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How to spend 2 days in Penang Kek Lok Si Temple

2 Days in Penang Itinerary: Top Things to Do and Other Tips (+free map)

2 Days in Penang Itinerary: Top Things to Do and Other Tips (+free map)

Table of contents

[UPDATED IN OCTOBER 2024]

Penang is an island in Malaysia and one of the most visited cities in West Malaysia, after Kuala Lumpur or Malacca, for example.

Penang’s rich history makes it one of Malaysia’s most unique destinations. Known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Penang has a fascinating colonial past and a vibrant blend of cultures.

The British established Penang as a trading port in the late 18th century. It quickly became a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences. This multicultural heritage is most evident in George Town. George Town is Penang’s capital, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Exploring Penang’s history is captivating, offering a glimpse into its past that continues to shape the island today.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si Temple

Despite being an island (connected to the mainland of Malaysia by more than one bridge!), there is plenty to visit in Penang. From some of the best street art in Malaysia to the best local food markets in Malaysia.

There are plenty of things to do in Penang and this 2-day itinerary in Penang is proof of that. Besides tips on the best places to visit in Penang, you will also find other tips about Penang on this post, such as:

  • Accommodations in Penang and the best areas to stay in Penang
  • Best time to visit Penang
  • How many days you need in Penang
  • How to get to Penang

So, keep reading to prepare for your trip to Penang and know what to do in Penang in 2 days! I promise that Penang will surprise you! 😉.

How many days in Penang?

Given the size of Penang island and all the things to do in Penang, I would suggest at least 2 full days in Penang.

Some of Penang’s interesting places are far from each other, which requires some extra time to get around. Thus, it is important to make sure that your Penang itinerary takes this into account.

However, if you have some extra time, I suggest extending your Penang itinerary to 3 days. This way, you will have the opportunity to include other attractions in Penang in your itinerary, such as Penang National Park, for example.

What’s the best time of year to visit Penang?

As with most cities in the Western part of mainland Malaysia, Penang’s weather tends to be humid and hot.

However, you should be aware of Penang’s rainy season, which occurs especially during September to November. While it is still possible to visit Penang at this time of year, I would suggest avoiding these months.

On the other hand, the months with the least rainfall are January to March and June and July, making these the best months to visit Penang. During the dry season, temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C.

Finally, even though none of these months is the rainiest, it is always important to prepare for rain, given the tropical climate in Penang. For example, I took this waterproof jacket from Decathlon and it was quite useful. I visited Penang in early June and experienced some rain (just a few showers here and there).

Another important thing to consider when planning a Penang trip is the major festivals and events in the city:

  • Chinese New Year (January or February): One of the biggest festivals in Penang. The island comes alive with vibrant parades, temple ceremonies, and festive decorations. While this is a great time to experience local culture, it’s also a busy period, so it’s wise to book accommodations early.
  • Thaipusam (January or February): Another major festival! It involves elaborate rituals and processions, with devotees walking to the Waterfall Hill Temple. It’s a unique cultural event worth witnessing if you’re visiting Penang during this time.
  • George Town Festival (August): This month-long celebration of arts and culture takes place in August. It showcases showcasing local and international performances, exhibitions, and workshops. It’s a fantastic time for art lovers to visit, but be prepared for occasional rains due to the wet season.

What documents do you need to visit Penang?

As a citizen with a Portuguese passport, I am entitled to a free visa valid for 90 days to enter Malaysia. My passport just had to be valid for, at least, 6 months. I also filled out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card but no one asked me for it.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Penang Hill
Habitat at Penang Hill

However, different rules apply to other nationalities. For instance, Malaysia allows visa-free entry for many nationalities. This includes travellers from most European countries, the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. These visitors can stay in Malaysia, including Penang, for up to 90 days without a visa.

Citizens from ASEAN countries (such as Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia) can enjoy visa-free stays of up to 30 or 90 days.

When arriving in Malaysia, the process is quite simple and you might be asked a few questions. They can ask you about your origin, where you’re going next, how long you plan to stay and where you’ll be staying.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: I strongly suggest you check out the latest information here. This is also where you can check the rules that apply to different passport holders.

How to get to Penang?

Penang is well-connected to Malaysia’s main cities and other South East Asian locations. In addition, it is possible to reach Penang both by land and by plane, as there is an airport in Penang.

Getting to Penang by plane

Penang has air connections with some of the major cities in Malaysia (e.g. Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Langkawi). But, Penang airport also has direct flights to some neighbouring countries:

  • Indonesia
  • Thailand
  • Singapore
  • Vietnam
  • Taiwan
  • China

This is a great option in many cases because of the faster time to get to Penang. Airlines like AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Scoot, Jetstar and Singapore Airlines offer direct routes to/from Penang. Even if you’re travelling on a low budget, AirAsia usually has some low fares.

Penang International Airport (PEN) is located in Bayan Lepas, about 30 minutes from George Town.

If you’re already in Malaysia, Penang is just a short domestic flight away from Kuala Lumpur. Low-cost carriers like AirAsia, Firefly, and Malindo Air operate frequent flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Penang International Airport. Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Penang typically take around 1 hour.

How to get to Penang by bus

It is also possible to get to Penang by land (this is exactly what I did). For example, a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang costs around 6€, making it a budget-friendly option.

Buses leave frequently from Kuala Lumpur’s Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS). They take about 4-5 hours to reach Penang’s Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal, which is around 20 minutes from George Town.

Penang also has several direct connections to other major cities in Malaysia. You can also find direct bus services to Penang from cities like Ipoh, Melaka, and even Singapore. Companies like AeroLine, Nice Express, and Transnasional offer comfortable journeys with reclining seats and air conditioning.

I suggest buying your ticket on the 12goAsia website, where you can check the various buses available. You can also buy tickets at bus terminals. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends and public holidays.

💡 EXTRA TIP: It is normal for many long-distance buses to stop only at Butterworth, which is not on Penang Island. To get to George Town (the main part of Penang Island), there is a ferry that connects Butterworth to George Town (the journey takes about 20 minutes). If you don’t want to go through this “extra work”, I suggest you look for buses that stop in George Town.

What currency is used in Malaysia and how to pay?

The official currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). As of October 2024, 1 MYR = 0,21€. Even though many places accept cards, you should also try to carry some cash with you since some are “cash only”. This is especially true if you intend to eat out in local markets.

To make purchases with a currency other than the one I usually use (Euro), I always use the Revolut card, which has many advantages. One of the biggest advantages of the Revolut card while travelling is the fact it does not charge extra fees for using a different currency.

If you do not yet know the advantages of having a Revolut Card, you can find out more here.

Where to withdraw money without paying fees?

Some of the banks in Malaysia charge a fee for withdrawing money with foreign cards (even if you’re using a Revolut card!). However, I found some that actually didn’t charge me to withdraw money with my Revolut card. These were the banks where I got to withdraw money without paying fees:

  • HSBC
  • Maybank
  • CIMB Bank

How to have internet?

It’s quite handy to always have internet while travelling in Malaysia. It’s useful when you need to call a Grab or use Google Maps in walking mode, for example.

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Wondering how to stay connected in Penang? I recommend purchasing an eSIM from Celcom for affordable and reliable mobile data. You can easily top-up at any 7-Eleven. You can also choose a roaming mobile data plan, which works seamlessly across many Southeast Asian countries.

For example, this e-SIM Roaming Mobile Data Plan can be purchased even before you arrive in Malaysia and the options are quite cheap.

You can choose the option that suits you best. Just keep in mind the duration of your trip and where you plan to go since most of the plans include a mobile data plan that also works in other countries.

What is the best way to get around Penang?

Penang offers various transportation options that make exploring the island convenient and affordable.

Walking

For Penang’s points of interest that are located in George Town, the best way to visit them is definitely on foot. The distances to cover are short.

