Complete Penang Travel Guide: Best Things To Do, Must-Visits, And Must-Eats For Your Penang Trip

Penang has always been a popular getaway destination known for its good food, artistic murals, and charming old-town vibe. It's easy to plan a Penang adventure, but if you're a lazy planner or are unsure where to start, we've put together a complete guide that comprises of everything you need to know to plan your trip, from must-visit spots to the best food places, hotel recommendations, and other travel tips!

Touched down at the airport and ready to check-in? Book a convenient airport transfer on Klook for a hassle-free ride from the airport to your hotel or Airbnb! This way you won't have to worry about flagging down a taxi and getting overcharged in an unfamiliar city.

You can also book a private car charter and explore the best parts of Penang while being driven around by a professional driver in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Choose between a full day or half-day charter on Klook.

If you prefer to have full flexibility in exploring the city, rent a car for your exploration in Penang! Opt for a car that suits your need and choose from our wide selection of vehicles available from compact cars to SUVs or even vans that can more than 7 pax. Conveniently pick-up and drop-off your vehicle at the Penang International Airport.

Penang is home to a great list of lovely accommodations from luxurious beach resorts along Batu Ferringhi to charming boutique hotels and hotels housed in unique heritage buildings. Enjoy discounted rates when you book your Penang stay on Klook!

From mouthwatering hawker eats to laid-back cafes, Penang is a food heaven that serves more than great char kuey teow. Check out our Penang food guides for inspiration on the best cafes, speakeasy bars, hawker food, high tea, halal restaurants, and more in the city:

Penang Hill is one of the places you have to pop by when in Penang. Hop on the Penang Hill Funicular and go through the railway's 258ft-long tunnel, believed to be the steepest in the world! You'll be transported 833 metres to the top of the beautiful Penang Hill.

Visit around sunset or even after nightfall to watch the city lights come to life. Do note that the temperature at the top of the hill is 5 - 10 degrees colder than in the city, so be sure to pack a jacket if you're afraid of the cold.

While you're at Penang Hill, check out The Habitat Penang Hill and enjoy an impressive 360-degree panoramic view of Penang Island as well as the beauty of Penang's 130-million-year-old rainforest. Take a thrilling and refreshing walk on the 230m Langur Way Canopy Walk here!

Penang is home to a handful of unique Starbucks stores, including a funky one along Batu Ferringhi where you can dip your toes in warm sand while sipping on an iced latte, and one nestled in a charming heritage building. Pop by for a cup of morning coffee before starting your full-day exploration!

Home to the world's longest tube waterslide - ESCAPE Theme Park is a must-visit funland when in Penang. Spend a day here experiencing over 30 thrilling activities including ziplining, water slides, rope courses, rock climbing, and more.

ESCAPE Theme Park is set amidst nature (surrounded by lush greens!) and has enough for you to explore to spend an entire day here. Book your discounted tickets on Klook for a hassle-free fun time!

For lovers of butterflies and families, Entopia is a great spot to add on to your Penang trip itinerary. 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. Book your discounted Entopia tickets on Klook here.

The TOP Komtar is Penang's highest iconic entertainment tower. Experience walking on glass 816 feet above sea level along the open-air Rainbow Skywalk and Observatory Deck that offers stunning seamless views of George Town and beyond. There are also a handful of other attractions here including a 7D Motion Theater, a boutique aquarium, and a bar and bistro that serves some great tapas food and cocktails!

The Tropical Spice Garden is a hidden gem in Penang, and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. Explore lush, landscaped award-winning gardens set out over 8 acres of secondary jungle valley - there are over 500 species of flora and fauna for you to marvel at here.

Book your discounted admission tickets on Klook that come inclusive of an audio guide and welcome drinks at the Bamboo Garden Herbal Tea kiosk. You can also opt for a special package that comes with a guided garden tour, as well as a 4-hour cooking class where you can learn to cook authentic Malaysian food with guidance from a professional chef!

Pulau Jerejak is a colourful 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! Book your Pulau Jerejak tour on Klook for a hassle-free adventure.

If you think Penang is all about that city life, we're here to change your mind! We've recently discovered a hidden gem in Penang that will transport you to a timeless kampung that looks straight out of a postcard from Bali.

Located in mainland Penang just 14 kilometres (a 20-minute drive) from Butterworth jetty terminal, Kampung Agong is a picturesque space surrounded by swaying coconut trees and traditional wooden kampung houses built on stilts.

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. The iconic building was featured in films like Crazy Rich Asians, Indochine, and more! You can even book a stay in this beautiful building on Klook here.

The Chew Jetty is a testament and a reminder of Penang’s history on Chinese immigration. Walk along the wooden floorboards and have a glimpse into the life of the locals that are still living on wooden houses on stilts above water.

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 - you can also consider chasing the golden glow at the less-crowded Lim Jetty or Tan Jetty for a more peaceful vibe.

Check out our suggested Penang itinerary if you're lazy to plan your own: