Plan Your Penang Adventure with our list of Best Things to Do in Penang!
The captivating state of Penang has always been a popular destination in Malaysia known for its good food and charming old-town vibe, but its myriad of interesting attractions make it even more fun to explore. From sky-high views to a glow-in-the-dark mansion, there is never a dull moment on this island state. Read on for our complete list of the top fun things to do in Penang for your next getaway!
1. Head to the top of Penang Hill at The Habitat
Penang Hill is one of the places you have to pop by when in Penang. Go right to the highest viewing point of the entire island by visiting The Habitat and right up to the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk.
Here, you can enjoy an impressive 360-degree panoramic view of Penang Island as well as the beauty of its 130-million-year-old rainforest. Take a thrilling and refreshing walk on the 230m Langur Way Canopy Walk and if you're tired - look out for swings where you can stop to take a quick scenic swing break!
To get to Penang Hill, simply just hop on the Penang Hill Funicular and go through the railway's 258ft-long tunnel, believed to be the steepest in the world! We recommend visiting around sunset for peak golden hour views ✨
Address: The Habitat Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera, 11300 Penang, Malaysia
2. Visit ESCAPE Theme Park
Home to the world's longest tube water slide that spans an incredible length of 1,111m, ESCAPE Theme Park is a must-visit fun land for all you adrenaline junkies.
Spend all day having a splashing good time with over 30 thrilling activities in their Adventureplay Park and Waterplay Park, including ziplining, water slides, rope courses, rock climbing, and more.
Address: 828, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
3. See butterflies at Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
Photo Credit: @qiyiiiii (Instagram)
If you are travelling with kids in tow, the Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is a great friendly-family activity to add to your Penang plans. Home to 15,000 free-flying butterflies as well as over 200 species of plants amidst waterfalls, ponds, caves, and artistic gardens, Entopia is one of the largest butterfly gardens in Malaysia.
Photo Credit: @myentopia
Inside an impressive domed enclosure, this endearing butterfly farm has multiple levels of enchanting nature to discover. Their indoor garden isn’t just filled with butterflies, but also with all kinds of invertebrates and small reptiles. Get ready for a fun excursion at Entopia with your loved ones and grab your discounted tickets here on Klook.
Address: 830 Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Penang, Malaysia
4. Explore Georgetown’s Unique Street Art
Photo Credit: @jenny_vnn (Instagram)
Another one of Penang's top things to do is definitely mural hunting! See if you're able to hunt down many of the state’s famous street art in Georgetown. One of the hotspots to find these artworks is along Armenian Street, where you can find famous works such as the Brother and Sister on a Swing, Boy on Motorbike, as well as Kids on Bicycle.
Photo Credit: @thaouyen1912 (Instagram)
Make sure you load up on sunscreen before your adventure though, as the sun can be quite harsh during the day. Many restaurants, eateries or even hotels also have their own murals too. With an artistic backdrop at every corner, it's definitely #OOTD spots galore, get ready to snap away!
5. Uncover the secrets of the iconic Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
Penang's iconic Blue Mansion is an architectural and historical wonder, with a genuine old school charm that's hard to resist. This indigo-blue mansion is a unique blend of Eastern and Western design elements, which makes it stand out from the rest of the buildings along the street.
Go on the guided tour to learn all about the history of this building as well as its owner, Cheong Fatt Tze before dining at its in-house restaurant, Indigo Restaurant, which also happens to be one of the Penang's top dining spots. Better yet, you can also choose to stay a night at the Blue Mansion too!
#FunFact: The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion has been used as a filming location in many movies. In fact, the courtyard was the location for the mahjong scene in 'Crazy Rich Asians'! How cool is that?
Address: 14, Lebuh Leith, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
6. Get the best city view at The TOP Komtar
Photo Credit: @hasifhamsyari (Instagram)
Level up your exploration of Penang by catching the best views of Georgetown. One of the best places to enjoy the dazzling city lights would be from the rooftop of the island’s landmark, The TOP Komtar.