Walking allows you to discover hidden street art, charming cafes, and heritage buildings at your own pace.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Komtar
View from Komtar Tower

But, if you want to visit other Penang’s iconic places that are further away (for example, Kek Lok Si Temple), you might want to consider other options.

Rapid Penang Buses

The Rapid Penang bus service is an affordable way to travel across the island. It has routes covering popular tourist spots like George Town, Batu Ferringhi, and the airport.

Bus routes such as 101 (from George Town to Batu Ferringhi) and 401 (from the airport to George Town) are particularly useful for tourists.

Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver, and fares typically range from 2 MYR to 5 MYR (0.4€ – 1€) depending on the distance. It’s a good idea to carry small change for payment.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Tanjung Bungah Mosque
Tanjung Bungah Mosque

Ride-sharing services (Grab)

Grab is a popular ride-sharing app in Malaysia, offering a convenient and safe way to get around Penang. It’s especially handy if you want to avoid the hassle of public transport or if you’re travelling in a group.

Grab is available throughout the island, with fares starting at around 5 MYR (1€) for short distances. The app also provides fare estimates before you book, so you can plan your budget.

It’s a great option for door-to-door service, and you can book a ride directly from your phone, making it ideal for spontaneous trips.

Scooter/Bike

For those looking for more freedom and flexibility, renting a scooter or bicycle can be a fun way to explore Penang. Scooters are especially useful for visiting attractions that are spread out, like Penang Hill or Kek Lok Si Temple.

Rental shops can be found around George Town, Batu Ferringhi, and other tourist areas. Some guesthouses and hostels may also offer rentals.

Scooter rentals typically cost between 30 to 50 MYR (6.4€ – 10.6€) per day. You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP) to rent a scooter, so make sure to bring yours if you plan on riding.

Always wear a helmet and be cautious when driving, as traffic can be busy in George Town. Stick to main roads and avoid driving during rush hours if you’re new to navigating Penang’s streets.

Trishaws

For a unique and traditional way to explore the heritage streets of George Town, try taking a trishaw ride. Trishaws are pedal-powered rickshaws that offer a leisurely way to see the city. They aren’t as fun as the ones in Malacca, but they are still quite a ride!

A trishaw ride is more about the experience than practicality, with rates ranging from 25 to 40 MYR (5.3€ – 8.5€) for a half-hour ride. It’s a fun option for a short trip or a photo opportunity.

Accommodation in Penang

Where to stay in Penang

When choosing accommodation in Penang, you need to consider the best area to stay in Penang. Since most of the places to visit in Penang are located in George Town (or relatively close!), this is exactly where I recommend staying in Penang.

For example, I met a couple on the trip who complained about being in the Western part of the island. There the roads were much worse and it took them ages to get out of that part of Penang.

Best hotels in Penang for every budget

Budget-friendly stays in Penang

For budget-conscious travellers, Georgetown has plenty of affordable hostels and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Rope Walk Guest House: This guesthouse offers private rooms in a charming heritage building. It’s located near many of George Town’s attractions, making it a great base for exploring.
  • Chulia Heritage Hotel: This charming hotel is set in a beautiful heritage building in George Town. It offers private rooms with a modern touch. The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to explore the city’s heritage sites and street art.
  • VENO Hotel: Lean, spacious rooms and modern amenities. Conveniently located near heritage sites, markets, and eateries.

Mid-range stays in Penang

Penang also has a variety of mid-range hotels that balance style and affordability. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Muntri Grove: Located in a quiet corner of Georgetown. This boutique hotel offers spacious rooms with heritage charm, an outdoor pool, and easy access to cultural sites.
  • Hotel NEO+ Penang: Just a short walk from the UNESCO World Heritage Zone. This hotel provides modern amenities, a rooftop pool, and stunning city views.
  • Areca Hotel Penang: A beautifully restored heritage property with stylish rooms, a charming courtyard, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for families and couples.

