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60 Unmissable Things to Do in Penang: the Ultimate 2024 Penang Travel Guide

Here's a list of all the quintessential things to do in Penang as compiled after 10+ years living on the island. Don't trust any other website: this is the ultimate list you need to plan your perfect holiday on Malaysia's hippest island.

Penang is a small island, but it packs in a big number of great travel experiences. From peeking above the skyline from the top of 200-meters-high KOMTAR , to browsing the charming UNESCO-inscribed heritage streets of the city of George Town, admiring some of Asia’s best street art, relaxing on a beach , trendy Penang cafes, famous Penang restaurants , or losing yourself into a tropical jungle, “Penang has it all”, as locals like to say.

Here I’ve compiled  60 of my favourite things to do in Penang , all things I’ve personally done in my 13+ years living here. They include the most popular Penang attractions as well as ideas for where to go in Penang to get off the beaten track and see some interesting places. Trust me: you won’t find a more comprehensive & free Penang travel guide online!

I hear you: deciding what places to visit in Penang can be tough as there are so many choices of Penang attractions, but this article is the best place where to have a quick start and arrive with a clear idea of where to go in Penang so that you can hit the ground running.

The suggestions in my below Penang travel blog are organized into sections based on location and type of activities. You’ll have a George Town and Penang Hill section, a Famous Penang Attractions section, and an Offbeat Things to Do in Penang section for those who know the island well and want to experience something different.

To find out how to map out the below attractions for your visit, please start by seeing my articles on what to do in Penang in 3 days and visit George Town in 48 Hours . And if you are a night owl, here is a list of the best things to do in Penang at night .

Article Contents

Penang Travel Essentials

• Use Klook to get discounts and great deals for a lot of activities around Penang. I use it myself all the time.
• If you are looking to rent an apartment in Penang, start by reading my article on the best Penang Airbnbs .
• Penang has some great 5-star hotels and inexpensive boutique hotels for a special stay. But you can also find some great Penang Budget Hotels that are a great bang for your buck
• If you are a backpacker on a budget, I have a complete guide to backpacking in Penang
• If you are short on time, consider taking this half-day tour or this heritage tour .
• If you want a private car to take you around, check out this link
• There is much to learn about Penang food and Penang breakfast . There are some great cooking classes and food tours, like this and this street food jaunt
• If you are coming to Penang from Kuala Lumpur, check out this guide to know all the best ways to travel to Penang.
• If you want to discover the offbeat side of Penang, check out my complete guide to Balik Pulau .
• Likewise, there are many attractions in Seberang Perai that few people ever see.

When to Travel to Penang

Penang island lays in the tropical zone and is a destination you can visit year-round, regardless of the rainy season — roughly between September and December, but truth be told it never really rains all day, and it brings some respite to the heat.

But there are best months to visit Penang, for sure, depending specifically on the different festivals and religious celebrations you may witness. I have written a dedicated article to help you choose the best time to visit Penang .

And here you go, the list of the 60 Best Things to Do in Penang!

Best Things to Do in George Town, Penang

1 survey penang from the top of komtar.

At 232-meters of height, KOMTAR is the highest building in Penang and was extended in 2015 to reach 65 levels of height. I have written a guide to the many things to do at KOMTAR , the most popular of which is taking an elevator to the top floor to enjoy a walk on the Rainbow Skywalk, the highest glass bridge in Asia — not something you’ll want to try if you suffer vertigo. If you don’t, you may as well consider trying the Gravityz, an obstacle course with ziplines perched right outside one of KOMTAR’s top floors, and one of the highest sports platforms in all of Asia.

You can buy discounted Gravityz tickets on KLOOK here .

The views above George Town and Penang island from The TOP at Komtar are sublime, and the best time to come is right before sunset when the sun goes down, and the lights of the city flare up below you. There’s a restaurant here if you thought of bringing a date for a very special meal.

You can get discounted tickets for The TOP using this link — a good idea to avoid lines, especially on weekends.

2 Lose Yourself in Little India

In a way, Little India is the heart of George Town, set between Padang Kota and the Esplanade on one side, the Butterworth ferry on the other, all encased by the backpacker enclave of Chulia Street . There are many cool things to see and do in Penang Little India , from trinkets shops to some of the best Indian food island-wide. If you are craving for samosas, masala dosa, tandoori chicken, and all sorts of southern and northern Indian delicacies, you’ll certainly find more than a restaurant to tickle your fancy — and budget. Don’t miss Nasi Kandar , Penang local rice with curries, as Little India has some of the best.

Want to visit Little India on an atmospheric trishaw ride? Check out this 3 hours tour of George Town .

Don’t forget that Little India also has some important shrines, like the Sri Maha Mariamman temple, one of Penang’s main Indian shrines, and the Nagore Dargha Sheriff, the oldest Indian-Muslim shrine built in Penang. A visit to the last songkok-maker (traditional Muslim skullcaps) and the many goldsmiths here can provide hours, if not days, of exploration and entertainment. One district you shouldn’t miss.

3 Check out the famous Penang Street Art

Like it or not, Penang island has become better known for its Penang street art than its heritage. Well, what to do… we understand the modern man’s obsession with belonging and the Gram… The very first “murals” were a series of 50-something iron-rod caricatures realized to spruce up the most historical corners of the recently UNESCO-inscribed old George Town, but street art in Penang really exploded in 2012 after Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic created the “Mirror of George Town” series for the George Town Festival.

The 9 murals and installations depicted scenes of life on the island: the most famous today, “Little Children on a Bicycle”, was voted by the British newspaper the Guardian as one of the world’s best pieces of street art in 2013. The Insta-craze started shortly afterwards: it’s constantly repainted on the farther end of Armenian Street, where on weekends, hordes of tourists local and foreign literally queue up to get the same ol’ shot next to it like other millions of people have done before. Creativity, anyone?

I do believe that the commercialization and gentrification of Penang and the murals have ruined the local art scene , but some locals think otherwise. Regardless, any visit to George Town cannot be complete without having browsed at least a few of these popular murals. The wish is that the artworks would push tourists to understand and delve deeper into Penang’s history, but that’s, unfortunately, not something the average Joe on holiday wants. So go with an open mind and you know what to expect. Again, some of the art is stunning — it’s just us locals who have had enough, ahahah.

4 Try Penang Food at a Hawker Food Court

Penang was a food paradise well before Lonely Planet voted it as the best foodie destination in 2014. The variety and quality of Penang hakwer food (meaning, sold from a street cart, or inside of a hawker center, also called a food court) is mind-blowing and you really need time to get to try it all. I have written an article that lists the essential Penang food to get you started that’s a great help for those who don’t know what to eat here. But the best way is to simply trust your nose and gut, and go for what tickles your nostrils and eyes.

Even remaining in George Town, the choice is endless: from Chinese noodles of different kinds, like the popular char koaey teow, tasty curry mee , wan than mee, to Indian food and Malay nasi kandar, you won’t have to go far from your accommodation to find some great eats.

5 Visit the Clan Jetties

Set right on the water, the ancestral homes of the immigrant Chinese workers during Malaya’s colonial times have become somewhat of a tourist trap (avoid Chew Jetty on weekends), but they are a very scenic place, and a real opportunity to understand how life was in old Penang. History says that the Clan Jetties — each one called with one of the popular surnames of migrants from China, such as Tan, Chew, and Lee — were built to cleverly avoid paying a land tax imposed by the British colonial rulers. In fact, these big wooden homes are made on stilts over the water, so that their residents could have a reason not to pay the tax.

There has been a big deal of commercial gentrification going on here which someone called UNESCOcide , but a visit to the Clan Jetties really is a must. The homes have barely changed in a century, and the charm of walking above creaky wooden planks has remained unchanged. Until a few years ago, it was most charming to come here at night and soak the atmosphere, but as of late, the residents have imposed a 9 pm curfew to have some much-needed peace and quiet. Please respect that, but by all means, come here for a stroll — it’s within walking distance from the end of Armenian Street, where some of the most known Penang street murals are.

Want to get more out of this experience? Try this Penang self-guided audio tour , which includes a lot of history on the clan jetties.

6 Take a Trip on the iconic Penang Ferry

Penang Ferry opened in 1894 as the only link between Penang island and the railway to Singapore. Believe it or not, it’s still operating despite the two bridges connecting Penang island to Seberang Perai — the mainland part of Penang state.

Penang Ferry, now under the administration of Rapid Penang, remains a very romantic and interesting way to reach George Town for the first time. It’s a no-frills trip over a very basic ferry that reaches Penang in about 20 minutes — don’t expect any luxury, and bring a little sense of adventure.

Even if the original fleet has been substituted in the midst of 2020, this is the most interesting way to travel between the Malaysian mainland at Butterworth and George Town. I have already written a complete guide to taking the Penang Ferry so you may find all the timings, costs and details on that page. Rest assured that by floating across the Straits Sea, the view of George Town’s ever-growing skyline right in front of you, is an experience to have at least once on a visit to Penang island.

7 Visit one of Penang’s Night Markets

Food, trinkets, and cheery people: what’s best doing on an evening, after your fill of great Penang food such as the famous Penang Laksa? Night markets are simple yet celebrated places where you can get away from tourists and have a more down-to-earth local experience. This article tells you about the best Penang night markets , when they open, where they are, and what you can buy there. It’s best to go on a light stomach, so that you may enjoy a bowl of local food as you browse for home appliances — souvenirs are not sold around here.

8 Go for a Trishaw Ride

Trishaws were the main form of transportation in old Penang, and today, the 200-something last remaining trishaw drivers are a real living heritage. It may be a bit touristy, but sitting for a half hour or more as the man cycles you around town, oftentimes dispensing some insider secrets that only street-savvy men like himself know, is a delightful Penang experience.

To make sure you get a fair price and a trishaw at the best time to suit your holiday (consider that right before sunset, let’s say starting at 6.30 pm, is a very good time to see George Town switch gears into the night), we recommend you book your trishaw ride in advance using KLOOK at this link . Avoid surprises and get the best bang for your buck.

9 Have a night out at one of Penang’s famous speakeasy bars

We have already compiled a list of 30-something things to do in Penang at night , and visiting a speakeasy bar is definitely a good one. Fancy finding your drink by hitting a Wing Chun dummy like Ip Man, pushing a hidden partition in a dimly-lit shopfront, or maybe even entering through a refrigerator? Well, Penang has got you covered.

Exactly what it means, “speakeasy” hints at the world of hidden bars and secretly hushed entry passwords. The whole thing has been done to death in Penang, in the sense that now there are more secret bars than one can handle, BUT some of them are pretty good for a chilled night, and most make a fun surprise for friends who have come to meet you from outside town.

The first to launch the trend was Magazine 63 , an Old-China-themed bar with waiters dressed like Chinese coolies and booze served in traditional rice jars. There are many now, the most notable being Out of Nowhere, accessed by a refrigerator, the cool Backdoor Bodega, a really small and funky place that doesn’t sell drinks, but drink-themed pins, and 12 Senses, with its fun martial art-themed tricky entry stunt. Definitely try one if you feel like having a night out.

10 Party with Backpackers on Chulia Street and Love Lane

Once the thriving home of the Indian community of Penang and a lane for mistresses and prostitutes, the intersection of Lebuh Chulia and Love Lane is Penang’s equivalent to any cookie-cutter backpacker haven on Southeast Asia’s Banana Pancake Trail. It’s certainly OK for a night out: you’ll find plenty of bars and some of Penang’s most famous western restaurants , all peppered with coin laundromats and everything else a foreigner needs to feel closer to his kind and the comforts of home. But if it’s a local experience you are looking for, you may better look elsewhere — the majority of locals don’t really go drink here.

This said the place is OK for a stroll, grabbing a bite in a casual, shabby-chic atmosphere, and meeting travelers passing through.

11 Check out a Museum (or even 25, if you fancy…)

After street art, George Town has seen a proliferation of… museums. Yes: and there are more than we can remember. From the Wonderfood Museum, with its quirky larger-than-life replicas of Penang’s most famous dishes — a good place to go in Penang with Kids —, to the Ghost Museum and the Insta-focused 3D Trick Art Museum, where you’ll be able to reach the highest level of selfie enlightenment, the choice is endless — and often poor.

If there is one museum that we feel like recommending that has to be Penang House of Music , set inside of KOMTAR. Curated by local musician and connoisseur Paul Augustin, the House of Music offers a unique insight into another of Penang’s main creations: popular music. Did you know that P. Ramlee, the father of Malaysian pop music, was born in Penang? His legacy has inspired decades of Malaysian rock and roll, hard rock, rock kapak, metal and punk, and you’ll find all the roots here. Starting from traditional bangsawan to the age of the radio, the British influence, and the arrival of rock and roll, Penang House of Music is a delightful introduction to all things that rock in Malaysia. Don’t miss it.

Famous Penang Tourist Attractions you Should Visit

Given its rich history, Penang has a lot of important buildings, temples, and clan houses that testify to its rich ethnic and historical legacy. Many are in George Town, but other parts of the island also treasure some very stunning places you should try to visit.

12 Kek Lok Si Temple

Penang’s most striking temple is Kek Lok Si, perched on a side of Penang Hill, and hosting a 36.57mt-high statue of Goddess of Mercy Kwan Yin. It’s the largest Buddhist Temple in Malaysia and one of the biggest in Southeast Asia, and it’s particularly nice to visit right before Chinese New Year (in Jan/Feb every year) when it’s decorated with hundreds of beautiful red lanterns and colourful LED lights. For more information, read our ultimate guide to visiting Kek Lok Si Temple , and don’t forget to stop at Air Itam market to try one of Penang’s best laksa .

