tourist attraction in georgetown penang

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

An abundance of things to do in George Town Penang means you can easily spend a full day here!

Most attractions are accessible on foot. Or by trishaw! And many revolve around the history present at this  UNESCO World Heritage zone .

There’s street art, Little India, hidden temples and more to discover including places to try the best of Penang food so start planning your trip!

Table Of Contents:

• Gaze Upon Georgetown’s Historical Colonial Landmarks
• Admire The Symmetry Of St. George’s Anglican Church
• Enter The Stately Kapitan Keling Mosque For A Visit
• See Georgetown’s Places Of Worship
• Discover The Clan Community Of Penang
• Visit A Penang Museum
• Take Delight In Peranakan Culture
• Satisfy Your Taste Buds With George Town’s Famous Food
• Seek Out Penang Street Art
• Treat Yourself At A Hipster Café
• Have A Bird’s Eye View Of Penang From KOMTAR
• Shop At A Penang Mall In George Town
• Stay Out Late In Georgetown

13 Fun Things To Do In George Town, Penang

1. gaze upon george town’s historical colonial landmarks.

Those keen on finding the architectural wonders of historic George Town should hang around the north-east coast corner of Penang Island.

You can see these landmarks as part of the Penang heritage trail which starts from Armenian Street .

Continue to the clan jetties and up along the coast to where Pengkalan Weld (Weld Jetty) is.

Make a loop by turning west to Gurney Drive and back down through Little India .

1.1. Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower

This beautiful landmark features Moorish design and has 3 stories to it.

As the name suggests, the clock tower was built by a local Chinese businessman to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubiliee (1897).

PS: It still works.

Location: Lebuh Light, George Town, 10450 George Town, Penang Island

1.2. Penang Town Hall or Penang City Hall

Penang Town Hall stands out from its neighboring landmarks with its pleasant yellow exterior. It overlooks a field and is roughly 120 years old at this point (built in 1903).

While the public cannot enter this building, there is a Penang city exhibition room just for tourists on the immediate left at the entrance.

Location: Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang

1.3. Fort Cornwallis

Entrance fees are compulsory (RM10) to enter the compound, but you can also see the fort from afar by walking around it.

This is the place to learn more about Francis Light and his contribution to Penang. And also, to get some selfies with the few remaining cannons!

Full article on Fort Cornwallis in George Town .

• Location: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: 8am to 11pm
• Contact: +6016-4110000

2. Admire The Symmetry Of St. George’s Anglican Church

Taking inspiration from its namesake in Madras (Chennai ), 19 th century St. George’s Anglican Church was built in 1817 with sand and limestone.

Miraculously, much of the church retains the original structures and material except for the tile floor and flat roof. The latter had to be replaced a few times!

In 2007 , the church received much needed funds from the government with recognition as a national treasure !

Location: 1, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island

• Next to Penang State Museum & Art Gallery
• There is a Heritage Centre in the premises. Open between Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 4pm
• The church is closed on public holidays, Fridays and Sundays ! Or if there is wedding/ funeral.
• Church goers can go for the service on Wednesdays (9:30am) and Sundays (8:30am to 10:30am).

3. Enter The Stately Kapitan Keling Mosque For A Visit

Kapitan Keling Mosque dates to the  early 19 th  century . It was built by  Indian Muslims  who came to Penang under the  East India Company .

The distinguished mosque is right at the heart of the chulias (Tamil Muslim neighborhood).

Its current exterior features  Indo-Moorish  influence and is recent relative to its origins with expansion works taking place in  1930 .

Location: 14, Jalan Buckingham, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island

4. See Georgetown’s Places Of Worship

Aside from Kapitan Keling Mosque, there are other places of worship:

The oldest of them are in or close to Little India Penang – Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Kuan Yin Temple (Goddess of Mercy Temple).

And further from Georgetown in Pulau Tikus , you’ll find the impressive hilltop Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple and the oldest Thai temple in Penang (Wat Chayamangkalaram)!

4.1. Sri Mahamariamman Temple

• Location: Lebuh Queen, George Town, 10450 George Town, Penang Island

4.2. Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

• Location: 17, Jalan Kebun Bunga, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Penang Island

4.3. Kuan Yin Temple

• Location: 30, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: 5am to 6pm (hours vary during festivities and celebrations)

4.4. Wat Chayamangkalaram

Location: 17, Lorong Burma, Pulau Tikus, 10250 George Town, Penang Island

5. Discover The Clan Community Of Penang

In the 19 th century , many mainland Chinese came to Penang to work in the then-booming trading industry.

As they became more comfortable in Penang, they brought their families and extended families.

They preferred to stay together, forming their own little communities within Penang.

To this date, visitors can come and see the preserved clan houses in Georgetown!

5.1. Clan Jetties Of Penang

• Location: Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: 9am to 9pm
• Contact: +6019-593 5333

Read more about Clan Jetties of Penang .

5.2. Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

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

Read more about Khoo Kongsi .

5.3. Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi

• Location: 8, Lebuh Armenian, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: 9:30am to 4:30pm
• Contact: +604-261 3837

6. Visit A Museum

Penang has a surprising number of wonderful museums showcasing Penang’s history and culture! There’s even a museum that is dedicated to popular food ( Wonderfood Museum )!

For some good old fun, you can try novelty galleries like the Penang 3D Trick Art Museum and Ghost Museum ! Other museums in Penang .

7. Take Delight In Peranakan Culture

The Perankans or the Baba-Nyonya are a unique people descended from Chinese settlers in the Malay Peninsula and Indonesian Archipelago.

They are known for their delicious Nyonya cuisine . And the wealthy folk back in 19 th century Penang loved to emulate their eclectic colorful style into their own houses!

A couple of these houses have been restored and are now galleries with daily tours !

7.1. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)

Tours have a duration of about 45 minutes. The maximum number of participants per tour session is 42 pax. Online reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment.

• Location: 14, Leith St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
• Opening Hours (Tour slots): 11am to 12pm; 2pm to 3pm
• Contact: +604-262 0006
• Entrance Fee: RM25 (Adult), RM13 (Child between 6-12 years old); Free evening tours for guests

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

7.2. Pinang Peranakan Mansion

• Location: 29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
• Opening Hours: 9:30am to 5pm
• Contact: +604-264 2929
• Entrance Fee: RM20 (Adult)

Related: Penang Peranakan Mansion: Make A Trip To This Worthy Historical Museum

8. Satisfy Your Taste Buds With George Town’s Famous Food

Don’t forget to try some Penang food while you wander the streets of George Town!

Chulia Street Night Market is open from the evening onwards. It consists of roadside stalls selling all the quintessential Malaysian street food . Like popiah, char kway teow , apom and more!

And you’ll have to go early to beat the queues at the original stall of Penang Road Famous Teochew Cendol (and Penang asam laksa )! But it’s worth it!

Read more: Penang Famous Cendol – 9 Best Cendol In Penang That You Can Try Today!

9. Seek Out Penang Street Art

A full day may not be enough to see all the iron sculptures ( Welden Iron Wall Caricatures ) and street art in Penang !

Let alone all the ones by famed Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevic !

Some Street Art By Ernest Zacharevic

• Boy On Motorbike
• Little Boy With Pet Dinosaur

Then there’s Art Lane Penang too– a hidden gallery of wall murals by local and international artists!

Another collection of paintings around Georgetown is part of an animal awareness project featuring cats ( 101 Lost Kittens )!

But most recent was the  Penang International  Container Art Festival  (PICAF) which ran began in  January to end of May 2020 . You can still see some of painted shipping containers around Penang.

10. Treat Yourself At A Hipster Café

Penang has a wonderful cafe scene and is thus a tempting haven for coffee addicts and photographers! Or as an in-between break from local food (and the heat).

There are many cafes to choose from in George Town alone! Most serve a mixed menu consisting of Western and Asian cuisine .

Some specialize in coffee while others focus on cakes and desserts !

Cafes To Try:

• Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company
• Kafka Penang
• Dolce Dessert
• More Options For The Best Cafes In Georgetown Penang
• More Penang Cafes Including Batu Ferringhi And Ayer Itam

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

11. Have A Bird’s Eye View Of Penang From KOMTAR

KOMTAR Penang like Penang Hill , is high enough to offer aerial views of the city via a glass bridge ( Rainbow Skywalk )!

A  full-day pass  means you can try the main attractions at KOMTAR without having to buy individual tickets!

Other Main Attractions At KOMTAR :

• 7D Discovery Motion Theater
• Jurassic Research Center (Outdoor)
• Penang Boutique Aquarium
• The Top Boutique Aquarium
• Ocean Explorer

And if you can summon the courage, you can try  The Gravityz  experience which will give you the opportunity to face your fear of heights!

Read more: 21 Fun Things To Do In Penang With Kids (Ultimate Guide) + Food & Hotels

12. Shop At A Mall In George Town

In the mood for shopping in Penang? While it may no longer be a duty-free state like Langkawi, Penang shopping malls still hold appeal for the masses!

The best time to go is during the nationwide sales in August !

Queensbay Mall is a one-stop dream with more than 400 retail stores! But it’s at Bayan Lepas which is a 20 minutes’ drive from Georgetown.

Alternatively, you can visit shiny high-end Gurney Paragon mall along with its larger neighbor, Gurney Plaza !

Read more: 11 Best Massage In Penang – For Full Body & Foot Massage

13. Stay Out Late In George Town

Just cause it’s evening doesn’t mean the fun’s over! See some landmarks (e.g. Fort Cornwallis, Cheah Kongsi or The Blue Mansion ) when they are lit up!

Dive into the hawker stall experience at Red Garden Food Paradise, Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls (Chulia Street Pasar Malam), Presgrave Corner or Kimberly Street!

And later, recount the day over a beer or cocktail at the bars of Chulia Street and Love Lane !

• Micke’s Place At Love Lane
• Chulia Court The Tavern

Read more: Penang Itinerary 3 Days : How To Get The Most Out Of Your Penang Trip In

Getting To Penang George Town Attractions

Even though it’s easy to navigate on your feet in George Town:

Having a local around to show you Penang can be eye-opening! With the added advantage of a flexible schedule and comfortable private transport with air conditioning.

Private tour service, RayTheTour has these benefits and more:

• We use MPVs and vans
• Reliable tour guides who speak English or Chinese
• Tours to Ipoh, Taiping and Cameron Highlands
• Pick up or drop off from any Penang hotel or the airport during your tour with us

To book, head to our WhatsApp .

Further reading:

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

With so many things to do in George Town, Penang, you’ll probably want to extend your trip!

Marvel at beautiful buildings and learn their history. Savor the local cuisine or chill at one of many cafes! Pop into a museum or two if you want to escape the heat or rain.

And keep your eyes peeled for street art every time you turn a corner.

Other posts you might like:

• 23 Best Things To Do In Penang At Night
• 13 Best Penang Souvenirs To Pick Up
• 15 Best Penang Hotels To Stay At
• Best Time To Visit Penang : When Not To Go & Special Events To Look Out For
• 9 Best Places To Eat Durian In Penang

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Things To Do In Georgetown Penang

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1. Penang Hill

5 km from city center 1 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

A natural amalgamation of pleasant weather, luxurious vegetation, breathtaking views, colonial vibe and the foresty landscape is what you call as Penang Hill. Located in Air Itam suburb, Penang Hill is a lovely little hill station in Penang Island, Malaysia.

2. Kek Lok Si Temple

2 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Situated on the hilltop at Air Itam near Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si is one of the largest Chinese Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. Comprising of monasteries, temples, prayer halls, and gardens, the temple complex is a chief pilgrimage centre for Buddhists from Philippines and Singapore.

3. Blue Mansion

3 km from city center 3 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a majestic UNESCO Heritage Site located in Georgetown, Penang (Malaysia). It is often known as the Blue Mansion because of its distinctive blue-coloured outer walls and external decorations.

4. Batu Ferringhi

8 km from city center 4 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Batu Ferringhi is Penang's popular beach destination, home to several five-star hotels and a 4-km stretch of white sandy beaches. The major highlight here is the night market and the varied water sports.

5. Penang Botanic Gardens

2 km from city center 5 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Penang Botanic Gardens, also called the Waterfall Gardens, is located on the Jalan Air Terjun Road in George Town. The landscaped gardens is popular for housing the indigenous and exotic plant species.

6. Penang War Museum

17 km from city center 6 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Penang War Museum is a former British military fortress which once served as the site for the legendary Battle of Penang against the Japanese army. Situated in Bukit Batu Maung on Penang's southern coast, it now serves as a museum gaining fame as Southeast Asia's largest war museum. It is also dubbed as one of Asia's most haunted sites.

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7. Sri Mariamman Temple

4 km from city center 7 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The popular Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang. Also known as Queen Street Indian Temple, the highlight of the temple is the exquisite carving of various Gods and Goddesses over its facade and entrance gate.

8. Penang State Museum & Art Gallery

8 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Penang State Museum and Art Gallery dedicated to modern and contemporary is a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tucked on the Farquhar Street of George Town. it is considered to be one of Malaysia's best presented and well-maintained museums.

9. Street of Harmony

4 km from city center 9 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Located in George Town, the Street of Harmony represents the confluence of different religions and the coming together of distinct people in harmony in just one kilometre. Constructed in the 18th century, it has the worship places of all the four religions – Christianity (St. George’s Church), Taoism (Goddess of Mercy Temple), Hinduism (Sri Mariamman Temple) and Islam (Kapitan Keling Mosque).

10. Clan Jetties of Penang

4 km from city center 10 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Clan Jetties of Penang is a traditional overwater settlement that has been created by Chinese immigrants who came to Malaysia. The six villages house distinct Chinese clans, the Chew Jetty being the most tourist-friendly and famous.

11. Kapitan Keling Mosque

4 km from city center 11 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Standing with the pious spirit and magnificent architecture since the 19th century, Kapitan Keling Mosque is a beautiful place of worship at the Jalan Buckingham, George Town. The largest mosque in the city, it is part of the World Heritage Site of George Town.

12. Camera Museum

3 km from city center 12 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Step into the world of cameras at Georgetown's Camera Museum. The two-storey shophouse building of the museum is a highlight in itself. Displaying around 1000 vintage came and accessories, the museum is divided into Pinhole Room, Dark Room and Obscura Room.

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13. Khoo Kongsi

4 km from city center 13 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Khoo Kongsi, also known as Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi is one of the largest clan temple-cum-house of the Hokkien clan. A major attraction in the city, the clan temple complex sits in a granite paved square housing 19th-century rowhouse, a traditional theatre and an authentic association building.

14. Pinang Peranakan Mansion

4 km from city center 14 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion, also known as the Babas and Nonyas, is a two storey treasure trove of historical antiques and artefacts, making it one of the most unique museums of Malaysia.

15. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

3 km from city center 15 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a majestic UNESCO Heritage Site located in Georgetown, Penang (Malaysia). Once the private residence of Cheong Ho, it now serves as a boutique hotel and museum. It is often known as the Blue Mansion because of its distinctive blue-coloured outer walls and external decorations.

16. Khoo Kongsi

4 km from city center 16 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Khoo Kongsi, also known as Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi is one of the largest clan temple-cum-house of the Hokkien clan. It’s located in Georgetown, which is the capital city of the Malaysian state of Penang.

17. Penang Bird Park

11 km from city center 17 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Located in Tanjung Bungah, Penang Bird Park is home to more than 300 different species of birds, across the globe. It also houses birds from Malaysia itself. The environs are made to look extremely natural so that every bird feels right at home. Apart from birds, the park also takes care of turtles, deer, snakes, etc.

18. Chulia Street

18 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Chulia Street, also known as Lebuh Chulia, is one of the oldest roads of George Town, Penang. The street is famous for its food and offers a lot of variety with hawker stalls and local cuisines.

19. Made in Penang Interactive Museum

19 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Made in Penang Interactive Museum is a trick art museum with a vast collection of 3D art and murals to bring life to creativity. This two-storey museum features works of local Penangite artists that describes the spirit of Penang via its wall canvases, miniature dioramas and 3D interactive trick arts.

20. Dharmikarama Burmese Temple

1 km from city center 20 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Formerly known as Nandy Moloh Burmese Temple, the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple stands shining on the lands of Georgetown, Penang. Crowned amongst one of the oldest Burmese Buddhist Temple in Malaysia, it is famed for housing the huge marble Buddha statue and a 200 years old well.

21. Kek Lok Si Temple

21 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Situated on the hilltop at Air Itam near Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si is one of the largest Chinese Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. It is a chief pilgrimage centre for Buddhists from Philippines and Singapore.

22. Clan Jetties

4 km from city center 22 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Clan Jetties of Penang is a traditional settlement that has been created by Chinese immigrants who came to Malaysia. The Clan Jetties are basically a complete village above water that houses people from the Chinese Clans.

23. Kuan Yin Temple

4 km from city center 23 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Kuan Yin Temple, or the Kuan Yin Teng in Georgetown, Penang is devoted to the Goddess of Mercy and is one of the main centers of worship for the Chinese Taoists in the city. The temple is also home to the worship of Ma Chor Ooh, the patron saint of seafarers who was deeply regarded by early Chinese settlers.

24. Penang Hill

5 km from city center 24 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

If you want to view all of Penang from a great height, don't miss out on Penang Hill, also known as Bukit Bendera, Penang's first hill station.

25. Gurney Plaza

1 km from city center 25 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Gurney Plaza is a nine-story shopping mall with various international brands, retail shops, entertainment centers, and restaurants. It is located in Georgetown, Penang, at Gurney Drive and is one of the major retail and entertainment centres in Penang.

26. Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

1 km from city center 26 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Formerly known as Nandy Moloh Burmese Temple, the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple is one of the oldest Burmese Buddhist Temple in Malaysia. It is famed for housing the huge marble Buddha statue and a 200 years old well.

27. Pinang Peranakan Mansion

4 km from city center 27 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion, also known as the Babas and Nonyas, is a two-storey treasure trove of historical antiques and artefacts, making it one of the most unique museums of Malaysia. The iconic green-hued mansion is dedicated to Penang's Peranakan heritage.

28. Penang Botanic Gardens

2 km from city center 28 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

29. Penang Snake Temple

14 km from city center 29 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Penang Snake Temple, earlier known as Temple of the Azure Cloud, is a Chinese temple built in remembrance of Chor Soo Kong, a Buddhist prist and healer. Located in Bayan Lepas in the Southwest Penang, this magical temple is one of the few places where one can get close to the venomous snakes and live to tell the tale.

30. Fort Cornwallis Penang

4 km from city center 30 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Located at Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, Fort Cornwallis (Kota Cornwallis in Malay) is one of the most important structures in George Town, Penang. It is the largest intact standing fort in Malaysia which was built for defending Penang from pirate attacks.

31. Street Of Harmony

4 km from city center 31 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Located in George Town, the Street of Harmony is one of the oldest streets in Penang, representing the confluence of different cultures. The street houses four different places of worship - a church (St. George’s Church), a Taoist temple (Goddess of Mercy Temple), a Hindu Temple (Sri Mariamman Temple) and a mosque (Kapitan Keling Mosque).

32. Wat Chayamangkalaram

1 km from city center 32 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Wat Chayamangkalaram, located in the Pulau Tikus of George Town, is a Thai Buddhist temple. Also known as Chayamangkalaram Buddhist Temple it is famous for housing one of the world's longest reclining Buddha statue.

33. Jerejak Island

13 km from city center 33 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Set between Penang main Island and Seberang Perai, Jerejak Island is a stunning tropical island. The highlight being the holiday resort by the same name, Jerejak Island is rich with flora, fauna and history.