From 68 floors above, their Rainbow Skywalk is a semi-circular glass bridge that offers stunning seamless views of Georgetown, with its clear glass floors and sides. Step out and get sweeping views all around - if you're afraid of heights...perhaps don't look down!
The TOP Komtar is Penang's highest iconic entertainment tower. You can also head to their Observatory Deck that offers equally stunning views of the city. There are a handful of other attractions here as well, including a 7D Motion Theatre, a boutique aquarium, Tech Dome Penang (sort of like Singapore's Science Centre) and more!
Address: 1, Jln Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
7. Challenge Yourself at The Gravityz
Adrenaline junkies, there's one more attraction at The TOP Komtar that you cannot miss. Introducing The Gravityz, which invites you to walk at a height of 239m above ground with only a rope harness attached to your body – definitely a thrill-seeker's dream!
The ropes course consists of six obstacle challenges, including a section with a short zipline, and also a seat facing outwards (literally sitting on the edge of the tower!). We tried it out and while it was terrifyingly scary, it was also a really rewarding experience! Kudos to our instructors and guides Izzat and Sharman for their guidance and encouragement!
Address: Level 65 @ The Top, Menara Komtar
8. Take 'gram-worthy photos at the Dark Mansion
Immerse yourself with interactive glow-in-the-dark exhibits at the Dark Mansion, the very first and only glow-in-the-dark museum in Malaysia. This trendy modern art exhibit creatively integrates technology with its art pieces, making it another must-visit spot in Penang!
Escape the daytime heat and head inside where you can spend your time watching paintings transform before your eyes from 2D paintings into awesome 3D optical illusions! Every corner holds a unique glowing backdrop, and the perfect photo op!
Address: 145, Lebuh Kimberley, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
9. Explore the colourful Pulau Jerejak
Photo Credit: @hazwanhfiz (Instagram)
Go on another colourful adventure at Pulau Jerejak, a picturesque historic island located a short 10-minute ferry ride from Penang Island. This hidden gem is dotted with beautiful photo spots including a rainbow pier and a romantic swing on the beach; it's also known for its breathtaking sunsets that will paint the sky pink, yellow, and orange!
Photo Credit: @fara.halim (Instagram)
Photo Credit: @___evachan___ (Instagram)
Pulau Jerejak has had a long, eventful past, but is now a colourful and laid-back island, perfect as a day trip destination from Penang. You can even spend a night here at the beautiful Jerejak Island Resort.
How to go: Take a ferry from Jerejak’s jetty in Bayan Lepas
10. Stroll along Penang’s historical clan jetties
Photo Credit: @_aixam (Instagram)
Flanking the Pengkalan Weld of Penang are the clan jetties, a unique quayside attraction that is an important part of the state’s heritage. These jetties are a testament and a reminder of Penang’s history on Chinese immigration. Take a little stroll along the wooden floorboards and have a glimpse into the life of the locals that are still living in wooden houses on stilts above water.
Photo Credit: @desmondtan.ts (Instagram)
Do be mindful that people still live in these houses, so be respectful and keep your voices down while you explore the area. We heard the sunsets here are breathtaking - we recommend chasing the golden glow at the Chew Jetty, Lim Jetty or Tan Jetty.
Addresses:
Chew Jetty: 45, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Lim Jetty: 37, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Malaysia
Tan Jetty: 48, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
11. Play with food at the WonderFood Museum
Photo Credit: @123.yurina (Instagram)
Photo Credit: @ninaalexandra_ (Instagram)
What better way to discover Malaysian culinary delights than a museum dedicated to all things food? Foodie or not, you're definitely going to love an afternoon at the WonderFood Museum - a fascinating place that features giant, oversized replicas of Malaysian dishes, fruits and other international delicacies 😱
Photo Credit: @wnazamri (Instagram)
There are three galleries to explore - go on an adventure to learn more about local cooking traditions and take fun photos with food!