You can visit Kek Lok Si comfortably as part of this tour of George Town.

13 Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The Blue Mansion of Penang tycoon millionaire Cheong Fatt Tze is a beautiful example of Straits Chinese architecture and one of George Town’s most iconic buildings. You can come here for a tour, but also eat at their fine dining restaurant Indigo, or stay overnight in one of their beautifully decorated rooms — certainly one very atmospheric way to spend a night in town.

The place is super photogenic and was used as a set for many films, which as of late include the popular mahjong scene in the blockbuster Crazy Rich Asians .

You can book a discounted tour of the mansion, a night stay, and included breakfast spread via our partners at KLOOK. Click here for details

14 Penang Peranakan Mansion

This green-hued heritage house in Little India is the place to come learn about the mixed ancestry of the Peranakan, or Baba-Nyonya — people of mixed Chinese and Malay blood. This 19th-century mansion has been now turned into a very interesting museum housing 1000-something objects and furniture of the time. This building also contains the Penang residence and office of Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee, who normally lived in Taiping , where you can see exquisite Chinese carved wooden doors and Scottish ironworks. A very interesting time journey to learn about a lesser-known Malaysian culture, and a very atmospheric place that, no wonder, is often hired out for events or used by local photographers to set up pre-wedding shoots in Penang .

Want to know more about Penang heritage with a knowledgeable local guide? Check out this perfect half-day tour .

15 Fort Cornwallis and the Esplanade

Perched on the easternmost corner of George Town along the walkable Esplanade, Fort Cornwallis was built in 1786 century by the East India Company helmed by Captain Francis Light to protect the island from attacks by the pirates of Kedah, on the opposite side of the coastline. It’s the largest standing fort found in Malaysia, although the cannons that can still be seen here never engaged in combat during its history. There is also a lighthouse next to it, the second oldest in Malaysia, which is an interesting sight to see.

These days the Fort has transformed into one of Georg Town’s best spots for an atmospheric drink. There’s a 5RM entry fee, but if you have a drink at any of the several bars and bistros, keep your receipt and you’ll exit free of charge. There’s also the fine-dining restaurant Kota where you can get a variety of foods, from high-tea to tapas, Western and Asian cuisine. The menu’s speciality is Baba-Nyonya style, and the ambience is casual chic — we believe it’s a better choice for a special dinner than an expensive afternoon drink.

Next to the fort is Padang Kota, a well-tended grass expanse next to a sea-facing walking promenade and Penang’s impressive colonial City Hall. This is a very nice place to come for a stroll or while away time at sunset. Many Malay families come here for picnics, too, so you may join in the fun.

16 Visit Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

The grandest Chinese clan house in Malaysia sits inside a courtyard off Lebuh Cannon and is one of Penang’s most important sights. It is a part of the goh tai seh (five big clans), the Khoos from Xiamen in the Fujian province of China, that formed the backbone of the Chinese immigrant community in Peninsular Malaysia. Located at the center of granite-paved Cannon Square, the clan house’s intricately carved pillars and gilded curved roof with four towering stone carvings are a real sight to behold.

These days, Khoo Kongsi can be visited with a small entry fee, and it is also often used as the backdrop for events such as lion dance on stilts or Chinese opera and martial arts showcases when access to Cannon Square is free of charge.

17 Take a peek at Southeast Asia’s Oldest Anglican Church

Sitting at the center of a well-manicured park at the end of Kapitan Keling Road, St. George Church is a 19th-century Anglican church and the oldest found in Southeast Asia. Opened in 1819, it celebrated 200 years of uninterrupted service in 2019.

A visit is very recommended: the church has an interesting neoclassical facade resembling a Greek temple topped by a pointed tower upon which the cross dominates above the quaint green surroundings. If you go inside, you’ll be able to walk on a mezzanine and see the whole building from a vantage position. The ancient organ here can still make some proud sounds, so try to time your visit during a service.

18 Visit Penang’s stunning Town Hall and City Hall

Set on the left side of Padang Kota, Penang City Hall dominates over the Esplanade with its white-washed Victorian facade, neo-baroque colonnades and arched windows, and a characteristic rooftop silhouette. Opened in 1903, today the Town Hall houses the Penang Island City Council offices and was built to expand the space of the adjacent Town Hall, completed in the 1880s. The Town Hall is George Town’s oldest municipal building, and back in the day also used to be the place where the ruling Europeans congregated for their social events. In 1999, the Town Hall was one of the settings for the movie Anna and the King .

Walking along this road today, you can’t avoid feeling a sense of grandeur as the two buildings, still in perfect condition, exude a prominent sense of history and are a delight to photograph, too.

19 Take a Stroll on Armenian Street

Armenian Street has become George Town’s tourist center, lined with all sorts of little trinket shops, art galleries, cafes, and the infamous “Little Children on a Bicycle” mural jotted at one of its ends. But come after dark, and the place still retains the charms it had just a decade ago: a beautiful narrow street punctuated by some of George Town’s most important clan houses and temples. Not counting the charming Armenian Park, a very nice green space to sit on a bench and ponder life passing by for a while.

Penang’s Armenian Street had great historical significance because, after starting as a Malay settlement, in the 19th century it changed into being inhabited by a majority of Armenian and Chinese, giving the area a distinct multi-cultural character that has come to define Penang. It was here that in 1910 Sun Yat-sen organized the Penang Conference in the house that today still functions as his memorial museum in Penang, raising the $8000 which served to topple the Qing Dynasty in China.

Don’t forget to visit the Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi, another beautiful Penang clan house that was recently renovated and has an ample garden and a double-story Chinese-temple-like main building, and the Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple, also known as Poh Hock Seah , that traces back to 1844. Set inside a gated courtyard, this temple testifies to the history of the Penang Riots of 1867, open warfare on the streets that led the British to ban all Chinese clan associations as “secret societies”. On the ground floor of this temple, you can still see the concealed entry of a tunnel that members could use to leave or access the premises undisturbed. On the first floor, a wooden mezzanine towers above the courtyard and there’s a beautiful shrine to the patron deity Sin Long Siang Tay with wooden carvings painted in gold.

The Choo Chay Keong Temple — also fondly called Yap temple — set opposite the Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple on the corner of Cannon street is another remarkable building with intricately carved stone pillars and a striking emerald green gilded rooftop.

20 Pray at the Goddess of Mercy Temple

In George Town proper is the Goddess of Mercy temple on the edge of the very interesting Penang Little India . Fronted by a square where devotees go pray and light up joss sticks, it’s one of George Town’s oldest temples and was built in 1728.

Legend says that during the Japanese occupation of Penang in World War II, no bomb could ever destroy it because of the goddess Kwan Yin. Today it’s a great place in George Town to come see Chinese devotees pray and observe a whole world of characters, from the long-term beggars to the Hare Krishnas who bring them free food, to the old aunties selling joss sticks and predictions for the Chinese New Year ahead. It’s also very photogenic, too, with its open square and two ash burners that tower in front of the gates like black stone guardians.

21 See one of the world’s largest reclined Buddhas

Penang wouldn’t be the smorgasbord of cultures it is if it didn’t have at least one Thai Buddhist temple, and the Wat Chaiya Mangalaram in Pulau Tikus is the most important, oldest Malaysian Siamese temple in the state. The main feature here is the 32-meter-long reclined Buddha statue, one of the largest in the world, that lays over a columbarium where the burnt ashes of the cremated are housed. There are stupas and other colorful statues of Yaksha and other mythical creatures.

The temple is a focal point of Thai celebrations such as Songkran and Wesak Day in honour of Lord Buddha. Just in front of it is the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple, another very important in Penang, with its striking collection of Buddha statues that imitate the Buddha figure as depicted around the world, from Cambodia to Afghanistan to India and beyond.

22 Soak the colonial charms of Beach Street

Beach Street runs from Fort Cornwallis all along the coast, encasing George Town, and historically was one of the oldest streets in George Town. Established in 1786, it quickly became one of the most thriving streets for business in old Penang. Part of that legacy is of course still visible today in the string of beautiful buildings — most converted into banks — that line both sides of the street, making it a magnet for couples on their pre-wedding photoshoots. A few notable to remember are India House, the Beach Street Fire Station, the Whiteaways Arcade, the George Town Dispensary, and the Khoo Si Toon Keng Tong Kongsi, a lesser clan house of the Khoos.

In the past few years, the street parade Occupy Beach Street came to enliven this area on Sundays, bringing in all sorts of arts and stalls where locals sold their wares. One of the main access points to  Penang Little India  is also along this famous road.

23 Experience Islam at the Masjid Kapitan Keling

The Masjid Kapitan Keling in central George Town is a special mosque, and not only because of its magnificent black domes, sleek architectural style, and white walls. It’s mainly because it was built in the 19th century by Indian Muslim traders in the multi-ethnic port of Penang. Its significance within the UNESCO-inscribed old city of George Town is that this was the first Islamic institution built in the city’s Tamil neighbourhood. “Keling”, in fact, was a Malay term to indicate persons of Indian origin, and even if today it is considered a racist slur, at the time it wasn’t.

You can visit the Masjid Kapitan Keling mosque outside of praying times when volunteers will be happy to show you around and answer your questions. Penang is very hot, but don’t worry, for if you will arrive without proper long clothes, the volunteers will be offering you a tunic to cover up and be allowed inside the Masjid’s grounds. Please don’t get impatient if some may go beyond their duty trying to convince you to convert to Islam.

24 Climb to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Temple

Set on a flank of Penang Hill in close proximity to Moongate and the Botanic Gardens, the Waterfall Temple, with its striking white gopuram, may be the most beautiful of Penang’s Indian temples. For this reason, it is often the backdrop of pre-wedding photoshoots in Penang.

This temple is the epicentre of the dramatic Tamil festival of Thaipusam, when local devotees, with lips and cheeks pierced by skewers in honour of the Lord of War Murugan, walk barefoot from the centre of Penang Little India  and end their pilgrimage here. This is a very busy and yet spectacular time to visit, but you can come any other time, and enjoy the peace of the surroundings sheltered by nature.

25 Tuck toes in the sand at Batu Ferringhi

On the northern side of Penang, Batu Ferringhi beach was once a hippie hangout and today harbors most of the island’s high-end hotels and resorts. The area is frankly touristy and overdeveloped, but the beach, which is public but accessed from the hotels, is still one of Penang’s most visited — albeit not the cleanest among all other 20-something Penang beaches .

Still, I think you should visit Batu Ferringhi at least once, maybe to have a sundowner at one of Penang’s famous beachside hotel bars, or even better, to catch a purple Penang sunset this part of the island is very famous for. Leave the watersports for the Arabian tourists and you’ll be fine.

READ MORE Best Hotels in Batu Ferringhi

26 Marvel at Penang Floating Mosque

The Floating Mosque is Tanjung Bungah’s most iconic sight. Opened in 2007 and built on stilts over the sea with great choreographic effect, it came to be this way to accommodate the larger number of Muslims where there was no space on land. Non-Muslims can appreciate this mosque best at sunrise and sunset when its prominent minaret and colorful rooftop glitter against all the hues of pink, red and yellow.

27 Play Monkey at ESCAPE Theme Park

This theme park in  Teluk Bahang  is perfect for a full day of action-charged activities. It’s a beautiful set of ziplines (pulleys connected to stainless steel cables, and attached to the trees) set into a patch of rainforest for maximum play effect. Kids and adults can come here to play together, climbing platforms and swinging like monkeys across some of Teluk Bahang’s most pristine canopy. Escape also has a newer park, too, Escape Adventureplay, that’s a good alternative to the beach, with water slides and all those fun water activities. The park has the world’s longest mat waterslide, a staggering 1,111 meters long and a full three minutes long, suspended among the trees.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm and closed each Monday for maintenance. Check more on Escape’s Official Website There are several categories of tickets and online discounts, starting at RM97 per child up to 12 years old and seniors, while adults pay RM147.  If you want an RM17 discount , you can buy your Escape Tickets online from our partner Klook  at this link .

28 Learn about World War II History at Penang War Museum

Malaysia’s own War Museum  in the southern Penang district of Batu Maung testifies the Penang’s history of occupation by the Japanese during World war II. But even if the museum’s management doesn’t like to admit it, Penang War Museum is better known around the world for having been portrayed in several documentaries as a “haunted museum”.

These are certainly urban legends, but what is true is that Penang really succumbed to marauding Japanese troops right at this fort, that the British built on Bukit Hantu (literally and ironically, it translates to ‘Ghost Hill’). National Geographic featured Penang War Museum among the most haunted places in Asia, telling the spooky story of merciless Japanese colonel Suzuki and the prisoners of war he tortured and killed here – the bullet holes in the walls serve as a grim reminder.

But beyond the spooks, a visit to the Penang War Museum today should be a good lesson to learn about the resilience of local Penang people against the invaders. It also offers a 100 Feet Underground Tunnel that’s guaranteed to test your nerves.

29 Have a Go at the Snake Temple

This temple situated only 3km away from Penang Airport was built in 1850 in honour of Chor Soo Kong, a famous Buddhist monk and healer. Devotees come here as far as Singapore, Taiwan, and China to pray to him, but the place has become somewhat of a tacky tourist attraction because of the tame snakes that are found there. Legend says that Chor Soo Kong used to shelter snakes inside of this temple and that after his death, they started to come on their own. What is true, however, is that a few snakes are always hanging on wooden poles set at the sides of the main altar. Don’t come with high expectations, but by all means, the place makes for a good photo opportunity.

