Welcome to Penang, the famed island state on the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Known once by many as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, Penang is a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its strategic location along major maritime trade routes has shaped its multicultural heritage, evident in its architecture, food, and people.
Penang comprises two main areas: Penang Island, home to the capital city George Town, and Seberang Perai on the mainland of Malaysia. These are connected by the Penang Bridge, one of Southeast Asia’s longest bridges.
George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the heart of Penang. Its well-preserved colonial buildings and vibrant street life reflect the city’s rich history and multicultural roots. Beyond the city, Penang’s natural beauty ranges from the green heights of Penang Hill to the sandy stretches of Batu Ferringhi Beach.
Getting There From The UK
Reaching Penang from the UK is a relatively straightforward affair, with several airlines offering flights to this Malaysian paradise.
By Air
The most convenient way to travel to Penang from the UK is by air. Penang International Airport is well-connected with major cities around the world. There are no direct flights from the UK to Penang; however, several airlines offer one-stop flights. These usually involve a layover in Middle Eastern cities like Dubai, Doha, or, most commonly, the two transport hubs closest to Penang; Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Accordingly, flights booking out of London are most often found on Emirates, Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines.
The total travel time, including layovers, typically ranges from 15 to 20 hours. Upon arrival at Penang International Airport, you can take a taxi, Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber), or the Rapid Penang Bus to reach George Town or other parts of the island.
By Train
For those who prefer a more scenic journey, traveling by train is an option. You can take a flight from the UK to Kuala Lumpur, and then board the KTM ETS train to Butterworth, which is on the mainland across from Penang. The train journey offers picturesque views of the Malaysian countryside and takes about 4 hours. From Butterworth, you can take a 15-minute ferry ride to Penang Island.
Some Of Our Favourite Things To Do In Penang
Anyway, that’s the housekeeping dispensed with. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nature, Penang has something to offer, and with that in mind, today we’re exploring 9 of our favourite things to do in Penang. Care to join us?
Explore The UNESCO World Heritage Site Of George Town
George Town, the capital city of Penang and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living testament to the multicultural heritage and tradition of Asia. Its well-preserved buildings, dating back to the 19th century, tell a story of the city’s colonial past. Wander through the narrow lanes, admire the colourful street art, and soak in the unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.
Here are some of the best things to do in George Town:
- Explore Armenian Street: This bustling street is the heart of George Town’s heritage district. Lined with antique shops, cafes, and art galleries, it’s a great place to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the traditional clan houses and Chinese temples that dot the street.
- Admire the Street Art: George Town is famous for its unique street art, a mix of wrought-iron caricatures and painted murals that tell the story of the city. Take a leisurely stroll and discover these artistic gems, including the famous ‘Children on a Bicycle’ mural by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic.
- Visit the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion: Also known as the Blue Mansion, this stunning 19th-century building is a fine example of traditional Chinese architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and admire its intricate design.
- Explore the Peranakan Mansion: This beautifully restored mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Peranakans, a community of Chinese immigrants who adopted Malay customs. The mansion is filled with over 1,000 antiques and collectibles, making it a must-visit for history buffs.
- Stroll through the Botanic Gardens: Established by the British in 1884, these lush gardens are a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. They’re home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including monkeys and exotic birds.
- Drink Beer on Love Lane: Love Lane, with its charming colonial buildings and lively, street level boisterousness, is the perfect place to kick back after a day of exploring. The street is lined with bars and pubs, and is the perfect place in Penang to enjoy a cold pint as you soak in the lively atmosphere and maybe even catch a live band or two, who sometimes pitch up right in the middle of the road and start playing.
Savour The Street Food
Penang, often hailed as the culinary capital of Malaysia, offers a gastronomic adventure that is a testament to its rich cultural tapestry. The island’s street food scene is a unique blend of its Indian, Chinese, and Malay influences, creating a symphony of flavours that is distinctly Penang.
The street food in Penang is a celebration of its multicultural heritage. The Chinese influence is evident in dishes like Char Kway Teow, a stir-fried noodle dish that’s a local favourite. The Indian community’s contribution shines through in the form of Roti Canai, a type of Indian-influenced flatbread, and Nasi Kandar, a meal of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes. Malay cuisine’s rich, spicy flavours are showcased in dishes like Nasi Lemak, a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, and Assam Laksa, a dish deemed by Anthony Bourdain to be “the breakfast of the gods”.
The best place to experience this culinary diversity is at the island’s hawker centres, where a wide array of dishes are cooked fresh and served hot. Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is one of the most famous food destinations on the island. Here, you can sample everything from Assam Laksa, a tangy fish-based soup, to Rojak, a traditional fruit and vegetable salad dish.
Another must-visit is the New Lane Street Hawker Centre, where you can enjoy delicious street food under the stars. For a more local experience, head to the Pulau Tikus Market. Open from dawn, it’s a favourite breakfast spot among locals.
Read: 10 IDEAL foodie destinations in South East Asia
Scale Penang Hill
For a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle, head to Penang Hill. A funicular ride will take you to the top, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. The cooler climate, lush greenery, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Discover The Tropical Spice Garden
Nestled in the heart of Penang, the Tropical Spice Garden is a haven for nature lovers. This eco-attraction houses over 500 species of flora and fauna, many of which are used in traditional Asian cooking. Take a guided tour to learn about the medicinal properties of these plants, or participate in a cooking class to discover how these spices can transform your dishes.
Discover The Immersive History Of The Clan Jetties
In Georgetown but deserving of its own entry here, the Clan Jetties Floating Village, a series of wooden piers built by Chinese immigrants, offer a glimpse into Penang’s vibrant community life. Each jetty is named after a Chinese clan, and the houses are built on stilts over the water. As you walk along these jetties, you’ll witness the daily routines of the local families, adding a touch of authenticity to your Penang experience.
Marvel At The Kek Lok Si Temple
The Kek Lok Si Temple, also known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, is one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. This architectural marvel, perched atop a hill in Air Itam, is a sight to behold with its ornate decorations, beautiful pagodas, and a towering statue of the Goddess of Mercy. The temple also offers a stunning view of Penang, especially during the Chinese New Year when it’s illuminated with thousands of lights.
Stroll Along Batu Ferringhi Beach
Batu Ferringhi, which translates to ‘Foreigner’s Rock’, is Penang’s most popular beach. Its long (but admittedly narrow) stretch of soft, sandy beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with fireshows, acrobatics performances and generally a more energetic vibe. During the day, don’t miss out on the thrilling water sports activities such as parasailing and jet-skiing.
Be warned; this isn’t quite the powdery white, expansive sands typical of this part of the world, but Batu Ferringhi is still a lovely place to hang out.
Explore Penang National Park
Covering an area of over 2,500 hectares, Penang National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. It’s home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. The park offers several hiking trails that lead to secluded beaches, a meromictic lake, and even a lighthouse. You can also take a boat tour to explore the park’s coastal areas and spot wildlife.
Experience The Wonderfood Museum
Food is an integral part of Penang’s culture, and there’s no better place to explore this than the Wonderfood Museum. This quirky museum showcases giant replicas of Malaysia’s most popular dishes, making it a feast for the eyes. It’s not just about the visuals, though. The museum also provides insights into the ingredients, preparation methods, and the cultural significance of these dishes. It’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
The Bottom Line
Penang offers a rich and diverse cultural experience like no other, with a diversity of food, heritage and history pretty much unrivalled anywhere on the planet. We can’t wait to go back!
Just a short flight north, Phuket, Thailand, offers a similarly fascinating cultural and culinary experience. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the very best food in Phuket’s Old Town. Aroi Mak!