About Penang
Penang stays can mean George Town’s heritage lanes and food streets or a seaside base in Batu Ferringhi. The island suits a trip built around eating, historic sights, family attractions and evenings by the water.
Arriving by train, aim for Butterworth, then take the ferry to Penang Island; George Town gives first-timers a practical base for its heritage sights and the free CAT bus. Stay in Little India or near Campbell Street for small shops, souvenirs and food streets, or choose Gurney Drive for hawker food. Batu Ferringhi suits beach days and resort facilities, while Tanjung Bungah offers a quieter seaside stay. Families can reach The TOP Komtar in George Town and attractions around Teluk Bahang from an island base. George Town’s heritage streets are a good fit for visitors who want temples, mosques, clan houses and evening walks close together.
Hotels in Penang
Book direct on our own Penang hotel pages — no booking fee.
Muntri Grove Hotel
8.7V. good · 282 Reviews
127 129 131a - F Lebuh Muntri | Penang, 10200, MY
Angsana Teluk Bahang Penang
8.8V. good · 1,710 Reviews
11 Jalan Teluk Bahang | Penang, 11050, MY
FUHOTEL
8.8V. good · 194 Reviews
53 Lorong Setia Sentral 1 Pusat Perniagaan Setia Sentral | Penang, 14000, MY
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Places to stay by type in Penang
Places to stay in Penang
Hotels near landmarks
All landmarksDistricts
- George Town Historic Core127 stays
- Gurney Drive168 stays
- Batu Ferringhi62 stays
- Little India106 stays
- Tanjung Bungah51 stays
- Air Itam24 stays
Hotel brands
Browse Penang stays
By budget
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By type
- Residences1,231
- Apartments1,288
- Hotels450
- Guest houses193
- Holiday homes71
- Villas56
- Hostels34
- Resorts16
- Inns14
- Bed and breakfasts8
- Motels9
- Aparthotels5
- Lodges3
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By facility
- Places to stay with a kitchen395
- Stays with a pool284
- Family-friendly stays390
- Hotels with free parking404
- Hotels with an airport shuttle132
- Stays with a spa26
- Hotels with a hot tub17
- Hotels with free breakfast6
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By location
Penang at a glance
History, culture and food in Penang
Food to try
When to visit Penang
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
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Jan73
Thaipusam
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Feb75
Thaipusam
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Mar58
Beach weather (sea 30°C)
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Apr39
Rainy (240 mm)
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May25
Rainy (240 mm)
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Jun29
Rainy (180 mm)
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Jul39
George Town Festival (rainy (180 mm))
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Aug34
Rainy (230 mm)
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Sep17
Very wet (330 mm rain)
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Oct0
Often avoided: heavy rain
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Nov5
Often avoided: heavy rain
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Dec61
Beach weather (sea 29°C)
Things to do in Penang
11 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 11 of 11 places ·
Best in the morning
3 places
ESCAPE Penang
Teluk Bahang
Spend a day on rides and water attractions in the rainforest; the park opens at 10:00 am and Waterplay at 11:00 am.
Kek Lok Si
Air Itam
Walk through the hillside temple complex and see its seven-storey pagoda; the temple is in Air Itam.
Armenian Street
George Town
Look for the Kids on Bicycle mural and nearby street art; allow 45–60 minutes to walk the area.
Best in the afternoon
3 places
The TOP Komtar
George Town
Take in the city from the Rainbow Skywalk or visit indoor attractions; the Skywalk opens at 10:00 am.
Kapitan Keling Mosque
George Town
See the domes and tall minaret, and visit between prayers; suitable clothing is available for visitors.
Clan Jetties
George Town
Walk among stilt houses and waterfront plank paths; allow about 45 minutes for a visit to Chew Jetty and the jetties.
Best in the evening
5 places
Penang Hill
Penang Hill
Ride the funicular for hilltop views; the last train down leaves the Upper Station at 11:00 pm.
Entopia by Night
Teluk Bahang
See Entopia after dark; evening visits run Thursday to Sunday, with last admission at 9:00 pm.
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre
Gurney Drive
Try Penang-style pasembur and char koay teow; the centre has separate halal and non-halal sections.
Chulia Street
George Town
Go for evening hawker noodles such as char bee hoon and char koay teow; food stalls commonly start opening around 5:00 pm.
Batu Ferringhi Night Bazaar
Batu Ferringhi
Browse souvenirs and look out for craft or batik demonstrations; the roadside stalls operate 7:00 pm–11:00 pm daily.
