Penang has always been a popular destination. Even back in colonial times, travellers and immigrants from all the over the world would flock to its shores. Today, Penang is still famous, but for different reasons. In Georgetown, the state’s vibrant capital, a whole section of streets has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old and the new blend together in a mix of shophouses-turned-museums and humble hawker stalls that have gained fame internationally. Not to mention the numerous rooftop bars in the city.
You can travel to the sun-soaked beaches of Batu Ferringhi for a day of water sports or lazy sunbathing. Further out, the towns of Butterworth and Balik Pulau may not be the most well-known, but they offer a glimpse into the authentic way of life in Penang.
Don’t miss out on any part of Penang!
Between figuring out where to find street art and which food stall you have to visit, the amount of information can be a little bit overwhelming. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, there’s plenty of things to do in the Pearl of the Orient. There are also a couple of staycation spots you can avail to lengthen your stay and enjoyment in Penang. Here, you’ll find all kinds of things to do in Penang.
Nature trails and hilltop views
1. Take the tram up to Penang Hill (from USD 36.0)
Situated 812 metres (2,664 feet) above sea level, Penang Hill gives panoramic views of the city, and cool, fresh air. On clear days, you can see the mountains of Langkawi and North Kedah. To get back in touch with nature, you can stroll along nature trails and try to spot some of the 100+ bird species that live on the hill. You can enjoy a meal in some of the grandest colonial mansions, or explore the Hindu temple there.
The trip up to Penang Hill is also part of the fun. Visitors can take the Penang Hill Railway. It’s one of the oldest funicular systems. The trip up takes you past dense jungle and the occasional old bungalow. Ticket prices are 30 MYR (7.35 USD) for adults and 5 MYR (1.22 USD) for children (4-6 years old).
Alternatively, you can opt to take a three-hour hike from the Botanic Gardens to the top of the hill.
For more information about Penang Hill, click here.
Bukit Bendera
Address: Perbadanan Bukit Bendera, Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera, Air Itam,11500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
Opening Hours: 6.30 am - 11.00 pm (Ticket counter closes at 10.30 p.m)
Access: Take Rapid Bus 204 to Bukit Bendera
Website: Bukit Bendera
Contact: 604-8288880, 604-8288839, 604-8288861, 604-8288862
While you are up on Penang Hill, take the time to check out Kek Lok Si Buddhist Temple!
Penang Hill Funicular Ticket
Price: from 7.75 USD
Duration: 1 to 8 hours
Website:
Penang Hill and Temple Tour
Duration: 4 hours
2. Go exploring in Penang National Park (from USD 105.0)
Nature might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Penang, but Penang’s National Park has gorgeous trails and beaches for you to explore. It offers two trails – one leads to an old lighthouse that was built in 1883, and the other to Kerachut Beach, which has a Turtle Conservation Centre. It’s a perfect place for a day of picnics, swimming and trekking.
Admission to the park is free, but you will need to bring your passport for registration.
Taman Negara Pulau Pinang
Address: Jalan Hassan Abas, Teluk Bahang, 11050, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8 am until 5 pm
Access: Bus 101 runs from the jetty in Georgetown every 10 to 15 minutes. On its route, this bus travels along Chulia Street, KOMTAR, then out of town along the coast through Batu Ferringhi beach. Get off at the last stop where the bus turns around. The trip takes around one hour to get here from Georgetown, depending on traffic.
Website: Penang National Park
Contact: +604 8813500
If you are uncomfortable with a solo trek, you can hire a guide that will ensure a smooth and pleasant trek.
Penang National Park Half-Day Trek
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
3. Take a calming stroll through Penang Botanical Gardens (from USD 103.0)
Set up in 1844 by the British, Penang Botanical Gardens has a diverse range of local plants that visitors can admire and is one of many great places to visit in Penang. Most notable among these are the cannonball tree, its trunk is wrapped with vines of showy flowers, and large, round fruits, and the sengkuang tree, which has large buttress roots.
You can stroll amongst the many hills and try to spot the garden’s other inhabitants, black giant squirrels, dusky leaf monkeys, and long-tailed macaques. However, do remember that the monkeys are wild animals and there is a fine for feeding them.