30 See Penang Avatar Secret Garden

Did you know that Penang has a place that looks like the Tree of Souls of the blockbuster movie Avatar? It’s Penang Avatar Secret Garden in Tanjung Tokong, a place that has become a very popular attraction. The main thing to see is the landscaped park set on the hill behind the Thai Pak Koong temple. Its centrepiece is, of course, the big “Tree of Souls” decorated with LED strings. It comes alive as soon as darkness falls. The tree soars above a life-sized checkerboard, and there are stairs and a wooden boardwalk to complete a quick circuit around the tree and back down. I have written an ultimate guide to visiting Avatar Penang Secret Garden you will find very useful.

31 Take a dip at Monkey Beach

Perched on the westernmost corner of Penang Island in the beautiful Penang National Park , Monkey Beach is one of Penang’s most popular beaches. It takes its name from the population of macaques that live in the forest behind the crescent of sand, but these days you’ll probably see more day-trippers than primates, to be honest. The tourists have brought development, and there are a couple of bars here like Lazy Boys Cafe and Tiger Monkey Bar & Leisure where you can buy cocktails and stay for sunset — and also camping, too, at Lazyboys, where you can also rent A-framed huts. Swimming technically is not allowed all over Penang because of the box jellyfish hazard which can be deadly, but people usually dip at Monkey Beach. Do so at your own risk.

You can hike to Monkey Beach from the entrance of Penang National Park (remember that a group of more than 10 people need to get a guide from park headquarters) or, if you are unfit, lazy, or in a rush, can get on one of the shared boats that ply the route as soon as they fill up. They should cost RM50 per trip to share among passengers.

If you want to do it all in comfort from George Town, we recommend taking this Monkey Beach tour on KLOOK that offers pick-up from your hotel.

READ MORE – Ultimate Guide to Visiting Monkey Beach

Best Things to Do on Penang Hill

Straddling the central part of the island, Penang Hill was a colonial hill station and is the best place to feel the nature of Penang today. Hikers will love leaving George Town to spend hours, if not days, trawling the dozens of paths that crisscross the hill. For those who just want to have a trip to the top, a funicular train whisks visitors up in a few minutes. Read our ultimate list of the best things to do on Penang Hill , too.

32 Enjoy Penang Nature at the Botanic Gardens

At the bottom of Penang Hill, and within walking distance from Moon gate, are Penang Botanic Gardens founded in 1794. They are said to be the closest gardens to a city centre in the world, as they are only about 10min drive away from George Town — you can take a Grab car there . It’s a perfect place to stroll and observe some of the region’s, and the world’s, diverse flowers and trees.

A circular paved road goes around the Gardens and is popular with local joggers. You can take a walk and spend time in the many gardens and greenhouses that host a variety of endemic plants. For those who want to have a quick experience of the forest, a staircase leaves the gardens to Station 46, a popular rest stop for hikers. It’s a climb and you’ll get drenched in sweat for sure, but the views of the trees are superb.

33 Take the famous Funicular Train up Penang Hill

The original trains that have whisked passengers from the bottom to the top station of Penang Hill since 1923 have been upgraded in 2011, but getting up this hill station by train remains one of Penang’s main attractions. The train takes less than ten minutes to go up, sometimes stopping at the Middle Station en route, where in the past it was necessary to switch trains. The views over the thicket, Air Hitam and George Town in the distance are unique from this rail track. To be honest, at 30RM the ticket is quite steep for tourists, but the other option is walking up — and that will take you more than two hours one way. Here is our ultimate guide to visiting Penang Hill.

You can buy train tickets online on Klook to save time at the bottom of the hill where queues are normal, especially on weekends.

34 Fly across Penang’s Oldest Forest on a zipline

Penang Hill has a very cool zip line, the 5-course Flight of the Colugo zipline. Developed to give guests a feel for one of Penang’s oldest rainforest canopies — a staggering 130 million years old — this new attraction sends visitors gliding above the thicket like flying lemurs (the “colugo”, as the name suggests).

The complete Flight of the Colugo experience consists of a 5 zipline course which can be completed in about an hour. The cost is RM105 per person and includes equipment rental and guides. The “Honeymoon Zip” is a quick teaser on a single tandem zipline, and costs RM32 including tax. It’s an exciting 80mt-long single tandem zipline over a 5mt-high drop that gives guests one first look at the beautiful rainforest.

35 …and then visit the rest of the Habitat

Flight of the Colugo zipline is a part of the Habitat, an interesting forest walk along a colonial irrigation path that crisscrosses Penang Hill’s best-preserved patch of rainforest. I have already written an article on 7 good reasons why you should visit the Habitat Penang Hill but in brief, it has Penang’s highest viewpoint at the Curtis Crest walkway, and a 230-meter-long canopy walkway, the Langgur Way. It soars 40-meters above the forest floor underneath, and it’s been built entirely tree-friendly, without using any direct rigging of the steel cabins on the tree bark.

You can buy a discounted Habitat entry ticket on KLOOK to avoid queues and save some ringgit.

36 Have a power hike to Station 5 via Moongate

There’s nothing better than hiking to feel the mesmerizing power and sounds of Penang Hill’s forest. A popular Penang Hill hike starts at Moon Gate , the former entrance to a millionaire’s home. You can follow a concrete staircase up to the hill, which we don’t recommend, or strike off on a very interesting side jungle path that is called Wild Boar Trail. I have written a detailed guide on how to hike to Moon Gate Station 5 , a popular hiker rest stop, via the Wild Boar Trail.

Moderately fit people should complete the hike in 30–45 minutes one way, allowing some time to rest and enjoy nature and the free gym machines at Station 5. It’s best then not to strike off later than 5.30 pm to return down to Moon Gate before dark.

37 Take the Penang Hill Hiking Trail that Only Locals Know About

Tourists take the funicular train up, while local hikers love to get up to Penang Hill , or at least to the Middle Station, on foot. There is one beautiful hike I have described in this article that will take you from the Hye Keat Estate up to Penang Hill Middle Station.

The trek is completely paved and it’s possible to do it also by bicycle or small motorbike, but we believe that walking it is absolutely the best way to go. The views from the top are amazing, spanning from Kek Lok Si Temple to George Town and across the Straits Sea to Bukit Mertajam and Kedah state .

38 Find a slice of Myanmar on Penang Hill

You would think you just stumbled upon the Golden Rock of Kyaiktiyo in Myanmar, but no, you are on Penang Hill , walking from Hye Keat Estate to the Middle Station. You can’t miss them: take a side path on your right, and you’ll soon find yourself on a side of the hill filled with dozens of golden Burmese stupas. They are part of a small Buddhist Temple here, and are a very nice hidden spot to visit on Penang Hill — and tell your friends you have been to Burma instead!

Things to Do in Penang for Nature Lovers

39 discover penang national park.

The northwestern corner of Penang island is enveloped in the thick jungle and beaches of the world’s smallest national park at Teluk Bahang . A visit here offers a few interesting hiking trails, monkeys, beaches, and a lot more, including one of the world’s few meromictic lakes — meaning a lake where fresh and saltwater don’t mix but coexist in layers.

Penang National Park is a perfect place to see and experience the wild side of Penang, the other side of the moon compared to the hectic streets of George Town.

40 Look for some strange and cute Malaysian Animals

The jungles of Penang hide at least 13 species of Malaysian animals including rare ones such as the flying lemur, the Sunda slow loris and the giant red squirrel. Some of them, like the long-tail macaques, are pretty easy to spot, but you must be very lucky to find others. The Botanic Gardens and Penang Hill are the obvious places to start looking — but remember that, whatever you find, keep your distance and don’t disturb them in their habitat. Most importantly, do not feed monkeys or any other animals. If you do, you are just an idiot tourist who doesn’t know anything about nature and the world beyond a shopping mall, and there are no excuses for your ignorance!

41 Meet a million butterflies at ENTOPIA

Formerly called Penang Butterfly Farm, ENTOPIA is one of Teluk Bahang’s best attractions. Read our full review of ENTOPIA here . In brief offers a much larger space to observe insects, creepy crawlies and other small animals. Take your time to stroll inside Natureland , a living garden vivarium with 15,000-odd free-flying butterflies, or browse the Cocoon , two floors of learning exhibits, and indoor activities all dedicated to insects and bugs. It’s a great place to visit in Penang with kids  but is certainly also educational for people of all ages.

Admission prices are RM69 for non-Malaysian adults, and RM49 for children and seniors, and include an all-day access pass. But we are sure you’d love to use a 10RM discount by buying your Entopia tickets directly from our partner Klook .

42 Enjoy the Rainforest at Taman Rimba

Right next to ENTOPIA is Taman Rimba, a 32-hectare natural park that serves as a great introduction to Penang and Malaysia’s rainforest. The park is equipped with all sorts of picnic areas, a forestry museum, and a decent number of hiking trails, some of which connect with other hiking circuits via Laksamana Hill until Penang Hill. The beauty of Taman Rimba is certainly its lush forest, some of the thickest in Penang. You can consider swimming in one of the many holes here, or bring a tent and camp overnight. Arrange your stay at the park headquarters.

43 Relax at one of Penang’s Best Beaches

Penang is an island, of course: to be frank, Penang beaches are not the best in Southeast Asia, but there are definitely a few hidden gems worth visiting. For example, on the southern side of Penang island, the areas of Balik Pulau and Teluk Kumbar have some quiet, long beaches such as Pantai Pasir Panjang and Gertak Sanggul, with their interesting fishing community and great seafood.

On the northern side of Penang, Batu Ferringhi beach was once a hippie hangout and today harbours most of the island’s high-end hotels and resorts. Penang National park at Teluk Bahang has more opportunities for nature and a few famous beaches like Monkey Beach and Pantai Kerachut, which have a small turtle sanctuary. Read more details on our detailed guide to Penang’s 20 Best Beaches .

44 Visit the Tropical Spice Garden (and take a cooking class)

Set in a beautiful location between the sea and a forested hill, the award-winning Tropical Spice Garden is a collection of tropical plants curated by local artist Rebecca Duckett-Wilkinson. The garden is not only perfect as a location for pre-wedding photography , but also to take your kids on a discovery tour of some of Malaysia, and Southeast Asia’s, rarest species of plants.

Their Poison Garden is a very instructive walk among poisonous plants, whose uses and misuses are richly described with educational panels. We suggest you get an audio tour for yourself and your kids, in order to maximize your fun and learning experience. You can also participate in their guided day or night walks.

Don’t forget the Tropical Spice Garden’s cooking classes, limited to 8 people to maximise learning and give you a hands-on education to create some of Southeast Asia’s best dishes. You can book your spot here.

To enter the Tropical Spice Garden, adults pay RM31 for an audio-tour, while kids up to 12 years old pay RM18. To get your advanced and discounted audio-tour ticket please buy tickets online from our partners at Klook

45 Hike to Penang’s second-tallest peak, Bukit Laksamana

Soaring between Penang Hill and Penang National Park at Teluk Bahang, 805-meters-high Bukit Laksamana is the second-highest peak in Penang and a hiker’s delight. You can start your hike at Taman Rimba, Chin Farm in Batu Ferringhi, or Penang Hill itself. If starting from the northern side of the island, you’ll have to endure a steep incline all the way up to the Laksamana peak. The views from Eagle Point are incredible and worth the sweat and sore muscles.

46 Chase Supertrees at Cherok Tokun Nature Park

Right across the bridge in Bukit Mertajam is Cherok Tokun Nature Park, an expanse of wilderness with a bunch of less-trawled hiking trails. One of the best reasons to come here is to look for one of the four giant trees hidden away in the reserve. Contrary to Penang Hill, Cherok Tokun has some of Penang’s biggest and oldest trees, amazing natural sights that any nature lover wouldn’t want to miss. Don’t forget to check out the other great hiking in Penang Mainland , also called Seberang Perai. Want to explore it more? Stay at one of Bukit Mertajam’s best hotels .

And if you want to know more, our ultimate guide to Cherok Tok Kun has everything you need to know to hike this beautiful nature reserve.

47 Explore Balik Pulau

By far, the island’s most natural and unspoilt area remains Balik Pulau in the southwest corner of Penang. This is where you will find fishing villages, unspoiled beaches, a lot of nutmeg, durian and banana trees, some of Penang’s best and most famous laksa and a pace of life which is the opposite of hectic George Town.

READ MORE — 28 Great Things to Eat, See and Do in Balik Pulau

Balik Pulau is also ideal for cycling and relaxing, and also has a couple of hiking trails, such as the 3-mile circuit at Kalan Pondok Upeh. It’s a good idea to base yourself here if you are looking for a quiet and more natural experience of Penang island.

48 Ride Horses at Countryside Stables

Located in Balik Pulau not far from the serene Malindo Beach, Countryside Stables is a horse farm where guests can visit and ride horses in some of Penang’s most beautiful surroundings. The farm has miniatures horses, Pure Bred Arabian Horses, Polo Pony, Thai, Myanmar and Malaysian ponies, donkeys and deer, and is a perfect place to spend a day out with your family and children or, if you are a rider, come enjoy a stroll on horseback.

49 Enjoy a waterfall

Penang’s jungles are dotted by a number of beautiful waterfalls where you can take a refreshing dip. The most famous may be almost vertical Titi Kerawang Fall in Balik Pulau , but there are others around the island. The Penang Botanic Gardens waterfall, which used to be one of the most famous in Malaysia, and is unfortunately closed to the public today. But you can still go check out the very beautiful Chin Farm waterfall near Batu Ferringhi, or the 25-meter-high fall behind the Mutiara Indah apartment in Bukit Gambir.

