Live Your Best Lives
Penang, comprising the island of Penang and mainland Seberang Perai, was the first place in Malaysia to be designated a city. Penang, a small, turtle-shaped island situated across the sea from the Malay Peninsula, is known for its lush greenery and verdant vegetation, earning it the nickname "Emerald of the Indian Ocean."
A trip to Penang requires two things: a relaxed heart and a strong stomach. A relaxed heart is suited to Penang's slow pace of life, while a strong stomach is prepared for Penang's tantalizing culinary scene. Lonely Planet magazine ranked Penang as the world's top foodie destination in 2014, demonstrating its culinary appeal. Besides the highly acclaimed char kway teow, Penang Hokkien mee, and laksa, the diverse menu here is enough to keep you eating something new for a week.
The fusion of diverse cultures creates a multifaceted Penang, evoking the gentle rhythms of a South Sea girl and the sentimental sentiments of Anna and the King. Even if you've never traveled abroad, or even if you only know how to say "yes," "bye-bye," and "thank you" in a foreign language, Penang will still make you feel free and at ease!
June to September every year is the best time to travel to Penang. The temperature is not too high and there is not much rain during this period.
George Town
George Town's diverse culture makes it a must-see destination for tourists, and many of Penang's famous attractions are also located here, including Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple. In recent years, one of the reasons why travelers visit Penang is the various street art works scattered throughout George Town. These murals and wire cartoons have become a unique landscape in the city.
Longshantang Qiu Company
Penang’s most artistically valuable ancestral hall. The carvings inside and outside the hall are all from famous Chinese artists. This is a place not to be missed for those who love Chinese culture and art.
Old Gurney Drive Clock Tower
The clock tower was built in 1897 by a Chinese businessman named Xie from Penang to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's reign. The clock tower is more than a century old and is a historical building on Penang Island.
Recommended number of days for a visit: 2-3 days
Penang, founded in 1786 by the British East India Company, served as a major trading port connecting Southeast Asia to Europe. Its capital, George Town, reflects a unique cultural blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and colonial heritage, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Penang is on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Visitors can reach it via Penang International Airport, ferry services from the mainland, or by car/bus via the Penang Bridge. Taxis, buses, and e-hailing services are available for local travel; George Town is very walkable.
Most attractions open between 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is from December to February when the weather is cooler and drier, avoiding the monsoon season (October–November).
Most outdoor attractions and street areas are free. Temple entrances and some parks may charge nominal fees (1–10 MYR). Tickets can be purchased on-site; for Penang Hill and The Habitat, online booking is available.
For Penang Hill funicular train, The Habitat, and popular cultural tours, booking a few days in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist periods.
3–5 days are recommended to explore George Town, temples, hills, beaches, and national parks.
Yes, guided tours in English, Mandarin, and Malay are widely available for George Town, Penang Hill, and cultural attractions. Some attractions offer audio guides in multiple languages.
Day 1: George Town heritage walk, street art, and local food. Day 2: Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple. Day 3: Penang National Park and Batu Ferringhi beach.
Evening street food tours, night markets at Batu Ferringhi, and illuminated temple visits are popular. Penang Hill sometimes offers special night events.
George Town and popular tourist spots are busiest during weekends and school holidays. Weekdays and non-peak months (March–June) are less crowded.
Facilities are generally available at major attractions, hotels, and malls. Street areas may have limited public toilets, so planning is recommended.
Most urban attractions and Penang Hill funicular are accessible for elderly and children. Some heritage streets have uneven paths, so mobility-challenged visitors may need assistance.
Cash is widely used in hawker centers and small shops. Cards and e-wallet payments are accepted in hotels, malls, and restaurants.
George Town and Batu Ferringhi offer a wide range of eateries, from street hawker food to high-end cafes and seafood restaurants.
Yes, Halal food is common, and vegetarian/vegan options are available in cafes and Indian/Malay restaurants.
Accommodations range from luxury resorts like Eastern & Oriental Hotel to boutique hotels and budget hostels in George Town and Batu Ferringhi.
Nearby attractions include Penang Butterfly Farm, Penang Peranakan Mansion, Tropical Spice Garden, and Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion.
Souvenirs include local snacks, batik textiles, Pewter products, handmade crafts, and Penang-themed memorabilia.
Visitors can use buses, taxis, or e-hailing services to travel around the island. To continue to other Malaysian destinations, Penang International Airport and ferry services are available.
