Penang, the beautiful state located on the northwest coast of Malaysia’s Peninsular region, beckons with its rich tapestry of cultures, tantalizing cuisine, and picturesque charms. The essence of Penang’s allure resides in its diverse array of attractions, blending quaint artistic corners with pristine beaches and modern wonders. As a fervent traveler, I am here to unravel the top attractions in Penang that earmark it as one of the must-visit destinations in Malaysia for every wanderlust soul.
Penang Art Street
Georgetown is adorned with various murals and artworks by both local and international artists. Strolling through the vibrant lanes of Penang Art Street is akin to stepping into an open-air gallery. The walls here narrate tales through murals and whimsical wrought-iron caricatures, reflecting the island’s rich culture and history. It’s a colorful journey through Penang’s narrative, one mural at a time.
Little India Penang
The lively precinct of Little India in Penang is a melodious enclave, echoing with the harmonious beats of Bollywood tunes and adorned with shops selling a myriad of Indian crafts and culinary delights. It’s a vibrant slice of India amidst the heart of Penang, offering a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and flavors.
Little India Penang, with its vibrant streets and captivating ambiance, is undeniably one of the top attractions in Penang. As visitors step into this enclave, they are immediately transported to a world filled with the melodious beats of Bollywood music, the tantalizing aroma of Indian spices, and the colorful displays of sarees and traditional wares. The area is a vivid representation of Penang’s multicultural tapestry, showcasing the rich heritage of the Indian community in Malaysia.
Some of the reviews of Little India Penang is tourists and locals alike praises its authentic Indian eateries, bustling marketplaces, and the myriad of cultural festivals celebrated with fervor. Besides that, other reviews often emphasize the area’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it an essential destination for those looking to experience the diverse cultural offerings of Penang. In essence, Little India Penang stands as a lively and enriching testament to the island’s inclusivity and cultural richness.
Ghost Museum Penang
The Ghost Museum in Penang is a fun place where you can learn about ghosts and spooky stories from different cultures. It’s like a big haunted house, but it is safe and not too scary. People go there to see the ghost displays and hear tales about them. Some of the stories are old legends from Malaysia and other countries. It’s a good place to visit if you like mysteries and want to know more about ghost stories.
Many visitors find it interesting and enjoy their time there. If you’re in Penang and want to try something different, you might like the Ghost Museum. For those with a daring spirit, the Ghost Museum serves as a spine-chilling voyage through Malaysia’s supernatural folklore. It’s an eerie yet captivating exploration into the mystical, showcasing ghostly figures from various cultural narratives.
Padang Brown Penang
Padang Brown Penang is a famous food spot. Many people go there to eat because there are many tasty foods to try. Some of the popular menu items at Padang Brown are “pasembur,” which is a mix of seafood and veggies with a special sauce, and “popiah,” a type of fresh spring roll filled with turnips, eggs, and sauces. There’s also “mee goreng,” which is fried noodles with prawns and spices. If you like sweet things, you can try “cendol,” a cold dessert with green noodles, coconut milk, and palm sugar. If you visit Penang, you should go to Padang Brown and try these yummy foods!
Chinatown Penang
Chinatown in Penang also one of the top attractions in Penang not to be missed. It’s a part of the city where you can see old Chinese buildings, shops, and food stalls. When you think about Chinatown Penang things to do, there’s a lot! You can walk around and look at the pretty lanterns and decorations. You can also try tasty Chinese food from the street vendors. There are many shops where you can buy gifts, clothes, and other cool stuff. At night, there are lights everywhere, and it looks very beautiful. If you visit Penang, Chinatown is a fun place to see and explore.
Aquarium Batu Maung Penang
Aquarium Batu Maung Penang is a great place to explore underwater life. This aquarium has a variety of marine animals that you can see up close. Some of the animals you can find here include colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and seahorses. There are also different types of corals and sea plants. The aquarium provides information about these creatures, making it both fun and educational. If you’re in Penang and love sea animals, the Aquarium Batu Maung is a must-visit. It’s a good place for families and anyone interested in marine life.
Bali Hai Penang
Bali Hai Penang is a popular seafood restaurant located by the sea. It’s known for offering a wide range of fresh seafood dishes. When you visit, some of the must-try menus include the chili crab, which is a crab dish cooked in a spicy and tangy sauce, and the garlic prawns, where the prawns are cooked with lots of garlic and butter.
Another favorite is the steamed fish in lime sauce, which has a refreshing taste. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with views of the sea, making it a perfect place for a delightful meal. The ambiance here is nothing short of enchanting, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil seaside dinner. If you’re in Penang and love seafood, Bali Hai should definitely be on your list.
Upside Down Museum Penang
The Upside Down Museum in Penang is a fun place to visit. Everything inside is flipped upside down, making it look like you’re walking on the ceiling! When you go inside, you’ll see rooms like a living room, kitchen, and bedroom, but everything is the wrong way up. It’s a great place to take funny photos.
