2025 Penang Island Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

#travelchecklist Penang, often hailed as the food capital of Malaysia, offers a gastronomic paradise for anyone looking to delve into the rich tapestry of flavors that Malaysian cuisine has to offer. From bustling street food stalls to quaint roadside eateries, Penang's must-eat dishes like Charcoal Char Kuey Teow, Oyster Omelette, Asam Laksa, and Duck Egg Char Kuey Teow represent a culinary heritage steeped in tradition and innovation. Charcoal Char Kuey Teow A visit to Penang would be incomplete without tasting Char Kuey Teow, especially the version fried over charcoal. This method imparts a unique smoky flavor to the dish, which features flat rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and chives. The high heat from the charcoal caramelizes the ingredients, creating a complex flavor profile that is both delicious and memorable. Oyster Omelette (Oh Chien) Another Penang specialty, the Oyster Omelette, combines small, plump oysters with a starchy batter and eggs, fried until crispy around the edges but still soft and gooey in the middle. It's often served with a spicy chili sauce that perfectly complements the rich taste of the oysters, making it a beloved choice among locals and visitors alike. Asam Laksa Asam Laksa is a tangy fish-based soup that is both spicy and sour, made from mackerel and tamarind juice. This noodle dish is then garnished with fresh mint, pineapple slices, thinly sliced onion, and a spoonful of shrimp paste, which deepens the flavor. Asam Laksa is a true representation of Penang's complex and bold flavors, a must-try for those who appreciate dishes that pack a punch. Duck Egg Char Kuey Teow For an even richer take on the traditional Char Kuey Teow, try the version that includes duck eggs instead of regular chicken eggs. The duck eggs provide a creamier texture and a richer flavor to the dish, making it a luxurious treat. This variation is particularly popular among food aficionados looking for an elevated version of this classic street food. Visitor Tips - Street Food Havens: Explore areas like Gurney Drive, Chulia Street, and the Penang Road for the best street food stalls. - Eating Etiquette: Be prepared to share tables with strangers, as this is common in busy food courts and hawker centers. - Local Beverages: Pair your meals with local drinks like 'Teh Tarik' or 'Lime Juice' to balance the rich flavors. #PenangFood #MalaysianCuisine #StreetFoodHeaven #PenangEats #FoodieAdventure

Georgetown, Penang The city of colours, food and street art. The Penang Hill Railway One station funicular railway which climb the Penang Hill. Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Pagoda area mainhall- most instagrammable place to click your pictures Enjoy the architural mix of Chinese, Thailand & Burmese culture Put in your wishing ribbon for good luck Penang isn't just about beautiful scenery and island, its also about vibrant culture, unique local shops and delicious foods. Immerse yourself in the legacy of a community that has shaped the heart and soul of this historic city. #penang #penangart #penangisland #penangcity

Founders Cafe Hutton 🍽️ is a cozy eatery known for its warm ambiance and delicious food offerings. The cafe likely emphasizes quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a good meal. These are signature dishes I’ve tried: 🥯🥩 The Angus beef bagel topped with sweet potato and French fries combines savory Angus beef with the sweetness of sweet potatoes and the crunch of French fries. The Angus beef is typically juicy and flavorful, providing a robust base for this unique combination. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and a soft texture, contrasting with the crispy French fries that add a delightful crunch. Together, these ingredients create a satisfying and indulgent meal, blending different flavors and textures into a memorable dining experience 🤗 🫓 🥘 The OG quesadillas are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Inside, you'll find fluffy scrambled eggs cooked to perfection, providing a soft and creamy base. Topped with grated parmesan and pomegranate. Complementing the eggs are slices of savory chicken ham, adding a meaty richness to each bite. To balance the flavors, there are also slices of fresh tomatoes, offering a juicy and slightly tangy contrast. All these ingredients are enveloped in a warm tortilla and grilled to crispy perfection, creating a mouthwatering dish that blends savory, creamy, and fresh flavors harmoniously. It's a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying and comforting meal at the cafe 😋 🥯🫐 The sweet and salty bagel starts with a hand-roasted bagel that provides a crunchy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Spread generously on the bagel is a mixed berry cream cheese and maple syrup, offering a sweet and tangy flavor profile that perfectly complements the savory elements. You'll find crispy streaky bacon, adding a rich and salty contrast that enhances the overall taste experience. Sliced bananas are layered on top, providing a natural sweetness and a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Sprinkled over the bananas are chia seeds, adding a subtle crunch and a nutritional boost. It's a popular choice for those looking to indulge in a flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch at the cafe 😚 #travelanywhere #penang #cafe #bagel #malaysiatrip