34. Kapitan Keling Mosque

4 km from city center 34 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

35. Penang Floating Mosque

5 km from city center 35 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Located at Tanjung Bungah Road, Masjid Terapung Pulau Penang, popularly known as the Floating Mosque, is a famous landmark and the first mosque in Malaysia built on the sea. During high tide, the mosque appears to be actually floating when someone gazes at the sea.

36. City Hall

4 km from city center 36 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Located along Jalan Padang Kota Lama, Penang City Hall, also referred to as Dewan Bandaraya Pulau Penang, is a colonial building and the head office of the Municipal Council of Penang Island. The City Hall is a must visit only to witness the colonial architecture and incredible views.

37. Adventure Zone Theme Park

37 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Located at Batu Ferringhi Beach in Golden Sands Resort, Adventure Zone Theme Park is an entertainment venue for families which has been designed especially for children. Built in 10,300 sq. feet, it offers different activities including game zones, drop slides, modular play equipments and kids club.

38. St. George’s Church Penang

4 km from city center 38 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

St. George’s Church is an Anglican church located on Farquhar Street in George Town. The 200-year-old shrine is the oldest Anglican Church in South East Asia and also one of the oldest buildings in Penang. The main highlight of St George Church is its recently inaugurated heritage centre.

39. Second Penang Bridge

18 km from city center 39 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Second Penang Bridge, also known as the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge, joins the mainland and the Penang Island from Seberang Perai all the way up till Gelugar. It stretches across an impressive length of 24 km making it the longest bridge in the Southeast Asian region.

40. Penang Bird Park

11 km from city center 40 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The beautifully-landscaped Penang Bird Park is located in Seberang Jaya and is the first and the largest bird park in Malaysia. It is home to over 300 species of birds, ranging from several species indigenous to the nurturing tropical ecosystem of Malaysia to other exotic species from all over the world.

41. Little India Penang

4 km from city center 41 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Little India is a small piece of the country spread across four streets in Penang. The neighborhood captures the essence of India in its streets and is famous for its mouth watering food, streets filled with pizzazz from Bollywood songs and the shops lined up selling wares from sarees to spices.

42. Kuan Yin Temple

4 km from city center 42 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Kuan Yin Temple in Georgetown is devoted to the Goddess of Mercy and is one of the main centres of worship for the Chinese Taoists in the city. Also known as Kuan Yin Teng, it is also home to the worship of Ma Chor Ooh, the patron saint of seafarers.

43. Balik Pulau

16 km from city center 43 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

Balik Pulau is a bustling market town and Penang's main island outpost. Housing charming shophouses and rice fields, the tiny hamlet is famous for its agricultural practices. Offering a laidback kampung lifestyle experience, Balik Pulau is best visited on a day trip or as a lunch stop for anyone making a round trip of the island.

44. Wonderfood Museum

4 km from city center 44 out of 44 Things To Do in Georgetown Penang

The Wonderfood Museum is a unique museum in Penang that features oversized replicas of traditional Malaysian dishes, art and historical information. Discover interesting larger-than-life delicacies from across Asia, and learn about Malaysian cuisine, street food and cooking methods at Information Zone. Close to Victoria Memorial Clocktower, Wonderfood Museum is open daily.

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Top 10 Must See Attractions in Georgetown Penang

Foodies, this is yet another guide for you guys. It touches our heart a little whenever we share our hometown with you all because it’s our root and we’re so proud of it. Again, Penang might be small but it still take days to completely tour around Penang. So, to make things simple for you guys, we have narrow it down to only focus on Georgetown, and here are the top 10 attractions in Georgetown .

Georgetown Penang

Truth to be told, Georgetown is the colourful, multicultural capital of the Malaysian island of Penang. Once an important Straits of Malacca trading hub, the city is known for its British colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses and mosques. Beyond the old town, Georgetown is a pretty city with many attractions point you have to visit when you’re in Penang.  Without further ado, here are the 10 things you can do in George Town Penang.

Featured: First Ever Countdown Party With 360-degree Fireworks Display, Snowing And Special Appearance of God Of Prosperity To Usher The New Lunar Year At The Top Penang

Malaysians who are visiting Penang or going back hometown to the Pearl of the Orient this Chinese New Year can expect to feast to a scrumptious reunion dinner in a grandeur when The Top Penang offers several dinning packages that come along with 360-degree grand fireworks display.

Taking place for the very first time on the eve of lunar new year on 4 February 2019, the offerings for the dinner include shows and entertainments ranging from LED lion dance to the unique water drum performances, magic shows and live music. To spice up the event further, God of Prosperity, God of Longevity, Happiness and Fortune will make their rounds to distribute ‘heavenly fortunes’ in the form of mandarin oranges. These will be followed by a magical snowfall as a blessing to the auspicious celebration.

To feast and enjoy these activities on the eve of Chinese New Year, the reunion dinner promotions are from RM118++ per pax at Top View Restaurant located at Level 59, RM148.80++ per pax (a minimum of 10 pax) at Imperial Court Restaurant, at Level 6 and RM198++ per pax at Coco Cabana Restaurant at Level 68. All dinners start from 6.30pm – 10pm respectively at individual outlets.

For party-goers who only wish to countdown, they can party in style at 816 feet above-sea-level with a price of from RM68++ per person, 10pm – 1am. Apart from the reunion dinner, there are also other available promotions throughout the festivity between 5 – 19 February 2019.

For more information about the offerings available at The Top Penang, visit thetop.com.my/promotion or follow Facebook.com/thetopofpenang or contact + 604-2623800 .

1. Dinosaur Park

Ever watched Jurassic Park and wondered what dinosaur looks like? Step into the Jurassic period where dinosaurs roam the Earth! Jurassic Research Center takes you through a truly education journey for both kids and adults where they can experience and interact with the life-sized dinosaurs.

Address: THETOP@KOMTAR. 1, Jalan Penang, 10000 George Town, Penang, Malaysia. Operating Hour: 10 a.m.-12:15 a.m. (Daily)

For more information and ticket price:  http://thetop.com.my/attractions/jurassic-research-center/

2. The Top @ Komtar

Previously 65-storey, Komtar now stands proudly at 68-storey tall,  housing Penang’s newest icon – The Top. It’s the first all-in-one international visitor attractions hub which include include the Rainbows Skywalk, Tech Dome, Tongkat Ali Museum, 7D Discovery Motion Theater and a host of food and beverage outlets. Here, you can get a 360 view of Penang and also dine in one of the finest restaurants.

Address: THETOP@KOMTAR. 1, Jalan Penang, 10000 George Town, Penang, Malaysia. Operating Hour: 10 a.m.-12:15 a.m. (Daily)

3. Street Art

We cannot emphasize enough of street arts in Penang, they’re located in every corner of the city, and each is equally unique. True, some might think that the hype is already over but hey, we’re not talking about fashion here. These are some of the primary things that made Penang what it is today and has inspired many souls. Some of the popular street arts could be found in Armenian Street, Chulia Street, Love Lane and some other close-by streets. They are the popular attractions in Georgetown.

4. Penang 3D Trick Art Musuem

This might be the most family-friendly attractions in Georgetown. A musuem with decorated rooms designed for comical photos and optical illusions, you might just know what it is based on the name. Spend your afternoon here to have fun, unleash your creativity and inner child.

Address: 10, Lebuh Penang, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang. Operating Hour: (Mon-Fri) 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (Sat&Sun) 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

5. Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

Better known as the Waterfall Hill Temple or “Thaneer Malai”, this temple is no stranger to locals. It is the focal point of the Hindu festival of Thaipusam in Malaysia, after the Batu Caves. Visitors will need to climb 513 stairs to reach the temple, but the view and the structure will leave you astonished. If you happen to visit Penang in the late January, be sure to stay and visit this temple during Thaipusam, which is on the 31st. It is the most iconic and colorful Hindu festivals of all, which makes it into our top 10 attractions in Georgetown list.

Address: 17, Jalan Kebun Bunga, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang.

6. Khoo Kongsi

Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, also known as Khoo Kongsi, is one of the most distinctive Chinese clan association in Malaysia. It is well known worldwide for its extensive lineage that can be traced back 650 years ago, as well as its defensive congregation of buildings and a magnificent clan house. Khoo Kongsi turns on its lights during every major festive and in conjunction with Chinese New Year this February, be mesmerized with the beautiful and detailed structure as they turn on their lights during Chinese New Year Culture and Heritage Celebration on 18/2 together with other performances.

Address: 18, Cannon Square, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang. Operating Hour: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Daily)

7. Fort Cornwallis

The largest standing fort in Malaysia, this was built by Captain Francis Light when he first took over Penang in 1786. Initially built as defense against piracy and other outside threats, now it has become one of the most historical tourist spot, as well as event and wedding photo shoot venue. Surrounded by greens, today, you could still see cannons standing strong at every corner of the wall. This is by far one of the best attractions in Georgetown.

Address: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang. Operating Hour: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. (Daily)

8. Clan Jetties

This is yet one of the many attractions in Georgetown that is no stranger to you all. Chew Jetty? Lee Jetty? They are all along the neighborhood can could be reached from one to another within walking distance. The Clan Jetties are unique Chinese settlements that have been around since the 19th century. Along the wooden pier are villages on stilts that house the descendants of Chinese immigrants. There are eight different clans that still resides here, each with similar yet different beliefs.

Address: Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang.

9. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Known as the Blue Mansion, one of the only three U NESCO heritage award-winning buildings, discover the lifestyle of Cheong Fatt Tze “The Last Mandarin and The First Capitalist of China”, his family, his favorite seventh wife and the era in which they represented the cream of Penang society. Tours are available here 3 times a day, with different languages offered, so be sure to check out their page for more information.

Address:  Ground Floor, 14, Leith Street, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang. Operating Hour: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., 2-3 p.m., 3:30-4:30 p.m. (Daily)

More information:  https://www.cheongfatttzemansion.com/

10. Colonial Penang Museum

Considered a new addition to the attractions in Georgetown, Colonial Penang Museum bring visitors back to Penang’s colonial past. Experience the lifestyle of both the British Administrators and the wealthy merchants of Penang and appreciate the intricate art form from the past. Here, you could find antiques and structures left behind by historians. This place also serves as an educational spot to have a better understanding of Penang’s rich culture and heritage.

Address: 7, Jalan D.S. Ramanathan, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang. Operating Hour: 9:45 a.m.-6:30 p.m. (Daily)

Georgetown is an awesome place!

These attractions are not just fun to visit, they fill your minds and hearts with history and culture that you’ve never experienced before. That’s why we’re always thankful and proud to be a Penangite. If you have not been to these place, take a day or two off to explore them. You’ll thank yourself for the decision you’ve made. Anyway, cheers Foodies and have a great day ahead!

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Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in George Town (Malaysia)

25 Best Things to Do in George Town (Malaysia)

Penang’s UNESCO-listed George Town combines stunning architecture, street art and food.

Restored colonial buildings line the older parts of the city overlooking the Straits of Melaka. Mosques, churches and temples sit side by side elsewhere.

Street art adds character to the already colorful neighborhoods.

Botanical Gardens sprawls at the base of towering Penang Hill, a favorite with hikers.

Grand Chinese mansions stand next to food courts, shopping centers and weekend markets.

Crazy Tourist identifies the 25 best things to do in George Town for history, art and culture.

1. Explore George Town’s colonial heritage

George Town was Malaya’s (old name for Malaysia) thriving colonial port.

The British became wealthy from mining tin, rubber plantations and growing coffee in nearby Perak state. Ships exported these commodities from Penang.

George Town’s legacy of this bygone era lies the number of preserved buildings.

Penang’s capital showcases some of the best examples of British architecture in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

Check out Fort Cornwallis, stately government buildings and Anglican churches.

Grab a map and stroll through old Penang and find architectural masterpieces around almost every corner.

2. Fort Cornwallis: Malaysia’s biggest fort

The star-shaped bastion crumbles near the Straits of Melaka in northeast George Town.

Fort Cornwallis opened in 1786 to protect Penang against increasing threats of piracy.

With an area of almost 39 square meters, it’s Malaysia’s largest fort.

Parts of the original outer walls remain which today encloses a small park. Travelers typically spend 15 minutes inside the complex.

Fort Cornwallis is near the Penang Clock Tower and Esplanade.

Information boards present the fort’s story. But most are vague and disparate.

Read about the colonial bastion before visiting to get the most out of the visit.

3. Southeast Asia’s oldest Anglican church

St George’s in George Town opened its doors in 1819 making it Southeast Asia’s oldest Anglican church.

The British commissioned a church for the increasing number of residents migrating to Malaya in the 19th-century.

The white-washed structure combines neo-classical, English Palladian and Georgian elements. Walk around the church’s grounds and appreciate its diverse geometric and architecture styles.

St George’s is part of George Town’s UNESCO Heritage and remains functional today.

4. Discover the ‘Penang Story’ at the State Museum

Penang State Museum is set inside a former British colonial era school.

Permanent exhibitions tell Penang’s story using art, photographs and old maps.

Discover what life was like during the British period. Find out about the crucial events that occurred in George Town.

Learn about the notorious Penang Riots of 1867 and see a replica of a Chinese trader’s home.

Temporary exhibitions can include everything from ethnography to jewelry to contemporary art.

A recent $20 million investment aims to transform the museum into a regional landmark.

5. The architectural masterpiece of City Hall

George Town’s colonial legacy manifests in its stunning examples of architecture. Nothing showcases this more than City Hall.

Arched windows and colonnades decorate the neo-Baroque masterpiece near Esplanade. Today, the former British City Hall houses the Municipal Council.

Tourists can’t go inside the functioning government building. Snap the best photographs from the Esplanade.

Stop by this colonial work of art as part of a self-guided walking tour of Penang. Fort Cornwallis is a few minutes away on foot.

6. Photograph Penang’s world-renowned street art

George Town is known for three things: colonial architecture, food and street art.

Murals of all shapes, sizes and styles add color to sections of the city’s otherwise bland walls.

Renowned artists including Zacharevic, Alex Face and Kenji Chai have contributed to some of the images.

Check out the Malayan Tiger, Brother and Sister on a Swing and the Window Cat.

Stealing Baos, an image depicting two young children reaching through a barred window, is among the most photographed.

Grab a map of the street art trail from the tourist information center.

7. Explore George Town’s colonial hill station

Penang Hill is both George Town’s and Penang’s tallest point rising to 833 meters (2,733 feet).

During colonial days, the British established a hill station (essentially a resort) at its summit.

Slightly cooler temperatures provided respite from the stuffy, sticky lowlands. Bungalows appeared. Many still remain.

Take the Bukit Bendera Cable Car if you’re short on time. Or hike along the 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) road from Arched Moon Gate in the Botanical Gardens.

Viewing platforms, English-style cottages and themed areas entertain tourists at the top.

8. Tropical flowers and primates inside Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens covers more than 71 acres at the foot of Penang Hill.

A path loops around the garden’s 12 sections past countless species of tropical flowers and spices.

Since opening in 1884 on the site of an old quarry, Botanical Gardens has expanded to contain tens of thousands of plants. Check out Lily Garden, Tropical Rainforest and Fern House. Or wander among cacti and herb gardens to a cascading waterfall.

Troupes of long-tailed macaques live inside Botanical Gardens. Families sit on electricity wires near the entrance curiously watching people walk by.

Combine a trip to Botanical Gardens with Penang Hill.

9. Temple tour of George Town

George Town has a reputation for Buddhist and Hindu temples.

Dozens fill the city with a temple of one kind or another temple located on almost every block.

Travelers usually visit a few during their self-guided walking tours.

Crazy Tourist recommends Wat Chaiyamangkalaram, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Snake Temple.

You’ll find smaller ones while exploring George Town’s neighborhoods.

Be respectful and don’t disturb worshipers. Try to limit the number of photographs inside.

10. A celebration of Buddhism at Kek Lok Si

Kek Lok Si is an enormous castle-like temple approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from central George Town.

Dating to the 19th-century, this temple is a celebration of different sects of Buddhism. Relics from both Theravada and Mahayana branches decorate the halls inside the vast complex.

The three-tiered central tower incorporates Chinese, Burmese and Thai designs.

Spend an hour or two following the passages through the different halls. Notice the slight variation in each statue, presentation and decorations.

Photograph the 30.2-meter (99-feet) Goddess of Mercy outside.

11. Four religions, one street

Malaysia is a multicultural melting pot.

George Town flaunts the best of Penang’s religious harmony.

Mosques, churches and temples stand side-by-side on Kapitan Keling Street – the same way they have for the best part of two centuries.

Taoist Goddess of Mercy is the oldest dating to 1728. Masjid Kapitan Keling, St George’s Church and Sri Mahamariamman Temple opened in the early 19th-century.

Saunter down the street and appreciate the religious harmony oozing from the brickwork.

Tourists can visit all four buildings. Cover your arms and legs before going into the mosque. Avoid visiting during prayer times.

12. Peer into George Town’s soul at the Penang Road Market

Penang Road closes on the last weekend of the month for George Town’s famous market.

Vendors set up a tunnel of stalls hawking goods from grocery to household products to cheap clothes.

Tourists shop for souvenirs, handicraft and street food.

Embrace the chaos and energy inside George Town’s most popular weekend market.

Grab roasted chestnuts, tropical fruits and bubble tea.

Nothing provides a window into Penang’s soul than the buzzing atmosphere inside this once-a-month weekend market.

13. Shop for bargains at George Town’s weekend market

The weekend market in Straits Quay Marine Mall with everything from homemade butter and handicraft to jewelry.

Shopaholics and tourists alike head down on weekends to search for bargains and soak up the atmosphere.

Travelers can find that perfect souvenir and take a piece of George Town back home. Or meet the local artisans selling their craft.

Keep your eyes open for rare antiques and relics from Penang’s previous generations.

The market opens between 10:30am and 10:30pm from Friday to Sunday.

14. Taste George Town’s world-famous food

George Town, along with Kuala Lumpur and Melaka, is a food capital of Malaysia.

Hundreds of restaurants cater to all dietary needs and budgets.

Try noodle soup in family-owned Chinese diners and dine buffet-style in 24/7 Indian ‘Mamak’ restaurants.

Penang is a hotspot for street food.

George Town’s Chulia Street transforms after 6:00pm. Wafting aromas rise from the dozens of hawkers cooking street food.

Follow your nose around the labyrinth of stalls.

Grab a few sticks of satay (chicken or mutton kebabs skewered on a bamboo stick). Try the famous wantan noodles (yellow noodles and barbequed pork).

15. Eat in a hawker center

If you don’t fancy eating in a restaurant, check out George Town’s hawker centers.

Stalls with a huge selection of food choices surround an enormous seating area.

Walk around the perimeter and find various dishes including noodles, rice and fish balls. Others serve barbequed meat and roasted duck.

Order from the stall, take a seat and the food arrives in minutes.

Apart from an almost guaranteed delicious eat, meals usually costs just a few dollars.

Check out Red Garden Food Paradise, CF Food Court and Sungai Pinang Food Court.

16. Discover Penang’s Peranakan heritage at Green Mansion

The mint green mini-mansion in George Town once belonged to a wealthy Chinese businessman.

Covering two-stories, the building exhibits elaborate carving on its doors and balcony. Aside from architectural aesthetics, the mansion doubles up as an intriguing museum.

Discover Malaysia’s and Penang’s Peranakan culture and traditions inside. The term Peranakan refers to a subgroup of Chinese Malaysians whose ancestors migrated to Malaysia hundreds of years ago.

Learn about their quirky traditions and superstitions. Find out about family life, traditional food and daily activities.

An English-speaking guided tour is included with the entrance ticket. Most tourists spend an hour inside the Pinang Peranakan Mansion.

17. Photograph the most photographed building in George Town

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, often called Blue Mansion, is Penang’s most famous building.

The 38-roomed mansion has more than 200 windows and an attractive indigo-blue façade. Various elements blend East and West in the late 19th-century building. Take note of the stained glass windows.

Blue Mansion is a few minutes west of old Penang on Leith Street.

After falling into disrepair, Blue Mansion received well-needed restorations in the late 1990s.

Join a guided tour of the mansion and learn about Cheong Fatt Tze’s inspiring rags-to-riches story.

18. Tastes of the subcontinent in Little India

George Town’s Little India spreads across Chulia, Market and Queen Streets.

A sizeable Indian community lives within this neighborhood offering a taste of the subcontinent.

Navigate through the alleys and embrace the serendipity in traditional music, clothes and food.

Nasi Kandars (pay for what you eat buffet-style restaurants) open all day and all night. Grab a plate and fill it with biryani, tandoori chicken and spicy prawns.

Or order a pancake-like roti for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

George Town’s Little India presents a different side to the capital – different food, culture and atmospheres.

19. Explore the mysterious overwater Chinese villages

Clan Jetty consists of six (formerly seven until one burned down) overwater Chinese villages.

Traditional stilted villages hover near the Penang Ferry Terminal.

When George Town developed, almost every acre of available space became involved in construction.

This left little space for the Chinese settlers.

Seven Chinese clans built overwater villages where they managed their lucrative industry: Loading and unloading precious cargo at Penang Port.

Bitter rivalries and disputes developed between the rival businesses and communities.

Chew Jetty is the most tourist-friendly of the six floating villages. Follow the boardwalk and explore the wooden and aluminum houses.

20. George Town’s thriving shopping scene

Penang has two passions: Food and shopping.

George Town caters to all shoppers from bargain hunters to souvenir shoppers. Some travelers stock up on clothes and accessories. Others get the latest iPhone.

Check out Penang Plaza, Straits Quay Marina Mall and Gurney Plaza Shopping Mall for clothes and fashion.

Other shops sell antiques, electronics and handicraft.

Some of George Town’s streets close after nightfall giving way to night markets. Shopping festivals take place in the city every August too.

21. George Town’s Jewish Cemetery

George Town has a secret in the heart of the city center. Few residents, let alone outsiders, know of Penang’s enigmatic Jewish Cemetery.

Penang once had a Jewish settlement in the 19th and early 20th-centuries.

Nobody remains of this once thriving community.

The Jewish Cemetery on Zainal Abidin Street is their only legacy.

Knock on the gates and the caretaker will allow you inside. Read the Hebrew inscriptions on the triangular and dome- shaped graves.

The oldest dates to 1835, the newest to 2011.

The man buried in 2011 is believed to be the last of George Town’s once blossoming Jewish community.

22. Ride the ferry across the Straits of Melaka

The Straits of Melaka separates Penang Island from Peninsular Malaysia.

Ferries pass between George Town and Butterworth on the mainland every 30 minutes during the day.

Riding the ferry on the top deck offers spectacular views of Penang Island, the Straits of Melaka and Penang Bridge to the south.

Return tickets shouldn’t cost more than a dollar. Stand on the side and enjoy the scenery passing by.

Travelers taking the bus or train to other parts of Malaysia will need to get to the station in Butterworth.

23. Sunset cocktails at Beach Blanket Babylon

George Town’s favorite bar overlooks the Straits of Melaka.

The upscale bar/restaurant exudes the flair of a Mediterranean lounge.

Order a cold beer or cocktail and sit in the elegant outdoor terrace. Modern furniture and wooden decorations create a classy atmosphere.

Tables fill in the early evening with both office workers and tourists.

Beach Blanket Babylon is among the highest rated bars in Penang.

Walk along the coast for approximately 20 minutes from Fort Cornwallis.

24. Fun photo-ops in the Upside Down Museum

Upside Down Museum promises Instagram-worthy photos and family-friendly fun.

On first glance, the rooms look like any other house with one exception: Everything is upside down.

Tables, chairs and beds are the wrong way up attached to the ceiling.

Museum staff help visitors get into position before taking their photographs. Flip it the right way up and it gives the illusion that you’re posing on the ceiling.

The museum in central George Town promises fun and entertainment.

Try to arrive early to beat the afternoon crowds.

25. Spend the day in Malaysia’s smallest national park

Penang National Park is approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) west of George Town.

Despite the title as Malaysia’s smallest national park, it packs an ecological punch.

More than 400 plants species thrive inside the thick jungle. Over 150 types of birds flutter about in the canopy above.

Visitors can hike along marked trails to viewing platforms and empty beaches. Or get a guide who can point out the different animals living around.

Watch out for the mischievous long-tailed macaques hanging in the lower branches. They’ll snatch your camera or bag if they have half a chance.

Travelers craving a taste of Malaysia’s biodiversity can get a dose on a short trip to Penang National Park.

Drive 45 minutes to the entrance. Or take Rapid Penang Bus (number 101) and get off in Teluk Bahang before walking to the Park HQ.

25 Best Things to Do in George Town (Malaysia):

• Explore George Town’s colonial heritage
• Fort Cornwallis: Malaysia’s biggest fort
• Southeast Asia’s oldest Anglican church
• Discover the ‘Penang Story’ at the State Museum
• The architectural masterpiece of City Hall
• Photograph Penang’s world-renowned street art
• Explore George Town’s colonial hill station
• Tropical flowers and primates inside Botanical Gardens
• Temple tour of George Town
• A celebration of Buddhism at Kek Lok Si
• Four religions, one street
• Peer into George Town’s soul at the Penang Road Market
• Shop for bargains at George Town’s weekend market
• Taste George Town’s world-famous food
• Eat in a hawker center
• Discover Penang’s Peranakan heritage at Green Mansion
• Photograph the most photographed building in George Town
• Tastes of the subcontinent in Little India
• Explore the mysterious overwater Chinese villages
• George Town’s thriving shopping scene
• George Town’s Jewish Cemetery
• Ride the ferry across the Straits of Melaka
• Sunset cocktails at Beach Blanket Babylon
• Fun photo-ops in the Upside Down Museum
• Spend the day in Malaysia’s smallest national park

Must-see attractions in George Town

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…

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…

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…

If you don't know your Lat from your Tezuka Osamu, then this is the place to become more closely acquainted with the dynamic work of comic-book artists…

This 2018 addition to George Town's ever-growing collection of public artworks is a gallery crafted from two vacant pre-WWII shophouses. Artworks run the…

Cheah Kongsi

Looking splendid after a major restoration, Cheah Kongsi is home to the oldest Straits Chinese clan association in Penang. Topped by a tiled pagoda roof,…

The largest and most intact of the clan jetties, Chew Jetty consists of 75 elevated houses, several Chinese temples, a community hall and lots of tourist…

Lebuh Armenian

Although this street is named for Penang's Armenian population (such as the famous Sarkies, who established the Eastern & Oriental Hotel), there's no…

Hin Bus Depot

The industrial remains of this former bus station have become a vibrant hub for George Town's burgeoning contemporary art scene. There are cafes and pop…

Protestant Cemetery

Under a canopy of magnolia trees you’ll find the graves of Captain Francis Light, the founder of the British colony of Penang, and many others, including…

Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple

Penang's first Buddhist temple was built in 1805 by migrants from Myanmar (Burma). A series of panel paintings on the life of the Buddha line the walkways…

Wat Chayamangkalaram

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is a typical Thai temple, complete with mosaic-covered naga serpents guarding the entrance, a sharp-eaved pagoda roof,…

Set up in 1860, this Clanhouse is also known as Kew Leong Tong, which means Hall of Nine Dragons. The association is open to anyone with the surname Lim,…

Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple

This 1850 temple is dedicated to its patron deity, the Taoist God of Prosperity. Resplendent in red, gold and polished black columns, it has quite a few…

Masjid Kapitan Keling

Penang’s first Indian Muslim settlers, troops from the East India Company, built Masjid Kapitan Keling in 1801, named for the captain who had the idea…

Rainbow Skywalk

Located at the tippy top of George Town's iconic but homely KOMTAR tower, Rainbow Skywalk offers a variety of elevated activities, from a rooftop…

House of Yeap Chor Ee

Housed in an exquisitely restored three-storey shophouse mansion, this interesting museum is dedicated to a former resident, itinerant barber-turned…

Asia Camera Museum

The contents of a former portrait studio have been relocated to this shophouse on Lr Armenian. A guided tour escorts you to a camera obscura, more than…

Batik Painting Museum Penang

Penang artist Chuah Thean Teng is credited with applying the age-old local craft of batik (a dye-resist process) to making works of art. Several of his…

St George's Church

The oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia, St George's was constructed in 1816, with backing from the East India Company. In the grounds is a memorial…

Han Jiang Ancestral Temple

This beautifully decorated and maintained Clanhouse, belonging to the Penang Teochew Association, dates back to 1870. It features informative displays on…

Church of the Assumption

The Catholic Church of the Assumption was founded in 1786, not long after the foundation of Penang, but the present building was constructed in 1861.

Perhaps the most appealing clan jetty, with a new row of wooden homes and businesses owned by members of one extended family.

Teochew Puppet & Opera House

A family collection of puppets, costumes and traditional instruments form the basis of this charming specialist museum.

Sri Mariamman Temple

Built in 1883, Sri Mariamman is George Town’s oldest Hindu house of worship. For local South Indians, the temple fulfils the purpose of a Chinese…

Penang Museum

Penang's state-run museum includes exhibits on the history, customs and traditions of the island’s various ethnic groups, with photos, videos, documents,…

P Ramlee House

This museum compound is dedicated to the 1950s and '60s movie star P Ramlee, who was born here. Ramlee was particularly known for his singing; he also…

This impressive 1903 building, with rows of columns holding up balconies and shaded exterior corridors, is Malaysia's oldest high court. Outside is a…

Suffolk House

This impressive Georgian-style mansion is built on the site of the original residence of Francis Light, founder of the colony and native of Suffolk,…

A typical feature of Malaysian colonial cities is the padang, which is an open playing field surrounded by public buildings. George Town’s padang…

Wat Buppharam

This Thai temple, dating from 1942, is home to the 'Lifting Buddha', a renowned, 100-year-old, gold-leaf-encrusted Buddha statue about the size of a well…

Top at KOMTAR

There are all kinds of attractions – most targeted at families – in this major revamp of part of George Town's iconic KOMTAR tower. The biggest draw is…

Penang Jewish Cemetery

Believed to be the oldest single Jewish burial ground in Southeast Asia, here you'll find some 107 graves, the earliest of which dates back to 1835. The…

Witness Collection

Since this splendid collection of modern and contemporary art works, mainly from Vietnam and Cambodia, is displayed in the home of their owner, Adrian…

Sun Yat Sen Museum

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The 1906 offices of The Star newspaper have been transformed into this arts, culture and heritage centre, used for various exhibitions as well as hosting…

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Penang

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Malaysian state of Penang consists of an island and a peninsula connected to each other by the two longest bridges in the country. George Town, Penang's capital, has become a major tourist destination in Malaysia. Some of the main attractions are its colonial architecture; its connection to WWII; and its many green spaces, which include everything from formal botanical gardens to tropical jungle.

Sections of George Town have also been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites , in part because of their maritime urban settlements known as clan jetties.

If you're looking for ideas on how to spend your time once you get to Malaysia, see our list of top tourist attractions in Penang.

1. The Habitat Penang Hill

2. clan jetties, george town, 3. entopia by penang butterfly farm, 4. historical streets of george town, 5. fort cornwallis, 6. penang war museum, bukit batu maung, 7. batu ferringhi night market, 8. kek lok si temple, 9. penang national park, 10. penang hill funicular, bukit bendera, 11. penang botanic gardens, 12. street art in george town, 13. batu ferringhi beach, 14. khoo kongsi, 15. tanjung bungah floating mosque, where to stay in penang for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in penang, penang, malaysia - climate chart.

The Habitat Penang Hill is a rainforest experience that takes you into the heart of the jungle and lets you truly feel all the sounds, colors, and smells up close. Your first contact with nature is through the 1.6-kilometer-long nature trail, which cuts through the ancient forest, over rolling hills and far above the Andaman Sea-all of which you can see from several lookout points along the way.

For an even more stunning view of the surroundings, visitors can take the Langur Way Canopy Walk , 15 meters up in the air and 230 meters long, gently curving around and through the trees. Or they can try the ziplines for an up-close experience of the jungle.

For those wanting to catch a glimpse of George Town, as well as the surrounding jungle, nothing beats the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk , a circular platform with 360-degree views and the highest point on the island. Special tours guided by naturalists take place here as the sun sets, when you can see not only a stunning array of colors on the sky, but also catch a glimpse of giant flying red squirrels, bats, and the Penang gecko.

Official site: https://thehabitat.my

The Clan Jetties are one of the most significant historical areas in Penang-a traditional village consisting of structures and houses built on stilts right over the water.

Clan jetties are a very unique type of water settlement created by Chinese immigrants in the late 19 th century. Originally, they consisted of a single structure used as a sort of small warehouse where the loading and unloading of products and materials (including firewood, charcoal, and boat transportation) for a particular trade or industry happened.

Over the years, families (or clans) took over certain industries and unofficially claimed a certain area of the dock, with each clan getting bigger and building more huts along the way.

There are now six jetties on the waterfront-all of them still home to Chinese descendants and considered a historical reminder of the industries that helped shape Penang. While they are technically private property where families live, most of the jetties welcome visitors for a glimpse of their local temple, photos of the sunset over the water, and a nostalgic walk over the walkway surrounding the stilt-houses.

Entopia is Penang's new butterfly farm, a massive glass conservatory where over 15,000 free-flying butterflies live among waterfalls, lush tropical greenery, and re-created natural features.

Trails crisscross through the greenhouse, offering many chances to see butterflies in their natural element, including small caves, a wild garden, a backyard area, and more. Special events throughout the day allow visitors to interact with butterflies up close and learn about unique and rare species.

Entopia is divided into two main sections: Natureland and Cocoon. Natureland is a living garden vivarium that encompasses the main butterfly area, plus ponds and special areas where snapping turtles, frogs, iguanas, and a number of large insects live. Cocoon is Entopia's discovery center, where visitors can learn more about butterflies and participate in hands-on activities.

This two-story center also offers short nature-learning programs for both children and grown-ups.

Official site: http://www.entopia.com/

George Town, Panang's capital city, is a stunning mix of European and Asian influences. Over the past five centuries, the city has grown into a vibrant port town and tourist destination, but without losing the unique legacy that caused her to receive UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2008.

While George Town's architecture is impressive anywhere, the old streets around the Lebuh Acheh historical enclave hold the most significance-from old Chinese shophouses to British colonial mansions and clan houses to a number of temples representing several religions, these historical streets are fascinating to explore.

Among George Town's most significant historical buildings, you'll find the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion , one of only three mansions outside China built using traditional Feng Shui architectural principles, and an early 19th-century Chinese temple dedicated to the Goddess Kuan Yin. The Penang State Museum & Art Gallery , which explores Penang's past and cultural legacy, is a good stop if you want to better understand the importance of this area.

The best way to explore the historical area of George Town is to just walk around and appreciate the rows of wooden shutters, low shophouses, stucco buildings, and colorful details on the most unexpected structures.

Penang's most famous landmark is also the largest fort in the country. Although only one outer wall with cannons remains from the original 1786 bastion , there are enough structures left behind it to give you an idea of the massive size of the original fort.

Stroll through the well-cared-for green lawn to find the remains of prison cells, a chapel, and a storage area that was once used to keep ammunition. A bronze statue of Captain Francis Light, who originally ordered the building of the fort, welcomes visitors as they enter through the gate.

The fort never saw any actual combat, and it was mostly used as an administrative point. Over the years, additional buildings and statues were added, including a steel lighthouse with a design that resembles a ship's mast. While there are small exhibits throughout the fort that explain some of its history, the space is mostly used by locals as a park to spend a quiet afternoon in the sun.

This 20-acre outdoor living war museum in Penang sits on the former site of a 1930s British fort and gun armory. The fort failed to stop the invading Japanese army in WWII and suffered significant damage to its structure. It was later reconstructed and is now home to Southeast Asia's largest war museum and a memorial to the many men who suffered and died under occupation.

The museum's main attractions are all at least partially underground -some as deep as 10 meters under the Earth-and include ammunition bunkers, pillboxes (concrete posts or small fortifications used to hide when firing at the enemy), a communications center, and escape tunnels leading right to where the submarines once stood in wait.

On the surface, cannons, barrack blocks, and a number of photographs and testimonials bring the history of the place back to life. Visitors are welcome to explore the large fort on their own, experiencing the area as they see fit and discovering unexpected corners along the way-including walls riddled with bullet holes, a Japanese suicide vest, and a guillotine stand.

Open until midnight every day, this massive night market with over 100 stalls and tons of character is the perfect place to pick up traditional souvenirs, including batik prints, lacquer plates, and delicate paper lamps. There are also plenty of chances to find copies of famous clothes, watches and purses brands, as well as other small treasures.

Restaurants and food stalls line up the streets here as well, where you have a chance to try a number of delicacies, such as teochew chendol , shaved ice filled with green rice jelly and coconut milk.

Over a hundred years old and the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Lok Si is home to a seven-tiered pagoda, over 10,000 Buddha statues , and a 37-meter-tall bronze sculpture of Kuan Yin, the Buddhist Goddess of compassion. Around the main statue-the tallest statue of Kuan Yin in the world-there are 100 smaller statues of the Goddess, each two meters tall. The temple is considered a main pilgrimage destination, and it attracts Buddhists from all over Southeast Asia.

The temple covers an area of over 12 hectares, reached after a three-kilometer hike and a steep walk up a stone staircase from the top of Penang Hill. Colorful prayer halls, beautifully manicured gardens, ponds with fish and turtles, and many lanterns line the way-the lights are particularly stunning the month following Chinese New Year, as they stay lit well into the night for four straight weeks.

Penang National Park might be one of the smallest in the world at just 23 square kilometers, but it still contains five very distinct habitats with over 400 different plant species. In addition to forests and mangroves, there is also a long stretch of seacoast here with timber trees lining up the white powdery sand and coastal habitat.

The park is famous for its many trails, which zigzag into the jungle and along the coastline towards landmarks such as the Muka Head lighthouse, which can only be reached by a steep trek up a hill at the end of Monkey Beach. All trails in the park have been left in their original condition, except for the addition of concrete steps and ropes in certain areas to help climbers continue on their way when the terrain gets too demanding.

There's also a 250-meter-long canopy walk off one of the trails, which allows visitors to step among the treetops, 15 meters in the air on a rope and wooden platform.

Built in 1923 and completely overhauled in 2010, the Penang Hill Railway-which has the world's steepest tunnel track -climbs Penang Hill and offers beautiful green open views over the city. While the original climb used to take around 30 minutes, it now takes anywhere between five and 25 minutes-the shortest time without stops and the longest if the cable car stops at the midway stations (only on request) on its way to the top.

Long gone are the wooden carriages with first- and second-class seating. Today, passengers can travel up the hill on modern air-conditioned trains that can carry 100 passengers at a time. Once at the top station, visitors can step onto viewing decks, check out a gallery, or enjoy a snack at the café or food court.

Official site: http://www.penanghill.gov.my/index.php/en/

Although the 30-hectare botanical garden is often referred to as "Waterfall Gardens," there's no actual waterfall within the park-the Penang waterfall is nearby but on private property and the only way to visit it is by joining a special monthly tour by a local non-governmental organization.

