George Town

Malaysia, Asia

George Town, the capital of the island of Penang, is renowned for its colorful colonial architecture and vibrant street art. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts a blend of cultures that reflects in its cuisine, festivals, and friendly locals. Explore its famous hawker centers, where you can indulge in local delicacies like Char Kway Teow and Penang Laksa. Don't miss the iconic street art and the historic sites like Fort Cornwallis and Khoo Kongsi. Its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and delicious food make it a must-visit!

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Penang

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in George Town

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore George Town's street art

Wander through the streets to discover vibrant murals.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Khoo Kongsi Clan House

Explore a stunning heritage clan house with intricate designs.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample local dishes at Gurney Drive

Indulge in various Penang street foods at this night market.

No booking required
4

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour Penang Hill

Take a funicular ride for panoramic views of the island.

Booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Penang Peranakan Mansion

Discover the rich heritage of the Peranakan culture.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Explore the iconic 'Blue Mansion' and its history.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Batu Ferringhi Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and water sports at this popular beach.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Penang National Park

Experience hiking and nature trails in a lush environment.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-15 (#199 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Malay

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Nasi Lemak

Coconut rice with sambal and toppings. (National dish)

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried flat noodles with shrimp and egg.

Laksa

Spicy noodle soup with coconut milk.

Roti Canai

V

Flaky flatbread served with curry.

Satay

Grilled skewers of marinated meat.

Phrases to learn

English

Malay

Hello

Salam

(Sah-lahm)

Yes/No

Ya / Tidak

(Yah / Tee-dahk)

Thank you

Terima kasih

(Teh-ree-mah kah-see)

Excuse me

Maaf

(Mah-ahf)

How much?

Berapa?

(Ber-ah-pah)