Things to do in Penang
Discover the best attractions and experiences Penang has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Penang's enduring legacies through grand forts, ornate clan houses, and historic mansions.
Fort Cornwallis
An 18th-century coastal fort and a cornerstone of Penang's colonial history.
Khoo Kongsi
A spectacular Chinese clan house in George Town with intricate carvings and courtyards.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
Iconic blue-painted mansion showcasing 19th-century Chinese architecture and interiors.
Museums
Delve into Penang's diverse cultures and history through its museums and heritage galleries.
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
A well-preserved mansion illustrating Peranakan culture with period rooms.
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
Museum and memorial honoring the founding father, set in a historic George Town building.
Penang State Museum
Exhibits on Penang's history, multicultural heritage, and daily life.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites reveal Penang's multicultural fabric, from temples to mosques and churches.
Kek Lok Si Temple
One of Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temples with a towering pagoda.
Kapitan Keling Mosque
Historic mosque marking Penang's Malay-Muslim heritage in a bustling area.
St. George's Church
Colonial-era church with tall spires and stained glass in George Town.
National & Theme Parks
Penang's natural landscapes offer wildlife encounters, coastal trails, and hilltop viewpoints.
Penang National Park
Coastal rainforest reserve with jungle trails, beaches, and viewpoints.
The Habitat Penang Hill
Canopy walks and panoramic views atop Penang Hill.
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
Interactive wildlife park focusing on butterflies, insects, and nature education.
Neighborhoods
Different neighborhoods showcase Penang's multicultural life, markets, and waterfront scenes.
George Town Old Town
UNESCO-listed historic core with colorful shophouses and street art.
Batu Ferringhi
Coastal strip known for its beaches, markets, and seaside vibe.
Pulau Tikus
Residential area with markets, temples, and a multicultural quarter.
Air Itam
Neighborhood home to Kek Lok Si Temple and hillside views.
Free Things to Do
Some of Penang's best experiences come free, from street art to beaches.
George Town street art & murals
Self-guided tour to discover Penang's famous wall art.
Batu Ferringhi Beach sunset stroll
Relax on the sand as the sun dips over the sea.
Clan Jetties of Penang (Chew Jetty)
Walk along stilt houses and watch fishermen at work.
Penang Botanic Gardens stroll
Green escape in the city with shaded paths and ponds.
Gastronomy
Penang's street food is world-famous; savor iconic dishes and flavorful bites.
Char Kway Teow
Stir-fried flat noodles with egg, seafood, and lard or oil for flavor.
Assam Laksa
Tangy fish-based noodle soup with herbs and tamarind.
Nasi Kandar
Muslim-Indian-influenced rice with a variety of curries and sides.
Hokkien Mee
Rich prawn broth with noodles, pork, and greens.
Cendol
Sweet dessert with coconut milk, pandan jelly, and palm sugar syrup.
Nightlife
Evenings light up with bars, night markets, and lively streets.
Chulia Street & Love Lane nightlife
Casual bars and live music along George Town's famed lanes.
Upper Penang Road nightlife
Bustling strip with pubs, lounges, and late-night eateries.
Gurney Drive area bars
Seafront venues offering sunset drinks and city views.
Entertainment
Cultural venues and performance spaces host music, theatre, and art.
The Top at Komtar
Multi-level entertainment complex with observation decks and sky activities.
Penang Performing Arts Centre (PenangPAC)
Venue for local theatre, dance, and music performances.
Hin Bus Depot Art Centre
Contemporary arts space hosting exhibitions and live events.
Sports
Stay active with golf, water sports, and nature hikes.
Bukit Jambul Country Club
Golf course set amid hills, offering a challenging round.
Batu Ferringhi water sports
Jet skis, parasailing, and other sea adventures.
Penang National Park hiking trails
Trail-based outdoor activities through jungle and beaches.
Off the Track
Off-the-beaten-path experiences offer a deeper glimpse of local life.
Peranakan cooking class
Learn to cook Penang's Peranakan dishes with a local chef.
Batik painting workshop
Hands-on artistry exploring traditional textile design.
Night photography walk of George Town
Capture the city’s lit streets and murals after dark.