Luxury stays in Penang

Penang’s luxury resorts offer stunning beachfront locations and top-notch amenities. Here are some of the best high-end stays, especially around the Batu Ferringhi area:

  • Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa: Nestled among lush gardens along Batu Ferringhi Beach. This 5-star resort features elegant rooms, many pools, and a relaxing spa. It’s ideal for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
  • Hard Rock Hotel Penang: This resort is perfect for those looking for a lively atmosphere. It has a beachfront location and family-friendly amenities, including a pool with water slides.
  • PARKROYAL Penang Resort: spacious rooms with ocean views, a serene spa, and direct access to Batu Ferringhi’s sandy shores. It’s a great option for travellers who want to combine relaxation with easy access to local attractions.

My recommendation of where to stay in Penang

I really enjoyed the hotel I stayed at – Courtyard by Mariott Penang.

This hotel is one of the best 4-star hotels in Penang. The rooms are extremely spacious and the staff service is exceptional.

Also, the hotel has a wide breakfast offer at Penang Kitchen, where there is also à la carte lunch service. And, for those who are more around the hotel during the day, Courtyard by Mariott Penang also has an afternoon snack service, which is just DELICIOUS 🤤!

For dinner, the hotel has the concept Gin Library. They serve more elegant dishes and an extensive menu of cocktails, especially gin-based. And the best part of this restaurant? The views over Penang… especially beautiful at sunset.

And to finish off, there’s the swimming pool on the top floor of the hotel to help us cool off on the hottest days in Penang. The hotel provided towels that you can use in the pool. There are also some sun loungers and some sofas to help us relax after a day well spent in George Town.

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Penang 2-Day Itinerary – Map

Before I start telling you about my itinerary for Penang, I’ll share a map with the places to visit in Penang.

Activities & tours in Penang

2 days in Penang Itinerary – Day 1

The first day of this Penang 2-day itinerary will be mostly focused on exploring the historical part of George Town! Most of the places worth visiting in George Town are close to each other, so you can easily walk this route.

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There are a few exceptions, however, where the easiest way to get around is by Grab. In fact, this is exactly what I did! Whenever the walking distance was too far, I used a Grab as the journeys were quite cheap.

» Khoo Kongsi Temple

We start our Penang itinerary at what is probably one of the most beautiful Chinese temples in Penang. It may not be that big, but the details are incredible.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi Temple

» Clan Jetties

The Clan Jetties are one of the must-visit places in Penang. It is a floating village where Chinese clans live. These clans were created to integrate the Chinese who came to live in Malaysia in the 19th century.

There are still a few clans and each has its own Chinese temple. Nowadays, we find several souvenir shops as we walk through the tight streets of the Clan Jetties. So, if you would like to visit this place and find few tourists, go early.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Clan Jetties
Street art at the Clan Jetties

Street art is a constant in George Town and even in the Clan Jetties, you’ll already find some very cute pieces!

» Street art

If you’re a regular reader of the blog, you know how much I love street art! This is always one of my favourite parts of cities that have this kind of art 😍. And, of course, Penang couldn’t be an exception.

Street art pieces in Penang are scattered all over George Town. But, there is one area where we can find more murals and also the most well-known ones.

The strong presence of street art in George Town began in 2012 at the initiative of the Penang municipality. Many of the pieces aim to tell a bit of George Town’s rich history. And these have become so well known over the years that there is now a queue at some of them to take photos.

Here are the exact locations of some of my favourite murals in George Town:

» Little India

Like other cities in Malaysia, there is also a Little India in Penang! Take the opportunity to get lost in the colourful streets or in one of the many restaurants selling Indian food.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Little India

» Kuan Yin Teng Temple

Another unmissable place in Penang is the Kuan Yin Teng Chinese temple. It is the oldest temple of its kind in Penang, and it was built in the early 18th century.

You can go inside the temple for free and admire the rituals of the locals who pass through.

» Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

It’s time to go to one of the most beautiful houses in Penang! Also known as the Blue Mansion, this mansion is a historic house in Penang. It was built by the merchant who currently gives it its name (Cheong Fatt Tze) in the 19th century.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

It is currently a boutique hotel, but it is still possible to visit some areas of the building. There are 2 guided tours per day and both tours have a capacity of up to 35 people. However, it is also possible to visit the mansion with only an audio guide.

I recommend buying tickets online in advance, as they sometimes sell out.

» Town Hall and Clock Tower

Relatively close to the Blue Mansion, you can find the Town Hall and the Clock Tower. This part of the city made me feel like I wasn’t in Penang anymore, not even in Malaysia. It’s interesting, but it was clearly one of my least favourite parts of Penang.

The buildings have very distinctive architecture. Many of them date back to the time when this area was a colony of the United Kingdom. For example, the Clock Tower was built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

» Komtar Tower

We continue to do one of the most fun activities in Penang – the Komtar Tower. Komtar Tower is probably the best viewpoint in Penang and clearly one of my favourite places in Penang  🥰!

Komtar Tower has loads of indoor activities (many of them for children). I’d like to mention two – the Rainbow Skywalk and the Observatory Deck: two platforms with views over the city of Penang.

Both have a part with a glass floor, which is one of the funniest parts of this visit to the Komtar Tower. The vertiginous feeling is amazing! The skywalk is in an enclosed space and the observatory deck is on a small open-air platform.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The ticket to visit both platforms costs 78 MYR (~17€) and is well worth it. You can check the most up-to-date price list as well as opening hours here.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Komtar

For those who want an even more memorable experience, you can have a meal at the restaurant on the top floor of the tower, where the Skywalk is also located.

» Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

Continue this 2-day itinerary in Penang in the temple with the most difficult name to pronounce 😉! The Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple is a complex of several Hindu temples and you have to climb more than 500 steps to get there.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Temple Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani

As in Kuala Lumpur, there are also many small monkeys here. They are harmless, but keep an eye on your belongings, as monkeys can easily “rob” your backpack.

» Chulia Street

After an intense day of sightseeing, surely all you can think about is getting some rest. So, I suggest ending your first day in Penang at one of the most popular places to try local food in Penang. This is also the place to be in Penang at night.

Chulia Street is one of the liveliest streets in Penang, with several stalls selling local food. The best way to enjoy food markets like this one is to take a stroll and pick the stall(s) that appeal to you the most 😋.

This is a great way to try local food at very affordable prices. But, if you’d like to get to know the local gastronomy better, there’s nothing better than a food tour with someone who knows about it. That’s why I’m sharing with you some of the best food tours in Penang:

2 days in Penang Itinerary – Day 2

The second day of this Penang itinerary will have considerably fewer sights to visit. Firstly, they are all a bit far away from each other. And, on the other hand, you’ll spend longer at each one of these attractions.

» Kek Lok Si Temple

The Kek Lok Si temple was the one that surprised me the most during my whole trip to Malaysia! And believe me, I saw a lot of Buddhist temples😁. So this is really one of those places that should be on your what to do in Penang list.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Kek Lok Si Temple

The temple is so big (this is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia) that I recommend a whole morning to visit it. Between travelling from the centre of George Town and the actual visit to the temple, you should ideally allow about 3 hours to visit Kek Lok Si temple.

💡 EXTRA TIP: The journey between the centre of George Town and Kek Lok Si Temple takes about 15 minutes (7 to 10 km). The easiest way to get there is by Grab, as the journey is quite cheap.

While most parts of the temple are free to visit, there are some exceptions. For example, the entire initial part of the temple is free to visit. You can, of course, buy incense at the temples or make small contributions, but these are voluntary.

There are also some small shops scattered around the complex where you can buy some souvenirs.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Kek Lok Si Temple

In the whole complex, there are only two paid areas. One of them is the funicular ride up to the highest part of the temple, where the Kuan Yin statue is located. However, the prices are so low that I see no reason not to visit these two parts (one costs 2 MYR, 0.4€ and the other 6 MYR, 1.2€).

