More about Penang

Penang is a state in Malaysia located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia by the Malacca Strait, comprising Penang Island and Seberang Perai on the mainland. The capital city, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, historic buildings, and multicultural heritage influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and British colonial cultures. Established as a British trading post in 1786, Penang has evolved into a vibrant, multicultural society. The island is renowned for its diverse and delicious street food, often considered one of the best food destinations in Asia, featuring signature dishes like Char Kway Teow, Assam Laksa, and Nasi Kandar. Penang also hosts numerous cultural festivals and boasts a vibrant street art scene, including the famous murals by artist Ernest Zacharevic.

Key attractions in Penang include George Town's historic streets, the expansive Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Hill with its panoramic views and funicular railway, and Batu Ferringhi, a popular beach destination. The Penang National Park offers pristine beaches, rainforests, and hiking trails, while heritage buildings like the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and the Clan Jetties glimpse the local culture. The Penang Peranakan Mansion showcases the opulent lifestyle of the Peranakans. The state is well-connected via Penang International Airport and has robust road and ferry links. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses for accommodation and explore shopping options at Gurney Plaza, Queensbay Mall, and local markets. With its tropical rainforest climate, Penang offers a year-round warm destination with rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Malaysia.

Best Things to Do in Penang

Escape Theme Park

Escape Theme Park is located in Teluk Bahang, one of the popular adventure and amusement destinations on Penang Island. The park offers many attractions that cater to all ages, including thrilling zip lines, obstacle courses, water slides, and climbing walls. It features one of the longest water slides in the world, providing an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers. The park is divided into two main sections: Adventureplay, focusing on outdoor adventure activities, and Waterplay, featuring various water-based attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as the Aerobat (aerial runway), Gecko Tower (climbing challenge), and the exhilarating Tubby Racer (downhill tubing). The park's design emphasizes eco-friendly practices and aims to encourage outdoor play and physical activity.

The best time to visit Escape Theme Park is during the dry season, from November to March when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. To get there, visitors can take a taxi or drive from George Town, which is approximately a 40-minute journey. Public buses, such as Rapid Penang Bus 101 or 102, also provide convenient access to the park. The scenic route along the northern coast of Penang Island offers beautiful views, making the journey part of the experience. Escape Theme Park provides a fun-filled day for families, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in a lush, tropical setting.

The TOP Penang

The TOP Penang is located in the heart of George Town within Komtar Tower; a premier entertainment and tourist destination offering a variety of attractions and activities. This iconic complex features an observation deck on the 68th floor, providing stunning panoramic views of Penang Island and the surrounding sea. Key attractions include the Rainbow Skywalk, a glass walkway that offers a thrilling experience with breathtaking views, and the Window of the Top, another observation area with unobstructed vistas. The TOP Penang also houses attractions such as the Tech Dome Penang, an interactive science and technology center, the Jurassic Research Center, where visitors can explore life-sized dinosaur exhibits, and the Penang State Gallery, showcasing the state's rich history and culture.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities suitable for all ages, from the exciting attractions at the 7D Discovery Motion Theater to the fun-filled Aquarium, which features a diverse array of marine life. The best time to visit The TOP Penang is during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds, particularly in the late afternoon to enjoy both daytime and sunset views. Getting there is convenient as Komtar Tower is centrally located and well-served by public transportation, including Rapid Penang buses. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services provide easy access from various parts of George Town. With its mix of educational, thrilling, and scenic attractions, The TOP Penang offers a memorable experience for families, tourists, and locals alike.

Wonderfood Museum

The Wonderfood Museum, situated in the heart of George Town on Lebuh Pantai (Beach Street), is a unique attraction dedicated to showcasing Penang’s diverse culinary heritage. The museum features life-sized replicas of local dishes, offering visitors an immersive experience of the island's rich food culture. With exhibits like the Giant Bowl of Cendol and oversized versions of Nasi Kandar and Char Kway Teow, the museum provides a fun and educational insight into the culinary traditions that make Penang famous. The displays are meticulously crafted, highlighting the ingredients and preparation methods of various local delicacies, making it an ideal stop for food enthusiasts and curious tourists alike.