You can hike up to Penang Hill from the Moon Gate in the Gardens.
Penang Botanical Gardens
Address: 10470 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 5 am - 9 pm
Contact: +60 4-227 0428
NatureTour :PenangHill(FastLane),BotanicGarden,KekLokSi,Ferringhi
Duration: 6 hours
Penang Tour Guide
Ang Chin Boon
Hello...I am ANG. Licenced Tourist Guide by Ministry of Tourism Malaysia. I was born and raised in George Town, Penang. I just love Guiding !I have been actively doing guiding all these years. Drive my guests to interesting places in Penang Island, Sharing my knowledges & experiences of George Town. I wish their trip becomes story worth sharing.Will you be one of my esteemed guests ? Read more
Tours by Ang
Penang Tour Guide
Vincent Fong
I am a licensed tourist guide of Malaysia specialising in the English language, though I am also able to communicate in the Chinese dialects of Mandarin, Cantonese, Taishanese, Hokkien and my country's national language of Malay. I do all tours inbound of Penang island such as walking tours, food tours, drive tours, historical tours, hill & temples, etc. I am a tourist guide with passion an... Read more
Tours by Vincent
Penang Tour Guide
Hon Seng Phuah
Hello. I am Hon Seng Phuah from Penang. I am a freelance tourist guide since 2013. My tour service includes Penang around island and George Town heritage walking tours. You may experience the Penang multi-culture and best foods like Penang assam laksa, nyonya cuisine, nasi kandar and to name a few, traditional business activities, colonial buildings, modern living city and last least the greene... Read more
Tours by Hon seng
Penang Tour Guide
Jenny Wan Kim Lim
Hi, I'm Jenny! I love showing people around Taiwan and Malaysia. I grew up in Penang and spend a lot of time in Tainan too. For the past few years, I've been a licensed tour guide for these 2 countries , sharing my passion for exploring. Being a guide isn't just a job to me, it's what I love doing. I enjoy finding hidden spots, introducing you to tasty local food, and making sure you have amazi... Read more
Tours by Jenny wan kim
Malls, markets and nightlife
4. Occupy Beach Street
Lebuh Pantai, or Beach Street, is taken over every Sunday by vendors who sell a host of gifts, food and games. It’s part of an initiative that aims to boost Penang as a tourist destination, showcase local artisans, and promote a healthy lifestyle.
The street is divided into four unique Zones, with each Zone supporting a different activity. You can get a henna tattoo or a cool face painting, or join in making some local crafts.
Occupy Beach Street takes place every Sunday from 7 am to 1 pm.
5. Enjoy the nightlife on Upper Penang Road
Penang’s nightlife is pretty happening, if you know where to go. The little island has plenty of things to do at night and there is no shortage of rooftop and beachfront bars, as well as pubs and clubs. Upper Penang Road has the highest concentration of all three. It’s popular with expats and westerners.
The street is closed off to traffic, so you can sit at one of the tables set up outside and watch the crowds filter by. Alternatively, you can bar hop along the street.
Some crowd favourites are the Slippery Senorita, a Latin dance club, and the Soho Free House, a British tavern with great happy hour promotions.
6. Dine by the sea at Gurney Drive (from USD 74.0)
Gurney Drive is most popular for Gurney Drive Hawker Centre. In the past, the hawker stalls were located at the seafront, but they have since been relocated. Now, besides eating your fill at the hawker centre, there are also other things you can do at Gurney Drive.
A stroll along the promenade in the evening offers great views of the sunset. You can also stop by Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon to shop. Both offer trendy and international brands such as Fossil, Sephora and H&M. Some more unique shops to stop by would be Analogue Kaki (Gurney Plaza), a store that specialises in analogue film equipment and Rivet (Gurney Paragon), a lifestyle loft that sells rustic and chic home accessories.
Private George Town by Night with Food Tasting and Trishaw Ride
Duration: 3 hours
On the streets of Georgetown
7. Go on a tour of Penang’s Street Art (from USD 52.0)
Aside from its food, Penang is also famous for its street art. In 2012, Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic was commissioned to create a series of murals for the Georgetown Festival. Since then, the local art scene has exploded, with murals and other types of art appearing all over the streets of Georgetown.