Address: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
12. Visit a mini zoo at Audi Dream Farm
Photo Credit: @tzelynn99 (Instagram)
Take a short trip to the quieter Southwest region of Penang Island and visit Balik Pulau, a quaint town worthy of a visit. One of our favourite things to do here is spending some time at the Audi Dream Farm, a charming mini zoo and farm that is suitable for family trips.
Photo Credit: @eykinmurnie (Instagram)
Enjoy their line-up of fun hands-on activities, like animal riding, plant potting, bird feeding, Malay traditional batik painting and more. The family package even includes free camel or pony rides too!
Address: Sungai Rusa 11010 Penang Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia
13. Make New Friends at Penang Bird Park
Here's another family-friendly activity to consider! The Penang Bird Park is one for the largest bird park attractions in Malaysia with a huge variety of bird species and plants.
Check out the bird show and get to interact with birds up close at the hand-feeding experience in the Geodesic Dome and two giant sized aviaries in the park. Besides birds, do also keep your eyes peeled for other animals like the mouse deer, pythons, and even crocodiles!
Address: Jalan Todak Seberang Jaya, 13700 Perai, Penang, Malaysia
14. Chill Out at Batu Ferringhi Beach
Looking for a sunny and chill beach day out after a day of exploring Penang's cultural gems and street murals? It's time to hit Batu Ferringhi Beach! Golden sands and warm waters, perfect for sunbathing or a quick dip - what could be better?
If you're up for it, there's also water sports available at the beach, such as jet skiing and parasailing.
Address: Jalan Batu Ferringhi Batu Ferringhi, 11100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
15. Learn about Peranakan Culture at Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Image Credit: Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Want to dive deeper and learn more about Penang’s rich Peranakan heritage? There's no better place to visit than the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. Learn more about the Peranakans, also known as the Babas and Nyonyas, and their unique culture and lifestyle, that was influenced by adopting selected ways of the local Malays and colonial British.
Built during the 19th century, the mansion is also a piece of history in itself. Take some time to wander within its mint green walls and admire an astounding collection of Peranakan artifacts.
Address: 29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
16. Explore Hin Bus Depot Art Centre
Art lovers and culture vultures cannot miss a trip to Hin Bus Depot Art Centre. Touting itself as George Town's creative hub, Hin Bus Depot is where you will find anything from art markets and flea markets (like Singapore's Public Garden), to food, music or literary festivals, and other pop-up events galore.
Check out their Facebook page for the latest events and operating hours!
Address: 31A Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Penang
17. Visit the famous Kek Lok Si Temple
The glistening Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest buddhist temple in Malaysia. It is home to the 7-tier Pagoda of the 10,000 Buddhas as well as the 30-meter tall bronze statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. These are some jaw-dropping sights to behold for sure!
Address: Kek Lok Si Temple, Jln Balik Pulau, 11500 Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia
If you want to hit all of Penang's main attractions in a tour, the Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing half-day tour will pick you up at your hotel's door step and whizz you away to have a guided tour of the Kek Lok Si Temple followed by an adventure to Penang Hill (you'll get to take the funicular train to the top!).
18. Penang Snake Temple
Image credit: Wikimedia
Also known as the Temple of the Azure Clouds, Penang's Snake Temple is a Chinese temple that is home to snakes that are believed to be reincarnated disciples of the deified Buddhist monk Master Qingshui, to whom the temple is dedicated.
What makes the Snake Temple truly unique is the presence of numerous venomous pit vipers within its premises. These snakes, including Wagler's pit vipers, are believed to be inhabitants of the surrounding forest who sought refuge in the temple grounds centuries ago. It's said that the incense and smoke from the burning jossticks in the temple keep the snakes docile.
19. Green Acres Orchard
Green Acres Orchard & Ecolodge is a 16-acre organic fruit farm in Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia.
