Penang holidays deserve a top spot on anyone’s Asia travel list. This vibrant port city, especially George Town, delivers old-world Asian charm by the boatload. Wander through colourful Chinese shophouses, visit Taoist temples, and spend an afternoon in botanical gardens. All while tucking into one of the best food scenes in South East Asia.
And when you’re not soaking up Penang’s vibrant street life, you’ve got soft sand beaches and jungle-clad hills to explore.
Best Things to Do in Penang
Discover some top things to do in Penang.
Heritage and Culture:
- George Town: Explore the vibrant streets of this UNESCO town. It's full of visual drama. Top tip: Grab a map and do a street art hunt.
- Khoo Kongsi: Don't miss this ornate Chinese clan house - it's a slice of Penang's rich culture. If you go early you’ll dodge most of the crowds and get the best photos.
- Pinang Peranakan Mansion: This ostentatious mansion is brimming with opulent antiques from the Straits Chinese era. Visit the Jewellery Museum attached for vintage bling.
Natural Attractions:
- Penang Hill: Hop on the funicular railway for panoramic views of Penang Island. You can book ahead to avoid queuing.
- Penang National Park: Catch the 101 bus from George Town, then follow jungle trails to secluded beaches. You might even spot flying lemurs, leaf monkeys and leopard cats.
- Botanical Gardens: Relax in tropical gardens, with free-roaming monkeys. But keep your snacks close - they love to steal.
Beachfront Bliss:
- Batu Ferringhi: Lounge on the sand, dive into watersports and tuck into lip-smacking street food at the Night Market.
- Tanjung Bungah: Known for its serene beaches and luxury resorts, perfect for some much-needed tranquillity. Don’t miss the floating mosque.
- Teluk Bahang: Another quiet beach with lush scenery and a laid-back atmosphere.
Shopping in Penang
Penang is a shopping paradise, offering everything from bustling markets to modern malls.
- Queensbay Mall: The biggest mall in Penang, packed with shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
- Little India: Vibrant markets with spices, textiles, and traditional Indian goods.
- Penang Street Market: Every weekend, this market buzzes with awesome crafts and tasty street food.
Where to Eat and Drink in Penang
Penang’s food scene is legendary - a real foodie paradise.
Iconic Dishes: Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried flat noodles with prawns, eggs, and bean sprouts.
Penang Laksa: Tangy, spicy noodle soup with mackerel fish and tamarind. Nasi Kandar: Rice with a mix of curries and sides.
Street Food: Gurney Drive offers local delicacies, while New Lane Hawker Centre is a bustling night market with a wide range of street food.
Restaurants and Cafés: China House in George Town is the spot for tasty cakes and pastries in cosy surroundings. Ferringhi Garden serves up local and global dishes amid lush greenery. And the Mugshot Café has killer bagels and great coffee.
Nightlife in Penang
Penang's nightlife is buzzing with cool bars, lively clubs and bustling night markets.
Upper Penang Road: The hip heart of George Town’s nightlife with the liveliest karaoke joints, bars and clubs.
Hin Bus Depot: A cultural and artistic hub with live music events, art exhibitions, and weekend markets.
Batu Ferringhi Night Market: Shop for souvenirs, munch on traditional snacks, and soak up the local culture.
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