Oftentimes, the murals incorporate their surroundings and real-life objects. Kids on A Bicycle by Zacharevic has a real bicycle, and other murals incorporate trees, swing sets, and motorbikes. Another series, Making Georgetown, is made up of wrought-iron sculptures.
Perhaps the best thing about the murals is how they celebrate the energy and life within Georgetown. Some are a celebration of the local culture and lifestyle, while others, such as 101 Kittens, help to spread an important social message.
Some of the artworks are very popular, so expect to queue before you can take your pictures!
For more information, click here.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Penang's art street is definitely a must-visit when you're there. The vibrant street has alleys after alleys of gorgeous street art that add colour to the already lively Georgetown. Also referred to as "Litho Street" or "Art Alley", this open-air art gallery consists of large-scale murals mostly done by local artists. This popular tourist spot also gives visitors a glimpse into the local culture, as the paintings tell beautiful stories of the local history, personalities, and more.
This is a picture of me with one of my favourites. It's a large mural of cats! Can you spot all of them?
Private George Town Heritage Tour from Penang
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
8. Take a trishaw ride through Penang’s heritage streets (from USD 38.0)
Georgetown is a walkable city, but if you want to travel the streets in style, then go for a trishaw ride. It’s a slower way to travel compared to a taxi or bus, but slowing down gives you the chance to drink in the nook and crannies of Georgetown, and it’s a novel experience in itself. The trishaw riders are also full of information about tourist attractions, thanks to training by the government.
The typical rate for a trishaw ride is 30 MYR (7.35 USD) per hour. Some hotels offer packages, or you can look for a trishaw rider around tourist areas.
Penang Highlights by Trishaw from George Town
9. Admire the wide range of architecture around central Georgetown (from USD 87.63)
Penang is an architecture-lovers dream. It’s jam-packed with a wide range of architectural styles, all thanks to the diverse inhabitants of the island. Of course, there’s the colonial architecture, of which you can see many different kinds. Aside from that, it’s fascinating to see how colonial architecture blends with Chinese and Moorish styles as well. Aside from the usual shophouses, you can also see grand mansions, temples, mosques, and churches.
The best part about wandering about Georgetown is that you don’t just get to see the architecture. Maybe you’ll stumble across some great food, local shops, or some street art. A stroll about downtown Georgetown is sure to give you some insight into local life as well as architecture.
Penang: Top Seven Wonders Of Penang Private Exploration Tour
Duration: 5.0 hour
Explore Penang's diverse cultures and religions
10. Tour the six Clan Jetties on the waterfront (from USD 65.0)
Perched on the backwaters of Georgetown, the six Clan Jetties hark back to a time when Penang was an important maritime port and immigrants came to make their fortune. The six Clan Jetties are Chinese settlements, and are made of houses built on stilts over the water. Each jetty is home to a different clan – Lim, Chew, Tan, Yeoh, Koay, Lee and mixed surnames. Relationships between the clans were bitter, and fights would often break out.
The Chew Jetty, is the most established, with the most houses and a souvenir shop. Do note that people still live in the houses, so be respectful during the visit!
The jetties can be found at Weld Quay, near to Penang Ferry Terminal.
Private Half-Day George Town History Tour
Duration: 4 hours
11. Kek Lok Si Temple (from USD 75.0)
Kek Lok Si Temple is said to be one of the biggest Buddhist temples in the whole of Southeast Asia. It’s an important pilgrimage centre for Buddhists from the various Southeast Asian nations, and it’s usually packed on the weekends.
The sprawling temple complex is already a sight to behold, but some highlights of the temple are the Guanyin Statue and the Kek Lok Si Pagoda. Guanyin is the Goddess of Mercy, and the temple houses a 36.5-metre-high (119.8-foot-high) statue of her.
The Kek Lok Si Pagoda combines influences from three countries. The base is Chinese, the middle Thai, and the top Burmese. If you enter the Pagoda, you can see the different styles of Buddhas, shrines, and decorations. The top of the pagoda also offers stunning views of Penang and the entire temple.
To get there, you can take a taxi or public bus. Plan to spend a couple of hours exploring. Do note that you will have to pay to access various parts of the temple. Fees range from 3 MYR (0.7 USD) to 2 MYR (0.5 USD).
