Penang Bucket List: 25 Things to Do in Penang: Sunsets to Street Food.
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Welcome to Penang, where every corner offers a story, and every experience becomes a cherished memory. Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is a vibrant blend of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility and there is plenty you can add to your Penang Bucket List, it seems a shame just to pick 25 things to do in Penang but here we go.
This guide is your gateway to exploring the very best of Penang, from its iconic street art and historical landmarks to tranquil gardens and bustling night markets. With our list of 25 things to do.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Penang’s diverse attractions are sure to capture your heart.
Just before we Jump into the Top 25 Bucket list Ideas of things to do in Penang we have some travel tips and advice for visiting this wonderful island at the end of the article to help make your trip to the Pearl of the Orient easier and smoother.
25 Bucket List Things to do In Penang.
1. Explore George Town’s Street Art
Explore into the vibrant street art scene in George Town, where murals bring walls to life. Start at the famous “Kids on Bicycle” by Ernest Zacharevic and meander through alleyways to uncover hidden gems.
The famous pieces like the kids on a bike on Armenia Street, Kids on the swings and on the motor bike all around there.
There are also hundreds of other art works around and rather than go into details here you can check out guides on the two links below.
This open-air gallery reflects Penang’s rich culture and history, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and photographers alike and depending if you are ruled by your eyes are your taste buds is reason 1 or 2 of things to do in Penang.
Guide to Penang Street Art is a great resource to help you plan your route and see all the street art in Georgetown.
Penang things to do : Taste the Flavors at Gurney Drive, Viva and Red Rooster Hawker Centres:
No visit to Penang is complete without indulging in its street food. There are restaurants everywhere, literally everywhere.
If here on vacation then trying the street food is a must, from hawker carts on Chulia Street, to the huge hawker centres like Red Rooster, Viva and Gurney drive. We have an article that covers these in more detail as well as the top foods to try in Penang if you are looking for ideas,
All of these Food courts and Hawker centres offer a bustling atmosphere where you can savor local favorites like Char Kway Teow, Asam Laksa, and Hokkien Mee. It is a must on any list of things to do in Penang.
This seaside promenade is perfect for food lovers looking to taste their way through Penang’s culinary highlights.
Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si, one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples, is a marvel of ornate decorations and striking architecture. Located in Air Itam, this temple features a seven-tiered pagoda that blends Chinese, Thai, and Burmese styles.
Don’t miss the towering statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy—a sight that’s especially enchanting during Chinese New Year when thousands of lights illuminate the complex.
Though if you are here at Chinese New Year you can expect to be accompanied by a few thousand other people!
Relax at Batu Ferringhi Beach
Spend a day at Batu Ferringhi, known for its soft sandy beaches and thrilling water sports. Whether you’re up for parasailing or simply want to enjoy a peaceful sunset, Batu Ferringhi offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure after you have tackled the other things to do in Penang.
The night market here is also great for picking up souvenirs and trying some street food. The only thing here is despite only being 80km from the beaches of Langkawi and and Thailand’s Koh lipe the water in Penang is not ideal for swimming or bathing in.
Lots of Jelly fish and not particularly clear. Using he hotel pool may be more advisable for this holiday.
There are plenty of places to stay in the area though from five star experiences at the Shangri la Rasa Sayang to more wallet friendly options like Air BnBs at By the sea. (we stayed in the air BnB at place by the sea and our two bed apartment was about 80 USD a night with sunset views!
Discover the Penang Hill and The Habitat
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by taking a funicular train up to Penang Hill. Breathe in the cooler air, stroll around the gardens, and visit The Habitat, an eco-park that provides a safe haven for a variety of plant and animal species.
The canopy walk offers stunning panoramic views of the island, making it a photographer’s paradise and deserves its place on the bucket list of things to do in Penang.
There are also some pretty random experiences at the top including photo taking with snakes and wild animals, and even an earthquake simulator!
You can walk up Penang hill and it is a great way to work off the extra pounds from Penang’s great food, but you do need a reasonable level of fitness, if you want a more sedate way you can take the Funicular up from the bottom, or even hire a jeep to take you to the top.
The funicular runs from 6.30 am to 11 pm and costs around 12 to 80 Myr * 3 to 20 usd return. ( less if you are a resident or on a Long term visa.
Wander through the Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Experience the opulent lifestyle of a rich Baba Nyonya family from the 19th century by visiting the Pinang Peranakan Mansion.
With over 1,000 antiques and collectibles on display, this museum offers a glimpse into the unique Peranakan culture and its fusion of Malay and Chinese influences.
Indulge in Penang’s Famous Chendol
After a full day of exploring Georgetowns sights you will be more than ready to treat yourself to a bowl of Chendol near the famous Penang Road, where this beloved dessert is served with generous portions of gula melaka (palm sugar syrup) and coconut milk.
