Penang is a major Malaysian island that’s more than just a holiday destination. And you’ll find incredible and unique places in Penang to go shopping, have delicious food, and photograph some impressive landscapes.
If you’re looking for an amazing and affordable travel destination, Penang, Malaysia, should be at the top of your list. Penang has something for everyone with its rich culture and history, stunning natural scenery, and delicious food. Of course, you’ve heard of Penang Hill, but there’s so much more going on here.
This is your ultimate guide to the unique places in Penang, I’ll give a few of the many reasons to visit and everything in between you have to know. Let’s get started!
Unique Places to Visit in Penang – Overview
If you’re looking for an amazing travel destination that offers a little bit of everything, Penang is the place for you. With stunning beaches, delicious food, and rich culture, Penang Island has something to offer everyone. Here are just a few of the places you won’t want to miss.
Where is Penang?
Penang is a vibrant island state in Malaysia, located in the Strait of Malacca. It’s a unique blend of cultures, known for its stunning coasts and bustling Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With a mix of modernity and tradition, Penang is famous for its rich history, incredible street food, and friendly locals.
How to Get to Penang?
Getting to Penang is pretty straightforward. Fly into Penang International Airport, which connects to major cities worldwide. From there, taxis or buses will take you around the island.
If you’re already in Malaysia, you can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur, which is cheap and only takes about 5 hours. It’s an easy and scenic journey that adds to the adventure.
Best Time to Visit Penang
The best time to visit Penang is between November and January, when the weather is just right – not too hot and less rainy. It’s perfect for exploring the island’s outdoor beauty and colorful streets.
Best-Rated Tour
Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing Tour
- Enjoy the day with an expert guide!
- See the most famous spots in 1 day
- Best and affordable way to visit Penang
Includes
- Fun guide full of stories
- Hotel transfers and entrance fees
- Countless memories to be made!
15 Interesting Places in Penang
Now that you have a little more information about Penang as a whole, let’s get into the main topic and discover the best places in Penang, from Penang Hill to the stunning temples and more.
Penang is one of the most unique places in Southeast Asia, and I’m confident you’ll have a great time in town.
Discover Penang Hill
Penang Hill is a hill located in the heart of Penang, Malaysia. The peak of this hill reaches 421 meters or 1,384 feet.
You can get there by cable car ride from the base station situated at Lebuh Queen. The cable car is at a height of 800 meters and takes 7 minutes to reach the top. And the 7 min ride is just an adventure in itself.
The peak is also accessible by road with a motor car or jeep. The ride up to the peak has many hairpin bends which offer scenic views of George Town, Esplanade, and Straits of Malacca.
Once you’re at the top, you’ll find the famous Habitat Penang Hill (read below), different cafes, an owl museum, a restaurant, and many viewpoints to take beautiful photos!
The first funicular train starts at 6.30 am and the last one runs at 11.00 pm, which gives you plenty of time to visit during the day. On the other hand, the ticket counter opens at 6.15 am, so keep that in mind.
Lastly, the best way to visit is to join a sightseeing tour in Penang, which includes skip-the-line tickets, hotel transfers, and also a tour around the nicest temples in town.
💶 Entrance Fee: 30 RM for regular tickets / 80 RM for Fast Lane
🕗 Opening Hours: 6.30 AM to 11.00 PM
👨🏻 Available Guided Tour: Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing
Discover the Habitat Penang Hill
Going to the Habitat on Penang Hill is like walking into a beautiful, green forest. It’s up high on a hill and lets you see lots of plants and animals.
There’s a special path in the trees that you can walk on to see the forest from up high. The best part is the big walkway above the trees where you can see all around the island.
It’s a fun and peaceful place, great for anyone who likes nature and wants to relax. If you have more time available in town, then going to the Habitat in Penang Hill is definitely a must!
Note: The funicular train is not included in the ticket, so you’ll have to buy it separately on their website or when visiting.
💶 Entrance Fee: 60 MYR (Cheaper when booking on Klook)
🕗 Opening Hours: 9.00 AM to 7.00 PM
👨🏻 Available Tickets: The Habitat Penang Hill Ticket
Escape Theme Park
Escape Theme Park in Penang is an exciting place to visit for the whole family. With over 30 rides and attractions, there is something for everyone. The park is also home to Malaysia’s first roller coaster – the Dragon Coaster.
