If you’re after the best things to do in Penang, we’ve got you covered!
Penang is the sort of place that takes you completely by surprise. It’s a unique combination of a sleepy seaside town, and yet is bustling with life. There are so many things to do in Penang you could spend a week here and not get bored.
From exploring George Town’s colourful murals to tasting mouth-watering Penang street food, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a short stay or a full Penang itinerary, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you busy.
The most famous and fun things to do in George Town is to explore its colourful street art. The city is covered in fun murals, many of which are interactive. One of the best thing to do in Penang is to wander the streets of George Town, seeing how many different street murals you can find. And, of course, posing with them too!
Our favourite street art spots were:
Kids on bicycle
Grand Swiss Hotel – there are several really fun ones down here!
Brother and sister on a swing
Children playing basketball
Beacon of hope mural – a vibrant tribute to the firefighters of Penang.
Tip – Search “Penang Street Art” on Google Maps to find all the locations!
2. Visit The Clan Jetties
Stretching along George Town’s sea front are several jetties, known as the Clan Jetties. These jetties have houses, shops, restaurants, and even temples built on them.
Each jetty was traditionally home to a different family, or clan, of Chinese fisherman. Today, many families still live on these wooden jetties over the sea.
The most famous clan jetty is Chew Jetty, with many souvenir shops dotted along. However, for a more peacefu visit, head to Tan Jetty. Each jetty is completely unique, and they’re all worth seeing. Just remember to be respectful to the people still calling the jetties home.
We discovered the Esplanade Walkway completely by chance on an evening run. This part of George Town is little-visited by tourists, but popular amongst locals. In the evenings, the area comes to life with families flying kites, a vibrant food court, and friends out for an evening stroll. It also offers amazing views over the sea and Butterworth beyond.
Tip – Visit the Esplanade Walkway in the evening to immerse yourself in the joyful local life.
4. Visit Penang Central Fire Station
We absolutely loved Penang Central Fire Station. This bright white and red building was the first fire station in Malaysia. Not only does it make a fantastic photo spot, it is also home to a small but interesting museum.
The whole of the right side of the fire station is a museum showcasing the different uniforms over the years, as well as photographs of rescues and different equipment they use.
The left side of the fire station is where the fire engine and motorbikes are. We met a friendly firefighter whilst visiting and he even let Nat sit in the fire engine and on the motorbike for a photo! This was one of our favourite things to do in George Town.
5. Stroll Through Little India
Located in the heart of George Town is Little India. George Town is a melting pot of different cultures, and this is shown beautifully through Little India.
Strolling through the streets, you’ll see shops selling traditional clothing, adorned with flowers trailing from the canopy outside. The air is filled with the rich scent of spices, and the street food stands are world-famous.
Whilst there is not much to do there, it’s a fun place to stroll through.
Tip – Head to D’Sakra Restaurant for the best Indian food in Penang.
6. Visit Kapitan Keling Mosque
A little further down the street from Little India is Kapitan Keling Mosque. This serves as the perfect example of the harmony present in Penang. This is one of the largest and oldest mosques in George Town, built in 1800.
Unfortunately, when we visited, the mosque was closed to visitors due to renovations. However, it is still beautiful from the outside, surrounded by green gardens.
Under normal circumstances, the mosque is open to non-muslims between 1-5pm, though you cannot enter the prayer hall. The mosque provides robes for women to wear and sarongs for men, in order to make sure you are dressed respectfully.
7. See The Beautiful Sri Mahamariamman Temple
Along the road from Kapitan Keling Mosque, on the edge of Little India, is the Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple. This brightly coloured temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang.
Like many Hindu temples, the outside is made up of the many Hindu deities, expertly crafted into a pyramid shape over the entrance. The detail is incredible.
The temple is free to enter, and is open to tourists in the mornings only. You must remove your shoes and hat to enter, before you climb the stairs. It is also worth noting that photography and videography are not allowed inside the temple.
8. Spend The Morning Exploring Hin Bus Depot
Hin Bus Depot is another of our favourite places in George Town, Penang. Every weekend, this old bus depot is transformed into a creative space. It has the most beautiful market, filled with handmade goods from creatives across Penang.
On one side is a flea market where you can buy high-quality second-hand clothes. On the other is the market. In the middle is an open grassy space with chairs and benches for you to relax and absorb the atmosphere. There is also live music to enjoy.
Within the market, you can also find many specialty food and drink stands. I had the most amazing coffee there.