Offbeat Things to Do in Penang

If you have arrived all the way here, you certainly have seen and done a lot of things in Penang and you need something lesser-known and refreshing. The following are a few ideas we consider perfect for those who want to scratch the surface and dig deeper into Penang than most.

50 Take a trip to Bukit Mertajam

Few people know that right across the Penang bridge is Bukit Mertajam (fondly called “BM” by locals), a very overlooked town that has a lot of great things to do and amazing food to eat. Don’t forget that BM is a place where you can experience Penang life without the beautification and massive gentrification that has spoiled George Town. If you didn’t know much about Bukit Mertajam, I have written an article that lists all the best things to visit and the best food available in this offbeat Seberang Perai town.

51 Visit a Haunted Hotel on top of Penang Hill

The Crag Hotel is a beautiful property set in a stunning location in the secluded northern part of Penang Hill. The Crag Hotel was first opened by the Iranian-Armenian Sarkies Brothers in 1895, was then leased as a boarding building to Penang Uplands School and remained operational until 1977. In 1991 it was used once again as a set for the movie “Indochine”, but since then it has stayed closed — well, abandoned, for you can certainly go visit the premises today.

The latest news was the Crag Hotel was waiting for a much-needed 300-room eco-hotel upgrade which, for the moment, still seems a far-fetched opportunity. Next to the Crag Hotel is also the beautiful building that housed the Penang Uplands school.

Like with every abandoned property in Malaysia, locals believe the place is haunted by ghosts. I’ve heard a man say that a couple of food sellers with no home used to stay here at night, and they lamented hearing muffled cries, something definitely otherworldly. Whether you come here by braving the steep and wild hiking path via Botanic Gardens or Bukit Olivia, or by walking after you get off the Penang Hill Funicular Train, a visit to the Crag Hotel is a dive into old Malaysia — the furniture, the quirky English-written signboards abandoned on the floor, and the larger-than-life abandoned bathrooms, something scary in itself, make a visit to remember.

52 Marvel at Frog Hill, the Jiuzhaigou of Penang

Also called “Bukit Katak”, Frog Hill was an offbeat place in Seberang Perai, the mainland chunk of Penang State, that got famous thanks to the usual work of Instagram hype. Also called Lombong Kampung Guar Petai, Frog Hill Tasek Gelugor, or Guar Perahu, Frog Hill is an old tin mining site where water is collected into a series of pools crisscrossed by red earth ridges. It’s an otherworldly scenery of jagged red rocks emerging from viridian pools. Some people said that Frog Hill is like the “Jiuzhaigou of Penang” — quite an overstatement, but let the locals be proud of their backwoods.

READ MORE — A Complete Guide to Visiting Frog Hill

Frog Hill is absolutely stunning at sunrise, but you gotta get up pretty early to catch it. Indeed Frog Hill is roughly 30 minutes north of Bukit Mertajam , set at the end of a road that goes through a small village called Kampung Jarak Atas. Remember that the road to Frog Hill is not paved and gets often muddy, so don’t come here unprepared in the rainy season — good footwear and sandals you can quickly wash up are essential.

53 Discover Soundmaker and Penang’s underground music

Few people know that Penang had a music history — Malaysia’s most famous singer and actor, P. Ramlee, hails from here — and fewer know that the island has an underground music scene. Set on the first floor of a nondescript building in Bishop street, Soundmaker is the island’s longest-running alternative rock club. From punk to metal, hip-hop and alternative, you’ll find something up your alley here.

Soundmaker is also a good place to go meet Penang’s musicians, especially the owner Cole Yew , a multi-instrumentalist and the man who knows everything that’s rocking in Penang.

54 Pay a visit to the Jewish Cemetery

For a bit of unknown history, Penang Jewish Cemetery , the oldest single Jewish cemetery in Southeast Asia opened in 1805, is a quirk find in Jalan Zainal Abidin. First of all, it proves the existence of a Jewish community from almost as far back as when Penang was colonized, and second, it has some beautiful stone graves and interesting tombstones. The most recent tomb is from 2011, allegedly the last Jewish lineage on Penang island until now.

55 Explore Penang’s Yoga and Health Underworld

Penang may not seem like the right place, but it has quite a few places for yoga and wellness . The most accessible is Wholey Wonder on 61 Jalan Gurdwara, which has a vegan restaurant and yoga studio. Just next door, the garden of Hin Bus Depot hosts the fun acro-yoga sessions (a bunch of very flexible people striking acrobatic yoga poses to introduce the art to passersby) as part of their Sunday Pop-Up Market.

Another well-known studio is Sunalini yoga, set in a George Town shophouse along Hutton Lane. Classes are small and run by enthusiastic iyengar-style yoga, which places attention on detail, precision and alignment in performing the right posture (asanas). The Space, located in the expat-centric area of Tanjung Bunga, is an intimate, cozy studio offering traditional yoga sessions (RM45/US $ 10 for walk-ins), and other special classes such as prenatal and childbirth yoga, stretching sessions, chakra yoga, and yoga for kids. They also run Kundalini Yoga sessions on Saturday mornings from 9 am to 10 am.

56 Shop and Meet Artists at Hin Bus Depot Pop Up Market

This former bus depot has done so much to give a voice and space to Penang and Malaysia’s visual artists. Its rotating art and photo exhibits have definitely filled a hole in the island’s social and cultural life. Not only that, but they also organise a great pop up market (Saturday 11 am- 6 pm and Sunday 11 am- 5 pm) where EVERYONE can set up shop and sell ANYTHING by paying a mere RM44 (USD11) for the space. It’s certainly one of the coolest alternative shopping experiences in Penang .

From second-hand books to plants and flowers, home-made drinks and jewellery, and unique artist postcards there’s something cute, tiny and artsy for everyone at Hin Pop Up Market . And the best thing is, the stalls change mostly every week.

57 Explore Jerejak Island, a former Leper colony that’s too big to dismiss

You certainly have seen it, as it lays like a sleeping crocodile right in front of Queensbay: Jerejak Island. Set between Penang island and the mainland, Jerejak was once a quarantine station during British colonial times and has been staying semi-dormant until now.

A few years ago there was plan to develop it as Penang’s outdoor and recreation hub, but nothing really came to fruition. You can, however, take a ferry over from Bayan Lepas and even overnight at the Jerejak Resort. The island offers a bunch of useless Insta-worthy places such as a rainbow pier, giant swings and bird nests, and a stairway to nothing. What’s good, on the other hand, is trekking and cycling around the island.

58 Explore Penang by Bicycle

It may seem counterintuitive once you have seen Penang’s horrible traffic gridlock, but the island is a good place for cycling, too. For starters, the whole eastern coast from Karpal Singh Drive all the way to Penang Airport is connected by a cycle lane, whose two trunks connect at Queensbay Mall. A more experienced cyclist may want to attempt a full 83-kilometer round island circuit: if you are not that dedicated, you may break down this route into the Northern circuit, going from George Town all the way to Batu Ferringhi following the coastal route, or explore the Southern shore at Gertak Sanggul.

The interior of Balik Pulau is covered with paddy fields and small country roads that are a delight to cycle. If getting there on a bike sounds daunting, check out the Audi Homestay, a nice place to base yourself in Balik Pulau, which also has plenty of bikes for rental. And don’t forget that using a bicycle is also a good, quicker — but much sweatier — way to appreciate all of George Town’s nooks and crannies.

59 Take a herbal sauna or realign your chakras at Bodi Heart Sanctuary

Set on a stunning natural location at the bottom of Penang Hill, Penang’s Bodi Heart Sanctuary is an oasis of (Buddhist) meditation that few people know about. The center organizes meditation courses and international events hosting monks from as far as Myanmar, India, and around the world, but you can also just come to have a stroll and relax in its beautiful gardens.

One of the perks is their herbal steam sauna open to the public for a donation of RM10. It’s a very soothing experience to while away an afternoon in a part of the island that very few people know about.

60 Learn Silambam, an ancient South Indian martial art

Silambam Nillaikalakki, a form of stick-fighting martial art, originated more than five thousand years ago in the Kurinji mountains of South India and is one of Penang’s lesser-known heritages. It arrived with the Tamil migrants and survived in Malaysia, being mostly forgotten in favor of other types of Silambam in India.

Master Anbanathan has been teaching this art for decades from a rooftop in the Bali Rakyat of the Taman Tun Sardon area of Gelugor. The group meets almost daily from 7 pm to 9 pm and everyone is welcome to come to learn and experience the art. You can have more information on the Penang Silambam Nillaikallaki Group website .

Well, that sums up my list of the best things to do in Penang. I hope you’ll use them to plan a beautiful trip to Penang. To be fair, I couldn’t include everything, but if you feel I’ve made a major omission, please let me know in the comments below.

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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

25 Best Tourist Attractions in Penang, Malaysia

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Love might be a strong word to describe how you feel about a place, but Penang deserves my affection and is one of my favourite places to visit in Malaysia.

I have been to Penang twice, and in this article, I share the 25 best things to see and do to help you have as good a time as I did in this must-visit Southeast Asian destination.

Penang is easily accessible because it is linked to Malaysia’s mainland by two bridges and has an airport. Its capital, the UNESCO-listed George Town, is bursting with historic and religious buildings, fabulous eateries, cultural hubs, and famous street art. These have taken George Town from obscurity to featuring high on any wisened traveller’s bucket list.

Drive a short way from the centre of town, and you can immerse yourself in the ancient rainforest at The Habitat or relax beside golden sands and calm waters in Batu Ferringhi. And let’s not forget Kek Lok Si Temple or the beautiful Penang Botanical Gardens. Penang is a diverse place to visit, establishing it firmly on the Southeast Asia tourist trail.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Table of Contents

#1 Explore the Street Art Trail in George Town

The street art in Penang is one of my favourite things about George Town. When I first saw it in 2018, I was blown away at how beautiful it was and loved that I could interact with the art thanks to things like motorbikes and chairs being part of some of the murals.

When I returned to Penang, it was great to retrace my steps and see the street art again. Sadly, I noticed a substantial deterioration of several pieces, where the paint had faded and peeled, or pieces of the mural’s brickwork had been taken away by tourists (yes, you read that correctly!).

Nevertheless, seeing Georgetown’s street art is one of the best things to do in Penang, and judging by the crowds waiting in line to take photographs, it remains a magnet to lure visitors to George Town.

To see my comparison images of the murals, please also read: Is Penang Street Art Still Worth Seeing?

#2 Discover the Metal Rod Art Murals

While this art form is nowhere near as talked about as street art in Penang, metal rod art is worthy of a mention in this list of Penang attractions.

There are over 52 different wire art installations dotted around Georgetown depicting traditional Malaysian trades and scenes from history, all with a whimsical twist. Each comes with information about the piece. One of the most famous wire art pieces features Jimmy Choo, the renowned shoe designer who worked as an apprentice in George Town.

They are really fun to see, and you can learn a lot about Georgetown from them, so when you visit, see how many you can find.

If you love street art, you may also like to read about 13 Great Reasons Why Ipoh is Worth Visiting

#3 Get creative at Hin Bus Depot

It might seem strange to promote a bus depot; however, this one is unique. Creatives have reutilised this urban building to promote art and culture with sculptures, murals, a small market, and street food stalls. It gives off an East London meets Malaysia hipster vibe that will suit many visitors looking for alternative things to see in Penang.

#4 See the Historic Chinese Clan Houses

One of the most historic attractions in George Town is the five clan house temples (Kongsi). They were built as meeting places for individuals from the same dialect group, family name or area in China.

Two of Penang’s most important clan houses are Khoo Kongsi and Cheah Kongsi, and they should be included in your Penang itinerary. These ornate grand temples resemble those usually seen only in China.

Cheah Kongsi is a clan house museum that charts nearly 200 years of the temple’s history. Visitors can see original furniture and artefacts and learn how meetings and leisure time were conducted in the clan house.

Make sure you don’t miss the opium and games room where the banned substance was freely smoked.

Also read: The Perfect 3-night Penang Itinerary

#5 Stroll along the waterfront at Chew Jetty

Along Penang’s waterfront are the ancient clan jetties. Like the Kongsi meeting houses, different family groups lived on each jetty.

The most famous is Chew Jetty. While locals still live here, you can stroll the boardwalk and visit stalls selling clothes, food, and souvenirs. Hop on a boat tour of the waterfront or stop for something to eat. It is only a small jetty and won’t take up much of your time, but if you want to see how life on the water is in Penang, visit Chew Jetty.

Also read: Chew Jetty: What To See in Penang’s Historic Waterfront Village

#6 Discover Penang’s Temples

Like most Asian destinations, you don’t need to look far to stumble across a beautiful temple. In Penang, there are many. You are welcome to step inside these temples, but you must observe any rules, such as covering shoulders and legs or removing shoes.

Several of the main temples in Penang are Kek Lok Si, Goddess of Mercy, Thean Hou Kong, Wat Chaiyamangalaran and Dhammikarama Temple.

This is the Hainan Temple (Thean Hou Kong) on Muntri Street in George Town. Its carved facade is quite beautiful.

#7 Tour the Blue Mansion – Cheong Fatt Tzu

The indigo-blue heritage mansion, once home to China’s first capitalist, is now a beautiful hotel, and I have been fortunate to stay there on both my trips to Penang. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, to give it the correct name, is also open to the public for tours .