Kek Lok Si Temple
Address: 11500 Ayer Itam, Penang
Access: Take bus #203 or #204 to Air Itam Market. From Georgetown, the ride is about half an hour.
Website: Kek Lok Si Temple
Contact: 04-8283317
Half-Day Penang Kek Lok Si Temple Private Tour
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
12. Walk among snakes at the Snake Temple (from USD 33.0)
Take a wild guess about what this temple’s main attraction is. If you guessed snakes, well, you wouldn’t be wrong! The Snake Temple was built in 1805. Legend has it that when it was built, snakes, particularly pit vipers, starting taking shelter in the temple. The monk who built the temple allowed them to stay, and the snakes have been coming ever since.
Whether or not that legend is true, nobody really knows. Today there are less snakes in the temple then before, but there are still enough to leave you feeling unsettled. They’re free roaming, and most of them are pit vipers. Usually, they can be found coiled on twigs near the altars, or in the trees in the courtyard.
So far, there have been no records of someone being bitten at the Snake Temple. All the same, watch where you step and exercise caution! Snake Temple is a bit out of the way compared to other temples, but if you have children, then this will definitely be interesting for them.
Snake Temple
Address: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9.30 am - 6 pm.
Penang Island Half-Day Tour Including Snake Temple
Duration: 4 hours
13. Soak in the spirituality of the Street of Harmony (from USD 45.0)
Throughout the centuries, immigrants from all over the world have made Penang their home. When they came to Penang, those immigrants also brought their religions with them. There’s nowhere in Penang where this rich and diverse mix of religions can be seen more clearly than along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, the Street of Harmony.
It’s so named because it draws together Georgetown’s four main religions. At the northern end of the street stands St. George’s Church. Further down, you’ll smell the heady scent of incense from the Goddess of Mercy temple before you see it. Next, the colourful, elaborate gopuram (tower) of Sri Maha Mariammam Kovil rises into the air. It’s the oldest Hindu temple on the island. At the end of the street is its namesake, the sprawling Kapitan Keling Mosque. It’s a curious blend of colonial and Moorish architecture.
If you want to visit the church, temples, and mosque along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, it’s advisable to go around the evening, when Sri Maha Mariammam Kovil is open. Remember that these are places of worship, so dress appropriately and be prepared to take off your shoes.
Tip from tour guide
St George's Anglican Church was the first Anglican church in Southeast Asia. The church was built by Indian workers more than 200 years ago, and some building materials were also imported from India. The church was restored after World War II. There are weekend mass sessions conducted in various languages, such as English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.
Street of Harmony Walking Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Lose yourself in the rich history of Penang Island
14. Get a dose of culture at the Penang Peranakan Mansion (from USD 48.85)
The Peranakans were a prominent community in the Straits Settlements, mainly made up of Chinese who adopted select Malay and British ways. While there still are Peranakans today, the culture has started to disappear. The Penang Peranakan Mansion recreates what a rich baba’s (Peranakan male) home would have looked like in the 19th century.
It is housed in one of the heritage mansions, and it is an ornate sight. It has been fashioned in classic Peranakan style, with an eclectic mix of English and Chinese influences. There are also lots of memorabilia, antiques, and artefacts. To learn more about this once-great culture, you can join a free guided tour (11:30 am or 5:30 pm) or visit the mansion yourself. This also adds this mansion to the list of free places to visit in Penang.
Penang Peranakan Mansion
Address: 29 Lebuh Gereja, Georgetown
Opening Hours: 09.30 am - 5 pm, Monday – Saturday
Website: Penang Peranakan Mansion
Contact: +604 264 2929
Tip from tour guide
Marvel at the architecture, lifestyle, and history of the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a top destination in George Town, Penang. Tip for exploring: engage a local guide for insightful commentary. This isn't your typical museum. Without a guided tour, you might miss out on the rich details.
Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing
Duration: 4hrsDuration
15. Learn more about Penang’s elusive history at the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery (from USD 51.0)
In World War ll, the Penang Secretariat Building was bombed, destroying most of the British and Japanese records about the island. Thus, it’s hard to piece together a comprehensive history of Penang. However, a visit to the Penang State Museum can give you more insights into the history of the island.