With exciting attractions like zip-lining, climbing through obstacle courses, and a water park, there’s something for everyone. The park focuses on physical activity and rediscovering the joy of outdoor play.
It’s not just about rides; it’s about challenging yourself and having fun in the fresh air. The park is perfect for families, friends, and adventure-seekers looking for a day of fun in a natural setting. Can you think of more fun places to visit in Penang?
It’s worth noting that the Escape theme park is very popular and I recommend booking your tickets as soon as possible to secure your spot.
💶 Entrance Fee: 171 MYR
🕗 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM
👨🏻 Available Tickets: Escape Theme Park Tickets
Penang National Park
Penang National Park is located in the northwest of Penang Island and covers an area of 1,213 hectares. It was gazetted as a national park on 1st March 2003. The park consists of sandy beaches, rocky coastlines, hiking trails, and lush forests.
There are also a few small islands off the coast of the park which can be reached by boat.
The most popular beach in the park is Monkey Beach, where you can see wild monkeys swinging from tree to tree. Other popular activities in the park include hiking, bird watching, and picnicking.
💶 Entrance Fee: Free
🕗 Opening Hours: 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM
Spend the Afternoon at Monkey Beach
Located in the Penang National Park, Monkey Beach is one of the most popular destinations on the island.
Monkey Beach gets its name from the long-tailed macaques that can often be seen hanging out in the trees or playing in the water, and I’m sure you’ll have a nice time taking photos and spotting them.
That said, when coming, make sure not to leave any food hanging around, as the monkeys are not shy about stealing a snack! In addition to its namesake primates, Monkey Beach is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including reptiles, birds, and small mammals.
The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun is not too strong. However, even if you don’t see any monkeys, spending a few hours relaxing on this beautiful beach is still an experience you’ll love.
💶 Entrance Fee: Free
🕗 Opening Hours: 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM
Batu Ferringhi Beach
Located just about 11km from downtown George Town, Batu Ferringhi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Penang, Malaysia.
The long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the various water sports on offer.
There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants where you can relax with a refreshing drink or bite to eat. If you’re looking for some adventure, you can try your hand at jet-skiing, parasailing, or kayaking.
Or, if you prefer something a little more relaxing, you can take a stroll along the boardwalk, go for a massage at one of the many spas, or simply enjoy the stunning views.
If you plan to stay longer, make sure to check out the Batu Ferringhi night market, which isn’t far and has lots of food!
Discover Penang’s Tropical Spice Garden
If you’re looking for a peaceful and beautiful oasis in the middle of bustling Penang, then look no further.
The Tropical Spice Garden is home to over 500 species of flora and fauna from all around Southeast Asia as well as an outdoor cafe that overlooks the Straits Malacca – perfect scenery with your favorite drink!
The Tropical Spice Garden is Southeast Asia’s first of its kind botanical garden, and it houses over 500 species of plant life. It also has an outdoor cafe where visitors can relax while admiring the Straits of Malacca from above!
💶 Entrance Fee: 28 MYR or 48 MYR with a guide (Cheaper when booking on Klook)
🕗 Opening Hours: 9.00 AM to 4.00 PM (and 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM on weekends)
👨🏻 Available Tickets: The Tropical Spice Garden Ticket
Go on a Day Trip to George Town
Looking for an exciting day trip destination? Why not check out George Town? This vibrant city is filled with amazing architecture, delicious food, and friendly locals. Plus, it’s easy to get to from Kuala Lumpur – just hop on a bus or train and you’ll be there in no time.
Once you arrive in George Town, make sure to explore the historic district and wander through the narrow streets and admire the colonial-style buildings. Then, head to one of the many temples or mosques to learn about the city’s rich religious history.
Of course, no visit to George Town would be complete without trying some of the delicious street food. From crispy fish balls to refreshing coconut water, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
You can also wonder around and find some cool street around here and there, which is a nice addition.
And lastly, let’s not forget the cafes in Penang – modern, sleek, and with delicious coffee, what else do you need on vacation?
Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! You can explore George Town on your own if you have the time available. But in case you have only a few days, make sure to sign up for this 4-hour tour, which is not only comprehensive but also cheap with a fun guide!
Penang Butterfly Farm
Entopia is a destination for families, schools, and friends who are looking to learn more about our natural world. There are 2 sections of Entopia: The Natureland (living outdoor garden) and The Cocoon (indoor discovery center).
In the NatureLand section, you can find numerous animal species in their re-created habitats such as invertebrates or small reptiles.
It’s also home to the largest butterfly farm in Malaysia! If that isn’t enough there are plenty of hands-on fun activities waiting inside at Entopia’s indoor learning center -The Cocoon-.
From educational stations with interactive games through 3D displays on life cycles from eggs to butterflies…there’ll be something interesting for everyone along the way. Come explore your own personal jungle.
💶 Entrance Fee: 75 MYR (Cheaper on Klook)
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 AM to 5.00 PM
👨🏻 Available Tickets: Penang Butterfly Farm Ticket
Penang Botanical Gardens
Situated on a sprawling 28 hectares of land in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Penang, the Penang Botanic Gardens is a must-visit for any nature lover.
Founded in 1884 by the British colonial government, the gardens feature an impressive collection of native and exotic plants, as well as a variety of trees and shrubs.
The garden’s defining feature is its striking Orchid Garden, which is home to over 60 species of orchids. The gardens also have a dispensary, herbarium, and library, making it a popular spot for research and education.
In addition to its beautiful plants and flowers, the gardens are also home to a number of birds and animals, making it a magical place to explore.
All in all, it doesn’t matter if you’re interested in botany or just looking for a relaxing place to enjoy nature, the Penang Botanical Gardens is sure to please.
💶 Entrance Fee: Free
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 6.30 AM to 7.00 PM
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is one of the most interesting and unique buildings in Penang, Malaysia. Built in the early 1800s, it was once the home of a wealthy merchant family.
Today, it serves as a museum and provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Peranakan people. The mansion is full of beautiful antiques and artwork, and its grounds are lush and green.
You can also enjoy traditional Peranakan cuisine at the on-site restaurant. The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a must-see and one of the top Penang attractions that you should include in your itinerary.
💶 Entrance Fee: 20 MYR
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 9.30 AM to 5.00 PM
Explore the Different Temples
Penang is a state in Malaysia that is home to a rich history and culture. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Penang is the numerous temples that can be found around the state. These temples are not only beautiful, but they also offer a glimpse into the unique beliefs and practices of the local people.
One of the most well-known temples in Penang is the Kek Lok Si Temple, which is located in George Town. This temple is especially popular with tourists due to its unique architecture, which combines Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences.
You can also enjoy stunning views of the city from atop the temple’s seven-story pagoda.
Another popular temple in Penang is Wat Chayamangkalaram, which is located in Butterworth. This temple is known for its 33-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in Southeast Asia.
Then, can also explore the extensive complex, which features a museum, botanical gardens, and an auditorium.
Whether you are interested in history, religion, or simply want to admire some beautiful architecture, be sure to add a visit to one of Penang’s best temples below to your itinerary.
As mentioned previously, the best way to visit both Kek Lok Si Temple and Penang Hill is to sign up for the tour here below, which covers both, and the entrance fees too!
Best Temples in Penang, Malaysia
- Kek Lok Si Temple
- Snake Temple – Chor Soo Kong
- Goddess of Mercy Temple Penang
- The Thai Temple – Wat Chayamangkalaram
- Sri Mahamariamman Temple – The Oldest Hindu Temple in Penang
The TOP Komtar Penang Skywalk
The TOP Komtar Penang Skywalk is one of the coolest places to check out in Penang! The skywalk is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the city, and it’s also a great place to people watch. There are also plenty of photo ops, so make sure to bring your camera.
At the Window of The Top, you can get an unparalleled 360-degree view and experience Penang’s urbanscapes from 249 meters up. For those who are more adventurous, there is also a glass walkway for that “walk on air” feeling called Rainbow SkyWalk!
You don’t want to miss The TOP Komtar either; the 65th level has a gravity obstacle rope course as well as hexagon-shaped platforms suspended over high benches into open space.
💶 Entrance Fee: 75 MYR (Cheaper on Klook)
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 AM to 7.00 PM
👨🏻 Available Tickets: TOP Komtar Penang Skywalk Ticket
Join a Delicious Food Tour
The city is most popular for its mouth-watering street food, and this is why the Penang International Food Festival is one of the best places in Penang to go.
I highly recommend planning your trip between Mid-April and the end of April to enjoy the best that the city has to offer.
The Penang International Food Festival is 16 days of delicious fun! You’ll be spoiled for choice with all the different foods on offer.