It’s a refreshing treat to beat the heat and enjoy a taste of local sweet delights. Its not for me, but everyone i know swears by this, especially one of the many hot days Penang experiences.
Take a Cooking Class in a Traditional Malay Village
For a hands-on culinary experience, join a cooking class in a traditional Malay village. Learn how to prepare classic Malay dishes using fresh local ingredients.
Malaysian food is truly amazing and taking some recipes home with you will help you relive those Penang food moments.
It’s not only a chance to enhance your cooking skills but also a unique way to immerse yourself in Malaysian culture.
Visit the Tropical Spice Garden
The Tropical Spice Garden is a lush oasis offering a look at Southeast Asia’s spice heritage. Take a guided tour to learn about the spices that once drove global trade and now flavor local cuisines.
The garden’s tranquil paths and themed gardens make it a soothing retreat from the urban buzz.
If you are staying in Batu ferringhi on your trip to Penang The Spice garden is clsoe by and for 28 MYR ( 7 USD) is definitely worth a few hours.
Take a day trip to see Orangutangs Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island
Orangutan Island is designed to provide a safe haven for these endangered primates and to promote awareness and conservation of orangutans through education and research initiatives.
The island spans approximately 35 acres but the area accessible to visitors is carefully controlled to ensure minimal disturbance to the animals. – basically you are in the cage, not the animals!
Visitors to the island are taken on guided tours along a protected pathway that is enclosed, allowing the orangutans to roam freely around in their naturalistic habitats. This setup provides a safe environment for both the orangutans and visitors, facilitating up-close observations of the orangutans’ behaviors and interactions.
The facility is also involved in research and rehabilitation programs aimed at increasing orangutan populations and understanding their behavioral ecology, with the ultimate goal of re-introducing rehabilitated orangutans back into their natural habitats in Borneo and Sumatra.
You can check out more photos and information here on our site, but if you are not spending time in Borneo then this could be the best chance to see orangutang’s in at least the semi wild and if you are looking for a more natural experience is one of the better things to do in Penang.
Stroll Along the Clan Jetties
Experience the charm of Penang’s waterfront heritage at the Clan Jetties. These traditional wooden piers house communities that have been living above the water for generations.
Walking through Chew Jetty, the most tourist-friendly among them, offers a glimpse into the lifestyles of these communities and provides excellent photo opportunities against the backdrop of old Penang.
It can get pretty busy here when the cruises ships come in as the jetties are always on the excursion list for the major cruise lines and 4000 people off the boat in one go looking to tick off those things to do in Penang, well you can imagine.
Explore the Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion
Tour the iconic Blue Mansion, a UNESCO award-winning heritage building that combines Eastern and Western architectural styles.
Once the residence of influential Chinese businessman Cheong Fatt Tze, it now serves as both a museum and a boutique hotel. The guided tours are rich in historical anecdotes and architectural insights.
It is also the set of practically any and every colonial period tv show and movie you may have seen, including indian summers and Crazy Rich Asians.
Visit Penang National Park
Hike through Penang National Park, one of the world’s smallest national parks yet incredibly biodiverse. Trek to secluded beaches like Kerachut Beach to visit the meromictic lake and the turtle sanctuary at the bottom of the beach. There is also a little closer Monkey beach which i am sure you can guess waht its famous for.
While hiking is the better option if you are worried about walking in the heat of Penang then you can organise a boat with er on or two ways to take you there. If there isa group of you this can work out to be about 20 myr a person or about 4 dollars US.
Experience the Magic of Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
Delight in the colors and tranquility of Entopia, a sanctuary for butterflies and other invertebrates. with a mini zoo, and a themed park basement it is a great day out !
This living garden enclosure is home to thousands of butterflies in a carefully maintained habitat, complete with waterfalls, ponds, and lush plants.
We loved out visit there we have been back 3 times! Holding scorpions and millipedes, seeing the wildlife, and even though we are not one for theme parks and such like we loved the bug city interactive section they have in the basement! We keep going here and its high up on our personal things to do in Penang.
You can check out our article on this here on the site as well for tips, how to get there and prices as well.
It’s an educational experience as much as it is picturesque.
Discover the Wonderfood Museum
Dive into Malaysia’s culinary delights in a fun and interactive way at the Wonderfood Museum.
This quirky museum features giant replicas of Malaysian dishes, offering visitors a playful way to learn about the food culture and the stories behind famous dishes like Nasi Lemak and Satay.
This Durian isn’t actually there, but you get the idea!
Night Market at Batu Ferringhi
After a day at the beach, head to the Batu Ferringhi Night Market. This bustling bazaar is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, handcrafted items, and enjoy local street food.