Penang itineraries, day by day
Three Days in Penang: Heritage, Hills and Coast
Walk George Town’s old streets, ride the hill funicular and finish with a north-coast evening.
This three-day route suits travellers who want George Town’s heritage core on foot, a hilltop visit and time by the sea, without packing every day with long outings. Day one links murals, a clan house, a mosque, a mansion tour and the Clan Jetties; day two pairs Penang Hill with Kek Lok Si; day three heads to Teluk Bahang and Batu Ferringhi. Arrange the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion tour first, since tours often sell out. Stay in George Town for the first two days, then use buses and short rides to reach the island’s north coast.
Two Days in Penang: George Town and Penang Hill
Pair George Town’s heritage streets and hawker food with Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si and Gurney Drive.
This Penang 2 day itinerary suits first-time visitors who want George Town’s heritage core, local food and a day among the hill sights without changing base. Day one is a walking route through murals, clan and religious landmarks, followed by an evening food stop. Day two shifts to the funicular, The Habitat, Kek Lok Si and Gurney Drive. Arrange the Blue Mansion guided tour first, since tours often sell out, then fit the heritage walk around its set start times. A George Town base keeps the first day’s stops close at hand.
One Day on Penang Island: George Town and Hill
Walk George Town’s heritage lanes, ride up Penang Hill and finish with hawker food.
This one-day route suits travellers who want George Town heritage, a hill visit and a local-food finish without adding extra stops. Start among the Armenian Street murals, then walk to Khoo Kongsi and Chew Jetty before switching to road transfers for Penang Hill and The Habitat. Return to George Town for dinner on Chulia Street. Check Penang Hill’s ticket-counter hours and The Habitat’s last entry before setting out; those cutoffs shape the afternoon. The morning is mostly on foot, while traffic can affect the hill transfers.
Kuala Lumpur to Penang Road Trip in 3 Days
Break the drive with a Cameron Highlands night, then spend a day among George Town’s heritage stops.
Drivers who want to split the Kuala Lumpur–Penang road journey into varied days get a temple visit, a Cameron Highlands overnight and a full day in George Town. Day 1 moves from Batu Caves to Tanah Rata and BOH Sungei Palas Tea Garden; day 2 pairs an early forest walk with the long transfer to Penang, ending over hawker food. Day 3 keeps the heritage stops close before a ride up Penang Hill. Arrange the Mossy Forest 4WD access package with a Cameron Highlands travel agent first; access to the forest is limited to four-wheel-drive vehicles. Sleep in Tanah Rata, then George Town’s heritage core.
A One-Day George Town Walk: Murals and Mansions
Follow street art, a clan house and two mansion visits before finishing at an art space.
This full day suits walkers who like public art, heritage buildings and a guided mansion visit. The rhythm starts outdoors on Armenian Street, moves to Khoo Kongsi and a timed Blue Mansion tour, then continues to Pinang Peranakan Mansion and Hin Bus Depot. Arrange the Blue Mansion tour first: its fixed daily slots shape the order of the day, and the venue recommends booking ahead. You can walk between the first four stops; take a car or e-hailing ride for the final transfer.
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Three Days in Penang with Kids: Murals to Beach
Trace George Town murals, ride the hill railway, then spend a full day on Penang’s north coast.
This three-day route suits families with children who like spotting murals, riding a hill railway and mixing outdoor attractions with beach time. Day one keeps the George Town walks together; day two combines the hill, canopy and gardens; day three heads north for parks and the shore. Armenian Street, Fort Cornwallis and Chew Jetty make a walkable opening, while the middle day brings road transfers between outdoor stops. Arrange ESCAPE’s facial-recognition registration before arrival and check its operating day first. Staying in George Town keeps the first day simple; Batu Ferringhi puts you near the final beach evening.
Penang Food Itinerary: Two Days of Hawker Stops
Two days of spice shops, George Town hawkers, Air Itam temple halls and Gurney Drive supper.
Food-focused travellers who enjoy tasting their way through a city will find a good mix here: browse Little India’s spice shops, graze along Chulia Street, then make time for Chew Jetty’s waterfront walkways. Day two changes pace with a visit to the halls and pagoda at Kek Lok Si Temple before an evening meal at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre. The days pair street wandering with a temple visit and plenty of chances to sample local dishes. Arrange day two around Gurney Drive’s opening hours first, and confirm any specific stall you especially want to try.
Penang’s Green Hills and North Coast in 2 Days
Ride the hill railway, walk forest trails and finish with a beachside evening market.
This two-day itinerary suits travellers who want hill views, garden paths and a north-coast stretch of forest and shore. Day one moves from the Penang Hill funicular to The Habitat and Penang Botanic Gardens; day two pairs Penang National Park with Tropical Spice Garden and an evening at Batu Ferringhi. The pace leaves room for walks without cramming in extra stops. Arrange a car or e-hailing rides for the north-coast transfers first, then check opening details before setting out.
Tours and activities in Penang
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Unstructured tour
Private Transfer: Penang Island to or from Perak
Standard tour
Whitewater Rafting & Tree Top Walk Sedim Riverside from Penang
Standard tour
Street of Harmony Walking Tour
Unstructured tour
Penang International Airport Plaza Premium Lounge
Unstructured tour
Private Penang Arrival transfer to Hotel
Standard tour
Penang Countryside Small Group Cycling Tour by Matahari
Activity tour
6D 5N Tour Penang-Camerons-Taman Negara-K. Lumpur-Malacca -KLIA
Standard tour
TeddyVille Museum Penang Malaysia Entry Ticket
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Before you go to Penang
Penang essentials at a glance
- ETS journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth
- 4.5 hr
- CAT bus frequency in George Town
- 15 min
- Tourism tax per room per night for non-Malaysians
- RM10
- Service tax on registered taxable hotel accommodation
- 8%
- Nominal electricity supply
- 230 V
- Malaysia time zone
- UTC+8
Getting there
Take the ETS from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth, then catch the ferry to Penang Island.
- The train journey takes about 4.5 hours.
- The ferry carries passengers and vehicles, with fares collected at Butterworth.
- Departures from Butterworth run between 6:30 am and 11:00 pm.
Getting around
Use the free CAT bus for central George Town and Rapid Penang buses for wider island journeys.
- CAT links Weld Quay Jetty and KOMTAR, serving 19 stops every 15 minutes from 6:00 am until midnight.
- Taxis and e-hailing are also available; check a taxi’s meter or agree the fare before the ride.
- Bus 204 serves the Penang Hill Funicular Railway Station.
Where to stay
Choose George Town for heritage and food, or Batu Ferringhi for beaches and resort facilities.
- George Town is a practical base for historic sights, shops and the CAT bus.
- Tanjung Bungah is a seaside option with resorts and coves, while Teluk Bahang is quieter.
- Batu Ferringhi has hotels, water sports, restaurants and leisure activities.
Shopping
Shop for small goods in George Town or browse the evening bazaar in Batu Ferringhi.
- Little India and Campbell Street have souvenirs, antiques and other small goods; Chowrasta Bazaar sells local products.
- Lebuh Pasar, Queen Street and Chulia Street have Indian shops selling clothing, accessories, spices and sweets.
- Batu Ferringhi’s roadside market sells souvenirs, T-shirts, handbags and accessories.
Food and halal
Try Penang dishes at hawker centres, and use Gurney Drive’s separate halal and non-halal sections.
- Local favourites include char koay teow, assam laksa, nasi kandar, pasembur and cendol.
- Gurney Drive Hawker Centre serves food from late afternoon into the night.
- The Penang street-food map marks Muslim and halal outlets.
Evenings out
Spend an evening on Chulia Street, at Gurney Drive or among Batu Ferringhi’s market stalls.
- Lebuh Chulia is an evening street-food area, with hawker centres commonly starting service around 5:00 pm.
- Gurney Drive Hawker Centre stays open until midnight.
- The Batu Ferringhi night bazaar sells souvenirs and may have local craft and batik demonstrations.
Muslim visitors
Visit Kapitan Keling Mosque between prayers, and look for halal choices at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre.
- The mosque welcomes visitors and has suitable clothing available.
- Suggested visiting windows are 10:00 am–1:00 pm, 2:00–4:00 pm and 5:00–7:00 pm.
- Gurney Drive Hawker Centre separates halal and non-halal sections.
With children
Plan family time at The TOP Komtar or make a day for the rides and water attractions at ESCAPE Penang.
- The TOP has a skywalk, dinosaur centre and aquarium among its indoor attractions.
- Its Rainbow Skywalk, Observatory Deck and restaurant open at 10:00 am; online tickets must be bought at least a day ahead.
- ESCAPE is an outdoor adventure and water park in the Teluk Bahang rainforest.
Weather and when
Penang is hot throughout the year, and every month brings rain.
- Average monthly highs sit around 31–32°C.
- September to November are the wettest stretch in the month figures, with September at about 330 mm, October at 380 mm and November at 350 mm.
- January and February bring Thaipusam, while George Town Festival is held in July and August.
Money, tax and tipping
Use ringgit, budget for hotel taxes and treat tipping as optional.
- Malaysia’s currency is the ringgit, commonly written RM.
- Tourism tax for non-Malaysian guests is RM10 per room per night; confirm the charge with your hotel.
- Registered taxable hotel accommodation is subject to 8% service tax, and tips are voluntary.
Near Penang
Straight-line distance from the centre of Penang.
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Getaways from Penang
Places people from Penang travel to, from our own travel research.
Frequently asked questions about Penang
How do I get to Penang from Kuala Lumpur?
Take the ETS train from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth, then take the ferry to Penang Island. The train takes about 4.5 hours, and the ferry carries passengers and vehicles.
What is the nearest airport for Penang?
The airport name and its connection to the city are useful details to confirm while planning your arrival.
How do visitors get around Penang?
Use the free CAT bus in George Town, Rapid Penang buses around the island, taxis or e-hailing. CAT runs between Weld Quay Jetty and KOMTAR every 15 minutes from 6:00 am until midnight.
Where should first-time visitors stay in Penang?
Stay in George Town for heritage sights, food and the central CAT bus. Batu Ferringhi suits a beach-focused trip, while Tanjung Bungah offers a quieter seaside base.
Where should families stay in Penang?
George Town is handy for The TOP Komtar and heritage sights, while Batu Ferringhi puts families near beach resorts and leisure activities. Teluk Bahang is a base for nearby outdoor attractions.
Where should I stay for nightlife in Penang?
Choose George Town for evening food streets and walks, or Batu Ferringhi for its night bazaar. Gurney Drive is another evening option for hawker food.
Where can I find halal food in Penang?
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre has separate halal and non-halal sections. The Penang street-food map also marks Muslim and halal outlets.
Can visitors enter mosques and temples in Penang?
Visitors can visit Kapitan Keling Mosque during its suggested daytime windows, and suitable clothing is available there. Penang’s heritage area also has active mosques and Chinese and Indian temples.
What should I wear when visiting a mosque in Penang?
Wear suitable, modest clothing when visiting a mosque. Kapitan Keling Mosque has suitable clothing available for visitors.
What taxes are added to a Penang hotel bill?
Non-Malaysian guests pay tourism tax of RM10 per room per night, and registered taxable hotel accommodation is subject to 8% service tax. Confirm the tourism tax charge with your hotel.
Do I need to tip in Penang?
Tips are voluntary in Penang. Check the bill for a service charge; a voluntary tip is different from a mandatory service charge.
Do I need to complete an arrival card for Malaysia?
Foreign visitors generally need to submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card within the three days before arrival. Some traveller categories are exempt, so check current Immigration guidance for your circumstances.
When is the rainiest time to visit Penang?
September to November are the wettest months in the year-round monthly figures. October averages about 380 mm of rain, and temperatures stay hot throughout the year.
Where can I shop in Penang?
Browse Little India and Campbell Street for small goods, or visit Chowrasta Bazaar for local products. Batu Ferringhi’s evening market has souvenirs, T-shirts, handbags and accessories.
What can I do in Penang at night?
Eat along Chulia Street, visit the Gurney Drive Hawker Centre or browse the Batu Ferringhi Night Bazaar. For an evening walk, head to George Town’s seafront Esplanade.
What can children do in Penang?
Children can visit The TOP Komtar’s indoor attractions or spend the day at ESCAPE Penang’s adventure and water park. Entopia also offers daytime visits and evening sessions on selected days.
What are Penang’s well-known sights?
See George Town’s heritage streets, clan jetties and historic places of worship, then visit Kek Lok Si in Air Itam or take the funicular up Penang Hill. The Clan Jetties are about 1.8 kilometres from George Town city centre.
Where can I go for a day trip from George Town?
Take a trip to Penang Hill or head to Teluk Bahang for the national park, Entopia or ESCAPE Penang. Rapid Penang bus 204 serves the Penang Hill funicular station, and buses 101 and 102 stop outside the national park entrance.