12 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PENANG, MALAYSIA (GEORGE TOWN)
George Town, on Penang Island in Malaysia, is one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever visited and quickly became one of my favourites!
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it blends rich history with vibrant creativity. At its heart is the old town, where elegant British colonial buildings, colourful Chinese shophouses, serene mosques, and ornate Indian temples stand side by side, reflecting its multicultural heritage. The streets buzz with energy, featuring striking street art and an unbeatable street food scene influenced by Chinese, Malay, and Indian flavours.
Beyond the old town, George Town showcases its modern side, with sleek skyscrapers, bustling malls, and the tranquil greenery of Penang Hill.
Table of Contents
HOW TO GET AROUND GEORGE TOWN
Getting around George Town is a breeze, especially on foot or by bicycle. The compact old town is perfect for walking, with its vibrant street art and countless food stalls waiting to be discovered. Once you’re done exploring on foot, renting a bicycle is a great way to continue your adventure. There are Link bike stands throughout George Town, where you can rent bikes for the entire day at a very reasonable cost.
There is also the CAT shuttle, a free service that loops around George Town’s must-see attractions, offering a relaxed and budget-friendly way to explore the city. It picks you up from the Weld Quay Bus Terminal, travels along major streets in George Town, and drops you off at designated bus stops just a short walk away from key attractions.
BEST TIME TO VISIT GEORGE TOWN
BEST HOTELS IN GEORGE TOWN
Located in the heart of George Town, right on Armenian Street, 88 Armenian offers the perfect base for your stay in Penang. Its prime location puts you just steps away from the city’s best attractions, making it an ideal choice for exploring.
VICTORIA GARDEN HOTEL
Victoria Garden Hotel is perfectly located in George Town, putting you just steps away from Penang’s top attractions. Explore vibrant street art, the stunning Khoo Kongsi, and the historic waterfront at Chew Jetty- all within walking distance. Enjoy super comfortable rooms at a very reasonable price!
HERITAGE BOUTIQUE HOME
Located in the vibrant heart of George Town, Heritage Boutique Home is the perfect getaway for your Penang visit. Just an 18-minute walk from Northam Beach and 700 meters from the Komtar Skywalk, this charming apartment offers a cosy bedroom and a welcoming living room, ideal for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
Cheong fatt tze’s blue mansion
Tucked away in the heart of George Town, Cheong Fatt Tze, The Blue Mansion, is a beautiful boutique heritage hotel full of character. With its stunning blue exterior, this historic building combines old-world charm with modern comforts. Once the grand home of a Chinese merchant, it’s a place where history comes alive, offering a unique and memorable stay in the heart of George Town.
Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion
Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion
WHERE TO EAT IN GEORGE TOWN
Taiwanese Palace
We stumbled upon this restaurant by chance, and it was a delightful surprise! Nestled in a charming back alley of George Town, Taiwanese Palace serves up an authentic taste of Taiwanese cuisine.The menu is packed with traditional flavours, each dish crafted to perfection. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, especially on weekends-this hidden gem is a favourite among locals!
PENANG ROAD FAMOUS LAKSA
The Penang Road Famous Laksa has been serving up delicious bowls since 1970, making it a true local legend. This popular spot attracts both locals and tourists eager to taste its signature dish.The lai fun noodles are served in a rich sardine-based broth, full of flavour and topped with fresh condiments. It’s a simple yet unforgettable dish that’s been perfected over the years.
Remember, it’s cash only-so come prepared. With a spot on the Michelin Guide, this is a must-try during your Penang visit!
NIGHT MARKETS
Chulia Street Night Market is located in the heart of George Town, making it easily accessible. The market comes alive in the early evening and operates until late at night, offering an authentic taste of Penang’s street food culture. As you stroll through the bustling lanes, the aroma of grilled meats, spices, and local dishes fills the air, creating a sensory feast that’s hard to resist. Its open every night apart form Mondays!
NARROW MARROW
If you’re exploring Penang, Narrow Marrow on Beach Street is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. This charming café has captured the hearts of café hoppers with its cozy, artistic ambiance and a welcoming vibe that feels like home. One of their standouts is the signature Tuak, a traditional rice wine that’s an absolute must-try while in Penang.
Narrow Marrow was lovingly started in 2014 by Alvin and Jamie as a creative haven for their friends, and it has blossomed into a vibrant spot loved by locals and visitors. Over the years, it has built a reputation for serving indulgent Tiramisus, decadent Cheesecakes, and Coffee.
NIGHT MARKETS
narrow marrow
Kommune
If you’re looking for a break from meat or are a vegetarian, Kommune is the place to be! This all-plant-based restaurant puts a creative twist on traditional Malaysian dishes, each one bursting with vibrant flavors.
Their menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients from nearby farms and markets, ensuring that every dish is wholesome and full of taste.
STREET FOOD
George Town is named one of the best street food destinations in Asia! No visit is complete without tasting its incredible array of mouthwatering dishes. For us, the highlight of Penang was undoubtedly the street food. Every corner offered something new, showing off the unique fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavours that make Penang’s cuisine so special.
We made it our mission to try as much as we could- and we were never disappointed! From spicy laksa to savoury char kway Teow and sweet Apom Balik, every bite was a delight. With so many options, it can feel overwhelming at first, but that’s part of the fun!
Street food
street food
LANGIT SENJA KOPI
Another gem for coffee lovers! Langit Senja Kopi is a delightful slow coffee haven in George Town.
With a weekly rotation of seven unique Indonesian coffee beans, the café offers an ever-evolving experience for coffee enthusiasts. To add to its charm, the café hosts monthly events, from poetry readings to storytelling sessions, creating a vibrant community space that’s as enriching as its brews.