The park participates in research and conservation programs, but also offers a recreation environment where visitors can take to the trails for jungle trekking or jogging, explore the extensive tropical rainforest , or discover the many rare species of ferns, the herb garden, and the orchidarium housed here. Some of the hiking trails reach all the way up to Penang Hill, over an hour away.

Long-tailed macaques and black giant squirrels, as well as many species of butterflies, call the gardens home.

Most visitors don't realize George Town is a synonym with great street art until they start walking around and stumbling upon magnificent wall paintings as they turn an unsuspecting corner. It all started in 2012 with a Lithuanian artist painting six large murals, and things have grown quickly since then. Today, one of the most Instagranmable spots in town is the large "children on a bicycle" mural.

The art offers the perfect excuse to spend an afternoon walking around Old Town. Muntri Street and Ah Quee streets are particularly rich in murals, including the famous 20-foot-high Little Girl In Blue and Boy on a Bike , a mural that combines a stunning image of a boy wearing a helmet and an actual motorcycle set up against the building.

You don't have to go far to enjoy powdery soft sands and turquoise waters in Panang. In fact, Batu Ferringhi beach is just steps from the heart of the city, a perfect place to escape for a few hours if you want to soak in the sun's rays, try parasailing, or rent a kayak to explore the coastline.

Sitting alongside a busy road, the beach is lined with a mix of great accommodations, live music entertainment venues, and plenty of dining options. There's also a big night market here, where you'll find everything from basic souvenirs to handmade local textiles to Malaysian batik.

Khoo Kongsi is an ornate Chinese clanhouse. Historically, clanhouses were social organizations or partnerships formed by a group of Chinese immigrants that would collaborate and support their mutual welfare. As the largest clanhouse in Malaysia, Khoo Kongsi serves several purposes, including housing a theater, rowhouses for clan members to live in, and a temple where clan members can worship their ancestors. You could think of it as a miniature clan village.

Highly ornate and richly decorated in reds and golds, Khoo Kongsi is famous for its stunning sculptures of dragons and other beasts adorning the roof. Visitors are welcome, and there's a museum about the Khoo Kongsi Clan on the first floor of the temple. The Central Hall on the second floor, decorated with ink frescoes of legendary heroes, holds special celebrations during the Chinese New Year.

Despite being known as the "floating mosque," the white and blue Tanjung Bungah (which features an impressive towering minaret ) is actually built on pilings and stilts along Tanjung Bungah's beach. A beautiful terrace wrapping around parts of the building gives a 360-degree panoramic view over the open sea and the city of Penang.

If you arrive during high tide, the mosque does appear to float and offers the best photo opportunities. Outside of prayer times, you'll be offered a free tour of the inside.

Luxury Hotels:

• With a lobby resembling a modern art museum, the G Hotel Kelawai is Penang's most cutting-edge luxury hotel. Stylish rooms and suites have a contemporary vibe. Beds are comfy with high-thread-count linens and quality mattresses. If you're traveling with kids, there are interconnected rooms available. Amenities include three stylish restaurants, including on the rooftop. Here, you'll also find an infinity swimming pool with panoramic city views. The hotel's location on bustling Jalan Kelawai street is also appealing. It's near numerous attractions, restaurants, and shops.
• Hotel Equatorial Penang is another luxury option in a secluded location. The hotel sits on top of a hill about 10 minutes from the airport and a 20-minute drive from George Town. Choose from 412 rooms and suites, each elegantly furnished. Rooms have large windows with city, mountain, landmark, or pool views. On-site you'll find a few different restaurants, including one that does Chinese fare and another serving Japanese. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, tennis and squash courts, and a fitness center.
• Seven Terraces sits on one of Penang's most intact heritage streets in the center of George Town and walking distance from all its top attractions. The historic hotel is made up of seven Anglo Chinese terrace homes from the 19th-century. The rooms and suites have an elegant vibe and period decor. On-site amenities include a restaurant, free parking, and airport transport.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• For a very good-value luxury stay try The Light Hotel Penang . Rooms and suites come in a number of different categories. Book the Premier floors for access to the Executive Lounge. The hotel is family-friendly and offers things to do for children. Breakfast is also included in the rate. You'll also find a swimming pool, spa, steam room, and workout room on-site.
• Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion is a George Town property in a grand old mansion in the historic district. The rooms and suites here are spacious and decorated in period style. The family-friendly hotel has some kid-focused amenities, like children's TV networks and kids' menus at the restaurant. There is also a swimming pool with sun loungers on-site and bike rentals. Breakfast is complimentary.
• For a boutique mid-range hotel check out Campbell House . It has just 12 rooms done up in colonial style. The location in the heart of China Town in George Town is also excellent, and the hotel is walking distance from many attractions. Breakfast is included in the rate, walking tours of the city can be arranged, and there is a rooftop terrace to soak up the views of Penang.

Budget Hotels :

• Tune Hotel George Town Penang is a top budget choice. The very affordable hotel is in a central locale and has small but tidy rooms with TVs and safes. They also provide bottled water. Car hire can be arranged at the hotel. Other amenities include 24-hour check-in and security.
• Also try Reunion Residence for a good-value hotel. In the heart of George Town, it has just nine rooms, but these have an almost luxe vibe and are pretty spacious. There is free Wi-Fi and parking, and airport transport can be arranged.
• Walking distance from George Town's top attractions, HelicoNia Hotel is another budget option. Colorful rooms come in six different categories, including options for families traveling with kids. Rooms have balconies, as well as blackout curtains and work desks. There is 24-hour check-in, and if you need to store luggage, this is also an option.

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See More of Malaysia : Malaysia is a country of contrasts, a place where nature, history, and religion are part of everything. To learn more about the many things the country has to offer, take a look at our article, Best Places to Visit in Malaysia . If you're in the mood for a relaxing holiday, sand and coastlines await on the best beaches in Malaysia . For more on Malaysia's capital and the many exciting things to see and do, check out our article on the Top Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur .

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.

Read: Langkawi, Malaysia’s paradise island

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. 

See the 2-week Malaysia Travel Route

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

9 Best Things To Do in Langkawi (3-Day Travel Guide)

Malaysia travel guide: tips for the ultimate itinerary, best things to do in cameron highlands, malaysia.

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

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9 EPIC Things to Do in Georgetown, Malaysia (Penang)

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

Looking for the best things to do in Georgetown, Malaysia? You’ve come to the right place!

Georgetown (often written also George Town) is the capital city on Penang Island. It’s a charming city, where tradition meets modern, where old meets new.

The city centre is characterised by British colonial architecture, as well as Chinese architecture and the clan jetties of Penang.

Georgetown is also famous for its delicious street food, which you can taste at the many food stalls, courts and markets. Add to it unique temples, beautiful views and a fun vibe, and you’ve got one of the most interesting cities in South East Asia.

We visited Georgetown as part of a wider Malaysia itinerary. We travelled here from Cameron Highlands, spent two nights in Georgetown, and then travelled on to Langkawi.

It’s not enough to see all of the top attractions in Georgetown, but it’s a good start. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and discover the best things to do in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia!

• 1.1 Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
• 1.2 Explore Chew Jetty
• 1.3 Discover the street art dotted around Georgetown
• 1.4 Try the street food
• 1.5 Explore Chinatown
• 1.6 Explore Little India
• 1.7 Head to The TOP Penang
• 1.8 Visit Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi
• 1.9 Take the Penang Hill Railway
• 2 Where to stay in Georgetown, Malaysia
• 3 How many days do you need in Georgetown?
• 4 Do you need travel insurance to visit Georgetown in Penang, Malaysia?
• 5 How to get around Georgetown

Enjoying the views over Georgetown from the pagoda of Kek Lok Si Temple

Essentials to book before you read on!

Best tours in Georgetown

Georgetown Private Half-Day City Tour

4-hour Georgetown Food Tour

The TOP Penang Entrance Ticket

Best hotels in Georgetown

Budget: Aayu Chulia

Mid-range:  Beacon Executive Suite

Luxury:  Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion 

Get 5% off your travel insurance here!

Best things to see in Georgetown, Penang

Visit kek lok si temple.

A visit to the sprawling Kek Lok Si Temple is easily one of the top things to do in Georgetown. Located around 8 kilometres from the centre of Georgetown, it’s a huge complex that was built between 1890 and 1930.

It’s actually one of the largest Chinese Buddhist temples in the country.

Don’t miss getting the funicular railway (costing 2 RM to ride) up to the Ban Po Thar pagoda, where you’ll also find a super cool statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kuan Yin – it’s 36.5 metres tall!  

From here, the views of the city below are amazing. This beautiful temple complex is open daily, 8:30AM to 5:30PM (entry is free, but you can make a donation if you want).

It’s worth noting that while entrance is free, you have to pay for the funicular or bus journeys up to the top. The temple is split over four different levels, and you have to take these funiculars and buses to move between each level.

You can also join a guided tour of Kek Lok Si Temple (and other highlights around the city) if you want to be sure that you don’t miss any important spots. Plus, a local guide will tell you all the history and details of the places you visit.

Personally, I liked Batu Caves and Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur better, but Kek Lok Si Temple was still magical in its own way.

Click here to book your Georgetown city & temple tour!

Exploring Kek Lok Si Temple in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia

The huge statue of Kuan Yin in Kek Lok Si Temple, Georgetown

Explore Chew Jetty

One of the most charming places to visit in Georgetown is Chew Jetty. This coastal warren of boardwalks and wooden houses represents the Chinese immigrant communities who settled here in the 19th century.

There were once (and still are) many jetties in this area, but the Chew Jetty is the largest and most famous of them all.

You’ll find around 75 houses on stilts over the water as you wander around, as well as multiple Chinese temples and various docks complete with bobbing fishing boats.

It’s a nice spot to explore for sunset, when the water is illuminated by the oranges and pinks of the sun disappearing below the horizon.

Exploring Chew Jetty in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia

Discover the street art dotted around Georgetown

Street art has quickly become one of the most famous Georgetown tourist attractions.

A way to revitalise the crumbling shop houses of the old town, murals have been daubed on the walls of heritage buildings, depicting life as it once was and as it is today in Georgetown.

It’s easy to wander around and find the pieces for yourselves, but the best way to get to grips with the street art of Georgetown is to go on a tour.

This heritage tour is a good option, with a guide who will make sure you come away with a good insight into what makes Georgetown tick.

Click here to book your private Georgetown heritage city tour!

The famous “Children on the Swing” mural in Georgetown, Penang

“Little Children on a Bicycle” street art in Georgetown, Malaysia

“Folklore by the Sea” one of the famous street art pieces at Chew Jetty

Try the street food

Food is a huge part of Malaysian culture, and Georgetown is famous for food (even within Malaysia).

As the British Empire’s first settlement in Southeast Asia, Georgetown naturally attracted settlers from across the world. Pair that with the strong trade connections, and you have the perfect storm for some amazing cuisine.

Mixing Peranakan, Thai, Malay, Indian, British and various regional Chinese cuisines, the city’s gastronomic scene thrives.

A couple of good places to see it all unfold are Red Garden Food Paradise and The Jetty Food Court; both are open-air food courts that feature live music in the evening and a ton of different stalls (and alcohol).  

A great activity to do in Georgetown is to join a street food tour . That way you know you’ll be heading to all the best spots and ordering all the right things, as you’ll have a knowledgeable local guide with you.

Click here to book your street food tour in Georgetown!

Trying delicious Malaysian cuisine in Georgetown

Jetty Food Court in Georgetown, Penang, in Malaysia

Explore Chinatown

A visit to Chinatown is definitely what to do in Georgetown, Malaysia for any curious traveller.

With colourful shophouses, streets strung with red lanterns, and retro signs illuminating the night sky, it makes up part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage credentials.

There are various sights to see within Chinatown itself, so the best thing to do here is simply wander. Or for a more focused dive into the history of Chinatown, try a tour.

This heritage tour takes in Chinese temples, historic buildings and venerable old eateries. It’s a private tour, which means you can ask the guide to adapt it to your interests and needs.

Click here to book your private Georgetown historical city tour!

Exploring the streets of Chinatown in Georgetown, Malaysia

Explore Little India

The Indian community of Georgetown has long called this area home.

It’s a colourful intersection of streets where you’ll find jewellers, textile shops, spice merchants and a whole host of other stores (even a shop dedicated to Bollywood movies).

One of the best parts about this must-visit place in Penang is the food. There are numerous eateries where you can sample some of the best daals and tandoori chicken around.

But when you’re not eating, make sure to check out Sri Mahamariamman Temple – dating back to 1833, it’s the oldest Hindu temple in Penang.

Exploring Little India in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia

Head to The TOP Penang

If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Georgetown, Penang, look no further than The TOP.

This theme park is a rejuvenation of the city’s KOMTAR Tower, and features a range of attractions aside from just amazing views of the city below.

The main draw is the Rainbow Skywalk (adults RM 68), set on level 68 of the tower. You can walk out over the rooftops of the city on a glass bridge that extends out from the top of the tower.  

There’s also an Observation Deck if you’re not a fan of glass floors. Elsewhere there’s a “Jurassic Research Centre” (complete with dinosaur models), a play area, aquarium and eateries too.

It’s open 10AM to 10PM every day. If you want to skip the queues, make sure to purchase your tickets online beforehand , so that you don’t have to wait on the day!

Click here to purchase your entrance tickets to The TOP Penang in Georgetown!

Exploring the city centre of Georgetown in Penang, Malaysia

Visit Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

This incredible piece of architecture is one of the grander tourist attractions in Georgetown, Penang.

Malaysia’s best example of a Hokkien clanhouse, this ornate building is testament to the Chinese presence in Georgetown, and Penang as a whole.

Dating to 1906, the elaborate decorations of Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi are cool to see – plus you can actually wander around inside the building too. It’s open 9AM to 5PM and costs 15 RM to enter.

Take the Penang Hill Railway

One of the classic Georgetown things to do is take in amazing views of the city from up high. While there’s the view from Kek Lok Si Temple, the Penang Hill Railway is a more historic way to do it.

Built in 1923, the funicular (which was originally just a steam engine) was a way for British colonists to enjoy cooler temperatures at the top of Penang Hill in the Air Itam suburb of Georgetown.

The tunnel the funicular goes through on one section is, allegedly, the steepest in the world. Once you’re at the top, enjoy views of the hills and the communities down below.

There’s also hiking trails, heritage buildings, a gallery and places to get a bite to eat. The railway operates from 6:30AM to 11PM ; a standard return ticket costs RM 30.

Want to discover more about Georgetown? Check out my YouTube video below!

Where to stay in Georgetown, Malaysia

Here are some great places to stay in Georgetown in Penang.

Budget: Aayu Chulia – This property has very affordable rooms with shared bathrooms, is centrally located and has excellent reviews.

Click here to book your stay at Aayu Chulia in Georgetown!

Mid-range:  Beacon Executive Suite – Georgetown is no Kuala Lumpur , with its epic city views, but the infinity rooftop pool at this hotel is pretty great. We stayed here and loved it. It’s a bit outside the city centre, but the apartments are modern, clean, spacious, and the pool is great.

Click here to book your stay at Beacon Executive Suite in Georgetown!

Luxury:  Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion – Located close to the city centre, this Chinese courtyard-style mansion is the best place to treat yourself. The unique architecture and decor is an experience in and of itself.

Check out prices & availability at Cheong Fatt Tze, The Blue Mansion, in Georgetown here!

The rooftop pool at Beacon Executive Suite in Georgetown, Malaysia

How many days do you need in Georgetown?

It ultimately depends on your wider Malaysia itinerary, how much time you have, and where your interests lie. Personally, we spent two nights in Georgetown, but arrived late the first day so only had one full day in the city.

While it was obviously nowhere near enough to see everything Georgetown and Penang have to offer, it was enough to see all of the main highlights and get a feel for the Georgetown vibe.

We didn’t spend long in Georgetown as we travelled here from Cameron Highlands . To break up the 4-hour drive we stopped in Ipoh , which ate into our Georgetown time.

We then wanted to continue on to Langkawi so it didn’t leave us long. We like islands more than cities, so we wanted to explore the waterfalls of Langkawi more than the temples of Georgetown.

However, the areas beyond Georgetown in Penang are meant to be beautiful, so if you have more time, you could definitely spend longer in Georgetown, and venture also outside the city.

Admiring “Children on a swing”, one of the famous street art pieces in Georgetown, Malaysia

Do you need travel insurance to visit Georgetown in Penang, Malaysia?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Enjoying the rooftop pool at Beacon Executive Suite in Georgetown, Malaysia

How to get around Georgetown

While Georgetown is a fairly big city, all of the main attractions are located close to each other in the city centre. You can easily walk from Chew Jetty to Little India and Chinatown, going via all the most famous street art pieces.

For attractions that are further out, like Kek Lok Si Temple, I suggest getting a Grab. They are very affordable, especially if you’re travelling with friends and splitting the cost.

There’s also public transport, but honestly given how cheap Grabs are, I would opt for comfort over having to figure out public transport.

Kapitan Keling Mosque in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia

Final thoughts on the top things to do in Georgetown Penang

There you have it, the ultimate guide on the best things to do in Georgetown, Malaysia! Have you been to Georgetown before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Located in the island of Penang, Georgetown is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. Its city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a great place to see the mixture of cultures, ethnicities and religions that distinguish Malaysia.

As you wander around the streets of Georgetown, admiring its colonial buildings of a bygone era, the relaxing botanical gardens, the hawker markets and the best street art in town, you can’t help but be charmed by its beauty.

We only spent two nights in Georgetown, and while I feel like it was enough for a first time visit to see the main tourist attraction of the city, I definitely feel like I could have spent longer there.

I hope you found my overview of the best things to do in Georgetown useful! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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The 23 Best Things to Do in Georgetown, Penang Island

Georgetown is the main city of Penang Island. It is a popular place with charming beaches and busy streets filled with colonial architecture, street art, and the best food in Malaysia. The local community is very diverse and really highlights how Malaysian culture has evolved to be the country many visitors want to learn about. Penang Island became a well-known trading port in the 1800s which lead to its diverse culture and history today and it’s a simply lovely place to base yourself to visit the island of Penang.  But before you head off and explore the rest of the island, here are the best things to do in Georgetown, Penang.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

#1 THING TO DO

Take a Food Tour of Penang

The food of Penang is amazing. Honestly, you’ll eat so much good stuff here. And this seriously well-rated tour takes you to all the best places and brings out the Penang specialties to try.

A Brief History of Penang and George Town

Penang has had many various names throughout the years. It was first called “Pulau Ka-Satu” which means “The First Island”. The native seafarers gave this name to Penang because it was the biggest island they discovered where they can establish a trading route between Lingga and Kedah.  The British vessel first arrived in Penang in 1592, but not until the 1770s when they decided to have a permanent foundation on the island. In 1786, the island is finally in possession of the British. They then rename it “Prince of Wales Island” and the British East India Company settled in George Town, which was named after King George III and designed to be a free trading port.  Spices were produced and harvested during colonial times in Penang. The name Penang originated from “Pulau Pinang”, which means “areca nut island”, both the name Penang and Pinang are correct. Today, there are many things to do in Georgetown, Penang from visiting historical sites, food exploration, and taking cool photos of the unique 3D street artworks that the city is full of.

This guide is specifically about things to do in George Town, Penang, if you’re looking to see some of the great things to do on the island of Penang, then head on over here.

The Top 23 Things to Do in Georgetown, Penang

When you are in Georgetown, you can travel through the island of Penang and check out old buildings, admire colorful botanical gardens, go on a hike, take unique and fun photos at unconventional museums, and stuff yourself silly with tasty local street food.  But let’s start with a little history.