Wander around its interior and hear stories of life in Penang in the 19th century and how the mansion was built using the finest building supplies from China and, more surprisingly, Scotland. It’s an elaborate place you won’t want to miss if you are interested in stepping back in time and seeing what an authentic mansion in Penang looks like.

It also has a lovely cafe on its grounds called Mangga, which is open all day to guests and non-guests. During the day, you can enjoy cakes, coffee, and light lunches; in the evening, delightful dishes and cocktails are served in the outdoor garden. Live music is also available on certain nights.

You can read my Blue Mansion Review for details on staying in this heritage mansion.

#8 Visit the Peranakan Heritage Mansion

Penang is a Unesco town with many protected sights. In addition to the Blue Mansion, another superb example of a heritage house is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion.

Inside the bright green facade of the mansion, you will find an array of decadent furniture, artwork, and glassware, which will give you a glimpse of how the rich of Penang would have lived. It is a stark contrast to the more toned-down interior of the Blue Mansion, so it is interesting to see.

Tickets can be bought at the door for a self-guided tour, and you need around 45 minutes to one hour to see everything.

Read Next: Pinang Peranakan Mansion: A Tour of Penang’s Heritage Museum

#9 Follow the George Town Heritage Trail

Penang would be listed in the top five if there was competition for the most cultures and influences in one place. From when the British arrived in 1786 and took control of this jungle island, it has seen cultural, religious and architectural influences from the indigenous Malay and the British, Chinese and Indian communities that have made Penang their home.

For this reason, Little India, with its mosques, temples, Indian restaurants, and shops, is completely different from Chinatown, with its Chinese clan houses, jetties, and ornately decorated townhouses. Decadent hotels like The Prestige Hotel and Eastern and Oriental Hotel , Cornwallis Fort, and St George’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in Southeast Asia, are the remaining evidence of colonial rule.

There are around 100 heritage properties to see in George Town, and while the trail can be done independently, if you join a tour, you will learn much more about each site visited.

Please click this booking link for details of the Penang Heritage Trail Tour.

#10 Enjoy the coffee scene in George Town

While Ipoh is famous for its white coffee , in Penang, it comes in flat whites, cortado, espresso, and cappuccinos made by baristas who wouldn’t look out of place in any European city. Some of the coffee we drank in Penang (and we drank a lot!) was some of the best we have tasted. So, if you enjoy taking your time over coffee in quirky cafes, you will love George Town, as it is full of them.

One in particular that I must mention is Norm Roastery at 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, which looks like a full-on industrial coffee factory from the inside and produces the best flat whites!

Other coffee shops in George Town which deserve a mention are:

• Ome by Spacebar Coffee | 1 Lorong Toh Aka
• Coffee Affairs | 21 Lebuh Bishop
• Lunabar | 12, Jalan Clove Hall
• Macallum Connoisseurs | 1 Gat Lebuh Macallum
• Le Petit Four | 310, Lebuh Pantai
• Bean Sprout Cafe | 35 Pitt Street

#11 Join a George Town street food tour

Penang has a reputation for being the top foodie destination in Malaysia. Of all the places I have visited in Malaysia, whenever I mention Penang, people grin and comment on how good the street food is in George Town.

The island is packed with places to eat traditional Malay, Indian, and Chinese dishes, but sometimes it can be overwhelming to find what you want (I speak from experience).

To make things easy, joining a street food tour with a local is a good idea. The guide can take you to all the best local cafes and hawker stalls to try Penang’s famous food. You can taste dishes you may not have tried before and get a brief run-down on the dish and its origins.

If joining a Penang street food tour sounds like something you would be interested in, please click on this link for more details – Penang Island Street Food Walking Tour .

#12 Enjoy a cake at China House

There’s only one place for cake in George Town: China House. It’s a tourist attraction in its own right due to its seemingly never-ending counter full of every type of cake you can think of, from red velvet and Victoria sponge to coffee, walnut, and carrot cake. The list is extensive, so you won’t want to miss visiting this cake emporium while you are in Penang. China House also serves up lunch and dinner, and there is an outdoor seating area accessible through a moon gate at the back of the property.

If China House has left you with a taste for more of George Town’s pastry offerings, head to Ming Xian Tai for the best egg custard tarts in Penang. Get to the shop before midday, or you will likely miss the chance to taste these delectable pastries as they sell quickly.

Find China House at 153 Beach Street and Ming Xiang Tai at 133 Jalan Burmah.

#13 Head to the top of the Komtar Observatory Tower

Visiting the Komtar Observatory Tower for a 360-degree birds-eye view of George Town and its coastline should be on any Penang to-do list. If you have a head for heights, walk out onto the glass bridge to see the streets below you!

#14 Have fun in one of George Town’s Museums

For a compact town, there are plenty of quirky museums, including the Upside Down Museum. Unsurprisingly, it is filled with everything that is upside down, and you enjoy the optical illusion of walking on the ceiling or down the stairs on your hands; it makes for some fun photographs.

For foodie lovers, the Wonderfood Museum introduces visitors to 100 giant-sized items of local Malay, all sculpted using Japanese food replication techniques. For photographers, the Asia Camera Museum covers the history of cameras and photography in Southeast Asia.

Numerous other museums feature ghosts, 3D interactive installations, Batik paintings, and even a 3D glow-in-the-dark museum, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

#15 Enjoy the nightlife on Love Lane

One of the streets in George Town that is most talked about is Love Lane, and for good reason. During the day, it is a sightseeing hotspot for tourists searching for street art and historic sights.

In the evening, the mood changes. Love Lane/Chulia Street, once the home of prostitutes and brothels, becomes a magnet for visitors (especially backpackers) looking to mingle with other travellers over a beer and some good stories. It’s a buzzy place, so if you want to experience the best of Penang’s nightlife, make sure you come to Love Lane.

On the outskirts of George Town

George Town is not the only place to visit on the island of Penang. The island is bursting with cool things to do that are slightly outside of George Town, which you need to add to your Penang itinerary.

#16 Ride the funicular up Penang Hill

If you have time, ride the funicular up Penang Hill. The journey is thrilling as the train whizzes up the hill faster than expected. From the top, the awe-inspiring views over Penang are your reward. The hill is pretty touristy, but there are places to eat and entertainment hubs, with The Habitat as the main draw.

If you are a hiker, a trail from Penang Hill leads down to the Penang Botanical Gardens. Kek Lok Si Temple is also a stone’s throw away, so you can visit both in one day if you have the time.

#17 Discover the rainforest at The Habitat

The Habitat is undoubtedly the best of all the Penang Hill attractions and one you have to see.

Set in a 130 million-year-old rainforest, The Habitat is a place to find peace and tranquillity in an otherwise manic location. Have fun on the giant swings, take in the views along the canopy walk, and keep an eye out for the wildlife that lives there. You might see monkeys or even a flying squirrel if you are lucky!

Book your entrance ticket to the Habitat on Penang Hill

#18 See the Penang Botanical Gardens and spot the monkeys

The Penang Botanical Gardens are free to enter and a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of George Town. Stroll along the pathways and immerse yourself in Malaysia’s indigenous flora and fauna. Watch out for the resident macaque monkey troop, who call this oasis home. I was lucky to see many babies with their mothers and enjoyed watching them interact (from a distance).

#19 Discover exotic flora in the Tropical Spice Garden

If you enjoyed visiting Penang’s Botanic Garden, which just so happens to be one of the best botanical gardens in Asia , then next on your list should be the Tropical Spice Garden. On eight acres of tended grounds, you can stroll around this beautiful setting and see some of the world’s most exotic plants and over 500 herbs and spices.

The Tropical Spice Garden has different sections, such as the Bamboo and Ornamental Gardens and the Spice Terraces. If you are a gardener or are travelling with children, this is one of the best educational places to visit in Penang to learn about these diverse and exotic variants.

Find the Tropical Spice Garden at Lot 595 Mukim, 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Teluk Bahang

#20 Take time to explore Kek Lok Si Temple

South-east Asia’s biggest and most important Buddhist temple is Kek Lok Si, built in 1891.

Take the funicular or the steps from the car park to the first terrace to discover beautiful ornate ceremony rooms, pagodas, statues, ponds and individual temples. Vibrant reds and greens mix with subtle pinks and ochres, making Kek Lok Si Temple a feast for the eyes.

Its crowning glory is the “Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas”, which incorporates three cultures in one structure – Chinese, Thai, and Burmese.

You can visit the temple independently, but with a guide, you will learn much more about its history and its role for Buddhists in Malaysia and beyond.

Why not book to see Kek Lok Si as part of a Private Penang Tour?

#21 Bask on Batu Ferringhi Beach

Most people visiting Penang stay in George Town and then move on to other destinations in Malaysia. But why not spend a few days at Batu Ferringhi Beach? Plenty of resorts line the coast, catering to all budgets, and the town is full of restaurants. There’s also a night market during the high tourist season where you can pick up souvenirs.

I have stayed at the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang on both of my visits to Penang and have to say it is lovely to mix the chaotic vibe of George Town with the relaxing vibe of Batu Ferringhi.

Read Next: Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort Review: Beachfront Luxury in Penang

#22 See the floating Tanjung Bungah Mosque

The ‘floating’ Tanjung Bungah Mosque is close to Tanjung Bungah Beach. At high tide, the sea covers the stilts supporting the mosque, giving the illusion that it is floating. You can enter inside at given times but must abide by dress requirements. Be sure to have your arms, legs, and heads covered.

Like other Malaysian ‘floating’ temples like the pink Putra Mosque in Kuala Lumpur and Masjid Bandaraya in Kota Kinabalu, this one is also beautiful.

You can find Tanjung Bungah Mosque at Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah, 11200 Tanjung Bungah.

#23 Hike Penang National Park

One of the hidden gems in Penang, the National Park (Taman Negara Pulau Pinang), is the smallest one in Malaysia. It’s approximately a 90-minute drive by car or on the 101 bus from George Town.

The park has plenty of trails to explore, and if you are feeling adventurous, you can wild-camp on the beach for free. The main hiking trail leads to Monkey Beach (and yes, there are monkeys there). It is a hard trek due to the humid climate, so it is not advisable if your fitness levels aren’t great.

#24 Discover the historic Fort Cornwallis

If you are still looking for something historic to see in Penang, visit Fort Cornwallis. The British built the original wooden fort in 1786 and rebuilt it from bricks in 1793 when news of war breaking out between England and France reached Penang.

In recent years, the fort has become a hit with Instagrammers who want to take photos of themselves, meaning queues can be long, even first thing in the morning. Even so, this is one of Penang’s most important historic colonial relics, so it is worth seeing. There is a small entry fee to go inside, where you will see a prison, cannons, and a drawbridge.

Fort Cornwallis is found at Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town.

#25 Release your inner child at ESCAPE Penang

Last on this list of things to do in Penang is one for visitors of all ages. Forget Typhoon Lagoon in Florida and head to ESCAPE Penang , winner of two Guinness Book of Records Awards for the world’s longest water slide, named accordingly “The Longest”, measuring 3,645 feet.

Other ESCAPE Penang features include a chair lift, lazy rivers, swimming pools, ziplines – the list is endless. So, if you are looking for a fun way to finish your trip, this is one of the activities in Penang that both kids and adults will love.

Please PIN for Future Travel to Penang

HEADING TO MALAYSIA IN THE FUTURE?  CHECK OUT MY GUIDES ↓

Discover Penang in 3-Nights: The Best George Town Travel Itinerary

Pinang Peranakan Mansion: A Tour of Penang’s Heritage Museum

Chew Jetty: What To See in Penang’s Historic Waterfront Village

Penang Street Art Then And Now: Is It Still Worth Seeing In 2024?

Blue Mansion Penang Review: Cheong Fatt Tze

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort Review: Beachfront Luxury in Penang

Kuala Lumpur

Kwai Chai Hong: Beautiful Art Murals in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

Is Ipoh Worth Visiting? Here’s 13 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ipoh in Malaysia

Best Ipoh Itinerary For 2 Days + Cave Temples

Gua Tempurung: Explore the Limestone Cave in Perak, Malaysia

Ultimate Guide for Visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Centre in Borneo

Sepilok Nature Resort Review: A Beautiful Oasis in Sabah, Borneo

7 Best Places to See Orangutans in the Wild

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Malaysia vs Singapore: Which One is Better for Your Next Trip?

Getting Around Malaysia: The Best Sightseeing Road Transfers with Daytrip

Exploring Malaysia: 20 Best Places and Most Unique Experiences

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  travel resources page  to help you plan your trip.

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

January 1, 2024 by Bino 8 Comments

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

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Georgetown

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

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

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

penang clan jetty by justin lau

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

wonder food museum (source: wonder food museum)

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

boy on motorbike street art in penang

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

khoo kongsi georgetown by WIL | CC 2.0

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

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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Reader Interactions

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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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.

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

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

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

How Many Days in Penang, Malaysia?

