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What should You Know about Penang Before Visiting it?

Known for its breadth of landscapes and wealth of activities, there are plenty of wonderful attractions and things to do in Penang. 'Epic' is the word that best describes Penang - from colonial architecture and heritage sights to ancient temples and mouth-watering delicacies, it has something for everyone. The state is home to shopping centers and neon-lit night markets, along with a wealth of budget and luxury hotels.

Location

Penang is a Malaysian state divided into two parts Seberang Perai, and Penang Island, where the capital city of George Town is located. They are linked to each other via 2 of the longest road bridges in the country.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore Penang is usually from November to January, when the weather is most pleasant. For those looking for a less busy holiday, the months of February to April are ideal, as tourists head back home after New Year festivities.

Is Penang Affordable?

Penang is a more budget-friendly option than the Malaysian capital of Kula Lumpur, including the cost of food and stay.

To make your trip easier on the pocket, book cheap flights to Penang on Trip.com, and check out affordable, all-inclusive day tours and packages to best explore.

Transportation

You can easily get around Penang, as it is accessible from most parts of the area. Buses are cheap and common modes of transportation - however, travelers prefer exploring the town on colorful bicycles and tuk-tuks, which are 3-wheeled local auto rickshaws.

Tip: While taxis are also frequently used, tourists are often overcharged. We recommend pre-booking private transfer services to avoid inconvenience.

Best Penang Attractions

Since there is so much on offer, we have listed down the 10 best Penang attractions, places to visit, and things to do.

Penang Attractions: The Habitat Penang Hill

The Habitat Penang Hill is a 130-million-year-old virgin rainforest, and the oldest British hill station in Asia.

Away from the city's rut, it allows you to connect with nature, and immerse in a refreshing and educational rainforest experience.

Witness its unique flora and fauna, and head on top of the hill to Penang Hill Nature Park, which is famous for thrilling nature trails, and canopy bridges.

Location: Jalan Stesen, Bukit Bendera Air Itam, 11500 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Penang Attractions: Fort Cornwallis

Fort Cornwallis is among the most visited Penang attractions, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in George Town. It was built in the late half of the 18th century by the British East India Company, and remains the largest standing fort in the country.

Learn about its age-soaked prison cells, marvel at stunning chapels, and stroll around lush green lawns.

Location: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Penang Attractions: Clan Jetties Floating Village

Clan Jetties Floating Village is one of the busy yet scenic attractions in Penang. You'll find rainbow-colored, rustic houses floating on water. A unique and historical site, it was built by Chinese settlers in the late 19th century, and is since then considered a reminder of the Chinese industries that helped Penang grow.

Location: Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Recommended hotels near Clan Jetties Floating Village: Victoria Garden Hotel

Penang Attractions: Day tours at George Town

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town is a growing port town, well-known for its vibrant streets, open-air cafés, and fusion of Asian-West culture. Expect impressive street art, unique shrines, and a host of historical spots that are among the best Penang attractions.

Location: Various

Penang Attractions: Batu Ferringhi Night Market

(Source: Job Savelsberg/unsplash)

Penang is home to some of the liveliest and exciting night markets. From dining and bar-hopping to late-night shopping, it has a myriad of options for every type of traveler.

Batu Ferringhi Night Market boasts over 100 stalls and runs daily till midnight. Shop for souvenirs and handmade artifacts, while you savor delicacies such as Assam Laksa and spicy rice noodles.

Location: Jalan Batu Bukit 2, Tanjung Tokong, 11100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Recommended hotels near Batu Ferringhi Night Market: Nida Rooms Batu Ferringhi Night Market

Penang Attractions: Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si is one of the biggest and most important Chinese Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. It features a seven-tiered pagoda, and more than 10,000 Buddha statues, including a 121 feet tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin.

Location: Pekan Ayer Itam, 11500 Air Itam

Penang Attractions: Butterfly Farm

Entopia is one of the largest butterfly farms, and home to more than 15,000 beautiful butterflies. It also hosts turtles, iguanas, and a range of live insects.

Entopia conducts special events, and interactive workshops throughout the day. Kids will especially love exploring tiny caves, and running on lush gardens.

Location: Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang

Penang Attractions: Penang Botanic Gardens

This impressive botanical garden sprawls over 72 acres, and was built in 1884. It is also known as "Waterfall Gardens," since there is a cascading waterfall nearby (however, not inside).

You'll be fascinated by its range of special tropical plants and herb gardens. Make sure to also keep a close eye for long-tailed macaque monkeys, and giant squirrels.

Location: Kompleks Pentadbiran, Bangunan Pavilion, Jalan Kebun Bunga,10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Penang Attractions: ESCAPE Theme Park

Visit ESCAPE Theme Park for a day of outdoor fun. Located half an hour away from Georgetown, it has a contemporary theme park setting with a backdrop of Malaysia's sweeping natural environment.

It features over 30 thrilling activities including ziplining and water slides, along with other rides and games.

Location: 828, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang

Penang Attractions: The TOP Penang

The TOP Penang is a gigantic theme park, which features a glass skywalk from where you can catch panoramic views of the city. It is set 816 feet (250m) above the ground, on the 68th floor.

Make sure to also check out Tech Dome, which houses over 120 interactive science and tech exhibits.

Location: 1, Jln Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Finally, to make the most of your time here, we recommend staying at hotels that are not too far from your favorite sightseeing spots, and Penang attractions. Trip.com recommends Shangri-La Golden Sands, Wifi Boutique Hotel, and NEO+ Penang.

FAQ about Penang Attractions