly large island, Malaysia’s state of Penang is famous for being one of the world’s premier places for mouth-watering street food. It also boasts an abundance of beautiful architecture, plentiful historic and religious sites, places of natural interest, and beaches.

Due to the state’s spread-out nature, deciding where to visit each day can be tricky. You don’t want to waste time travelling between hotspots only to later discover there were other cool places close to hand.

We’ve done the research so that you don’t miss any of Penang’s highlights. Add these best places to visit in Penang to your itinerary for an epic trip to the island:

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Penang:

These are the best places to visit in penang, faq on the best places to visit in penang, final thoughts on penang’s best places.

George Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town has an abundance of churches and temples, pre-war architecture, and a lively arts and culture scene.

• Admire the colonial architecture of Wisma Kastam.
• Go for a stroll along Gurney Drive.
• Take a graffiti spotting tour through the city.

And now, onto the good stuff … here are the best places to visit in Penang!

Visit Penang with peace of mind that you’re seeing the very best places the state has to offer…

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#1 Monkey Beach

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• Great for swimming!
• Not very crowded
• Inside of an epic national park!
• Go on either a jungle hike or boat

Why it’s awesome: This is one of those tourist attractions you just can’t miss when you visit Penang Island! The secluded beach is located deep inside Penang National Park, which is worth a trip on its own. The best thing about the beach is you can only reach it via hike or boat!

Relax on the sand, swim, or grab some grub at one of the on-site beach shacks. At over 1km long, it’s Penang’s longest stretch of sand.

What to do there : Relax on the sand, take a dip in the water, or even charter a local boat to explore the area. Spot the native Macaque monkeys, and spend the night at the beach campsite to check out sunrise and sunset! The entrance fee is RM50 for foreigners.

#2 See the Amazing Floating Mosque

• A mosque built on stilts!
• Free to enter
• Iconic design
• Gives insight into Islam in Malaysia

Why it’s awesome: The Tanjung Bungah Floating mosque is a stunning architectural marvel that we’d definitely consider a must-see while you’re visiting Penang. Its unique location makes it appear as if it is literally floating – you most likely have never seen another mosque like it.

What to do there : Walk around the grounds and take in the peace and beauty. It’s also not a good idea to visit during prayer times out of respect.

#3 – Chulia Street Night Market

• Huge assortment of street food
• Affordable prices
• Lively and friendly atmosphere
• Terrific photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Chulia Street Night Market is one of the best places in Penang for a wide array of delicious street food—and that’s quite an achievement in a city that’s world-renowned for its incredible street food scene . There are a number of small sit-down eateries as well as an abundance of hawker stalls and basic tables and chairs where you can dine on the streets. Dishes reflect the country’s mixed heritage, with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and local fusion fare all available. You can expect Indian style curries, iconic Penang prawn noodles, and thousands of dishes in between. Prices are reasonable too.

What to do there: Stroll along the lively Chulia Street Night Market watching as vendors cook an assortment of dishes on the spot, the scents of cooking wafting through the air, the sizzling sounds breaking through the chatter, and the sights that are sure to tempt you.

If you’re into food photography this is a terrific place to indulge in your hobby. Of course, it’s also a fantastic place to get your fill of delicious street food. Be sure

#4 – Kek Lok Si Temple

• Striking hilltop temple
• Biggest Buddhist temple in Malaysia
• Major pilgrimage site
• See various cultural practices

Why it’s awesome: The large and detailed Buddhist temple of Kek Lok Si is perched on a high hill overlooking the surroundings. The extensive complex is the nation’s largest Buddhist temple and it attracts mainly devout Buddhists who want to make merit, worship, and pay their respects. The architecture and religious practices reflect different branches of Buddhism.

The ornate temple dates back to the 1890s, built using donations from a number of wealthy Chinese businessmen, and there have been a number of striking additions over the years. Spread over three main zones and with beautiful architecture, fascinating statues, splendid gardens, and terrific views, there’s definitely plenty to appreciate at the important temple.

What to do there: Marvel at the soaring seven-level pagoda adorned with thousands of statues of the Lord Buddha, and notice the blend of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences in its design. Be impressed by the towering 36-metre-tall (120-foot-tall) bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin). Find your Chinese zodiac birth animal among the 12 statues.

Stroll through the pleasant gardens and soak up the pretty views. Watch turtles and fish swimming in the ponds, spend some time in quiet reflection in one of the prayer halls, see devotees performing various religious rituals, buy a range of souvenirs, amulets, and religious memorabilia, and call into the restaurant for a tasty and filling vegetarian meal.

#5 – Pinang Peranakan Museum

• Learn more about Peranakan heritage and culture
• Eye-catching artefacts
• Housed in a historic mansion
• One of Penang’s best museums

Why it’s awesome: Pinang Peranakan Mansion tells the story of the area’s Peranakan (Straits Chinese) past. The building, built in the 1890s, was once the home of a wealthy Chinese businessman, and it has been restored to showcase its former splendour. Rooms are decorated and arranged so as to transport people back in time and the museum is filled with numerous antiques and items from the Peranakan community. The museum is so well curated and the collections so vast that it has received many accolades and been featured in various TV shows.

What to do there: Admire the handsome green building from the outside, noting the blend of Chinese, European, and Malaysian elements. Peranakans maintained their own customs while also adopting those from their new area (the Straits) and later from colonial influences, leading to a unique way of life and culture. Explore the museum’s rooms and courtyards, filled with beautiful details and objects.

You’ll see things like exquisitely carved wood, ceramic floor tiles, decorative room screens, and more than 1,000 gorgeous antiques. See the statue of the mansion’s former owner standing inside the adjacent small shrine.

#6 – Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

• Insane design!
• A UNESCO award winner
• Movies have been shot here!
• Bucket-list experience

Why it’s awesome: The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is no doubt one of the coolest places to see in Malaysia. Nicknamed the Blue Mansion for obvious reasons, it’s also an epic boutique hotel these days. The iconic home once belonged to a 19th Chinese tycoon of the industrialist era. The home eventually went under some major renovations that even earned it a UNESCO award. The property continues to welcome guests and has even appeared in major films, including the mega-hit Crazy Rich Asians.

What to do there: Book a tour for either 11 AM, 2 PM, or 3:30 PM. For the full experience, you can book a luxury stay in one of their rooms.

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#7 – Snake Temple

• Home to many snakes
• Long history
• Surrounded in local legends
• Beautiful architecture

Why it’s awesome: Penang’s Snake Temple was constructed in the early 1800s to honour a Chinese Buddhist monk, Chor Soo Kong. He was known for doing many kind deeds, particularly tending to the sick and assisting snakes. Local lore says that when the temple was built, pit vipers just started to appear there. Today, lots of snakes lounge throughout the temple. Although locals believe that the incense smoke makes the snakes harmless, they have been de-venomed to be on the safe side!

What to do there: Wander around the temple complex and stare in fascination at the numerous snakes who call the religious site home. See snakes draped across the shrines, coiled around statues and columns, hanging from branches, and in almost any place you could think of! Most of the resident snakes are pit vipers, though you’ll also spot a number of other species. Visit the breeding centre and learn more about the slithery and often misunderstood creatures. You can also enjoy the attractive details of the temple.

#8 – Penang National Park

• Rich array of flora and fauna
• Diverse landscapes
• Great outdoor activities
• Youngest national park in Malaysia

Why it’s awesome: Despite being fairly small, covering just 2997 acres (1,213 hectares) of land and sea, Penang National Park boasts a wide assortment of plants and animals and also has diverse terrain within its boundaries. There are several habitats in the park not found elsewhere in the country and it’s one of the nation’s most biodiverse parts. Furthermore, the national park also has historical and archaeological elements and great views.

There are long beaches, mangroves, and wildlife-rich forests, with creatures calling the park home including turtles, otters, dolphins, monkeys, mouse deer, wild boar, and various species of bird. Plants include the delicate orchids, the unusual pitcher plants, sea almonds, bonsai trees, and various herbs.

What to do there: Soak up the splendid vistas and bask on the sandy shores of pretty beaches like Pantai Mas, Pasir Pandak, Teluk Kerachut, Tanjung Ailing, and Teluk Bahang. See the unusual meromictic lake, a lake where the waters don’t mix and the different colours can clearly be seen. Spot various creatures and plants and follow the two long nature trails. Be sure to wear sensible footwear!

Get a bird’s eye view of the forests and beaches from the 15-metre-high (49-foot-high) canopy walkway. Visit other places of interest within the park, such as Muka Head Lighthouse and the old Hokkien cemetery. There are natural swimming pools where you can take a dip and cool down and you’ll find plenty of nice places for a picnic. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also camp within the national park.

#9 – Batu Feringghi

• Popular white-sand beach
• Water-based activities
• Diverse places of interest close to hand
• Lively nightlife

Why it’s awesome: One of the most popular destinations in Penang with Malaysia backpackers , Batu Feringghi boasts a long, sandy beach and offers beautiful views. Previously a quiet village with a long history, today the area has an abundance of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. A pleasant place to watch the sun go down, Batu Feringghi is also known for its cool laid-back night scene, with plenty of bars sitting close to the beach. While you’ll find plenty of ways to spend money if you wish, visiting the beach and enjoying the vibe doesn’t cost a single Ringgit.

What to do there: Sunbathe on the soft sands of Batu Feringghi beach and admire the views of the shimmering emerald waters meeting the horizon. Stay until later on in the day to witness a beautiful sunset over the ocean. Although the waters generally aren’t considered great for swimming there are various water-based activities that you can enjoy, including parasailing, riding on banana boats, jet skiing, and kayaking. Kids and adults alike can have heaps of fun at Wet World Wild, with its many inflatable features. Browse a wide range of goods and feast on street food at the lively Batu Feringghi night market.

#10 – Penang Batik Factory

• Learn more about traditional batik
• Watch artists at work
• Buy beautiful handmade items
• Free guided tours

Why it’s awesome: Penang Batik Factory was set up in 1973 and it shows the skills that go into creating stunning textile art. Artisans can make a living at the small cottage industry and tourists can see exactly how pieces are made, appreciating items a lot more than simply seeing them in a showroom. Each artist has their own specialty. The factory has three sections: a boutique, an art gallery, and a workshop. There are free tours of the facility and you aren’t overly pressured to make a purchase.

