Are you ready for an incredible journey to George Town, Malaysia – one of the most vibrant and captivating destinations in Southeast Asia? Located on Penang Island, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is a lively melting pot of cultures, traditions, and history. Get ready for the rich history, diverse cuisine, and unique activities that make this destination an exceptional addition to your Malaysia itinerary. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or looking for unique cultural experiences, the top things to do in George Town, Malaysia offer something for everyone.
Things to do in George Town, Malaysia: FAQs
Why should I visit George Town?
George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it represents an exceptional example of a multicultural trading town in Southeast Asia. There are Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences present all around town. It has well-preserved colonial-era architecture, traditional shophouses, and historic landmarks. And if history isn’t your thing, there is no shortage of natural beauty and artistic gems. From captivating street art to Chinese clan houses, delicious street food, and traditional houses on stilts over the water, George Town is unlike anywhere you have been or will go.
When to visit George Town?
The best time to visit George Town is in its dry season, which runs from December to April. The weather is typically sunny, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. However, this is peak tourist season, so be prepared for some crowds.
From May to July, the weather is hot and humid but the crowds let up. The same is true for the wet season, which runs from August to November when the weather is unpredictable and rainfall is heavy. If you’re okay with the heat and/or rain, then this is a less crowded and more affordable time to visit.
How to get to George Town?
There are a variety of ways to get to George Town that can work with any budget and itinerary. Penang is well-connected, so you have various options to reach George Town from different parts of Malaysia and beyond.
- By air: Penang International Airport (PEN) is the closest airport to George City. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or car share service to George Town, which is about 20-30 minutes.
- By bus: If you are traveling from other parts of Malaysia, you can take a long-distance bus to Penang Sentral (the main bus station on the island). From there you can easily get to George Town by local bus, taxi or shared car.
- By train: Although there is no train station in Penang, you can take a train to Butterworth on the mainland. From Butterworth you can take the ferry across to George Town or drive over the Penang Bridge.
- By car: If you are traveling from other parts of Malaysia, you can take the North-South Expressway to reach Penang. George is easily accessible by road and car rental is available on the island.
- By boat: If you are coming from mainland Malaysia, you can take a ferry from Butterworth to Georgetown. The ship offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and is a unique way to travel to George Town.
Where should I stay in George Town?
The best place to stay to easily access major tourist sites is in the George Town Historic Center. Staying in the heart of George Town’s historic center allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. You’ll find many boutique hotels, guesthouses, and heritage properties in this area, appealing to various budgets and styles of travel. You’ll also be within walking distance from most of the sights on this list!
How long should I stay in George Town?
I recommend at least 2 full days in George Town. You can get a taste of George Town’s highlights in 2 days by exploring the historic center, sampling local street food, and admiring the city’s renowned street art. If you want to venture outside of George Town Historic Center, 3 to 5 days will allow you to take day trips to other areas in Penang.
Is George Town safe for solo female travelers?
George Town is a safe place for solo female travelers, but always remain vigilant and practice standard safety precautions. Because it’s such a small area, you’ll probably travel on foot most of the time. I felt very safe walking around George Town by myself during the day, but I’d recommend against walking alone at night. The country has a low violent crime rate, but you should always stay aware of your surroundings and stay in crowded, well-lit areas.
Top 14 Things to Do in George Town, Malaysia
1. Explore the street art
George Town is well-known for its vibrant street art scene, featuring captivating murals and sculptures crafted by talented local and international artists. These colorful artworks beautifully capture everyday life and the rich cultural heritage of the city. Make sure to stroll by “Little Children on a Bicycle,” “Boy on a Bike,” and “Kung Fu Girl,” some of the most famous pieces.
2. Penang Hill
Set outside of the historical city center, Penang Hill is the best place to take in views of George Town. After a 15-minute train ride to the summit, you can enjoy cooler temperatures, lush greenery, and breathtaking views of the city below. Penang Hill is also famous for its monkeys, but be careful and observe from a distance because they can be aggressive!
3. Kek Lok Si Temple
Next to Penang Hill is a colorful hilltop temple. Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the most significant and largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia! The grounds feature a towering Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of the city.
Want to visit Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple in just half a day with a local guide and hotel pick up and drop off? Book this convenient half-day tour.
