George Town, Penang, Malaysia is a top travel destination – and it’s easy to understand why. Penang Island boasts incredible street art, delectable cuisine, lush nature, amazing beaches and a well-preserved history.
For our trip, we created an absolutely perfect Penang Itinerary and are sharing it now with our fellow travelers!
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About Our 5 Day Penang Itinerary
Our Penang 5 Day Itinerary covers the best destinations. We highlight the prime things to do in George Town – as well as top Penang Island tourist spots.
For each day, we detail what to see in Penang and include pertinent details about each one. Additionally, we provide a useful Penang Attraction Map so you can route your way to each sight.
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 George Town. The city is the country’s second-largest (after Kuala Lumpur) and the Penang tourist spot.
Many of the top things to do are in the historical core of George Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, there are more attractions in Penang just outside the city center.
History of George Town
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 that it became independent.
Because of the different people that settled in George Town, the landscape is incredibly varied. Temples are found just steps from mosques. Traditional Peranakan row houses are just around the corner from grand colonial structures.
Penang Art Scene
Whether taking a 1 day trip or creating a 5 Day Itinerary for Penang, seeing street art should be part of your plan.
After earning UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2008, the city sought ways to present its history. “Marking George Town Street Art” was the winning idea in 2010.
Using steel rods, a team of artists created 52 sculptures that humorously told the story of the town. That project then paved the way for other creators.
Penang Arts District
In 2012, Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic painted a series of murals called “Mirrors George Town” that depict scenes of everyday life.
His works often incorporate tangible items and invites viewers to be interactive with the art. Since then, the city has been flooded with artists leaving their mark on buildings all over town.
Because seeking out street art is one of the top things to do in George Town Penang, we have included the most popular wall murals in our trip plan.
That said, there are numerous displays throughout town that are lesser known, but still equally intriguing in our opinion.
Our Best Penang Itinerary for 1 to 5 Days
This day-by-day itinerary outlines what we saw in Penang, Malaysia. In addition to prime sights, we also include a few unusual things to do in Penang. Alright, now let’s get to it!
DAY 1: Must-Visit Penang
Day 1 of your Penang Itinerary begins near Swetternham Pier. From here you’ll set off on a walking tour that includes 30 places to visit in George Town.
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!
George Town Self Guided Walking Tour
No need to worry about where to go in George Town, our outlined Penang city tour includes the best places to visit.!
The route could take as little as 3 hours, however, we suggest slowing your pace, savoring these places and spending an entire day sightseeing in George Town.
#1 Queen Victoria Memorial Clock (Jubilee Clock Tower)
MAP. Standing at Light Street and Beach Street, the Victoria Memorial Clock was dedicated to the British Queen in 1897 to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee.
#2 Fort Cornwallis
MAP. Canons can be seen on the walls of Fort Cornwallis, which was 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
MAP. Two historic places to visit 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
MAP. Designated a National Treasure of Malaysia in 2007, St. George’s Anglican Church was consecrated in 1819 and is one of the top Colonial sites in Penang George Town.
The Neo-Classical structure features Doric columns, a gable roof and an octagonal steeple.
#5 Church of the Assumption
MAP. Designated a World Heritage Place of Worship, the Church of the Assumption dates to 1860 and is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Malaysia.
#6 Cheong Fatt Tze Blue Mansion
MAP. Designed as a traditional Chinese house, the Blue Mansion was built in the 19th century by business man Cheong Fatt Tze for his family.
Today, the landmark building is both a museum and a boutique hotel. Tours are offered (for a small fee) a few times a day.
#7 Trishaw Man
MAP. 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 peddler was painted by Ernest Zacharevic in 2012 and is one of his largest pieces in the city.
#8 Thean Hou Temple
MAP. Renovated in 1995, the Thean Hou Temple features intricate stone carvings that depict Chinese stories and Hainanese culture.
#9 Kung Fu Girl
MAP. Also known as the Little Girl in Blue, this mural by Zacharevic incorporates the building’s windows into the work of art.
#10 The Indian Boatman Mural
MAP. Painted by Russian artist Julia Volchkova, the Indian Boatman mural is located on Stewart Lane, which is also called Boat Alley. That’s because the street once housed the Hainanese Mariners building.
#11 Goddess of Mercy Temple
MAP. Built in 1728, the Goddess of Mercy is the oldest Taoist temple in the city. It is a Penang must-see; both tourists and devotees gather with offerings and to light joss sticks.
#12 Pinang Peranakan Mansion
MAP. The opulent Peranakan Mansion Museum is one of the fascinating historical places in Penang.
You can learn about the lifestyle of wealthy Peranakans (who are locally-born Chinese people, also called Babas and Nyonyas).
#13 Little India
MAP. Covering three streets, vibrant Little India is known for textile shops, Bollywood music and Indian cuisine.
#14 Sri Mahamariamman Temple
MAP. Built in 1833, this is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang. The entrance tower (gopuram) is 23-feet-tall and features incredibly detailed statues of gods and goddesses.
#15 Kapitan Keling Mosque
MAP. Built in 1801 and renovated in 1930, the Kapitan Keling Mosque sits in the Tamil Muslim neighborhood. The mosque was the first Islamic structure built in Penang.
#16 Yap Temple
MAP. The small, but classic, Yap is a clan temple of Lum Yeong Tong Yap Kongsi House and one of the Penang interesting places to see. Inside, the family ancestral tablets are on display.
#17 Sun Yat Sen Museum
MAP. 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 he gave a rousing speech, which led to the China Revolution of 1911 and the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty.
#18 Penang Islamic Museum
MAP. Dedicated to the role of Islam in Malaysia, this museum is housed in the 1860 Syed Alatas Mansion. It is one of the places to visit on Penang Island to learn more about the diversity of the region.
#19 Lebuh Aceh Mosque
MAP. Built in 1808 in the heart of the Muslim settlement, the Lebuh Aceh Mosque is most-known for its unusual Egyptian-style minaret.
#20 Boy on a Chair Mural
MAP. Another painting by Ernest Zacharevic, this one depicts a little boy standing on a chair and reaching up toward a small, rectangle window.
#21 Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi
MAP. 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
MAP. Once called Malay Lane for the Malays that settled on the street, in the early 1800s, the name was changed for the Armenian traders that took up residence there.
#23 Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple
MAP. The pretty Taoist Hock Teik Cheng Sin was built in 1845. It was once the meeting place for a secret Chinese society (which is why a Kuan Kong statue is placed on the roof).
#24 Kids on Bicycle Mural
MAP. One of Zacharevic’s most loved pieces of artwork in Penang, Children on Bicycle is a small painting of two kids enjoying a ride…on an actual bike. It shows how real items can be incorporated into street art.
#25 Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Clan House
MAP. The ornate Cheah Kongsi dates to the year 1873 and incorporates multiple architectural styles, including Malay, Straits Chinese and European influences.
#26 China House
MAP. The China House is a conglomeration of shops, cafes and galleries, in three historical buildings. The popular bakery here is one of the best places in George Town, Penang for dessert – as it offers 30 different cakes.
#27 Boy on Motorbike Mural
MAP. The Boy on Motorbike by Zacharevic depicts a familiar scene: a driver looking over his shoulder for oncoming traffic. It also incorporates the building doors and an actual motorbike!
#28 Children Playing Basketball Mural
MAP. Artist Louis Gan (who is both deaf and mute) created Children Playing Basketball (aka Hoola Hoop Basketball), utilizing a real hoop!
#29 Brother and Sister on Swing Mural
MAP. The most popular painting in Penang by Louis Gan is Brother and Sister on Swings, which is on Step By Step Lane.
The artwork features two young kids standing on one swing, while the other is open for people to become part of the artwork and take fun photos!
#30 Chinese Clan Jetties
MAP. There are six clan jetties in George Town. Planked boardwalks line the neighborhood of houses that stand on stilts over the water.
Chew Jetty is the most commercialized and tourist-friendly. Shops and cafes line the walkway and boats docked alongside offer tours.