What to do there: Watch artists at work in the workshop and see the precision and talent that goes into creating traditional batik designs. See artisans hand drawing patterns, colouring in designs, and using blocks to create imprints on fabrics. Items here are atypical in that they have patterns on both sides of the fabric. Visit the art gallery to admire a wide selection of batik artworks in all sizes and colours. You may even wish to make a special purchase to add something unusual to your home. If you’re more interested in batik clothing call into the boutique, where you’ll find various garments for men, women, and children.

#11 – Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

• Penang’s first Burmese Buddhist temple
• Retreat for Buddhist monks
• Traditional details created by Burmese craftspeople

Why it’s awesome: Founded in the early 1800s, Dhammikarama Burmese Temple is the oldest Burmese temple in Penang. It has strong links to women, having been established on land donated by a wealthy lady and several female trustees. Expanded and altered over the years, the temple was initially constructed from wood and later rebuilt using sturdier materials. It displays typical Burmese features throughout and skilled Burmese artisans were commissioned to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The temple also serves as a monastery, with Buddhist monks living onsite.

What to do there: Walk through the red and golden gateway, complete with large elephant statues and traditional Burmese designs and topped with the umbrella-like spire. Stand in front of the stupa, which is the oldest part of the complex, having been consecrated in the year 1805.

Rest in the shade of the sacred Boddhi tree, see the monk’s living quarters (from outside), and view the large collection of Buddha statues in various postures and detailed murals. Look for interesting statues of mythical creatures too, including the garuda, chinthe, and panca rupa. Enjoy the peaceful and serene ambience and watch as local devotees come here to pray and seek blessings.

#12 – Penang Jewish Cemetery – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Penang

• Peaceful ambience
• Lesser-visited spot
• One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Southeast Asia
• Legacy of a disappearing community

Why it’s awesome: Surrounded by high walls, the quiet Jewish Cemetery is one of the last traces of Penang’s former Jewish community. Even the old synagogue closed down back in the 1970s. The cemetery gates are often kept locked, but people wishing to visit can knock and the custodian will come and let you in.

It is thought that the last local Jew passed away in 2011, his grave the most recent in the lonely cemetery, thus ending Penang’s Jewish community. Neat rows of graves bear witness to the fact that there were once fairly substantial numbers of Jews resident in Penang. The interesting cemetery sees very few visitors.

What to do there: Chat with the cemetery keeper and learn a little bit about Penang’s former Jewish community and hear whispers from yesteryear as you walk through the rows of gravestones. Pay your respects to the deceased and wonder about the now lost local community. See the oldest grave in the burial ground, which dates back to 1835, as well as the newest grave from 2011.

You’ll notice that the memorials are in a typical Middle Eastern style and that most of the inscriptions are in Hebrew. You’re sure to feel as though you’ve stepped away from the tried and tested tourist path and are discovering new insights into Penang’s past.

#13 – Kapitan Keling Mosque – One of the most religious places to see in Penang

• Built by Indian Muslims
• Open to non-Muslims (with permission from officials)

Why it’s awesome: Kapitan Keling Mosque – set in one of George Town’s central areas – is a gorgeous mosque. It was built in the early 19 th century by some of the earliest Indian Muslim immigrants to Penang. Designed in an Indo-Moorish style, it also has Gothic and Roman elements. A golden dome sits atop the pale building with a high minaret alongside. There are typical Islamic details, such as calligraphy of passages from the Islamic holy book (the Quran), floral imagery, geometric patterns, and colourful stained glass.

What to do there: Listen out for the lilting call to prayer, issued five times each day from the minaret by the muezzin calling the faithful. Walk along the sweeping path to reach the main building, complete with its glorious dome, passing elegant archways alongside. Look inside the prayer hall to see ornate prayer rugs scattered across the marble floor, rich traditional designs, and a beautiful chandelier. Do note that you should dress modestly to visit the mosque and will need to get permission to look inside if you are not from the Muslim faith.

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#14 – Butterworth

• Main town on Penang’s peninsula mainland
• Uncrowded compared with more popular places in Penang
• Local vibes
• Varied attractions and activities

Why it’s awesome: While most people see Penang as synonymous with George Town with its UNESCO status, there’s a whole bunch more to explore in the state’s mainland areas too. Butterworth is the main town in mainland Penang and it has a variety of attractions and activities to keep you busy on a day trip. If you’re wondering where to stay in Malaysia to explore Penang but still avoid the tourist life, Butterworth is a fine choice with some of Penangs best Airbnb’s available. Crowds are smaller than on the island and it’s a great place to immerse yourself in local life. The area boasts beaches, beautiful temples, lively markets, and more.

What to do there: Take a walk along the beach or relax at the seaside at hotspots like Pantai Bersih and Bagan Ajam. Get a glimpse of local beliefs at the Taoist temple of the Nine Emperor Gods, one of the town’s biggest places of worship. Snap pictures of the large pagodas, vibrant colours, statues of Chinese deities, and ornate decorative touches.

You can also experience local Indian culture at the lavish Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam Hindu Temple. Butterworth Bird Park is a lovely place for a family outing, home to many avian species from across the globe. Don’t miss the large and lively Apollo Market for street food, fresh produce, and knickknacks.

#15 – Upside Down Museum

• Fun for people of all ages
• Unusual attraction
• Fabulous photo opportunities
• See the world from a different perspective

Why it’s awesome: Penang’s Upside Down Museum is a cool museum where, as the name suggests, everything is upside down. With furnishings and other common items firmly attached to the top of each room, you really can feel like your world has been turned upside down and that you’re walking like Spiderman suctioned to the ceiling. You won’t just find typical rooms of a house here; there’s even a topsy turvy market, café, and others. There are fantastic photo opportunities and it’s an unusual and fun place for both children and adults.

What to do there: Walk through the upside-down bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom, posing for lots of awesome pictures that seem to defy gravity. Members of staff are happy to give you pointers as to how to achieve the coolest and most realistic-looking snaps.

Everything from the beds, cupboards, desks, oven, and kitchen sink are above you, with rooms that look incredibly lifelike … except for being the wrong way round! Discover the turned around market, pose as though you’re walking down the stairs on your hands, play the piano whilst seemingly hovering above it, and have a ball!

#16 – Guar Petai – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Penang!

• Off the beaten track
• Beautiful landscapes
• Former quarry
• Excellent photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Nestled in a sleepy rural village on mainland Penang, Guar Petai is an old and abandoned water-filled quarry. Ponds are filled with sparkling emerald green waters and lots of lush greenery and reddish rust-coloured and sandy rocks add to the enchanting and alluring vistas. A natural splendour, it’s often pretty quiet. A great spot for photography and romantic moments, it is commonly said to resemble Jiuzhaigou in China. Even better, there’s no cost to visit this picturesque place.

What to do there: Climb to the top of the former quarry and soak up the picturesque views, admiring the contrasting colours and the way that the sun glints off the striking green waters. Snap plenty of beautiful pictures of the gorgeous terrain and enjoy the peace and quiet. Walk around the area to find even more great angles for stunning photography and terrific views.

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#17 – Design Village Penang – A great place in Penang if you love to shop!

• Largest mall in Penang
• Beautiful tropical gardens
• Wide range of goods
• Diverse places to eat and drink

Why it’s awesome: Not only is Design Village Penang the biggest mall in Penang but it is also among the largest outlet shopping centres in the entire country. Home to around 150 shops that sell a huge array of goods, you’re almost certain to find anything that you could wish to buy here. The open-concept retail village is spread across stunning tropical gardens. There are plenty of shaded seating areas in the greenery as well as a good choice of cafes and restaurants that cater to diverse tastes.

What to do there: Naturally, the main reason to visit Design Village Penang is to indulge in a spot of retail therapy! Browse in shops like Guess, Coach, Samsonite, Timberland, Pierre Cardin, Gap, Puma, and Rip Curl, treating yourself to new outfits, footwear, home items, beauty products, sportswear, and more. Admire the balance between nature and commerce as you stroll through the lush gardens, and stop to refuel in one of the great eateries.

#18 – Clan Jetties – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Penang

• Floating villages
• Traditional ways of life
• Historic vibe
• Great views

Why it’s awesome: The six Clan Jetties of Penang are old water villages that were built by Chinese groups. Initially a wood yard and later a place where people would load and offload boats, workers began to build small huts along the wooden jetties. More and more of these basic stilted properties were constructed, creating entire small villages of stilt houses over the water.

Each jetty was associated with a specific clan of Chinese immigrants, and several clans still call the jetties home today: the Chew, Tan, Lim, Yeoh, and Lee, plus a mixed clan jetty (Snaeh). In the past, there were even more such jetties stretching along the waterfront. People still live at the jetties today and traditional ways of life prevail.

What to do there: Start with a visit to the Chew Clan Jetty and take a walk along the sturdy planks, passing local homes and stores. Inhale the scents of incense burning at small shrines outside dwellings and call into the small temple that sits over the water. Get a glimpse of a different way of life and appreciate the wooden structures that are simple but cosy and functional.

See small boats bobbing on the waves and soak up the views; the sunset vistas are especially pretty. If you want to experience more of life in the villages, visit some of the area’s other Clan Jetties too. Do remember to act respectfully, keep the noise down, and be courteous with your photography as these are still private dwellings where people live and go about their day-to-day business.

#19 – Dark Mansion

• Glow-in-the-dark scenes
• Interactive art

Why it’s awesome: The Dark Mansion is one of Penang’s quirkier museums. It’s the country’s only 3D glow-in-the-dark museum, open since 2016. Using technology and science to enhance an arty experience, the museum not only has cool 3D paintings that let you appear as though you’re in a variety of scenes but it also has a glowing effect. Visitors can see the art in normal lighting and then in the dark, with special lighting, to appreciate how the picture changes. It’s certainly lots of fun and you’re sure to come away with many amazing photos.

What to do there: Immerse yourself in various scenes while your friends (or a helpful member of staff) snap plenty of pictures of you. Witness the transformation of art under different lighting conditions and play around with different props. Highlights include the magical glow-in-the-dark forest, complete with various creatures, the dazzling scenes of the night sky, and a cool radiant bridge.

Travel back in time and feel a pang of nostalgia as you pass through the time tunnel and marvel at the celebrated Edgar Muller piece called Fire and Water, which is the biggest anamorphic glow-in-the-dark image in the world.