4. Penang Botanic Gardens
Just a short drive from Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si, Penang Botanic Gardens provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can take a leisurely walk among the various plant species, enjoy the tranquility, and even spot monkeys. The highlight is the 122-meter-tall three-tiered waterfall.
5. Khoo Kongsi
This ornate Chinese clan house showcases stunning architectural details and intricate carvings. Serving as both a temple and a museum, it provides insight into the history of the Chinese community in Penang and their cultural heritage.
6. Choose from over 30 flavors of cake at the historic China House cafe
The China House is a renowned and multi-faceted cafe, restaurant, and arts space located in the heart of George Town. It’s a well-known establishment that offers an eclectic blend of dining, coffee, art, and culture. The cafe offers over 30 flavors of cake, a variety of coffee styles, and specialty beverages, making it the perfect place to take a snack break. Make sure to walk around the cafe grounds, exploring the art gallery and courtyard garden.
7. Clan Jetties
The Clan Jetties are unique waterfront communities where 19th-century traditional wooden stilt houses stand over the water. Explore the jetties to learn about the history and culture of these distinct Chinese clans, an interesting part of the multicultural history of George Town. There are 7 remaining jetties to visit, although the most worthwhile are Chew Jetty, Tan Jetty, Lee Jetty, and Yeoh Jetty.
8. Fort Cornwallis
Fort Cornwallis has a rich history and played a pivotal role during Penang’s colonial era. It was built in the late 18th century as a key defense point for the British against external threats. Taking a stroll around Fort Cornwallis provides a unique opportunity to delve into Penang’s colonial history and learn about its strategic significance during the British colonial period.
9. The Blue Mansion (Cheong Fatt Tze)
Visit this iconic indigo-blue mansion, a masterpiece of 19th-century Chinese architecture. The Blue House is one of the most Instagrammable spots in George Town, and for good reason. The mansion offers guided tours every day at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. that delve into its history and the life of its former owner, Cheong Fatt Tze. It’s recommended to book your tour in advance, which you can do here. If it’s in your budget, you can even stay at the Blue House.
10. Try white coffee at OO White Coffee Cafe
White coffee is a popular type of coffee in Malaysia, and OO White Coffee Cafe is one of the most famous places to try it. It’s called “white coffee” not because of the color, but because of the way it’s prepared. White coffee is traditionally made by roasting coffee beans with palm oil margarine, which results in a lighter roast than traditional coffee. If coffee isn’t your thing, the cafe also offers traditional Malaysian breakfast foods and non-coffee drinks. I recommend the kaya (sweet coconut jam) toast.
11. Eat street food at a hawker centre
Penang is famous for its culinary scene, especially its street food. The best place to find an abundance of authentic street food is at a hawker centre. These are open-air food courts where many food stalls offer affordable, famous local dishes. Don’t miss local specialties like char kway teow (stir-fried flat noodles), laksa (spicy noodle soup), cendol (a shaved ice dessert), and nasi kandar (a rice dish with various curries).
12. Indulge in Little India
In Little India, you can immerse yourself in Indian culture, enjoy Indian cuisine, and shop for colorful textiles and spices. Start exploring the area at Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Penang, which features colorful sculptures of gods and goddesses. This temple marks the start of Little India, where you’ll find vibrant streets lined with shops and restaurants. Treat yourself to lunch or dinner at one of the many delicious Indian restaurants.
13. Wonder Food Museum
After visiting so many cultural heritage sights, the Wonder Food Museum is an entertaining and lighthearted way to learn about Malaysia’s cuisine. The museum features interactive sculptures and installations of various local and international dishes. It provides information about the history and cultural significance of various dishes, offering visitors insights into the culinary diversity of Malaysia.
Get a discounted ticket to the Wonder Food Museum here!
14. Enjoy nightlife on Love Lane
Love Lane is a well-known street in George Town with a reputation for its vibrant nightlife scene, mostly amongst travelers and backpackers. There are bars and pubs, street food, restaurants, live music, and a friendly atmosphere where you can socialize with fellow travelers and enjoy the end of your busy day. Don’t miss out on Gravy Baby, a Malaysian restaurant and bar chain famous for its cocktails and pies.
There you have it, the top 14 things to do in George Town, Malaysia! Whether you’re strolling through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets, indulging in local street food, or searching for the city’s captivating street art, this destination is a traveler’s dream come true.
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