You can enjoy interactive exhibits and photo opportunities with the gigantic food replicas, making it a popular spot for taking unique and entertaining pictures. The museum also includes sections that explore the cultural significance of food in Penang and the historical influences that have shaped its diverse cuisine. The best time to visit the Wonderfood Museum is during the weekdays, preferably in the morning or early afternoon, to avoid the peak tourist hours. To get there, visitors can take a short walk from other popular George Town attractions or use public transportation, such as Rapid Penang buses, which have routes passing nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available, providing convenient access to this must-see museum that celebrates the culinary delights of Penang.

Penang 3D Trick Art Museum

The Penang 3D Trick Art Museum offers a whimsical and interactive experience through its collection of optical illusion art. The Museum is located in the vibrant core of George Town at Lebuh Penang (Penang Street). This museum features over 40 hand-painted artworks that create three-dimensional illusions when viewed from certain angles, making it a popular spot for families, tourists, and photography enthusiasts. The exhibits are designed to allow visitors to become part of the artwork, posing creatively to capture fun and unique photos. Highlights include scenes where you can appear to be scaling skyscrapers, escaping from wild animals, or navigating through imaginative fantasy worlds.

The Penang 3D Trick Art Museum offers a hands-on experience as they engage with the art pieces, making it an entertaining and immersive activity for all ages. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially in the morning, to avoid the larger crowds that typically arrive later in the day and on weekends. The museum is easily accessible and located within walking distance of other major attractions in George Town. Public transportation, including Rapid Penang buses, services in the area, and taxis or ride-sharing services provide convenient options for reaching the museum. Whether you're looking to capture playful memories or explore creative artworks, the Penang 3D Trick Art Museum offers a delightful and interactive cultural experience.

Tech Dome Penang

Tech Dome Penang, located within the iconic Komtar building in George Town, is a cutting-edge science and technology center designed to inspire curiosity and learning among visitors of all ages. This interactive museum features over 120 exhibits and hands-on activities spread across several thematic zones, including robotics, engineering, physics, and life sciences. Key attractions include the Robotics Lab, where visitors can program and interact with robots, the Earthquake and Typhoon simulators that provide immersive experiences of natural phenomena, and the Human Gyro, a thrilling ride that demonstrates the principles of physics and motion.

The Science and Technology Center offers a variety of engaging activities, from exploring the intricacies of human anatomy to understanding the mechanics of renewable energy. The center also hosts regular workshops and science shows, making it an ideal destination for school groups, families, and anyone with a passion for science and technology. The best time to visit is during weekdays, particularly in the morning, to avoid the crowds that gather later in the day and on weekends. Tech Dome Penang is easily accessible via public transportation, with Rapid Penang buses servicing the Komtar area, and taxis or ride-sharing services also providing convenient access. This state-of-the-art facility offers a dynamic and educational experience, making it a must-visit attraction for those interested in the wonders of science and technology.

Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm

Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm, located in Teluk Bahang on the northwest tip of Penang Island, is a nature and wildlife attraction that combines a butterfly sanctuary with interactive educational exhibits. This award-winning facility is home to thousands of free-flying butterflies from over 120 species, set within a beautifully landscaped garden that mimics their natural habitat. Visitors can stroll through the vivarium, which also houses a variety of other insects, reptiles, and small animals. The Natureland section is a lush, living garden filled with waterfalls, ponds, and lush greenery, offering a serene environment to observe butterflies and other creatures up close.