#20 – Sri Mahamariamman Temple

• Penang’s oldest Hindu temple
• Eye-catching colours and details
• Strong sense of spirituality
• Home to many pigeons

Why it’s awesome: The melting pot of culture is just one of the many good reasons to travel to Malaysia . From Islam to Buddhism to (Tamil) Hindu, bring your shoulder covering, because we’re going temple hunting!

Having started life as a simple shrine back in the early 1800s, the present temple building of Penang’s Sri Mahamariamman Temple was constructed in 1833. Built by early Tamil Indian migrants, it is the oldest Hindu temple in the state. Colourful with many ornate features, it’s a fabulous place to admire architectural beauty and religious art. The ambience is simultaneously energetic and peaceful, with many devotees coming here to perform prayers and religious rituals each day.

What to do there: Make sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds. Admire the vibrant gopurum (entrance tower) with its many intricate carvings of Hindu deities, animals, flowers, symbols, and other features. Standing at almost 24 metres (78 feet) tall, it has four tiers and is meant to represent Mount Meru, which is said to be the mountain that supports the heavens in Hindu mythology.

You’ll notice that many pigeons have set up home in the tower too. Appreciate the many fine details within the complex and see the large statue of Lord Subramaniam inside the domed main building. Soak up the spiritual air and visit the nearby Indian stores and restaurants.

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#21 – Penang State Museum and Art Gallery

• Discover local history, heritage, and culture
• See impressive artworks
• Home to a large collection of artefacts
• Housed in a gorgeous building

Why it’s awesome: Penang State Museum and Art Gallery is housed within a striking architectural gem that was once home to Penang Free School. It became a museum in the mid-1960s. It contains both an awesome art gallery and an informative museum with lots of artefacts and displays. Items include state and national treasures and there are constantly changing art exhibits in addition to the impressive permanent collections. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in delving deeper into the area’s past and culture.

What to do there: Take time to appreciate the diverse collections in the museums, seeing items such as furnishings, traditional clothes, weapons, old transportation methods, tools, ceramics, silverware, and jewellery. The hand-written Quran is especially interesting.

There’s good information as to the significance of the diverse exhibits and you can learn more about Penang’s multi-ethnic, multi-racial, and multi-cultural community. In the art gallery you’ll find eight treasured paintings by Captain Robert Smith as well as plenty of other works. Travel back in time as you see old black and white photographs of Penang in times gone by. You can buy a selection of merchandise too.

#22 – St. Anne’s Church

• Off-the-beaten-track religious building
• Serene and spiritual ambience
• Old and new places of worship side by side
• Important pilgrimage site

Why it’s awesome: Located in Bukit Mertajam on Penang’s mainland peninsula, St. Anne’s Church is a lesser-visited spot with a long history and steeped in religious significance. While the yearly ten-day Feast of St. Anne celebrations are lively, drawing devotees from around the nation and beyond, the church is quiet and tranquil at other times of the year.

The original chapel was built in 1846, with a later church (now known as the Shrine of St. Anne) constructed in 1888. The nearby 2002-built church is a modern juxtaposition. It’s one of the country’s biggest Christian churches and it features traditional Malay designs. There are ancient megaliths close by. An active place of worship, mass is held in several languages depending on the day of the week.

What to do there: Spend some quiet moments of reflection and contemplation at the old St. Anne’s Shrine and appreciate the beautiful stained glass above the altar. See the large statue of St. Anne (Mary’s mother) with the Virgin Mary as a child in front of the newer church, pray at the Catholic Stations of the Cross, and view the Cherok Tokun Relics. Within the sanctuary’s grounds, the Cherok Tokun Relics are ancient rock inscriptions on a granite megalith. Enjoy the serene air and soak up the religious atmosphere.

#23 – Upper Penang Road

• Various bars, karaoke spots, and nightclubs
• Wide choice of places to eat
• Energetic atmosphere
• Blend of architectural styles

Why it’s awesome: Upper Penang Road, located in George Town, is the epicentre of Penang’s nightlife scene . During the day there are many shops to browse in and the street also hosts the monthly Little Penang Street Market. Held on the last Sunday of each month, stalls offer everything from crafts and clothing to souvenirs and food, and there is often live entertainment to add to the carnival-like air.

Heritage buildings are interspersed with modern day street art. At night time the street attracts many revellers, including both locals and tourists. There are plenty of places to enjoy dinner before starting your night out on the tiles, with street food stalls aplenty and sit-down restaurants. Bars and nightclubs keep people happy until the wee small hours. There are some of Penang’s best hostels here if you decide to base yourself in this area!

What to do there: Walk along the historic street in the daytime to see the different architectural styles and peer into the shops and boutiques. Enjoy a romantic meal in the Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant, savouring delicious cuisine as you soak up the panoramic views, or feast on street food, visit another high-class eatery, and discover many local specialities.

Mingle with the party-loving crowds in the vibrant bars and maybe hit up a karaoke joint to warble your favourite songs. Visit a roadside bar to sit outside on the pavement and watch the world go by. Hop between the various bars and clubs and bust out your best moves on the dancefloor, accompanied by neon lighting and banging tunes.

#24 – Fort Cornwallis

• Malaysia’s longest standing fortress
• Unusual lighthouse
• Interesting displays

Why it’s awesome: The star-shaped Fort Cornwallis was built in the early 1800s on the site of an earlier wooden fort. It was constructed by the British East India Company to protect the island, though it never saw any attacks. Today listed as an Ancient Monument and Historic Site, the fort provides terrific views over the sea. Old cannons still stand to attention through the grounds and there are various displays and buildings throughout the large park within the walls.

What to do there: Walk around the fortress’s outer walls and soak up the splendid vistas. Inside, see the proud statue of Captain Francis Light near the entrance and the many historic cannons that were intended to keep the island safe. Don’t miss the cannon called Seri Rambai—locals see this piece of artillery as a symbol of fertility, and you’ll likely notice offerings

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Find out what people want to know about Penang’s attractions.

What are some of the best places in Penang for couples?

Have a romantic meal at the Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant on Upper Penang Road and take in views of George Town below.

What are the best places to visit in Penang at night?

Hit up the Chulia Street Night Market for some of the incredible local street food that Penang is famous for!

What are some great free things to do in Penang?

You’ve just got to explore the fun and interactive murals that cover the crumbling walls of the city, search them out as you wander the streets!

What are the most unique places to visit in Penang?

If you’re feeling brave then head to Snake Temple where you guessed it, half the local visitors are of the scaly variety!

Penang has myriad places of worship that reflect the area’s multi-cultural and multi-ethnic make-up; the Goddess of Mercy Temple, St. George’s Church, Admiral Zheng He Footprint Temple, and the Thai temple of Wat Chayamangkalaram are just a few more to add to your list. Other top museums to visit include the Toy Museum, War Museum, Wonderfood Museum, Chocolate Museum, Penang Tunnel Museum, and Sun Yat-Sen Museum. There’s definitely lots of diversity!

Wander through the Tropical Spice Garden and take kids to Penang Butterfly Farm. Feast your eyes on the ornate Chinese clan building of Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi. Feel a thrill as you walk across the towering Rainbow Skywalk, have an immersive experience at Penang 3D Trick Art Museum, climb Penang Hill (or take the impressive Penang Hill funicular), take a day trip to Jerejak Island, and discover the many species of flora in the Penang Botanical Gardens.

With lots of heritage buildings and places of worship, delectable street food, beaches, museums to suit all interests, family-friendly attractions, places of natural interest, and plenty of ways to find nocturnal fun, make sure to check off these best places to visit in Penang on your next visit to the Malaysian gem.

Updated April 2023

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Your ultimate guide to exploring Penang

Launched in May this year, On Penang will be the go-to online resource for your visit to the beautiful island of Penang in Malaysia. With its unique fusion of cultures, people, religions, cuisine and nature, Penang has long been a favourite for travellers from Malaysia, Southeast Asia and beyond.

Whether you’re visiting as a family, backpacker, retired couple, or sole traveller, there’s something for everyone on Penang and you’re in the right place to start planning your trip.

Start your Penang travel research here with these top posts:

Things to do in Penang

Wondering what to do in Penang? Whether you’re seeking adventure, or need to relax and unwind, here we provide a detailed guide to all the things to do in Penang, so that you can get the most out of your visit. From heritage landmarks to epic viewpoints, we’ve got you covered.

Top 10 tips for visiting Penang

We know that you will want to make the most out of your visit to Penang and it’s worthwhile noting the advice of travellers to Penang before you. We’ve travelled to Penang multiple times (our first visit was back in 2007) and now we live here. So here we share our top 10 tips for visiting Penang.

One day Penang itinerary

For such a small patch of land, Penang Island squeezes in enough sights and activities to keep you occupied for a lifetime. So what’s the best approach to visiting Penang if you only have one day to spare?

Best hotels in Penang

For those seeking a sprinkling of luxury and convenience for their visit, here we feature the best hotels in Penang. Especially if it’s your first visit and you’re wondering where to stay in Penang, a hotel or resort provides a calm and relaxing oasis away from the hustle and bustle

How to get around Penang

Penang an easy island to get around, helped by the fact that most of the sights are concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the island. This post details how to get around Penang as well as the easiest way.

A brief history of Penang

Penang’s location on the northwest coast of Malaysia, at the intersection of numerous cultures, countries, and trade routes, has always shaped its history. From a small island integral to regional trade, a strategic European possession to be fought over, to its recent history as a post-independence Malaysian success story, Penang’s fortunes have constantly changed throughout the years.

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The First-Timer’s George Town, Penang Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Penang travel guide hasn’t been updated in 2024. Prices and travel guidelines may no longer be accurate so it’s important that you verify any information before proceeding.

George Town in Penang is one of my favorite cities in Southeast Asia. It has a unique blend of architecture, street art, and hawker food that I haven’t seen anywhere else in the region.

Whenever you visit a new city, you typically go from one attraction to the next but here, it feels like the entire city IS the attraction. You can get lost in its maze of heritage houses without any real agenda and still feel like you had an eventful day.

We had often heard Penang described as the street food capital of Malaysia so it was only a matter of time before we travel-ate our way here. The food is reason enough to go, but if you appreciate interesting architecture and urban art, especially from behind a lens, then you’re going to LOVE George Town and Penang.