The entrances to some of these paid areas are a bit difficult to find, although there are some signs in the temple complex.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Kek Lok Si Temple
Views from Kek Lok Si Temple

And, as if the beauty of this temple wasn’t enough, you’ll also find there one of the best views over Penang. It will be hard not to be jaw-dropped.

» Penang Hill

Relatively close to the Kek Lok Si temple, you can also visit Penang Hill. As the name implies, Penang Hill is composed of a set of hills, being one of the highest areas in Penang.

The simplest way to get to the top of Penang Hill is by using its funicular railway. This is one of the longest funicular journeys in Asia. However, the journey only takes about 5 minutes.

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The funicular runs from 6.30 am to 10 pm (the ticket office closes at 8 pm). Return tickets for non-Malaysians cost 30 MYR, ~6€ (‘normal lane’) or 80 MYR, ~16€ (‘fast lane’). There are also one-way tickets, which are much cheaper. You can check the most up-to-date information here.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Penang Hill
View from Penang Hill

The difference between the ‘normal lane’ and ‘fast lane’ has to do with the queue where you have to wait to get on the funicular. I realize the price difference is ridiculous, but it may well be worth it to go for the fast lane.

For example, on the day I visited, the queue to return from the top was so long (more than 3 hours of waiting) that I ended up having to return by jeep + Grab ☹️.

💡 EXTRA TIP: It is not possible to reach the top of Penang Hill by car (including Grab and taxis). So, apart from organized tours, the best way to get to Penang Hill is actually by funicular. It is also possible to hike a trail to get there, but some people complained that it was quite difficult.

Once at the top of Penang Hill, there are endless options to occupy your time. It’s possible to spend a whole day exploring Penang Hill and even then, you won’t have time to visit everything. I suggest you check out the main attractions of Penang Hill here.

However, for a first visit to Penang Hill, I suggest you choose only one or two of the attractions. For example, I chose to visit Habitat as it is one of the places I found most interesting in Penang Hill.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Penang Hill

Habitat is a short trail (1.6 km one way) in the middle of nature that quickly makes you forget about the busy life in the centre of Penang. At the end of the trail, there is a free shuttle bus that takes you back to the start.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Entry to Habitat costs 60 MYR (~12€) and opening hours are from 9 am to 7 pm (last entry at 5 pm). All the most up-to-date information here.

Both the ticket for the funicular and the Habitat can be purchased on-site.

» Tanjung Bungah Mosque

Next in this 2-day itinerary, stop at the Tanjung Bungah mosque. This mosque is known as the Floating Mosque. The mosque is built over the sea and when there is a high tide, it looks like the mosque is floating.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Tanjung Bungah Mosque
Tanjung Bungah Mosque

» Batu Ferringhi Beach

And to end the day perfectly, I recommend watching the sunset at Batu Ferringhi Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Penang. You can do water sports activities at this beach, for example. It is also served by some cafés and restaurants.

How to spend 2 days in Penang Batu Ferringhi Beach

Nearby, you can also enjoy the Batu Ferringhi night market. Honestly, I didn’t think there was much interesting to see. However, I ended up having dinner at a small food market (Kafe Ferringhi Station) and I highly recommend it.

More things to do in Penang

In case you are the lucky one who can spend more than 2 days in Penang, I’ll provide you with some additional suggestions of where to go in Penang.

Firstly, I’ll tell you about Penang National Park – a great idea for a day away from George Town. This park has a few trails and some of the best beaches in Penang, such as Monkey Beach. It may be one of the smallest national parks ever, but it’s packed with surprises.

Secondly, if you like museums, you can also take advantage of some of the museums in Penang:

Must-Try Dishes in Penang

Penang is a food lover’s paradise, known for its rich mix of flavours and local specialities. If you’re visiting, don’t miss out on these must-try dishes. From delicious noodles to refreshing desserts, here are some of the best foods and where to find them.

