Top Things to Do in Penang Malaysia 2023: Your Ultimate Guide
Penang, a vast island off the coast of Malaya, is known for its beautiful beaches, UNESCO World Heritage site, and delicious hawker food. It’s a must-visit destination for every traveller looking to explore Malaysia’s diverse culture and history. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top things to do in Penang, including must-visit attractions, landmarks, and activities in 2023.
George Town’s main highlight: Penang History & Food
Exploring George Town is definitely the number one thing to do when visiting Penang. You’ll be astounded by the incredible architecture and captivating wall paintings. The city is famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and amazing street food. Here are some of the must-visit spots in George Town:
Street Art Penang
The street art in Penang was created by local artists in collaboration with the Penang government and has become a major attraction for tourists. Some of the most famous street art in Penang include a mural of a trishaw rider and a series of paintings known as the “Children on Bicycle” series. Keep your eyes open for art throughout the city! You can also pick up a Penang Street Art map from the airport or tourist information centre.
Clan Jetties
There is a saying in Penang that there is no Chinatown, for all Penang is Chinatown. The main jetties are Chew, Yeoh, Lim, and Tan, named after the names of the main Chinese clans. The jetties are connected by wooden walkways, allowing visitors to explore the different clans and their homes. Despite their age, the clan jetties are still inhabited by the descendants of the original settlers. As the clan jetties are located along the waterfront in George Town, you can have stunning views of the sea and the bustling city!
Wonder Food Museum
The Wonderfood Museum, located within a colonial building in Georgetown, is a grand spectacle of traditional Malaysian cuisine displayed in life-size replica. It is divided into three galleries – Info Zone, Wow Zone, and Educational Zone. You can find out interesting details about Malaysian cooking and culinary customs, as well as observe dishes from Indian, Chinese, and other cuisines. You can take a lot of funny photos to post on your Facebook and Instagram, a great place to visit with family and friends! The entrance fee is 28 Malaysian ringgit.
Little India Penang
Looking for something a little different in Penang? Check out Little India! Located in the heart of George Town, Little India is a vibrant and colourful neighbourhood and has lots of shops, restaurants, and temples to explore. The area is known for its delicious food, from spicy curries to sweet treats, and its bustling atmosphere.
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion was once the home of a wealthy Chinese-Malay merchant. Now it ranks as the 8th must-visit museum in Asia. The museum showcases the opulent lifestyle of Penang’s Peranakan community and it is filled with intricate hand-carved furniture, colourful tiles and mosaics, and an impressive collection of antiques and artefacts. We would highly recommend you take a tour with an in-house guide, who can help you better understand the history of the mansion and the Baba Nyonya heritage in Malaysia. The entrance fee is 25 Malaysian Ringgit.
Love Lane
Wonder how Love Lane got its name? Well, the local Chinese say the rich men who lived on Muntri Street kept their mistresses here. Now Love Lane is a cute little street filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great spot for a date night or a night out with friends. Plus, the street is named Love Lane, so how can you resist? Grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Just beware of the rickshaws, they love to zoom down Love Lane!
Cheong Fatt Tze’s Blue Mansion
The mansion is known for its stunning blue colour and intricate design, and it’s definitely a sight to behold. Plus, you can take a tour of the mansion and learn all about its history and the fascinating life of the mansion’s original owner Cheong Fatt Tze. This successful Chinese businessman once was a water carrier but then became one of Asia’s richest men and was known as the “Rockefeller of the East.”
The mansion has been meticulously restored and is now a museum showcasing the opulence and luxury of the Peranakan culture in Penang. It also provides a glimpse of the lifestyle of the wealthy Chinese merchants during the 19th century.
Penang Hill’s main highlight: Skywalk
Penang Hill, also known as Bukit Bendera, is a must-visit place for nature lovers. It’s a hill resort located 821 meters above sea level and is the perfect place to escape the heat and humidity of the city. The main attraction here is the Skywalk, which offers visitors a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings.
The Skywalk is a 230-meter-long glass walkway that stretches along the edge of a cliff. It is located at The Habitat Penang Hill, an ecotourism attraction that offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the rainforest.
Other activities on Penang Hill include hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the scenic train ride up the hill. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!
Batu Ferringhi’s main highlight: Beaches
No trip to Penang is complete without visiting its pristine beaches in Batu Ferringhi. The beaches here are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing.
One of the most popular beaches in Batu Ferringhi is the Monkey Beach, located at the end of a jungle trail. The beach is named after the monkeys that inhabit the area, so make sure to keep an eye out for them! Other notable beaches in Batu Ferringhi include the Ferringhi Beach and Teluk Bahang Beach.
Conclusion
Penang, Malaysia, is a destination that offers something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its delicious food, stunning beaches, and natural beauty, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Penang. Whether you are a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Penang has something to offer.
George Town, Penang Hill, and Batu Ferringhi are the main areas where most of the attractions and activities are located. From exploring the street art in George Town to enjoying the breathtaking views from the Skywalk on Penang Hill and relaxing on the beaches of Batu Ferringhi, there is something for everyone in Penang.
So, pack your bags, and get ready to explore one of the most exciting and vibrant destinations in Southeast Asia, Penang, Malaysia!