VISIT PENANG QUICK LINKS

This Penang travel guide is long and detailed. For your convenience, I’ve compiled links to hotels, tours, and other services here.

Top-rated hotels in George Town

• Luxury: Macalister Mansion
• Midrange: Campbell House
• Budget: Dou Houz Georgetown
• Sightseeing Tour: Georgetown Heritage Tour
• Street Food Tour: Private Half Day Penang Tasty Local Street Food Tour
• Food and Dining: Restaurant Deals in Penang

OTHER SERVICES

• Visa Services
• Travel Insurance with COVID cover (WFFF readers get 5% off )
• Airport Transfer
• Wifi and Sim Cards / eSIM

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GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Penang travel restrictions.

Because of the current global situation, travel guidelines have been changing regularly. Our friends at Booking.com have created a website that contains detailed information on travel restrictions around the globe.

Before planning a trip to Penang, be sure to check Booking.com for information on travel restrictions to Malaysia. If you do decide to visit Penang, then you may want to seriously consider getting travel insurance with COVID coverage.

MALAYSIA VISA

Depending on what type of passport you carry, you may need to acquire a visa and other travel documents before visiting Penang and Malaysia. Check out iVisa.com to learn about the requirements and to apply for a visa (if necessary).

PENANG AT A GLANCE

Penang is an island state off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It’s comprised of two sections – Penang Island, where the capital city of George Town is located, and Seberang Perai, an area on the mainland formerly known as Province Wellesley. Though the Seberang Perai half is twice as large, the majority of travelers spend most of their time on Penang Island.

When people think of Penang, one of the first things that come to mind is George Town and its heritage houses. George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the biggest collection of pre-Second World War houses and shophouses in Southeast Asia.

Like Melaka to the south, George Town’s strategic location along the Straits of Malacca made it an important trading hub for Europe, the Middle East, India, and China for over 500 years. This centuries-long cultural exchange between east and west has endowed the city with a distinct multicultural heritage that’s unlike anywhere else in East and Southeast Asia.

BEST TIME TO VISIT PENANG

Like many Southeast Asian destinations, Penang is generally hot and humid year-round with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (82.4°F). It’s hottest around early March with temperatures reaching 32°C (89.6°F). In terms of rain, Penang’s wettest months are September and October, followed by April, May, and November.

Weather-wise, December to early February is considered the best time to go. However, this is also high season so expect the most number of tourists with the highest prices for accommodations. If you prefer low season and don’t mind braving a little rain, then June to August would be a good time as well.

We went in late June and it didn’t rain once. It was nice and sunny everyday, though the heat in the early afternoon did get a little much.

DEC-FEB: As described, this is the best time to visit Penang in terms of the weather. It doesn’t get much cooler but it’s the driest time of the year.

MAR-MAY: This is a quieter time to visit Penang though it does get rainier in April and May.

JUN-AUG: If you don’t like crowds and can stand a little rain, then this is probably the best time to go to Penang. We went in late June and the weather was pleasant. It did get hot in the early afternoon but that’s how Penang is throughout the year.

SEPT-NOV: This is the wettest time of the year in Penang so you may want to avoid these months if you don’t like too much heat and humidity.

Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Penang

To help you better understand the weather in Penang , I’ve included average temperature and annual rainfall graphs below. Suggested months to visit are indicated in orange.

Average Temperature

Annual Rainfall

TRAVELING TO PENANG

Unless you’re already in Malaysia, then most international visitors to Penang will be arriving by plane. There are several ways to get to your hotel in George Town which is about 30-40 minutes from Penang International Airport. You can check the Penang Airport website for more information on transfers.

BY BUS: If you’re on a budget, then the cheapest way to get to George Town from the airport is by bus. Rapid Penang Bus lines 401, 401A, and 401E operate between the airport and George Town. The fare is around RM 3 each way so be sure to have small bills handy since the driver can’t give you change. Buses run every 30 minutes and take about an hour to get you to the main bus terminals at KOMTAR or the jetty. From there you can either take a taxi or Grab, or walk to your hotel.

BY TAXI / GRAB: The fastest way to get to George Town from the airport is by taxi or Grab. The terminal stand is just outside the arrival area and a taxi to George Town will run you around RM 40. If you have a wifi connection, then you can also use Grab. I heard taxi operators in Penang are territorial and don’t like these ride-sharing services so you’ll need to go upstairs and wait outside the departure terminal for your Grab car. That’s what we did.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: This is the most comfortable option but also the most expensive. If you’d like to arrange for a private transfer from the airport to your hotel, then you can book it through Klook .

We flew to Penang but there are other ways to get there depending on where you are. I suggest checking Bookaway to find route options available to you. You can click on the link or use the widget below.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY

The unit of currency in Penang is the Malaysian Ringgit (RM) .

The best places to exchange currency in Penang are at licensed money changers. If you’re arriving by plane, then you can change a small amount at the airport to get you into George Town. There’s a currency exchange booth on the second floor in the departure terminal. We arrived after 9PM and it was still open.

Once you get into town, you can change a larger amount at one of the currency exchange offices around Komtar shopping mall and bus terminal . You’ll also find a few along Chulia, Pitt, and Beach Streets . Rates at banks or hotels typically aren’t as favorable.

You can also use your ATM card to withdraw RM. The exchange rates are pretty good. For some reason though, I had trouble with several Maybank machines both at the airport and in George Town. My card kept getting rejected. I notified my bank before leaving that we were going on a trip so that wasn’t the issue.

I only got it to work at this one ATM machine outside a 7-Eleven along Penang Road. I don’t know the reason for the trouble so be sure to bring some cash or credit cards in the event that your ATM card doesn’t work.

NOTE: Some ATMs may ask if you’d like to proceed “with or without conversion”. Always proceed WITHOUT conversion. Otherwise, you’ll be authorizing the foreign bank to do the conversion for you, usually at terrible rates. According to this article, the difference in rates can be as high as 10% .

BEST AREAS TO STAY ON PENANG ISLAND

This Penang travel guide focuses mainly on George Town but I’ve included other areas to stay in as well in case you’d like to explore more of Penang Island.

Listed below are some of the most convenient areas to stay on Penang Island, along with a color-coded map to help you better understand where each of these areas are. Click on the link for a live version of the map. (Please note that marked areas are approximations only)

BLUE – George Town RED – Batu Feringghi GREEN – Tanjung Bungah ORANGE – Bayan Lepas

I’ll provide targeted links under each description but you can book accommodations in Penang through Booking.com or Agoda .

GEORGE TOWN

Unless you want to lounge on the beach, then George Town is the best place for you to stay in Penang. It’s the capital city of Penang and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to the island’s famed heritage houses and street art, not to mention some of the island’s best hawker stalls and street food.

Because of the city’s large collection of pre-war buildings, many of the guesthouses in George Town are brimming with character. We stayed on Muntri Street near Love Lane where many of the heritage houses have been turned into cute boutique hostels. They were so interesting I wanted to go inside every guesthouse to take pictures!

Ryokan Muntri, which is just a block away from the main thoroughfare of Chulia Street and its night hawker market, is an excellent choice. They offer both private rooms and dorm room beds.

You can book at room at Ryokan Muntri on Booking.com or Agoda . If you don’t think Ryokan Muntri is the right place for you, then you can check out these links for alternative listings in George Town: Booking.com | Agoda .

Check out some of the top-rated hotels in George Town:

BATU FERINGGHI

Batu Feringghi is considered the second most popular place to stay in Penang. It’s in the northernmost part of the island and is home to a long stretch of white sandy beach with plenty of hotels, dining options, and a vibrant nightlife.

If you’re into water sports and want to spend most of your time on the beach, then Batu Feringghi is a good place to consider. Check these sites for a list of accommodations in Batu Feringghi: Booking.com | Agoda .

Listed below are some of the most recommended hotels in Batu Feringghi:

• Luxury: Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang
• Midrange: Jean CleanComfy Apt Near Beach
• Budget: Tony’s Guesthouse at Teluk Bahang

TANJUNG BUNGAH

Tanjung Bungah is another place to consider if you enjoy water sports and lounging around on the beach. It’s the area between George Town and Batu Feringghi in the northern part of the island. Tanjung Bungah is said to be quieter than Batu Feringghi, so you may want to stay here if a calmer beach atmosphere is what you’re after. Check these sites for a list of accommodations in Tanjung Bungah: Booking.com | Agoda .

Here are some of the top-rated hotels in Tanjungn Bungah:

• Luxury: Little Heaven by Sky Hive, A Beach Front Bungalow
• Midrange: Paradise by the Sea 0806
• Budget: J Beach Suites At Rainbow Paradise

BAYAN LEPAS

Penang International Airport is located in the town of Bayan Lepas. It’s located in the southern part of the island so it’s a little far from George Town and the other two areas which are in the north.

Bayan Lepas is home to many popular attractions like the Snake Temple, Penang War Museum, and Penang Aquarium, so if you’ve already visited George Town and are keen on exploring the southern half of the island, then Bayan Lepas is a good place to stay. Check these sites for a list of accommodations in Bayan Lepas: Booking.com | Agoda .

Here are some of the most recommended hotels in Bayan Lepas:

• Luxury: Lexis Suites Penang
• Midrange: Olive Tree Hotel Penang
• Budget: M Qube Hotel

You can also book hotels and homestays in Penang using the handy map below.

THINGS TO DO IN PENANG

1. go street art hunting in george town.

The entire city of George Town has become a gallery for street art in recent years. Done in different sizes, styles, media, and subject matter, it’s interesting to see all the art juxtaposed against the canvas of pre-war heritage houses.

The artworks are scattered throughout the city — some tucked away in alleys and behind buildings — so finding and photographing as many as you can makes for a fun treasure hunt. Check out my post on George Town’s street art for more pictures and information.

Penang is hot, especially early in the afternoon, so a more comfortable way of looking for street art is by hiring a trishaw or cycle rickshaw. Just ask the driver to take you to all the major mural sights if you don’t feel like looking for them yourself. There are many trishaws in George Town so you can hire one on the spot.

2. Explore the Heritage Houses of George Town

As described, George Town is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage City and home to the largest collection of pre-war buildings in Southeast Asia. Walking around town, you’d think you were in a different era if it weren’t for the cars!

Many of the heritage houses are dilapidated and in need of restoration but it’s a gorgeous city nonetheless and fun to get lost in. If you enjoy doing street photography, then you’ll love it here. Check out my post on George Town’s heritage houses for more pictures and information.