Housed in a grand colonial building, the museum was established in 1821, and it houses both national and state treasures. A walk through the museum’s permanent exhibit will take you through a history of Penang. It charts major events in Penang’s history like the Penang Riots of 1867. You can also view a replica of a Chinese trader’s home, as well as a Peranakan marriage chamber.
The admission fee is 1 MYR (0.25 USD).
Penang State Museum and Art Gallery
Address: Lebuh Farquhar & Lebuh Light
Opening Hours: 9 am - 11 pm
Website: Penang State Museum and Art Gallery
Contact: +604 261 3144
Private Half-Day Penang Highlights City Tour
Duration: 4 hours
16. Wander about ruins from World War 2 at Tanjong Tokong
For history in its rawest form, go to the Tanjong Tokong World War ll relics. The coastal defences were built by the British in anticipation of an invasion by the Japanese. Today, the site is still standing, but they have been left to the elements. Nothing much has been done to preserve them, which creates an old, eerie atmosphere, as well as the perfect backdrop for some cool photos.
You can enjoy the sea breeze along the retaining wall built in front of the nearby Tua Pek Kong Temple, and then get a meal at the Sea Pearl Lagoon Café, a nearby seafood café. It’s a bit out of the way, but if you like ruins and exploring, then it’s worth a visit.
Tanjong Tokong World War ll relics
Address: Tua Pek Kong Temple, 338 Mukim 18, Tanjong Tokong
17. Visit Fort Cornwallis (from USD 62.0)
Built in the late 18th century, Fort Cornwallis is the largest and most intact fort that can be found in Malaysia. It was first built by Sir Captain Francis Light, from the British East India Company.
The fort was built to defend Penang from enemy attacks, but it was used more for administrative and storage purposes. Some of the highlights of the fort are the statue of Sir Captain Francis Light, which overlooks the Fort Entrance. Another highlight is the Sri Rambai, the largest of the fort’s cannons. Legend has it that infertile women will be able to conceive if they place flowers on the barrel of the canon.
The fort is a great place to learn more about the early history of Penang and the trade agreements of the British East India Company.
Admission is 3 MYR (0.74 USD) for an adult, and 2 MYR (0.49 USD) for a child.
Fort Cornwallis
Address: Padang Kota Lama, 10200 Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9 am - 6.30 pm daily
Contact: 04-261 0262 / 0263
Georgetown Penang Heritage & History Tour with Fort Cornwallis
Duration: 5 hours
The part we've all been waiting for ... food!
18. Expand your waistline with Penang’s Street Food (from USD 62.0)
We can’t say enough about Penang’s street food. The island is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, and the food scene is a wonderful reflection of that. Here, you’ll find roadside pushcarts and packed hawker centres that serve up a variety of Chinese, Malay, and Indian dishes. From oily, stir-fried char kway teow to curry-drenched plates of nasi kandar, Penang’s street food might not be the healthiest, but no trip is complete without trying at least one or two dishes.
Dishes that Penang is best known for include char kway teow, asam laksa, and cendol. Hawker food can be found in nearly any street of Penang, but to find everything in one place, stop by hawker centres such as Joo Hooi Café or the Gurney Drive Hawker Centre.
If you’d like to know more about street food, click here.
Local Market and Food Walking Tour in Penang
Price: from 42 USD
Duration: around 2 hours required.
Website:
Penang Street Food Private Tour with Tastings and Local Guide
Duration: 4 hours
19. Café hop through Georgetown
Hawker food may be what Georgetown is most famous for, but it also has a thriving café scene. If coffee and cake are what you’re craving, there are no shortage of options. From ice cream made with liquid nitrogen to tarts that are exploding with fresh fruits, you won’t have enough time or stomach space to take in all that Penang’s cafes have to offer.
Here are some of our favourites:
20. The Safe Room
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
All ice cream is made using real food ingredients and freeze to order with the magic of the Liquid Nitrogen . The result...
Posted by The Safe Room on Saturday, May 1, 2021
The Safe Room offers liquid nitrogen ice cream, as well as an open-concept kitchen so you can watch the magic happen.
