Everything You Need to Know about George Town in Penang
George Town is in the heart of Penang and a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s full of character. This place is like a time capsule of multicultural influences, with colonial-era buildings sitting alongside Chinese temples, Indian mosques, and quirky street art.
The streets have this amazing blend of history and modern life, where hawker stalls serve up sizzling noodles just steps away from chic and boutique hotels. Now, George Town isn’t just Penang’s capital—it’s a history in itself.
You’ll find traces of British colonial architecture mixed with influences from Chinese traders and Indian settlers, creating a unique cultural melting pot.
Where is George Town?
George Town is right in the northern part of Penang Island, Malaysia. It’s the capital city of the state of Penang and sits along the Straits of Malacca, giving it this stunning coastal vibe.
If you’re trying to picture where it is, think of Penang Island as part of northwest Malaysia, connected to the mainland by bridges.
How to Get to George Town
By plane: If you’re flying in, you’ll land at Penang International Airport, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Then hop in a Grab (it’s like Southeast Asia’s Uber) or catch a Rapid Penang bus heading to the city center.
By car or ferry: Coming from the mainland? You can either drive over the Penang Bridge or take the ferry from Butterworth—it’s cheap and gives you gorgeous views of the coastline on your way!
Once you’re in George Town, everything’s pretty walkable, but bikes and scooters are a fun and easy way to explore, too.
Best Time to Go to George Town
The best time to visit George Town is during the annual George Town Festival, which takes place around August. This celebration showcases local arts, culture, and heritage, drawing visitors from around the globe.
You’ll also love the energetic Thaipusam Festival, typically in late January or early February, where devotees parade through the streets with elaborate offerings in honor of Hindu traditions.
What to Do and See in George Town
Explore the Pinang Peranakan Mansion’s ornate heritage decor
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Address: 29, Church St.
Contact details: +6 04 264 2929
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adult – RM25
- Children (ages 6 to 12) – RM12
- Junior children (ages below 6) – Free
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is where you’ll be stepping into the life of the Peranakans (or Straits Chinese). Every corner of the mansion is filled with intricate details, from ornate wooden furniture to chandeliers, imported tiles, and stained-glass windows.
They give you an up-close look at how the Peranakans lived, showcasing the wealth and opulence of the era. One of the coolest parts here is the extensive collection of antiques and artifacts—we’re talking over 1,000 pieces!
Expect to see everything from elaborate jewelry to decorative household items. There’s even a traditional bridal chamber on display that highlights old wedding customs.
Admire quirky murals at Penang Street Art
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Address: 316, Beach St.
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
George Town is famous for its street art scene, and Penang Street Art is where it all kicks off. Here you’ll find the iconic works by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, whose murals helped put Penang on the global art map.
From the playful kids on bicycles to brothers and sisters on a swing, these artworks blend seamlessly into the environment, featuring walls, rickshaws, and doorways. The cool thing is that they’re all interactive—people love posing with these murals!
The best way to explore is on foot, so wear comfy shoes—you’ll want to wander and take your time. While you’re walking the street, don’t miss out on the local shops and cafes lining the road.
Wander the Clan Jetties for traditional waterfront village vibes
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Address: Pengkalan Weld
Contact details: +6 019 593 5333
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
The Clan Jetties are a glimpse into the unique heritage of George Town. These stilted wooden houses, built over the water, were once part of a bustling Chinese settlement where different clans lived and worked.
Each jetty is named after its founding clan, like the Chew Jetty, which is the most visited. You’ll also find a few small stalls filled with handicrafts and trinkets.
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t skip, it’s exploring the temple at the jetty—it’s small but rich with history. Just be respectful while you’re visiting, as these are still active homes for many families.
Catch art exhibitions at the creative Hin Bus Depot
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Address: 31A, Jalan Gurdwara
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
For a different artsy experience, the Hin Bus Depot is a repurposed bus depot that’s become a creative hub for modern art, showcasing works from some of Malaysia’s artists. You’ll find rotating exhibitions inside and murals adorning the walls outside.
Aside from the permanent art pieces, the depot regularly hosts pop-up events. Think art markets, craft fairs, live performances, and workshops that make it more than just an exhibition space—it’s an experience.
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a weekend, don’t miss the Hin Market. This weekly event combines indie crafts, artisanal food vendors, and local produce all in one place.
Stroll through the serene landscapes at the Botanical Gardens Penang
Address: Kompleks Pentadbiran, Bangunan Pavilion
Contact details: +6 04 226 4401
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
The Botanical Gardens Penang is a lush retreat where locals go to relax, work out, ot just enjoy some peace. It’s got sprawling greenery, towering trees, and well-maintained pathways that are perfect for a stroll.
