By Nom - 1 March 2024
Destination Guide: Best Things To Do In Penang
Welcome to the captivating island of Penang, where rich cultural heritage meets vibrant modernity. As you stroll through the bustling streets and savour the eclectic blend of flavours wafting from street food stalls, you'll quickly realize that Penang is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Penang Island is a very tourist vibrant place in Malaysia and there’s a good reason for this. Penang Island is rich in history, cultures, beautiful buildings and amazing food. Even though there are so many things to do on Penang Island, here are the best things to do and places to visit on Penang Island.
We'll guide you through the best things to do in Penang, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this enchanting destination.
How To Get To Penang
To get to Penang, there are several transportation options available. If you are flying from another country or city, you can book a flight to Penang International Airport. The airport is well-connected and serves both domestic and international flights.
Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or Grab car to your destination in Penang.
If you are already in Malaysia, you can also choose to travel by bus or train. There are regular bus services from major cities in Malaysia to Penang, and the journey usually takes a few hours. Alternatively, you can take a train to Butterworth, which is located on the mainland. From there, you can easily cross over to Penang Island by ferry or by using the Penang Bridge.
Once on the island of Penang, you can easily make your way around the island via Grab (taxi app) or public taxi. If you’d rather have more flexibility in your journeys, there are plenty of places to hire a motorbike.
Or you may choose to hire a car so you can cover a greater distance and have more freedom and flexibility on your trip.
Best Time To Visit Penang
The best time to visit Penang is during the months of December to March when the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and low humidity. This is typically the peak tourist season, so expect a higher influx of visitors during this time. The island offers a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy, such as exploring the vibrant streets of George Town, visiting historical sites like Fort Cornwallis, and indulging in the famous street food scene. Penang is also known for its cultural festivals, including Chinese New Year and Thaipusam, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and offer a unique experience for visitors. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing on the beautiful beaches, Penang has something to offer all year round.
Best Things To Do In Penang
Where To Stay In Penang
Selecting the perfect accommodation in Penang is crucial for a memorable travel experience. The island offers a diverse range of options, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Here are some recommendations for where to stay in Penang, each offering a unique charm.
George Town - UNESCO World Heritage Site Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Penang by choosing accommodation in George Town. You'll be within walking distance of the iconic street art, historical sites, and an array of dining options.
Recommended Areas: Armenian Street, Love Lane, and Chulia Street.
If you want to be in the heart of George Town's cultural district, Armenian Street Heritage Hotel provides a unique and historic stay. The hotel is surrounded by art galleries, museums, and vibrant street life.
Immerse yourself in Penang's Peranakan heritage by staying at Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion. This boutique hotel offers a luxurious and culturally rich experience in the heart of George Town.
Seven Terraces is a boutique hotel located in the heart of George Town, offering a blend of heritage and modern comfort. The beautifully restored terraces provide an intimate and unique stay experience.
For a luxurious beachfront experience, Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa combines five-star comfort with beautiful surroundings. Enjoy the resort's amenities, lush gardens, and direct access to the beach.
Batu Ferringhi Beach If you're a beach lover, Batu Ferringhi is the ideal choice. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea with a wide range of water sports activities. The area also boasts a lively night market and an array of beachfront resorts.
A family friendly option is the highly rated Bay View Beach Resort located directly on the beach. Families and active guests love this resort offering parasailing, jet-skiing, a well-equipped, air-conditioned gym overlooking the garden, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts. There's dedicated play areas, professional babysitting services and 2 out of 4 swimming pools specially designed with children in mind.
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Penang Hills For a tranquil escape and cooler temperatures, consider staying near Penang Hill. Enjoy breathtaking views of the island, explore nature trails, and experience the charm of this elevated retreat.
Recommended Areas: Air Itam or Tanjung Bungah.
For a budget friendly cosy stay with everything your need check out Penang Hill Lodge .
1. George Town Street Art Trail
Begin your Penang exploration with a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the captivating street art murals that adorn the walls, telling tales of the city's history and culture. The interactive art installations make for the perfect Instagram-worthy moments.
Dive into Penang's culinary haven by embarking on a hawker food safari. Indulge your taste buds in the diverse array of local delicacies, from the iconic Penang Laksa and Char Kway Teow to the delectable Nasi Kandar.
Gurney Drive is a foodie's paradise, offering a feast of flavours that will leave you craving for more.
2.Penang Hawker Food Safari
3. Penang Hill Excursion
If you love nature and hiking you should definitely visit Penang Hill, one of the most popular destinations in Penang. Penang Hill, or Bukit Bendera in Malay, is the highest point on the island, offering amazing views of the city and the surrounding rainforest. It is also home to a variety of attractions and facilities that cater to different interests and preferences.
How to Get to Penang Hill Penang Hill is located about 6 km from Georgetown, the capital city of Penang Island. There are different options to get to Penang Hill from Georgetown or other parts of Penang Island, depending on your budget, time, and convenience.
