Planning Your Trip to George Town, Penang
Essential Information
Country and State
Malaysia, Penang
Timezone
GMT+8
Languages Spoken
Malay, English, Hokkien, Mandarin, Tamil
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Weather and Climate in Penang
George Town enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round. Here’s a general overview:
- January-February: Dry season, warm temperatures (24°C – 31°C). Ideal for exploring!
- March-May: Transition period, increasing humidity and rainfall. Temperatures remain warm (25°C – 32°C).
- June-August: Relatively drier period within the monsoon season. Warm and humid (25°C – 32°C).
- September-November: Peak monsoon season, expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. Temperatures around (24°C – 31°C).
- December: Transition to dry season, less rainfall. Warm (24°C – 31°C).
George Town City Overview
George Town, the captivating capital of Penang, Malaysia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s famed for its rich history, diverse culture, and incredibly delicious cuisine. You’ll find influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European cultures everywhere you look, especially in the architecture, vibrant street art, and amazing food scene.
Wander through well-preserved colonial buildings, explore bustling streets brimming with hawker stalls, and uncover hidden temples and clan houses. George Town’s charm is in its seamless blending of old and new. It is a really unique experience for every visitor! The relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make it perfect for experiencing Malaysian life. Discover hidden alleyways filled with art, sample street food, and soak up the heritage of this gem!
Best Time to Visit Penang
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide when to travel:
- January-February: Pros: Dry season, pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing. Cons: Peak tourist season, potentially higher prices for flights and accommodation.
- June-August: Pros: Relatively drier within the monsoon season. Cons: Still humid, with a chance of rain showers.
- March-May & December: Pros: Shoulder season, fewer crowds, reasonably good weather. Cons: A bit of rain is possible.
- September-November: Pros: Lower prices on flights and hotels, fewer tourists. Cons: Expect heavy rain and high humidity.
Getting to George Town and Visa Requirements
- Flights: Penang International Airport (PEN) has direct flights from many Asian cities and connecting flights from all over the world. Check Flights Now
- Trains: The main train station is in Butterworth (across the Penang Strait). Take a ferry or bus from Butterworth to George Town.
- Visa Details: Check visa requirements with the Malaysian embassy or consulate. Many nationalities get visa-free entry for tourism.
- Airport Transfers: Taxis and Grab (ride-hailing) are easy to find at the airport. Buses also connect to George Town. Book Airport Transfer
George Town: History and Culture
Fun Historical Fact
George Town is famous for its street art! Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic’s murals from the “Mirrors George Town” project are now iconic. People love posing with the art, making George Town a street art paradise.
Famous People from George Town
Jimmy Choo – a Malaysian fashion designer living in the UK. He’s known for co-founding Jimmy Choo Ltd, famous for handmade women’s shoes.
Top Attractions in George Town, Penang
Don’t miss these must-see spots:
- Khoo Kongsi: A stunning Chinese clan house.
- Address: 18 Cannon Square, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion: A beautifully restored blue mansion. Consider a guided tour! Book a Blue Mansion Tour
- Address: 14, Leith St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
- Penang Street Art: Find murals and steel caricatures all over the city.
- Address: Various locations throughout George Town.
- Fort Cornwallis: A historic fort built by the British.
- Address: Esplanade Road, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Penang State Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Penang.
- Address: Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Kek Lok Si Temple: A large Buddhist temple complex.
- Address: Air Itam, 11500 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
- Penang Hill: Great views of George Town. Buy Penang Hill Tickets
- Address: Air Itam, 11500 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
- Clan Jetties: Traditional waterfront settlements.
- Address: Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Kapitan Keling Mosque: A historic mosque with Moorish architecture.
- Address: 14, Jalan Buckingham, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Little India: Explore the colorful shops and restaurants.
- Address: Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Hidden Gems in Penang
For a unique experience, check out these spots:
- Hin Bus Depot Art Centre: Art market and exhibitions (weekends).
- Address: 31A, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Armenian Street: Quaint street with cafes and art galleries.
- Address: Lebuh Armenian, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Tropical Spice Garden: Discover various spices and herbs.
- Address: Lot 595 Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Local Festivals and Events
Experience the local culture:
- Thaipusam: Hindu festival (January/February).
- Chinese New Year: Lion dances and celebrations (January/February).
- George Town Festival: Arts and culture festival (July/August).
- Hungry Ghost Festival: Traditional Chinese festival (August/September).
Day Trips from George Town
- Batu Ferringhi (30 minutes): Beach resort, water sports, night markets.
- Penang National Park (45 minutes): Hiking trails.
- Balik Pulau (1 hour): Durian farms and villages.
Photography Hotspots
- Penang Street Art: Countless photo opportunities.
- Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion: Stunning architecture.
- Penang Hill: Panoramic views.
- Clan Jetties: Unique waterfront setting.
Where to Stay in Penang
Recommended Stay Duration
3-4 days is perfect.
Top Hotels
Budget Hotels
- Red Inn Cabana: 55 Love Ln, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Check Availability
- House of Journey: 342 Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Reggae Mansion Penang: 47, Love Ln, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Check Availability
Mid-Range Hotels
- Seven Terraces: Stewart Ln, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Check Availability
- Muntri Street: 42, Muntri St, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Hotel Penaga: Lebuh Clarke, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- The Edison George Town: 15 Lebuh Leith, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Check Availability
Luxury Hotels
- Eastern & Oriental Hotel: 10, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Check Availability
- G Hotel Gurney: 168A, Gurney Dr, George Town, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang: Batu Feringgi Main Road, Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia (Located in Batu Ferringhi) Check Availability
Getting Around George Town
- Public Transport: Rapid Penang buses are the main option.
- Taxis: Available, negotiate fares.
- Ride-Hailing: Grab is convenient and affordable.
- Bikes: Rentals available, great for the city center.
- Walking: George Town is walkable!
Preparing for Your Trip
What to Pack
- Light clothing.
- Walking shoes.
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
- Rain gear.
- Modest clothing.
- Insect repellent.
Useful Apps for Penang
- Google Maps: Navigation.
- Grab: Ride-hailing.
- Rapid Penang: Bus routes.
- Penang Foodie: Restaurant recommendations.
Safety and Cultural Tips
- Watch your belongings.
- Bargain respectfully.
- Remove shoes at temples/mosques.
- Dress modestly.
- Learn Malay phrases.
- Be aware of traffic.
Food, Fun & Finds in Penang
Top Restaurants in George Town
- Tek Sen Restaurant: Popular Chinese-Malaysian dishes.
- Description: Known for Assam Fish and Double Roasted Pork.
- Address: 18C, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Central George Town
- Red Garden Food Paradise: Hawker center.
- Description: A food court with Char Kway Teow, satay, and more.
- Address: 20, Lebuh Leith, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Georgetown
- China House: Trendy cafe.
- Description: Shops, cafes, and restaurants with a variety of food and drinks.
- Address: 153, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
- Location: Georgetown
- Kebaya Dining Room (Seven Terraces): Peranakan cuisine.
- Description: Fine dining in a heritage building.
- Address: Stewart Ln, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Georgetown
- Orinea by Farquhar Mansion: Rooftop restaurant.
- Description: Modern European cuisine with views.
- Address: Level 68, Gurney Paragon Mall, 163D-6-18, Persiaran Gurney, George Town, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Gurney Drive
Must-Try Penang Dishes
- Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried noodles.
- Assam Laksa: Spicy fish noodle soup.
- Nasi Kandar: Rice with curries.
- Penang Rojak: Fruit salad.
- Cendol: Shaved ice dessert.
Nightlife in Penang
- Upper Penang Road: Bars and clubs.
- Description: A popular nightlife destination.
- Address: Upper Penang Road, George Town
- Location: Georgetown
- China House: Live music.
- Description: Relaxed atmosphere, live music.
- Address: 153, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
- Location: Georgetown
- Muntri Street: Bars and restaurants.
- Description: Outdoor seating.
- Address: Muntri Street, George Town
- Location: Georgetown
- Little India Night Market (weekends): Street food.
- Description: A bustling night market with street food.
- Address: Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Little India
Shopping & Souvenirs
- Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul (Lebuh Keng Kwee)– You can’t leave Penang without having this famous dessert.
- Description: A place to get the best Chendul.
- Address: Lebuh Keng Kwee, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Georgetown
- Hin Bus Depot Art Centre (weekend market): Local crafts.
- Description: Unique crafts and souvenirs.
- Address: 31A, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Georgetown
- Little India: Spices, textiles.
- Description: Spices and Indian clothing.
- Address: Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Little India
- Chowrasta Market: Local produce.
- Description: Local produce and souvenirs.
- Address: Jalan Chowrasta, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Location: Georgetown