One of the highlights here is the collection of flora—there are themed gardens for orchids, cacti, and herbs, so you’re bound to find something fascinating. Keep an eye out for giant lily pads in the ponds and the mischievous monkeys all over the place!
Another fun activity here is taking the paved trails if you’re up for a short hike. The garden connects to the nearby Penang Hill, so it’s a great starting point for adventurous trekkers.
Feast on street eats at the buzzing Macallum Street Night Market
Address: Lintang Macallum 1, Pengkalan Weld
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday – 7 PM to 11 PM
If you’re looking to dive headfirst into Penang’s legendary street food scene, the Macallum Street Night Market is where you want to be. This bustling market comes to life in the evening and is a paradise for foodies.
From savory char kway teow to sweet apom balik, you’re bound to find something that makes your taste buds dance. There are also stalls for noodles, skewers, fried goodies, and even cool desserts like ais kacang to help beat the heat.
You won’t need to break the bank either, as most dishes are cheap but incredibly delicious. Just bring cash, wear comfy shoes, and maybe a tote bag for any extra snacks you want to bring home.
Visit the historic P. Ramlee House
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Address: Lot 2180, Jalan P. Ramlee, Taman P. Ramlee
Contact details: +6 04 281 7484
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 12 PM, 3 PM to 5 PM
For all the music and film buffs out there, the P. Ramlee House is a treat you don’t want to miss. This small museum is dedicated to one of Malaysia’s most celebrated stars, P. Ramlee.
The house is filled with memorabilia from his career, including original movie posters, musical instruments, and photographs. You get to see where P. Ramlee grew up with rooms preserved to reflect the era.
You’ll be able to learn about his contributions to the film industry, as both an actor and director, and also his achievements in music.
Snap pics of the iconic Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower
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The Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower stands tall as a tribute to Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Built in 1897, it’s one of the city’s most recognizable features.
Fun fact: The tower stands 60 feet high, with each foot representing a year of Queen Victoria’s reign. As you walk around it, you’ll notice the detailed carvings and motifs that make it a piece of art in itself.
The area around the clock tower is usually bustling, but it’s worth fighting for the perfect photo angle—try visiting early to avoid the crowds.
Immerse yourself in food culture at Wonderfood Museum
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Address: 49, Lebuh Pantai
Contact details: +6 04 251 9095
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Cost:
- Adult – RM5
- Child (ages 3 to 12), Senior (ages 60 to 99) – RM4
Visiting the Wonderfood Museum is like walking into a giant pantry filled with massive replicas of Malaysian dishes. From huge platters of nasi lemak to satay and roti canai, the museum showcases the diverse culinary delights in larger-than-life displays.
One of the highlights here is the detailed craftsmanship of the food replicas. They look astonishingly real, and it’s fascinating to see how each dish is meticulously recreated.
You’ll get to learn about how food plays an integral role in social gatherings, religious ceremonies, and everyday life in Malaysia. Don’t miss out on the quirky photo ops—they’re perfect for your social media feeds!
Enjoy thrilling attractions at The TOP Penang Theme Park
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Address: 1, Jln Penang
Contact details: +6 017 289 0366
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
- Tuesday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Cost: Prices vary per themed rooms, so check the complete prices here
Located in Komtar Tower, the TOP Penang is an action-packed spot with a fantastic array of attractions. Head to the Rainbow Skywalk for heart-pounding views—this transparent walkway lets you stroll out over the city from the top of Penang’s tallest building.
Another major attraction here is the Tech Dome, where you can explore interactive exhibits that highlight everything from space exploration to robotics. Then there’s the Jurassic Research Center—a step back in time where you’ll walk among life-sized dinosaur replicas.
Of course, there are also a variety of dining options and shops within the complex.
Where to Eat and Drink in George Town
Lagenda House & Cafe
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Address: 2, Lebuh Carnarvon
Phone: +6 019 472 9030
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday, Thursday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 PM to 11 PM
Good to know: Ideal for family or big groups
Lagenda House & Cafe has carved a name for itself as a go-to halal spot, especially for locals and travelers looking to dive into Malaysian flavors. Now, let’s talk offerings—this place specializes in hearty, satisfying meals that scream “comfort food”.
You’re going to want to zero in on the Pak Belalang’s beef rendang and the prawn or squid lemak pineapple. Both of these dishes are rich, flavorful, and crowd favorites.
Aroma Eatery
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Address: 28, 30, Jalan Pintal Tali
Phone: +6 017 736 2421
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday and Thursday – 3 PM to 11 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 PM to 11 PM
Good to know: Ideal for family or big groups, gatherings
Aroma Eatery, a halal restaurant, has built its rep on hearty meals that make you feel like you’re getting a little bit of everything Penang has to offer. They keep things straightforward but flavorful, and the best part is their set options.
