YOUR LOCAL GUIDE TO PENANG

Explore Penang
Beyond the Ordinary.

Discover the best of Penang — from UNESCO heritage streets and iconic attractions to local food, restaurants, stays, events and experiences worth knowing about.

01 LOCAL
GUIDES
02 INDEPENDENT
REVIEWS
03 PRACTICAL
TRAVEL TIPS
Penang heritage street and architecture
01
GEORGE TOWN PENANG, MALAYSIA

Discover the Best of Penang

Planning a trip to Penang? Xplore Penang helps you decide where to go, what to eat, where to stay and what to experience. Explore George Town’s heritage, Penang’s famous food scene, nature, attractions, events and hidden gems.

Learn more about Xplore Penang →

Best Places to Visit in Penang

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From historic temples and UNESCO heritage streets to beaches, nature and adventure parks, discover some of the best places to visit in Penang.

Kek Lok Si Temple
ATTRACTION

Kek Lok Si Temple

📍 Air Itam, Penang

9.2 / 10

One of Penang’s most important Buddhist temples, known for its impressive architecture and views.

🎟️ Free entry
George Town street art
HERITAGE

George Town Heritage Street

📍 George Town, Penang

8.8 / 10

Discover iconic murals, heritage streets and colourful corners throughout George Town’s historic centre.

🎟️ Free
Clan Jetties
HERITAGE

Clan Jetties

📍 Weld Quay, George Town

8.5 / 10

Explore Penang’s historic waterfront communities and learn about the island’s Chinese clan heritage.

🎟️ Free
ESCAPE Theme Park
ADVENTURE

ESCAPE Theme Park

📍 Teluk Bahang, Penang

9.0 / 10

An outdoor adventure destination surrounded by the tropical landscape of Teluk Bahang.

🎟️ From RM 60

What to Eat in Penang

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Penang is famous for its food. Discover local dishes, hawker favourites, restaurants, cafés and places to eat across the island.

Assam Laksa
LOCAL FOOD

Assam Laksa

📍 George Town

9.1 / 10 ~RM 5/plate
Char Koay Teow
HAWKER FOOD

Char Koay Teow

📍 George Town

9.1 / 10 ~RM 8/plate
Nasi Kandar
MALAYSIAN FOOD

Nasi Kandar

📍 George Town

8.9 / 10 RM 8–15/meal

What’s Happening in Penang?

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Keep up with festivals, cultural celebrations, food events, performances and activities happening around Penang.

29 NOV
FESTIVAL

Penang Ferry Run

📍 George Town, Penang

Penang Ferry Run 2026 is a chance to run alongside a piece of Penang’s history.

16 SEP
FOOD

Keretapi Sarong 2026

📍 Penang

Experience Malaysia’s largest cultural movement as Keretapi Sarong comes to Penang.

5-13 SEP
ACTIVITY

Penang Orchid Show

📍 Penang

The Penang International Orchid Show 2026 is a stunning horticultural celebration bringing together botanists and nature lovers.

Where to Stay in Penang

From heritage hotels in George Town to beachfront stays and comfortable options for every budget, find a place to stay that suits your Penang trip.

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Heritage hotel in George Town
FEATURED STAY

Find Your Stay in Penang

📍 George Town & beyond

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Planning a Trip to Penang?

Quick answers to common questions about visiting Penang, from attractions and food to areas worth exploring.

What are the best things to do in Penang?

Some of the best things to do in Penang include exploring George Town’s UNESCO heritage area, visiting Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple, discovering local street art, trying Penang food and exploring the island’s beaches, nature and cultural attractions.

What food is Penang famous for?

Penang is famous for dishes such as Assam Laksa, Char Koay Teow, Nasi Kandar, Hokkien Mee, Rojak and other Malaysian and regional specialities. Penang is particularly well known for its hawker food culture.

What is the best area to explore in Penang?

George Town is one of the best areas to explore for first-time visitors because it combines heritage buildings, street art, museums, cafés, restaurants, markets and historic neighbourhoods.

How many days do you need in Penang?

A two- to four-day trip can give visitors enough time to explore major George Town attractions, try local food and visit several of Penang’s major attractions. Longer stays allow more time for beaches, nature and less-visited areas.

How we rate? →
9.1 /10

Our Rating. Your Decision.

Xplore Penang independently reviews attractions, food spots and stays across Penang. Our ratings are designed to help you make better decisions about where to go, eat and stay.

⭐ Experience How memorable and unique it is
💰 Value Worth your money
🏆 Quality Food, service or facilities
🤝 Service Friendliness and efficiency
♿ Accessibility How easy it is to enjoy

Discover Your Penang

Find places to visit, food to try, things to do and experiences worth adding to your Penang itinerary.