Introduction to Penang island
Known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, Penang is a popular tourist destination located off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. With a rich history and vibrant culture, the island offers visitors a perfect mix of natural beauty, historical sights, cultural attractions, and mouthwatering cuisine.
Penang consists of Penang Island, located just off the Malay Peninsula, as well as a coastal strip on the mainland known as Seberang Perai. The island’s capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historic architecture, temples, street art, and museums that reflect the city’s multicultural heritage.
Penang has a tropical climate, with average daily temperatures around 27°C (80°F) year-round. The best time to visit is between December and February when rainfall is lowest. April and May can be quite hot, while the wettest months are from June to November during the monsoon season.
Originally founded in 1786 by the British East India Company, Penang grew into an important trading port. Its strategic location made it a major conduit for spice trading between India and China. The influx of traders led to a unique mix of cultures, architecture, and cuisine, creating the cosmopolitan melting pot that Penang is known for today.
Whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, beach lover, or sightseeing aficionado, Penang offers an incredible diversity of experiences. From exploring street art and historic temples, to relaxing on idyllic beaches or hiking through lush rainforests, Penang has something for every kind of traveler.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Penang island
Penang is filled with fascinating sights and attractions that reflect its unique blend of cultures. Here are the top 10 attractions visitors should make sure to see in Penang:
1. Kek Lok Si Temple
The largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Lok Si Temple is a visual wonder. Its main draw is the striking seven-tier Ban Po Thar (Ten Thousand Buddhas Pagoda) pagoda as well as elaborate temple compounds decorated with lavish sculptures and shrines. Visitors can spend hours exploring the various temples and immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere.
2. Penang Hill
Rising 821 meters above George Town, Penang Hill offers spectacular views over the city and beyond. Visitors take a 6-minute funicular ride to the top where breezy hiking trails, gardens, food stalls and an owl museum await. The magical views are especially lovely at sunset when George Town lights up.
3. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
This magnificent 19th century mansion with indigo blue outer walls was built for the famous Chinese businessman Cheong Fatt Tze. Lovingly restored into a boutique hotel, its interior is even more impressive, combining Chinese designs with stained glass, Rococo decor and more. Guided tours let visitors experience the mansion’s grandeur.
4. Clan Jetties
These stilt villages extending into the sea represent Penang’s unique Chew jetty clan communities. Visitors can stroll along wooden boardwalks observing homes, temples, and workshops while soaking in insights into this distinct culture. Sites like Chew Jetty are central to Penang’s living heritage.
5. Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Dedicated to the unique culture of the Peranakans or Straits Chinese, this opulent green mansion dazzles with its mix of Chinese and European architecture and decor. Excellent guided tours provide a glimpse into lavish Peranakan life and customs through rooms filled with antiques, beaded slippers and more.
6. Kapitan Keling Mosque
Built around 1800, the Kapitan Keling Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Penang. Its striking Indian-Muslim architecture incorporates domes, minarets and arched colonnades in a captivating blend. Visitors can view the exterior and interior during free guided tours to admire the still functioning mosque.
7. Batu Ferringhi Beach
Famed for its soft sand, swaying palms and bustling night bazaar, Batu Ferringhi Beach offers the classic Penang beach experience. Water sports like parasailing add to the fun while luxury resorts provide excellent service. Come evening, head to the night market to pick up souvenirs after watching the sunset.
8. Penang National Park
Penang National Park protects pristine beaches, wetlands and rainforests in northwestern Penang Island. Hiking trails wind past scenic beaches, mangroves and jungles where monkeys abound. Guided tours let visitors discover the park’s wealth of exotic flora and fauna while enjoying the serene natural beauty.
9. Penang Street Art
In recent years, Penang has embraced street art in George Town’s old quarter. Vibrant murals adorn walls, depicting everything from local culture to famous figures. Finding the art scattered down alleys and lanes makes exploring George Town even more fascinating.
10. Tropical Spice Garden
This lush garden offers a tropical spice haven of over 500 species of flora. Visitors can join educational tours around the garden to learn about spices, fruit trees and exotic plants. Demonstrations like glassblowing and batik painting add to the unique, sensory experience. Don’t miss sampling the spices and teas too!
Things to Do in Penang
Penang is filled with cultural attractions, natural beauty, fantastic cuisine and modern amenities – there’s something here for every type of traveler.