#malaysiatrip 📍Halzan Penang Visited this pretty café that is conveniently located at the connection between Gurney Plaza and G Hotel, and we had a great dining experience here. The café is stylish and minimalist, love the white on white interior decor, very instgrammable and every corner is picture perfect! Love the ample flow of natural lighting into the café, the lively and happening ambiance! The café was pretty crowded during our visit on a weekend afternoon. The tables were quite near, wish that they are more further apart. Food was served quickly, came in big portion and was very presentable and pretty to look at!

#malaysiatrip 📍Forest Cloud Beverage Company, Penang Visited this café located in the heart of Georgetown Penang island multiple times as this is one of my favourite coffee store in town! The café is a small and cozy one, boasting minimalist interior. There is only limited seatings available in store, might not be suitable for larger groups of patrons and can be a little crowded during weekends! The interior is rather sleek and instagrammable. Love the seats by the windows overlooking the bustling and busy street of Georgetown. Specialising in coffee, their coffee is one of my favourite of all time, with strong coffee aroma and well balance between their coffee shot and milk! Ideal place for a little date and for small talks!

#winhkflight 📍Starbucks Reserve Island Glades DT Visited this newly opened Starbucks Reserve in Island Glades. Conveniently located on the main road of Island Glades, it is one of the busiest road and one of the main road to pass by while going to town area from Bayan Lepas area. There are a good number of parking spots available and for EV cars as well, so no worries on that. Love the architecture, with huge glass panels and vertical wooden panels. The interior is also amazingly beautiful! Love the cozy set up with comfortable cushioned seats. There are both seats by the bar and normal seats. The entire space is spacious and can fit large groups of customers! Love the environment, lively and not too loud, great place to get some work done, have a friend’s meet up. Love it! Would recommend! I wish to travel to Hong Kong for the food!

#2024wish 📍Sweetbar Café 48, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Penang Visited this quaint little café in the heart of Penang island! It is located near the Hin Bus Depot. It’s a cute little café, with minimalistic decoration and that the store is in black and white, so artsy! Great place to have a coffee or maybe two, have small talks and chill, hang out! The café is quite small, might not be able to cater large group of customers. They have a variety of coffee blends to choose from, we both chose the nutty ones! Love that the staff took his time to explain about the coffee blends to us, filled with enthusiasm and we felt welcomed! Would love to return to try other specialty coffee blends, their drip coffee and desserts! In 2024, I would like to visit Seoul, Korea!

Penang is an island and state in Malaysia on the western coast of the peninsula in the Andaman Sea. Located a few kilometers from the coast and connected to the mainland by a bridge. Penang is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia. The capital of the state and the island, the city of George Town, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List due to the huge number of historical monuments and attractions that attract many tourists every year. Beach holidays in Penang are poorly developed. There is only one full-fledged beach resort here - this is the Batu Ferringhi area. The coast is cleaned here, the beach infrastructure is well developed. But everything is spoiled by the water, which is almost always muddy, and sometimes even brings garbage to the shore. All this is the result of the proximity to major industrial centers and ports on the island and the mainland. #createwithtrip #staycation #beachlife