If you’re visiting Penang on a weekend, make sure to swing by.
9. Shop At Jetty 35
Jetty 35 offers a similar eclectic style to Hin Bus depot, minus the live music. It is open every day, and is home to a variety of boutique shops and cafés.
Just outside is some of the most famous street art in Penang, so crowds tend to gather there. However, not many people head inside to explore. We loved it in there. It’s such a creative place where you can buy really beautiful souvenirs or relax with a specialty drink.
10. Admire The Views At Hean Boo Thean Temple
Hean Boo Thean Temple is one we’ve not seen on many Penang itineraries, however it is such a beautiful and unique temple. Built on stilts over the sea, and visible from the clan jetties, Hean Boo Thean is beautiful. This temple is built over two layers, offering stunning views over the jetties, sea, and Butterworth beyond.
The temple itself is also very beautiful, painted in bright red and yellow, with lanterns strung over the top. It is free to enter, though consider leaving a donation for the upkeep of the temple.
11. Learn More About The History Of George Town
George Town is one of the oldest cities in Malaysia, with hundreds of years of history crammed into the historic center. The best way to discover the history of George Town is by strolling the historic streets. This can help you to understand more of the history of George Town, its people, and the mix of cultures you can find today.
The best way to do this is on a private tour. It will take you around half a day, but you will come away with so much fascinating knowledge. Plus, you’ve got a local guide you can ask any questions that crop up.
The Peranakan Heritage Mansion is one of the best cultural attractions in George Town. This beautifully restored townhouse once belonged to a wealthy Peranakan family and now serves as a museum. Inside, you’ll find antique furniture, jewellery, clothing, and ceramics that showcase the fascinating blend of Chinese and Malay cultures.
13. Taste Local Delicacies On A Street Food Tour
George Town is famous worldwide for its incredible street food. This is some of the best street food in the world, with many stalls making it into the Michelin Guide. The best way to discover the street food of Penang is on a tour. A local guide will take you to all the best spots and you can sample all of the local delicacies.
One of our favourite street food stalls has to be Penang Famous Samosa. We got lunch from here so many times. It is so good, and is only around 1-3 ringgit per item which is insanely cheap.
Note – This tour is not recommended for vegetarians, however there are plenty of veggie spots for you to do your own DIY tour if you wish.
14. Check Out the Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion
Known as the Blue Mansion, this striking indigo building is one of George Town’s most photographed landmarks. Built in the late 19th century by Chinese businessman Cheong Fatt Tze, it combines Eastern and Western design influences.
You can explore the mansion either by staying overnight in one of the boutique hotel rooms or by joining a guided tour. The tours dive into the history of Cheong Fatt Tze’s fascinating life and explain the significance of the architecture and feng shui principles. Even if you just admire it from the outside, the Blue Mansion is a must-see in Penang.
15. Enjoy The Coffee Scene In George Town
Did you know, George Town has a buzzing coffee scene? That’s right! One thing you have to do in Penang is wander the streets of George Town, popping into some of the cutest cafés in Malaysia.
Malaysia has some very unique coffees that you have to try. In fact, it’s almost like a secret code that once you know, you’ll regularly be ordering a kopi o instead of an americano.
Whilst the ‘Instagram cafe’s’ are seriously good, make sure to also head to a local stall to try an authentic kopi o or kopi c. This is the best place to get them!
Order Coffee Like A Local!
Kopi C = Coffee with sugar and evaporated milk
Kopi O = Black coffee with sugar
Kopi O Kosong = Black coffee without sugar
16. Explore Museums in George Town
If you love uncovering the stories behind a destination, George Town has some of the best museums in Penang. From the quirky Wonderfood Museum to the interactive Penang 3D Trick Art Museum, there’s something for every curiosity.
The Penang State Museum is also worth a visit for its exhibits on local culture and colonial history. These museums give you a deeper understanding of what makes Penang so unique and are perfect for a break from the afternoon heat or rain.
17. Take a Trishaw Ride Around George Town
One of the best ways to explore George Town is on a trishaw! This is a fun and unique way to get around town, see the famous street art, and all the major attractions.
The trishaws are decorated with colourful spinners, fairy lights, and various other bits and bobs. The drivers also act as your personal tour guide, and are great at telling you a little about George Town and the things that you’re seeing. They also act as your personal photographers! At various points around the city, the driver will jump off their bike, and take beautiful shots of you either with the street art or in the trishaw. And trust me when I say they go to all sorts of lengths to get the perfect shot.