1. Explore the Food of Penang

You can taste all the must-try dishes of Penang without visiting dozens of restaurants and food stalls, which is great fun, but might take some time! Instead, you can book a food tour . These amazing tours usually last for 4 hours you’ll get to try 10 different dishes and learn about different Malaysian food. You will also have a knowledgeable guide who will explain how different cuisines have fused together and resulted in unique Malaysian food. The tour usually starts during midday, remember not to get too full from breakfast.  Go on, do yourself a favor and explore this food scene , because the food of Georgetown and Penang is amazing.  Truly.  (I wrote about it here ).

2. Tour the Street Art of Georgetown

The street art of Georgetown is a UNESCO Heritage Site and also on the top of things to do in Georgetown. There are three things Penang is most famous for; food, colonial buildings, and street art.  I wrote specifically about where and what to see here .  It really is an attraction in itself, and a good deal of exercise getting round to see it all!

Various elements and public spaces are painted featuring different shapes, forms, colors, and stories of life in Penang. Many of these painted walls also have an attached object, making them somewhat 3D art and interactive. The Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic was the first one commissioned to paint locations around Penang in 2012.

The most photographed paintings are Little Children on Bicycle , Boy on a Motorbike , Brother and Sister on Swing , the Big Cat , and I want Pau . There are more than 20 paintings all over Penang for you to discover.

3. Take the Funicular to Penang Hill – Bukit Bendera

Penang Hill is definitely one of the best things to do in Georgetown, and you’ll be amazed at how much of a difference this small change in altitude makes to the temperature!  It might just be 833 meters (2733 feet) above sea level, but it’s delightfully fresh up here!  There are two ways to get to the top of the hill. One is to hike and the other is to ride the funicular. Both options offer different experiences. With the funicular ride, you can see dramatic and scenic views as you approach the peak of the hill and, of course, remain cool.  A hike gives you some great exercise and lovely views on the way up (and down).

Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera) is the oldest British Hill Station in South East Asia, dating back to the 1700s, it stands at 883 meters above sea level and is a delightful several degrees cooler than down in Georgetown.  There’s been a funicular train here since October 1823 (one of the old carriages is on display at the Penang State Museum in George Town) and the track will take you up 1.99 kilometers (the longest in Asia), through a 79-meter tunnel (the steepest in Asia with a pitch of 27.9 degrees.

The best seats for the view are right at the front. En route, you get to pass some of the 52 hill bungalows, most of which are more than 100 years old – with the Governor’s Bungalow having been built in 1789.

You don’t have to take the funicular train to the top, there is a jeep road or a trail to the nearby Botanical Gardens, but it seems rude not to spend the 30 RM (10 RM for MyKad holders) for the return trip. It’s easy to get to the base station on the bus, but we just parked our rental motorbike along with all the rest and took the funicular to the top for the views.

There’s a bar and restaurant at the top but also a food court hidden further back where great Tom Yam Yee was had for a bargain 6 RM before we head down the funicular again, take in white coffee and head back to Georgetown.

From the top, you get an amazing view of the sea while you enjoy some drinks and snacks from the shops and eateries up here. It’s a very popular location, the best time to come is at lunchtime. Avoid coming at the weekend if you don’t like big crowds. You can also go at night and see Georgetown from the above twinkling with nightlights.

• Address of Cable Car to Penang Hill: 422, Jalan Bukit Bendera, 11500 Bukit Bendera, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Cable Car to Penang Hill: 6:30 AM to 11 PM
• Entry Fees for Cable Car to Penang Hill: RM10 ($2.24) for adults, RM5 ($1.12)for children (4-12), senior citizens, and students

4. Go to the Green Mansion aka the Penang Peranakan Mansion

Go there first, said the owner of our guest house, the Malabar Inn, go there before you go to the Blue Mansion he said and while not necessarily planning to do what we were told, that’s actually what we did.

The first ouch was the cost of entry. It’s now 20 RM to enter for adults, somewhat more than Lonely Planet promised us. Ah, said the ticket-selling dude, clearly used to this, but my boss has opened up a few more rooms and you can see the Jewelry Museum as well.

There’s no doubt that this is a stunning building, stuffed full of stunning items of furniture artifacts, but without much context, it was hard to summon much enthusiasm. It was owned by one of the most wealthy Baba-Nonyas of the 19th century – Chung Keng Quee.

The Green Mansion is also called Pinang Peranakan Mansion in Malay. It’s a 19th-century lavish mansion that is now turned into a museum displaying famous antiques and ornaments. This location is highly recommended to visit with a tour guide to help you understand the significance of the Green Mansion for Penang, but also because of how entertaining they make your visit. There are Mandarin and English-speaking tour guides available.

The mother-of-pearl inlaid furniture is beautiful, the collections of glassware and porcelain extensive, and the architecture of the house quite exquisite. The museum of jewelry (at the back and to the left) is air-conditioned – we spent quite a bit of time there.

• Address of Green Mansion: 29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Green Mansion: 9:30 Am to 5 PM, every day
• Entry Fees for Green Mansion: RM20 ($4.49) for adults and RM10 ($2.24) for children

5. Visit the Blue Mansion aka Cheong Fatt Tze

The Blue Mansion which is also known as Cheong Fatt Tze to the locals is only a 12-minute walk from the Green Mansion. The 19th-century Cheong Fatt Tze now functions as quaint boutique accommodation, event venue, and restaurant. ( You can check rates for the rooms at Cheong Fatt Tze here ) For visitors who don’t plan to book a room here, you can still pay for a tour that will take you through the story of the Blue Mansion.

Unless you’re eating at the restaurant or staying in one of the 9 boutique hotel rooms here, the only way to visit is to take a tour, which is offered at 11 am, 2 pm, and 330pm for 16.95 RM each including GST.

If you arrive at other times, touts outside will try and take you on a tour of the city or to the nearby Chocolate Museum.  The ticket office (on the left-hand side) opens 15 minutes before each tour time. Tickets are 16.90 (including GST) per adult. Photographs ARE allowed. Our tour was with the fantastic Pat, who was humorous, extremely well-informed, and very gracious.

Cheong Fatt Tze was a Hakka merchant who left China penniless and built up a fortune throughout East Asia, becoming the “Rockefeller of the East”.  He provided money to Sun Yat Sen to promote a Chinese Nationalist movement in 1911.  He had wives throughout the continent.  He met his love match (for the others were business marriages)here in Penang.    The mansion was built for this local wife and was built in the 1880s.  It is beautiful.   It contains tiles from Stoke on Trent in the UK, and iron staircases from Glasgow and uses the concepts of Feng Shui to maintain a pleasant temperature inside.

The mansion was purchased in a rundown state from Cheong Fatt Tze’s descendants in 1989 and has been completely renovated with all new everything put inside. The tour doesn’t just give you a history of the mansion, but of the man (and woman) behind it, the tour also gives detail on Feng Shui, the history of Penang, and a host of other interesting tidbits.  We left much more educated than we arrived.

The mansion starred in a famous French movie “Indochine” with Catherine Deneuve in 1993 – and since then became known as the Blue Mansion.  The beautiful indigo blue was popular in colonial times as mixing indigo with lime wash helped absorb moisture and dispel it without causing damage to the structure of the house.

• Address of Blue Mansion: 14, Lebuh Leith, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

6. Relax at Georgetown’s E&O Hotel

E&O Hotel is a shortened version of the name of the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, a magnificent colonial building constructed in 1885. For those who don’t plan on staying here while in Georgetown ( although you can check rates here ), you can still dine at the hotel’s Palm Court Restaurant located on the Heritage Wing. The E&O Hotel is also an incredible location for high tea and a great place to have a break between visiting attractions in Georgetown. It’s only a 13-minute walk from Fort Cornwallis.

We had afternoon tea at the E&O in late 2023 and it was fabulous. A real treat. Oh and then we also returned for cocktails later, which were glorious!

The Eastern and Oriental (E&O) Hotel was built in 1885 by the Sarkie family, they’re also responsible for the building of the Raffles Hotel in Singapore.  it claimed in 1927 that its seafront was the longest of any hotel in the world.  Folks who’ve stayed here that you might recognize include the Sultan of Brunei , Rudyard Kipling, Douglas Fairbanks, Sir Noel Coward, Charlie Chaplin, and Somerset Maughan.

• Address of E&O Hotel: 10, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

7. Visit the Clan Jetty and the Stilt Villages of Georgetown

The Clan Jetties of Penang are a UNESCO Heritage Site.  They are a traditional village where houses are built on stilts over the reclamation water. There are different villages, but they are all right next to each other. There are wooden walkways that will take you right from the main road all the way to the end that overlooks the water. There are restaurants and shops, many are built to attract visitors to the villages.

You can easily get here from pretty much anywhere in Georgetown.  The Jetties of Penang are near Terminal Jeti Georgetown or Marina Georgetown Harbor.  The Stilt Villages are 8 minutes southeast of Little India on foot, towards the water.

• Address of Name of Attraction: Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

8. Check out Colonial Georgetown

Georgetown is a very significant historical location from the colonial era. The local government has done a fantastic job to keep its heritage sites maintained and standing today. Apart from Fort Cornwallis, State Museum, E&O Hotel, City Hall, and St. George’s Church, there are many other attractions in Georgetown that you can visit as part of your colonial exploration.

You can learn more about all the colonial aspects of Georgetown and Penang on a variety of tours around the city (and island) – but this is a really well-rated tour to take.

This includes Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower, the High Court, the Wisma Building, the Georgetown Dispensary, and Suffolk House. I recommend you plan an entire day exploring heritage sites related to the colonial times of Penang. Start at Fort Cornwallis, take a break at the E&O Hotel for high tea, and finish off at Suffolk House Restaurant for a beautiful and tasty dinner.

9. Visit Fort Cornwallis in Georgetown, Penang

Georgetown has many preserved colonial buildings, but Fort Cornwallis is one of the most popular. It is an 18th-century English Fortress where the original buildings are still standing. You’ll see cannons, an armory, and other historical artifacts. You can also hire a local guide to help you explore the area. Fort Cornwallis undergoes regular maintenance to ensure the safety of the visitors and preserve the location.   If you choose to take a guided tour of Georgetown ( I recommend this one ) then you’ll get to see Fort Cornwallis.

In 1786 Captain Francis Light took possession of Penang on behalf of the East India Company, renaming the island to be the Prince of Wales Island.  It was at the site of the fort that Light first set foot on Penang.

Named for Charles Cornwallis (he surrendered at the battle of Yorktown to George Washington), building this fort was the first thing that Sir Francis Light did when arriving in Penang.  It’s a shadow of its former self and doesn’t warrant the 20 RM entrance fee considering how little of it remains, however, it was empty when we visited, just one other couple walking around with their free bottle of water and selfie stick.

Originally built as a nibong palm stockade, it was replaced by a brick structure and moat in 1804-5, after outbreaks of malaria amongst the soldiers the moat was filled up in 1922.

• Address of Fort Cornwallis: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Fort Cornwallis: 9 AM to 10 PM
• Entry Fees for Fort Cornwallis: RM5 ($1.12)

10. Visit St. George’s Church in Georgetown, Penang

St. George Church is another building founded during colonial times. This 19th-century building is an Anglican church located right in the heart of Georgetown, about a 7-minute walk from Fort Cornwallis.  The Church was built in 1817 and claims to be one of the oldest Anglican Churches in South East Asia. The Church of St. George has a massive green space that you can walk around after visiting the interior of the church.

• Address of St George’s Church: 1, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

11. Explore the Temples of Georgetown

Traveling through Georgetown wouldn’t be complete without visiting its exquisite temples. These temples are proof that Penang has a massive community of locals with different cultural and spiritual backgrounds. The best way to visit all the temples is to join a tour that presents racial harmony in Penang . Mass migration to the island started in 1786 which invites people from many places in the world.  This 4-hour tour has a very knowledgeable local guide to help you understand and learn more about Penang and its community.  If you prefer to wander around on your own, then here are the must-see temples in Georgetown.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si is a Buddhist temple in the Air Itam area, southwest of Georgetown. It’s located on a hilltop and is known for its colorful and magnificent decorations. The temple of Kek Lok Si also showcases many Buddha images all around the complex. This 7-story pagoda is surrounded by 10,00 Buddha statues. On top of the hill, you can enjoy a nice view of the town and the green area.

You can reach the top on foot or take the funicular. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the temple. There is no entrance fee, but a donation will go a long way to keep the temple maintained. If you are here during the Chinese New Year, the amazing lanterns will be lit up making the temple rather lovely.

• Address of Kek Lok Si Temple: Kek Lok Si Temple, Jln Balik Pulau, 11500 Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Kek Lok Si Temple: 8:30 Am to 5:30 PM, every day
• Entry Fees for Kek Lok Si Temple: Free, RM6 ($1.35) for adults and RM3 ($0.67) for children to ride the funicular

Kapitan Keling Mosque

Kapitan Keling Mosque is a massive Indian Muslim place of worship in central Georgetown. The mosque was built in the 19th century with impressive mixed architecture. When you visit and enter the Mosque of Kapitan Keling, you must wear appropriate clothes. You can also share the landscaped grounds with the rabbits that roam freely here.

• Address of Kapitan Keling Mosque: 14, Jalan Buckingham, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Kapitan Keling Mosque: 5 AM to 10 PM daily

Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Sri Mahamariamman is a Hindu temple that dates back to the 1800s. It has a tower in the middle guarded by colorful deities. It’s only a 3-minute walk from Kapital Keling Mosque, in the heart of Little India. The temple is a little small but very well-kept.

• Address of Sri Mahamariamman Temple: Queen St, Georgetown, 10450 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Sri Mahamariamman Temple: 8 AM to 12 PM, then from 5 PM to 9 PM every day

Goddess of Mercy Temple

Goddess of Mercy is a Taoist Buddhist temple from 1728. It was built to honor Guanyin, a bodhisattva and Goddess of Mercy. Many locals come here daily to pray and pay respects to their ancestors. Although there are free joss sticks, you can only use them outside. It is one of the first temples built on the island making it a historical site as well.

• Address of Goddess of Mercy Temple: 30, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Goddess of Mercy Temple: 8 AM to 6 PM

Hean Boo Thean Temple

Hean Boo Thean Kuan Yin Temple is another Buddhist place of worship. It’s a little different from the other temples as it has open-air shrines with a view of the water. It’s decorated with many colorful lanterns and a wide open space. Hean Boo Thean Temple is situated very near the Clan Jetty.

• Address of Hean Boo Thean Kuan Yin Temple: No. A Reclamation Area, 52, Pengkalan Weld, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Hean Boo Thean Kuan Yin Temple: daily from 9 AM to 2 PM, then 4 PM to 6 PM

Explore Khoo Kongsi – the Chinese clan temple

Khoo Kongsi also called Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi by the locals is a Chinese clan temple and museum. It’s a beautiful well-preserved historic architecture that presents the Chea clan’s heritage. The Chea clan migrated to Malaysia from China in the 18th century and built this temple in the 19th century as a refugee home for immigrants from the same ancestral village of the clan.

The building now serves as a temple and a museum that displays murals, historical facts, and stone cravings. You can wander on your own since there is information you can read, however, it’s best to have a tour guide who can tell you more detailed facts.

• Address of Kho Kongsi: 18, Cannon Square, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Kho Kongsi: 9 AM to 5 PM, daily
• Entry Fees for Kho Kongsi: RM10 ($2.24)

12. Explore Georgetown History at the Protestant Cemetery

The Protestant Cemetery was built right after the British East India Company established a base in Penang. The founder of Georgetown, Sir Francis Light was buried here among other historic personalities such as Thomas Leonowens – the man who married Anna from “the King and I” movie – real-life fame.- Anna (her real name) taught the children of British officers after his death and then took up the post of Siam royal governess in 1862, three years after her husband’s death in Penang.

You can find the Protestant Cemetery near E&O Hotel and the Blue Mansion.

• Address of Protestant Cemetery: Jln Sultan Ahmad Shah, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

13. Wander through Georgetown’s Five Foot Ways

Five Foot Ways is an idea Stamford Raffles came up with. The concept was each shop must have a covered walking path that protected pedestrians from rain and sun. The size of these walkways had to be at least five feet from the shop’s main door on the front street.

It was a great idea and was implemented. But in reality, these walkways became an extension of the shop and even a parking spot for motorbikes or bicycles. All the Five Foot Ways are designed with a colonial ceiling arch, a very unique feature of Penang. You shouldn’t have a hard time finding them, especially in older buildings.

14. Go to the State Museum of Penang and Art Gallery

The Penang State Museum displays cultural, heritage, and art exhibitions regarding the history of Penang and World War II. It is located between Fort Cornwallis and the E&O Hotel, which is a 7-minute walk from both places. The State Museum of Penang and Art Gallery is situated in a spacious 19th-century school building.

The artifacts are on the main ground floor while the art gallery is on the second floor. You should plan to spend an hour to an hour and a half here.

The museum provides an easy (air-conditioned) introduction to Penang and Malaysian museums.  It’s cheap for a start, (just 1RM) and gives you a route to follow (most Malay museums are ambiguous on direction), detailed information boards, and some interesting displays.  Plus, you can take photos – a bonus after India. This lovely building was originally the Penang Free School, built in 1896 and the displays provide humor too, likening the Chinese foot wrapping to stiletto-heeled shoes…

• Address of State Museum of Penang and Art Gallery: Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of State Museum of Penang and Art Gallery: 9 AM to 5 PM, every day except Fridays and public holidays
• Entry Fees for State Museum of Penang and Art Gallery: RM1 ($0.22) for adults, RM0.50 ($0.11) for children

15. Take a photo of City Hall

The City Hall of Penang is another beautiful heritage building from the colonial era with neo-Baroque architecture. Today, the City Hall is a government building that houses the Municipal Council, and you’re not, as a tourist, allowed to enter the premises but you are more than welcome to take pictures right at its front gate. You can get here from Fort Cornwallis on foot in just 5-minutes.

• Address of City Hall: Jalan Padang Kota Lama, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

16. Go to the Penang Botanical Gardens in Georgetown

Penang’s Botanical Gardens is at the foot of Penang Hill with 12 sections of many tropical flowers and spices. It is a fantastic public place to spend an afternoon walking around and learning about different plants and flowers that thrive in Malaysian soil and climate. There is a beautiful landscape and hundreds of botanical exhibits. You will find orchids, cacti, lily pods, cannonball trees, and so much more.

The Penang Botanical Garden is located northwest of Georgetown Center, a 20-minute drive. When you arrive at the Botanical Garden of Penang, you can walk on your own or take the tram for a more convenient way to explore the area. There are a lot of wild monkeys within the garden, remember to not give them any food and hold on to your belongings as they can be aggressive.

• Address of Penang Botanical Gardens: Kompleks Pentadbiran,Bangunan Pavilion, Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Penang Botanical Gardens: 8 AM to 5 PM, closed on Saturday and Sunday
• Entry Fees for Penang Botanical Gardens: Free

17. Go to the Penang Road Market

Penang Road is closed for vehicles on the last weekend of the month. The street is taken over by stalls, vendors will be selling handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, fruits, snacks, and street food. Make sure to come and check it out if you happen to be here. Make sure to haggle your way around especially when it comes to souvenirs.

18. Visit Little India in Penang

Penang’s Little India is a colorful and vibrant neighborhood in the middle of Georgetown with stores and vendors of Indian products. They sell clothing, food, jewelry, and even furniture. This area is one of the many proofs of how culturally diverse Penang is. If you are craving some Indian food, the area of Little India is the best place to find it.