Food Tours
Experience Penang’s world famous cuisine on a food tour. Taste your way through local dishes like char kway teow, curry mee, and asam laksa while learning about the rich mix of Malay, Chinese and Indian culinary influences. Popular areas to explore include George Town, Little India and Gurney Drive Hawker Center.
Cultural Tours
Take a guided tour to learn about Penang’s history as a spice trading outpost and British colony. Visit top cultural sights like the Pinang Peranakan Museum to immerse yourself in Baba-Nyonya culture. Walking tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town introduce you to the area’s unique architecture and heritage buildings.
Nature Tours
Enjoy Penang’s beautiful natural scenery with a nature tour. Hike through the jungle trails and spot wildlife at Penang National Park. Ride a boat down Sungai Kerian to go mangrove cruising. Or take a guided tour of a working spice farm to learn how spices are planted and processed.
Outdoor Activities
Rent a bicycle and cruise along Teluk Bahang coast or Batu Ferringhi Beach. Hike up Penang Hill for stunning panoramic views. Join a kayaking tour to paddle along the coastline or through the mangroves. Go on an ATV trail ride to explore more of the island’s rugged interior landscapes.
Shopping
Browse the stalls at the lively Chowrasta Market for souvenirs and snacks. Check out the cute cafes and boutique shops at Straits Quay. Go on an antique treasure hunt at places like Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi and Cheah Kongsi. The street art and murals around George Town also make great photo backdrops.
Nightlife
Watch cultural shows like bangsawan theatre or Indian dance at Eastern & Oriental Hotel. Bar hop along vibrant strips like Upper Penang Road, Gurney Drive or Beach Street. Enjoy sunset views at a beachfront bar in Batu Ferringhi. Or chill at the open air cafes in the Clan Jetties over the harbor.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Penang is a great destination for families traveling with kids. There are many attractions that will keep children entertained and engaged during their visit.
One of the top family-friendly attractions in Penang is the **Penang Bird Park**. Located in Seberang Jaya, this is one of the largest bird parks in Asia with over 300 species of birds. Kids will love spotting colorful parrots, pelicans, ostriches, and other exotic birds in the aviaries and open-concept exhibits. Make sure to catch one of the bird shows where birds fly overhead and perform tricks.
The newly opened **Penang Toy Museum** at Batu Ferringhi is another fun stop, especially on a rainy day. It houses an impressive collection of over 120,000 toys and collectibles from the 1950s to 1990s, spread across thematic zones. Kids can check out Barbie dolls, Star Wars figurines, teddy bears, and more nostalgic toys while learning about the history of these iconic playthings.
For some wet and wild fun, visit the **Escape Theme Park** located on Teluk Bahang Beach. This adventure and water park has thrill rides like boomerang roller coasters and a 5D simulator, along with water slides and splash areas for cooling off on a hot day. Ride one of the tube slides together as a family or let the kids loose in the water play zones.
To get a taste of Penang’s tropical fruits, schedule a tour of the **Tropical Fruit Farm**. This working fruit orchard grows over 250 types of tropical and sub-tropical fruit trees. The kids can sample unusual fruits like durian, rambutan, mangosteen, and more on the guided tour. Then cool down with fresh fruit ice cream!
With these fun and family-friendly attractions, kids of all ages will have a blast discovering Penang alongside their parents. The mix of interactive activities and learning opportunities will keep the whole family entertained during their visit.
Best Beaches in Penang
Penang is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia. Many of the top beaches are located on the north coast of Penang Island.
Batu Ferringhi
Batu Ferringhi is Penang’s most popular beach. Located on the northwestern tip of the island, it’s a prime beach destination with plenty of resorts, restaurants and shopping. The long stretch of golden sand is great for swimming and water sports. Walk along the beach promenade and take in the vibrant nightlife around the area.
Tanjung Bungah
Tanjung Bungah is located between Batu Ferringhi and George Town. It’s less developed than Batu Ferringhi with more of a local neighborhood vibe. Still, you’ll find waterfront resorts and seafood restaurants lining the coast. The water is calm and good for swimming. Tanjung Bungah is also known for its reef that’s popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Teluk Bahang
Teluk Bahang is situated at the northwestern end of Penang Island near Penang National Park. Here you’ll find a peaceful stretch of beach that feels more off the beaten path. One of the draws is the Damai Beach Resort with a long stretch of sandy beach. Nearby, you can visit Tropical Spice Garden and Tropical Fruit Farm.