As a once primary hub for trading on the Strait of Malacca, this place over the years a become multicultural centre with a rich history. Here you will find old British colonial buildings, an arrary of Chinese shophouses, temples, Little India and a number of Mosques. We stayed at the Frame Guesthouse, a 10 minute walk from the port. Around the corner from our hotel , Frame Guesthouse, was a falafel stand with food going for as little as 10RM, right next door is a Jamaican themed bar blasting reggae anthems. Literally every evening we would be out at this falafel stand with a drink in hand. What better way to make memories than with strangers in a bar. Penang is a vibrant city with an outstanding number of places to enjoy the nightlife. Just go out and have some fun. #couplestrip#bestislandtraveltowns

penang is an architectural and heritage gem #givethanks

There is a The Habitat Natural Ecological Park in the Peak District of Penang Hill. The park's tropical rainforest has a history of 130 million years. There is a 230-meter-long natural trail that explores the rainforests, trees, insects, birds, reptiles and mammals, and is rich in biodiversity. However, if you enter The Habitat, you need to purchase another ticket. The fare is 47.51MYR. I personally think it is quite cost-effective because there is a Ring Top Walker on the Tree Top Walk. Seeing the 360-degree panorama of Penang is the highest view point on the island. The height of the observation deck is 13 meters, just above the center rest area, which can accommodate 120 people at a time. From the air, the pillars standing on the roots are straight into the sky. Like a crown, it is like a ring set in a green forest. On the observation deck, the breeze blows, the extra comfort, standing on the side overlooking the old city of George, can take a panoramic view of Georgetown.

Penang Hill, Malay is Bukit Bendera, Bukit is the mountain, Bendera is the flag, Penang Chinese call it the flag mountain, and English is the meaning of Penang Hill, Penang Hill. The flag-raising mountain is located in the middle of the island. The main foothills of Penang include Western Hill, Tiger Hill and Strawberry Hill. It is a summer resort for local residents. The main peak is 830 meters high from Penang. Since the old British officials used to live here, the Yamashita soldiers used the semaphore to convey important messages, which is the origin of the name of the flag mountain. [Shangqi Mountain Travel Guide] Location: Central of Penang Island, about 8.1 km from George Street Art, 8 km from Love Lane, 8.7 km from Zhouqiao and 3.8 km from Kek Lok Si Temple . Transportation: There are three modes of transportation to Penang Hill, 1, from No. 204 bus from George Town to Shengqishan Station; 2, it is relatively quick and convenient to rent a book from Batu Ferringhi; Hh/3, self-driving, when driving to Air Itam, you can find Penang Flag Hill Road tickets: MYR 30 for adults and MYR 15 for children, all including cable cars. Changqishan has one of the earliest Swiss-made cable railway systems in Asia, plus a small cable car system that allows visitors to easily climb the flag mountain since 1923. The train going up the mountain slowly passes through the steep slopes and turns to the middle of the mountain.

The round-trip cable car of Shengqi Mountain is still very bright. The cable cars we often ride are all airborne. The cable car here is similar to the moving car, but only a short one, and there is a diagonal in the middle of the whole track. The pulley, which is the earliest in Asia to use the Swiss-made cable railway system. Remember, if you want to enjoy the scenery along the road, it is best to choose the position at the front or the last two. Shengqi Mountain, also known as the Penang Mountain, is about 830 meters above sea level. Standing on the observation deck on the top of the hill, you can see the panoramic view of Penang. This time it was really lucky. I looked at Penang in the coming week before going out, but it gave me another surprise, thank you. The flag mountain is not very big, and there are not many places to see on the mountain. You can walk around in an hour or so. If you are hungry, you can go to the restaurant on the hillside to have a meal. It is estimated to be quite good.

Penang Hill, also known as the Penang Hill, is located at the north of central Penang at an altitude of 821 meters and is the highest point in Penang. There are two ways to go up the mountain, the cable car and the trekking. The fare for the cable car is 30MB, and the ten-minute fare is available (the queue time is uncertain). At the top of the mountain are mosques, Hindu temples, and a botanical garden with a battery car. Several viewing platforms are the best point to overlook the panoramic view of Penang. If you don't plan to go to the Botanical Garden, it is recommended to go to Penang Hill at 4-5 pm, you can see a beautiful sunset. The temperature on the mountain is lower than the mountain. If it hits the rain, it is recommended to bring a small jacket, if conditions permit. The cable car going up and down the mountain has to sit in the first row, especially down the mountain, a little low-speed roller coaster.

#celebrateit Penang Island is a beautiful island with nicknames such as "Pearl of the East" and "Emerald of the Indian Ocean", and has long been known as one of Malaysia's leading resorts. Georgetown, in the centre of Penang Island, was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2008 as Malaysia's first cultural heritage. It is characterised by a cityscape where you can feel a multi-ethnic culture such as Indian and Malay, centred on Chinese descent.