• Address of Penang Little India: Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

19. Visit the Jewish Cemetery in Georgetown

Penang’s Jewish Cemetery is situated west of Georgetown. There are not many Jewish heritage sites in Southeast Asia making this cemetery highlight significant to Penang. This cemetery might be small but it’s well-maintained. The Jewish Cemetery is worth a visit since it’s the resting place of many soldiers who fought during World War II. There is no fee to enter, but a donation is appreciated which is used for maintenance.

• Address of Jewish Cemetery: Jalan Zainal Abidin, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

20. Take the Ferry across the straits of Malacca

The island of Penang is separated from mainland Malaysia by the Straits of Malacca. You can take a quick ferry ride from Georgetown across to Butterworth and admire the town from the top deck of the ferry. The best time to do this is in the afternoon just before the sunset, where you can catch a spectacular sunset view.  The Georgetown-Butterworth ferry travels between these two cities every 30-minutes. You can get your ticket at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal Super Fast Ferry or Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal (Pulau Pinang) in Georgetown.

• Address of Pulau Pinang: Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Pulau Pinang: 5 AM to 11 PM
• Entry Fees for Pulau Pinang: RM1 ($0.22) to RM8 ($1.79)

21. Visit the Upside Down Museum in Georgetown

A visit to the Upside Down Museum will bring out the child in you (and it’s a fabulous place to get an awesome shot for Instagram). It’s a playful museum featuring rooms that are set to make any photo you take very confusing and fun, if you’re heading to Kuching, then there’s another one there too. It’s in an interactive set-up where you can touch or hold the furniture to make the pictures cool and exciting. The creative staff will help you plan a fun pose and take photos, so don’t worry if you’re traveling solo.

• Address of Upside Down Museum: 45, Lebuh Kimberley, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Upside Down Museum: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM
• Entry Fees for Upside Down Museum: RM29 for adult foreign visitors and RM 18 for children, for Malaysian citizens – RM21 ($4.71)for adults and RM10 ($2.24) for children

22. Visit the Wonderfood Museum of Penang

The Wonderfood Museum is another way to understand Penang’s love for food and art. This museum features ridiculously life-size versions of popular Malay dishes. You will also learn about the history of Malaysian food, the museum creates awareness about food waste as well.  You can reserve your visit to Wonderfood here.

Be creative and take cute and funny images with these interactive displays of art. If you are visiting alone, the staff are more than happy to help you take playful photos. Even though these dishes are fake, they look real enough and will definitely make you hungry. Remember to get your ticket in advance and skip the line especially if you plan to come during the weekend.

• Address of Wonderfood Museum: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Wonderfood Museum: 9 AM to 6 PM
• Entry Fees for Wonderfood Museum: RM25 ($5.61) for adult foreign visitors and RM15 ($3.37) for children and senior citizens,RM15 ($3.37) for local adults, and RM10 ($2.24) for children and senior citizens

23. Visit the Habitat on Penang Hill

A Habitat is a magnificent place in the middle of Penang Hill. It is a fabulous place to enjoy the sunset and immerse yourself in the natural world right here in the middle of the island. Penang’s the Habitat showcases the excellent rainforest of Penang Hill where wild monkeys and other wild animals are living. While in the Habitat, you can see beautiful fauna and flora. If you come in the morning, it could be misty adding such a thrilling vibe to your experience.   You can check what else you can expect to see here.

You can simply walk on your own with or without a tour guide, while you can also take the funicular train that makes the trip a bit more relaxing. In the middle of the Habitat is a very long but magnificent canopy walk in the middle of the jungle. It’s best to buy the ticket online to avoid the long queue at the ticket desk.

• Address of Habitat: Jalan Stesen, Bukit Bendera Air Itam, 11500 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours of Habitat: 9 AM to 7 AM
• Entry Fees for Habitat: RM60 ($13.46) for adults and RM40 ($8.97) for children and senior citizens

Map of the Best Things to do in George Town, Penang

You can also see the full map of George Town things to do here.

Food and Drink in Georgetown, Penang

There are literally dozens of dishes that you have to try while in Georgetown. Malay, Indian, Chinese, and even international cuisines are all over the island. You can check our extensive Penang food guide , but here’s a quick highlight of the best dishes and places to eat in Georgetown.

Eat at a Hawker Center in Georgetown

Hawker centers are an incredible location to try out many street foods of Penang. There are plenty of them scattered all over Penang Island. But if you are looking for one right in the middle of Georgetown, go to the Pregrave Street Hawker Center or Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls . You will find dozens of different dishes, snacks, and drinks to choose from.

I highly recommend you try fried oyster, laksa, Hokkien prawn mee, ckt (char koay teow), and ice kacang. Heck, I recommend you try everything.  Browse the food stalls first and compare the prices.

Eat in Little India, Georgetown, Penang

Little India is another location that is a popular place to eat at in Georgetown. If you want to sit down in a restaurant, Sri Ananda Bahwan, Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant, and Sardaarji – Flavours of Punjab are all amazing. While for food stalls, check out Penang Famous Samosa and Nasi Kandar Imigresen.

Drink Cocktails at Beach Blanket Babylon

After you stuff yourself with all this fabulous, but highly affordable food, take a little walk and go to Beach Blanket Babylon. Enjoy a few cocktails and happy hour. If you come a little early, it’s also a nice place to watch the sunset and cool down with a sea breeze, while listening to the waves.

Where to Stay in Georgetown, Penang

There are a host of places to stay in Georgetown, Penang – here’s our pick of the luxury places to stay in Georgetown, Penang, mid-range places to stay in Georgetown, Penang, and budget accommodation in Georgetown, Penang.

Campbell House, Penang–Georgetown : Campbell House is situated right at the heart of Georgetown Penang. This Georgetown hotel’s rooms are beautifully decorated and include black-out curtains, a flat-screen TV, a ceiling fan, a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, a hairdryer, slippers, a coffee maker, and free WiFi access. The top Georgetown hotel also offers Italian cuisine at Il Bacaro; where their must-try signature dish is Venetian Cicchetti, small plates of food eaten with glasses of wine. Campbell House in Georgetown provides is a glorious and luxurious place to stay in Penang’s main city. See room rates and availability for this top Georgetown hotel here.

Palm Mansion Boutique Suites, Penang–Georgetown : The Palm Mansion Boutique Suites is ideally located right in the center of Georgetown. Each room at this mid-range Georgetown hotel is equipped with a flat-screen tv with satellite channels, an attached private bathroom, and free WiFi. Room service is available here and there’s also a quaint coffee shop. This central Georgetown hotel provides laundry services and also has a small garden.  The Palm Mansion Boutique Suites is a lovely place to stay in central Georgetown . Check room rates and available dates here.

Veno Hotel, Penang–Georgetown : The Veno Hotel has an exceptional location right in the center of Penang’s Georgetown. The budget Veno Hotel’s rooms have a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, iron/ironing board, an in-room safe, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer, toiletries, and towels. There’s free WiFi throughout. Veno Hotel offers an excellent, comfortable budget-friendly hotel. The Veno Hotel is really popular so check room rates and availability here!

Malaysia Travel Tips

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• Save money in Malaysia with a Wise debit card
• Book Buses in Malaysia with BusonlineTicket
• Book accommodation in Malaysia with Booking

How to Get Around Georgetown, Penang

Traveling within Penang Island is pretty easy. There are various modes of transportation you can choose from. The public buses go everywhere, while there are double-decker buses specifically designed to accommodate the visitors of Georgetown. Grab, the ride-hailing app is also available on the island, and so are traditional taxis. Rental of motorbikes and push bikes are also common.  We had a great time renting a motorbike and touring the island, my only comment would be – try not to follow trucks that are loaded with durian….

Where is Georgetown, Penang

Georgetown is the city of Penang Island located in the northeast of the island. Penang Island is on the west coast of the Penang Region in northwest Malaysia, near Kedah and not too far from the border with Thailand along the Strait of Malacca.

When is the best time to travel to Georgetown, Penang

The best time to visit Georgetown, Penang is from November to January when the weather is cool and not too hot. But remember that those months are also the busiest time and peak seasons. If you want to avoid that, February to April is also a great time to come to Georgetown.

How to get to Georgetown, Penang

From Kuala Lumpur, the best way to reach Georgetown is by taking an hour direct flight, the ticket costs are about RM70-RM110 ($15-$25). There are many flights daily between Air Asia and Malaysian Airlines. If you’re staying in Kuala Lumpur, then our guide of what to do in Malaysia’s capital city is here.

• Our guide on how to go from Langkawi to Penang is here
• Our guide on how to go from Penang to Cameron Highlands is here

Final Words on The 23 Best Things to do in Georgetown, Penang

Georgetown is a fantastic place to explore especially if it’s your first time in Penang. If you’re interested in colonial architecture, history, and street arts, and don’t shy away from unique food, Georgetown, Penang is just perfect for you.  George Town and Penang have been wonderful.  Food to get fat for, friendly people, easy places to visit, and oodles of history in what feels like an amazingly well-put-together cultural melting pot that takes the best from each culture – or at least lets you pick and choose.

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Sarah Carter

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3 thoughts on “ The 23 Best Things to Do in Georgetown, Penang Island ”

• 3 comments

Hello, I loved your post. Very helpful for my upcoming trip. I do have one question I can’t seem to find an answer to anywhere. I want to rent a motorbike when I arrive, but I have been living in Asia so long, my license has expired. Do the rental shops require a valid license or will a passport be enough? Thanks!

Thanks for the comments! All we ever needed through all of Asia was a passport left as a deposit. You’ll love it!

Oh a PS there was one place in Malaysia that NEEDED a driving license and that’s Cameron Highlands because of all the foreign workers there police stops are frequent and you do need a license there!

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

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

How Many Days in Penang, Malaysia?

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

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

About Our Penang Itinerary 5 Days

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

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

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

George Town, Penang History

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

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

Origins of Georgetown

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

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

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

Penang Street Art

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

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

Penang Art District

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

Street Art Penang: What To See

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

The Best Penang Itinerary  

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

DAY 1: Visit Penang Itinerary

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

What To Do in Georgetown Penang

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

Georgetown Penang Attractions Map

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

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

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

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

#1 Queen Victoria Memorial Clock (Jubilee Clock Tower)

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

#2 Fort Cornwallis

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

#3 Penang Town Hall and City Hall

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

#4 St. George’s Anglican Church

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

#5 Church of the Assumption

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

#6 Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion

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

#7 Trishaw Man Mural

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

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

#8 Thean Hou Temple

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

#9 Kung Fu Girl Mural

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

#10 The Indian Boatman Mural

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

#11 Goddess of Mercy Temple  

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

#12 Pinang Peranakan Mansion

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

#13 Little India

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

#14 Sri Mahamariamman Temple

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

#15 Kapitan Keling Mosque

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

#16 Yap Temple

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

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

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

#18 Penang Islamic Museum

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

#19 Lebuh Aceh Mosque

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

#20 Reaching Up Mural

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

#21 Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

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

#22 Armenian Street Penang

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

#23 Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple

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

#24 Children on Bicycle Mural

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

#25 Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Clan House

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

#26 China House

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

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

#27 Boy on Motorbike Mural

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

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

#28 Children Playing Basketball Mural

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

#29 Brother and Sister on Swings Mural

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

#30 Chinese Clan Jetties

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

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

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

After Your George Town Penang Walk

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

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

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

DAY 2: Penang Activities on Penang Hill

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

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

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

Getting from Georgetown to Penang Hill

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

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

Ascend to The Top of Penang Hill

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

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

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

Kek Lok Si Temple

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

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

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

Penang Botanical Garden

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

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

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

Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

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

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

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

DAY 3: Penang Beach and Temples

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

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

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

Getting from Georgetown to Batu Ferringhi

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

Visit Penang Temples

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

Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

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

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

Batu Ferringhi

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

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

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

DAY 4: Discover More Things To Do in Penang Georgetown

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

Explore Penang George Town without a Checklist

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

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

More Fun Activities in Penang

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

DAY 5: Penang National Park Day Trip

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

Penang National Park

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

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

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

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

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

What To Do at Penang National Park

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

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

More Things To Do in Teluk Bahang

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

Escape Theme Park

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

Penang Butterfly Farm

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

Tropical Spice Garden

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

Penang Food and Drink

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

Penang Foodie Haven

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

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

Street Food in Penang

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

What and Where to Eat in Penang

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

Char Koay Teow

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

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

Tandoori Chicken

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

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

Beef Murtabak

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

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

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

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

Oyster Omelet (Oh Chien)

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

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

Nasi Kandar

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

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

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

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

Crispy Duck with Rice

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

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

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

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

Fruit Rojak

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

Best Place for Rojak: Gurney Drive Hawker Center

Penang Night Market

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

International Food Penang

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

Food Tour Penang

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

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

Penang Nightlife

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

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

More Things To Do in Penang, Malaysia

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

Penang Museums

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

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

Shopping in Penang

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

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

Penang Activities

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

Google Map Penang

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

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

Additional Penang Suggested Itineraries

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

Penang Half Day Trip

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

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

Penang Itinerary 1 Day

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

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

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

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

2 Day Penang Itinerary 

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

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

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

Penang Itinerary 3 Days

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

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

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

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

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

Penang Itinerary 4 Days

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

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

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

Penang Travel Tips and Trip Planning

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

Planning a Trip to Penang

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

Getting to Penang

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Penang

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

Where To Stay in Penang, Malaysia

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

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

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

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

 Read our Tips for Finding the Best Hotels for Cheap !

What To Pack for your Penang Trip

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

Walking Shoes for Penang

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

Best Travel Camera to Photograph Penang

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

Penang Weather-Appropriate Gear & Day Bag

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

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

Travel Insurance for your Penang Vacation

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

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

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10 best things to do in Georgetown, Penang – ultimate travel guide

The colourful, sun-kissed island of Penang lies off peninsular Malaysia’s north western coast, and Georgetown (also spelt George Town) is its multicultural capital. I adored this city when I visited, falling completely in love with its vibrancy.

In this waterside location, stately colonial structures rub shoulders with old Chinese shophouses and ancient temples. 

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Georgetown, I’ve got you covered with my handpicked guide. I’ve put together these top picks based on my personal experiences of visiting, plus a few recommendations from fellow travellers.

For me, the highlights of any visit to Penang include sampling street food from various cuisines, exploring colonial and vibrantly decorated buildings, and discovering the local street art scene as well as the waterfront.

The centre of the city is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to populations of immigrants from India and China as well as other parts of Malaysia.

This is reflected in the local fusion cuisine, and the fact that all cultures rub along most harmoniously is something for Penang to be immensely proud of. It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Asia .

In this guide, I cover every major tourist attraction in Penang’s Georgetown. Plus, you’ll find my recommendations of where to eat, what to see and do, and the best places to stay.  

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

10 best things to do in Georgetown, Penang

If you’re wondering what to do in Malaysia’s Georgetown, here are my top 10 recommendations.

From street art and street food to amazing colonial and Chinese architecture, I know there’s something here for all types of traveller. 

1. Street art tour

Book: Street Arts of George Town from Penang

I think one of the most interesting facts about the Georgetown street art scene is the fact that it was largely planned by the local council.

They hired a London art school graduate in 2012, with the intention of revitalising the original Chinese shophouses dotted around town.

The Little Girl In Blue is Ernest Zacharevic’s best-known piece. This appealing 20 foot figure in aqua blue pyjamas can be found on Muntri Street. There are plenty of smaller displays to admire too.

Other areas I’d recommend exploring include Weld Quay, Jalan Penang, Leith Street, Ah Quee Street and Armenian Street. All of which have some intriguing and interesting examples of the street art genre.

2. Street food

• 4-Hour Georgetown Food Tour
• Penang Evening Walking Foods Tour

Sampling locally produced street food can mean trying some of the best food in Georgetown. Penang Road Market is my favourite place for this, and is a popular location among locals and tourists.

While for many, the best street food available in Georgetown comes from the various hawker centres. This includes Chulia Street’s night time selection of stalls and various food courts dotted around town.

The food often fuses flavours from Indian, Chinese and Malaysian cooking.

Must-try treats include fried roti canai dough, Assam laksa soup, dim sum, char koay teow noodles and nasi lemak – which is Malaysia’s national dish.

For those with a sweet tooth, I’m sure the sweets available in Little India will provide a satisfying sugar hit.

As well as the street food, Penang is home to some outstanding Indian, Chinese, Malaysian and fine dining restaurants. Some of these can be found at the hotels recommended later on in my guide.

3. The Blue Mansion

Book: Guided Tour of Cheong Fatt Tze’s Blue Mansion in George Town

Officially known as Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion , I think this striking blue building is a must-see for visitors.

Due to its location on Leith Street, it can also be seen while exploring the Georgetown Malaysia street art scene around the area.

This restored heritage property featured in the 2009 movie The Blue Mansion as well as other productions.

Visitors who tour the structure can see seven staircases and 38 rooms, plus highlights such as art nouveau style stained glass windows, courtyards paved with granite and Chinese floor tiling. 

The mansion also operates as a boutique hotel, so I’d recommend booking a stay at this charming, historic property. 

4. Kek Lok Si Temple

Book: Penang Tour: Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si is the biggest Buddhist temple to be found anywhere in Malaysia. It occupies a dramatic location atop Air Itam hill, and has dominated the landscape here since the late 19th century.

The vast site is divided into lower, middle and hilltop sections, culminating with a huge Goddess of Mercy statue set among temple buildings and gardens.

At the middle section there is a pagoda and the pavilion of the Four Heavenly Kings, as well as gardens and other structures.

The bottom level is home to the turtle liberation pond and a variety of refreshments and gift stalls.

Climbing all the staircases to the top requires some effort, but I promise you that it’s worth the ascent if you’re able to!

5. Fort Cornwallis

Kota Cornwallis is a star-shaped fort originally constructed in the late 18th century, and I think it’s well worth visiting.

Its intended function was to defend Penang against hostile Kedah forces, pirates and even – at the time of the Napoleonic Wars – French invasion. The star shape was intended to allow for all-round defence.

Malaysia’s largest surviving fort was named after a British Army general who was known for a time as Earl Cornwallis. In reality, the bastion was used more as an administration centre than anything else.

Today, the 10 foot high walls encircle the gardens, which contain a statue of British explorer Captain Francis Light, the man credited with the founding of Penang.

6. Clan Jetties

• Penang: Flexible Full-Day Adventures
• Half Day Penang City Tour (5 Hours)

At the very end of Chulia Street you can find a portion of the Penang Heritage Trail known as the Clan Jetties, dating from the late 19th century.

Each of these landing stages was populated and controlled by a particular Chinese clan – hence the name.

These old landing stages are still home to a number of clans, including the Chew, Lim, Tan, Yeoh, Lee and Koay groups.

The Chew Jetty is the most popular among tourists, and I can see why. Here you can see – and capture on camera – a lengthy walkway, stilt houses, and even a Chinese temple.

7. Hin Bus Depot

Though its name may suggest a public transport hub, Georgetown’s Hin Bus Depot is actually a thriving centre for creativity in Penang.

The depot houses exhibition and events spaces, as well as a gallery, and I love the atmosphere here.

The founding of Hin Bus Depot as an arty hub is down to none other than Ernest Zacharevic. He was the Lithuanian artist brought in to establish Georgetown’s street art scene.

A group of artists breathed new life into the neglected structure, which first welcomed members of the public in early 2014.

8. Khoo Kongsi

• Penang City Private Half Day Tour With Khoo Kongsi & Kek Lok Si
• Penang City & Temple Tour with Penang Hill(Fast Lane) & Kek Lok Si

First constructed over six centuries ago, Khoo Kongsi is arguably the finest example of a clan house in south east Asia.