You can pretend to be hanging from the ceiling or floating in the air! People of all ages, both kids and adults, enjoy visiting this museum, making it undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Penang. It’s different from other museums and gives you a chance to see things from a new perspective. If you’re in Penang, it’s worth stopping by for some fun and laughter.
Penang 3D Trick Art Museum
The Penang Interactive Museum is a fun place in Penang where visitors can learn about the island’s history and culture in a unique way. Instead of just looking at things, you can actually interact with the displays. The museum has 3D art and exhibits that make you feel like you’re part of the scene. You can take fun photos, touch some of the displays, and even play with some of them. It’s not just for kids; adults also find it enjoyable. The museum helps people understand Penang’s past and present in a hands-on and entertaining manner.
Wonderfood Museum
The Wonderfood Museum in Penang is one of the top attractions in Penang which specializes on displaying crafts of various foods. When you visit, you’ll see big models of popular Malaysian dishes. These models are much larger than real food, and they look very real! The museum shows the different types of food people eat in Malaysia and tells stories about them. There are also fun facts about the food and how it’s made. It’s a good place to learn and also take funny photos with the big food models. If you like food and want to know more about what people eat in Penang, this museum is a great place to visit.
Chew Jetty
Chew Jetty in Penang is one of the top attractions in Penang with a rich history. When you learn about Chew Jetty’s history, you find out that it’s one of the old wooden piers where Chinese immigrants, specifically the Chew clan, used to live. Over time, this jetty turned into a lively area with houses built on stilts over the beach. Today, when you walk along the jetty, you can see these traditional homes and even some shops selling crafts and snacks.
One of the main attractions is the beautiful view of the sea, especially during sunset. There’s also wall art and murals that tell stories of the past. Chew Jetty is a mix of the old and the new, making it a must-visit spot in Penang.
Dark Mansion Museum
Dark Mansion – 3D Glow in the Dark Museum in Penang is a unique and exciting place to visit. Inside the museum, you can find amazing art that glows in the dark. When you walk around, you’ll see beautiful paintings and scenes that come to life with special lighting.
One of the main attractions is the 3D art that seems to pop out from the walls, making you feel like you’re part of the picture. There are also interactive zones where you can have fun and take cool photos with the glowing art. It’s not just a place to look at art; it’s a place to experience it in a new and glowing way. If you’re in Penang, the Dark Mansion is one of the fun instagrammable spots in Penang for both kids and adults.
The Top KOMTAR
The Top Penang is located within KOMTAR Tower, which is the tallest building in Penang. The TOP KOMTAR Penang is one of the famous landmark in Penang which consists of 65 levels. The Top KOMTAR Penang offers many fun attractions for couples, families, friends and kids.
One of the main highlights is the Rainbow Skywalk, a glass walkway where you can see the whole city from high above. It’s exciting and gives you a bird’s-eye view of Penang. For thrill-seekers, the Gravityz challenge in Penang offers the world’s highest ropes course challenge on the 65th floor of the Komtar Tower, providing adrenaline seekers a thrilling experience with breathtaking views of the city below. Besides that, Zombie Outbreak in Penang is one of the thrilling attractions in Penang where visitors can experience a fun and spooky adventure, pretending to escape from zombies in a set-up that feels like a movie.
For kids, there’s the Jurassic Research Center with life-sized dinosaur models and the Top Boutique Aquarium to watch various interesting marine life. With so many things to see and do, the Top Komtar in Penang is a must-visit spot for families and anyone looking to have a good time in Penang.
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm stands as a one of the top attractions in Penang for nature lovers, offering a vivid and immersive experience into the world of butterflies and other insects. Touted as one of the premier attractions in Penang, this unique establishment has transformed over the years from a simple butterfly farm to an expansive nature learning center.
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm always received positive reviews by tourists. The reviews consistently applaud the educational exhibits, interactive programs, and the enchanting butterfly garden that houses thousands of colorful winged creatures. Besides that, the reviews often highlight the farm’s commitment to conservation and its efforts in creating a harmonious environment for both the flora and fauna.
As visitors leave with a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance of nature, the overwhelming positive feedbacks in Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm portrays its significance as one of the must-visit destinations in Penang for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Khoo Kongsi
Khoo Kongsi, nestled in the heart of George Town, Penang, is a testament to the opulence and cultural heritage of the Chinese community in Malaysia. A deep dive into Khoo Kongsi history reveals its establishment by the Khoo clan, one of the prominent Straits Chinese families, in the 19th century. This grand clan house stands as an architectural marvel, boasting intricate carvings, stunning frescoes, and ornate rooftops that are reminiscent of the clan’s prosperity and influence in the region.
Beyond its breathtaking aesthetics, Khoo Kongsi’s history also tells tales of communal unity, traditions, and the clan’s endeavors in commerce and philanthropy. Today, as both a living testament to the past and an active center for the Khoo community, the clan house remains a focal point for researchers, history buffs, and travelers seeking to understand the rich tapestry of Penang’s Chinese heritage.
Ferringhi Beach
Ferringhi Beach in Penang is a beautiful spot where both locals and tourists love to go. It’s known for its long stretch of sandy shore and clear blue waters. People come here to relax, sunbathe, and play in the sea. Besides swimming, you can also try water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.