By Funicular Train The easiest and fastest way to get to Penang Hill is by taking the funicular train that leaves from the Lower Station at Air Itam. The funicular train is a modern and comfortable ride that takes you up to the Upper Station at the top of Penang Hill in about 10 minutes. The train operates daily from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm, with a frequency of every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off-peak hours. You can buy your tickets online or at the ticket counter at the Lower Station. You can also buy a fast lane ticket for an additional RM10 per person if you want to skip the queue.
By Bus You can take a public bus from Georgetown or other parts of Penang Island. The bus number is 204, which runs from Komtar Bus Terminal in Georgetown to Air Itam Market near the Lower Station of the funicular train. The bus operates daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, with a frequency of every 20 minutes during peak hours and every 40 minutes during off-peak hours. You can pay by cash or by using a Touch 'n Go card. You can also use a Rapid Penang Tourist Passport that gives you unlimited rides on all Rapid Penang buses for 7 days.
Taxi / Grab If you prefer more comfort and convenience, you can also take a taxi or Grab car from Georgetown or other parts of Penang Island to Penang Hill. The approximate cost for a one-way trip is RM20-RM30 per car, depending on the distance and traffic. The time for a one-way trip is about 15-20 minutes.
You can hail a taxi on the street or book one through a phone call or an app. You can also use Grab, which is a popular ride-hailing app in Malaysia that offers fixed fares and easy payment options. You can download Grab from Google Play or App Store.
Car / Motor You can also drive to Penang Hill using Google Maps or Waze very easily. Depending on the traffic the journey should take 15-20 minutes. Parking is available near the Lower Station of the funicular train. RM2 per hour for cars and RM1 per hour for motorbikes. You can pay by cash or by using a Touch 'n Go card.
Hiking Penang Hill is a great way to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Penang Hill. There are several hiking trails available for different levels of difficulty and duration, ranging from the easy and direct Heritage Trail that follows the funicular train route to the challenging and scenic Moon Gate Trail that passes through various landmarks and rest stops.
You will also discover some of the best attractions and facilities on Penang Hill that you can enjoy after your hike. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a fun adventure, or a cultural experience, Penang Hill Hike has something for everyone.
Step back in time at the Penang Peranakan Mansion, a well-preserved museum showcasing the opulence of the Peranakan heritage. Marvel at the intricate architecture, antique furniture, and vibrant tiles that transport you to a bygone era.
4. Penang Peranakan Mansion
For the thrill-seekers, a visit to the Escape Theme Park is a must. Unleash your inner adventurer on the thrilling rides and obstacle courses, set against the lush backdrop of Teluk Bahang's natural beauty.
Escape holds two Guiness World Records - The World's Longest Zip Coaster 1,135m and The World's Longest Tube Water Slide 1,111m.
5. Escape Penang Waterpark
Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the Penang National Park, home to diverse ecosystems and the renowned Monkey Beach. Hike through lush trails, spot wildlife, and unwind on the pristine sandy shores of Monkey Beach for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
6. Penang National Park and Monkey Beach
Monkey Beach is located on the northwestern coast of Penang and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This stunning beach is a hidden gem surrounded by lush rainforest and crystal-clear waters. As the name suggests, Monkey Beach is home to a playful troop of monkeys that are always ready to entertain visitors. Besides encountering these mischievous creatures, you can indulge in a range of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the pristine sandy shore.
The beach is also a starting point for hiking trails that lead to Monkey Beach's scenic viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of the Andaman Sea. Whether you are seeking relaxation or outdoor adventure, Monkey Beach promises an unforgettable experience for all.
Muka Head Lighthouse is a fascinating destination for any travel enthusiast.
This historic lighthouse stands tall on the northernmost tip of the island. Built in 1883, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andaman Sea, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
The lighthouse is surrounded by lush greenery and pristine beaches, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere. You can take a short hike through the dense rainforest to reach this iconic landmark and marvel at its unique architecture.
The Muka Head Lighthouse is not only a testament to Malaysia's rich maritime history but also a perfect spot to witness stunning sunsets and capture Instagram-worthy shots.
So, don't miss the chance to visit this enchanting lighthouse and create unforgettable memories.
Entopia is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and travel enthusiasts alike. This enchanting attraction is a stunning butterfly and insect sanctuary that promises an immersive and educational experience.
As you step into Entopia, you are instantly transported into a mesmerizing world of vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Explore the lush tropical gardens and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of over 15,000 free-flying butterflies fluttering around you.
Get up close and personal with a vast collection of insects and learn about their fascinating life cycles.
With its commitment to conservation and sustainability, Entopia serves as a remarkable platform to raise awareness about the importance of preserving our delicate ecosystem.
7. Entopia
Whether you are a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique experience, Entopia in Penang is a must-visit destination that will leave you awe-inspired.
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