The Safe Room
Address: 42, Lebuh Campbell, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 12 noon - 11 pm (Tuesdays - Thursdays) 12 noon - 12 midnight (Fridays - Sundays) Closed on Mondays.
21. Pik Nik
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by PIK NIK on Thursday, July 22, 2021
Pik Nik was one of the first cafes to open in Penang. It’s full of character, with bright colours and quirky chairs. It is well-known for waffles, which are both sweet and savoury.
Pik Nik
Address: 15, Jalan Nagor, 10500 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 3 pm - 12 midnight (Sunday - Thursdays, except Tuesdays) 3 pm - 1 am (Friday - Saturday). Closed on Tuesdays.
22. Tavern In The Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Saving our planet one step at a time! #cycletotavern #ecowarrior #taverninthepark #hinbusdepot
Posted by Tavern in the Park on Thursday, January 14, 2016
Located in the Hin An Bus Depot Art Centre, Tavern In the Park fits right into the artsy vibe. The café is in a spruced up wooden cottage, which is perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Tavern in the Park
Address: The Great Hall, Castle Winterfell 10150 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 11:30 am - 10 pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
23. Dolce Dessert Café
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Dolce Dessert Penang on Thursday, September 19, 2019
Dolce Dessert Café offers a cool retreat from Penang’s heat. The inside of the café has cute murals all over the walls. It’s also famous for the wide range of desserts that you can find – cakes, tarts, puddings, and macarons can all be enjoyed here. Their passionfruit cheesecake is a must.
Dolce Dessert
Address: 18, Jalan Kek Chuan, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Thursdays 12 noon - 10.30 pm. Fridays - Saturdays 11 am - 11.30 pm. Sundays 11.30 am - 10.30 pm
24. The China House
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by ChinaHouse on Wednesday, December 9, 2020
This is where you go if you can’t make up your mind. The China House combines three heritage homes, creating three distinct atmospheres. Visitors can dine in a courtyard café, a hall, and a bar. The China House’s wide selection of cakes is a beautiful sight to behold.
The China House
Address: 153 & 155, Lebuh Pantai and 183B, Lebuh Victoria, 10300 Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9 am - 12 midnight
25. Eat again at the Chulia Street Night Market
We’ve already talked about the wonders of Penang’s street food. But for an experience that you can write home about, grab a meal at the Chulia Street Night Market.
At night, pushcarts will take over Chulia Street, along with tables and chairs parked haphazardly at the roadside. Dining at Chulia Street is generally quick and fuss-free, but you’ll be at the mercy of the weather. If you get a table right by the road, cars and buses will whizz by as you enjoy your food.
Some recommended things to try are the char kui kah (fried carrot cake – but it’s actually radish and rice cake, with eggs and / or prawns thrown in) and the wanton mee. If you’re unsure which stalls to go to, just look for the ones with the longest queues!
If it does start raining, you can order takeaway and head back to your hotel.
Sun, waves and sand (and more!) at Batu Ferringhi
26. Take some amazing photos with the artwork at Penang 3D Trick Art Museum
Penang 3D Trick Art Museum offers a unique and picturesque experience for any visitor. With over 40 3D optical illusion paintings and sculptures, the museum encourages its visitors to take photos of their displays which is already unique in and of itself when compared to other museums.
The real draw of these artworks is their very nature that allows visitors to take amazing and, sometimes, confusing photos with these artworks as visitors are able to interact with these optical illusions as if they were part of the art itself.
Penang 3D Trick Art Museum Ticket
Duration: 1hrsDuration
27. Play with your kids at Urban Playz
Looking for a place to play with your kids? Look no further than Urban Playz. This Penang attraction has a variety of fun activities that guarantee a memorable experience for everyone. There’s a pedal go-kart that encourages your kids to develop their motor skills. The climbing wall offers your children a challenge to climb up.
The trampoline is a fun place for your kids to experience the thrill and joy of jumping high. There is even a ball area where your kids can play soccer.
Urban Playz Ticket
28. Enjoy a romantic sunset at Batu Ferringhi’s beach
If you’re looking for beach, waves, and sand, look no further than Batu Ferringhi Beach. It’s just a fifteen minute drive from Georgetown, and you can also take a bus. You can head down for an afternoon of water sports, such as jet skis or banana boating, and be back at the beach by 7.15 pm to watch the sun set. The Batu Ferringhi is a mix of public beaches and those taken up by hotels and backpacker hostels. One recommended beach is the one beside Golden Sands by Shangri La Resort.
