A vibrant city in Malaysia, Penang is a travellers’ paradise. Being an island destination, it has everything from rich culture to exotic beauty to lure and impress tourists from all across the globe.
From markets to temples to architecture to heritage, tourism in Penang covers a diverse range of attractions. Planning a 3-day trip will give you a chance to witness and admire the surreal beauty of Penang.
Hence, we have created an ultimate 3-day Penang itinerary covering the best of the city for a fun-filled and indelible vacation in Malaysia.
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The Ultimate 3-Day Penang Itinerary – Plan Your Trip to Penang with this Guide
Table of Contents
Planning Your Trip
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Where to Stay in Penang
Are 3 Days in Penang Enough?
Penang is a beautiful island city that will surely keep you on your feet. Though the beauty of the city cannot be summed up in one visit yet, 3 days are enough to explore the best of Penang. Travellers often consider the city as a quick stopover. However, a 3-day Penang itinerary is more than enough for a memorable vacation time.
How to Get Around Penang?
The best way to get around Penang, as with any country in Asia, is definitely by motorised transport. Renting a car or scooter is cheap and easy to do, and allows the most flexibility during your trip to Malaysia.
Scooters can be rented easily once you arrive in the city, as there are a lot of shops offering rental services. Be careful when it comes to renting, however, as it is common for tourists to get scammed by the rental company keeping your passport and then claiming you damaged their vehicle and refusing to give the passport back. Go with a reputable vendor that has good Google reviews and ever leave your passport as collateral.
If you are not experienced in riding a motorbike, then a car is the obvious choice as the roads in Malaysia can be busy and dangerous to inexperienced drivers. We use Discover Cars when renting vehicles abroad as they have the widest range of car rental companies and always find the best deals. You can browse all of the car rentals available in Penang here.
Best Time to Visit Penang
Penang is a year-round Malaysian city and is often known as a popular weekend getaway from Kuala Lumpur. However, the best time to visit the island city is from November to January. During these months, the weather in Penang is all pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
This is also the time that marks the onset of Christmas and New Year, giving another reason to visit Penang during this time. This is also the time when bars and restaurants in Penang are in a full festive atmosphere.
If you are looking to plan an off-season visit to Penang, then the months from February to April are perfect for making your travel plans. This is a quieter time as tourists usually leave the city after Christmas and New Year celebrations. Hence, you can expect to explore tourist sites with fewer tourists.
On the other hand, May to October is the wettest time, and there is a drop in tourist footfall in Penang. However, it is also the time when you can plan a trip if you are looking for a quieter season and also to save some money. However, make sure to have a raincoat or umbrella all the time for frequent rain showers. This is also the season when you will get some great discounts and deals on hotels and flight tickets.
DAY 1:
Georgetown
Start off your Penang tour with a visit to Georgetown. On the tour, explore the best of its attractions.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
Also known as the Blue Mansion, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is one of the key highlights in Georgetown. The has a striking appeal that attracts the eyes of tourists. However, its the historical significance that has made Cheong Fatt Tze. It was built by Cheong Fatt Tze, a Chinese businessman, for one of his wives.
Not only this, the mansion also served as a refuge place for the homeless. However, for a few years, it went into disrepair until it was restored to its original magnificence and converted into a boutique recreational hotel.
Despite being an accommodation, it also serves as a renowned tourist place. As a result, guided tours are conducted on weekdays at 11 am, 2 pm, and 3:30 pm and at 11 am and 2 pm on weekends.
Penang Street Arts
Calling out all the art lovers. Penang is a destination that has so much street art. Georgetown is one of the places in the city which is enriched with street art. Popular artists like Ernest Zacharevic have painted the streets of Penang with their beautiful murals.
For a fact, the government commissioned a local artist to design metal sculptures throughout the streets of Penang. These sculptures talk about the rich history and cultural diversity of Penang.
Some of the popular spots where you can find intriguing artwork in Penang are Lebuh Ah Quee, Lebuh Armenia, and Lebuh Cannon. Besides, you can also find some less popular street art at Hin Bus Deport.
If you want to explore the street at a time with a minimum of people, make sure to visit at around 8 am. The peak time is when people are on the go at around 9-10 am.
Esplanade
Located in the civic district of the city, Esplanade is a beautiful large green space that is known to house colonial buildings such as the City Hall and Town Hall on the waterfront. Take a stroll around this beautiful space and admire the surreal beauty.