As Penang’s most famous kongsi, also referred to as Dragon Mountain Hall , it was formerly where members of Chinese clans came together to pay homage to their ancestral line. 

Khoo Kongsi is ornate in decoration. Its most impressive features include the entrance hall’s stone carvings, elaborate murals, ceramic sculptures and over 35 guardian statues.

The structure is set on a square of granite and is lit within by glowing orange paper lanterns. I really thought this was a wonderful place to explore.

9. China House

China House comprises three original buildings linked by one outdoor courtyard. Today, China House is one of the key Georgetown attractions for numerous visitors and I definitely recommend adding it to your itinerary.

It is home to an eclectic mix of outlets including a bakery, cafes, restaurants, shops and galleries. Live music is often played here too, and there are also reading and kids’ zones. 

With over 30 cakes available daily, numerous Insta-worthy locations and restaurant menus for all budgets, China House is a vibrant and interesting place to visit.

I’d also suggest looking out for a tiny singing cat sculpture and an ultra tall mirror!

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10. Colonial architecture and influences 

The history of George Town in Penang is fascinating and in part down to the failure of the Portuguese who attempted to colonise it before the British arrived.

When first founded, it was known as Prince of Wales Island, although the capital was known as George Town from the start.

Due to its rich and varied history, Penang boasts a number of colonial style buildings.

For me, the best examples include the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower, the High Court, the Wisma Building, the Penang State Museum, the City Hall, the Georgetown Dispensary, Suffolk House, Anglican St George’s Church and the Eastern and Oriental Hotel.

Best time to visit Penang 

I love that there are plenty of things to do in Georgetown, Penang, at any time of year.

From November to January the climatic conditions are dry, while February, March and April tend to be quieter once the New Year festivities have passed.

It’s warmer and more humid between May and October, but there is lots to do whatever the weather.

How to get to Penang

Most visitors will travel via Kuala Lumpur to George Town, Penang, and the national carrier alone operates over 20 daily flights between the Malaysian capital and the island.

It’s also possible to drive from many destinations via the North-South Highway, or to take a six-hour train trip from KL.

Weather in Penang

Georgetown Penang weather is coolest and driest during November, December and January; so I’d recommend visiting during these months if you don’t like the intense humidity of the warmer months.

From August to October in particular you can expect more tropical weather, with high humidity and more rainfall.

The period between February and July lies somewhere between the two extremes. 

Where to stay in Penang 

I’m pleased to say that there is a wide range of accommodation in Georgetown and Penang to suit all budgets and requirements. Here are my top recommendations.

1. Eastern and Oriental Hotel

I’d recommend booking a stay at the Eastern and Oriental Hotel just to see the stunning colonial facades it boasts – one facing Georgetown and the other overlooking the sea.

This all-suite hotel was built by the Sarkies brothers who founded Singapore’s famous Raffles Hotel, and it shows. 

Known simply as the E&O to most, it has a series of elegant eateries and bars, where you can sample both a Singapore Sling and an E&O Sling.

If you want a 5 star hotel in Georgetown Penang with an illustrious history, this is without doubt the place to book.

2. The Blue Mansion

Sample the Blue Mansion from an entirely different perspective by booking a stay at the boutique hotel it houses.

From decorative arched windows and original wooden floors to simple clean linens and ornate rugs, I love that the place is packed with character. It’s also very centrally located.  

3. Seven Terraces

Tucked away on Stewart Lane in central Georgetown, Seven Terraces offers a range of accommodation in suites and apartments.

All of Penang’s star attractions can easily be reached on foot from here, and the on-site restaurant is highly recommended by past guests in particular.

4. SUNRISE Gurney Seaview Luxury Duplex

Offering panoramic views over the water from floor-to-ceiling windows, the SUNRISE Gurney Seaview Luxury Duplex offers a friendly welcome, private parking and lots of well-equipped, light-filled space.

With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, up to six guests can be accommodated in style. 

5. Hotel Jen Penang

Belonging to the upmarket Shangri-La group, Hotel Jen offers a range of double, twin and family rooms.

This contemporary hotel is centrally located and offers modern amenities like a 24-hour gym and complimentary beach shuttle service.

Guests staying here are also welcome to use the pool at Shangri-La’s Golden Sands resort in Batu Ferringhi. 

How long to spend in Georgetown

How long you stay in Penang’s Georgetown really depends on what you want to do while you’re there. There are various Georgetown highlights that will appeal to the interests of different people.

Architecture buffs, for example, may easily spend a week wandering around the city, admiring the many fine examples of Chinese and colonial structures.

Arty types may wish to spend a while seeking out the street art, as well as at China House and the Hin Bus Depot.

From the night market in Georgetown to the fine dining restaurants found at luxury hotels, there is also a thriving food scene that I’d recommend sampling during your stay.

I’d say that around three nights, or a long weekend, is plenty for most visitors. I’d recommend combining a spell in Georgetown with a beach break in or close to Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah, on the island’s northern coast. 

Is Georgetown, Penang safe?

The short answer is yes, Georgetown i safe, as rates of violent crime are very low.

As with many tourist haunts, the main issues tend to be petty thefts like pickpocketing and snatching, so do always keep your valuables close to you and out of sight.

With extremely helpful and friendly locals, I think Georgetown is perfectly suited to solo travellers. Just be sure to follow the usual solo travel advice and you’ll be just fine.

Have you been to Georgetown or have any recommendations? Let me know in the comments or get in touch on social media!

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

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

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

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

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

Penang travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

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View all travel tips on: Penang .

1. Kek Lok Si Temple

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

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2. Penang Hill

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

See rates & book online

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

3. Penang Hill Tram Ride

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

4. Penang Food Trip

5. Fort Cornwallis

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

6. Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower

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

7. Old Penang Town Hall & City Hall

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

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

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

9. Kapitan Keling Mosque

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

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

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

11. Little India

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

12. Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple

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

13. Yap Kongsi Temple

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

14. Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Clan Temple

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

15. Love Lane

16. St George’s Anglican Church

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

17. Church of the Assumption

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

18. Malaysian Railway Building (Wisma Kastam)

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

19. Abandoned Shin Chung Branch School

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

20. Christian Cemetery

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

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

Places to visit in Penang

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

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Penang

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

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

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The best way to Exploring George Town, Penang for A Day

If you tell me to define George Town, Penang , I’d say it’s a perfect blend of diverse cultures, colonial architecture, and delicious food. What else of a reason do you need to visit this magical town? The history of George Town, Penang goes way back to the British colonial times, which is noticeable in its architecture. As a result, the town is slightly different from other Malaysian towns.

George Town, Penang, was named after King George the 3rd . You’ll see people of diverse cultural backgrounds living here, like- Malaysian, Chinese and Indian. Due to such diversities, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site.

If you’ve never been to George Town, Penang before, I’ll tell you everything about what to do, see, and eat in this city. If you’re someone like me who often travels with family, George Town , Penang is the perfect location to check out.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Exploring George Town, Penang: Major Attractions To Visit

George town world heritage inc..

If you want to dive deeper into the town’s history, you should head to the George Town World Heritage Inc. , which is an information centre. It’s a beautiful white two-storied building. Here, you can learn more about the city and its places to visit or buy a map.

There’s a good collection of books, magazines, and journals available for you. However, if you just want to enjoy the city’s beauty and aren’t interested in knowing its history, or you can easily navigate locations, you can avoid visiting the George Town World Heritage Inc. or spend less time here to invest more time in other exciting places.

A fascinating thing to do in George Town, Penang, is to check out the street arts and click some good pictures. If you have a kid with you, I’m sure they’ll love these colourful murals. Children on a Bicycle is the most famous street art that remains crowded most of the time.

You’re lucky if you get to click a picture there cause there are long lines of tourists waiting to get a picture clicked. Starting from 2012, the street arts of George Town, Penang, are continuously expanding. While walking around the town, you might even come across some artists working on new street arts.

Khoo Kongsi Temple

The main and most-visited tourist attraction in George Town, Penang is the Khoo Kongsi Temple which is an ancient Chinese clan temple. It is said that a visit to Penang is incomplete without visiting this temple. Entrance to most temples in George Town is free, but there’s an entrance fee to get inside the Khoo Kongsi Temple. The impressive detail and decorations of the temple are great to see.

Right along the oceanfront in George Town, Penang, you will find various small Chinese settlements. These are called jetties. You’ll see homes, snack shops, and souvenir shops in these jetties while walking along the wooden walkway.

Snack shops in the jetties mostly sell sweet snacks and drinks. Some jetties are busier than the other ones. There’s not much to see in these places, but by taking a walk around these jetties, you’ll gather an idea about Chinese culture. Also, you can enjoy views of the boats and the Penang strait from these jetties.

Cheong Fatt Tze

Cheong Fatt Tze , in simple words the Blue Mansion, is a well-preserved architectural and historical guest house in George Town, Penang. It is a beautiful mansion where old-world grandeur meets modern comforts.

There are 18 spacious rooms in the mansion, open courtyards, a pool, an oriental garden, and many other significant amenities for the guests to enjoy. You can count yourself lucky if you get to stay at Cheong Fatt Tze . But if you aren’t lucky enough, you can still buy tickets for a tour of the mansion.

Through the tour, you’ll get to learn more about the history of Cheong Fatt Tze and enjoy a walk around the beautiful architectural heritage.

Fort Cornwallis

If you ask my opinion, I’d say that visiting Fort Cornwallis won’t be a great experience. I think the only thing that attracts visitors to this fort is its history. It is the oldest and largest fort in Malaysia, built-in 1786.

Fort Cornwallis is the oldest and the largest fort in Malaysia surrounded by walls and age-old cannons. You can walk around the fort but there’s not much fun in doing it, I guess. And the large and the most famous cannon of Fort Cornwallis can be seen from outside too.

So, if you are on a day trip to George Town, Penang, you can avoid visiting Fort Cornwallis. But if you are on a longer trip, you’ll have plenty of time so drop a visit to the fort.

Penang Peranakan Mansion

Penang Peranakan Mansion signifies the perfect combination of Chinese cultural and British colonialism in the straits of Malaysia. The mansion was owned by a Chinese family who adopted the British colonial lifestyle.

The mansion expresses the unique mix of Chinese styles and the history of British colonialism in its architecture and a rich legacy of antiques. Around 1,000 pieces of collectables and antiques that are around 100 years old are on display at the Penang Peranakan Mansion .

Little India

The most colourful part of George Town, Penang is Little India . As the name suggests, it’s a little part of India in Malaysia. The people living here belong to the Indian community, so the place has been named Little India.

There are shops and restaurants on both sides of the street. While walking through Little India you’ll hear Indian songs blaring inside the shops and smell various sorts of Indian spices.

St. George’s Church

St. George’s Church, a 19th-century church, is indeed a beautiful place to visit. It is a perfect blend of Georgian, English Palladian, and Neo-Classical architecture. The Doric columns enhance the beauty of the church. As declared by the Malaysian Federal Government, St. George’s Church is one of the 50 national treasures of Malaysia.

Komtar Tower

You can end your day trip with a visit to the Komtar Tower . It is the highest iconic entertainment tower in George Town, Penang. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the entire city from the topmost floor of the tower. You might be very well excited to know that there are around 18 theme tourist attractions in this one single tower. So, I think this is going to be the most exciting part of your day trip.

Keep a few hours in hand before coming to the tower so that you don’t miss out on any notable tourist attraction. If you visit George Town, Penang with your family, there’s no reason to miss a visit to the Komtar Tower. Your children will enjoy the most here. After you are done checking out all the attractions of the tower, stay for a while to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of George Town from the topmost level of the tower.

Some Other Tourist Attractions in George Town, Penang

George Town, Penang has so many other tourist attractions other than the ones that I mentioned above. If you are planning to visit the city for more than a day, then don’t forget to check out these tourist attractions too.

Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

A Hindu temple that holds a similar potential as a tourist attraction as the Batu Caves is the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple. The temple is located on a hilltop which makes it a famous place for offering great views of Penang. So, it is also known as Waterfall Hilltop Temple. Devotees and tourists have to climb 513 steps to reach there. To avoid congestion, separate stairs are provided for people descending from the temple.

The beautiful cream-coloured seven-storey gopuram of the temple can be seen from a distance. It is another reason why people visit this place.

This temple is said to be the largest temple of Lord Murugan outside India. At the foot of the stairs, there’s another temple named Arulmigu Sree Ganeshar Temple. It was constructed in the 1950s and has been renovated once or twice since then.

In every Thaipusam Festival which is the main festival of the temple, around 700,000 devotees are seen there. The interior of the temple has intricately carved pillars, chandeliers and a well-polished floor. Being the main Hindu Temple in Penang, Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple holds a significant value as a tourist attraction in George Town, Penang.

Climbing 513 steps up and down might consume half of your day. Moreover, you might spend a while checking out the architecture of the temple and the views of George Town from there. So, including this in your day-trip itinerary might not be a good idea. But if you choose to skip some of the attractions mentioned above, you can visit this temple instead.

Location: 17, Jalan Kebun Bunga, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Friday – Wednesday | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:30 pm – 9:00 pm | Open 24 hours on Thursday

Entrance fees: Free

Kek Lok Si Temple

Built-in the late 19th century, Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the largest and finest temple complexes in Southeast Asia. There are millions of magnificent images of Buddha and hundreds of beautiful and meaningful carvings, sculptures and murals in the interior and exterior of the temple halls, pagodas and archways.

Mahayana Buddhism and traditional Chinese rituals have perfectly blended into a harmonious whole that is noticeable in temple architecture and the daily activities of worshipers. There’s a turtle pond on the way to the Kek Lok Si Temple. You will be astonished by the frightening number of turtles in the pond. There are also many souvenir shops on the way to the temple.

There’s a 36.5-meter-high bronze statue of Kuan Yin , the Goddess of Mercy at the temple. It is maybe the most visited part of the temple. Then there is the Kek Lok Si Pagoda which was built as a mixture of Chinese, Thai and Burmese architecture. Once you reach the top of the Pagoda after climbing 7 levels through narrow stairs, you will be amazed by seeing the gorgeous views of Penang from there.

Location: Jalan Air Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Everyday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm

Pitt Street (Street of Harmony)

Named after William Pitt the Younger , the Prime Minister of Great Britain in 1786, the Pitt Street or the Street of Harmony has places of worship from the four religions- Islam, Taoism, Hinduism and Christianity. The harmonious coexistence of various religions and cultures in this part of the town is a reason why the street has been nicknamed as the Street of Harmony.

Gurney Plaza

Gurney Plaza is one of the major retail and entertainment centres in Penang. It is a nine-storey shopping mall with various international brands, retail shops, entertainment centres, and restaurants. Out of the numerous entertainment options that the mall offers, the most famous one is the Golden Screen Cinemas on the top floor of the mall, with 12 cineplexes. It is the largest multiplex in northern Malaysia.

The tenants of the 380 shop lots include some of the most famous international fashion brands like Armani, Marks & Spencer, Calvin Klein, Body Glove, bookstores like Popular and MPH, and accessory stores like Omega, Bell & Ross, Rado etc. Gurney Plaza is also home to some of the most popular fast-food chain restaurants like Starbucks, Nando’s, Kenny Rogers Roasters, etc.

Location: 170, Gurney Dr, Pulau Tikus, 10250 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Everyday | 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Kapitan Keling Mosque

Kapitan Keling Mosque is a 19th-century mosque that holds the pious spirit and magnificent architecture. It is the largest mosque in George Town, Penang. Indian Muslim traders built it in Islamic architecture. The mosque is surrounded by gardens that provide peace of mind while you are walking along the passageway.

The mosque was renovated many times after its development. The latest renovation was done in 2003. However, no compromises were made in the original aesthetics of the building during renovation. Non-Muslims aren’t allowed to enter the mosques during prayer times.

Location: 14, Jalan Buckingham, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Everyday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm

Penang Botanic Gardens

Penang Botanic Gardens , also known as Waterfall Gardens, is a beautiful late 19th-century garden. It is one of the oldest botanic gardens built by the British in a colonial settlement. It is known as the Waterfall Gardens because of the cascading waterfall nearby.

If you are a nature-lover visiting this garden might be your type of thing to do. You can also visit the beautiful three-tiered waterfall that used to be a famous waterfall in Malaysia. However, to go there you need permission from the Penang Water Authority (PBA) as the trail to the waterfall has been closed to the public for a long time now.

Location: Kompleks Pentadbiran,Bangunan Pavilion, Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Saturday and Sunday)

Wonder Food Museum

George Town, Penang is not entirely about history, culture and temples. Rather there are also some fun places to visit in George Town like the Wonder Food Museum . It is a fun and Imaginative Museum displaying replicas of Malaysian dishes, art & historical information.

The replicas are ultra-realistic and might bring water to your mouth. The museum showcases Malaysia’s unique food culture and also recommends the best places to enjoy Malaysian dishes. You will also get to know about the history of different Malaysian cuisines from this museum. The only downside is that you won’t be able to taste any of the food no matter how hungry you feel.

Location: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Everyday | 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Entrance fees: Adult RM 25 (non-Malaysians), RM 15 (MyKad)

Child/Senior RM 15 (non-Malaysians), RM 10 (MyKad)

Dark Mansion – 3D Glow in The Dark Museum

Dark Mansion is the first and the only glow-in-the-dark museum in Malaysia. It is a combination of creative modern artworks and science and technology. Lately, this museum has become one of the major tourist attractions in George Town, Penang.

The museum is not limited to normal 3D images as you might think. Rather it consists of artworks that are integrated with glow in the dark effect into the painting that makes them more unique. There are five paintings in this not-so-spacious museum.

There’s a Fairy Tale Land that lets you explore the magical world of fairies and pixies, a view of Smurf village, lush greenery, blooming flowers, and Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage. Then there’s Fire & Water: Tribute to Darwin which has a day and night transition that can only be found in this museum. After that in the Tropical Pandora: The Forbidden Land you can walk through a beautiful jungle similar to Avatar.

Then you can enjoy an endless journey at night in an infinite space with beautiful glowing creatures in the Infinity Room. Lastly, you can discover the beauty of the ocean being a mermaid at the New Atlantis: Underwater World without even going into the water.

If you have never seen a 3D glow-in-the-dark effect before, this is your chance to check it out. You will be mesmerized by how a small room can give you so many experiences at once. And lastly, you get to click some very beautiful and amazing Instagram-worthy pictures.

Location: 145, Lebuh Kimberley, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Everyday | 10:30 am – 6:30 pm

Entrance fees : International | Child (4 – 12 years old) / Senior (+60 years old) – RM 30

International | Adult (13 – 59 years old) – RM 40

Malaysian – with MyKad | Child (4 – 12 years old) / Senior (+60 years old) – RM 20

Malaysian – with MyKad | Adult (13 – 59 years old) – RM 30

Is there any George Town walking tour in Penang?

Yes, there are several walking tours available in George Town, Penang. Some popular ones include the Heritage Trail, Street Art Trail, and Food Trail. These tours allow you to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant street art, and delicious local cuisine on foot.

How To Reach George Town, Penang

If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur to George Town, Penang, you can take the train or Bus. But you won’t directly reach George Town. First, you have to take a train or bus from the KL Sentral Station to Butterworth.

From Butterworth, you’ve to get on a ferry boat. It’ll take you around 10-15 minutes to reach George Town alternatively you can drive directly to George Town.

Goerge Town , Penang is a great place to visit for a day trip. Checking out the diverse cultural mix of Chinese, Indian and British is worth it. So, when are you going to George Town, Penang?

