Top 15 Things to Do in Penang That Will Spice up Your Travel!
The last time I was in Penang, I was sweating bullets, holding a map upside down, and looking like a complete lost tourist.
I mean, ask me how I ended up standing next to an uncle selling the best char kway teow I’ve ever tasted… (Spoiler alert: I didn’t even know what char kway teow was before this trip)
But that’s Penang for you—full of surprises and bucket-list-worthy experiences around every corner.
So, let’s ditch the boring guidebooks. Here’s my list of the best things to do in Penang that will make you laugh, eat, and wonder why you didn’t visit sooner!
Wander the streets of artistic George Town for heritage sights
– Media credit: veruberu77
Walking through George Town is like flipping through the pages of a history book, except with way more colors and the occasional aroma of street food. The streets are lined with murals and street art that feel like they’ve jumped out of a comic book.
You’ll want to snap a pic with the famous “Kids on Bicycle” mural by Ernest Zacharevic. But it’s not just about the art; with its UNESCO World Heritage status, George Town is the perfect place to explore for anyone interested in a cultural deep dive.
You can also check out the Pinang Peranakan Mansion or make a stop at the Khoo Kongsi Clan House, which is an architecture goal in itself. For a snack break, head to the nearby street markets to get some of Penang’s famous asam laksa and ais kacang.
| Pro tip: Try to visit in the late afternoon when the sun isn’t as relentless, and consider renting a bike to cover more ground in less time. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try a trishaw ride for a leisurely tour with a touch of old-school charm. |
Hike up Penang Hill for breathtaking views
– Media credit: sahagunadrian
Website: http://penanghill.gov.my/hikingtrails/
Address: 478, Jalan Pokok Ceri
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: Free to visit
Penang Hill offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city, and the hike up is a great way to get your daily steps in. Once you hit the top, the view is just incredible—you can see all the way across George Town and beyond.
The best part is that the Habitat at Penang Hill awaits you with its treetop walkway. You get to stroll through the rainforest at canopy level, and the views from this height are a sight for sore eyes.
While you can hike all the way up if you’re up for it, there’s also a funicular train option if you want to save time or your legs. The hilltop offers plenty of shade and resting spots.
| Pro tip: Remember to bring a good pair of binoculars if you have them; they’re great for spotting birds and really enhancing your viewing experience. |
Scream and laugh at ESCAPE Penang’s thrilling rides
– Media credit: escapemy
Website: http://www.escape.my/pg
Address: 828, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost:
Day Admission:
- Children ages 0 to 3 – Free
- Junior kid (ages 4 to 12) – $86 to $122
- Ages 13 to 60 – $129 to $184
- Senior (Ages 60 and above) – Free
ESCAPE Penang is packed with rides and outdoor activities that will appeal to everyone’s inner child. And trust me, whether you’re zip-lining across treetops or challenging your balance on the monkey business ropes course, this place is great.
Plus, the innovative obstacle courses and water park area add a splash of excitement—quite literally! The park is cleverly divided into dry and wet sections, so on a hot day, the water slides are the ultimate refreshment.
There’s even Slide the City, which holds the title for the world’s longest tube water slide—definitely a must-try for thrill-seekers. And for those who enjoy a more leisurely pace, there are plenty of relaxing options, such as forest walks and scenic trails.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to book your tickets online in advance; the lines can get long, and online tickets are often cheaper. And if you can, plan your visit for a weekday when the park is less crowded, so you can maximize your time on the attractions. |
Cuddle with cute teddy bears at the Teddyville Museum
– Media credit: teddyvillemuseumpg
Website: https://teddyvillemuseum-online.globaltix.com/
Address: 56, Jalan Low Yat, Puncak Ria
Contact details: +60 4 890 0535
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Cost:
- Standard Admission – $26
Let’s be real—the chance to cuddle teddy bears as an adult without it being weird is rare, and TeddyVille Museum lets you do just that. This place has gigantic teddy exhibits and displays that depict Penang’s heritage through the eyes of these cuddly buddies.
Every corner here tells a different story, from the smallest miniatures to the largest human-sized bears. You’ll find bears dressed as iconic Penang characters and national figures, all adding a charming twist to learning about Malaysia’s culture and history.
The museum is suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family outing. There’s also a souvenir shop at the end where you can pick out your own bear buddy.
| Pro tip: It’s better to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and get better photo opportunities. And don’t rush through the exhibits—often the bears hide little Easter eggs in the details worth stopping to admire. |
Explore butterfly wonderland at Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
– Media credit: myentopia
Website: http://www.entopia.com/
Address: 830, Jalan Teluk Bahang
Contact details: +60 4 888 8111
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Malaysians – $45
- Non-Malaysians – $55
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is like stepping into a kaleidoscope, where hundreds of butterflies flutter around you in what feels like a scene from a fantasy film. With over 4,000 butterflies of various species, this sanctuary is an enchanting experience.
The farm also aims to educate visitors on butterfly conservation and the wider insect kingdom. The farm is divided into natureland and cocoon sections. Natureland is where you’ll find the free-flying butterflies along with other insects, reptiles, and amphibians.
Meanwhile, Cocoon is an engaging indoor discovery centre that offers interactive exhibits and fun activities to learn about the life cycle of butterflies and other creepy crawlies. If you’re lucky, you might witness a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis.
| Pro tip: The area provides amenities like a café and lots of shaded spots to relax. Opt to wear brightly colored clothing to attract the butterflies—they might just mistake you for a flower and land on you, perfect for a unique photo opportunity! |
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Il Bacaro
– Media credit: ilbacaropenang
Website: http://campbellhousepenang.com/il-bacaro/
Address: Campbell House, 106, Lebuh Campbell, Georgetown
Contact details: +60 4 261 8290
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 11 PM
Cost: $$$
If you’re craving some serious Italian food while you’re in Penang, you absolutely have to check out Il Bacaro. They whip up their dishes with fresh, authentic ingredients—think homemade pasta, rich sauces, and traditionally baked pizzas.
Even better, you can start off with some antipasti like bruschetta with chopped tomatoes and basil or calamari fritti. For the main course,you can try their pappardelle al ragu di cinghiale or the richly flavoured tagliolini all’ anatra.
You can also go for their set lunch to taste a bit of everything. And let’s not forget the drinks since they serve some really top-notch Italian wines and superb cocktails to complement your meal.
| Pro tip: If you’re not sure what to order, just ask—they’ll steer you in the right direction and might even introduce you to something you wouldn’t have thought to try. |
Be part of the art at the Penang 3D Trick Art Museum
– Media credit: penangtrickart
Website: https://penangtrickart.com/
Address: 10, Lebuh Penang, George Town
Contact details: +60 4 263 1628
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Cost:
- Adults (ages 13 and above) – $18 (Malaysian), $28 (Non-Malaysian)
- Children (ages 4 to 12) – $12 (Malaysian), $18 (Non-Malaysian)
- Senior (ages 60 and above) – $12
Penang 3D Trick Art Museum is a blast whether you’re with family, friends, or just exploring solo. The museum is packed with super cool 3D paintings and installations that make for awesome photo ops.
So, how does it work? You pose with the art in just the right way, and it creates a visual illusion, making it look like you’re riding a magic carpet, escaping a giant monster, or balancing on a tightrope.
There are dozens of scenes and scenarios set up to trick the eye and spark some genuine laughs. Plus, each artwork comes with a small guide on where to stand and how to pose, which makes the whole experience a lot easier and way more fun.
| Pro tip: Opt to visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid the crowds. This way, you’ll have more time and space to get those perfect shots without the wait. |
Discover wildlife and trails at Penang National Park
Website: https://www.wildlife.gov.my/index.php/en/11-info/154-penang-national-park
Address: Pejabat Taman Negara P. Pinang jalan Hassan Abbas
Contact details: +60 4 881 3530
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Cost:
- Adults – $50
- Children (ages 3 to 12) – $10
- Ages 3 and below – Free
*This only applies when you’re visiting Turtle Beach or planning to hike.