Once you are done exploring the place, there are a few options to stop by to try the local delicacies at the food court. There is also Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower which is also a must-visit place in the region.
Love Lane
As unique as its name sounds, Love Lane is indeed an intriguing place tucked far away from the city center of Penang. Love Lane is basically a beautiful stretch of colonial area shophouses.
This is also a place that can be the opening location to start off your Penang itinerary of 3 days. If you are a coffee lover, then do not forget to try the local white coffee that includes lightly roasted beans in palm oil and is best served with condensed milk, both hot and cold.
Chulia Street
To sum up day 1 of your Penang tour, Chulia Street is the best place. It comes alive after 6 pm and makes for a perfect stopover for some fun evening time. It is one of the oldest roads in Georgetown in Penang.
The street has a unique charm and is lined up with boutique hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and cafes. Along with that, there are also plenty of hawker stalls to grab a drink or relish the local food.
An interesting fact about this street is that it was formally named Malabar Street, which had a reference to Indians who moved to Georgetown from Malabar. However, the name was later changed to 1798 to Chulia Street. The term “Chulia” derives from Chulier, which refers to Indians from Tamil Nadu’s coastal areas.
Today, the street is a popular spot for tourists, especially the ones who are tight on budget, as there are a lot of cafes, hotels, restaurants, and hawkers that are highly affordable.
DAY 2:
Penang National Park and Batu Ferringhi
Let’s serve you a unique experience on day 2 in Penang, where you will explore Penang National Park and Batu Ferringhi.
Penang National Park
Penang National Park is one of the most amazing places to visit in Penang. Sprawls over a huge area of 23 sq km, it is a relatively smaller park but an absolute beauty to explore. The park is known to feature exquisite beauty, which includes a seasonal meromictic lake. It is a unique lake that is formed by layer of unmixed seawater and freshwater.
It has more than 417 species of flora and 143 species of fauna which includes flying lemurs, tailed macaque monkeys, amphibians, turtles, and more. In addition to wildlife, there is plenty of things to do in Penang National Park.
Hiking is one of the prominent activities here. There are two main trails – Monkey Beach and Turtle Sanctuary. Along with that, there is also an off-to-beaten path that takes you to the beach of Teluk Kampi.
If hiking is not your cup of tea, then a boat trip is something that you would love to do at Penang National Park on your Penang itinerary for family. The boat rides take you to Monkey Beach and Turtle Sanctuary.
There is also a garden, Penang Botanic Gardens, which is also a key highlight in the region. It features a variety of flora and fauna, along with walking tracks.
Batu Ferringhi Night Market
After spending a whole at Penang National Park, the next stop is Batu Ferringhi Night Market. Besides, when vacationing in Malaysia, you just cannot miss markets. Batu Ferringhi Night Market is one such destination that is a perfect representation of Malaysian markets.
The market is located in the quaint little town of Batu Ferringhi, some 15 km from Georgetown. Batu Ferringhi is a bustling night market that everything to keep you on your toes.
The real buzz of the market begins after 7 pm when all shop vendors are done installing their carts along the town’s main road. At the market, you can find stalls selling well-crafted dupes of the popular shoe, sandal, and backpack brands.
In addition, it’s the food that will also keep you engaged at the Batu Ferringhi Night Market. There are plenty of restaurants and food carts that serve a wide selection of Penang favorites and that too at reasonable rates.
DAY 3:
Kek Lok Si & Penang Hill
The best attraction of Penang is saved for the last. On the last day of your Penang tour, you will visit Kek Lok Si & Penang Hill.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Located outside Georgetown, Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in Penang. Such is the sacred significance of this temple that devotees from all across the globe come to this place to pay their homage.
However, the temple is also known for its beaut location as it is beautifully tucked away in the valleys of Penang. As a result, the temple also serves as a popular spot to capture stunning views over the valleys.
Talking about the key highlight of the temple, there is a seven-storied Pagoda of Rama VI which is known to house 10000 alabaster and bronze statues of Buddha. There are stairs that take you to the top of the Pagoda, and admire the surreal views of Penang City.
Penang Hill
Another not-to-miss attraction in Penang is Penang Hill. It is located in close proximity to Kek Lok Si Temple. The hill station was built by the British, and hence, it has plenty of historical significance as well as a small hill paradise located in the center of Penang Island.
From the hill, you can capture the breathtaking views of the city. Besides, the coolest climate also makes this place slightly different from the rest of Penang. However, that’s just not it! The fun part is that there are two ways to reach Penang Hill.
