Penang
Penang is known for its heritage streets, local food, and relaxed island pace. Much of the action is centered around George Town, where old buildings, cafés, and street art sit side by side. It’s a pl...
Top Activities in Penang
Check out our handpicked selection of top-rated experiences and activities.
Quick Facts
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Languages
Malay, English
Best Time to Visit
Dec, Jan, Feb, March, April, July
Timezone
UTC
About
Penang is one of those places that feel both familiar and surprising at the same time. Most visitors start in George Town, where old clan houses, weathered shophouses, and bright murals sit side by side with trendy cafés and small art studios. It’s easy to spend hours just walking around, stopping whenever something catches your eye. The island has a quieter side as well. Batu Ferringhi has a long beach and laid-back feel, and Penang Hill features cooler air and expansive views over the island once you take the funicular railway to the top. If you like nature, the trails in Penang National Park take you to undeveloped beaches and a little bit of wildlife if you’re lucky. And naturally, the food is a major drawing card. Whether it’s Assam Laksa from a streetside stall, Char Kway Teow cooked over a hot wok, or a plate of Nasi Kandar heaped with curries snaking their way up into the atmosphere, Penang’s food is something visitors remember long after they are gone.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often say Penang has its own rhythm. You’ve got old buildings and modern cafés sitting right next to each other, beaches not too far away, and food stalls everywhere you turn. It feels lively but not rushed, which is why many travelers end up staying longer than they planned.
It really depends on the kind of trip you want. George Town is great if you like being surrounded by things to see and do, lots of cafés, murals, and markets within a short walk. Batu Ferringhi works better if you’d rather be near the beach and enjoy slower mornings.
For the most part, yes. George Town is compact enough to explore on foot, though the heat can be something. When you need to go farther, most travelers just use Grab since it’s straightforward and usually inexpensive. Buses are there too, but people tend to rely on them less.
Penang has a long list of dishes people swear by. A bowl of Assam Laksa is a good start, and Char Kway Teow is another classic that tastes different depending on who cooks it. Curry Mee and Nasi Kandar are also big favorites. Half the fun is trying whatever looks good at the hawker stalls.
Yes, families enjoy attractions like Entopia Butterfly Farm, The Habitat at Penang Hill, and the beaches of Batu Ferringhi. The island has a mix of nature, culture, and easy activities for all ages.
Popular day trips include exploring Balik Pulau for its countryside scenery, visiting Penang National Park, or taking a short drive to the mainland to see nearby towns like Butterworth and Bukit Mertajam.