If you have a hard time deciding what to eat, don’t worry because there are plenty of options available at this festival, including traditional dishes and other international recipes from around the world.
And while you’re here, make sure to try Durian, one of the most delicious weird exotic fruits you could try here. Durian is grown in Penang and visitors from all around Asia come here to taste its deliciousness.
As well as being able to try some mouthwatering food, your guide will take you to hidden gems where only the locals go, so you can go back while you’re in town, and that is priceless!
I recommend the tour below, which has great reviews and the food is just delicious, and I guarantee you won’t regret going for it! Plus, you can request the guide to go to the night market (I recommen , which has plenty of street food!
Fort Cornwallis
💶 Entrance Fee: 20 MYR, includes water or beer
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 8.00 AM to 11.00 PM
Fort Cornwallis is a imposing granite fortress which dominates the Esplanade in Penang. The fort was built by the British East India Company in 1786 to protect Penang against enemy attacks, and it has played an important role in the history of both Penang and Malaysia.
Today, the fort is one of the island’s most popular tourist attractions, and it is well worth a visit if you are interested in learning more about the colonial history of Malaysia.
When you enter the fort, you will be able to explore the various buildings and learn about the different roles they played in the fort’s defence.
You will also be able to see some of the cannons that were used to defend the fort, and there is even a small museum inside the walls. If you are lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of one of the fort’s resident ghosts!
Tips for Traveling to Penang
Now that you know all the most unique places and things to do in Penang, let’s discuss some tips when traveling to Penang that you may find helpful.
Reasons to Visit Penang
There are plenty of other reasons to visit Penang and George Town, Malaysia, but these are some of the highlights. Whatever your interests may be, Penang is sure to have something amazing to offer on your trip to South East Asia.
Natural Beauty
Penang is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in all of Malaysia. The island is surrounded by pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rain forests. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re looking for a quiet beach to relax on or a thrilling adventure hike through the jungle.
Cultural Heritage
Penang is one of the most culturally rich places in Malaysia. The island is home to a mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures, each of which has left its mark on the island’s architecture, food, and traditions.
This unique cultural blend makes for an interesting and exciting visit for anyone interested in learning more about Southeast Asia.
Delicious Food
When you think of Penang, food is probably the first thing that comes to mind. After all, it’s difficult to go a day in this part of Malaysia without stopping for some traditional Malaysian cuisine.
Malaysian food is some of the best in the world, and Penang is a particularly great place to sample it, in addition to the street food in Kuala Lumpur. From street-side hawker stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for everyone when it comes to Malaysian cuisine. Be sure to try some of the famous dishes like roti canai, nasi lemak, and char kuey teow.
How Long Should You Stay in Penang?
I recommend staying in Penang for 3 to 5 days to scratch the surface and visit the best places to visit. This gives you enough time to explore the cultural sights of George Town, indulge in the famous street food, and relax on the beautiful beaches.
You can also venture to Penang Hill and the National Park for some nature, which is great, especially if you want some quiet time.
Where to Stay in Penang
Last but not least, let’s talk about the accommodation options in Penang and George Town, whether you travel on a budget or looking for a premium property.
Luxury: Eastern & Oriental Hotel
In Georgetown’s UNESCO site, this hotel offers heritage accommodations with modern amenities like free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and various dining options.
Its colonial-style suites are spacious with classic furnishings and large bathrooms. The hotel provides services like currency exchange and tour arrangements. Located near shopping centers and cultural attractions, it’s 20 km from Penang Airport.
Mid-Range: Gurney Lodge
Situated along Gurney Drive in George Town, this lodge offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. It’s close to shopping malls and cultural sites, with easy access to Penang Hill and the airport.
You can enjoy free WiFi and 24-hour front desk services, with laundry options available.
Budget: Ke-lan-tan House
Located in George Town, this guest house offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities and free WiFi. It’s close to Northam Beach and other attractions.
Facilities include a 24-hour front desk and shared kitchen, with bicycle rental available for exploring the area.
Final Thoughts
Penang is a beautiful Malaysian city that offers tourists plenty of places to visit and things to do.
From the stunning beaches of Batu Feringgi to the towering temples of Georgetown, there’s something for everyone in this amazing Southeast Asian destination. Don’t miss out on all the fun – add Penang to your travel bucket list today!