Kuan Yin Floating Temple (Hean Boo Thean Buddhist 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
After visiting the top George Town attractions and these famous places in Penang, give your feet a rest and cool off for a bit!
In the evening, delve into the wonderful world of Penang food. We feature the best places to eat in Penang later in the article.
Penang Tour Guide in George Town
While our self-guided tour is one of the best free things to do in Penang, we understand that some travelers prefer a professional guide. This Private City Tour gets rave reviews!
DAY 2: Activities on 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 is popular for it’s cooler temperatures and stunning views. Temples, gardens and nature walks can be combined together to create a fun day trip in Penang!
Getting from George Town to Penang Hill
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 to visit Kek Lok Si Temple.
Next, walk to the funicular (buy tickets in advance) and ride to the top. Then take in the vista, go on a nature walk to explore the flora and fauna and tour the Bel Retiro Bungalow.
Pro Tip: Alternatively, book a Penang Hill Excursion Package!
Kek Lok Si Temple
Located at the base of Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si is one of Penang’s top tourist attractions. The Buddhist 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.
Travel Tip: Ride the funicular back down and take a Grab to the other side of Penang Hill for the next 2 sights.
Penang Botanic Garden
The Botanical Garden, which was founded by the British, dates to 1884. Often called Waterfall Gardens, it has numerous sections and is comprised of tropical rainforests, as well as collections of rare plants.
Walking paths weave through the park, where you might encounter the cheeky resident monkeys!
Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple
Nicknamed Waterfall Hill Temple, the origins of the site date to the 1800s. (Although, the current structure was built in 2012).
The temple features the largest Lord Murugan outside of India – and to reach it you must climb 513 steps.
Important Tip: It’s closed from noon until 4:30pm – which is why it’s the last stop on your Penang day trip itinerary!
DAY 3: Penang Beach and More Temples
Now you will embark on another trip 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. While there are several beaches in Penang, Batu Ferringhi is – by far – the most popular.
The bus is the cheapest way to get around today (but also the longest), so again we suggest ordering a Grab Taxi.
Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple
These are both found on the same street, Burmah Lane. 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.
Batu Ferringhi
Boasting a 2.5-mile stretch of sand, Batu Ferringhi has the best beach on Penang Island. The area evolved from a quaint fishing village to a resort haven in the 1970s.
Besides water activities, other attractions here include cultural events and nature sights. We recommend staying into the evening and going to the Batu Ferringhi Night Market.
DAY 4: Discover More of George Town
Spend day 4 of your Penang Itinerary relaxing in George Town. Wander the streets without purpose, visit places you may have skipped on day 1, go shopping or take a ferry across the Strait of Malacca.
Explore Penang George Town without a Checklist
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 believe you will find fun photo ops and tons of other cool stuff to do in George Town when you just set off without a destination in mind!
More Fun Activities in Penang
After a morning of freely meandering the city, spend the afternoon at a museum, shopping mall or on a ferry boat. We detail options in the More Things To Do section below the end of the itinerary.
DAY 5: Penang National Park Day Trip
What we love about longer Penang trips is that it really gives you 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 their trip. Home to secluded beaches and dense forests, the area can provide a full day of adventure.
Penang NP is Malaysia’s smallest national park, but it offers an abundance of outdoor activities.
You can go jungle trekking, take a boat to Monkey Beach, stop by the Penang Turtle Sanctuary and hike up to Muka Head Lighthouse.
Getting here is fairly easy using the 101 Bus. There is a 50RM fee to enter and they only accept cash!
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 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 space 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 to food! We also include a few tips for where to go in Penang at night.
Penang Foodie Haven
Some have labeled Penang as a Food Capital of the World for their incredible offerings. In fact, many people travel here just to sample the cuisine, and we don’t blame them!
The types of food in Penang include Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes. We’ve heard it’s nearly impossible to have a bad meal, but still have a few suggestions!
Char Koay Teow
Char Koay Teow (also sometimes spelled Char Kuey Teow) is a stir-fried noodle dish that ranks as a Malaysian favorite.
Many stalls specialize in making this one and only dish. We prefer ours with chicken, shrimp and duck egg, but no cockles.
Where to Eat Char Koay Teow: Tiger Char Kway Teow located inside Kafe Ping Hooi, but they often run out of food by noon! Another stall 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: 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.
Popiah
Like a spring roll, this is a thin crepe wrapped around a mixture of ingredients (turnip, jicama, beans, sprouts and bean curd being key ingredients).
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.
Best Oyster Omelet Penang: New Lane Hawker Stalls.
Nasi Kandar
Originating in Penang by Indian Muslims, Nasi Kandar is a rice-based dish with fried chicken, beef or calamari and is topped with a spicy curry sauce.
Top Penang Restaurant for Nasi Kandar: Line Clear, which opened in 1930, is open 24 hours and is accessed via a narrow alley.
Nasi Lemak
Considered the national dish of Malaysia, this meal of fragrant rice is 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.
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 styles of this dish.
Top Crispy Duck Spot: Foong Wei Heong
Wanton Mee
Noodle dish topped with char siew and pork-filled dumplings.
Best Wanton Mee Place: 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 Markets
There is a Penang night market – but in a different place each evening! The most popular one in George Town is the Monday Macallum Street Night Market.
International Food Penang
Need a break from Malaysian fare? For a taste of Mexican, go to Holy Guacamole on Love Lane. Their quesadillas and tacos are amazing!
Food Tour Penang
If you are feeling timid about eating street food in Penang, join a guide on a George Town Food Tour!
Penang Nightlife
We often struggle in Malaysia to find bars that fit our style and budget. That said, there are a few places for a cold beer that might want to put on your Penang Itinerary.
- Antarabangsa Enterprise – This liquor store with tables out front offers a cheap and fun drinking experience in George Town.
- The Original Reggae Club – Chill bar where ladies drink for free during happy hour!
More Things To Do in Penang, Malaysia
Need more ideas? Well, we have a few additional suggestions! Use this list for ideas on the afternoon of day 4 of your Penang Itinerary.
Penang Museums
- 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.
- Interactive Venues – Upside Down Museum and 3D Trick Art Museum are popular picks.
Shopping in Penang
- Hin Bus Depot Weekend Market – Arts and crafts from local artists.
- Chowrasta Market – A more traditional Malaysian shopping experience.
- 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 viewing deck in advance of your trip!
Penang Travel Map
This map includes all of the spots featured in our itinerary for Penang. You will also find the sights from our Self Guided Penang Walking Tour.
Penang Travel Tips
Now that you know what to do in Penang, Malaysia, we have some advice about how to get there, where to stay along with our top packing hacks.
You will need to get and stay organized as you make plans. Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of your reservations and tickets!
Getting To and Around Penang
If coming – or going – to Kuala Lumpur, we recommend flying. We start our search for the best deals on airline tickets with Skyscanner.
In George Town, we walked everywhere – but hiring a trishaw is a unique way to get around. Outside of the city center Grab taxi and public buses are the cheapest options.
Where To Stay in Penang, Malaysia
We believe the heart of George Town is the best place to stay in Penang. We stayed at Chulia Mansion.
We liked its central location, affordability, included breakfast and rooftop views. However, there are many Penang Hotels in – or close to – the city center.
Start by checking out these top-rated properties (based on guest reviews) for your upcoming trip. The Edison George Town, Campbell House or Tien Hotel Residence.
Looking for a posh beachfront hotel? Check out the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort in Batu Ferringhi Beach.
Read our Tips for Finding 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. Grab our Free Checklist and let’s get you to Malaysia!
Walking Shoes
We cover some ground in our Penang Itinerary! While it’s a very walkable place, you will want to pack comfortable shoes.
I typically wear these trainers by New Balance. For short walks in the city and at nighttime, I switch to my favorite flip flops.
Travel Camera
Penang is filled with unique architecture and intriguing artworks. It is best to use a real camera to capture it all.
We travel with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens. This set-up is easy to use and takes excellent photos. Plus, it’s a great budget camera for travelers!
Weather 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, 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 additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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