Things to Do in Penang

September 29, 2025

Image via mypenang.gov.my

Known for its historic city, stunning beaches, and a vibrant local food scene, there are countless places to discover and things to do in Penang.

If you're coming from Kuala Lumpur, you'll notice the unique blend of tradition and modernity here—a true highlight of Malaysia.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a devoted foodie, or seeking memorable family experiences, Penang's must-visit spots promise lasting memories for everyone.

Things to Do in Penang with Family and Kids

• Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm: Home to thousands of butterflies in a lush ecosystem, this attraction offers hands-on learning and a wonderful family day out.
• TeddyVille Museum: Showcasing teddy bears of all shapes, sizes, and eras, this museum delights kids and offers a dose of nostalgia for adults.
• Youth Park Playground: Enjoy playground facilities, swimming pools, and picnic areas, giving families plenty of space for quality time together.

Things to Do in Penang with Friends

• ESCAPE Penang: An outdoor theme park featuring zip lines and water games, designed to cater for all ages seeking adventure.
• Penang National Park: If you’re up for an adventure, the national park offers jungle trekking to secluded beaches such as Turtle Beach and the chance to spot unique plants and wildlife.
• Wonderfood Museum: Explore creative, larger-than-life replicas of local delicacies—ideal for fun family photos and learning about Penang’s food culture.

Things to Do in Penang for Couples

• Love Lane: This lively street is lined with cafés, bars, and restaurants, making it a great choice for evening dining or unwinding with friends.
• Gurney Drive: A favourite spot for an evening stroll by the seaside, well known for fresh seafood options and lively atmosphere.
• Penang Avatar Secret Garden: This unique attraction comes alive at night with vibrant illuminations, creating a magical setting for all ages.

Things to Do in Penang at Night

• Batu Ferringhi Night Market: Bustling with food stalls, souvenirs, and clothing vendors, this lively market is ideal for a night out.
• The TOP Komtar: Experience stunning nighttime views of George Town from the top of Komtar tower and enjoy attractions such as the Rainbow Skywalk and theme park.
• Penang Street Food Tour: Discover the best of Penang’s street eats at night—from satay to laksa—while soaking up the city’s energy.

Fun and Free Things to Do in Penang

• Padang Kota Lama (Esplanade Field): In the centre of George Town, Padang Kota Lama boasts iconic views with colonial architecture and calm sea backdrops—perfect for capturing memorable snapshots
• Penang Hill: Take the funicular up Penang Hill on the iconic Penang Hill railway and enjoy sweeping vistas of the city and sea. At the summit, you’ll find plenty of picturesque spots ideal for photography.
• The Esplanade: This seaside public park presents opportunities to snap photos of sailing boats and enjoy a relaxing, natural atmosphere—great for nature lovers.
• Batu Ferringhi Beach: Renowned for its powdery white sand and breathtaking sunsets, this is a top spot for beach enthusiasts and sunset seekers alike.

Unique and Unusual Activities

• Kek Lok Si Temple: One of Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temples, Kek Lok Si features stunning architecture and beautiful views—a highlight for history and culture fans.
• Chew Jetty: This traditional waterfront jetty, with its stilt houses, offers a glimpse into Penang's classic community life and unique photo opportunities.
• Penang Botanic Gardens: Embrace the lush greenery and peaceful setting of Penang Botanical Gardens, with various plant species and walking paths suitable for visitors of all ages.
• Armenian Street and Street Art Murals: Armenian Street, located in George Town, is adorned with colourful murals depicting local culture—a must-visit for those wanting vibrant, artistic photos.
• Tropical Spice Garden: For something truly unique, explore the garden’s tropical flora and spice trails with hands-on activities for all ages.
• Pinang Peranakan Mansion: Step inside this ornately restored mansion to experience the legacy and culture of the Peranakan community—a hidden gem for history lovers.

Must-Try Food in Penang (Day & Night)

• Nasi Kandar Line Clear (Day): Savour authentic nasi kandar with a tempting array of side dishes and curries. Its reputation and taste make it a must-try for visitors.
• Mee Sotong Hameed Pata (Day): Famed for its pairing of fresh squid with sweet and spicy gravy, this dish offers a distinctive taste experience.
• Pasembur Gurney (Day): An appetising mix of vegetables, seafood, and rich peanut sauce awaits at Pasembur Gurney—made even better with calming sea views.
• Padang Kota Food Court (Night):A popular nighttime food court by the sea, offering an array of local delights like satay, roti john, and nasi lemak in a relaxed setting.
• Urban Street Dining (Night): Modern street food stalls set in an open-air environment—the perfect place to sample a variety of flavours with family and friends.
• Night Markets: Night markets in hotspots such as Batu Ferringhi and Ayer Itam serve up street snacks, local kuih, and souvenirs, creating an exciting evening food experience.

Experience Penang Your Way

From the lofty heights of Penang Hill to the vibrant evenings along Gurney Drive, your time here is sure to be packed with unforgettable experiences.

So why not visit Penang and discover for yourself why this island captures the hearts of travelers from around the world?

Make your Penang trip hassle-free with Easybook—the smart choice for convenient transport. Book your bus tickets to Penang online at affordable prices.

Don’t miss the chance to uncover all that Penang Island has to offer—book your journey today and start your adventure!

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