38 Amazing Things to do in Penang in 2026

What are THE BEST things to do in Penang in 2026? In this article we will share 38 amazing things to do in Penang. We have included prices and travel info to help you plan your trip. 

Penang has it all. Amazing food, beautiful natural resources, beaches, temples and cultural diversity. There are also loads of great activities for any mood. Whether you’re up for an adventure, need to relax or just want to enjoy something tasty – Penang really does have something for everyone. 

Lots of things have changed in Georgetown making it very hard to find up to date, accurate, fresh travel information. In this article we will give you the best up-to-date information on things to do in Penang. 

ALSO – don’t miss our guide on the BEST areas to stay in Penang

Map of The Best Things to do in Penang

1 Push your limits at the ESCAPE adventure park

ESCAPE adventure park is one of the best things to do in Penang. There are two main parts to the ESCAPE park. The adventure park has high rope courses, ziplines, trampolines, climbing walls, swings and much much more. ESCAPE boasts the world’s longest zip coaster which is just over 1km in length. They even have a trapeze which they allow you to use and practise and you can even have a go at competing in a show if you progress well.

ESCAPE also has a large and impressive waterpark. In the waterpark they have a record-breaking tube slide. It is the longest tube water slide in the world incredible 1.1 km in length. This slide is not fast, it normally takes 5 – 10 minutes to ride the full length of the slide allowing you to enjoy the jungle canopy and beautiful view. They also have lots of other slides including whole water play sections devoted to kids. They have high jump boards, vertical drop slides, an inflatable obstacle course and a 4m deep diving pool. It is possible to stay at the campsite overnight as well. They call this Base Camp and offer tent rental and a barbecue meal in the evening.

How do you get to Entopia Penang?  The 101 bus runs all the way from Georgetown, past Gurney, Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi to ESCAPE in Teluk Bahang. 

How much does Entopia Penang cost? Children 4 -12 years old, RM 80 – 100 (roughly £16 – £20 or $20 – $25) and Adults RM 120 – 150 (roughly £22 – £30 or $26 – $38)

2 Reconnect with nature at Entopia 

Entopia is a large indoor butterfly farm and insect sanctuary. They have lots of small paths winding through jungle foliage with many insects and butterflies freely fluttering around the large and impressive indoor conservatory. Entopia has trees, pools and indoor waterfalls. They also have a selction of reptiles imcluding snakes and lizards. At Entopia there is an indoor learning centre called Cocoon. Entopia is an awesome family-friendly activity in Penang. You could probably spend a full morning or even a full day at Entopia Penang, especially if your kids love interacting with and connecting with nature.  

How do you get to Entopia Penang? Entopia is right next to ESCAPE. You can reach Entopia by take the 101 bus from Georgetown and getting off at the ESCAPE stop in Teluk Bahang. 

How much does Entopia Penang cost? Entrance tickets to Entopia Penang cost RM69 (around £14 or $18) for adults (Adult tickets are for 13 – 59 year olds). Entrance tickets for children and senior citizens cost RM49 (around £10 or $13). Children’s tickets are required for 4-10 year olds. Senior citizens are 60 years and over.

3 Explore the Habitat Penang Hill

Another highlight of Penang is the Beautiful Habitat Biosphere Reserve located at the peak of Penang Hill. Penang Hill has a unique and rich biodiversity. Habitat is an area of beautiful ancient rainforest with pathways, viewing decks and canopy walkways. Don’t miss the epic Langur Canopy Walkway. This impressive structure was designed to have a minimal impact on this unique ecosystem.

The most iconic walkway is called the Curtis Crest Walkway. This is a 360 degree viewing path right at the peak of Penang Hill. This impressive structure affords breathtaking views over Penang island and the jungle hills. The Habitat Penang also offer a range of other experiences to help you connect with nature. You can do forest bathing, guided tours and a sunset walk at Habitat Penang. The Habitat Penang is one of the BEST things to do in Penang – we highly recommend the Habitat even if you only have a few days in Penang.