COFFEE AT LOCAL CLUB
This spot serves the best coffee in town! We found ourselves coming here every morning to kickstart our day. It’s located right on Armenian Street, one of the most picturesque areas in George Town. They also offer amazing brunch options-perfect if you’re looking for a change from the local cuisine.
coffee at local club
coffee at local club
UNFORGETTABLE THINGS TO DO IN GEORGE TOWN
1- EXPLORE ARMENIAN STREET
In the heart of George Town’s heritage district lies Armenian Street- a lively, colourful street brimming with history. It’s home to a vibrant art scene, pop-up galleries, cosy cafes, gift shops, and inviting tea rooms. This area quickly became one of my favourite places to explore and is one of the best spots to experience George Town’s famous street art.
ARMENIAN STREET
2- EXPLORE THE STREET ART
George Town is bursting with colourful, vibrant street art found at nearly every turn. From stunning murals and intricate wall paintings to eye-catching steel sculptures, art fills almost every corner of the city. We explored George Town with a map in hand, allowing us to discover the street art at our own pace. This approach gave us the freedom to take breaks whenever we wanted, stopping for a snack or grabbing noodles from a street vendor along the way. While local guides offer tuk-tuk tours that highlight all the must-see spots, we preferred to wander freely and soak in the art and atmosphere on our own terms.
Street Art Penang outlines all the walking routes to help you discover the best street art.
i want bao
“I Want Bao” is a delightful mural located next to the Ming Xiang Tai Pastry Shop painted by WK Setor.
man and woman merchants
The mural of a man and woman merchants by Chan Kai Lun is located on Lorong Ikan Street in Georgetown.
kung fu girl in blue
"Kung fu girl in blue "mural art by Zacharevic on Jalan Muntri between Love Lane and Leith Street, Georgetown.
The indian boatman
Painted in 2014 by Lorong Stewart, "The Indian Boatman" shows an Indian man rowing a boat.
5-DISCOVER CHINA TOWN
Chinatown in George Town is a vibrant neighbourhood you won’t want to miss. With its traditional shophouses, busy markets, and beautiful temples, this area brings the city’s Chinese heritage to life. The streets are alive with the sounds of bustling vendors, the tempting aromas of street food, and colourful lanterns that add charm to every corner. You can savour local dishes like spicy noodles, dumplings, and sweet treats. Be sure to visit landmarks such as the Khoo Kongsi clan house and the stunning Sri Mariamman Temple. With its rich history, delicious food, and lively atmosphere, Chinatown is a true highlight of George Town.
3- Visit little India
Visiting George Town’s Little India felt like I’d been transported straight to the vibrant streets of India. The area is a feast for the senses, with the aroma of spices in the air, colourful shopfronts, and Bollywood music playing all around.
Located around Chulia Street and Queen Street, Little India is full of street food stalls and restaurants serving delicious Malaysian Indian dishes. Shops and stalls sell everything from sparkling gold jewellery and fragrant flowers to bright saris and affordable souvenirs.
Don’t miss the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Penang, which adds history and charm to the area.
Kapitan Restaurant is known for serving some of the best Indian tandoori in town! Just a short walk away, there’s also a popular street stall called Pani Puri and Bonda that serves up delicious Pani Puri. This stall quickly became one of our favourite spots for a quick bite. If you spot it, do yourself a favour and give it a try-you won’t be disappointed!
5-WALK THOUGH PENANG ROAd
Penang Road is a lively hub brimming with mouthwatering food, rich local culture, and fascinating history. The streets are lined with stunning colonial architecture and vibrant street art. It is also conveniently located near iconic attractions such as Komtar Tower and the Blue Mansion. For anyone exploring George Town, Penang Road is an unmissable destination.
PENang road
5-VISIT THE CLAN JETTIES
Visit the Clan Jetties just before sunset for a truly picturesque experience. These are long wooden piers lined with houses built on stilts over the water. For over 150 years, members of Chinese clans have lived here, giving the area its name: “Clan Jetties.” Originally, there were seven of these “streets on stilts,” but one was lost to a fire.
Nowadays, the jetties have a slightly weathered charm. Some have transformed into local souvenir shops, but each of the six remaining jetties has its own unique character. The Tan Jetty, for instance, is less touristy, offering a more tranquil experience.
CLAN JETTIES
6-Tour the blue mansion
The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, widely known as the “Blue Mansion,” is a 19th-century architectural masterpiece painted in a striking indigo blue. Once owned by a shopkeeper-turned-wealthy businessman, this iconic landmark is a must-visit in Penang.
Daily guided tours let visitors explore its well-preserved interiors, featuring open-air courtyards, intricate verandas, and materials sourced from around the globe. For an unforgettable stay, the mansion also operates as a boutique hotel.
7- Visit the Hin Bus Depot
HIN BUS DEPOT
8-Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
kok lok si temple
kok lok si temple
9-Penang Hill
Penang National Park offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, just a short bus or taxi ride from George Town. This natural haven boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife and plants.
The park has numerous hiking trails that lead to lush forests, and breathtaking viewpoints. Don’t miss the canopy walkway, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the treetops and beyond. Keep an eye out for the park’s fascinating wildlife, including playful monkeys and the elusive black giant squirrel-we were lucky enough to spot several during our visit!
On weekends, the park becomes a favourite spot for locals, so it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowds. To make your visit even smoother, consider booking your tickets in advance.
PENANG HILL
10-Colonial architecture
George Town, the capital of Penang, is famous for its beautiful colonial architecture. The city is home to historic buildings, landmarks, and charming shophouses that showcase its British colonial past and cultural diversity. Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets to admire the unique buildings and soak in the city’s rich history.