As described above, the afternoon heat in Penang can be oppressive so you may want to hire a trishaw to take you around town. It’s the easiest way of seeing the city’s most interesting heritage houses and attractions.

3. Visit Pinang Piranakan Mansion

This mint green mansion on Church Street is one of the best-preserved examples of affluent Peranakan living in Penang. It was once the home of Chung Keng Kwee, a self-made tin mining magnate who became the richest man in Penang in the late 19th century.

If you were to visit just one heritage house museum in George Town, then it should probably be this one. Check out my post on George Town’s museums for more pictures and information. It covers other museums included in this Penang travel guide as well.

It’s easy enough to visit Pinang Piranakan Mansion on your own, but if you’d like to learn more about its history, then you can go on a guided tour. Klook’s George Town heritage tour will take you to several historical sights in George Town, including Pinang Piranakan Mansion.

Estimated Time to Spend: About 30 mins – 1 hr Admission: RM 25

4. Explore Chew Jetty

This place is interesting. Chew Jetty is an example of a clan jetty. A clan jetty is a Chinese waterfront settlement comprised of wooden houses built on stilts.

They were built more than a century ago by poor Chinese immigrants who moved to Penang from Fujian province and worked near the port. They couldn’t afford to live on the mainland so they built their homes over water.

This one is called Chew Jetty because it’s inhabited by members of the Chew clan, who still live here. It’s the largest of six surviving clan jetties in Penang today.

Estimated Time to Spend: About 30 mins Admission: FREE

5. Check Out the Khoo Kongsi Clan House

Khoo Kongsi is the grandest clan temple in Penang one of George Town’s most visited attractions. A kongsi is a clan house so Khoo Kongsi refers to the clan house of the Khoo family. The Khoos were among the wealthiest Chinese traders in Penang and built this temple in 1906 at the height of their wealth and eminence.

If you’re interested in learning more about Khoo Kongsi, then you can visit on a guided tour. It’s one of the stops on the aforementioned George Town heritage tour . It’s also one of the stops on these trishaw tours from Klook . Riding around in a trishaw may be one of the most fun ways of seeing George Town’s top historical attractions.

Estimated Time to Spend: About 30 mins – 1 hr Admission: RM 10

6. Visit Sun Yat-sen Museum – Temporarily Closed (May 2022)

This museum was once the home of Dr. Sun Yat-sen who was the first president and founding father of the Republic of China. It’s the first stop on the Sun Yat-sen Heritage Trail which links more than a dozen heritage sites associated with Sun Yat-sen and his supporters.

The Sun Yat-sen Museum is small so you can quickly breeze through it in less than 30 minutes.

Estimated Time to Spend: About 30 mins Admission: RM 5

7. Take a Cooking Class

Cooking classes are fun, even when you have limited experience in the kitchen like me. We’ve taken cooking classes in Vietnam , Indonesia , Thailand , Japan , Mexico, and Morocco and they’ve all been a blast. It’s just a fun, hands-on way of getting to know the local cuisine.

Penang is famous for its street food so this is a great place to take a cooking class. I suggest searching for one on Cookly. They’re a travel booking platform that focuses solely on cooking classes so in my opinion, they’re the single best resource for one-day cooking classes around the world. They don’t have that many in Penang yet but I expect them to add more soon. Check out their list of available cooking classes in Penang .

Photo by kaykhoon via Shutterstock

DAY TRIPS FROM GEORGE TOWN

1. kek lok si temple.

We aren’t avid temple-goers but Kek Lok Si is one of the biggest and most important Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. It makes for a good day trip from George Town if you enjoy visiting temples. If you fly for food like we do, then it should definitely be on your itinerary. Two of Penang’s most legendary hawker stalls — Sister Curry Mee and Air Itam Asam Laksa — are located in this area.

Check out my post on Kek Lok Si Temple for more pictures and information. If you’d like to visit the temple on a guided tour, then you can do so through Klook. Click on the link to book a Kek Lok Si Temple tour through Klook.

Estimated Time to Spend: Around 2-3 hrs Admission: FREE (Temple) / RM 2 (Pagoda) / RM 3 (Inclined lift each way)

2. Tropical Spice Garden

We were planning on visiting this place but decided against it in the end. Located in Batu Feringghi, Tropical Spice Garden is an eight-acre oasis with over 500 different species of tropical flora.

The price of admission comes with an audio guide so you’re free to wander along the different trails and learn about local spices and medicinal plants. There’s a cooking school and restaurant there as well. You can check the Tropical Spice garden website for more information.

Admission to Tropical Spice Garden is RM 28 per person, but you may get a discount if you purchase it in advance through Klook. Follow the link for more information and to buy Tropical Spice Garden tickets through Klook.

Photo by Attila JANDI via Shutterstock

Estimated Time to Spend: At least half a day Admission: RM 28

MALAYSIAN FOOD GUIDE

If you’d like to try some of the best dishes in Malaysian cuisine, then be sure to check out our Malaysian food guide for a list of 35 must-try dishes in Malaysia.

MALAYSIAN DESSERTS

If you have a sweet tooth, then you’ll definitely want to check out our list of the most delicious Malaysian desserts .

WHERE TO EAT IN PENANG

We went to Penang primarily to eat, but we didn’t want to eat at just any old hawker stall. In a place with Penang’s street food cred, we wanted to find the best, so I consulted trusted Malaysian and Singaporean blogs to find out exactly what dishes we should eat and more importantly, where we should try them. This list of Penang food guide is what I came up with.

Many of the hawker stalls mentioned in this list have been run by the same family for generations. If you fly for food like we do, then I suggest going to as many of them as you can.

Borrowing a line from KF Seetoh, these are “the most desperately delicious” dishes we had in Penang. Not everyone has the luxury to visit all 15 places on our list so if you don’t have the time (or stomach space), then these are the ones you shouldn’t miss.

These 7 dishes are “die die must try” and something we would look for on every return trip to Penang. To help you narrow your choices down even more, I’ve ranked them in order starting with our mutual favorite.

1. Koay Teow Th’ng @ Pitt Street Koay Teow Th’ng (Carnarvon Street)

This bowl of fish ball noodle soup was hands down our favorite thing to eat in Penang. We both agreed it was number one. I wasn’t expecting a colorless dish like this to be anything special but it was.

Koay teow th’ng is a dish made with flat rice noodles served in a clear soup broth topped with fish balls, pork slices, chicken, browned garlic bits, and chopped scallions. This version served at Pitt Street Koay Teow Th’ng on Carnarvon Street is considered by many locals to be the best, and I can understand why. It’s so damn good. We had another bowl from a different hawker stall and the difference was like night and day.

What We Paid: Around RM 7.50 with drinks

2. Curry Mee @ Sister Curry Mee

Along with the koay teow th’ng above, this bowl of curry mee from Sister Curry Mee was one of my two favorite dishes in Penang. Spicy and redolent with flavor and texture, it’s to die for.

Known as curry laksa in Singapore, curry mee is a dish made with egg noodles in a coconut-based curry soup that’s typically filled with bean curd puffs, bean sprouts, pig’s blood curd, cuttlefish, shrimp, and cockles.

This particular bowl of curry mee was made by two legendary sister at a roadside stall by the foothills of Kek Lok Si Temple. They’ve been serving these bowls of curry mee for over 70 years now. With all that practice, no wonder it’s so good!

What We Paid: Around RM 5 per bowl

3. Tiger Char Koay Teow @ Ping Hooi Coffee Shop

Char Koay Teow is considered by many to be Penang’s most iconic street food, and Ping Hooi Coffee Shop has been serving some of the island’s best for three generations now.

Char koay teow literally means “stir-fried rice cake strips”, and it consists of flat rice noodles stir-fried in pork fat with light and dark soy sauce, chili, belachan (fermented shrimp paste), blood cockles, prawns, chopped Chinese chives, bean sprouts, and egg.

Ping Hooi calls their version “Tiger Char Koay Teow”. It’s made with duck eggs and contains some of the juiciest, most succulent prawn I’ve ever tasted. It’s sooo good and located just a few doors down from Pitt Street Koay Teow Th’ng @ Carnarvon Street.

What We Paid: Around RM 10 with drinks

4. Duck Koay Chap @ Restoran Kimberly

This was the second of Ren’s two favorite dishes in Penang. It’s a hearty dish brimming with all kinds of duck and pork goodness.

Koay chap is a Teochew noodle soup made with flat wide rice noodle rolls served in a dark soy sauce broth and filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, duck, offal, fishcakes, vegetables, and hard-boiled egg.

So many components go into one bowl of duck koay chap and Restoran Kimberly has been preparing all the ingredients in-house for the past 30 years. They take no shortcuts which is why their version is so tasty.

Restoran Kimberly only opens at night around 6:30PM so be sure to come early because the line can get pretty long. Check out my post on Restoran Kimberly for more pictures and information.

What We Paid: Around RM 8 per bowl

5. Teochew Chendol @ Lebuh Keng Kwee

I’m not a dessert person but I fell in love with this teochew chendol. It’s a popular dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, jelly noodles, and palm sugar, and topped with other ingredients like red beans, glutinous rice, grass jelly, and creamed corn. Milky with bursts of caramel flavor, it’s a godsend on a hot Penang day!

Conveniently, two of Penang’s best Teochew chendol vendors are located directly opposite each other in the same alley. Penangites are divided as to who’s chendol is better, so we did what any reasonable glutton would do and tried both.

What We Paid: Around RM 2.50 per bowl

6. Asam Laksa @ Air Itam Asam Laksa

Asam laksa is one of the island’s signature dishes and the reason why curry laksa is referred to as curry mee in Penang. It’s made with tamarind so it’s more sour than curry laksas. It’s made with mackerel, lemongrass, galangal, and chili, and garnished with mint, pineapple, onion, a sweet prawn paste, and torched ginger flower.

Air Itam Asam Laksa, by the foothills of Kek Lok Si Temple and just a short walk from Sister Curry Mee, has been serving some of Penang’s best asam laksa for over 30 years. Being such an important dish, you can’t visit Penang without trying this.

What We Paid: Around RM 4.50 per bowl

7. Lok Lok @ Gerai Gerai Padang Brown

This was the most fun meal we had in Penang. It basically combines the concept of a hot pot and a kaiten-zushi restaurant.