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

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

About Our Penang Itinerary 5 Days

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

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

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

George Town, Penang History

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

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

Origins of Georgetown

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

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

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

Penang Street Art

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

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

Penang Art District

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

Street Art Penang: What To See

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

The Best Penang Itinerary  

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

DAY 1: Visit Penang Itinerary

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

What To Do in Georgetown Penang

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

Georgetown Penang Attractions Map

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

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

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

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

#1 Queen Victoria Memorial Clock (Jubilee Clock Tower)

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

#2 Fort Cornwallis

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

#3 Penang Town Hall and City Hall

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

#4 St. George’s Anglican Church

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

#5 Church of the Assumption

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

#6 Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion

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

#7 Trishaw Man Mural

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

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

#8 Thean Hou Temple

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

#9 Kung Fu Girl Mural

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

#10 The Indian Boatman Mural

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

#11 Goddess of Mercy Temple  

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

#12 Pinang Peranakan Mansion

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

#13 Little India

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

#14 Sri Mahamariamman Temple

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

#15 Kapitan Keling Mosque

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

#16 Yap Temple

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

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

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

#18 Penang Islamic Museum

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

#19 Lebuh Aceh Mosque

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

#20 Reaching Up Mural

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

#21 Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

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

#22 Armenian Street Penang

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

#23 Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple

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

#24 Children on Bicycle Mural

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

#25 Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Clan House

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

#26 China House

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

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

#27 Boy on Motorbike Mural

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

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

#28 Children Playing Basketball Mural

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

#29 Brother and Sister on Swings Mural

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

#30 Chinese Clan Jetties

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

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

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

After Your George Town Penang Walk

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

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

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

DAY 2: Penang Activities on Penang Hill

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

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

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

Getting from Georgetown to Penang Hill

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

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

Ascend to The Top of Penang Hill

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

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

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

Kek Lok Si Temple

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

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

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

Penang Botanical Garden

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

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

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

Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

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

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

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

DAY 3: Penang Beach and Temples

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

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

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

Getting from Georgetown to Batu Ferringhi

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

Visit Penang Temples

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

Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

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

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

Batu Ferringhi

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

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

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

DAY 4: Discover More Things To Do in Penang Georgetown

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

Explore Penang George Town without a Checklist

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

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

More Fun Activities in Penang

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

DAY 5: Penang National Park Day Trip

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

Penang National Park

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

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

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

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

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

What To Do at Penang National Park

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

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

More Things To Do in Teluk Bahang

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

Escape Theme Park

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

Penang Butterfly Farm

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

Tropical Spice Garden

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

Penang Food and Drink

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

Penang Foodie Haven

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

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

Street Food in Penang

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

What and Where to Eat in Penang

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

Char Koay Teow

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

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

Tandoori Chicken

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

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

Beef Murtabak

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

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

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

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

Oyster Omelet (Oh Chien)

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

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

Nasi Kandar

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

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

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

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

Crispy Duck with Rice

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

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

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

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

Fruit Rojak

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

Best Place for Rojak: Gurney Drive Hawker Center

Penang Night Market

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

International Food Penang

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

Food Tour Penang

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

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

Penang Nightlife

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

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

More Things To Do in Penang, Malaysia

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

Penang Museums

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

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

Shopping in Penang

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

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

Penang Activities

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

Google Map Penang

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

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

Additional Penang Suggested Itineraries

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

Penang Half Day Trip

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

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

Penang Itinerary 1 Day

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

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

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

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

2 Day Penang Itinerary 

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

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

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

Penang Itinerary 3 Days

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

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

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

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

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

Penang Itinerary 4 Days

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

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

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

Penang Travel Tips and Trip Planning

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

Planning a Trip to Penang

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

Getting to Penang

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Penang

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

Where To Stay in Penang, Malaysia

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

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

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

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

 Read our Tips for Finding the Best Hotels for Cheap !

What To Pack for your Penang Trip

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

Walking Shoes for Penang

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

Best Travel Camera to Photograph Penang

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

Penang Weather-Appropriate Gear & Day Bag

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

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

Travel Insurance for your Penang Vacation

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

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

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

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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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11 Best Things To Do in Penang, Malaysia (Georgetown)

Georgetown, on Penang Island, is the must-visit spot of Malaysia. The stunning colonial streets of Georgetown are a center for culture, street art, and the country’s best street food. The differences between Chinese houses and skyscrapers, side by side, give this town a unique atmosphere. Penang is far bigger than only Georgetown, and by venturing a little further, you can find monkeys in the jungle, jaw-dropping temples, and white-sand beaches.

Things to do in Penang, Malaysia

Penang Island is an incredibly fun island to spend a good couple of days during your Malaysia travel itinerary . Take 2-4 days exploring this UNESCO World Heritage with the following things to do in Penang Georgetown.

1. Follow the Trail of Street Art in Georgetown

Georgetown is, without a doubt, the king of street art. Hundreds of murals inhabit the small radius of the old town, now developed into one enormous art trail. Follow the trail via bike or on foot, or ditch the map and see what you happen to stumble across in the many side streets. You can download a street art map HERE .

Here are all your hotel options in Georgetown.

The most famous work is by Ernest Zacharevic, who was commissioned by the local council to create street art that would give a facelift to older Chinese shops. His murals tell a story of the culture in Penang, usually combined with a physical object to bring the piece to life.

Georgetown has drawn many artists to create art. As a result, you could spend your entire time in Penang hunting for street art.

Also read: Malacca, the city on the riverbank

2. Discover Penang’s Wildlife at Penang National Park

Penang is not just Georgetown. The island has some incredible nature to discover! Penang National Park is a pleasant place to go and escape the crowds of the city and is just a short bus ride away. It is the smallest national park in the world but home to hundreds of different species of wildlife and plants.

Choose one of the many hiking trails, relax at beautiful beaches, get up high on the canopy walkway, or search for monkeys and turtles. At the weekends, visiting the park is a popular thing to do in Penang for Malay people.

Tip: Check the opening times as parts of the park can be closed depending on the season.

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3. Best Thing To Do in Penang: Kek Lok Si Temple 

Kek Lok Si temple is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia! Its name translates as ‘heavenly temple’ and is a sacred place of worship for Buddhists all over the world. 

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Various tiers of the temple are covered with numerous pagodas decorated in reds, yellows, oranges, and gold, combining Chinese, Thai, and Burmese (Myanmar) architecture. At the top tier is a jaw-dropping 30-meter-high bronze Guanyin statue towering over the entire city. 

See tickets and availability for a tour of Kek Lok Si Temple

During Chinese New Year, the temple is lit up at night by thousands of lanterns and lights- magic! Getting there: The temple is located in Air Itam, which is about 20 minutes drive outside of Penang and located near Penang Hill. Plan an entire morning for this visit. 

Tip: After your visit, have lunch at the nearby located Purple Stone Vegetarian Food Centre . (It is delicious!) 

4. Take the Funicular up to Penang Hill 

Georgetown nestles in the shadow of Penang Hill, which is the last part of the tropical rainforest on the island. Take the funicular up to the top for spectacular views across the island and cool down in the lower temperatures. Experience the funicular as part of a penang island day tour ( book your tickets here ).

Tip: It is best to visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds, as it the most popular thing to do in Penang.

5. The Blue Mansion (Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion)

Cheong Fatt Tze is a 19th-century mansion built in the Chinese style and painted in striking indigo blue. Owned by a former shopkeeper who turned into a wealthy businessman. It has been nicknamed the ‘Blue Mansion’ due to its outstanding color and is a favorite to do in Penang.

Guided tours running throughout the day give travelers the opportunity to have a look inside. The perfectly preserved mansion houses have open-air interior courtyards surrounded by ornate verandas and materials imported from all over the world.

See tickets and availability for a tour of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The mansion is also a hotel for those who want to spend the night living like Cheong Fatt Tze himself.

Hotels in Georgetown 😴

6. The Cakes of ChinaHouse

ChinaHouse is three heritage houses all connected and transformed into a creative art gallery, small library, and cake shop. And this cake shop at the bar of China House is no joke. A massive selection of cakes and treats is waiting for you :)

Also read: Ipoh, unknown city of Malaysia

7. Experience a Different Way of Life at the Clan Jetties, Georgetown, Penang

The Clan Jetties is where you find the contrast between local life and the modern development of Georgetown as a city. Wooden stilt houses, rising out of the water, were owned and built in a separate area by each clan, known as the ‘Clan Jetties of Penang’. The Chinese settled down close to the water so they could find sea-related work.

Book a flexi tour of Penang and see all the highlights

Nowadays, all the jetties are looking a little worn. It seems like they are made up of local souvenir shops, but not all six jetties are the same. Visit the Tan Jetty for a less touristy experience. 

Discover the green tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands

8. Khoo Kongsi

This ancient Chinese clan house is a must-see whilst in Penang. Kongsi (family house) was a meeting place for the Chinese living in Penang with the same family name, “Khoo”. The clan houses were incredibly common; however, now there are only five left. 

See availability for a tour of Penang (including Khoo Kongsi)

Although Khoo Kongsi is located in the center of Georgetown, it is barely visited and, therefore, great to escape mass tourism. The beautiful classic Chinese style of architecture features sloping roofs, complex carved columns, golden Chinese symbols, and dragons and mythical creatures from legendary Chinese stories. There is a small museum on-site to learn more about the Kongsi and its history. 

Read: Kuala Lumpur, a 3-day city guide

9. Eat First-Rate Street Food

Penang is named one of the best street food destinations in Asia. Due to the rich blend of cultures within Penang, a mix of delicious and weird dishes can be found on the streets and in the markets of Georgetown. Various food markets take place at night throughout the week across the city. Join a street food tour for the best food experience. Book food tours online .

10. The Colorful Streets of Georgetown, Penang

Wherever you wander in Georgetown, the details of the architecture are what stand out. Colorfully painted buildings, detailed ornaments, and beautiful tiles in all shapes and designs. The street with the most tiles can be found here , and these colorful houses here .

11. Get Creative at Hin Bus Depot

Hin Bus Depot is a creative space that used to be an old bus depot but was converted into a  beautiful artistic space, thanks to the 2014 art project Urban Xchange. Now you can find a small market with shops, street art, and tasty food stalls.

How to Visit Penang/Georgetown

As Malaysia’s second-largest city, Georgetown is very well connected to the rest of the country. There is an international airport that serves destinations all over the world, with numerous flights per day to the capital, Kuala Lumpur .

Getting from Kuala Lumpur to Georgetown

Buses leave from KL airport and city center at various times throughout the day. Alternatively, you can take a train from many locations to Butterworth and, from here, take the public ferry across the water to the island of Penang.

Book your transfer here .

Getting from Langkawi to Georgetown

Before, there was a super fast ferry between Langkawi and Penang Island. However, nowadays, the only option to get to the archipelago is to hop on a quick plane ride.

How to get around Penang & Georgetown

Once in Georgetown, it is very easy to navigate your way around the town on foot. This is the best way to see all the street art. Go by bike if you are on a slightly tighter time scale. Buses run regularly to places like Penang Hill and Penang National Park to get further on the island. Grab (taxi app) is also a popular way of travel on the island.

We recommend to rent a car in Malaysia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Best Spots to Eat in Georgetown

Eat your way through Georgetown’s markets and restaurants during your stay, and you’ll still find that you barely touch the surface of this culinary heaven. The new modern styles of cuisine from all over the world are mixed with traditional local recipes.

These were our favorite restaurants and cafes:

• Street food markets
• Sushi Kitchen
• Laksalouicios
• Lily’s vegetarian kitchen
• Holy Guacamole
• Purple Stone Vegetarian

Hotels to Stay in Georgetown

A hotel or guesthouse in Georgetown is best to find within the old town if you’d like to be close to all the top things to do.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a beautiful hotel to stay in and conveniently located within walking distance of the street art trail and other iconic sites.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Georgetown via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Best Things to do in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

9 best things to do in langkawi (3-day travel guide), 9 best things to do in ipoh, malaysia.

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Thanks for the tips! It looks beautiful. Hope to visit one day.

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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

• 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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

a. Inner Courtyard

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

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

b. Dining Hall and Kitchen Area

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

c. Family Hall

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

d. Bridal Chamber and Bedroom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Option 1: bee hwa café.

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

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

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

Option 2: Hameediyah Restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

a. Indoor Observatory Deck

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

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

b. Rainbow Skywalk

Watch the sunset while wandering around the Rainbow Skywalk.

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

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

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

Option 1: new lane hawker centre.

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

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

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

Option 2: Village Fish Head Bee Hoon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Admire the magnificent exteriors with intricate roofs and ornamented pillars.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

a. Main Prayer Hall and Grand Hall

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

b. Standing Buddha, Seated Buddha, and Beautiful Garden

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

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

c. 7-Tier Pagoda

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

d. Goddess of Mercy

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

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

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

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

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

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

a. Viewing Deck

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

b. Sky Terrace

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

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

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

c. Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple

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

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

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

d. Gate House Bel Retiro

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

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

e. Astaka Cliff Café

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

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

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

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

f. The Habitat

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

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

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

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

Their best-sellers include the Hokkien Mee (RM 6), Fish Fillet Noodle Soup (RM 11), and Fried Oyster Omelette. Other options are the Tau Foo, Tomyam Noodle Soup, and Curry Mee.

Your itinerary’s last day is the perfect time to explore some of Penang’s famous attractions . These include TeddyVille Museum , Entopia , and Escape Penang .

And after the fun-filled day, you’d be capping off the trip at Gurney Drive Hawker Center and Gurney Plaza .

1. TeddyVille Museum @ Batu Ferringhi – 1 hour (9:00 AM to 10:00 AM)

Commence your day with a trip to the TeddyVille Museum . This is a perfect choice for those travelling with kids or anyone who loves teddy bears.

The museum offers an impressive collection of charming and cuddly bears in various colors and sizes .

And uniquely, there are some teddy bears that are dressed in local costumes to portray different cultures . So, go around the exhibits and meet these cute figures. Pose with them or use them as your backdrop .

2. Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm + Lunch – 2 hours (10:20 AM to 12:20 PM)

After your teddy bear encounter at the museum, it’s time to unravel the beauty of Entopia Penang . The place houses more than 60 different butterfly species . At present, they have over 15,000 butterflies .