In the evening, the beach becomes lively with night markets where you can shop for souvenirs and try local food. There are also many restaurants and cafes along the beach where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the sea. Whether you want to have fun in the water, relax on the sand, or enjoy a tasty meal, Ferringhi Beach has something for everyone, making it as one of the top attractions in Penang.
Bukit Bendera @ Penang Hill
Bukit Bendera, or Penang Hill, is a must-visit spot in Penang. Penang Hill is a cool hill station which offers panoramic views of Georgetown and the Penang Bridge from the peak of the hill. You can reach the top of Bukit Bendera via a funicular train and enjoy the cooler climate and lush greenery.
Upon reaching the top of Penang Hill, you can explore many interesting attractions. Kopi Hutan is one of the best aesthetic cafes in the forest where you can sip coffee in the middle of nature. At Monkeycup Garden, you can learn about different kinds of pitcher plants. The Habitat offers a nature trail where you can walk and spot some local plants and animals.
Another top attractions in Penang Hill is Little Village, which gives tourists a feel of old Penang with its cute shops and traditional setups. Here in Little Village, visitors, especially children and those young at heart, can try on various costumes, including those of Disney princesses. Imagine dressing up as Cinderella, Belle, or Elsa and capturing that moment against the backdrop of a vintage Penang setting! It’s not just about the costume; it’s about reliving a fairy tale in the heart of Penang.
Fort Cornwallis
Fort Cornwallis stands as a monumental testament to Penang’s colonial past, with its history deeply intertwined with the early days of British settlement in Malaysia. Originally constructed in the late 18th century by Captain Francis Light, the founder of Penang, the fort was named in honor of Charles Cornwallis, the then Governor-General of British India.
Over the years, Fort Cornwallis has undergone several renovations, transforming from a simple wooden structure to the imposing star-shaped bastion that visitors see today. The fort’s thick walls, old cannons, and historical artifacts serve as silent witnesses to the bygone era of colonial rule and maritime conflicts. Today, as one delves into Fort Cornwallis’s history, it remains an enduring symbol of Penang’s rich heritage and a must-visit site for those keen on understanding the island’s storied past.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si Temple, majestically perched on the hills of Air Itam in Penang, stands as a beacon of Buddhist devotion and architectural grandeur. Diving into Kek Lok Si Temple’s history, one discovers that its origins date back to the late 19th century, making it one of the most revered and largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia.
The temple complex, with its intricate carvings, pagodas, and prayer halls, was meticulously constructed over the years, reflecting a harmonious blend of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architectural styles. At its heart is the impressive seven-story Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, and the towering statue of the Goddess of Mercy, both of which draw devotees and tourists alike.
As one explores the rich tapestry of Kek Lok Si Temple’s history, it becomes evident that the temple not only serves as a place of worship but also as a testament to the enduring spirit of Buddhist teachings and cultural amalgamation in the region.
Penang Botanic Gardens
Penang Botanic Gardens, nestled on the verdant outskirts of Georgetown, stand as one of the top attractions in Penang. Established in the 19th century, this tranquil oasis spans over 29 hectares and showcases a myriad of tropical flora and fauna. As visitors stroll through its well-maintained pathways, they encounter themed gardens, serene ponds, and majestic rain trees.
The gardens are not only a haven for plant enthusiasts but also for those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike for jogging, walking, or simply relaxing. Being a testament to Penang’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage, the Penang Botanic Gardens remain a must-visit for anyone exploring the island’s myriad attractions.
Penang Peranakan Mansion
The Penang Peranakan Mansion, an epitome of Penang’s rich cultural tapestry, stands prominently as one of the top attractions in Penang. Delving into Penang Peranakan Mansion’s history reveals a captivating tale of the Peranakan community, also known as the Straits Chinese, who seamlessly blended Chinese traditions with Malay and Indonesian influences. This museum showcases the opulent lifestyle of the Peranakans (Straits Chinese) during the 19th century. The mansion is filled with antiques and offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Peranakans.
This mansion are intricate wooden carvings, ornate tiles, and an array of antiques that narrate stories of the lavish lifestyles led by the Peranakans. This architectural gem not only offers a window into the unique Peranakan culture but also showcases the island’s deep-rooted multicultural heritage, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Penang is a treasure chest of myriad experiences, with each attraction offering a unique glimpse into what makes this state a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re a history aficionado, a food lover, or someone with a flair for the quirky, Penang’s vast canvas of attractions is bound to etch unforgettable sketches in the diary of your wanderlust.
If you are planning a trip to Penang, don’t miss out to read the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Penang. This guide is packed with amazing places to visit, tasty foods to try, and fun activities for everyone. And if you’re looking for a plan, check out our suggested Penang 3-day travel itinerary which will provide you a day-by-day breakdown of top spots to visit and things to do. So, make your Penang trip unforgettable with our expert tips and recommendations. Dive into our guide and itinerary, and get ready for a fantastic Penang adventure!