Outdoor Adventures In Penang
Whilst Penang is primarily known for beautiful George Town, there are no shortage of outdoor things to do. In fact, it was Penang’s natural beauty that we loved most.
18. Visit Penang Hill For Stunning Views
Penang Hill is located just a short 30-minute drive from George Town, and was one of our favourite things to do on the island. A funicular will take you to the top of the tallest hill on the island, where you will have spectacular views over the island, the sea, and George Town below.
There are various activities you can do on Penang Hill, including wildlife watching, a Hindu temple, nature walks, and even a toy museum. You can also stay on the hill, and there are restaurants and souvenir shops for your convenience. Make sure to keep an eye out for the resident Dusky Leaf Monkeys!
19. Watch For Wildlife At The Habitat, Penang Hill
Located at the top of Penang Hill, The Habitat offers the most accessible rainforest experience in Malaysia. It is home to the longest twin-span stressed ribbon bridge in the world, suspended up to 40m from the rainforest floor. From here, you can see so much wildlife, including flying lemurs, monkeys, tropical birds, snakes, and insects.
You can also scale the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk, offering stunning views. This is the highest publicly accessible viewing platform in the whole of Penang, 815m above sea level.
The whole Habitat trail is only 1.6km, but can take anywhere from 1hr30 to 3hrs to complete, depending on how long you spend watching for wildlife.
In our opinion, Penang National Park is the best thing to do in Penang. Located on the far north-western tip of the island, this is the smallest national park in the world. It is absolutely stunning, with lush green rainforest spilling out over white sand beaches.
There are several places to go in Penang National Park, and things to do for everyone. The most popular thing to do here is to hike. We highly recommend the hike to Kerachut Beach, which ends on the most beautiful beach.
If hiking isn’t for you, you can also catch a boat to any of the beaches – Kerachut and Monkey Beaches are most popular, but you cannot swim at Kerachut Beach.
It is also a great place for wildlife watching. We saw monitor lizards, long-tailed macaques, silver leaf monkeys, and even sea otters.
21. See Penang National Park’s Unique Natural Wonder
At one end of Kerachut Beach in Penang National Park is a rare natural phenomenon that only occurs in a few places in the world. This is a meromictic lake. This phenomenon occurs when two different desnities of water (in this case the salt water and fresh river water) do not mix, forming two distinct layers.
It is absolutely beautiful, with the water as still as glass, perfectly reflecting the rainforest around.
Cultural & Historical Attractions In Penang
Penang is one of the oldest places in Malaysia, and was once a busy trading port attracting people from around the world. This means that there are plenty of historical sites to explore, and influences from around the world inckuding different religions and cultures.
22. Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si is one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Spread over 7 stories, this place is huge. It is also absolutely beautiful, painted in bright shades of red, yellow, and blue throughout.
You can easily spend half a day exploring the beautiful complex. In fact, we loved it so much we visited twice! There are stunning views from the pagodas over George Town and across the sea. This would make a great place to combine with Penang Hill.
Step back in time at Fort Cornwallis, the largest standing fort in Malaysia. Built by the British East India Company in the late 1700s, it’s one of the most significant historical attractions in Penang.
You can still see the old cannons, barracks, and a small chapel inside the fort walls. It’s a quick but interesting stop if you’re exploring George Town and want to learn about the island’s colonial past.
24. Discover the Sacred Khoo Kongsi Clan House
The Khoo Kongsi Clan House is one of the most impressive clan temples in Malaysia and an essential stop in George Town. Built by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century, its detailed carvings and ornate roof design are absolutely stunning. The temple’s courtyard and museum tell the story of Penang’s Chinese heritage and the families who helped shape the island’s history.
25. Experience The Local Life At Air Itam Market
If you want a real taste of everyday Penang life, Air Itam Market is the place to go. Located near the base of Penang Hill, this bustling local market starts early in the morning and is packed with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to handmade snacks and street food.
It’s noisy, chaotic, and completely authentic. It’s exactly the kind of spot where you get to see Penang at its most genuine. You’ll find locals chatting over coffee, stalls piled high with tropical fruits, and the smell of freshly cooked noodles wafting through the air.
Tip – Go early (around 8–9 am) to catch the market at its liveliest and avoid the midday heat.
More Fun Things To Do In Penang If You Have Extra Time
Penang Island is so full of things to do, we personally couldn’t fit them all into our itinerary! Here are 6 additional things we think are worth doing, based on extensive research, other traveller’s stories, and local insights.