Depending on your energy and fitness level, you can choose the suitable one. The famous and busy route is Penang Hill Railway. Whereas, the lesser popular route is Penang Hill Heritage Trail.
Being the busiest route, the first one could be time-consuming to take you to the hill as you will have to wait in lines. On the other hand, the Heritage Trail will require a little help from locals to reach to the top of Penang Hill.
Gurney Drive
After indulging in a hike to Penang Hill, it’s time to visit an attraction that will help you unwind. What could be more relaxing and refreshing than relishing some local food? Well, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is one such place that offers the best of Penang food.
It is a food court that is counted amongst the best hawker centres in Malaysia. Besides, it is a haven for food buffs. While exploring this place, the must-try local delicacies are char kway tewo, laksa, chee cheong fun, and satay.
Before You Leave for Penang
Before you set off on your way to Penang, there are a number of things you will need to get organised to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. These include what to pack, where to stay and what is the best insurance for your trip. All of this is discussed in detail below.
How to Get to Penang
Getting to Penang is quite convenient and offers various transportation options for travelers. If you prefer flying, Penang has its own international airport, Penang International Airport, with direct flights from major cities in Asia. From the airport, you can easily take a taxi or a ride-sharing service to your desired destination. Another option is taking a ferry from Butterworth, which is connected to the mainland by train and bus services. The ferry ride offers a scenic view of the island and takes around 15 minutes. For those who enjoy road trips, Penang is accessible by car from neighboring cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore via well-maintained highways. Additionally, bus services operate from major cities in Malaysia to Penang, making it a convenient option for budget travelers. With these transportation options available, travelers have multiple choices to reach the beautiful island of Penang and start exploring its rich culture and attractions.
The Petronas Towers in KL ⬇️
Where to Stay in Penang
What to Pack for Your Trip to Penang
When packing for your trip to Penang, it’s important to keep the tropical climate in mind. Light and breathable clothing is essential to stay cool and comfortable in the warm and humid weather. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the strong sun rays. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan on exploring the city’s vibrant streets and markets. A swimsuit is a great addition, as Penang boasts beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities. Insect repellent can also come in handy to ward off mosquitoes, especially during the evenings. Lastly, include a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated as you wander through the streets and indulge in Penang’s famous street food. With these items in your luggage, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the diverse attractions and natural beauty that Penang has to offer.
Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you are no doubt going to see around here, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.
Photography Equipment
Main Photography Camera – Sony A7v Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii Mirrorless Camera
Microphone – Sony Mic ECM-B1M
Main Lens – Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8
Zoom Lens – Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8
Camera Tripod – ZOMEI Z669C Camera Tripod
Gorilla Pod – JOBY JB01507-BWW GorillaPod
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 11 and Insta 360 One RS
Drone Camera – DJI Mavic Pro 3
Camera Bag – Wandrd PRVKE 41L and The Nest by Tropicfeel
Phone Tripod – Manfrotto MKPIXICLAMP-BK, Mini Tripod with Universal Smartphone Clamp
Sturdy Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick – ATUMTEK 61″ Selfie Stick Tripod, Sturdy Phone Tripod Stand with Wireless Remote
Hard Drives – LaCie Rugged Mini, 5TB, 2.5″, Portable External Hard Drive
SSD – SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB Portable NVMe SSD
Travel Adapter –Worldwide Travel Adapter Universal Travel Plug with 4 USB Ports+Universal AC Socke
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Penang
I know travel insurance is the least enjoyable thing to purchase and look at when you’re planning a trip, however, you wouldn’t want to be without it in the event that something happened. Accidents can happen anywhere and the extortionate medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.
To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We can recommend using SafetyWing, a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support. It is also nomad-friendly, unlike most other insurance companies, meaning you do not need to worry about being out of your home country for too long.
Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered!
The Petronas Towers in KL ⬇️
So there you have it, your Ultimate 3-Day Penang Itinerary. If you are visiting this incredible city and have any other questions on what to expect, leave us a comment down below. We love to chat about this stuff! If you have already been, Let us know in the comments below!
Also, remember to share this with your friends and family that you are going to share this amazing experience with. Sharing is caring and we want to ensure that everyone is fully prepared to maximise their experience completing this stunning walk.
If you are planning a Malaysia trip soon then check out our other Malaysia content right here. Come and find us on social media to see where we are currently exploring. Tag us in your photos from your stay and we will share them with the rest of our community of explorers and backpackers.
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