If the great outdoors is more your thing, then you really need to hit up Penang National Park. This place is massive, with loads of different trails and paths that cater to all kinds of hikers.
The trails lead you through lush rainforests and along beautiful, unspoiled beaches. And if you want a bit of adventure, head over to the Canopy Walkway—an awesome bridge suspended high in the trees.
For the more adventurous, the hike to the Muka Head Lighthouse is worth the effort, with stunning views out over the Andaman Sea. Apart from hiking and wildlife, there’s also a small turtle sanctuary that’s worth checking out.
| Pro tip: Do pack some snacks and plenty of water, as amenities within the park are pretty basic. Also, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring insect repellent—the trails can get a bit rugged and the bugs can be pretty relentless. |
Marvel at the stunning Cheong Fatt Tze—The Blue Mansion
– Media credit: cheongfatttzemansion
Website: http://www.cheongfatttzemansion.com/
Address: 14, Lebuh Leith, George Town
Contact details: +60 4 262 0006
Operating hours:
- Check in – 2 PM
- Check out – 12 PM
Cost: $$$
Cheong Fatt Tze, aka The Blue Mansion, is a stunning 19th-century mansion and a masterpiece of Chinese architecture. It’s got this iconic indigo-blue exterior that’s super photogenic and looks just as incredible in real life as it does in photos.
The mansion was built by Cheong Fatt Tze, a prominent Chinese businessman, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into the Peranakan culture and the opulent lifestyle of the era. Guided tours are offered multiple times a day, and they’re packed with interesting tidbits.
You’ll get to see beautifully preserved rooms, intricate woodwork, and some seriously impressive antique furniture. Plus, the mansion also has a small museum showcasing artefacts from the period, which adds even more context to the tour.
| Pro tip: Remember to book your tour in advance online, especially during peak seasons and weekends. The tours can sell out quickly, and you wouldn’t want to miss out. |
Immerse in vibrant culture at Penang Little India
– Media credit: bj_jeevth
Little India in Penang is like taking a mini-trip to India without ever leaving Malaysia. Here, you’ll find colourful sarees hanging at market stalls, the enticing smell of spices everywhere, and Bollywood music playing in the background.
The shops here sell everything from fresh flowers and vegetables to gold jewelry and traditional Indian sweets. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, especially if you’re looking for something unique and authentic.
One of the best parts about wandering through Little India is stumbling upon the temples. The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is particularly impressive, with its intricate carvings and vibrant colours.
| Pro tip: If you plan on entering some temples, remember to respect the local customs—remove your shoes before entering and be mindful of ongoing rituals. Shops here close at 10 PM, so it’s better to plan your visit early. |
Feast your eyes on food masterpieces at Wonderfood Museum
– Media credit: wonderfoodmuseum
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Wonderfoodmuseum/
Address: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town
Contact details: +60 4 251 9095
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Cost:
- Adults – $15
- Children – $5
Wonderfood Museum takes food appreciation to a whole new level, displaying larger-than-life replicas of Penang’s famous local dishes. We’re talking about intricately detailed sculptures made to look exactly like laksa, char kway teow, and much more.
The exhibits here also delve into the cultural and historical significance of these foods through detailed descriptions and backstories. This makes it not only visually captivating but also incredibly informative.
One thing you absolutely have to do is explore the themed sections—each one offers something different and equally fascinating. There’s even a section that humorously portrays the sometimes exaggerated portions in contemporary fine dining.
| Pro tip: The museum has a gift shop where you can grab some quirky food-themed souvenirs as a memento. Make sure your camera is fully charged before you go; you’re going to want to take a lot of pictures! |
Delight in fragrant plants at Tropical Spice Garden
– Media credit: tropicalspicegarden
Website: http://www.tropicalspicegarden.com/
Address: Lot 595 Mukim, 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang
Contact details: +60 1 242 36797
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Cost:
Entrance to the garden (includes free audio guide):
- Adult – $28
- Child – $15
- Senior – $20
(includes free audio guide):
- Adult – $48
- Child – $28
- Senior – $38
Other activities:
- Forest Bathing – $75
- Hands-on Cooking Class – $260 (Adult), $130 (Ages 8 to 14)
Tucked away in the lush greenery, Tropical Spice Garden features over 500 varieties of tropical flora and spices. Roaming through the garden paths, you’ll get to see and smell plants like lemongrass, cinnamon, and nutmeg growing in their natural habitat.