How do you get to the Habitat Penang Hill? You can either trek up Penang hill from Air Itam or the Botanical Gardens. You can take the Penang Hill railway from Air Itam. Alternatively you can take a jeep up Penang Hill from the Botanical Gardens (but this is quite expensive). Don’t miss our FULL guide on how to get up Penang hill.

How much does it cost to visit the Habitat on Penang Hill? Entrance to the Habitat Penang Hill costs RM60 for an adult ticket (roughly £12 or $15) and RM40 for a child’s ticket (roughly £8 or $10). Children are considered 4 – 12 years old. Infants 0-3 years old are FREE of charge. Family Package: RM160 (2 adults and 2 children).

4 Visit the Penang Turtle Sanctuary 

The Penang Turtle Sanctuary is located on Turtle Beach in the Penang National park on the northwest tip of Penang Island. This lovely little sanctuary supports the turtle population by protecting turtle eggs and allowing hatchlings time to grow in a protected pond before releasing them into the wild. It is possible to see turtles throughout the year, although there tend to be peak times that vary from year to year.

If you visit you are very likely to see the cages that protect eggs burried in the sand. There is also a chance you might see baby turtles swimming in the pond. The staff at the Penang turtle sanctuary are very friendly and helpful and can tell you lots of amazing facts about these remarkable creatures. We recommend allowing 5 – 6 hours to visit the Penang Turtle Sanctuary if you plan to trek. If you are taking a boat allow appoximately 3 hours for the round trip. 

How do you get to the Turtle Sanctuary? You can either take a boat from the entrance of the Penang National Park (this can be arranged on arrival at the National Park). Boats cost RM100 (around £20 or $25) for a one way trip to Turtle Beach and RM200 (around £40 or $50) for a return trip. Alternatively trek for around 60 – 90 minutes through the national park to Turtle Beach. This is a very beautiful trek. 

How much does it cost to visit the Turtle Sanctuary? The Penang National Park has entry fees: RM50 for non-Malaysians and RM10 for Malaysians. Children, students are entitled to reduced rates. It is FREE for infants under 5 and senior citizens 60 and over. The Penang Turtle Sanctuary itself is FREE to visit.

5 Stay at the Lost Paradise Resort 

The Lost Paradise is a hidden gem in Penang. This lovely little resort is nestled in a secluded and tranquil section of coastline just outside Tanjung Bungah. The Lost Paradise Resort has an eclectic Moroccan and Balinese theme with unique art, landscaping and architecture. There are 3 outdoor swimming pools here and several viewing decks. Lost Paradise offer a range of rooms and suites – everything from super simple budget rooms all the way to spacious regal family suites. Many of the more expensive rooms and suites have balconies with great sea views and some of the suites include a bathtub –  this is quite a rare feature of hotels in Penang. The Lost Paradise is conviently located between Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi. This is a great location for activities in Penang and also immersing yourself in local Penang life. 

How do you get to the Lost Paradise Resort? You can either take a Grab taxi or take the 101 and get off after the floating mosque. Ask the bus driver to stop at Lost Paradise. 

How much does it cost to stay at the Lost Paradise Resort? Rooms range in price from £30 – £130

6 Take a trip to Monkey beach in the National Park

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Penang check out Monkey Beach. The Penang national park is well known for its amazing biodiversity and stunning beauty. We absolutely love the beaches in the Penang National Park. Monkey beach is named after the monkeys that can be seen both on the path leading to the beach and also on the beach itself.

Watch out for macaque monkeys and dusky leaf monkeys which can both be seen in the jungles in this area. Monkey beach is a lovely quiet beach. You can also trek up to the Muka Head lighthouse from Monkey Beach. Unfortunately the path to Monkey Beach has fallen into disrepair in recent years and is officially closed. The main way to get to Monkey Beach is to take a boat from the National Park entrance. This is quite expensive, so if you want a cheaper option consider trekking to Turtle Beach.  

How do you get to Monkey Beach Penang? The only way to get to monkey beach at present is to take a boat. A one way boat trip to Monkey Beach costs RM70 (roughly £14 or $18) and a return boat trip RM100 (roughly £20 or $25)

How much does it cost to visit Monkey Beach Penang? The Penang National Park are in the process of initiating entrance fees. It costs RM50 for adults and RM15 for children 3 – 12 years old. 

7 Explore Georgetown by rickshaw 

If you’re looking for iconic things to do in Penang take a rickshaw tour of Georgetown. 

This is an absolute classic activity to do in Penang with kids. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the sites, sounds and smells of Georgetown without getting too exhausted walking around in the heat. Being on a bicycle rickshaw allows you to take in the scenery at a steady pace whilst enjoying the novelty of this unique experience. Before you agree on a price with your prospective cyclist, check what locations they include and find out how long the tour is likely to take. 

Alternatively take a walking tour of Georgetown

Where can you find rickshaws in Georgetown? They can be seen all over the town. One of the main locations to find a rickshaw is just opposite to Yap Kongsi temple near Kapitan mosque. 

How much does it cost to take a rickshaw ride around Georgetown? It costs around RM 30-40 for a 1-hour rickshaw tour of Georgetown.

8 Explore the Botanical Gardens

If you are looking for less touristy things to do in Penang then check out the Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens is a large beautiful park. It is a popular spot for locals to walk and enjoy some fresh air. It is also a good place to start some Penang Hill treks. Even if you take a short walk around the Penang Botanical Gardens you are likely to see a wide variety of animals and insects. There is a small shop at the Penang Botanical Gardens selling a small selection of ice creams and drinks. Entrance to the Penang Botanical Gardens is free. Watch out for dangerous wildlife. The Macaque monkeys can be quite territorial – don’t have food or drinks around them. Also watch out for large monitor lizards and snakes in this area. 

How do you get to the Botanical Gardens? The best way to get to the Botanical Gardens is to take a taxi. Use the Grab app to get a taxi for a good price. 

How much does it cost to visit the Botanical Gardens? The botanical gardens is FREE to visit. 

9 Stay at the Hard Rock Hotel in Batu Ferringhi

Another one of the TOP PICK things to do is to stay at the Hard Rock Hotel. This vibrant and fun hotel is located in Batu Ferringhi right by the beach. The Hard Rock hotel has a fun extensive outdoor area with a swimming pool, water play area, artificial beach, sun loungers and poolside bar. They also have a range of fun themed rooms and suites, including a fantastic family suite. If you don’t stay at the Hard Rock Hotel consider dropping in for some food at the Hard Rock Cafe or book a treatment at the Rock Spa – they offer a range of decadent and innovative health and wellness treatments. 

Don’t miss these other amazing Batu Ferringhi hotels

How do you get to the Hard Rock Hotel? Take the 101 bus to Batu Ferringhi or take a Grab taxi. 

How much does it cost to stay at the Hard Rock Hotel Penang? Rooms range in price from roughly £80 – £150 per night

10 Visit the Tropical Spice Gardens near Batu Ferringhi

If you’re looking for things to do in Penang for kids check out the Tropical Spice Gardens. This lovely place is located by the ocean on the north coast of Penang. The tropical Spice Gardens has beautiful paths, pools and water features. They offer guided tours where they will give you lots of fascinating information about the history, use and biology of various shrubs and spices. Don’t miss the poison garden – a spine tingling chance to see and learn about toxic plants. The Tropical Spice Garden also has a gift shop and a small cafe selling a fresh food and drinks. Watch out for wildlife in the tropical spice garden. Watch out for lizards, insects and monkeys in this area. Consider visiting the Tropical Spice Garden on the same day as a visit to Entopia. 

Learn about other Things to do in Batu Ferringhi

How do you get to The Tropical Spice Gardens? It is possible to get to the tropical Spice Gardens by bus or taxi. Use the Grab taxi app to get a taxi. 

How much does it cost to visit The Tropical Spice Gardens? Prices to visit the Tropical Spice Gardens are as follows: Adult RM25 (£5 or $7), Child RM15 (£3 or $4). You can also get a family ticket for RM60 (£12 ot $16) –  2 adults and 2 children. 

11 Explore Kek Lok Si temple in Air Itam

Kek Lok Si temple is one of the biggest Buddhist temples in Malaysia. This impressive Chinese temple is situated on a hill overlooking Air Itam. Kek Lok Si is a large temple compex with staircases, arches, pagodas, a moon gate and lots of statues and monuments. This is also a great location for panoramic views. Sitting at the top of the Kek Lok Si temple complex you can see the large Guan Yin Statue. There is a small train lift that you can take from the lower part of the temple to the upper area. We recommend visiting the Kek Lok Si temple early in the morning before taking the Penang Hill railway to the summit. Alternatively, visit Penang Hill early in the morning to avoid the queues and then see Kek Lok Si later in the day. 

How do you get to Kek Lok Si Temple? Bus 203 runs from Georgetown to Air Itam. Alternatively take a taxi to Kek Lok Si Temple. 

How much does it cost to visit the Kek Lok Si Temple? Kek Lok Si temple is FREE to visit. 

12 Taste and learn at the tropical fruit farm

A visit to the Tropical Fruit Farm is one of our favourite things to do in Penang. It is pretty remote – located on the jungle road between Teluk Bahang and Balik Pulau. If you have time the Tropical Fruit Farm is well worth a visit. The Tropical Fruit Farm has an impressive range of tropical fruits. The tours are interesting, interactive and engaging. The tour guides will show you a wide range of fruits allowing you to taste samples as you explore this beautiful farm. There are so many strange and unique fruits here. Located on a jungle hill the Tropical Fruit Farm is also a great location for view over the hills and ocean. The Tropical Fruit Farm also has a gift shop, fruit shop, juice bar and cafe. Sample wild honey and fermented enzyme drinks as you enjoy the view and ambiance of this unique destination.  

How do you get to the Tropical Fruit Farm? It is actually pretty tricky to get to the Tropical Fruit Farm in Penang. Being relatively remote it is a long taxi ride. Alternatively consider a rental car. 

How much does it cost to visit the Tropical Fruit Farm? Adults 13 years and older it costs RM50 for the tour, including a fruit plate and juice or RM30 just for the tour. For children it costs  RM40 for the tour, fruit plate and juice or just RM20 for the tour.

13 Ride the Penang Hill railway

One of the most iconic things to do in Penang is to jump on the Penang Hill Railway that starts in Air Itam and leads to the summit of Penang Hill. Taking the Penang Hill railway is an amazing experience on its own. The trainline affords excellent views over Penang. At the top of Penang Hill you can stroll around path enjoying the breathtaking views over Penang Island. You can also visit a range of cafes and buy refreshing snacks, drinks and ice creams.

At the top of Penang Hill there is also an eco centre called the Habitat. This is another one of our TOP PICK things to do in Penang. A visit to the summit of Penang Hill is definitely a full day trip. If you are doing this with kids we recommend being well-prepared. Remember to bring sun protection, plenty of water and snacks. If possible get to the funicular railway as early as possible to avoid the queues. The Air Itam station for the Penang Hill Railway is situated a couple of kilometers from Kek Lok Si temple.

How do you get to the Penang Hill Railway? Bus 203 runs from Georgetown to Air Itam. Alternatively use the Grab app to get a taxi. 

How much does it cost to ride on the Penang Hill Railway? Adult standard ticket (13-59 years old) RM15 one way, RM30 return, Fast lane RM45 one way, Fast lane RM80 return. Children’s standard ticket (4-12 years old) RM8 one way, RM15 return, Fast lane RM20 one way and Fast lane RM40 return 

14 Visit the Bat’s Cave Temple in Air Itam

The Bat Cave Temple is well worth a visit if you get a chance. There is a small cave – you are allowed to enter the cave and see the bats living here. Much of the temple was damaged by a fire – so they are in the process of rebuilding here. The bats still live in the cave and this is an interesting place to see. The Bat Cave Temple is not far from the Penang Hill Railway lower station. 

How do you get to the Bat Cave Temple? You can take a bus to Air Itam and walk up (203 bus) or take a Grab taxi

How much does it cost to visit Bat Cave Temple? It is FREE to visit the Bat Cave temple

15 Visit Taman Rimba – Teluk Bahang Forest Eco Park

If you’re looking for unique and lesser known things to do in Penang consider a visit to the Taman Rimba Eco Forest Park located in Teluk Bahang next to Entopia. This forest reserve has a park, paths, seating areas and a river with natural swimming pools. The jungle location makes creates lovely natural vibes. Taman Rimba is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy swimming – however, it is not commonly visited by tourists or expats. This area has a really nice atmoshere and it is a great thing to do if you have a little more time in Penang. 

How do you get to Taman Rimba? Take the 101 bus to Teluk Bahang and get off at the ESCAPE stop. Walk to Taman Rimba. Alternatively take a Grab taxi to Taman Rimba. 

How much does it cost to visit Taman Rimba? FREE

16 Visit a Durian farm

If you want to see what an excited Malaysian looks like ask them about durian. To Malaysians Penang is almost synonymous with durian. Durian is a very large, very smelly, very heavy and very spikey fruit. Once the thick green husk is open you can eat the creamy bizzare flesh. If you visit Penang in the right season you will see people selling durian all over the place. If this strange fruit interests you, why not visit a Penang durian farm. There are several durian farms located in the hills above Balik Pulau. Alternatively if you hike up the hill above Air Itam (to Ngor Hean temple) you can see durian plantations in the hills. 

How do you get to a Durian farm in Penang? The best way to get to a durian farm in Penang is to drive or use a taxi. 

How much does it cost to visit a durian farm in Penang? It is likely to cost around RM120 to visit a durian farm depending on the location and tour options. 

17 Explore Balik Pulau

If you’re hoping to get away from the normal tourist hubs consider a visit to “the back of the island”. Balik Pulau is a town located on the tranquil west side of Penang. Due to the range of hills in the centre of Penang, there is only one hill road across the middle of the island to Balik Pulau. Otherwise you need to follow the island around the north or south of the island. To cut a long story short, it takes a lot of time and effort to get to Balik Pulau. There are not lots of things to do in Balik Pulau. Rather this is an interesting place to see and experience Penang culture. Balik Pulau also has a reputation for great street food. Watch out for Bau (steamed buns) and Asam Laksa in Balik Pulau. 

How do you get to Balik Pulau? You can either take the 401 bus, use a taxi or drive to Balik Pulau. Be 

18 Trek to a hidden hill temples

If you’re looking for intrepid things to do in Penang why not trek into the hills to find remote hill temples? There are various hill temples around Penang. Kek Lok Si temple is the largest and most popular hill temple but it is not remote. If you’re looking for a real adventure start your trek from Air Itam dam. From here you can trek for an hour or two up into the hills. The trails are generally pretty large and easy to navigate (big enough for cars or bikes to get up). If you have the time and energy trek to Ngor Hean for an amazing view over the west side of the island. If you do trek into the Penang Hills make sure you always stay on the main trails. Consider using a phone with GPS navigation. Also bring plenty of snacks, water and sun protection.  

How do you get to Air Itam Dam? The best way to get to Air Itam dam is to take a taxi or dive up. The Air Itam dam is quite a long way above Air Itam town and the walk would take a long time.

How much does it cost to visit the Penang hill temples? FREE – it doesn’t cost anything to visit the hill temples in Penang. 

19 Enjoy a sunset on Batu beach

This is one of the most classic and relaxing things to do in Penang. The Batu Ferringhi beach is one of the nicest beaches in Penang. It is a relatively clean soft sand beach. Along the beachfront there are several resorts. You can also find bars and restaurants along the beachfront. This is a great place to come and enjoy the intensely colorful and beautiful Penang sunsets. On Batu beach you can also try watersports such as jet skiing and parasailing. 

How do you get to Batu Ferringhi Beach? Either take the 101 bus from Georgetown or use a Grab taxi. 

20 Burger THE FAT burger Penang

This may come as a surprise but amongst the amazing Malaysian food culture you will find an awesome burger sub-culture. And like all food, Malaysians do burgers amazingly. In Malaysia you can often find street-side burger stalls offering affordable tasty burgers (often Ramly burgers). From time to time you will also find small independent cafes and burger bars. One of the best burger places in Penang is THE FAT burger. It is a little out of the way. But the detour may be well worth it. They have an amazing menu with a tempting selection of burgers for very reasonable prices. We love the creative toppings here – especially the melted cheese. It’s just too good! This has to be one of the best foodie things to do in Penang – at least for burger lovers anyway. 

How do you get to THE FAT burger Penang? We recommend taking a Grab Taxi to get here. 

How much do burgers cost at THE FAT burger Penang?  Most food ranges from RM10 – RM20 at THE FAT burger Penang and you wont regret the price.

21 Shopping in Gurney 

If you’re looking for cosmo things to do in Penang check out the Gurney district. There are two large malls in the area – Gurney Paragon and Gurney Plaza. Both shopping malls have a wide range of clothing stalls, fashion shops, restaurants, coffee shops and more. They both have high street fashion brands and more practical shops too. Prices are on the high side for Penang but that is to be expected in a shopping mall. Also be aware that parking in this area is tricky. If you are arriving by car we recommend using the multi storey car park at the mall. 

How do you get to Gurney Plaza? If you are staying in Georgetown, Tanjung Bungah or Batu Ferringhi take the 101 bus. 

22 Try tandoori at Kapitans

This is one of our favorite things to do in Penang. It may not be epic. It may not be adventurous. But it is certainly delicious. Make sure you have at least one meal at Kapitans Tandoori Restaurant (located in Little India on Jalan Chulia). Kapitans has a lovely vibe – especially in the evening. You can order delicious fresh tandoori chicken sets. Everything is made fresh on site and cooked to order. The quality of the food is wonderful here. Also make sure you try some of the drinks. Teh Tarik, Badam Milk and sweet lassi are some of the wonderful drinks you can enjoy at Kapitans. 

How do you get to Kapitans? If you’re staying in Georgetown it should be a short walk or short taxi ride. From batu Ferringhi take the 101 bus. 

How much does food cost at Kapitans? Most food costs RM10 – RM20 at Kapitans. 

23 Visit Little India 

Little India is a small neighborhood in Georgetown located between Jalan Chulia and Fort Cornwallis. Little India is characterized by small narrow streets, old heritage buildings, Indian convenience stores, Indian clothing shops and of course plenty of Indian food. Markets and loud music can often be experienced on these narrow streets. There are also several vibrant colorful Hindu temples in the area and the smell of saffron and incense really brings home the Indian vibes. Little India is also home to several Chinese heritage buildings. Ironically some of the best places to stay in the area are traditional Chinese buildings. 

How do you get to Little India? Little India is very central in Georgetown. From Batu Ferringhi or Tanjung Bungah take the 101 bus. 

24 Check out the Peranakan Mansion 

If you’re visiting Little India why not visit the vibrant Peranakan Mansion? This is a historic heritage building which is open for public tours. The Peranankan subculture is a fusion or Chinese and Malay culture which has its own unique food, dress and artwork. The Peranakan mansion has an impressive regal aesthetic. They have an extensive display of Peranankan ornaments, antiques, statues and artwork. So if you’re looking for cultural things to do in Penang – make sure this is on your list. 

How do you get to the Peranakan Mansion? From Georgetown this should be a short walk or a short taxi ride. 

How much does it cost to visit the Peranakan Mansion? Adult tickets RM20. Children under 6 years old are free. 

25 Explore Blue Mansion 

One of the most prestigious heritage buildings in Penang is the striking Blue Mansion. The Blue Mansion was built by an influential Chinese businessman and politician called Cheong Fatt Tze, who aimed to celebrate and preserve the beautiful Chinese culture and heritage. He started building in 1896. Cheong Fatt Tze used the finest materials and builders to construct the blue mansion. This prestigious landmark became a hub of the community and an iconic attraction of Georgetown. The blue mansion now offers boutique accommodation, fine dining and tours of the property. 

Did you know you can actually stay at the Blue Mansion. Book a stay at the Blue Mansion on Agoda. You can also book a stay at the Blue Mansion on booking.com.

How do you get to the Blue Mansion? This should be a short walk from anywhere in Georgetown or a short taxi ride. 

How much does it cost to visit the Blue Mansion? You can now do daily tours in English at 11am and 2pm. The cost is RM 25 for adults and RM 12.50 for children. 

