If you haven’t been to Penang, then take this chance to get a glimpse of this beautiful state of Johor!
#Must-Eats
1. Penang Air Itam Laksa
This Laksa stall, which can be found in all corners of Penang, has been around for more than 50 years. Their laksa has a thick taste accompanied by mint and spicy flavors, thus attracting numerous diners every day.
Location: 1, Jalan Pasar, Pekan Ayer Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 10:30am – 7:00pm
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/penang.air.itam.laksa/
2. Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul
With the particularly sweet and delicious bowl of cendol, it is no wonder that Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul is indeed a famous stall in Penang — having a large crowd every single day!
Location: Jalan Penang, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: Mon-Fri, 10:30am – 7:00pm; Sat-Sun, 10:00am – 7:00pm
Contact: 04-262 6002
3. Kafe Heng Huat Char Kway Teow (兴发茶室-炒粿条)
Obvious for its name, Kafe Heng Huat is famous for its char kway teow made with chili sauce and shrimp! In addition, their fried dumpling is also a must-try!
Location: 82, Lorong Selamat, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 10:00am – 6:30pm; Closed on Tuesdays
Contact: 016-4158536
4. Restoran Kimberly
Warm your tummy with a bowl of soup with lard, quail eggs, pig ears and blood, and duck ingredients! In order to ensure the deliciousness of the food, the store cooks it for about 5 hours.
Location: 135, Lebuh Kimberley, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 6:00pm – 10:00pm; Closed on Tuesdays
5. Kim Leng Loh Mee
If you’re a fan of Loh Mee, then be sure to drop by this stall, which has been operating for more than 20 years, when in Penang!
Location: 336 Lintang Slim, Taman Desa Green, 11600 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 7:00am – 4:00pm; Closed on Thursdays
6. Pilipala by Woodmanz
Looking for an elegant and romantic cafe where you can bring your date? Well, this igloo cafe, which is the first in Penang, is guaranteed to suit your needs! With its unusual design, who wouldn’t get enticed with Pilipala by Woodmanz? Aside from the place, every food on the menu is definitely worth a try, especially their poke bowl and signature drinks such as Matcha Boru, Pink Bunny, Asian Latte, and Blue Latte.
Location: B1-07, Udini Square, Lebuh Tunku Kudin 3, 11700 Gelugor, Penang
Business Hours: 11:00am – 10:30pm
Contact: 017-7352620
7. Abu Mamak
Abu Mamak is one of the most-loved food spots in Penang. In fact, it is recommended by many customers when it comes to Roti Samurai and Maggie Goreng that has an egg, fried chicken, and cheese.
Location: 90, Lorong Macalister, 11400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 8:00am – 4:00am; Closed on Wednesdays
8. Kopi & Toast
Kopi & Toast is a cafe with retro decoration that sells classic breakfast in Malaysia. For fans of American breakfast, the store has burgers and cheese noodles to enjoy.
Location: 63, Gat Lebuh Chuliah 10300 Georgetown Penang
Business Hours: Mon, Wed-Thu, 8:00am – 3:00pm, 5:00pm – 9:30pm; Fri-Sun, 5:00pm – 11:00pm; Closed on Tuesdays
Contact: 012-5681856
9. Ais Tingkap
When the sun is beating down on you, Ais Tingkap is here to refresh you with ice drinks!
Location: Lebol Tamil, 10100 Penang
Business Hours: 11:00am – 7:00pm
10. Sungai Pinang 鸭腿面线
Chicken legs are just delicious when fried, and this stall of medicinal noodles will prove it you!
Location: 130, 126, Lebuh Sungai Pinang, George Town, 10500 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 7:00am – 12:45; Closed on Sundays
11. Restoran DEEN – Nasi Kandar
As for many locals, Restoran Deen is the best for its Nasi Kandar. The dish is made of crispy fried chicken and fragrant rice topped with Kuah Campur (a mixture of curry gravy). Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this dish is an absolute must-taste!
Location: 598-D, Jalan Jelutong, Georgetown, 11600 Penang
Business Hours: 12:30pm – 4:00am
Contact: 04-6572585
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RestoranDeen/
12. Fisherman’s Wharf Penang 槟城渔人码头
This food center in Penang is home to 40 kinds of cuisines. Among the wide range of dishes, the most popular ones that you should definitely give a try are the curry noodles, oyster noodles, oyster noodles, fried noodles, xiao long bao, dumplings, grilled crabs, grilled fish, pancakes, etc.
Location: No. 92A, Lebuh Sungai Pinang 1, Sungai Pinang, 11600 Jelutong, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 11:00am – 1:00am
Contact: 012-4040265
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fishermanswharfpenang/
13. Rain Garden Restaurant . Bar . Coffee
Feel like dining in a garden at Rain Garden Restaurant! You will not only love the ambiance of this restaurant but the wide choice of food too, including Chinese, Western, Japanese, and Hong Kong dishes.
Location: 282 & 282A, Jalan Burma, Pulau Tikus George Town, Penang
Business Hours: 12:00nn – 2:00am
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rain.garden.penang/
#Must-Buy
1. Him Heang Sdn Bhd
Despite being around for over 6 decades now, Him Heang 馨香豆沙饼 is still visited by a large number of customers each day. It is suggested to call and make a reservation first before going to the store.
Location: 162, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 8:30am – 5:00pm; Closed on Sundays
Contact: 04-228 6129
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HimHeangSdnBhd/
2. 钟金泉 Cheong Kim Chuan
A well-known local store in Penang where you can purchase all kinds of soybean meal products that are perfect as food souvenirs!
Location: 99-B, Lorong Selamat, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Contact: 04-2262375
3. Ban Heang Pepper Biscuit
The home for salty, crispy and delicious biscuit seasoned with pepper and milk, which is a perfect snack for people of all ages.
Location: 200 Macalister Road, Jalan Macalister, 10400 George Town, Penang
Business Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Contact: 04-229 5018
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/banheang.biscuit.trading/
4. Ang Seng Heong – 洪成香 Biscuit/Cookies Store
If you’re looking for snack products to take back home, head on to Ang Seng Heong which sells flat rectangular sweet candies!
Location: 326-U, Jalan Perak, Jelutong, 11000 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: Tue-Sat, 9:00am – 6:00pm; Sun, 9:00am – 3:00pm; Closed on Mondays
Contact: 012-482 6338
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngSengHeong/
5. Ghee Hiang
Since sesame oil is a part when cooking food, better grab some bottles at Ghee Hiang to make every food you cook even more delicious!
Location: 216, Jalan Macalister, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 9:00am – 9:00pm
Contact: 04-227 2222
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gheehiangpg/
#Photo-Worthy Places
1. Bukit Genting Hill Leisure Park and Restauarant
If you’re an admirer of nature, then this spot will give you the feels of being in Genting Highlands since it offers a romantic and beautiful mountain and sea view!
Location: Jalan Teluk Kumbar, 11000 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 11:30am – 10:30pm
Contact: 04-629 9801
2. Starbucks Batu Ferringhi
Unlike the other Starbucks outlets in the city, Starbucks Batu Ferringhi is situated on the built—meaning you can enjoy a scenic view while slurping your favorite frappe or coffee!
Location: 69, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: Sun-Thu, 8:30am – 12:00mn; Fri-Sat, 8:30am – 1:00am
Contact: 04-881 2020
3. 彩虹天空步道 The Top Komtara
The Top Komtar offers a breathtakingly beautiful 360-degree view of Georgetown! In addition, it also brags the largest indoor theme park including Jurassic park and the underwater world! Not to mention the vibrant-looking, delicious food!
Location: 1, Jalan Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 11:00am – 8:00pm
Contact: 04-262 38000
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/thetopofpenang/
4. 阿凡达秘密花园 Penang Avatar Secret Garden
For those who can’t get over the Pandora world from the Avatar movie, then Penang Avatar Secret Garden will surely give you the magical feels! This paradise in Penang is even more beautiful when the night falls. Travelers can enjoy this spot until 11:30pm.
Location: 336, Jalan Tokong Thai Pak Koong, Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 8:00am – 12:00mn
5. Magination
Magination is a magic-themed museum and magic theatre in Penang that showcases two magic shows every day — from Friday to Sunday. If you want to experience the world of magic, make sure to visit this place when you’re in Penang!
Location: 8, Gat Lebuh Cecil, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 9:30am – 5:30pm
Contact: 016-5001688
6. Ghost Museum Penang
Conquer your fear of ghosts at this ghost-themed museum! Ghost Museum has more than 13 specially created ghost models and shooting scenes where you can take photos.
Location: 57, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 10:00am – 7:00pm
Contact: 04-2612352
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ghostmuseumpenang57/
7. Wonderfood Museum Penang
Wonderfood Museum features huge, ultra-real foods that really look delectable! There is a variety of local foods that will make you drooly, such as Asam Laksa, satay, durian, fried kway teow, and more.
Location: 49, Lebuh Pantai, Georgetown, 10200 Penang
Business Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Contact: 04-251 9095
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wonderfoodmuseum/
8. Penang 3D Trick Art Museum
Experience the Kampong-style of living and the Journey to the West at this 3D art museum in Penang! There are also other themes to enjoy, like Jurassic Era, Sadako coming out of the TV and so on…
Location: 10, Lebuh Penang, George Town, 10200 Penang
Business Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Contact: 04-263 1628
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/penangtrickart/
9. Glass Museum Penang 槟城玻璃博物馆
As the name tells, this museum is a glass-themed that features decorative glass artwork and exhibits. This
Location: 6, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10500 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: Mon-Fri, 9:30am – 6:00pm; Sat, 9:30am – 5:00pm; Closed on Sundays
Contact: 017-5841017
10. Dark Mansion – 3D Glow In The Dark Museum
Dark Mansion is the first glow-in-the-dark museum in Malaysia that incorporates glow-in-the-dark effect into the 3D paintings and artworks, creating a different vibe.
Location: 145, 147, 149, 151, 153 Kimberley Street, 10100 George Town, Penang
Business Hours: 10:00am – 6:30pm
Contact: 04-251 9694
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darkmansionpenang/
11. 5D Interactive World – Art, Creative, Education
This 5D art museum combines education, creativity, and art elements, and features 5 major themes including environment protection area, animation area, magic area, self-sculpture area, and Tao Le area.
Location: 29-F, Jalan Dato Keramat, 10150 George Town, Penang
Business Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm; Closed on Mondays
Contact: 04-218 9676
12. Aspen Vision City Central Island Park
Aspen Vision City Central Island Park features a huge tunning that is full of beautiful flowers. No wonder it has attracted many tourists and event to become one of the ideal spots for taking wedding photos.
Location: Aspen Vision City, Lebuhraya Bandar Cassia, 14100 George Town, Pulau, Pinang
Business Hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm
#Must-see murals
1. Chew Jetty Peneng (姓周桥)
Location: Chew Jetty, Weld Quay, Penang
2. Lebuh Armenian, Little children on a bicycle
This mural in George Town, Penang is the most famous artwork in the UNESCO World Heritage Zone painted by the Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic.
3. Lebuh Armenian, Old man, the traffic policeman, and reaching up murals
Three of the many wall arts in George Town that are truly worth setting your eyes on. The old man and the traffic policeman murals share the same wall, near the junction of Armenian Street and Pitt Street while “Reaching Up” mural is located across the street from Anak-Anak Kota clubhouse.
4. Lebuh Cannon, Khoo Kongsi
This site does not only let you enjoy beautiful murals but also be knowledge-equipped about the 100-year-old Chinese temple for only RM10 (entrance ticket fee).
5. Lebuh Ah Quee, Our art is dying
The “Our art is dying” is a wall art mural painted on the right side of the Opera Lady and is located at Ah Quee Street.
Related Mural Map:
#Must-Visit
1. Penang Hill
Breathe the fresher air, and witness a captivating panoramic view on top of Penang Hill!
Location: Perbadanan Bukit Bendera Pulau Pinang, Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera, Air Itam 11500 Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 6:30am – 11:00pm
Contact: 04-828 8880
Booking URL: http://www.penanghill.gov.my/index.php/en/tickets.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mypenanghill/
2. Kek Lok Si Temple Penang 槟城鹤山極樂寺
This temple is one of the most historical landmarks in Penang, combining the architectural designs of China, Myanmar, and Thailand. There are several statues of the Golden Buddha and its main attraction, the seven-storey Pagoda of Rama VI!
Location: 1000-L, Tingkat Lembah Ria 1, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 7:00am – 9:00pm
Contact: 04-828 3317
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kekloksipenang/
3. Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Be mesmerized with the enchanting rich Balinese colonization that combines the Chinese and European architectural design inside the mansion. There’s even an exhibit of the Chinese people in Penang many years ago.
Location: 29, Church Street, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Contact: 04-246 2929
Tickets: RM20/pax; Children under 6 are FREE
Official Website: http://www.pinangperanakanmansion.com.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pinang-Peranakan-Mansion-149886941741889
4. Love Lane
For backpackers who are in search of a place to stay, there are a lot of budget-friendly hostels, as well as cafes and bars, located along the Love Lane.
Location: Lorong Love, Georgetown, 10200 Pulau Pinang
5. St. George’s Church
St. George’s Church Penang, a 200-year-old church founded in 1818, serves as the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia.
Location: 1, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-261 2739
6. Teluk Bahang
Want to de-stress? Spend a day with the mountains and get relaxed with the sound of cascading waterfalls at Teluk Bahang!
Location: Taman Rimba, Telok Bahang, 11050 Pulau Pinang
Business Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm
7. Kerachut Beach
If you love the beach, don’t miss Kerachut Beach in Penang! It has a long walkway extending to the middle of the sea, thus allowing you to even more enjoy the serenity of the sea.
Location: Teluk Bahang, Tanjung Bungah, Penang
Business Hours: 24 Hours
8. Asia Comic Cultural Museum
If reading comics has been a part of your childhood, well, this Asian manga culture museum in Penang will let you travel back during those days!
Location: Level 2, ICT Mall, Komtar, 10000 George Town, Penang
Business Hours: Mon-Fri, 11:00am – 7:00pm; Sat-Sun, 11:00am – 9:00pm
#Accommodation
1. Lexis Suites Penang
If you wish to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then consider having a stay at this homestay located in the Bayan Lepas!
Location: 28, Jalan Teluk Kumbar, 11920 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-628 2888
Reservation: https://www.lexissuitespenang.com/en/default.aspx