If you’d rather stay sand-free, there are lots of bars and restaurants along Batu Ferringhi that also provide great views of the setting sun.
29. Make a splash with some water sports (from USD 130.0)
Batu Ferringhi’s smooth sands and beautiful waters are perfect for beach and water sports. If you’re looking for something that’s a little more adrenaline-pumping than sunbathing, you can go jet-skiing, parasailing, or deep-sea fishing. Alternatively, you can stay out of the water and drive a beach buggy through the sand, or take part in a game of beach volleyball or Frisbee.
There are a few companies along the Batu Ferringhi beach that offer these activities. You can stroll along the beach and compare the prices for different companies before making up your mind.
Pulau Payar Marine Park Snorkeling Tour from Penang
30. Take a cooking class (from USD 120.0)
Much Malaysian cooking uses spices – curries, gravies, and meats are often flavoured with them. Where better to learn about some local cuisine than in Batu Ferringhi’s Spice Garden?
The Tropical Spice Garden features three trails of different kinds of flora and fauna. It’s an award-winning farm that places an emphasis on being eco-friendly.
It has recently opened its own cooking school that teaches both adults and kids how to make Nonya, Thai, and Malay cuisine. The dishes use spices from the surrounding gardens. Each four-hour class is about 233.20 MYR (58 USD) per person.
Tropical Spice Garden Cooking School
Address: Lot 595 Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang,11050, Penang, Malaysia.
Opening Hours: 9 am - 6 pm, last admission at 5.15 pm.
Website: Tropical Spice Garden
Book a Cooking Tour here before you head over!
Private Tour: Wet Market and Malaysian Cooking Lesson in Penang
Price: from 107 USD
Duration: around 5 hours required.
Website:
Penang Authentic Malaysia Cooking Class with Teluk Bahang Tour
Duration: 6 hours
31. Learn about the art of batik printing at the Penang Batik Factory (from USD 107.0)
Established in 1973, the Penang Batik Factory is one of the pioneers in batik manufacturing in Penang. Batik is a dyeing technique that uses wax. At the Penang Batik Factory, the batik is hand-drawn or block-printed. Each piece features patterns and colours on both sides of the fabric, unlike other batik factories.
You can buy batik art or clothing at the factory, or watch the batik be produced in the Workshop – it’s full of artists who are drawing, colouring, and block-printing the fabric.
Free tours of the Batik Factory are available.
Penang Batik Factory
Address: 669m, Mk. 2, Teluk Bahang 11050 Penang
Opening Hours: 09 am - 5.30 pm. Closed on public holidays.
Contact: +604 885 1284 or +604 885 1858 or +604 885 1302
You can try and make your own batik handkerchief by going on a tour.
Flavours Of Penang Including Batik Workshop and Local Lunch
Duration: 5 hours
32. Get a good bargain at the Batu Ferringhi Night Market
At night, Batu Ferringhi’s pasar malam (night market) takes over the main road. There, you’ll find a long line of roadside stalls stretching up the road, selling everything from (fake designer) bags and watches, (pirated) DVDs and (legit) food and souvenirs. Get ready for crowds and humidity. Do note that all the prices listed are suggestions; you have to bargain, or you won’t be getting your money’s worth. Then again, for some people, bargaining is all part of the fun. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, just drinking in the liveliness and atmosphere of the night market can be fun too. For an adventure, take a trishaw ride through the market and the back streets.
The night market starts at around 6 - 7 pm, and doesn’t wind down till 11 pm.
33. Watch butterflies at Penang Butterfly Farm (from USD 103.0)
Located right at the end of the tourist strip in Batu Ferringhi, Penang Butterfly Farm is home to over 4,000 butterflies from over 120 species. A visit to the butterfly farm will leave you surrounded by beautiful, fluttering butterflies in a lush garden setting. You can find rare species too, such as the Indian Leaf and the Yellow Bird Wing.