Monkey Beach
To reach the remote Monkey Beach, you need to take a 30-minute hike through Penang National Park or charter a boat. It takes more effort to reach, but it’s worth it to experience this idyllic swath of white sand bordered by lush rainforest. You may even spot the resident monkeys that gave the beach its name. The water is generally ideal for swimming and snorkeling too.
Street Art in George Town
The streets of George Town are an open air art gallery, filled with colorful and thought-provoking street art. This explosion of murals and street art started in 2012, when Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic was commissioned to paint a series of murals for the George Town Festival. His murals depicting everyday life scenes with an imaginative twist, like kids riding a bicycle formed out of real bicycles or a man peeping out of a closed wooden window, quickly went viral and put Penang’s street art scene on the map.
Since then, the city has embraced street art as a way to revitalize and bring attention to its historical core. Today there are over 50 steel wire, mirror and 3D murals scattered around the city. Some of the most popular murals include the iconic Kids on Bicycle at Armenian Street, Dancers by Gabriel Pitcher on Cannon Street, and Wings of Hope on Lebuh Pantai.
The best way to explore Penang’s street art scene is to take a walking tour. Guided tours like the George Town Heritage Trail offer commentary and insight into the different murals as you walk from site to site. You can also pick up a free map at the Penang Tourism Information Centre and explore the murals yourself. Focus your wanderings around Armenian Street, Cheah Kongsi, and Beach Street for the most abundant collection of murals.
Street art continues to evolve in George Town, so even repeat visitors will find new creative works each time they return. The murals have become integral to experiencing the culture, heritage, and energy of this rejuvenated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Food and Dining in Penang
Penang is considered one of the food capitals of Asia, renowned for its incredible mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. The streets of George Town are filled with aromatic hawker stalls serving up delicious local specialties.
Hawker Stalls
The best way to experience Penang’s dynamic food culture is by wandering the labyrinth of hawker stalls throughout the city. Some of the top stalls to check out include:
– Loh Bak at Siam Road – Famous for their fried rolls stuffed with vegetables, meat, or seafood. Don’t miss their signature soy sauce minced pork version.
– Air Itam Laksa near Kek Lok Si Temple – Their fragrant laksa soup with thick rice noodles is regarded as one of the best in Penang.
– Nasi Kandar Line Clear at Penang Road – Open 24 hours, this popular stall serves biryani rice and curries. Great options for late night eats.
– Red Garden Food Paradise – A hawker center with over 200 stalls offering Chinese, Malay, and Indian fare all in one spot.
Must-Try Dishes
Penang’s diverse culinary influences have resulted in some mouthwatering signature dishes you have to try:
– Char Koay Teow – Flat rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, cockles, Chinese sausage, and eggs.
– Assam Laksa – A tangy fish-based soup with rice vermicelli and shredded vegetables.
– Nasi Lemak – Coconut rice served with fried anchovies, peanuts, and a spicy sambal sauce.
– Hokkien Mee – Thick egg noodles doused in an umami prawn broth with crunchy pork lard cracklings.
– Rojak – An eclectic fruit and vegetable salad in a thick, sweet and spicy shrimp paste dressing.
Little India
The area around Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Pasar is Penang’s Little India, filled with spice shops and restaurants serving authentic Indian cuisine. Head here to find delicious curries, roti canai, thosai, biryani rice, and refreshing lassis. Some top spots include Sri Ananda Bahwan, Kapitan’s, and Restoran Vasudevan.
Best Restaurants
Beyond the hawker fare, some of Penang’s top restaurants serving refined local specialties include:
– Kebaya at Seven Terraces – Contemporary Peranakan cuisine in a restored heritage building.
– Hong Kong Chef on Lebuh Presgrave – Serves authentic Cantonese classics in a relaxed setting.
– The Northam Beach Cafe by the sea – Local dishes with a focus on Penang laksa and fresh seafood.
– David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terraces – Afternoon English tea and Malaysian favorites on a scenic colonial-era hilltop estate.
Where to Stay in Penang
Penang offers a wide variety of accommodation options for travelers, from luxury beach resorts to budget guesthouses. The main areas where most tourists stay are in George Town, Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah and Bayan Lepas.
George Town:
George Town is the capital city of Penang and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where you’ll find most of Penang’s main historic attractions, restaurants and nightlife. Staying in George Town allows easy exploration on foot.
– Pro: Most central location, walkable to key sights, restaurants and nightlife. Immersive cultural experience.
– Con: Can be noisy and busy. Limited beach access.