Char Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow is a popular Penang dish made of stir-fried flat rice noodles, prawns, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and eggs. The secret is the smoky flavour from the hot wok. For a great taste, visit Tiger Char Kway Teow on Carnarvon Street or Siam Road Charcoal Char Kway Teow. Both places are known for their delicious noodles, and you might see lines of people waiting!

Penang Assam Laksa

Penang Assam Laksa is a spicy and sour fish noodle soup. It’s made with tamarind, mackerel, and fresh herbs like mint. For a top-notch bowl, try Pasar Air Itam Laksa near Kek Lok Si Temple or Joo Hooi Cafe on Penang Road. These spots are famous for their tasty Laksa, loved by both locals and tourists.

I must admit it’s not my cup of tea, but it’s so popular in the country, that you should try it anyway.

Cendol and Dimsum

On a hot day, cool down with a bowl of cendol —shaved ice with coconut milk, green jelly, and palm sugar syrup. The best-known place is Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul. If you prefer a hearty breakfast, head to Fu Er Dai in George Town for dim sum. They serve steamed dumplings and buns, perfect for starting your morning.

Top Food Tours in Penang

For a fun food experience, join a guided food tour in Penang. These tours take you to markets, hidden stalls, and cafes to try different dishes.

Powered by GetYourGuide

These tours are perfect for anyone who loves food and wants to try Penang’s best eats!

Frequently Asked Questions about travelling to Penang

Is Penang worth visiting?

Yes, Penang is definitely worth visiting. The island offers a mix of rich history, diverse culture, and delicious food.

George Town’s heritage sites are full of charm, while street art adds a vibrant touch to the city. Penang Hill and the island’s beaches provide stunning views and relaxation.

The local cuisine, from hawker stalls to high-end restaurants, is a highlight for any foodie. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or simply relaxing, Penang has something for everyone.

Is Penang safe for tourists?

Yes, Penang is generally safe for tourists. As with any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.

Is Penang a good destination for families?

Yes, Penang offers a variety of family-friendly activities. This includes Penang Butterfly Farm, Penang Hill, and interactive museums (e.g. Penang Interactive Museum).

What is there to do in Penang at night?

Penang’s nightlife offers plenty of options for all kinds of travellers. Popular activities include visiting the night markets, enjoying street food, exploring Chulia Street’s bars, and taking a night tour of George Town.

How do I get from Penang Airport to George Town?

To get from Penang Airport (PEN) to George Town, you have a few options:

  • Bus: The Rapid Penang bus 401 or 401E goes to George Town. It’s budget-friendly (around MYR 2-3), but the journey can take up to an hour.
  • Grab/Ride-Sharing: Grab is the easiest way, with rides taking around 30 minutes and costing between 20-40 MYR (4.2€ – 8.5€), depending on traffic.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport and offer a similar travel time, though it’s best to agree on the fare in advance.

What are some of the best day trips from Penang?

Penang is a great starting point for exploring nearby destinations. There are plenty of options just a short trip away. Here are some of the top day trips from Penang to consider:

  • Kuala Sepetang: About 1.5 hours from Penang, this fishing village is known for its mangrove forest, firefly cruises, and seafood.
  • Ipoh: A 2-hour drive from Penang, Ipoh offers stunning limestone caves, heritage buildings, and delicious local food.
  • Taiping: Visit Taiping Lake Gardens about 1.5 hours away.
  • Penang National Park: Explore nature trails and beaches for a nature-filled day.

Final thoughts on a trip to Penang

Penang is a place where history, culture, and amazing food come together. Explore the colourful streets of Georgetown, enjoy the views from Penang Hill, or taste delicious local dishes! There’s always something new to discover.

It’s a great spot for a quick visit or a longer stay.

Have you visited Penang or plan to? Share your thoughts or any hidden gems in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experiences!

Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊

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about me

A Ticket To Take Off About Me

I am Mariana from Porto, Portugal. I am truly passionate about traveling and all things travel related. And that’s exactly what led me to create this page: so I can inspire others to travel and help plan all those trips with my tips and itineraries.

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