Lok lok is a type of communal steamboat wherein skewered sticks of food are placed around a central pot of boiling water. A variety of ingredients are typically offered like seafood, meatballs, fish cakes, dumplings, and offal. Diners just grab whatever they want and dunk it in the pot to cook!

Sticks are labeled with different colors to indicate price, all of which are totaled at the end of your meal. We had a seafood feast but our bill for two came out to just RM 17.70. Lok lok rules!

There are many places in Penang that offer lok lok but we had it at Gerai Gerai Padang Brown. Check out my post on Lok Lok at Gerai Gerai Padang Brown for more pictures and information.

What We Paid: Around RM 10-15 per person

We already had our hearts set on the places mentioned above so we didn’t go to Joo Hooi Cafe, but you may want to check it out as well. It’s highly recommended by many blogs and is conveniently located right next to Lebuh Keng Kwee where the Teochew chendol stalls are.

POINTS OF INTEREST IN PENANG

I made the map below to give you a better sense of where everything is. Most of the places recommended in this guide are pinned on this map. Click on the link for a live version of the map.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN PENANG

George Town isn’t that big so it’s possible to make your way between attractions and hawker stalls on foot. With that said, Penang does get hot, especially around noon, so you may want to consider other means of transportation as well.

Rental bicycles and trishaws are popular forms of transport around George Town. Trishaw drivers will take you on a tour around the city — showing you its street art, heritage houses, and other points of interest — for around RM 50 an hour.

If your destination is farther away, then you can use Grab. We used Grab a few times and it was pretty cheap, just RM 5-10 around the city. If you don’t have a smartphone or wifi connectivity, then you can always take a taxi.

Buses are the most inexpensive way to travel longer distances in Penang. We used it once to go from the KOMTAR bus terminal in George Town to Kek Lok Si Temple. The ride was about half an hour each way and the fare was just RM 2 (at the time).

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY / PENANG ITINERARY

We stayed 3 full days in Penang and this gave us enough time to visit many of its major attractions. We were able to cram over 15 hawker stalls / eateries in those 3 days and see much of its street art.

We stayed mainly in George Town but there’s more to the island than that like beaches and natural parks so staying longer wouldn’t be a bad idea. Here’s a sample 3-day itinerary to help you plan your trip. If all you’re interested in is George Town, then you could realistically do it in just 2 days.

PENANG TRAVEL TIPS

1. plan your trip with sygic travel.

I’ve been using this free trip planning app to come up with all our itineraries since 2014. It just makes it so much easier. It allows me to visualize all the places we want to go to on a map so I can easily group things together by day. That way I can come up with the most efficient itinerary possible. Check out my full post on the Sygic Travel app for more information.

DOWNLOAD: iOS / Android

2. Rent a Pocket Wifi Device

Having a steady connection to the internet is a must when traveling these days. It makes the trip less stressful and more enjoyable. You’ll need it to do research, convert currencies, use ride-sharing apps, navigate with GPS, etc. We never go anywhere now without renting a pocket wifi device first.

We always rent pocket wifi devices but getting a sim card is fine too. It’s actually cheaper. If you’ll be traveling to Penang via Kuala Lumpur , then you can rent a 4G pocket wifi device or buy a 4G sim card through Klook. You can pick them up at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

3. Go to the Hawker Stalls Early!

If you check out our Penang food guide, then you’ll find operating hours for every stall we recommend. However, just because a hawker stall advertises opening hours until 3PM doesn’t mean they’ll have food until 3PM!

Most of the eateries in our guide are hugely popular so it isn’t uncommon for them to run out of food early. If you can, then I suggest going as early as possible to make sure there’s still food when you get there. Otherwise, you’ll need to go back the following day.

4. Say “Yes” to the Drink

I’m not sure how it works exactly, but every hawker stall we went to seemed to be part of some restaurant space or hawker centre. Soon as you sit down, someone will come up to you asking if you’d like a drink. We said yes all but once.

The one time we said no we got nasty looks so I think it’s pretty much obligatory in Penang to get a drink if you sit and eat in that space. It’s a good idea to do so anyway since many places offer just one kind of drink which we found goes very well with that hawker stall’s specialty. Drinks are cheap too so don’t worry about cost.

5. Get Travel Insurance

To get or not to get travel insurance? In our case, we’ll get it if we plan on doing physical things like skiing or ATV riding. But all we’ll be doing is traveleating for a couple of days in a city like Seoul or Osaka , then we probably won’t get it. It depends on the trip so it’s really up to you.

We buy travel insurance from SafetyWing or Heymondo. They’re travel insurance companies often used by many digital nomads. Follow the links to get a free quote from SafetyWing or Heymondo . Will Fly for Food readers get 5% off on Heymondo when using our link.

6. Check for Penang Travel Deals

I buy travel vouchers from several websites, but for destinations in Asia, my favorites are Klook and Get Your Guide. They almost always have the widest selection at the best prices.

If you’re looking for deals on tours, transfers, and other activities, then you may want to search through these lists of Penang attractions on Klook and Get Your Guide . Even if I don’t wind up getting anything, I often learn about cool activities I wouldn’t have known about otherwise, so it’s always fun to look.

7. Bring the Right Power Adapter

Malaysia has Type G electrical outlets so be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 240V and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

By no means am I an expert on Penang but I do hope that you find this guide useful. I’m only sharing some of the things I learned from our trip. If you have any suggestions, then please let us know in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by and have a delicious time in Penang!

These are some of the things I brought with me to Penang. Have a look inside our backpack to see what other gear we use. (NOTE: The following links are Amazon affiliate links.)

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Found this article useful? Help us help other travelers by sharing it!

Thursday 13th of July 2023

This is an incredible detailed content! We're looking to visit Penang in 2 weeks and I get overwhelmed with reading lots of blogs and tips. Will definitely shortlist the foods from your recommendations. Thanks and keep it up!

JB & Renée

Sunday 30th of July 2023

Happy you found it useful Ann! Enjoy Penang!

Wednesday 5th of June 2019

Is the culture to order drink. When i was young and work part time. I was told to order drink as we are sitting the table which is own by drink stall, they help to clear plate, wipe table to ensure is clean for consumers. This is how the system operate. Food stall may or not clear their own plate. Now some does charge 30 to 50 cents for dine in but no order drink, which is the price of plain water.

Thursday 6th of June 2019

Hi Cherrie, thanks for the insight. I didn't order a drink just once and I instantly felt I committed a cultural faux pas. I felt bad about it so I made sure to order a drink at every hawker center. After all, we were using their tables so it was only fair that we did.

Monday 3rd of June 2019

Penang is the best place for quality food and affordable lifestyle. I spend a few weeks there. I wish to visit that amazing place again.

Thanks for your amazing content and your photos are interesting.

Thanks Christina! Penang is a great place to visit. :)

David Tristan

Friday 10th of May 2019

Hi I am planning a trip to Penang, is there a good Nyonya Restaurant you recommend ? Non-halal please

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

Hi David, we haven't eaten here but Ivy's Nonya Cuisine looks promising.

Thursday 21st of February 2019

Good article....but there is more to see in Penang... botanical gardens, Penang hill, waterfall, little India, Campbell street n many more places that HV value to visit....4 nights n 5 days should be adequate to visit Penang... anyway appreciate you loved our Penang...tq

Friday 22nd of February 2019

Thanks for the tips Kugan! We focused just on George Town for our first trip but yes, there's still so much more to see on the island. Would love to explore more of it. :)

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Penang trip blog — the super penang travel guide for a penang budget trip for the first-timers.

The island of Penang, derived from its former name Pinang in Malaysian, is a great place to add your travel bucket list if you intend to explore other places in Malaysia beyond Kuala Lumpur. Penang is a miniature cultural world of Malaysia , modern and ancient that I have felt right from the first time I arrived here. Penang is not only has the vibrant and gentle of George Town with beautiful murals , but also a land of art, stylish coffee shops and a rich culinary culture . So, are you planning a budget trip to Penang (Penang budget trip) and don’t know what to do in Penang? Let’s check out our wonderful Penang trip blog (Penang travel blog, Penang blog) with the fullest Penang travel guide (Penang guide, Penang budget travel guide) from how to get there, what to eat, where to stay to help you make a perfect Penang itinerary on a budget!

• Penang travel blog — The fullest Penang guide for 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
• Penang itinerary — How to spend 3 days in Penang?

Penang trip blog: How to get to Penang?

There are many different ways to get to Penang

If you depart from Hanoi and want to get directly to Penang, the plane is the best means, although usually you still have to transit in Kuala Lumpur. In fact, domestic flights of Malaysia are very cheap with Air Asia or Malaysia Airlines, round-trip tickets for Kuala Lumpur – Penang route are sometimes down to under $45. From Penang there are also some direct flights from other Southeast Asian cities such as Yangon, Bangkok or Singapore.

Getting from the airport to the city

The simplest and fastest way is still take a taxi, but to save money you can take the bus. The airport is about 20km from the center of George Town (because visitors often love to book hotels here) and note that the traffic in Penang is crazy. The street is very nice but there are also many vehicles, the waiting time for red light is too long leading to traffic congestion.

The shuttle bus from the airport to the city is parked just outside the arrival hall of the airport, under the bus company that operates all of public transport here, called Rapid Penang. You can take bus number 101 to enter the city, the fare is only 2.7RM, but sometimes the bus takes more than 1 hour to get to city. In the return trip, you also catch this bus to back the airport, but very bad luck. I spent for an hour to wait but no see any bus 101 to return to the airport, finally, I was so panic, and have to catch a taxi for RM35 (bargained from RM40). The taxi ran so fast, it took only about 30 minutes to reach the airport although the road is quite congested. (1 USD → 4.115 RM).

If you getting to Penang from Kuala Lumpur or other Malaysian cities

Because Penang is located not far from the mainland but also has a large bridge across the sea connecting mainland and the island, so alternative flying, there are many other ways to visit the island.

• By train: It takes 10 hours from Kuala Lumpur to get to Jalan Bagan Dalam and stop at Butterworth Railway Station in the mainland near the ferry station, to get to the island you have to take a taxi or take a ferry. The ferry runs from 6AM to 12:30 PM every 10 minutes with a trip and takes about 20 minutes to reach the island, the ticket price is also very cheap, only 1.5RM and the return trip is free.
• By bus: There are some buses from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, the traveling time takes about 5 hours and usually to the end stop is Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal near the airport. You can book tickets through the website: 12go.asia .