They also have an extensive collection of insects, reptiles, and more . Check out their habitat one by one and unravel their unique features through the compartments.

Stroll along the lush garden bursting with beautiful flying creatures. There’s also a small waterfall inside the farm that is very scenic .

And during your trip, try to revisit the life cycle of a butterfly or get to know more about the characteristics of these insects.

Aside from the exhibits, the farm also offers a lot of interactive learning programs and fun educational activities. So, if you’re with kids, this is a great opportunity for them to learn more about these animals.

How to save on entrance tickets? Take advantage of online offer and book your Entopia tickets online to enjoy up to a 10% discount.

Lunch (Tapestree Café @ Entopia): Take a break and have your lunch at Tapestree Café. This dining spot offers a wide selection of tasty Asian and Western snacks and meals.

You can try their Chicken Rendang with White Rice (RM 26), Chicken Chop with Fries (RM 26), or Chicken Rice (RM 24).

If you want a lighter meal, they have Spaghetti Aglio Olio with Chicken (RM 24) and Fish & Chips (RM 26).

3. ESCAPE Penang Theme Park – 5 hours (12:30 PM to 6:00 PM)

After filling your stomach, embark on a journey to ESCAPE Penang . Visiting this theme park is a must, especially for those with a penchant for outdoor fun.

Ready yourself for an exciting adventure loaded with thrilling activities. Try the world’s longest zip coaster and experience the thrill as you travel through the breathtaking nature scenes at a fast pace .

There are also water slides for adults and kids. If you have the guts, take on the world’s longest tube water slide . And of course, the obstacle courses are totally fascinating.

So, make sure you don’t forget to add ESCAPE Penang to your must-go list  to experience a day of fun and excitement.

Discounted Entry Tickets: Why pay more on-site? Book your Escape Penang tickets online to get cheaper prices!

4. Gurney Drive Hawker Centre (Dinner) – 1 hour (6:30 PM to 7:30 PM)

Following a fun-filled day at ESCAPE Penang, it’s best that you eat dinner at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre . Here, you have lots of tasty food options according to your liking .

If you’re craving some noodles, you can try the Prawn Noodle (RM 6.50), Asam Laksa (RM 5.50), or Char Koay Teow (RM 7) .

Fried and grilled foods are readily available too like the Fried Oyster (RM 18) and Lok Lok (RM 1.30 per stick).

5. Gurney Plaza – 2 hours (7:30 PM to 9:30 PM)

Complete your trip by shopping at Gurney Plaza , which is located within the Gurney Drive section of Penang. This offers an impressive variety of shops, making it one of the favorite spots among shopaholics .

Go around the massive mall and visit different luxury shops and local stores. There are heaps of clothing lines, fashion brands, beauty items, and skincare products .

And of course, dining is not a problem here. You’d find several fast-food restaurants and cafes around to satisfy your needs.

Some of the most recommended dining areas are Ippudo Ramen and Sushi Tei as well as Din Tai Fung and Canton-i Restaurant .

If you’re considering a trip to Entopia Penang, The Top Komtar, and Escape Penang, the combined cost of tickets would be RM 269.10 (For Malaysian) and RM 283.50 (For Non-Malaysian).

However, with the Penang Multi-Attraction Pass , you can enjoy all these attractions for just RM 220 (For Malaysian) and RM 225 (For Non-Malaysian), saving you RM 49.10 (For Malaysian) and RM 58.50 (For Non-Malaysia) . The more people in your group, the more you can save on your overall expenses .

The Penang Multi-Attraction Pass offers flexible options such as a 2-Attraction, 3-Attraction, or 4-Attraction pass . This pass cover up to 9 tourist spots in Penang . For more details, just check out the link below.

Also, gives you the freedom to pick and choose which attractions to visit and when to visit them , depending on your preferences and schedule.

• Check out Penang Multi-Attraction Pass here

The map above is created by me to make it easier for you to understand my 3 days trip in Penang .

Although there are lots of options at hand, the best area to stay in Penang for tourists is Georgetown .

The place itself is brimming with advantages. Below are some of the key elements that make this highly recommended for tourists:

• Culture and History: As a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’d be surrounded by all sorts of colonial structures and cultural charms. These include museums, temples, street murals, and more.
• Abundance of Dining Options: Of course, the food choices here are top-notch. You’d love the street food scene that is filled with fast-food restaurants, local eateries, and hawker stalls. So, if you’re craving some local and international dishes, it’s easy to find a place to eat.
• Proximity to Key Sites: Since it’s situated in the heart of Penang Island, you can conveniently visit one attraction to another. It’s a strategic base point when exploring different tourist sections.
• Vibrant Night Scene: Lastly, the nightlife scene here is outstanding. You can enjoy the night at some cafes or restaurants. There are plenty of bars in the area too.

Recommended Hotels in Georgetown

• Sunway Hotel Georgetown : This 4-star hotel is just a minute’s walk to New Lane Hawker Centre. It’s also 5 minutes away from The TOP Penang, providing easy access to attractions in Georgetown. Plus, you won’t have a hard time booking a grab car in the area.
• Eastern & Oriental Hotel : If you’re looking for a historic and scenic accommodation in Penang, this is the best choice. Fringed with rich history and cultural elements, this luxurious hotel offers a lot of sophisticated rooms.
• Hotel NEO+ Penang : For travellers on a tight budget, this 3-star hotel is the answer to your needs. It’s an affordable accommodation with comfortable rooms. On top of that, it is situated close to Sunway Hotel.
• OZO George Town : This is another recommendation that provides cosy and modern rooms. It also comes with a rooftop pool that is a perfect spot to wind down after your day-to-day activities.

1. Grab Car

One of the most convenient ways to explore the island is by booking a ride through Grab Car . This is highly suggested if you want a competitive and clear pricing. To use this, you just book via the mobile app .

2. Join a Guided Tour of Penang

When it comes to cheaper transportation, the best option would be to join guided tours .

Apart from its affordability, tours are very convenient . It’s because the tour company prepares your agenda to save time and effort .

And since you’d be guided by the locals, it’s a great way to learn more about the island’s history and culture . As of this writing, there are 2 popular guided tours available in Penang – Guided Tour 1 and Guided Tour 2 .

The first option covers the Kek Lok Si temple and Penang Hill attractions . On the other hand, the second tour brings you to Georgetown .

3. Car Rental with a Professional Driver

For a more personalized trip, you may rent a car with a professional driver. This is highly suggested if you want to tailor your schedule at your own pace and discover Penang with no restrictions from tours.

Plus, this is a remarkable choice if you hate long taxi and public transportation queues . It could also be a great option for those travelling with kids or even groups of friends .

You may check out the private car services here and find out more about the current car hire prices for half and full day services.

4. Rent a Car and Drive Yourself

If you know how to drive, then you can rent a car and explore the island on your own . This is the best choice for those who want to visit the top tourist spots and even some hidden gems in no hurry .

Moreover, renting and driving a car is a commendable choice for groups and families. For reference, try to check out car rental online and see the car rental options available.

1. Rapid Penang

The Rapid Penang is one of the two airport transportation options.

This public bus ride operates from 6:00 AM to 11:15 PM , with a frequency of every 60 to 80 minutes . As to the bus fare, it’s currently priced at RM 4 per person .

If you choose this, you just ride Bus 102 from Penang Airport to Georgetown . The travel time would probably reach an hour or so .

Although this is a good choice, I do not recommend this if you have lots of luggage . It’s because the bus does not have enough space for storage .

2. Private Airport Transfer by Car or Van

If you prefer door-to-door transportation , it’s ideal that you book a private airport transfer . This is very convenient , especially for those who want seamless transportation from the airport to your hotel .

Since this is a direct transfer, you won’t have to deal with lots of stops . Plus, you can choose either a car or a van, depending on your preference .

So, try to check out the private airport transfer here and pick the vehicle that best suits your needs.

If you’ve got extra days in Malaysia, don’t hesitate to explore Genting SkyWorlds in Genting Highlands or Kuala Lumpur . These two are spectacular places that also deserve a visit.

Genting Highlands is recommended if you love theme parks, shopping malls, and casinos.

Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur is very popular because it’s the capital of the country. So, it’s filled with modern structures and cultural landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka Square, and Batu Caves.

And of course, the vibrant and diverse food options make it more exciting to visit!

Thank you for taking the time to read my complete Penang holiday itinerary . I hope this article will be a useful resource for you in planning the perfect trip to this wonderful island. 🙂

Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: Your Ideal 5 Days Trip in KL Guide

20 Best Genting SkyWorlds Rides Guaranteed to Wow You

Bangkok Itinerary: The Best 5 Day Trip Guide for Reference

1 thought on “penang itinerary: the best 3 day travel guide you’ll love”.

Thanks Josh, I must say yours is by far the best n most comprehensive guide of Penang! Thank you!

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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

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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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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 food, culture, history, taking pretty pictures for your social media, hiking, or even riding horses, there’s something for everybody to enjoy!

Check out this a fool proof list of must-see and lesser-known places.

Table of contents:

• Eat Penang Food
• Hike Up Or Ride The Train To Penang Hill (& Habitat)
• Stop By The Penang Peranakan Museum
• Wander Among The Clan Jetties Of Penang
• See The Famous Street Murals Of Penang
• Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
• Admire The Flora At Penang Botanical Gardens
• Climb Up To Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Temple
• Soak In The History Of Fort Cornwallis
• Have Fun At An Interactive Museum
• Marvel At The Architecture Of Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi Temple
• Go For A Tour At The Blue Mansion (Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion)
• Visit Penang’s Oldest Taoist Temple, Goddess Of Mercy Temple
• Surround Yourself With Nature At The Penang National Park
• Step Into The Penang Butterfly Farm (Entopia)
• Tropical Fruit Farm
• Go For A Tour Inside Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque
• Ride A Horse At Countryside Stables Penang
• Set Your Sights On Balik Pulau’s Stunning Paddy Fields
• Roam Penang’s Colorful And Lively Little India
• Peek Into The 200-Year-Old Sri Mahamariamman Temple
• Treat The Kids To Adventure Zone Theme Park
• Get Your Adrenaline Going At ESCAPE Theme Park
• Enjoy Penang’s Skyline From The Top Komtar (The Top Penang)
• Jog Or Walk Around Air Itam Dam
• Relax At The New Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park
• Watch The Sun Set At Batu Ferringhi Beach

27 Best Things To Do In Penang

Some of these are not your usual tourist attractions so pay attention!

1. Eat Penang Food

This goes without saying! Savory Malaysian dishes like assam laksa and Hokkien mee are an absolute must-try!

Local food haunts like  Chulia Street Night Market  (we personally prefer Kimberly Street and 888 Hokkien) will satisfy your needs for a one-stop location with Penang street food !

You’ll find many local favorites like lor bak,  boiled octopus and char kway teow sold at the hawker stalls along this street.

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

2. Hike Up Or Ride The Train To Penang Hill (& Habitat)

On a clear day, you can see the whole of Penang and even Langkawi from atop Penang Hill, a popular Penang tourist attraction. The night view is just as nice too!

There are numerous hiking trails of varying height and difficulty to Penang Hill. But you can take the  30-minute funicular  from Air Itam to Penang Hill if you’re not keen on hiking!

Do expect a long wait if you go during a public holiday or weekend. However,  Fast Lane  tickets are available.

• A Complete Guide On Penang Hill
• The Habitat Penang Hill (Ultimate Guide) – With Tips For Entrance Fee Discounts!

3. Stop By The Pinang Peranakan Museum

Allow a couple of hours at this stunning museum that is itself a restored building.

There are many exquisite Nyonya-Baba (Peranakan) culture exhibits inside the museum!

It costs RM25 per adult to enter but if you have more than 5 in your group, you can book a private tour for no extra charge!

What we feel about Penang Peranakan Museum .

• Location: 29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
• Contact: +604-264 2929
• Opening Hours: 9:30am–5pm

4. Wander Among The Clan Jetties Of Penang

Chew Jetty is one of the remaining traditional settlements left by Chinese immigrants. It is open to the public from 9am to 9pm to casually observe the local lifestyle.

Some of the jetties can feel very touristy with all the vendor shops. Time your visit for high tide if you want to photograph the sea.

Do respect the privacy of the families that still live here and refrain from taking photos of the house interiors and families!

Read more about each of the clan jetties in Penang .

5. See The Famous Street Murals

While you’re moving between places to visit in Penang, you can keep an eye out for these street murals !

They’re easy to spot as there’s often a line of people wanting to have a photo with the murals!

• Along Muntri Street: Girl in blue
• Armenian Street: 2 kids riding a bicycle; Children and dim sum
• Armenian Café: Old man’s face
• Lebuh Armenian: Giant orange cat
• Ah Quee Street: Boy on a motorcycle
• Cannon Street: Boy reaching up standing on a chair
• Chew Jetty: Kids in a boat
• Gat Lebuh Chulia: Kids playing basketball
• Penang Road: Man resting in trishaw

6. Visit Kek Lok Si Temple

One of the best places to visit is this large and picturesque Buddhist temple in Air Itam. Especially when the lights are on for Chinese New Year!

Go early in the day to avoid the heat and the crowds! And for RM2, you can access the pagoda for a view of the city! Prepare yourself to climb 300+ stairs for the 360° views.

Read more about our experience at Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang .

• Location: Kek Lok Si Temple, Jln Balik Pulau, 11500 Air Itam, Penang
• Contact: +604-828 3317
• Opening Hours: 8:30am–5:30pm

7. Admire The Flora At Penang Botanical Gardens

An impressive garden with numerous trails and a 50m-high waterfall, it shares a common trait with Taiping Lake Gardens :

Both are transformed abandoned quarries by past British colonial administrators.

Today, the gardens are still well kept and some of the original trees are now giants! Including the unusual Cannonball trees .

More details on Penang Botanical Gardens .

• Location: Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-226 4401
• Opening Hours: 6am–7pm
• This is where you can start your hike up to Penang Hill .

8. Climb Up To Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Temple

Not far from the botanical gardens:

Waterfall Hill Temple or Thaneer Malai as locals call it, requires visitors to climb 500+ stairs to reach the magnificent temple complex!

Because of the necessary physical effort, you’ll likely have the breath-taking views   of the surroundings to yourself!

• Location: 17, Jalan Kebun Bunga, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +6011-1003 2054
• Opening Hours: 6am-12pm, 4:30pm-9pm

9. Soak In The History Of Fort Cornwallis

Note: Moat restoration works in progress

Fort Cornwallis is another famous Penang tourist attraction for history buffs with pleasant views of the sea at the upper level!

Hence, it’s an especially popular location for sunset strolls.

The entrance fee for foreigners is quite steep at RM20 per person . But you can still admire the fort from afar.

It’s a 15-minute walk to this late 18 th century British Colonial fort from Chew Jetty.

• Location: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +6016-411 0000
• Opening Hours: 8am–11pm

10. Have Fun At An Interactive Museum

Try an interactive museum for a slice of fun for the whole family!

There are so many which provide welcome relief from the afternoon heat too! And you’re guaranteed to bring back some wacky photos for  souvenirs .

Recommended museums:

• Wonderfood Museum
• Upside Down Museum
• Penang 3D Trick Art Museum
• More museums in Penang

11. Marvel At The Architecture Of Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi Temple

For photographers and history buffs, you can visit this historical Chinese clan house – a cluster of ornate buildings that include a temple, a large hall and theatre.

Be on the lookout for evening cultural shows here. The lit courtyard against the temple architecture creates the perfect backdrop!

Read more about Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi .

• Location: 18, Cannon Square, George Town, 10450 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-261 4609
• Opening Hours: 9am–5pm

12. Go For A Tour At The Blue Mansion (Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion)

We have another architectural old-world wonder in this list!

Visitors can either choose to stay, dine (Indigo restaurant) or come for the  daily tours  at The Blue Mansion. You can book these 45-minute tours online on their site .

Take note of the tour times (11am and 2pm) and be punctual! They do require visitors to be 15 minutes early before the stated tour times.

There is no limit for the number of tour participants so try to go on a less busy day to avoid compromising on your experience there!

Read more about Blue Mansion ( Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion ).

• Location: 14, Leith St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
• Contact: +604-262 0006

13. Visit Penang’s Oldest Taoist temple, Goddess of Mercy Temple (Kuan Yin Temple)

Kuan Yin Teng as Penangites refer to it, has survived its fair share of violence during the Japanese invasion and back in the 1960s.

The still-standing roof is a testament to ancient Chinese craftsmanship !

Many devotees flock to this temple during Chinese New Year, the annual feast days for Guan Yin as well as on the Jade Emperor ‘s Birthday.

• Location: 30, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-226 2645
• Opening Hours: 8am to 6pm (hours vary during festivities and celebrations)

14. Surround Yourself With Nature At The Penang National Park (Pantai Keracut Beach)

Take a day to explore the national park when you want to get away from the busy city!

There are two main trails here – the easy coastal trek to Monkey beach or an inland jungle trek to a turtle sanctuary.

You’ll probably need  2 days  to cover all the highlights for both trails:

• Kerachut Beach (Pantai Keracut) – the turtle sanctuary and meromictic lake are here
• Monkey Beach (Teluk Duyung)
• Muka Head Lighthouse – additional steep climb from the coastal trail

See this detailed guide on Penang National Park .

Penang National Park Office:

• Location: Jalan Hassan Abas, Teluk Bahang, 11050, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-881 3530
• Opening Hours: 8am–5pm

15. Step Into The Penang Butterfly Farm (Entopia)

There’s much more than just butterflies at Entopia. This is an education and research hub that has outdoor gardens!

And an indoor discovery centre with interactive exhibits on insects and other invertebrates! You can easily spend your whole afternoon at Entopia !

• Location: No.830, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
• Contact: +604-888 8111
• Opening Hours: 9am–5pm (Closed on Wednesdays)

Read more: Penang Durian Farm – 9 Best Places To Eat Durian In Penang

16. Tropical Fruit Farm

A tour at a local fruit farm can be a surprisingly interesting and pleasant experience outdoors. It does get sunny at times, so bring a hat!

The farm spans 25 acres of organic fruit, including durian and cherries. It is not far from Entopia.

See more photos from our visit to the  Tropical Fruit Farm .

• Location:  18th Mile Stone, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050, Penang
• Contact:  +6012-497 1931
• Opening Hours:  9am–5pm

17. Go For A Tour Inside Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque

Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque extends out into the sea. This iconic building is not far from George Town too. Its RM15 million construction began in early 2000s with its official opening in 2007.

However, it is only during  high tide  that the mosque appears to be on the sea!

And if you meet the dress code, you can enter the prayer hall for a  free 30-minute tour  of the elegant mosque!

• Location: Tanjung Bungah Road, Penang Island, 11200, Penang
• Contact: +6012-4051324
• Opening Hours: 5am–9:30pm

18. Ride A Horse At Countryside Stables Penang

While far from George Town (30-40 minutes’ drive), horse riding at Countryside Stables Penang is a relaxing pastime that requires no serious commitment!

The entrance and lesson fees are affordable .

First-time riders will feel at ease with the friendly instructors, clean stables, and healthy horses! You can have a go at feeding or brushing the horses too!

• Location: Lot 10050, Jalan Sungai Burung, Kampung Sungai Burung, 11000 Balik Pulau, Penang Island
• Contact: +6012-408 0678
• Opening Hours: 1:30pm to 6pm
• Entrance Fees: RM12 (Malaysian adults), RM8 (Malaysian children 2 – 12 years old)
• Guided Horse Ride (200m): RM15 (Children), RM20 (Adult)
• Lesson Fees: RM80 (30 minutes), RM120 (60 minutes) – advanced booking required

19. Set Your Sights On Balik Pulau’s Stunning Paddy Fields

Got your own car? We recommend driving out of busy George Town for the day and escaping the touristy atmosphere for a bit.

Not only is this area of Penang quieter but it is incredibly scenic with views of the sea, many durian orchards, and paddy fields.

Speaking of paddy fields, there is one field that you should see if you’re in the area. Known simply as Balik Pulau Paddy Field, it has a giant shipping container with a mural on either side.

As you might expect, you can’t do much here other than admire the mural and take lots of photos. On the plus side, it’s completely free to visit.

Note: If the paddy field has just been cut, it’s not very pretty. Keep an eye out on social media or Google reviews to check the status of the field before going.

Read more: Love Lane Penang : What To Love About This Popular Street In George Town

20. Roam Penang’s Colorful And Lively Little India

Little India of George Town stretches over Chulia Street, Queen Street and Market Street with an abundance of currency exchange services !

It is busiest before and during Deepavali and Thaipusam!

Expect to find sarees to fit any budget with costume or gold jewellery shops to help you complete the look.

While you’re here, try authentic and  vegetarian-friendly  Indian food and snacks (NR Sweets)!

• Location: Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-250 2800
• Opening Hours: 8am–9:45pm

21. Peek Into The 200-Year-Old Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple of Queen Street is the oldest Hindu temple on the island. You’ll probably pass by it if you’re walking around Little India!

Various puja (rituals) occur daily throughout the day and during festivals when it is full of devotees!

Inside the temple, are the Hindu deities such as Lord Subramaniamx Durga and Ganapathy.

• Location: Lebuh Queen, George Town, 10450 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-2638916
• Opening Hours: 8am to 12pm, 5pm to 9.05pm

22. Treat The Kids To Adventure Zone Theme Park

Kid-friendly places to visit Penang include this air-conditioned  indoor theme park  inside  Golden Sands Resort !

It is essentially a giant jungle gym (of over 10,000 sq ft ) for kids!

Parents and guardians can join in the fun for free ! There are drop slides, a ball pen, game zones and birthday party rooms.

Don’t forget to bring socks and long-sleeved tops for everyone who’s playing!

• Location: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Tanjung Huma, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-886 1911 ext. 7874
• Opening Hours: 10 am–1 pm, 2pm–6 pm

Entrance Fees:

• Resort Guests: RM22 (2-hour session per kid), RM44 (Half-day session per kid)
• Walk-In Visitors: RM36 (2-hour session per kid)
• Entry of adults is free with children

23. Get Your Adrenaline Going At ESCAPE Theme Park

ESCAPE Theme Park has two sections – a waterpark and an adventure park! You might want to get a multi-day pass so you can try both.

This should be in your consideration for things to do in Penang with kids !

Highlights Of The Adventure Park:

• Kite Flyer (50m swing through the jungle)
• Tubby Racer (Ride a rubber tube down a slide!)
• Monkey Business (High rope obstacle course)

Highlights Of The Water Park:

• Water obstacle course
• Water slides (Banana Flip, Family Twister, Speed Racers)
• Location: 828, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: 10am–6pm, Closed on Mondays
• Entrance Fee: Day Pass:~RM113 (Child 4 – 12 years old), ~RM170 (Adult), Free (Children below 3 and seniors more than 60 years old)

Tip: Tickets are cheaper if you book more days and in advance!

Read about our experience at Escape Theme Park in Penang .

24. Enjoy Penang’s Skyline From The Top Komtar (The Top Penang)

You don’t have to suspend yourself from the side of the building to get a good look of Penang from above!

Instead, there is a glass platform (Rainbow Skywalk) that visitors can walk out on.

If you plan to check out the family-friendly indoor theme park at The Top Komtar , there is a different ticket (The Top Fun Pass) that lets you access Rainbow Skywalk multiple times in a day!

• Location: 1, Jalan Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-375 9800
• Opening Hours: 11am to 10pm (weekdays), 10am – 10pm (weekends)

Tickets are cheaper for Malaysians!

• Jurassic Research Center: RM58 (Adult), RM48 (Child/senior citizen)
• Rainbow Skywalk & Observatory Deck: RM68 (Adult), RM48 (Child/senior citizen)
• The Top Boutique Aquarium: RM38 (Adult), RM33 (Child/senior citizen)
• 3 Attraction Pass (Jurassic Research Center, The Rainbow Skywalk & Observatory, The Top Boutique Aquarium): RM75 (Adult), RM55 (Child/senior citizen)

Tip: Save 10% when you purchase tickets online one day in advance!

25. Jog Or Walk Around Air Itam Dam

Kek Lok Si is visible on the way to Air Itam Dam, the first dam in Penang !

It hardly ever gets mentioned. But nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts will appreciate it.

Locals love to frequent this scenic area for a morning or evening jog/ walk. The path around the lake is ~ 3km long with 4 to 5 slopes.

It’s a short, shaded hike up (40-50minutes) from the car park at the bottom of the hill to the dam for unbeatable views!

Early risers will be treated to the mist among the trees and cooler temperatures too.

• Location: Jalan Balik Pulau, George Town, Penang Island
• Contact: +604-509 6509

26. Relax At The Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park

A particular drain canal filled with koi at this park went viral in social media for its resemblance to clean Japanese drains.

Now, the new urban park is bringing activity back to this older part of town.

The attractive and well-maintained contemporary park features a playground for kids and hot-air balloon shaped lanterns that lend a dreamy atmosphere when evening comes!

• Location: 50, Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong, George Town, 10100 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours:  6am to 11pm

Read more: 19 Best Cafe In Penang With Great Coffee (Includes New Cafes)

27. Watch The Sun Set At Batu Ferringhi Beach

Batu Ferringhi used to be one of the best places to visit in Penang after an exhausting day exploring George Town !

But the landscape has seen much development including high-rise buildings!

Water sports bring noise to the peaceful beach and affect the water quality.

However, there are restaurants nearby that still make the beach a convenient venue for visitors to take in the sunset!

Getting To Penang Attractions Easily

If you can’t decide what the best things to do in Penang are, let us help!

Our experienced local guides will bring you around Penang to their favorite places from morning to evening!

RayTheTour offers private tours in Penang, Cameron Highlands, Ipoh as well as other towns in Perak – including Taiping! These tours can be just for one day or for multiple days.

Make bookings or inquiries via  WhatsApp .

If you prefer to get around on your own, here are the  4 Best Ways For Getting Around Penang  (With All Penang Transport Options).

And if you’re flying into Penang, you might want to read up on How To Get From Penang Airport To Georgetown  (4 Easy Ways).

Is Penang your next destination after Kuala Lumpur? We have a guide on How To Get To Penang Island From Kuala Lumpur  (KL) too.

It’s hard to run out of things to do in Penang! From museums, parks, temples, historical sites, and theme parks!

Figuring out where you want to go beforehand will help you to maximize your time in Penang. And you can use this list to help you do that!

Other posts you might like:

• Best Time To Visit Penang: When Not To Go & Special Events To Look Out For
• 15 Best Hotels In Penang For An Unforgettable Stay
• 23 Best Things To Do In Penang At Night
• Orangutan Island: A Hidden Orangutan Sanctuary In West Malaysia Close To Penang
• How To Get To Cameron Highlands From Penang (Step-by-Step Guide)

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