Popular areas to stay in George Town are around Lebuh Acheh, Lebuh Melayu and Love Lane. There’s a mix of boutique hotels, restored shophouses, guesthouses and hostels. Some recommended options are Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Seven Terraces, Ren I Tang Heritage Inn.
Batu Ferringhi:
Batu Ferringhi is a beach resort area about 15km from George Town. It has a laidback, tropical vibe with luxury resorts lining the sandy beach.
– Pro: Great beach access, water sports and relaxation. Night market and dining options.
– Con: Far from main sights in George Town. Can be crowded.
Some of the high-end luxury resorts in Batu Ferringhi include Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Hard Rock Hotel Penang, and Holiday Inn Resort Penang. There are also more budget friendly hotels and guesthouses available.
Tanjung Bungah:
Tanjung Bungah is located between George Town and Batu Ferringhi. It offers easier access to both areas.
– Pro: More residential vibe, yet convenient access to both Batu Ferringhi Beach and George Town.
– Con: Limited dining and nightlife options. Minimal attractions.
Tanjung Bungah is a popular area for more local-style Penang accommodation. Some options include Copthorne Orchid Hotel and Hotel Seri Malaysia.
Bayan Lepas:
Bayan Lepas is near the Penang International Airport. It’s a good area for short stays or business travelers.
– Pro: Close to the airport. Shopping malls and dining options.
– Con: Far from main attractions. Primarily a residential suburb.
Some of the hotels in Bayan Lepas include Jen Hotel, G Hotel Kelawai, and Olive Tree Hotel.
Overall George Town offers the most cultural immersion and easiest access to key sights, while Batu Ferringhi is ideal for beach stays. Tanjung Bungah and Bayan Lepas offer more local experiences and convenience depending on your priorities.
Getting Around Penang
Getting around Penang Island is easy thanks to the efficient public transportation system and variety of transportation options available.
Bus
Rapid Penang buses offer an affordable and convenient way to explore Penang. The local buses serve most major attractions and neighborhoods on the island. The Central Area Transit (CAT) free shuttle bus is useful for getting around the UNESCO heritage zone of George Town.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available around the island, especially in tourist areas like Batu Ferringhi and George Town. They can be hailed on the street or booked via Grab or local taxi apps. Though metered taxis are affordable, be sure to negotiate the fare in advance for longer distances.
Trishaw
Taking a ride in a colorful trishaw is a fun way to experience George Town. Trishaws here are pedal-powered and mainly cater to tourists. Fares are negotiable, with short rides costing RM10-20. Agree on the fare beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.
Rental Car
Having your own car allows you to explore the island at your own pace. Major rental companies have offices at the airport and around the island. Be prepared for congested traffic conditions in George Town. Parking is also limited in the city center.
Ferry
A ferry service connects Penang Island to Butterworth on the mainland. The ferry terminals are next to the bus station at Weld Quay in George Town. Ferries depart every 10-15 minutes from 5:30am to midnight daily. The 20-minute ride provides great sea views.
Side Trips from Penang
Penang makes an excellent base to take quick getaways and day trips to explore more of Malaysia. Here are some of the top side trips to consider from Penang:
Langkawi
This tropical island paradise lies off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, not far from Penang. Famed for its beaches, geopark, and duty-free shopping, Langkawi offers a relaxing beach vacation vibe. Take a day trip to explore attractions like the SkyBridge or Underwater World Langkawi, or stay a few nights to really soak up the island’s natural beauty and laidback atmosphere.
Ipoh
The capital of Perak, Ipoh offers charming colonial architecture, cave temples, and excellent Malaysian and Chinese cuisine. Visit the Old Town for vintage shop houses, take a train on the nostalgic KTM railway, explore Sam Poh Tong temple, or taste renowned Ipoh white coffee. Ipoh is less than 2 hours from Penang by bus or train.
Cameron Highlands
With its rolling hills, tea plantations, and colonial heritage, a trip to the Cameron Highlands feels like stepping into another world. Go trekking through mossy forests, visit a tea plantation and factory, or shop for fresh fruits and vegetables at a roadside stall. Cameron Highlands offers a nice highland retreat from Penang’s heat and humidity.
Kuala Lumpur
As Malaysia’s capital and largest city, Kuala Lumpur makes an exciting side trip to contrast with Penang’s laidback island lifestyle. Shop till you drop at gleaming malls, visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, explore Little India and Chinatown, or enjoy the city’s buzzing nightlife. The flight from Penang to KL is under an hour, or opt for a 5-hour drive or overnight train.