The garden offers guided tours, which are highly recommended because the guides are great and will share interesting tidbits about the plants and their uses, both culinary and medicinal. Plus, the storytelling makes the entire experience so much great.
There’s also a lovely café where you can grab a refreshing drink infused with some of the garden’s own spices. Don’t miss the spice terrarium and the tropical spice family trail, where you can get hands-on with tactile displays and engage in fun activities.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check the little shop where you can pick up spices to bring home, perfect for recreating some Malaysian flavors in your own kitchen. Also, wear comfortable walking shoes, as the garden paths can be quite uneven and you’ll want to explore every nook and cranny. |
Craft your own art at the Glass Museum Penang
– Media credit: ibox_bowie
Website: http://glassmuseumpenang-online.globaltix.com/
Address: 6, Wisma Cheok Holdings, Jalan Burma
Contact details: +60 4 251 9881
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- $30 (with glass bottle painting)
For anyone with a creative streak, the Glass Museum Penang should be on your radar. The museum encourages hands-on participation, so you get to dive right into the craft.
Whether you’re making a mosaic, a piece of jewelry, or any other glass art, it’s such a rewarding experience to see your own creation come to life. The museum itself is filled with awe-inspiring glass artworks from local artists.
From intricate stained glass windows to modern glass sculptures, each piece is more mesmerizing than the last. Additionally, the museum offers in-depth workshops that cater to all skill levels, so you don’t need to be a Picasso to join in.
| Pro tip: Definitely check out the massive kaleidoscope—it’s one of the highlights and makes for an incredibly cool photo op. There’s also a gallery shop where you can purchase a variety of glass items, from delicate ornaments to functional glassware. |
Visit the grand and intricate Kek Lok Si Temple
– Media credit: wanderingbookseller
Website: https://kekloksitemple.com/
Address: Jln Balik Pulau, 11500 Ayer Itam
Contact details: +60 4 828 3317
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Cost: Free entry
A visit to Penang just isn’t complete without spending some time at the Kek Lok Si Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, and it’s nothing short of magnificent.
The temple is a sprawling complex, decked out in stunning architecture that blends Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences. One of the standout features has to be the massive statue of the Goddess of Mercy and the striking pagoda.
The temple is also well known for its impressive display of lights during the Chinese New Year and Wesak Day. Whether you’re spiritually inclined or simply appreciate remarkable architecture, Kek Lok Si never disappoints.
| Pro tip: Make sure to take the inclined lift up to see the massive bronze statue of Kuan Yin and enjoy the stunning views from the top. Don’t skip the turtle pond, where you can feed the resident turtles; it’s considered a symbol of longevity and good fortune. |
Reflect at the beautiful sea-facing Floating Mosque
– Media credit: mssawordtravellers
Website: N/A
Address: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah
Contact details: +60 1 240 51324
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 6 PM
Cost: Free entry
Built on stilts and seemingly floating above the sea, The Floating Mosque of Tanjung Bungah offers a serene atmosphere with spectacular ocean views. Unlike many other mosques, this one is exceptionally peaceful, surrounded by water.
The architecture alone is worth the visit; you’ll marvel at the elegant design and the intricate details that went into its construction. It’s particularly beautiful at high tide when it appears to literally float on the water, making for a stunning photo opportunity.
If you happen to visit during prayer times, it’s fascinating to hear the call to prayer echoing over the waves. It’s also a great spot to relax and reflect, especially around sunset when the colors of the sky are reflected on the water.
| Pro tip: Remember to dress modestly out of respect, and consider bringing a headscarf if you’re a woman. To get the best photos and avoid crowds, try to visit either early in the morning or just before sunset. |