The large island of Penang, Malaysia, is teeming with culture, great food, and enough interesting sites to keep you busy for weeks.
Use this Penang Travel Guide to help you plan an unforgettable experience.
- Read an introduction to Georgetown, Penang, then take a look at these images of Penang.
1. Food in Penang
Penang is the place to sample all those Chinese, Indian, and Malay foods that you've been wondering about. Noodles can be bought on the street for less than US $1; delicious Indian Muslim food is served on banana leaves while Bollywood music fills the air.
- Learn all about the food in Penang.
- Read about Malaysian noodle dishes to try.
- Read about the famous pulled tea drink: teh tarik.
- Read about Malaysian Indian food.
- Learn about the famous durian fruit from Penang.
- Find the best places to eat in Penang.
2. Things to Do in Georgetown
Penang's sprawling settlement of Georgetown is dotted with small-yet-pleasant attractions. Two full days could be spent simply visiting the historic houses, Fort Cornwallis, and various shrines.
- Read about visiting Fort Cornwallis.
- Read about the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion.
- Tour the historic Khoo Kongsi Clan House.
- Read about the bizarre Penang Snake Temple.
3. Things to Do in Penang
While most people spend their time wandering the historic and colonial sites in Georgetown, escaping the city for some fresh, island air is a great way to spend a day or two.
- Read about visiting Balik Pulau on the other side of Penang.
- Spend an afternoon exploring Kek Lok Si Temple.
- Go hiking in Penang National Park.
4. Shopping in Georgetown
Georgetown is home to a handful of shopping malls -- both small and sprawling, however, Little India and Chinatown provide plenty of opportunities to find souvenirs at half the price.
- Read about where to find the best shopping in Penang.
5. Penang National Park
Home to nesting sea turtles and pristine beaches, Penang National Park is small enough to explore in one exhausting day. Two main trails give access to undeveloped, fine-sand beaches as well as a turtle sanctuary. A canopy walkway allows lucky hikers a glimpse of life above the jungle canopy.
- Read more about exploring Penang National Park.
6. Transportation in Penang, Malaysia
Most of Georgetown is easily walkable, but if the heat becomes too much jump on one of the free buses circulating through town. Georgetown's bus system is modern and efficient; getting to other parts of the island is relatively straightforward.
- Read about transportation in Penang.
