George Town and Penang Island, located off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, is a popular destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and delicious street food. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to this vibrant island:
- Getting around: The best way to explore Penang is by renting a car or hiring a driver. Public transportation is limited, so having your own wheels will give you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.
- Street food: Penang is famous for its street food, so make sure to indulge in some local favorites like Char Kway Teow, Hokkien Mee, and Nasi Kandar. Visit Gurney Drive for a wide variety of street food stalls.
- Beaches: Penang has some beautiful beaches, such as Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah, where you can relax and soak up the sun. Water sports like parasailing and jet skiing are also popular activities.
- Temples and mosques: Visit the iconic Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, as well as the Kapitan Keling Mosque, a historic mosque in George Town.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: George Town, the capital of Penang, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and multicultural heritage. Take a walking tour to explore the city’s history and culture.
Things to do in Penang George Town / Top 10 sites and monuments to visit in Penang Island and George Town
- Kek Lok Si Temple (https://www.kekloksitemple.com/) Pricing: Entrance fee of RM 2 for adults How to get there: Take a taxi or Grab to Air Itam, where the temple is located.
- Penang Hill (https://www.penanghillcorporation.com/) Pricing: The funicular train ticket costs RM 30 for foreigners How to get there: Take a taxi or Grab to the Penang Hill Railway Station.
- Penang Peranakan Mansion (http://www.pinangperanakanmansion.com.my/) Pricing: Entrance fee of RM 20 for adults How to get there: Located in George Town, easily accessible by taxi or walking.
- Penang Butterfly Farm (http://www.butterfly-insect.com/) Pricing: Entrance fee of RM 27 for adults How to get there: Take a taxi or Grab to Teluk Bahang, where the butterfly farm is located.
- Fort Cornwallis (https://www.penang-traveltips.com/fort-cornwallis.htm) Pricing: Entrance fee of RM 20 for adults How to get there: Located in George Town, easily accessible by walking or taxi.
- Street Art in George Town (https://www.penang.ws/attractions/street-art.htm) Pricing: Free How to get there: Explore the streets of George Town on foot to discover the vibrant street art.
- Clan Jetties of Penang (https://www.penang.ws/attractions/clan-jetties.htm) Pricing: Free How to get there: Located near the Chew Jetty in George Town, easily accessible by walking.
- Penang National Park (https://www.penangnationalpark.gov.my/) Pricing: Entrance fee of RM 5 for adults How to get there: Take a taxi or Grab to Teluk Bahang and then catch a boat to the national park.
- Khoo Kongsi Clan House (https://khookongsi.com.my/) Pricing: Entrance fee of RM 15 for adults How to get there: Located in George Town, easily accessible by walking or taxi.
- Penang War Museum (https://www.penangwar.com/) Pricing: Entrance fee of RM 35 for adults How to get there: Take a taxi or Grab to Batu Maung, where the war museum is located.
Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel
If you’re looking for travel insurance, we recommend the following travel insurance provider:
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| World Nomads Travel Insurance | Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip with Travelex | Cancel for any reason with Travel Guard |
Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
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3 days in George Town Penang Island Visit Day by Day
Day 1:
- Visit Kek Lok Si Temple and Penang Hill in the morning.
- Enjoy street food at Gurney Drive for lunch.
- Explore Penang Peranakan Mansion and Penang Butterfly Farm in the afternoon.
- End the day with a visit to the vibrant street art in George Town.
Day 2:
- Start the day with a visit to Fort Cornwallis.
- Explore the Clan Jetties of Penang and Khoo Kongsi Clan House.
- Relax at Batu Ferringhi Beach in the afternoon.
- Visit the Penang National Park for a nature walk and beach time.
Day 3:
- Explore the historic Georgetown with a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Penang War Museum for a glimpse into the island’s history.
- Shopping and eating at local markets and hawker stalls.
- End the day with a sunset cruise around the island.
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Where to Stay in George Town Penang Island / Top Rated hotels in George Town and Penang Island:
Top Rated Hotels in George Town Penang Over $200 per night:
- Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion
- Eastern & Oriental Hotel
- Courtyard by Marriott Penang
- Penang Marriott Hotel
- 88 Armenian
Best Reviewed Hotels in George Town and Penang Island Between $100 to $200 per night:
- Campbell House
- JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La
- Ren I Tang Heritage Inn
- Courtyard by Marriott Penang
- The Granite Luxury Hotel Penang
Recommended George Town and Penang Island hotels Between $50 to $100 per night:
- SAVV HOTEL
- ke-lan-tan House
- Sleep Box Penang
- Evergreen Laurel Hotel Penang
- Sunway Hotel Georgetown Penang
Best Penang Island Hotels Between $20 to $50 per night:
Top George Town Penang Hostels and Budget Hotels Below $20 per night:
Please note that prices may vary based on availability and seasonality, so be sure to check the booking websites for the most up-to-date rates and availability. Enjoy your stay in George Town and Penang Island!
For more from Malaysia, Borneo and Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, George Town and Penang Island, and more travel destinations in Malaysia, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
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