Penang is a small island state in Malaysia known for its tropical beauty, street art and an alluring blend of old-school charm and modern, trendy attractions. The capital of Penang, George Town, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, further proof of the island’s cultural significance. While you will find many modern tourist hotspots in Penang today, heritage monuments and buildings of this island, like the Khoo Kongsi, the Pinang Pirakan mansion and more, will leave you impressed. From tranquil Buddhist temples to picturesque hills and beaches to bustling lanes such as the Armenian Street, Little India, etc. to delightful art, Penang, Malaysia is a place where you will not fall short of finding places to explore. Read on for some of the best places that make Penang a favourite tourist destination.
Here are some places in Penang, Malaysia to add to your itinerary
1. Visit Penang Hill
Think colonial British vibes, lush greenery all around, and a view to die for. This is the definition that suits Penang Hill the best. A hill station founded by the British, Penang Hill is a cluster of several hills like Tiger Hill, Government Hill and more. The British touch is still reflected in the classy and luxe bungalows. A delightful place to catch some city views and explore the beauty of Penang, this is one of the most famous places to visit in Penang.
Where: Air Itam, Penang
When: 6:30 am – 11 pm
Entry fee: RM 3 onwards (for children between 4 – 12 years of age), RM 6 onwards (for adults) for Malaysian citizens and RM 8 onwards (for children between 4 – 12 years of age), RM 15 onwards (for adults) for foreigners (approx.)
2. Visit the Kek Lok Si Temple
This temple, picturesquely located on a hilltop, is known to be one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. The temple is not just a culturally sacred place of worship for Buddhists but is also one of the most famous heritage buildings in Penang, making it an unmissable part of Penang’s sightseeing. The huge Buddha statue, ancient carvings, sculptures and intricate details of the temple are what make it so famous and one of the best things to see in Penang.
Where: Jalan Rambutan, 11500 Ayer Itam, Air Itam, Penang
When: 7 am – 5:30 pm
Entry fee: Free entry to the temple but RM 2 to visit the pagoda and the elevator each.
3. Relax at the Batu Ferringhi Beach
This beach is known for its glittering white sand, the shimmering water and a relaxed vibe, which makes it one of Penang’s most popular beaches. The beach is known for its clean sand and water, making your time here more pleasant. The refreshing water, sea breeze and the sun will work wonders to melt away all your exhaustion and leave you completely rejuvenated, body and soul. It also has many water sports available for the more adventurous people.
Where: 11050 Batu Ferringhi, George Town, Penang
When: 10 am – pm (closed on Sunday)
Entry fee: No entry fee
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4. Visit Penang State Museum and Art Gallery
One of the more intriguing things to see in Penang, this museum is considered one of Malaysia’s best-maintained museums and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right. This museum is a must-visit for everyone who loves to explore the local history and culture of a place. The museum boasts a diverse collection, housing everything from ancient relics, historical documents, weapons, paintings and photographs of royal families, and more.
Where: Pejabat Pentadbiran Tingkat 3, Bilik Orkid, Dewan Sri Pinang, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah 10450 George Town, Penang
When: 9 am – 5 pm (closed on Friday and special holidays)
Entry fee: No entry fee
5. Explore the beautiful Penang Botanical Garden
When you are talking of all the places to visit in Penang, the Penang Botanical Garden cannot be left off the list. Also known as the Waterfall Gardens, it is one of the island’s most magnificent examples of the natural beauty everywhere you look. You will find many exotic and indigenous plants here, making this a haven for nature lovers and one of the must-visit stops of Penang’s attractions.
Where: Kompleks Pentadbiran,Bangunan Pavilion, Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 George Town, Penang
When: 7 am – 7 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
6. Visit Fort Cornwallis
One for all history enthusiasts, Fort Cornwallis is a British-era building which now stands as the symbol of Penang’s colonial past. It was built to safeguard the port of Penang against pirates and is similar to the architecture of many British forts in India. Known as the largest standing fort in Malaysia, the fort is part of Malaysia’s history.
Where: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, 10200 George Town, Penang
When: 9 am – 10 pm
Entry fee: RM 5 (for children) and RM 10 (for adults) for Malaysian citizens and RM 10 (for children) and RM 20 (for adults) for foreign visitors (approx.)
7. Explore the charm of The Blue Mansion
Also known as the Cheong Fatt Tse, this is one of the most popular of all Penang’s attractions. It was also one of the shooting locations in the hit movie, ‘Crazy Rich Asians.’ A widely acclaimed example of iconic architecture, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This symbol of Penang’s remarkable culture is now also a boutique hotel. So, if you want to explore this architectural gem, book a tour or, better yet, book a stay at one of the gorgeous rooms here.
Where: 14, Leith Street 10200, George Town, Penang
When: 11 am – 2 pm
Entry fee: RM 16 onwards (approx.)
8. Explore the local flora and fauna at the Penang National Park
The Penang National Park is one of the best things to see in Penang if you want to explore the island's exotic beauty. Although the smallest national park in Malaysia, the park is home to some beautiful natural wonders like a seasonal lake, mangrove forests, and captivating beaches such as Monkey Beach and Pantai Kerachut Beach, along with a lush green cover all around. The park is also one of the most famous places to catch an exquisite sunset.
Where: Jalan Hassan Abas, 11050 George Town, Penang
When: 8 am – 4:30 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee