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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 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 believe 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 are trying to plan a 2 or 3 day Penang itinerary. To help travelers create the best itinerary to Penang, we outline alternative ideas 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 prime things to do in George Town – as well as feature top Penang Island tourist spots.
For each day, we detail what to see in Penang and include pertinent details about each spot. Additionally, we provide a useful Penang attraction map 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 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 top attractions in Penang just outside the city center, too.
Origins of George Town
Understanding the history of George Town is essential in making sense of the differing architectural styles and cultures 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 that became independent. Because of the many 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. These differing styles makes the George Town historical core the most interesting place in Penang.
Penang Art Scene
Whether taking a 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 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 tell the story of the town. The project paved the way for other street artists.
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 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
Because seeking out street art is one of the top things to do in George Town Penang, we have included the most popular wall art murals in our trip plan. That said, there are numerous diplays throughout town that are lesser known, but still intriguing.
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. Alright, now let’s get to it!
DAY 1: Must-Visit Penang Itinerary
Day 1 of our Penang trip itinerary begins near Swetternham Pier, and includes the top 30 places to visit in George Town.
We start with a self-guided walking tour of the must-visit places. 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.
Self Guided Walking Tour Penang
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, 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 suggest 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, 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
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
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
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 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
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 is the oldest Taoist temple in the city. The temple is a Penang must-visit; both tourists and devotees gather 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, 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. Note: Visitors can only enter from 6:30am to 12noon and from 4:30pm to 9:00pm.
#15 Kapitan Keling Mosque
Built in 1801 and renovated in 1930, the Kapitan Keling Mosque sits at the center of the city in the Tamil Muslim neighborhood. 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 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 he 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, this museum is housed in the 1860 Syed Alatas Mansion. It is one of the places to visit in Penang Island to learn more about the diversity of the region.
#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, rectangle 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 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.
#23 Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple
The pretty Taoist Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple 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 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 ride…on an actual bike. It’s one of the prime places 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.
#27 Boy on Motorbike Mural
The Boy on Motorbike Mural by Zacharevic, depicts a familiar scene in the city: a 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 the Boy with Pet Monster mural. 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 Step By Step Lane. The artwork uses a swing set and features two young kids standing on one swing, while the other is open for people to become part of the artwork and take fun Penang photos!
#30 Chinese Clan Jetties
There are six clan jetties in George Town. 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. Shops and cafes line the walkway and boats docked alongside offer tours. However, respectful visitors are free to explore the other jetties as well.
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 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 would rather hire a professional guide. This private Penang City Tour gets rave reviews and includes hotel pick up!
DAY 2: 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 tourist attractions around Penang Hill. Temples, gardens and nature walks can be combined together to create 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 thing to do at Penang Hill…is go to the top! Although it is possible to trek up, riding the funicular is one of the fun things to do in Penang. The Penang Hill Railway transports passengers up the steep 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, go on a nature walk to explore the flora and fauna and learn about the history of the area (including Bel Retiro and the bungalows).
Top Tip: Buy Skip-the-Line Tickets in advance. This is essential if you plan on visiting more nearby attractions on this one-day Penang Hill Itinerary!
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.
Top Tip: Book a Private Combo Tour to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple for a complete experience!
Penang Botanic Garden
The 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 nearby, this Hindu temple is a peaceful place to go. 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 visitors must climb 513 steps.
Top Tip: The temple closes 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
On Day 3 of your Penang trip plan, 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.
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.
Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple
The Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temples are both found on the same street, Burmah Lane. 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.
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.
Most things to do in Batu Ferringhi are water activities, but other attractions include cultural events and nature sights. We recommend staying into the evening and going to the Batu Ferringhi Night Market – it’s a top Penang place to visit at night!
DAY 4: More Things To Do in Penang George Town
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 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 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.
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 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. Visitors can go jungle trekking, take a boat to Monkey Beach, stop by the Penang Turtle Sanctuary and hike up to Muka Head Lighthouse.
How To Get to Penang National Park
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 there, although it is free to enter, visitors are required to register with the park service (so bring a copy of your passport).
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 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 to 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 their incredible offerings. In fact, many people travel to Penang just for the food (and we don’t blame them!).
Penang food includes an array of cuisine – such as traditional Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes. We’ve heard it’s nearly impossible to have a bad meal, but we have a few 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. 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!
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, Nasi Lemak 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.
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 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 on Love Lane (quesadillas and tacos highly recommended!).
Food Tour Penang
If you are feeling timid about 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!
Penang Nightlife
We often struggle in Malaysia to find bars that fit our style and budget. That 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 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 for Penang sights and activities. Use this list for ideas on the afternoon of Day 4 of our 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.
- Penang House of Music – Learn the history of Penang music in this highly-rated museum.
- Interactive Museums – Fun spots for photo ops, there are several spaces that are designed to be interactive. Upside Down Museum, 3D Trick Art Museum and Made in Penang Museum are popular picks.
Shopping in Penang
- 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 recently renovated wet and dry market.
- 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 attractions and restaurants featured in our itinerary for Penang. You will also find the numbered sights from our Self Guided Penang Walking Tour. Use this Google Map for an online version of our Penang tourist attractions map below.
Penang Sample 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. To help, we have created ideal trip plans for shorter stays.
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, book a Penang City Half Day Tour that highlights the best city sights – like this one!
Penang Itinerary 1 Day
For those limited to one day of 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 on foot. Use our Self-Guided Walking Tour to discover the prime city sights.
Spend the afternoon at one of the must-visit places in Penang beyond George Town. Select one place to see – like Penang Hill or one of the temples.
End your Penang one-day trip by feasting on local food specialties from street vendors or at top-rated restaurants.
2 Day Penang Itinerary
Day 1 – Take a quick self-guided tour of the best places in Georgetown. 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 – Go on a day trip to nearby attractions. First, visit Wat Chaiyamangalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple. Then, continue north to Batu Ferringhi for an afternoon of sea and sun. Stay for the Night Market.
Penang Itinerary 3 Days
Day 1: Tour George Town, Penang (as outlined in our Self-Guided Walk) at a more leisurely pace, including time to relax in cafes and visit museums. At night, join a Penang Food Tour or set off to explore the scene on your 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.
Day 3: Go 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 the island. Plus, you have plenty of time to devour more incredible food!
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
Now that you know what to do in Penang, Malaysia, we have some advice about how to get there, where to stay and our top packing hacks.
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 bookings in Penang and throughout Southeast Asia.
Getting to Penang
The best way to get to Penang is via the Penang International Airport (PEN). That said, the city can also be reached by car, bus or ship. 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. It’s tempting to 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.
See the Best of KL with Kuala Lumpur Itinerary!
Getting around Penang
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. The reason we picked this property was for its central location, affordability, incredible included breakfast and rooftop views.
However, there are many Penang Hotels 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.
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. Grab our Free Packing Checklist to make sure you don’t forget a single thing!
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 shoes by Columbia. For short walks in the city and at nighttime, I switch to my favorite flip flops.
Travel Camera
Penang is an incredibly beautiful city filled with unique architecture and intriguing artworks. It is best to use a real camera to capture the sights.
We travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens. This set-up is easy to use and takes excellent photos. Plus, it’s a great budget camera for travelers!
Penang 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 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!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