In addition to the butterfly garden, Entopia features the Cocoon, an indoor discovery center with interactive exhibits, educational workshops, and activities designed to teach visitors about the life cycles, habitats, and ecological importance of butterflies and insects. Highlights include the Metamorphosis stage, where visitors can witness the transformation of caterpillars into butterflies, and the Underground Mysteries, which delve into the world of insects and arachnids. The best time to visit Entopia is in the morning when the butterflies are most active, and the crowds are lighter. To get there, visitors can take a taxi or drive from George Town, which is about a 45-minute journey, or use public transportation, such as Rapid Penang bus 101, which stops near the entrance. Entopia offers a captivating and educational experience for nature lovers and families, making it a must-see attraction in Penang.

The Habitat Penang Hill

The Habitat Penang Hill is an eco-tourism destination located atop Penang Hill, offering visitors an experience in the island’s pristine rainforest. Situated just a short distance from the top station of the Penang Hill funicular railway, The Habitat boasts a stunning 1.6-kilometer nature trail that winds through the jungle, providing access to various viewpoints, gardens, and educational displays. One of the main attractions is the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk, the highest public viewing platform on Penang Island, which offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including the Andaman Sea and the distant peaks of the Langkawi archipelago.

You can enjoy a range of activities and attractions at The Habitat, such as guided nature tours that explore the rich biodiversity of the rainforest, night walks to experience the nocturnal wildlife, and ziplining through the treetops for an adrenaline rush. Other highlights include the Langur Way Canopy Walk, a series of suspension bridges offering a unique perspective of the forest, and themed gardens showcasing local flora. The best time to visit The Habitat is early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the wildlife is more active. To get there, visitors can take the funicular railway from the base station at Air Itam, which is easily accessible by taxi or Rapid Penang bus 204. Other highlights include the Langur Way Canopy Walk, a series of suspension bridges offering a unique perspective of the forest, and themed gardens showcasing local flora.

The best time to visit The Habitat is early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the wildlife is more active. To get there, visitors can take the funicular railway from the base station at Air Itam, which is easily accessible by taxi or Rapid Penang bus 204. The Habitat Penang Hill provides a serene and educational escape into nature, making it a must-visit destination for eco-enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Penang Transportations

Public Buses

Operated by Rapid Penang, these buses provide extensive coverage across Penang Island and Seberang Perai on the mainland. They are affordable and connect major tourist attractions, residential areas, and transport hubs like Penang International Airport.

Taxi Services

Taxis are readily available throughout Penang Island and mainland Penang. They offer convenience for travelers who prefer door-to-door transport and are regulated by the local authorities to ensure fare transparency.

Funicular Railway

The Penang Hill funicular railway is a popular mode of transport that takes visitors from the base station at Air Itam to the summit of Penang Hill. It offers panoramic views and access to attractions like The Habitat and Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk.

Motorcycle Taxis

Known locally as "motorcycle taxis" or "motorsikal sapu," these provide quick and affordable point-to-point transport, especially in urban areas where traffic congestion might affect larger vehicles. They are often used for short distances and can navigate through narrow streets.

Renting a Car or Motorbike

Many visitors opt to rent cars or motorbikes to explore Penang at their own pace. Rental services are available at Penang International Airport and various locations across the island, offering flexibility for exploring both urban areas and more remote attractions like Penang National Park.

Recommended Penang Food

Char Kway Teow at Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow

Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow is renowned for its smoky flavor imparted by cooking over a charcoal fire. This iconic Penang dish features flat rice noodles stir-fried with prawns, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and egg, seasoned with soy sauce and chili paste. It's a must-try for food enthusiasts visiting Penang, offering a delicious blend of savory-sweet flavors and the unique aroma from the traditional cooking method.

Address: 82, Jalan Siam, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operational Hours: Daily from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Assam Laksa at Pasar Air Itam Laksa

Pasar Air Itam Laksa is famous for its tangy and spicy noodle soup made with tamarind (assam), lemongrass, and spices. This Penang specialty includes rice noodles topped with mackerel fish flakes, cucumber, onions, mint leaves, and a dollop of shrimp paste. It's a flavorful culinary experience that showcases Penang's rich culinary heritage and is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Address: Jalan Pasar, Paya Terubong, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operational Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM

Nasi Kandar at Line Clear Nasi Kandar

Line Clear Nasi Kandar is an iconic spot known for its flavorful curries and the traditional Malaysian dining experience of "beratur" (queuing up). This 24-hour eatery offers steamed rice served with a variety of curries, fried chicken, beef rendang, fish, and vegetables, allowing patrons to customize their meals according to their preferences. It's a cultural institution in Penang, attracting diners seeking hearty and satisfying Malaysian dishes.