Penang is full of fashionable general stores! This time, we will introduce two particularly recommended fashionable stores 🫶 [P.66] P.66 is a select store located on Lebuh Campbell Street in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia. It mainly sells stationery and general goods, as well as works by local artists and Japanese products. The interior of the store has a Japanese atmosphere, and there is also a cafe space! It is popular with locals as you can enjoy sandwiches and drinks. You can purchase fashionable postcards 👍 Opening hours are 9am to 6pm Monday to Sunday. [Batek Lah] Batek-Lah Collection is a batik specialty store located in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia. Lim Trading, which was founded in 1980, rebranded as Batek-Lah Collection in 2012, and James Lim Chin Soon is currently taking over the family business. The store sells a wide variety of hand-painted and block-printed batik products, including ponchos, shirts, scarves, and reusable cotton face masks. I bought an eye mask and a passport case here, and they were all durable, cute, and reasonably priced! I highly recommend them. 📍Location: 158, Jalan Transfer, 10050 George Town, Penang, Malaysia #Traveling Abroad

Unbeatable scenery in the small island of Penang!! From the sunset of Penang bridge to Teluk bahang water dams, durian farms along the hills road 💐💐#travel #penang #naturalwonders #familytravel #hideaway #beautiful_malaysia#

#newyearnewtrip Nature’s Playground Awaits! 🌿✨ Penang Island is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a perfect blend of sun, sea, and greenery. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the great outdoors, this island has it all. On my recent trip, I uncovered two gems that are must-visits for anyone craving a relaxing escape. Batu Ferringhi: Sun, Sand, and Serenity 🌊☀️ This famous stretch of beach is the ultimate getaway for those seeking tranquil coastal vibes. With golden sands, gentle waves, and a stunning sunset view, Batu Ferringhi is a postcard come to life. Take a leisurely walk, sip on a refreshing coconut drink, or simply lounge by the shore while soaking in the sea breeze. For the more adventurous, water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing are just steps away! Penang Hill: A View From the Top 🌄🌺 Rising above the island, Penang Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, lush forests, and even the distant sea. The journey up via the iconic funicular train is an experience in itself! Once at the summit, wander through the cooler mountain air, visit The Habitat for a canopy walk among the treetops, or sip coffee at a café with views that will leave you speechless. It’s the perfect spot to reconnect with nature and unwind. A Relaxing Retreat You Can’t Miss 🏝️🛤️ Penang Island is a haven for anyone in need of a nature-filled escape. Whether it’s the calming waves of Batu Ferringhi or the peaceful heights of Penang Hill, these spots remind you to slow down, breathe, and savor the beauty around you. So, pack your sunscreen and walking shoes—Penang is calling! 🏞️

#newyearnewtrip Old Soon Kee @ Burmah Road, Georgetown, Penang. Previously located at Kimberley Street, Old Soon Kee is known for its signature Chew Kuih and roasted meat since its opening in 2021. They have since relocated to a couple of places before settling down at the current location a stone's throw away from Mekio at Kinta Lane. Old Soon Kee offers a bigger menu now but the popular orders are still the Chwee Kuih, Char Siew and Spinach Noodles. Spinach noodle it's so chewy and nice. Overall of the noodle and chicken quiet nice. Old Soon Kee 📍Address: 65, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang 🕰️Business Hours:9:30 - 8:30pm 💰Average Price per Person: RM 1 -RM20 #thingstodo #travel #couplestrip #penang #foodie

#newyearnewtrip #penang #foodie #travel Penang, often hailed as Malaysia’s food paradise, is a haven for those seeking authentic hawker delights. Rooted in rich cultural heritage, Penang’s street food scene is a melting pot of flavors that bring comfort to both locals and travelers alike. Here’s a list of scrumptious hawker food around Penang: Photo 1: Fried Oyster Pancake, Asam Laksa, Lotus Seed Dessert, Peanut Mochi Balls etc at Pulau Tikus Food Court Photo 2: Prawn Mee and Wan Ton Noodles at Bagan Ajam Market Photo 3: Kuey Teow Soup at Ah Boy Koay Teow Th’ng Photo 4: Toasted Benggali Bread with Teh Tarik at Lebuh Union Photo 5: Loh Mee and Lobak at Hai Beng Kopitiam Photo 6: Duck Egg Char Kuey Teow at BM Ming Qin Char Kuey Teow (Michellin Star) Photo 7: Duck Egg Char Kuey Teow at BM Car Wash (My personal favourite! ❤️) Comment your must-eat hawker food in Penang!

#familytravel #penangstay #penangfood

“Explore the lush trails of Penang National Park (RM for Locals and RM50 for foreigners!) and the serene Penang Botanical Garden (RM10 for foreigners, free for locals). Nature at its finest! 🌿✨ #PenangNature” 🗓️Itinerary Scheduling: Penang botanical garden can be done in 1-2 hours. Penang National Park requires 2 hours hiking + Speed boat ride (RM120) to monkey beach and back to entrance. Remember to spend time relaxing. Don’t rush your day!

A holiday in Penang with your loved one is like stepping into a world where culture, romance, and nature intertwine seamlessly. Imagine waking up to the soft glow of dawn, holding hands as you ascend Penang Hill on the funicular train. At the summit, the panoramic view of the island, kissed by the golden morning light, feels like a moment frozen in time. The crisp air and serene surroundings create a magical start to your day.

#AsiaTravelRecord Located about a 25-minute drive from Georgetown, Gok Lok Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. Its magnificent architecture and beautiful scenery attract visitors. There is a Kannon statue, a main hall, and a pagoda, but admission is free for all temples except the pagoda. Gok Lok Temple is a fusion of Chinese Buddhism and Malaysian culture, and the architecture incorporates Sino-Burmese elements. Multiple buildings are arranged in a staircase, and the entire temple spreads out over the slope of a hill. Visiting Khu Lok Su Temple in Penang offers a unique experience that is full of spirituality, history, and culinary charm. This iconic destination is sure to captivate any traveler!

Had a delightful stop at a Michelin-recognized shop for some amazing nyonya kuih! The flavours were on point – truly enjoyed each bite. We'll definitely be back for more!#deliciousfood #nyonyakuih #penang

A small island and full of historical view and tasty foods. ##penang2ndbridge

Penang, known for its rich culture and historical charm, is now a hub for modern cafes that cater to foodies looking for unique experiences. If you're planning to explore the café scene here, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a roundup of some must-visit spots for your ultimate café-hopping journey! 1. Chinahouse Chinahouse is more than just a café—it’s an experience. Located in a heritage building, it’s Penang's longest café, stretching across three restored colonial buildings. Inside, you’ll find a bakery with over 30 types of cakes, a gallery, and even live performances at night. If you’re a lover of art, music, and sweets, this spot is a must. Fun Fact: Chinahouse is home to Malaysia’s longest cake display! 2. Il Bacaro For those craving authentic Italian vibes in the heart of Penang, Il Bacaro delivers a taste of Venice. Situated within Campbell House, this cozy café blends traditional Italian dishes with Penang’s contemporary café culture. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for enjoying a hearty meal or an espresso. Don’t miss their wood-fired pizzas—they’re a crowd favorite! 3. Wheeler’s Coffee Located in the bustling Love Lane, Wheeler’s Coffee is a popular spot for both locals and travelers. It’s famous for its all-day breakfast and brunch menu, paired perfectly with well-crafted coffees. The café has a laid-back vibe, perfect for sipping on a latte while people-watching. 4. Mugshot Café Another gem on Chulia Street, Mugshot Café has built a reputation for its yogurt and bagels, which are made fresh daily. With rustic, minimalist decor and a cozy atmosphere, this café is ideal for a relaxed breakfast or afternoon snack. Highlight:Try their signature mango yogurt—it’s a refreshing treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy. Penang’s café scene offers something for every modern foodie, from heritage buildings to European-inspired eateries. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect cake or a stellar coffee, these cafés provide unforgettable culinary experiences. So grab your friends, bring your camera, and start your café-hopping adventure! #penangtrip #malaysiatrip