There is also a suprisingly large selection of LV, Gucci and other brands for sale for about 5-10 Dollars, while we have been assured it all authentic, you can be the judge. Either way if you enjoy markets and shopping then you should put it on your list of things to do in Penang.
It’s a vibrant part of Penang’s nightlife and offers something for everyone our advice is to start from the bottom and work your way up as it will give you a larger selection of restaurants and bars to choose from.
Penang Upside Down Museum
Step into the Topsy Turvey world of Penang’s Upside Down Museum, where everyday scenes are turned topsy-turvy in the most literal sense.
This playful attraction offers a unique experience as you navigate rooms where everything from furniture to household items and whole street scenes that defy gravity.
Perfect for families and groups of friends, the museum challenges your perceptions and guarantees a fun-filled day of laughter and quirky photo opportunities.
Ride the Ferry between Penang Island and the Mainland
Experience the scenic ferry ride between Penang Island and the mainland is one of the more relaxing and economical things to do in Penang.
This iconic boat trip offers panoramic views of George Town’s skyline and the Malacca Strait, providing a picturesque and tranquil experience away from the city’s hustle.
And in 2023 there are all new ferries to hop on! Get them while they are new! if the Ferry is not quite long enough a trip then the Aegean Princess Cruise Ship leaves Penang twice daily for a cruise to nowhere. You can check out more on the link and image below.
Revolving Restaurant and Roof Top Bar at the Bayview Hotel.
While the restaurant is fine, and serves a pretty good curry buffet if you get the day right, and it does rotate so you can get a 360 degree view of George Town as you dine, we actually love this place for the rooftop bar they have just outside the restaurant.
It has great happy hour deals, Sapporo on tap, and the same views with the advantage of being out side for nice breezes and great atmosphere.
We definitely recommend this and we take our guests there whenever we are they are in town, and as evening activities go it is definitely close to the top of our list of things to do in Penang.
You can check out our guide to this rooftop bar and restaurant here. There is also a guide to 5 other rooftop bars in Penang here on the site.
Escape Water Park in Penang.
Escape to a world of thrilling adventures at Penang’s Escape Water Park, where fun meets nature. This eco-friendly park features exciting water-based activities designed for all ages, from high-speed water slides and a wave pool to the more serene Lazy River.
It also has the Longest tube waterslide in the world at 3645 feet in length. if you are looking for a Guinness world record tick off your bucket list this could be it!
One of its standout attractions, the Banana Flip, sends riders soaring into the air before splashing into the pool below. Perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Escape Water Park offers a refreshing retreat with plenty of opportunities to cool off and challenge yourself in a lush, tropical setting. A great addition to your list of things to do in Penang for a day of exhilarating fun and relaxation.
Climb to the Top of KOMTAR Tower
Head to the top of KOMTAR Tower, Penang’s tallest building, for spectacular 360-degree views across the island. At 249 meters high, the Rainbow Skywalk offers a unique view of George Town through a glass walkway that will thrill any visitor definitely one of the better things to do in Penang.
Key Attractions at KOMTAR Tower:
- Rainbow Skywalk: A glass-floored observation deck for stunning aerial views.
- U.F.O – x: A mini rollercoaster to get the heart racing
- GP Mega Cart: Electric cart track in a skyscraper!
- Zombie outbreak: Imagine being in the walking dead, well for about 30 mins anyway.
- Jungle Gym: A great play area for the little ones
- Observatory Deck: Perfect for panoramic photos of Penang.
- Jurassic Research Center: If you like dinosaurs this is the place!
- Boutique Aquarium: A small aquarium showcasing diverse marine life..
KOMTAR Tower provides a variety of activities that are ideal for families and individuals looking to get a comprehensive view of Penang from above.
Enjoy the Penang Botanic Gardens
Take your time exploring the Penang Botanic Gardens, often referred to as the “Waterfall Gardens” due to their picturesque setting at the base of a lush, forested valley.
As you wander along the well-maintained paths, you may encounter playful (and occasionally agressive so dont get too close) troops of monkeys that call these gardens home,
The gardens serve as a perfect escape from the bustling city, providing a serene retreat where you can relax, enjoy nature’s beauty, and perhaps even picnic in the shade of large, tropical trees.
Don’t forget your camera and try the little hawker market just down from the front gate.
Visit the Penang War Museum
Explore the Penang War Museum on Batu Maung hill, built on the site of a former British military fortress.
This historical complex, once dubbed “Fortress of the East,” offers insight into World War II history in the region through its preserved structures and exhibits.
Dine at the Floating Restaurants of Tan Jetty
Experience a meal on the water at one of the floating restaurants or Hawker stalls off Tan Jetty in George Town.