Discover the Tropical Spice Garden – Wander through lush rainforest paths surrounded by over 500 species of tropical plants and spices. You can even join a cooking class overlooking the sea.
Relax at Penang Botanic Gardens – A peaceful green escape at the base of Penang Hill, perfect for early morning walks among orchids and long-tailed macaques.
Visit the Penang Tropical Fruit Farm – Learn about (and taste!) hundreds of tropical fruits, from durians to dragon fruit, all grown on-site in the hills of Teluk Bahang. Click HERE To Book
Get Close to Nature at Entopia (Penang Butterfly Farm) – Step inside a tropical dome filled with thousands of butterflies and exotic insects — one of the most family-friendly things to do in Penang. Click HERE To Book
Escape the City at Batu Ferringhi Beach – Chill by the sea, try out some water sports, or browse the lively night market that comes alive after sunset.
Tour the Penang War Museum – Explore tunnels and bunkers from World War II at this fascinating (and slightly eerie) hilltop museum in Bukit Batu Maung.
Where To Stay In Penang
Penang is a big island, therefore its important to choose the correct area to stay in order to make the most of your time. We would recommend staying in George Town, as this will give you the best access to all the main attractions and things to do.
We stayed at Sleep Box for 10 days and highly recommend it for a budget stay. The rooms are small but clean and comfortable. The shared bathrooms were always immaculate and never busy. The staff were wonderful, and there was a free water cooler to refill your bottles. Plus, the location is right in the heart of George Town, and near to several bus stop to take you around the island.
Royale Chulan is located closer to the jetties, making it perfect for exploring George Town. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, with luxurious-looking decor. It also has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, and an onsite restaurant for guests to use.
The George is one of the best hotels in Penang. Located in the centre of George Town, this hotel is luxurious from the outside in. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, there is a fantastic onsite restaurant, as well as both outdoor and indoor pools.
Before you start ticking off all the incredible things to do in Penang, it’s worth knowing a few practical details to help your trip run smoothly. Whether you’re planning a short weekend or a longer stay, these travel tips will make exploring the island much easier.
Penang in rainy season
Also Penang in rainy season!
Best Time to Visit Penang
Penang is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is dry, warm, and sunny.
The rainy season runs from May to November, but showers are usually short and refreshing rather than constant downpours. Travelling in this period can actually be a great idea if you prefer fewer crowds and lower hotel prices.
If you love festivals, time your visit around Chinese New Year or Thaipusam, when Penang bursts into colour and celebration. Just make sure to book accommodation early, as it’s one of the island’s busiest times.
Getting Around Penang
Getting around Penang is easy and affordable, whether you prefer public transport, taxis, or a bit of adventure on your own.
Public Buses
The Rapid Penang buses cover most major routes, including the airport, George Town, and Batu Ferringhi. They’re cheap and reliable, though a little slow during rush hour. We regularly travelled by bus throughout Penang with no issues
You can also hop on the CAT (Central Area Transit) bus, which is free and great for exploring George Town’s main attractions.
Tip – Make sure you have the exact cash as no change is given
Car Rental
If you want more flexibility, hiring a car can be a good option, especially if you plan to explore places like Balik Pulau or Penang National Park. We recommend comparing options through Discover Cars or Trip.com to find the best rates.
Trishaws
For a slower and more charming way to see George Town, take a trishaw ride. It’s a bit touristy, but still a fun experience — your driver will point out local landmarks and hidden corners you might otherwise miss.
Grab (Ride-Hailing)
Penang doesn’t have Uber, but Grab is the go-to for getting around quickly. It’s safe, easy to use, and often cheaper than taxis. We never had any issues getting a Grab.
Wrap Up
Penang is one of those destinations that truly has it all, from vibrant street art in George Town to peaceful beaches and unforgettable food. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, you’ll never run out of things to do in Penang.
It’s an island that blends culture, history, and nature so effortlessly that it’s easy to see why travellers fall in love with it. We can’t wait to go back and keep discovering more of what makes Penang so special.
Megan Hocking is one half of The Endless Travellers. With her partner, Nat, she aims to uncover beautiful destinations around the world that you need to add to your bucketlist, whether you've heard of them before or not. By providing you with informative guides blended with personal experience and years of travel expertise, Megan hopes to inspire you to book your next trip to your dream destination. When she isn't writing blog posts about her favourite destinations, you can find her behind a camera, capturing all the most beautiful angles of all the places she visits.
