top of page

Go Travel!

12 Must-Visit Sightseeing Spots in Penang for Travelers and Locals

Writer's picture: Roman OnillonRoman Onillon
Jan 244 min read

Updated: Feb 1


Penang, fondly known as the Pearl of the Orient, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, vibrant street art, and delicious street food. Whether you’re a local rediscovering the island or a traveler eager to explore, Penang offers a plethora of experiences that cater to every type of explorer. In this guide, we’ve rounded up 12 unmissable sightseeing spots that perfectly capture the essence of this charming island.


Book a cheap hotel online

 


1. Penang Hill


Entrance Fee: RM 30 (Adults - Malaysian), RM 80 (Adults - Non-Malaysian)

Experience stunning panoramic views of Penang from Penang Hill, a popular retreat for its cooler climate and lush greenery. Ride the funicular train to the top and enjoy attractions like The Habitat and David Brown’s Restaurant.
Penang Hill

Experience stunning panoramic views of Penang from Penang Hill, a popular retreat for its cooler climate and lush greenery. Ride the funicular train to the top and enjoy attractions like The Habitat and David Brown’s Restaurant.





2. Kek Lok Si Temple


Entrance Fee: Free (temple grounds), RM 2 for the inclined lift

This iconic Buddhist temple is one of Southeast Asia’s largest, boasting intricate architecture and the impressive statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin). Visit during Chinese New Year for mesmerizing light displays.
Kek Lok Si Temple

This iconic Buddhist temple is one of Southeast Asia’s largest, boasting intricate architecture and the impressive statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin). Visit during Chinese New Year for mesmerizing light displays.






3. Penang Street Art


Entrance Fee: Free


Discover George Town’s vibrant street art, where murals like "Children on a Bicycle" and "Boy on a Motorcycle" bring the streets alive. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bicycle to cover more ground.
Penang Street Art


Discover George Town’s vibrant street art, where murals like "Children on a Bicycle" and "Boy on a Motorcycle" bring the streets alive. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bicycle to cover more ground.






4. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)


Entrance Fee: RM 25 for a guided tour

This heritage building is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture. Join a guided tour to learn about the life of Cheong Fatt Tze and the mansion’s significance in Penang’s history.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)


This heritage building is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture. Join a guided tour to learn about the life of Cheong Fatt Tze and the mansion’s significance in Penang’s history.






5. Penang Peranakan Mansion


Entrance Fee: RM 20 (Adults)

Step into the world of the Peranakan people at this museum, showcasing their opulent lifestyle through antique collections, intricate jewelry, and furniture.
Penang Peranakan Mansion

Step into the world of the Peranakan people at this museum, showcasing their opulent lifestyle through antique collections, intricate jewelry, and furniture.






6. Fort Cornwallis


Entrance Fee: RM 20 (Adults - Malaysian), RM 40 (Adults - Non-Malaysian)

Explore the largest standing fort in Malaysia, built by the British in the late 18th century. Walk along its walls and learn about Penang’s colonial past.
Fort Cornwallis

Explore the largest standing fort in Malaysia, built by the British in the late 18th century. Walk along its walls and learn about Penang’s colonial past.






7. Penang Tropical Spice Garden

Address: Lot 595 Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11100 Penang Entrance Fee: RM 20 (Adults - Malaysian), RM 40 (Adults - Non-Malaysian)

Immerse yourself in nature at the Tropical Spice Garden, a lush sanctuary showcasing over 500 species of flora and fauna. Learn about Malaysia’s rich spice history through guided tours or hands-on cooking classes.
Penang Tropical Spice Garden

Immerse yourself in nature at the Tropical Spice Garden, a lush sanctuary showcasing over 500 species of flora and fauna. Learn about Malaysia’s rich spice history through guided tours or hands-on cooking classes.




 



Travelpayouts is more than just an affiliate platform; it's a bridge between passionate travelers and some of the world's leading travel service providers. It's a way to share your experiences, recommend trusted services, and earn a commission while doing what you love.
Travelpayout


  • Travelpayouts is more than just an affiliate platform; it's a bridge between passionate travelers and some of the world's leading travel service providers. It's a way to share your experiences, recommend trusted services, and earn a commission while doing what you love. Read more




8. Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm


Entrance Fee: RM 49 (Adults - Malaysian), RM 69 (Adults - Non-Malaysian)

A haven for nature lovers, Entopia houses thousands of butterflies and other insects in a lush, tropical garden setting. It’s a perfect spot for families and photography enthusiasts.
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm

A haven for nature lovers, Entopia houses thousands of butterflies and other insects in a lush, tropical garden setting. It’s a perfect spot for families and photography enthusiasts.






9. Clan Jetties of Penang


Address: Weld Quay, 10300 George Town, Penang

Entrance Fee: Free

Walk along the historic wooden piers of the Clan Jetties, home to traditional stilt houses built over water. Each jetty belongs to a Chinese clan with its own unique history.

Walk along the historic wooden piers of the Clan Jetties, home to traditional stilt houses built over water. Each jetty belongs to a Chinese clan with its own unique history.



Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, offering the chance to explore new destinations, meet incredible people, and create memories that last a lifetime. However, an unforgettable trip can quickly take a turn for the worse if you’re not prepared for unexpected situations. That’s where travel insurance comes in. For travelers, having travel insurance is not just a recommendation—it’s an essential part of planning any trip.


10. Penang National Park


Address: Jalan Hassan Abas, 11050 Teluk Bahang, Penang

Entrance Fee: Free

Reconnect with nature in one of the world’s smallest national parks. Hike trails leading to pristine beaches, a lighthouse, and the famous canopy walkway.
Penang national Park

Reconnect with nature in one of the world’s smallest national parks. Hike trails leading to pristine beaches, a lighthouse, and the famous canopy walkway.




11. Gurney Drive


Address: Persiaran Gurney, 10250 George Town, Penang

Entrance Fee: Free

Gurney Drive is a food lover’s paradise, featuring a mix of local hawker delights and upscale dining. It’s the ideal place to sample Penang’s culinary heritage.

Gurney Drive is a food lover’s paradise, featuring a mix of local hawker delights and upscale dining. It’s the ideal place to sample Penang’s culinary heritage.





12. Penang Floating Mosque


Address: Tanjung Bungah, 11200 George Town, Penang

Entrance Fee: Free

Marvel at the unique design of this mosque, which appears to float on the sea during high tide. It’s an architectural gem and a peaceful spot to visit.
Penang Floating Mosque

Marvel at the unique design of this mosque, which appears to float on the sea during high tide. It’s an architectural gem and a peaceful spot to visit.




 

Conclusion


Penang is a destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and nature. From its iconic temples and heritage buildings to lush natural parks and vibrant street art, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, these 12 must-visit spots are guaranteed to enrich your Penang experience. Don’t wait—start planning your Penang adventure today!


 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page