These eateries provide a unique dining setting over the water, serving fresh seafood and local delicacies with views of the bustling harbor.
While there are better food options in the town, this is that great instagrammable moment if thats what you are looking for.
Take a Lunch at Straits Quay Marina
Experience a laid-back lunch at Straits Quay Marina, where you can enjoy views of elegant yachts and the gentle sea.
The marina hosts a range of dining options that cater to all tastes, from local delicacies to international dishes. Select a restaurant along the waterfront and savor your meal with the soothing sight of boats in the harbor.
In the evenings, some venues offer live music, adding a vibrant atmosphere to the scenic location. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon, whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with stunning views.
It is also off the beaten tourist path a little and, if you consider Penang as a place to live at some point you can get a look at some of the condos and facilities up in this Northern corner of the Island which is more residential. We live up this way and this is one of our favorite things to do in Penang.
Practical Tips for Exploring Penang
Before you embark on your Penang adventure, before ticking off those things to do in Penang it’s essential to know a few practicalities that will make your trip smoother.
Penang’s tropical climate means light clothing and sun protection are must-haves. The best times to visit are between November and January when the weather is cooler and drier.
English is widely spoken, but learning a few phrases in Malay could enhance your interactions, mandarin and cantonese are also spoken to varying degrees as well.
Public transport is reliable, with buses covering major routes and apps like Grab making short trips convenient. Always carry some cash, as smaller vendors may not accept cards.
LOCAL TIP: As a note we can totally recommend Grab to get around Penang. it is super accessible and very cheap.
Cultural Etiquette
Understanding Penang’s Cultural Etiquette Penang is a melting pot of cultures, each with its own set of customs. When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
It’s polite to greet locals with a smile and a nod, avoiding physical contact unless initiated by them.
During dining, using your right hand is customary, and be sure to try some of the communal dishes as sharing food is a common practice that shows camaraderie.
Respecting these cultural nuances will not only enrich your experience but also help foster genuine connections with the locals.
LOCAL TIP: In our experience Penangites, and Malaysians overall are so welcoming and friendly, that you will have a wonderful time meeting local people.
Recommended Itineraries
Suggested Itineraries for Your Penang Visit Maximize your time in Penang with tailored itineraries that cater to different lengths of stay and makse sure you can try more of these 25 things to do in Penang
- If you’re here for a quick 48-hour trip, focus on George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, street food scene, and vibrant street art.
- With a week to explore, add relaxing beach days at Batu Ferringhi, a visit to Penang Hill, and maybe a day trip to nearby islands.
- For those with more time, delve deeper into the local culture with cooking classes, market visits, and more immersive experiences in the smaller towns around the island.
LOCAL TIP: We have listed 25 ideas of things to do in Penang for you to fill your days but Penang is a small island and you can do (or tick off if you are bucket listing) multiple experiences in a day. If you plan well you can certainly do a lot.
Packing Essentials for Penang
Packing for Penang requires consideration of the climate and activities you plan to enjoy. Essentials include breathable cotton clothing, a reliable pair of walking shoes for exploring the city, and sandals for the beach.
Don’t forget a high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the tropical sun.
Bring along a sturdy water bottle to stay hydrated and an umbrella or raincoat, as sudden showers are common. For tech and gadgets, ensure you have a universal adapter, as Malaysia uses UK-style three-pin sockets.
LOCAL TIP: Penang is humid, and you can expect rain showers at almost any time. While usually these are brief but powerful, an umbrella is useful to pop in your day pack. Also having spare T shirts and shorts to change into if you get caught is a good idea.
Safety Tips
Staying Safe in Penang Penang is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always wise to follow basic safety precautions. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
Be aware of your surroundings, and use reputable transport services, particularly at night. It’s advisable to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical needs.
Be cautious with street food; choose stalls that are busy and where you can see food being cooked. Lastly, respect the natural environment, especially when hiking or visiting beaches, to avoid hazards and protect the local wildlife.
LOCAL TIP: We have found penang to be one of the safest places we have lived. The only THing we have worried about is traffic, especially with moped and scooters, so be aware when crossing roads!
Is 25 things to do In Penang Enough
Penang truly offers a slice of paradise for every type of traveler, and we hope this guide inspires you to explore its history, its sights, its fun side and of course that wonderful food!
Enjoy your travels here and don’t forget to checkout the articles for each of these things to do in Penang, if you are in the area and want more tips, you can hit us up on the email below.
We enjoyed it so much we moved here to live! So if you want further advice just drop us a line on info@bucketlistguides.com and ask us anything.
As you plan your journey, remember to check back for in-depth articles on each featured attraction, providing you with all the details you need to make your adventure in Penang unforgettable and any updates on these 25 things to do in Penang.