These are perfect if you’ve got a bunch of mouths to feed, featuring fish samba, smoked duck, and so much more! Now, if there’s one dish that gets people coming back, it’s their nasi lemak fried chicken—every bite of it is as good as the last.
Chang Noi Restaurant
@penangfoodie Spotted this humble restaurant in Penang run by Thai locals 🇹🇭 📍Chang Noi Restaurant, 99, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, Penang [Non-Halal] #penang #penangfood #penangfoodie
♬ ดอกไม้ที่รอฝน (spring) – THE TOYS & NONT TANONT
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Address: 99, Lebuh Melayu
Phone: +6 012 440 0639
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Good to know: Ideal for casual meals
Chang Noi Restaurant is where Thai and Chinese flavors come together for something truly memorable. If you’re here, two dishes deserve your attention: the stir-fried pork with spicy gravy and the tom kha seafood soup.
The pork fish is deliciously savoury, and the tom kha seafood soup—creamy from coconut milk—is a fantastic pick for balancing the flavors. Oh, and since the gravy in the pork dish packs a kick, you can mention to the server about its spicy level.
Damas Penang (Arabic Restaurant)
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Address: 114, Jalan Burma
Phone: +6 04 240 2724
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Good to know: Perfect for family or big group gatherings
Damas Penang serves up a full array of Middle Eastern classics that are perfect for a quick solo lunch or a celebratory feast. If you’re planning your meal, two recommendations you can’t miss are their shawarma platters and mixed grilled meats.
The portions here are generous, so it’s great for sharing, especially if you want to try a variety of offerings in one visit. Also, give their WhatsApp a try for quick inquiries or reservations—it’s a convenient way to sort things out without waiting.
SmokePapa BBQ
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Address: 41, Lebuh Bishop
Phone: +6 016 417 7803
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for a lunch meal with friends, intimate gatherings
SmokePapa BBQ doesn’t mess around—they specialize in hearty options of slow-cooked meats that have been beautifully smoked to perfection. They’ve got all the classics here—ribs, brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken—you name it.
A couple of must-try items are their popular USA Angus beef brisket and the jalapeno cheddar pork sausage. If you’re coming with a big group of family (you have to, because the portions are significant!), they have platter options that give you a taste of different grilled types in one order.
Where to Stay in and near George Town
JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La
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Address: Magazine Rd.
Phone: +6 04 262 2622
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
JEN Penang is ideally situated for travelers who want to explore popular attractions like Komtar Tower, Penang Street Art, and local street food spots without venturing too far. The rooms here are contemporary and designed with comfort in mind.
Some of the highlights include the hotel’s outdoor pool, fitness center, and kid-friendly facilities such as the children’s pool. What’s more, the hotel offers shuttle services if you’re planning to venture further around Penang.
Eastern & Oriental Hotel (Heritage Wing)
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Address: 10, Lebuh Farquhar
Phone: +6 04 222 2000
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel has been around since the 1800s and exudes timeless elegance, so staying here feels like stepping into a piece of Penang’s colonial-era past. It offers unbeatable waterfront views of the Andaman Sea.
Rooms here are spacious and ooze classic luxury, complete with clawfoot tubs and period-style furnishings. The hotel also offers extras like a 24-hour butler service and access to a private lounge where you can enjoy afternoon tea and evening cocktails.
The Millen Penang, Autograph Collection
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Address: 55, Jln Sultan Ahmad Shah
Phone: +6 04 565 8888
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Millen Penang, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is a stylish newcomer to George Town’s array of luxury hotels. The hotel offers stunning views—some rooms overlook the city, while others open up to the coastline.
One of the standout features of The Millen is its rooftop infinity pool, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the ocean. Dining here doesn’t disappoint with their all-day restaurant offering a mix of international and local fare.
Penang Marriott Hotel
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Address: 55, Gurney Dr.
Phone: +6 04 566 1888
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Penang Marriott Hotel is located right along the waterfront, making it perfect for evening strolls and easy access to the region’s famous hawker food scene. Plus, key landmarks like Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon Mall are just a short walk away.
Rooms here are spacious and fitted with modern amenities, plus you can upgrade to a room with a sea-facing view. The hotel also boasts a large outdoor pool and fitness center, and its breakfast spread is particularly impressive.
The George Penang By The Crest Collection
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Address: 138, Jln Penang
Phone: +6 04 291 9000
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The George Penang by The Crest Collection is where old-world elegance meets contemporary comforts. This boutique hotel is perfect for history enthusiasts, as it’s within walking distance of major sights like the Pinang Peranakan Mansion and Penang Street Art.
Many rooms offer lovely views of either the city or its surrounding heritage zone. They also offer exclusive concierge services to help plan your itinerary, whether it’s recommending street food spots or arranging transport to Penang Hill.