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Must-Visit Attractions in George Town, Penang

George Town , the capital city of the Malaysian state of Penang , sits in the northeast of the island. Packed with head-turning architecture, it is a centre of commerce and creativity. From street art and night markets to temples, floating houses and historical mansions, here’s our pick of places to go while you’re here.

1. little india.

Market, Malaysian

Welcome to one of the liveliest, loveliest corners of George Town, which serves the city’s Indian-Muslim community and extends a warm welcome to all visitors with sounds of Bollywood movie music and the honk of scooter horns. From breakfast on, you can feast like a maharajah on pasembur (sweet salad), roti jala (“net” pancakes, so-called for their lace-like surface), murtabak (meat-stuffed pancake), biryani (rich rice dish) and all kinds of brightly coloured syrupy desserts. Food here is a cross-cultural event between Tamil Indian and Arabic cuisine – so loosen your belt and get ready to royally fill your face.

Botanical Garden

3. Pinang Peranakan Mansion

5. Kapitan Keling Mosque

The heat will be sweltering but you won’t want to miss this sight – so head out with a hat and bottle of chilled water and you’ll be rewarded with a new understanding of Malaysian muhibah (cultural harmony). At the corner of Lebuh Farquhar and Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, you’ll find St George’s, the oldest Anglican church in Malaysia. It all but rubs shoulders with Kuan Yin temple, the oldest Taoist temple in Penang. And next to it sits the Kapitan Keling mosque, built by Muslim Indian settlers in the 19th century. You can enter each religious site for free, though there is a specific dress code for entering the mosque. Contemplate the harmony of these three beautiful structures, which radiate tranquillity and spirituality.

6. Clan Jetties

Natural Feature

Part of the Penang Heritage Trail, the clan jetties are six water villages housing seven old Chinese clans, namely the Lim, Chew, Tan, Yeoh, Lee, Koay, and unnamed (mixed-surname) families. The “floating” houses, made of wood and aluminium, rise on stilts above the surface of the sea. The most tourist-friendly of the lot is the Chew Jetty, featuring a long walkway, souvenir shops and a small temple. You’re guaranteed some magnificent Instagram shots – just be aware of local sensibilities, as this is a residential community.

7. Kek Lok Si

Buddhist Temple

8. Hin Bus Depot

9. Ferringhi Night Bazaar

Bazaar, Market

10. Penang Tropical Fruit Farm

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Where to visit in georgetown — 11+ must-see & best places to visit in georgetown, penang.

Among the many famous tourist destinations in the beautiful country of Malaysia, we cannot help but mention Penang – a place known as the “Pearl of the Orient” with enchanting scenery with sunny beaches and wind during the day and sparkling at night. Located in the northeast of the island is George Town, the capital city of Penang state. In 2008, this town was recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage site. It is also considered a famous tourist center attracting a large number of tourists. So, where to visit in Georgetown, where to go in Georgetown Penang? Let’s check out our top rated 11+ must-go, see, top George Town places to visit and best places to visit in Georgetown as follows!

• Top restaurants in Georgetown, Penang — 15+ good & best restaurants in George Town
• Top cafes in Georgetown — 8+ best coffee shops & best cafes in Georgetown Penang
• Top things to do in Penang — 21+ must, unique & best things to do in Penang
• Must visit places in Penang — 19 top, must-go & best places to visit in Penang
• Where to visit in Penang? — 15+ must-see, best & must visit places in penang

So coming to George Town, what wonderful things will you have the opportunity to experience? The article below will suggest to you the 11+ most well-known tourist attractions when you traveling to Georgetown, Penang!

Pinang Peranakan Mansion (# best places to visit in georgetown)

Pinang Peranakan, also known as “Green-Hued Mansion”, is both a mansion and a museum that stores artifacts and displays the lifestyle of wealthy Chinese merchants in the 19th century. The mansion is decorated with light green walls with elaborately carved wooden gates, the mansion has a large reception hall filled with Asian-style lacquered chests, caskets, and Chinese paintings and antique European furniture. The dining room with English ceramic plates and bowls adds to the luxury of the mansion. It can be said that the “Green Mans”ion is a synthesis of the architectural and interior decoration cultures of the continents.

This mansion originally belonged to a Chinese immigrant who got rich from mining. The mansion was built in the late 19th century with a combination of materials from tiles imported from England, wrought iron from Scotland, the screens are decorated in Chinese style. The villa gives visitors an extremely luxurious space, bringing visitors back to the rich life of the 19th century.

Visiting the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, you will be amazed by the traditional atmosphere emanating from the space, from the ancient but no less luxurious objects and architecture. Coming to Green Mansion, you will not only be able to admire the wonderful castle-like beauty of the mansion, but you will also be satisfied with the staff and tour guides here. The staff here are very friendly and enthusiastic, they always try to give visitors perfect services and great service to bring visitors the most satisfaction. It can be said that Pinang Peranakan mansion is a place that we cannot miss when coming to the capital city of George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

Address: 29 Church, George Town, Penang, Malaysia. Hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM

Street Art in George Town (# best places to visit in georgetown penang)

If you are an art lover, especially young people who are passionate about street paintings, Street Art in George Town is an extremely interesting stop. Stretching along both sides of the wall on this street are extremely beautiful murals, wall paintings. These works of art are decorated with many colors, the paintings often refer to activities in human life or are pictures of animals, etc. Street Art is considered a symbol of street art in Malaysia.

When visiting this street, you should not miss its history. In 2008, after being recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site, the leadership of Penang state launched a competition for ideas to brand the town and help the town become a city with developed tourism, and in this contest the idea of drawing street paintings won the support of many people.

To realize that idea, a series of street paintings was born at Street Art George Town. In 2010, the idea began to be implemented and by this time the town had a total of 52 paintings. The paintings at Street Art not only tell historical stories about the town itself, but they also introduce the traditions, beliefs, customs, practices and especially the industries in this town.

Besides the paintings, there are accompanying descriptions to help visitors clearly understand the meaning that each work of art brings. It can be said that Street Art gives visitors an extremely interesting and unique space to explore art, especially this is an extremely suitable place to visit for young people who love creativity and exploration. new things.

Location: Lebuh Armeria, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

Ferringhi Night Market (# where to go in georgetown penang)

If you want to explore the activities that take place in the lives of Malaysian people, visit Ferringhi night market once, the bustle of this market will bring you both overwhelming and excitement. Ferringhi Night Market is a famous market in Malaysia, at night the market seems to take on a new color with countless colors of the stalls. Along both sides of the road are stalls selling many items from food, drinks, fabrics, to very beautiful souvenirs.

It can be said that Ferringhi night market is like a miniature version of George Town, the market is open from 7pm until midnight. The more later at night, the bustling the market gets, especially on weekends. Coming to Ferringhi night market, you can freely explore and enjoy local dishes here at extremely affordable prices. This is also a good place for those who want to find meaningful souvenirs for relatives and friends. Don’t miss the Ferringhi night market when coming to George Town because you won’t know how wonderful things you can experience when you come here.

Address: Jalan Batu Bukit 2, Tanjung Tokong George town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.

Little India (# where to visit in georgetown)

The miniature Indian street area, also known as Little India, located in the center of Penang is also an equally famous tourist place when you arrive at the “Pearl of the Orient” – Penang, especially this is A suitable place for those who love to explore new cultures. The outstanding feature of this location is the present of ancient Indian heritage.

Coming to the miniature Indian street area in Penang, there is one thing we cannot miss, which is enjoying typical Indian dishes. There are many food stalls serving local dishes with traditional Indian flavors. Famous Indian dishes include basembur (sweet salad), roti jala (netted-bread), murtabak (meat-stuffed pancake)… or desserts with strong syrup flavors. In this Little India, there are also jewelry stores, fruit and vegetable stores, and grocery stores that are often frequented by locals and Indian tourists.

It can be said that the beauty of miniature Indian streets is a testament to the cultural reception from many directions of George Town in particular and Penang city in general. And perhaps it is never wrong to say that every small corner of George Town is imbued with cultural colors and brings visitors unforgettable experiences throughout their journey.

• Address: 45-63 Lebuh, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

Penang Butterfly Farm (# george town places to visit)

If you are a lover of nature exploration, love to explore and learn about insects, Penang Butterfly farm is a place that you must not miss when traveling to George Town, Penang. The butterfly farm in this city began operating in 1986, and to this day it serves as a reserve, protecting different species of butterflies living in the Penang area.

Penang Butterfly farm is the first artificial butterfly house in Southeast Asia. The garden is quite large, with an area of about 8 hectares and divided into many different areas. In the garden, there are more than 4,000 individual butterflies belonging to more than 120 different butterfly groups, including the appearance and existence of many rare and endangered butterflies such as yellow-winged butterflies, Brooke Rajah butterflies… .In addition to the main creatures being butterflies, tourists also have the opportunity to discover many other types of insects such as beetles, lizards, frogs… and even snails.

Besides, this is also a tropical forest of 250 different types of fruit trees, the most famous of which is durian. Therefore, coming to Penang Butterfly Garden and not enjoying durian is truly a regret. In addition, you also have the opportunity to enjoy extremely fresh and pure fruit drinks.

Penang Butterfly Farm is considered one of the important contributions to raising people’s awareness about protecting insect habitats or tropical forests. If you have the opportunity to come to Penang, please visit the butterfly garden, this is definitely a tourist destination that will not disappoint you.

• Address: No. 830 Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
• Hours: 9 AM–5 PM/Wednesday: Closed

Jalan Kapitan Keling

Jalan Kapitan Keling is a mosque built in the 19th century, this is a famous Islamic historical center, considered part of the world heritage of George Town. Located at the junction of Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling and Jalan Buckingham, Jalan Kapitan Keling is considered the largest mosque in Penang. Jalan Kapitan Keling Church is decorated with the main paint color being white, giving visitors a bright and spacious space. The milky white shape and grey and bronze domes, orange roofs are the most prominent highlights of the mosque.

This mosque is named after the head of the Colin tribe in South India. Jalan Kapitan Keling is considered a place to preserve the unique cultural features of Islamic architecture, this is the highlight that contributes to creating a city of Penang – a convergence of many unique cultures in the world. With all the above reasons, what are you waiting for, book a ticket right away to visit Georgetown town of Penang city.

• Address: 14 Jalan Buckingham, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
• Hours: 5 AM–10 PM

Clan Jetties of Penang

Clan Jetties of Penang is a tourist attraction not to be missed when traveling here. Coming here, you will witness the river life of Malaysian people. The life here partly proves the comment: Penang is a famous port city in Malaysia. Coming to the Clan Jetties of Penang in Georgetown, you will have the opportunity to visit stalls along both sides of the road with countless types of goods for you to choose from. This place is full of food stalls selling local dishes, souvenirs, so if you who loves to explore cuisine, the jetties is a great meeting spot that you cannot miss.

Coming here, you not only have the opportunity to enjoy local specialties but you also have the opportunity to participate in street activities held on festivals or on weekends such as street activities. Regarding street art, this places promises to bring you a bustling and extremely vibrant space. And an interesting suggestion for you when visiting the jetties is to bring a camera with you to capture the most wonderful moments, and come here at sunset, the jetties are beautiful as a painting in the afternoon, visitors who come here once always want to come back again.

• Address: Weld Pengkalan, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and it is also an important pilgrimage center for Buddhists from many parts of the world. Kek Lok Si is considered an inspirational initiative of the head monk of Beow Lean, built in 1890. This temple shows the influence of Chinese culture with a combination of Mahayana Buddhism, Primitive Buddhism and traditional Chinese rituals, all these cultural features blend harmoniously, it is clearly shown through the temple architecture, works used to decorate the temple and daily activities of believers.

Kek Lok Si is a temple with 10,000 Buddha statues, the temple grounds are divided into three main areas: the first area that visitors see is the market at the entrance, this is an extremely vibrant market. Coming here you will smell laska and noodles, this market has many stalls selling handicrafts and souvenirs. The second area is the central area with a giant temple and statues of the four heavenly kings at the main hall. This is the area that attracts the most tourists.

The temple’s grounds extend all the way to the mountainside. For a small fee, visitors can take the elevator to the top of the mountain or walk if they feel healthy enough. Reaching the top, visitors have the opportunity to admire the 30-meter majestic high statue of Guan Yin, with a large pond with many carp and see the beauty of the city from above.

People often call Kek Lok Si the Temple of Supreme Bliss. This is the most important Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, so Kok Lok Si is where festivals are held throughout the year. If you want to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere at Kek Lok Si, come here during the Lunar New Year, during the first 33 days of the year, the temple is filled with a sea of color and light with thousands of statue lanterns that represents the donations of believers. Besides there are parades and music and dance troupes, this temple is considered a festival center in Malaysia, so Kek Lok Si is a place to visit chosen by many tourists on their vacation to the island.

• Address: Ais Itam, Penang, Malaysia.
• Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM

Tropical fruit farm

Coming to Malaysia, you will have the opportunity to visit many farms, but the opportunity to visit a giant fruit farm growing over 250 types of fruit trees out of a total of 370 types of fruit trees in Malaysia can only come to the tropical fruit farm in Penang. The tropical fruit farm in Penang was built to preserve green heritage, this is a farm that plays an important role in the agricultural development of Malaysia.

The farm is about 25 acres and 244 meters high above sea level. The farm is home to many famous fruits in Malaysia and many countries around the world such as Central and South America, Central Africa, India, and the Middle East… Nowadays, the fruit tree collection of this tropical garden is on the rise.

The tropical fruit farm in Penang is a place that attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists. Every day, this area welcomes about 350 visitors, regardless of age or race. as an attractive tourist destination that anyone coming to Penang cannot miss. And to have the opportunity to enjoy the fresh and nutritious taste of fruits, come to this tropical fruit farm once in your life.

• Address: Jalan Teluk Bahang, Penang, Malaysia.
• Hours: 9 AM–5 PM

The Rainbow Skywalk and Observatory Deck

Rainbow Skywalk is Georgetown’s elevated observatory located on the 68th floor on the rooftop of Komtar tower. This is a tourist destination that gives visitors the thrill of walking in the air 816 Feet above sea level. The Observatory Deck is also a place with a glass walkway, allowing you to see the world below.

Standing at a height of hundreds of meters, you will have the opportunity to see the colorful city at night. This is a place that brings you new and unforgettable experiences, especially for young people who love adventure and discovery. On this rooftop there is also a bar that provides you with great cocktails and snacks. Standing on the Rainbow Skywalk observation deck will make you feel like you are standing on the roof of the world.

And a small note is that this tourist destination is only suitable for those who love thrills and are healthy enough. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture beautiful photos of the town from above. Coming to Rainbow Skywalk, you will have the opportunity to relieve all the pressures of work and life and recharge yourself for your next journey. For young people, come to Rainbow Skywalk once in your life to enjoy the interesting things this place has to offer.

• Address: Jaln Penang, George, Penang, Malaysia.
• Hours: 10 AM–10 PM

Acheen Street Mosque

Acheen Street Mosque is the oldest mosque in George, built in 1808 by a wealthy Arab merchant from Acheh. This church is known as a historical monument and is one of the pride of Penang people. The mosque was built in Chinese and Arabic architectural style with an impressive octagonal tower. This is a famous pilgrimage site for Muslims.

Visiting Acheen Street Mosque, you will have the opportunity to admire the extremely beautiful and perfect architecture. The church will give you the feeling of being lost in an extremely sacred cultural atmosphere of Muslim believers in the early years of the 19th century. Visiting the mosque, you will experience unique and diverse cultural spaces, from the architecture to the Islamic relics displayed inside the mosque.

For those who love to explore historical sites, Acheen Street Mosque is an interesting place that cannot be missed, and you can also rest assured that the tour guides here will help you. You will be helped and guided by volunteers. The volunteers here are very enthusiastic.

According to comments from tourists who have been to Acheen Street Mosque, at sunset, the church landscape is like a ravishingly beautiful watercolor painting, mixed with that space is the sound of prayers that gives visitors a feeling of serenity and peace. Coming to Acheen Street Mosque, you will feel like you are lost in the land of peace and happiness.

• Address: Jalan Lebuh Acheh, George, Penang, Malaysia.

After reading this article, don’t worry about where we will go, what we will visit, what we will experience and see when we come to Georgetown, Penang. Prepare yourself with the necessary items and book a flight to visit the beautiful country of Malaysia. And don’t forget to visit Georgetown, Penang, which will bring you extremely interesting experiences that you will never forget. With the information we have compiled, we hope it will be of great help to your trip. We hope you have an interesting journey and discover many useful things.

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
• The Habitat Penang Hill Ticket
• Klook Pass Penang
• The TOP Penang Ticket
• ESCAPE Penang Ticket
• Explore Georgetown Half Day City Tour
• Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm Ticket
• Dark Mansion Museum Ticket
• Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing
• Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion Tour in Penang
• Georgetown Penang Private Car Charter
• Boutique Aquarium Ticket at The TOP Penang
• Heritage Tour and Trishaw Ride in Penang
• 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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MATTA Fair Penang 2024 kicks off with 300 booths

G EORGE TOWN: The two-day Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair Penang 2024 has opened its doors at Setia SPICE Arena here.

Featuring some 300 booths promoting international and domestic travel packages, the event includes various offerings from the travel industry including airlines, financial institutions, travel agents, hoteliers, associations, theme parks, wellness spas and other small businesses.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who launched the event, said the influx of tourists is integral to the state's economy, providing employment opportunities, business ventures, and bolstering its overall economic growth.

"MATTA has played a pivotal role in promoting our country, particularly Penang, as a premier tourism destination.

"I am pleased to announce the maiden voyage of two prestigious cruise liners, Costa Deliziosa and Serenade of the Seas, each capable of accommodating up to 2,500 passengers.

"This significant milestone underscores the strategic importance of Penang's Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal and the allure of Penang as a tourism hub for Malaysia," he said.

Chow added that Penang's accessibility continues to expand, with direct flights from 15 international cities, including Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Medan, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Acheh, Ho Chi Minh City, Doha, Haikou, and Shanghai.

"Penang boasts eight domestic flight routes, with 17 airlines operating direct flights, including MAS, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Fly Dubai, Starlux, Xiamen Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Juneyao Airlines, among others.

"As a result, the airport has recently recorded a 5% increase in passengers movement from 313,000 to 328,000 from February to March this year," he added.

MATTA Penang chapter chairman Carolyn Leong said a sales revenue of RM40mil is expected at this year's fair compared to the RM33mil recorded last year.

"MATTA is committed to aligning with the aspirations of state tourism, and we look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts in promoting tourism and cultural enrichment.

"Each year, we strive to enhance our international participation by inviting more foreign embassies to showcase their cultural richness and new destinations at the fair. This serves as a dynamic platform

for cultural exchange and exploration of exciting travel opportunities.

"In introducing our esteemed travel exhibitors, we aim to enrich the fair experience by offering additional attractions and fostering closer connections between nations," she said.

The highlight of the travel fair will be the lucky draw prizes which will see visitors winning air tickets from flydubai, Xiamen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Scoot, China Airlines, Starlux Airlines, and Air Arabia to destinations like Dubai, Xiamen, Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Visitors who buy any domestic packages by securing a RM300 deposit per person will stand a chance to take part in the lucky draw to win an air ticket to a domestic destination while anyone who buys an international holiday package with a deposit of RM1,000 will be eligible to win an air ticket to an international destination.

Besides air tickets, visitors who take part in the lucky draws also stand a chance to win hotel stays, staycations, tour vouchers and admission tickets

The fair, held today and tomorrow (April 27 and 28) will be open from 10am to 9pm.