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Stunning sunset skyline view from Bukit Bendera, Penang, showcasing urban and natural landscapes.

Things to Do in Penang, Malaysia

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When to visit

MODERATEJan27°10d rainBEST
MODERATEFeb28°7d rainBEST
BUSYMar29°9d rainBEST
BUSYApr30°12d rainBEST
MODERATEMay30°15d rain
MODERATEJun29°13d rain
MODERATEJul29°12d rain
VERY BUSYAug29°13d rain
BUSYSep29°17d rain
BUSYOct28°19d rain
MODERATENov28°20d rain
MODERATEDec27°17d rainBEST

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Most popular attractions in Penang, Malaysia

George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site

1. George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site

4.4 (13,460)
Tourist AttractionAssociation Or OrganizationPoint of InterestEstablishment

Avasta kultuuride kokkupõrke paik, kus ajalugu jutustab iga värvikas seinamaal. Mõnusad jalutuskäigud viivad su otse ajaloolisse Penangi kesklinna.

Quick facts: Kuigi seal asub umbes 1700 hästi säilinud hoonet, saad hõlpsasti kõndida linna peamistel tänavatel ja kogeda traditsioonilist malajipärandit ning kolonialistlikku arhitektuuri. Kirjud tänavakunsti seinamaalid jutustavad lugusid igapäevaelust, mis köidavad nii noori kui vanu.

Highlights: Ainuüksi kolme kvartali piires leiab jalgrattaga või jalutades rohkem kui 100 ajaloolist hoonet ja traditsioonilist kauplust, mis räägivad erinevate kultuuride kooselust. Kellaajaliste tänava toiduputkade ümber käib lavastus, mis jõuab kõigi meeltesse läbi kohaliku maitse- ja lõhnemaailma.

Penang Hill

2. Penang Hill

4.2 (5,456)
Mountain PeakNatural FeatureEstablishment

Lummavad vaated ja jahutav mäekliima ootavad sind. Tule rännaku peale rongiga pilvepiirile ja avasta looduse mitmekesisus.

Quick facts: Siin tõuseb 833 meetri kõrgusele Malaisia vanim mägiraudtee, mis võtab sõitjalt alla 30 minutit. Tipp pakub 360-kraadist vaadet nii linna kui ka Aasia pikimale sillale, mis ühendab Penangi mandriga.

Highlights: Vaikne pilvepiiril asuv aed, kus kasvab üle 200 taimesordi, annab hingematva lopsaka ilu ja jahutava kliima. Rongipeatuse juures ootab teid Vietnami pagoodi püha seitsme-nivooline pagood, mis on 30 meetrit kõrge ja täis ajaloolist sümboolikat.

Kek Lok Si Temple

3. Kek Lok Si Temple

4.4 (14,701)
Buddhist TempleTourist AttractionPlace of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint of Interest

Rich with over 10,000 Buddha statues, this place offers a deep dive into Buddhist art. Wander through its grand halls and pagoda, enveloped in radiant lantern light.

Quick facts: Kek Lok Si temple includes over 10,000 exquisite statues of Buddha, making it one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. The temple complex covers about 15 acres with ten tiers and integrates Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architectural styles.

Highlights: A massive seven-story Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas stands within the complex, combining Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences, illustrated by sculptures of Buddha in various postures. During Chinese New Year, thousands of lanterns light the pathways, creating a mesmerizing sea of red and gold.

Penang National Park

4. Penang National Park

4.2 (2,175)
National ParkTourist AttractionParkPoint of InterestEstablishment

Avasta rohkelt erinevaid elupaiku ja ohtralt haruldasi loomi. Koge troopilise ranniku ja džungli võlu.

Quick facts: Pakub ligi 1300 hektarit eri ökosüsteemidega, sealhulgas mangrovemetsad ja korallrifid. Matkarajad viivad läbi troopilise džungli ja rannikualade, kus võib kohata haruldasi liike nagu merikilpkonnad.

Highlights: Pikim matkatee viib otse rannikuni, kus saab sõrmed liiva sisse suruda ja vaadata türkiissinist merd. Kõige vaiksemas osas leidub imepisikesi laisklevaid vesiroose, kes liiguvad päevavalguses aeglaselt.

Clan Jetties

5. Clan Jetties

4.2 (4,145)
Historical LandmarkTourist AttractionHistorical PlacePoint of InterestEstablishment

Avasta unikaalne veepealne küla, kus põlvkonnad elavad otse vee peal. Koge traditsioone ja käsitööd otse jalgadega platsi kohal.

Quick facts: Elanikkond elab puidust majades, mis on rajatud otse vee peale, toetudes sarikatele ning liitunud üheksa erineva hõimu perekonnaga. Kõige pikem jalgadega plats on ligi 100 meetrit ning ühendab mitut hõimu külade osa.

Highlights: Üheks tõeliselt eriliseks detailiks on see, et majad on seotud põlvkondade kaupa, mõned perekonnad on seal elanud üle 150 aasta. Lisaks hoolitsetakse traditsioonide ja hõimupärandi säilitamise eest, mis avaldub nii kalapüügimeetodites kui ka käsitööoskustes.

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

6. Pinang Peranakan Mansion

4.5 (6,161)
MuseumTourist AttractionPoint of InterestEstablishment

Sukeldu rikkaliku Peranakan kultuuri salapäradesse. Avastad luksuslikku sisekujundust ja haruldasi antiikesemeid.

Quick facts: Kolmekorruseline hoone sisaldab enam kui 1 000 antiikeset Peranakan kultuurist ja igapäevaelust. Avarad ruumid on kaunistatud värvikate mosaiikide ja käsitsi maalitud seinavaipadega.

Highlights: Majas on tõepoolest unikaalne portselani kohvikunurk koos 18. sajandist pärit esemetega, mis näitab peranakaani külalislahkust. Igast toast avaneb vaade lilleaiale, kus kasvavad üle 200 troopilise taime liigi.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

7. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

4.4 (5,506)
HotelLodgingRestaurantFoodPoint of Interest

Koge ajaloolist hiina arhitektuuri nagu ükski teine. Avastad rikkaliku kultuuri ja põnevad pärandkogemused unikaalses sinises majas.

Quick facts: Majal on 38 ruumi ja see kasutab 950 erinevat akent, mis annab sellele unikaalse valgustuse ja õhuringluse. Sinine keraamiline plaat, mida leidub maja välispinnal, pärineb Hiinast ja annab sellele erilise iseloomu.

Highlights: Keldrikorrusel saab näha iidset tiikerlikööri, mis sümboliseerib jõukust ja kaitset. Värvid ja detailid selle hoone sees on säilinud originaalsena üle 130 aasta, andes külastajale tõelise ajaloolise elamuse.

Batu Ferringhi Beach

8. Batu Ferringhi Beach

4.3 (4,479)
Tourist AttractionPoint of InterestEstablishment

Lõõgastu pehmel liival ja naudi merekohinat. Kogemus pakub mõnusat õhtust turukoptide avastamist ja värvikaid maitseid.

Quick facts: Rannas on ligi 4 kilomeetri pikkune pehme liivarand, mis tõmbab ligi üle 3 miljoni külastaja aastas. Öösel muutub rannajoon kohalike ja turistide peamiseks tänavatoidu ja käsitööde turuks.

Highlights: Pane tähele rannal kulgevat pehmet liivalossi rajamise traditsiooni kohalike laste seas, mis jätkub aastakümneid. Peale päikeseloojangut avanevad värvilised ööturud, kus müüakse üle 300 erineva toote, luues erilise atmosfääri.

Penang Botanic Gardens

9. Penang Botanic Gardens

4.5 (8,313)
Botanical GardenTourist AttractionPoint of InterestEstablishment

Unusta linnakära, avasta loodusvaikus ja tuhande taime saladused. Astu sisse rahuliku järve ja puudega, mis jutustavad lugusid.

Quick facts: Rahupaik teadmishimulistele: siin kasvab üle 600 taimesordi, muutes aia loomulikuks botaanikaõpiku allikaks. Siin asub ka eksootiline vannitoa puu, mille lehed meenutavad vanu vihmavarju katteid.

Highlights: Värskeim saladus on aga hiiglaslik bambusmülakas, mis kõmiseb tuules nagu marimba; see ainulaadne heli loob erilise atmosfääri. Järve ääres elavad rikkalikud liblikasliigid lisavad värvilist elu ja rahu tunnet.

Where to Stay in Penang, Malaysia

Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions

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Traditional Sweet Dishes

Ais Kacang

Ais Kacang

Ais Kacang is a colorful shaved ice dessert topped with sweet syrups, red beans, and jelly, popular for its refreshing taste in Penang's tropical climate.

Cendol

Cendol

Cendol is a traditional dessert made with green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Pisang Goreng

Pisang Goreng

Pisang Goreng are deep-fried bananas often enjoyed as a sweet snack or dessert, known for their crispy exterior and soft, sweet inside.

Traditional Savory Dishes

Char Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow is a famous Penang stir-fried flat rice noodle dish cooked with shrimp, Chinese sausage, eggs, and bean sprouts, loved for its smoky wok hei flavor.

Penang Assam Laksa

Penang Assam Laksa

Penang Assam Laksa is a tangy and spicy fish-based noodle soup, featuring tamarind for its sour taste and topped with fresh herbs and pineapple.

Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar is a beloved Malaysian dish from Penang consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of flavorful curries and side dishes, reflecting local Indian Muslim culinary influence.

Traditional Beverages

Teh Tarik

Teh Tarik

Teh Tarik, meaning 'pulled tea', is a frothy milk tea prepared by pouring the beverage back and forth between two containers to create its signature texture.

Lime Juice or Air Limau

Lime Juice or Air Limau

Lime Juice, or Air Limau, is a refreshing traditional drink made from fresh lime juice, sugar, and water, often served chilled to combat Penang's heat.

Soya Bean Drink

Soya Bean Drink

Soya Bean Drink is a popular healthy beverage made from soaked and blended soybeans, served sweetened or plain and enjoyed fresh in Penang.

Frequently Asked Questions about Penang, Malaysia

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Most popular day trips

Langkawi

60 km 2h ferry

A beautiful archipelago known for beaches and nature.

Butterworth

15 km 30m ferry

Mainland area with markets and local charm.

Bukit Mertajam

20 km 30m by car

Famous for recreational parks and cultural sites.

Rent a car in Penang, Malaysia

Comments (6)

X
Xiulan K.

Heads up: the local bus system is complicated for newbies. Grab a prepaid card called Rapid Penang Link from any station. Much cheaper and easier than taxis, especially if you plan to roam a lot.

10
R
Rosario F.

Weather was tougher than expected, nonstop sun with little breeze. Best to visit outside peak tropical storm season. Great place for food lovers but a bit noisy at night near popular spots.

8
M
Mila R.

Honestly, the island feels a bit overhyped for its natural spots, but the cultural heritage saved the trip. Food prices were wallet-friendly, which was a major plus.

4
E
Emilia P.

Food scene is fantastic, super diverse with street eats that hit the spot. Expect a bit of heat and humidity, so pack light and stay hydrated. A 3-4 day trip felt just right to explore without rushing.

4
I
Indah V.

Skip the main hawker centers during dinner rush. Instead, try Gurney Drive early evening for less crowd and better seafood prices. Locals swear by street stalls around Pulau Tikus for authentic meals.

10

Getting there

Train stations

Butterworth Railway Station

KTM ETS, Intercity

From Penang International Airport to city center, take a taxi or Rapid Penang bus 401 or 401E.

Find flights to Penang, Malaysia

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Useful information for Penang, Malaysia

Shopping locationsGurney Plaza, Queensbay Mall, Komtar
Nightlife locationsUpper Penang Road, Love Lane
Popular casual restaurantsMamak Stalls, Hawker Centres, Local Cafes
Popular fancy restaurantsChina House, Ferringhi Garden, The Top
Popular coffee shopsMacallum Connoisseurs, The Mugshot Cafe, China House
Tap water safe to drinkNo
Digital nomad visaYes
Best taxi appGrab, MyCar, Maxim
Taxi price / km$0.3
Tourists / year18000000
Population1800000
Mobile internet speed25 Mbps
Unemployment percentage4.5 %
Poverty percentage5.6 %
Average income / month$1000
Average cost of living / month$700
Hotel price / night from$15
Beer price from$2
Coffee price from$1.5
Street food price from$1
Restaurant meal price from$5
Local currencyMYR
Power plug typesG
ReligionsIslam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism
Spoken languagesMalay, English, Chinese, Tamil
EthnicitiesMalay, Chinese, Indian
Political orientationcenter
Population density1761 /km²
Geographical area293 km²
Possible natural disastersFlooding, Landslides, Tsunamis, Earthquakes
Dangerous animalsCobras, Scorpions
Locations for a nice walkPenang National Park, Georgetown Heritage Area, Penang Hill
Public transportationsRapid Penang Buses, Ferries
AirlinesMalaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Firefly
Suggested vaccinationsHepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, Dengue
Architecture typeColonial, Chinese, Indian, Islamic
Average beer consumption per person / year0.85 l
Average wine consumption per person / year0.1 l
Tipping culturenot obligatory but appreciated
Coworking / day$15
Airbnb / month$400
1BR rent / month$250
Gym / month$25
Daily budget (backpacker)$30
Daily budget (mid-range)$50

Overview for Penang, Malaysia

English proficiencyAverage
Traffic safetyAverage
Friendly to foreignersGood
Freedom of speechBad
Public transportationAverage
HealthcareGood
EducationAverage
Power grid reliabilityGood
Crime safetyAverage
WalkabilityGood
NightlifeAverage
Food sceneGood
LGBTQ+ friendlyAverage
Startup sceneAverage
Noise levelAverage
CleanlinessAverage
Nature accessGood
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