Penang Butterfly Farm considers itself it to be more than just a tourist attraction – it’s an important conservation and breeding centre and is internationally-renowned. So when you stop by on your trip, don’t just admire the butterflies; take a second to learn more about these winged beauties and what is being done to protect them and their habitats.
Penang Butterfly Farm
Address: No. 830, Jalan Teluk Bahang
Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm Monday - Friday; 9 am - 6 pm Saturday & Sunday
Contact: +604 885 1253
Private Tour: Discovery Tour of Entopia Butterfly Farm in Penang
Price: from 55 USD
Duration: around 4 hours required.
Website:
Explore Georgetown City Tour with Entopia Penang Butterfly Farm
Duration: 6 hours
34. Learn about the father of batik at the Yahong Art Gallery
Batik printing is an ancient craft that dates back to as early as the 4th century BC. However, one man is credited with transforming it from a craft to a modern form of art. The batik artwork of that man, Chuah Theng Teng, can be found in the Yahong Art Gallery of Batu Ferringhi. The art gallery is famous for displaying his batik artworks, as well as the works of his sons and other Malaysian and Asian artists.
Here, you’ll find a wide range of art, ranging from batik to watercolour and jewellery. Other exhibits also include an ancient Malaysian medicine horn and a Sarawak tribal chief’s staff.
Yahong Art Gallery
Address: 58-D, Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10 am - 10 pm
Contact: (604) 881 1251
The lesser-known parts of Penang
35. Visit Penang Floating Mosque
Tanjung Bungah is a quiet town sandwiched between the tourist hot-spots of Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi. It does have some attractions, though, and one of them is the Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque. Situated along the beach, the mosque is perched on stilts. During low tide, you can walk below the mosque. It was the first mosque in Malaysia to be built in the sea.
If you’re on the way to Batu Ferringhi, this is a nice place to stop by to get some cool pictures. A visit inside the mosque will have to be arranged with the mosque officials, and you will have to be appropriately dressed.
Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque
Address: Tanjung Bungah Road, Pulau Pinang, 11200, Penang, Malaysia
36. Take a ferry to Butterworth
Most people associate Penang with Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi, but Penang is also made up of the town of Butterworth. You’ll have to take a ferry to get from Penang Island to this Penang mainland attraction. The ferry ride is already part of the fun – it gives you a chance to soak in the breeze and enjoy the view of Georgetown. Cars are also ferried across, and the ferry is rustic and full of character. It makes for an interesting (if not very clean) experience.
In Butterworth, you can visit the Nine Emperor Gods Temple, which is a sprawling Taoist complex. The Penang Bird Park is also found on the mainland, and you can walk in enormous aviaries with over 300 bird species.
As night approaches, you can take another ferry back and admire the lights of Georgetown from afar.
Ferry tickets are 1.20 MYR (0.29 USD) for adults and 0.60 MYR (0.15 USD) for children.
37. Take a bus ride up to Balik Pulau (from USD 76.0)
For an escape from the city and touristy sights of Georgetown, head up to the sleepy little town of Balik Pulau for the afternoon. Found in the south-west of Penang Island, you can reach Balik Pulau via taxi, but for an authentic experience, why not try taking the Rapid Bus? It’ll take you through Georgetown’s heritage streets, past the Snake Temple, and through the rolling greens of the jungle.
Balik Pulau consists of just one main road. You can navigate the town easily on foot, and look around for rice paddies and fruit farms. Balik Pulau is most well-known for it’s Thai laksa, which is more creamy than the usual asam laksa.
If you’re not keen on the bus, you can opt to cycle or ride a motorbike to Balik Pulau. That’s an option that will give you a lot more freedom to drink in the peacefulness of the Malaysian countryside.
Private Half-Day Tour: Village Lifestyle at Balik Pulau
Duration: 5 hours
Georgetown, Batu Ferringhi and a lot more!
Georgetown, and specifically the UNESCO World Heritage Zone, might be the part of Penang that most people visit, but confining your trip to just the heritage streets will never give you the full Penang picture. You can make an entire itinerary for exploring Georgetown alone. And to give yourself more time to enjoy the wonders of Penang, there are numerous hotels, both Muslim-friendly and heritage hotels, that you can avail. So don’t be afraid to hop in a cab, or on a bus or ferry and explore the rest of the state. It won’t disappoint.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Penang
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