Penang budget trip: Getting around on the island of Penang

Rent a motorbike to travel on the island.

Although the bus frequently runs on the island, but I recommend renting a motorbike to seft-drive to take initiative. The price of motorbike rental in Penang is also affordable, but gasoline in Malaysia is so cheap, the gas price is only 2/3 of the gasoline price of Vietnam.

There are many motorbike rental shops along the Lebuh Chulia street, I rented one from an old guy with long hair and tall. This man looked quite fierce and seemed to be careful, deliver a motorbike to me and giving very detail instructions, telling me to go carefully and take care of his motorbike. The rental price depends on the type of motorbike, the cheapest one is Dream (a type of gear motorbike). I rented a scooter that was still very new at RM29 / day, too cheap, but it was very new one and good quality.

Regarding the traveling by motorbike on the island, you should note that Malaysia has a law on the left side of the road opposite to Vietnam, so you need to get acquainted gradually. The road in Penang must be said to be very beautiful, the traffic is consciously organized, when you park at a certain point, remember to park the motorbike correctly, there will often be very clear directions. Only one crazy thing about riding a motorbike in Penang is a lot of traffic lights, but the waiting time is super long, at the large intersections the waiting time can be up to 2.5 minutes at a time.

Walking in George Town

George Town is also quite large but you can still easily walk to visiting and eating. In the center of George Town, there are many good shops, eateries, suitable for walking, in addition, the Street Art area is also very good for strolling.

Penang blog: Where to stay when traveling to Penang?

George Town: Of course, because this is the center of all services on the island. Room rates here are also quite cheap and close to the night markets, super rich food. This area is about 40 minutes from the airport by car.

Batu Ferringhi Beach Area: This area concentrates many resorts and 5-star hotels, about 45 minutes drive from George Town. Passing the traffic jam area in center, you will reach the section running along the very beautiful and quiet mountainside road. You can find, check rates, reviews and book hotels in this area on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Also you can refer to The Frame Guesthouse ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) that I stayed when I came to Penang, this is a hostel located on Lebuh Chulia Street in George Town old town, mainly for backpackers in dirty chic design style but very clean. The space in the hostel is quite airy, mainly European backpackers, so it is very comfortable to stay. Price range 35RM / bed in a mixed room with 6 beds, breakfast included.

Read also: Best areas to stay in Penang — Top 5 best places to stay in Penang for the first-timers.

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Penang: Beautiful Cosy.Mountain View.Swim Pool at $16/night or 好评中！Seaview CleanCozy Suite WiFi+Netflix 海景套房@安居小岛 at $29/night.

–> Airbnb link discount up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

You can find, check rates, reviews & availability for Penang hotel on Agoda.com or Booking.com  or Airbnb.com.

Penang travel guide: Discover Penang cuisine

It is no coincidence that I titled the article that “traveling to Penang a week is not enough”, in addtion to so many tourist attractions, one thing will keeps you in the city – this beautiful island is cuisine. Penang has a wide variety of traditional Muslim dishes, Malaysian street-food, and many restaurants and cafes with its own unique dishes, which a week to try is not enough.

Regarding street food, where bustling and most famous is in Chulia Street, the eateries here are open until 12 pm with the countless street foods such as:

• Char Kway Teow 炒 粿 條 (Fried flat noodles): Fried egg noodles with shrimp and bean sprouts.
• Koay Teow Th’ng 粿 条 汤: A type of soup cooking with meat, fish and rice noodles.
• Penang Assam Laksa (Assam Laksa/Spicy & Sour Fish Noodles): A famous traditional dish in Penang with mackerel stewed in a broth with tamarind, lemon, chili and shrimp, extremely rich in flavor.
• Penang Rojak: A typical salad of Penang with peanuts, squid and a few thin slices of pineapple.
• Nasi Kandar: A Muslim dish, if you are not familiar, it will be quite difficult to eat, it is characterized by the main orange color of curry and spices.
• Curry Mee: A very popular dish in Penang, the main ingredients are egg yolk noodles and vermicelli, shrimp, scallops, squid, tofu and meat and main ingredient of curry sauce.

In addition, you can also enjoy some dishes in the cafes, because each shop has their own signature dish. For example, Mugshot cafe with Bacon egg bagel is quite famous.

Penang trip blog: Getting around the attractions in Penang on a motorbike

List of main attractions you can note as below:

Wandering in Chulia Street – The bustling street in George Town

Referring to George Town, everyone thinks of Chulia because this is the main street which concentrates many cafes, restaurants and street food, especially bustling at night. If you love nighlife, you can not ignore the bars here, with vibrant live music, delicious drinks and beautifully decorated.

Around the George Town area, there are many other attractions, if you have time to wandering you can visit such as St. George’s Church, Little India,.. Remember to rent a Trishaw, the signature vehicle in Penang for your group to riding around the streets and take photos.

Take pictures in the Street Art neighborhood

This seems to be a symbol of George Town with many murals on large walls stretching across many streets. Coming to Penang, you couldn’t help but take pictures with these funny pictures.

Tip: The paintings on the wall may be located on different streets, you can see on the map quite clearly, but some pictures have been removed and replaced so don’t be too surprised if you do not find the picture you are looking for. Some of the paintings are located in the streets farther than you have to drive around to see.

Take a train up Penang Hill

Every big city always has a place for you to stand on it and see the whole city view, Penang Hill is such a place. On Penang Hill is an entertainment complex similar to Ba Na Hill in Da Nang, although not as large, with restaurants, gardens and a quite romantic love lock bridge. The highlight of Penang Hill is the train that takes you to the top of the hill, not a cable car but a small train going up on a steep rail.

How to get there: Getting to the foothills of Penang Hill, buy a ticket, priced at RM30 / adult.

Tip: You should come here in the afternoon and can stay until evening to see the shimmering city whe it lights up. Coming here in the morning, if the bad luck meets the foggy day, we cannot see anything. Train time is 6.30 am – 11 pm.

Food Street of Gurney Drive

This neighborhood next to Chulia Street is Penang’s street food paradise. Here sell almost all the typical street food of Penang, open from morning to midnight at very cheap prices. In addition, near Gurney Drive, there is the busy shopping district of Gurney Plaza, which concentrates a lot of high-end fashion brands, if you are a shopping fan, you can not miss this place.

Also regarding the food street, you can consider adding Viva Local Food Haven, which is a truly culinary paradise. Here is almost a foodcourt-like gathering area with a campus of about 1000 square meters, each eatery have a small stall around and in the middle of a dining table for visitors. Diners order their food, then they will bring it to their table, the number of restaurants as well as a lot of dishes for you to choose.

Kek Lok Si Temple

This is the largest temple in Penang quite close to Penang Hill, so if go to Penang Hill, let combine this place into one itinerary. Although not as large and majestic as the Fo Guang Shan Temple in Kaohsiung – Taiwan, Kek Lok Si is also one of the largest temples in Southeast Asia. The temple is located on a mountain top that is not too high to be able to ride a motorbike, standing here can overlook the sea, high-rise buildings in Penang.

Batu Ferringhi Beach

This beach is located in the northwestern part of the island, where luxury resorts and 5-star hotels are concentrated. It takes 30 to 45 minutes to drive from George Town depending on traffic conditions, but in general the mountain road is very nice. Batu Ferringhi Beach has a long sandy beach, but due to the lack of rich flora as in Langkawi Island, so mainly people come here to walk, swim and playing games such as parachuting, jet skiing…

Right near this Batu beach, there is a night market selling a lot of things, but mostly miscellaneous items like clothes, hats or bags … in general, the things are not very nice and you have to bargain hard, otherwise, walking around the street is also fine.

Visiting old houses

Penang is a city with a long-standing culture, and is a busy trading hub for hundreds of years, so on the island there are still many ancient houses with high cultural values. Ancient houses such as Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion or Peranakan is currently opens to visitors, entrance tickets at around 15RM. These houses bearing ancient Indian or Chinese architectural styles that are well worth a visit.

ESCAPE Adventureplay and Penang Butterfly Farm

ESCAPE Adventureplay Park is located quite far from the city center, must go through Batu Ferringhi beach and is a place for those who love to play adventure games and are eager to explore. There are a number of games, both traditional and modern, such as walking on stilts, bungee jumping, rope walking, …

Right near the amusement park is the Penang Butterfly Farm. The flora here is extremely rich and green, is a good environment for flowers to grow as well as thousands of colorful butterflies living on nectar. This farm opened in 1986 with a campus of nearly 1 hectare also acts as a research center for butterflies.

Chew Clan Jetties Floating Village (Clan Jetties Of Penang)

This floating village located on the east coast near George Town, built in the 19th century by migrants from Fujian, China, used to be a busy trading port. Currently the houses in this area are protected as cultural heritage. Come here to visit to walk on jetties, to immerse yourself in people’s daily life and buy cute souvenirs.

In addition to the main attractions mentioned above, you can visit the night market in Tanjung Bungah area, Penang National Park, the administrative building of Penang City Hall, … That is to say, eating and playing in Penang is not enough for a week, even at first glance, the island is not too large. If you want to experience the delicious Penang cuisine, stylish cafes or the typical old houses of Penang but limited time, you need to make a reasonable itinerary and schedule, so you will not miss the must-see spots on your journey.

Bonus: Map of attractions in Penang.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Penang you can refer to

• Private Penang Airport Transfers (PEN) for Penang
• Private City Transfers for Penang and Surrounding Cities
• Shared Penang International Airport (PEN) Transfers for Georgetown or Batu Ferringhi
• Explore Georgetown
• Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing
• Penang Heritage & Street Food Tour
• Georgetown Scenic Night Tour
• KL TravelPass (Metro Card) in Kuala Lumpur
• [SALE] 4G Prepaid SIM Card (MY Airports Pick Up) for Malaysia
• 4G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for Malaysia

Are you looking for more top things to do in Penang: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Penang travel blog — The fullest guide for a budget trip to Penang of Malaysia . And Penang in 1 day: Let’s check it out here.

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Penang Insider

First time in Penang and you don’t know where to start?