Address: 177, Jalan Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operational Hours: Open 24 hours

Hokkien Mee at 888 Hokkien Mee

888 Hokkien Mee is famed for its aromatic prawn-based broth simmered with yellow noodles and rice vermicelli. This popular Penang dish is served with prawns, slices of pork, hard-boiled egg, and bean sprouts, and garnished with fried shallots, creating a hearty and flavorful noodle soup. It's a favorite among locals and visitors seeking to indulge in Penang's renowned street food.

Address: 67-A, Jalan Macalister, George Town, 11400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operational Hours: Daily from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM

Cendol at Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul

Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul is celebrated for its refreshing dessert made of shaved ice topped with green rice flour jelly (cendol), coconut milk, palm sugar syrup (gula Melaka), and red beans. This iconic Penang treat offers a perfect balance of creamy coconut milk and sweet gula Melaka, providing a delightful respite from the tropical heat. It's a must-visit for anyone exploring Penang's culinary delights and seeking a taste of local flavors.

Address: 27 & 29 Lebuh Keng Kwee, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operational Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM

Shopping Places in Penang

Gurney Plaza

Gurney Plaza is one of Penang's premier shopping malls, located along Gurney Drive in George Town. It features a wide range of international and local brands, including fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and dining options. The mall also hosts events and exhibitions, making it a vibrant shopping and entertainment destination for both locals and tourists.

Address: Persiaran Gurney, 10250 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Komtar

Komtar, short for Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, is an iconic landmark and shopping complex in the heart of George Town. It houses a variety of retail outlets, food courts, and entertainment facilities spread across several floors. Komtar also includes attractions like The TOP Penang and Tech Dome Penang, offering a mix of shopping and cultural experiences.

Address: Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, Jalan Penang, 10000 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Queensbay Mall

Queensbay Mall is the largest shopping mall in Penang, located in Bayan Lepas. It has over 400 retail outlets ranging from fashion and beauty to electronics and dining. The mall also features an ice-skating rink, a cinema complex, and a variety of international and local eateries, catering to shoppers of all ages.

Address: 100, Persiaran Bayan Indah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia

Chowrasta Market

Chowrasta Market, situated in the heart of George Town, is a bustling traditional market known for its fresh produce, local snacks, and handicrafts. Visitors can explore stalls selling fruits, vegetables, spices, and souvenirs, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings of Penang's local culture.

Address: Jalan Chowrasta, 10100 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Penang Times Square

Penang Times Square is a modern shopping complex located in George Town, featuring a mix of retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment options. It offers a more intimate shopping experience compared to larger malls, with a focus on fashion, electronics, and dining in a convenient urban setting.

Address: 10150, 72, Jalan Dato Keramat, George Town, 10150 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Best Time to Visit Penang

The best time to visit Penang typically falls between December and February, as well as from June to August. During these periods, Penang enjoys a more moderate climate with lower humidity and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying the beaches. December to February is considered the peak tourist season due to cooler temperatures and clear skies, perfect for sightseeing and beach activities.

June to August offers a lively atmosphere with various cultural and religious festivals, such as the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival and the George Town Festival. These events showcase Penang's rich cultural heritage through music, dance, arts, and culinary delights, attracting visitors from around the world.

It’s important to note that Penang's weather can be unpredictable during the monsoon season from September to October, when heavy rainfall and occasional storms may occur. Travelers should plan accordingly and check weather forecasts before visiting during these months. Overall, December to February and June to August are recommended for a pleasant and memorable visit to Penang, balancing favorable weather conditions with cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.