Sustainably farmed for the last 70 years, Green Acres does not use chemical fertilisers, pesticides or insecticides on the farm, minimising pollution to the surrounding environment. Enjoy a tour around the fruit farm where you'll get to munch on fresh fruit and you can even book a stay here too! Green Acres offer farmstays in two lodgings - a treehouse and a reassembled traditional Malay house using reclaimed materials to build and electricity generated by solar panels.
20. Fort Cornwallis
Learn more about Penang's history and Malaysia's largest standing fort, Fort Cornwallis, right here in Penang! Built in the late 18th century and named after the then Earl Cornwallis, Fort Cornwallis was originally built to defend against pirates but was later used more for administration purposes.
Best Things to Eat in Penang
21. Indulge in local hawker delights like char kuey teow and cendol
Can't come to Penang and not pig out on all the delicious eats here. With so many famous hawker streets to choose from, you literally can visit one hawker street every day (which is what we did on our 3D2N trip).
Feast on local delights such as smoky wok-hei infused Char Kuey Teow - remember to get the duck egg option for extra flavour and richness, slurp on some tasty Penang Hokkien Mee (which is prawn noodles in soup not the Singaporean dish of fried noodles that you know), as well as Satay, Wanton Mee, Assam Laksa, and more! Wash it all down with a bowl of Cendol (Crushed ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, pandan jelly bits and kidney beans) or a refreshing bowl of Cheng Tng (sweet dessert soup).
If you're not sure which hawker streets to start, here are some suggestions:
- New Lane Hawker Stalls
- Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls
- Presgrave Street Hawker Centre
- Kimberley Street Food Night Market
22. Have brunch at a cafe
Image Credit: @norm.micro.roastery
If you love cafe hopping, you'll be happy to know that Penang is home to many beautiful cafes serving up great coffee and delicious eats! We had brunch at Norm Micro Roastery, and the entire experience was 💫 chef's kiss 💫
This cafe has been making waves on Instagram and Tik Tok, and it's not hard to see why. With its unassuming entry way that makes it a hidden cafe of sorts, to its gorgeous minimalist-themed interior and tasty offerings - Norm Micro Roastery is definitely a great place for brunch in Penang!
We tried the Pulled Pork Benedict, Baked Eggs and Norm Essential (Breakfast platter), everything was delicious - but we also heard that their signature risotto is amazing as well (gotta come back for that next time!).
Address: 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
23. Visit a hidden bar
Did you know that Penang has a super exciting nightlife scene? This city is dotted with unique hidden bars, you just need to know where to look!
Image credit: @magazine_63
We spent an enjoyable evening at Magazine 63, an Old China era-themed bar with cocktails served in Chinese-style wine jars and pots. There's also live music and bar bites, and they are open till 2am - the perfect spot to chill and unwind with friends!
Address: 63A, Jalan Magazine, Georgetown, 10300 Pulau Pinang
24. Tuck into tasty Dim Sum for breakfast at Tai Tong Restaurant
Nothing beats a hearty dim sum breakfast! Start your day on an awesome note with a sumptuous dim sum spread at Tai Tong Restaurant, which is one of the oldest dim sum establishments in Penang itself.
Tuck into bite-sized delights, from the classic har kow and siew mai to carrot cake, egg tarts, and more! Everything is mostly DIY-style here - pick up your desired dim sum from the aunty at the dim sum carts, make payment, and enjoy!
Address: 45, Lebuh Cintra, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
25. Enjoy authentic Nyonya Kueh at Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay
Pop one of these moreish kuehs at Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay and you won't be able to stop!
Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay is a kueh factory that serves a delightful array of colourful kueh, you can pick and choose your favourites all from the classic ang koo kueh to pulut inti or try something that you haven't had before! Perhaps rempah udang (savoury pandan-leaf wrapped kueh), kuih koci santan (kueh made with glutinous rice flour, and stuffed with coconut fillings with palm sugar or pulut tai tai (kaya kueh)?
Address: Chulia St, Jalan Masjid, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
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