Welcome to  Penang Insider,  the top Penang blog written by a resident travel writer married to a local Penang girl .Enjoy a decade of first-hand Penang experience from someone who knows the place inside out. We’ve been around long enough to know that Penang island is so much more than just a place to retire.We are always chasing the offbeat and the secret,  on a quest to stray off conventional expatriate routes.

Check out our ultimate guides for Penang first time visitors: 

Essential penang food, 60 best things to do in penang: the ultimate penang travel guide, best penang nightlife, penang street art: itinerary map & ultimate guide, george town's best boutique hotels, beautiful penang airbnb for a homey stay, 2 days in penang, 3 days in penang, where to stay, yoga & health.

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Tourist Information Centre

Penang Tourist Guides Association

Penang Tourist Guides Association (RoS Registration Number is PPM-003-07-27091966) has been established since 27 September 1966 and is the 1st tourist guides association to be formed in Malaysia. The purpose of having an association is to represent, promote and protect the common interests of the members. With an active membership of 533 members as at 31st December 2012, the guides are categorized as City Guides (blue badge) and Localized Nature Guides (green badge) who offers guiding in 10 different languages.

Throughout the years, the members are kept up-to-date with periodical online newsletters packed with informative articles and updates on guiding-related issues, listing major events, new tourism sites openings and current tourism issues. The members participate actively in tourism educational activities and the Continuing Tourism Related Education to update and increase their knowledge.

PTGA work closely with most of the tourism organizations in Penang and Malaysia in general, with regular meetings with the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Malaysia, Penang State Tourism, tourism-related organisations and non-governmental organisations. Our administrative office which also serves as a Tourist Information Centre is situated within the heritage zone of George Town.

33-05-01 Prangin Mall, Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm (Closed every Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday) Any inquiry please WhatsApp / call to 011-15461966

Member Login.

33-05-01 Prangin Mall, Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Tel/Fax: 04-285 0213 Mobile: 011-1546 1966 Website: www.ptga.my Email:[email protected]

Copyright © 2018 PTGA. Designed by EVIZ

Penang Attraction Makes It Onto World’s ‘Most Boring’ List

There are a lot of interesting and fun things to do in Penang… but critics contend this particular attraction definitely isn’t among them.

A recent informal study by Solitaired has unveiled a ranked list of the world’s most boring tourist attractions , sparking a mix of amusement and debate among travel enthusiasts. Using a combination of some 66.7 million Google Reviews and other metrics, Solitaired identified attractions that, despite whatever historical or cultural significance they may hold, have left many visitors underwhelmed and unimpressed. This list highlights places where the expectation often exceeds the reality, leading to a sense of disappointment among tourists.

Unsurprisingly – and perhaps a bit depressingly – many museums and educational attractions worldwide featured on the list. Additionally, likely owing to the site’s home base – or possibly the higher standards of demanding and desensitised Americans – the majority of the top 100 most boring attractions are located in the United States, with the site saying, “You can leave your passport at home for most of our dull journey because the U.S., which comprises only 38.5% of our data, holds 62% of the world’s 100 most boring attractions.”

Here in Malaysia, Fort Cornwallis in Penang was also named among these ‘boring’ attractions, cited for its lackluster exhibits and less-than-engaging atmosphere. Other sites on the list include the Manneken Pis in Brussels, Shankar’s International Dolls Museum, The National Museum of Singapore, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Vietnam, and the Blarney Stone in Ireland. The study underscores the subjective nature of tourism experiences, where even historically rich sites can sometimes fail to meet modern visitor expectations.

WHAT IS FORT CORNWALLIS?

Fort Cornwallis, located in George Town in Penang’s northeast, is still – even if not exciting – a notable point of Malaysian colonial history. Constructed in the late 18th century by the British East India Company, the fort was named after Charles Cornwallis, then the Governor-General of India.

Initially built from palm trunks and later reinforced with bricks, Fort Cornwallis was intended as a defensive structure against pirates and potential French incursions. However, it was never engaged in battle. Instead, it served various administrative and commercial functions over the years. The fort now houses several historical artifacts, including cannons such as the famous Sri Rambai, a Dutch cannon gifted to the Sultan of Johor and later seized by the British.

THE FORT AS A MODERN TOURIST ATTRACTION

Today, Fort Cornwallis stands as one of the largest intact forts in Malaysia (unsurprising as it never saw any battles), offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s colonial past. The fort’s walls, chapel, and numerous exhibits provide ‘a tangible connection’ to its historical significance.

Despite that history, though Fort Cornwallis found itself unhappily listed among the world’s “most boring tourist attractions.” Visitors argue that the site, while historically important, lacks any engaging activities and modern amenities that appeal to today’s tourists. Nevertheless, it perhaps remains a significant landmark for those interested in colonial history and architecture. Visitors can explore the restored structures and take in the serene views of the waterfront, making it at least a worthwhile stop (perhaps without entry) for history buffs and curious travellers alike.

For those who do wish to enter, Fort Cornwallis levies a RM20 admission charge for foreign tourists, which some reviews have suggested includes a beer or water and/or RM10 vouchers redeemable at the café inside.

Reports state that ongoing renovations and upgrades to the attraction are scheduled for completion by early 2025 .

A SELECTION OF REVIEWS FOR PENANG’S FORT CORNWALLIS

Underwhelming and not worth the price of entry in my opinion at MYR20. I find it both funny and amusing at how they offer beer at the entrance though you do have the option to get a bottle of water instead. This fort is maintained and does bear a significance to Georgetown’s historical beginnings but you really don’t get much. Richard Francisco

The place is run down, unfortunately. Renovation on the outer moat and wall is in progress though. Hopefully there will be more visual displays (only 1 seen!!) with relevant information on the fort history, the captain, etc. being provided (use multimedia). The lighthouse exhibition was closed as gate was locked. The Kota cafe was good for refreshments and the toilets were very clean. Ton van Dijk

Small but historic fort in Georgetown. It is undergoing some major restorations that should be nice when finished. It could benefit from some good curatorial efforts. Wayne Lundeberg

Right now, as of January 2024, I would say that ‘Fort Cornwallis’ is not worth the 20 ringgits entrance fee, as much of it is under reconstruction. There should have been a discount during this period. Once the improvements are completed, I am sure it will then be worth the entrance fee. Not too much to see at the moment, a few canons, plenty of grass and tarmac, and the stone walls. This ‘arena’ would make a great place to show events, plays or music; perhaps it is already used for these? Nearby is the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower; worth seeing. Chiang Mai Charlie

Not really worth the 20 RM entrance fee. If you’re interested in history, you won’t see much here since all of the storyboards and displays have been removed due to construction. The only real redeeming factor is the 5 RM add-on to get a bottle of Carlsberg. Robin Janssens

It’s undoubtedly beautiful, but there’s simply not a whole lot to see or do here. A quick walkthrough takes maybe 15 mins, and the best parts can just as well be seen from the outside. Didn’t justify the ticket price whatsoever. Christian Wischnewski

Cool fort built by the English in 1786 after their arrival. Cost 20 RM for foreigners to visit and walk around. Has old historic cannons and facts around. I suggest going while you are hungry and give Kota a try. It is little cafe inside the fort serving elevated local dishes nicely presented, delicious tasting and well priced. There is currently some construction work going on, mostly outside, adding back the moat that was there historically. Kevin M

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Holistic approach needed to capture growing Muslim tourist market, says Tourism sec-gen

Monday, 03 Jun 2024

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KHIVA: A holistic approach that prioritises sustainability, resilience and equity is needed to capture the growing and significant Muslim tourist market, says Datuk Roslan Abdul Rahman.

In reading the national statement, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry secretary-general said the Islamic tourism sector has grown significantly over recent years, driven by the increasing number of Muslim travellers seeking destinations and services that respect their religious beliefs and practices.

"With some two billion Muslim population worldwide, the Muslim tourist market is

shaping a new and significant segment of the tourism industry. This is strategically advantageous for OIC member states to satisfy the growing demand for Muslim-friendly products and services, especially in the tourism supply chain.

"We must adopt a holistic approach to Islamic tourism development that prioritises sustainability, resilience, and equity, particularly in the face of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, geopolitical challenges, and socio-economic inequalities," he said at the 12th Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers (ICTM12) here late Sunday (June 2) evening.

Roslan led the Ministry's delegation to the (ICTM12) organised by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), held from May 31 to June 2, 2024, in Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Two working sessions were organised during the conference.

In this regard, he said that Malaysia has developed the National Tourism Policy

(NTP) 2020-2030 which advocates inclusivity, sustainability, innovation, and digitisation in the transformation of the country's tourism sector, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Goals (UNSDGs).

"This policy serves as a guide and basis for planning the development of the tourism industry to optimise its potential as one of the key economic drivers," said the former ambassador.

He added that Malaysia has identified the Muslim Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) segment as one of the crucial drivers of economic progress that could be further explored.

"Since 2009, Malaysia has been actively expanding and enhancing its MFTH segment.

"In 2023, Malaysia received over 4.5 million Muslim international arrivals and retained its top position as the premier destination for Muslim travellers.

"This marks the ninth time Malaysia has maintained its top spot in the Mastercard-Crescentrating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024," he noted.

Meanwhile, during the ICTM12 senior official meeting's presentation, Roslan pointed out that the tourism industry in Malaysia has shown gradual growth since the reopening of the country's borders on April 1, 2022 post Covid-19 pandemic.

"According to the latest data recorded, a total of 5.8 million tourist arrivals were identified in the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 32.5% compared to the first quarter of 2023", said Roslan.

"Based on this positive development, Malaysia targets the arrival of 27.3 million foreign tourists to Malaysia with a total expenditure of RM102.7bil for the year 2024 in line with the UN World Tourism barometer prediction of the tourism performance post-pandemic following a strong rebound that the industry has shown in 2023," he added.

He said that air connectivity remains one of the main priorities to increase tourist arrivals in a particular destination.

Based on the Official Airline Guide (OAG) data, Roslan pointed out that Malaysia has 31.6 mil. international flight seats in 2024 which is way lower than Singapore which has 31.6% more flight seats than Malaysia’s.

"It is imperative that Malaysia capitalises on Singapore’s air connectivity to increase the arrivals to the country.

"This can be done through multi-destination offerings either via Singapore – Malaysia’s international airports such as KLIA, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, or via Singapore – Johor land borders," he noted.

Tags / Keywords: OIC , Muslim Travellers , Uzbekistan , Muslim Tourists Market , Roslan Abdul Rahman

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