26 Try fine dining at the E & O buffet 

One of the most decadent things to do in Penang is the Eastern and Oriental evening dinner buffet at the Sarkies restaurant. Everything about the E&O screams style and elegance. This beautiful colonial hotel is grand, regal and welcoming. The dinner buffets at the E&O hotel are amongst the best in the world. Feast of exotic fresh seafood, rich curries and juicy roasts – it’s all here. Whether you want succulent sashimi or mouth watering Italian food. The variety at the Sarkies buffet is genuinely very impressive. You can dine inside or outside. And if the ambiance isn’t already out of this world they sometimes have live acoustic music. As a decadent treat this is one of the more expensive things to do in Penang – but if you have time and money we highly recommend this wonderful experience. 

Did you know you can also stay at the decadent Eastern and Oriental? Reserve a room at the E&O on Agoda. Alternatively reserve a room at the E&O on booking.com.

How do you get to the Eastern and Oriental? The eastern and Oriental is located in Georgetown. If you are based in Georgetown this should be a short walk or short taxi ride. 

How much does it cost to eat at the Eastern and Oriental buffet? For the evening buffet it costs RM168 for adults and RM98 for children.

27 Project Rock Climbing at Gurney

If you’re looking for fun and active things to do in Penang, check out Project Rock. This is an indoor bouldering center located at the Gurney Plaza shopping mall. Bouldering is low rope free climbing with padded mats. Project Rock is a lot of fun. You can practice different routes with varying levels of challenge, including vertical routes and overhangs. They also have some harness routes to practice too. Project Rock is suitable for anyone with or without climbing experience. Bouldering is a physically challenging sport – wear clothing that allows good movement and allows you to stay cool. At project rock you can also rent climbing shoes (RM5). 

How do you get to Gurney Plaza Project Rock? Take the 101 bus from Georgetown, Tanjung Bungah or Batu Ferringhi. Alternatively take a taxi. 

How much does it cost to visit Project Rock? For a day pass prices are as follows: Adults RM42 and children under 18 years old RM33

28 Trek from the moon gate 

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Penang trek into the hills from the moon gate (located on the road that leads to the National Park). From the moon gate you can trek up some steep steps to reach the beautiful rest station 5. This little rest station has exercise equipment and seating areas. From here you can trek along a path that leads to the jeep track. Follow the jeep track up the hill and you will reach the summit of Penang hill. Down the hill leads back to the botanical gardens. We recommend leaving a full morning or afternoon for trekking in this area. Bring plenty of water and clothes suitable for trekking. 

How do you get to the moon gate? The best way to get to the moon gate at the Botanical Gardens is to take a Grab taxi 

How much does it cost to trek at the Moon Gate? Nothing – it is FREE to trek here

29 Go shopping at the Batu Night market

Every evening there is a lovely little night market along the main street of Batu Ferringhi. You can buy clothing, art, ornaments, homeware, bags, gifts and more. The Batu Ferringhi night market has a lovely ambiance. It is not a big market – but it is very nice. This night market is geared towards tourists so the prices are on the high side. There are also plenty of places to eat nearby. 

How do you get to Batu Ferringhi? from Georgetown take the 101 bus or take a grab taxi. 

30 Get dinner at the New Lane Hawkers (closed on Wednesdays)

New Lane is an outdoor Hawker Centre near Komtar in Georgetown. This is an atmospheric, fun, local food experience. In the evening New Lane comes to life with small streetside vendors preparing and selling tempting local dishes. At New Lane Hawker Centre you can find a range of Chinese Malaysian food including noodle soups, chicken rice, seafood, char koay teow, char koay kak and much more. In the right season you can also find people selling durian nearby. We absolutely love the ambiance and good vibes of New Lane. 

Don’t miss these other great hawkers in Penang

How do you get to New lane? If you are staying in the Komtar area of Georgetown this should be a short walk. If you are staying in other locations consider a taxi. Also many buses connect Komtar (and Newlane) with other areas of Penang.

How much does food and drinks cost at New lane? Dishes typically cost RM5 – RM10 at New lane. 

31 Try Penang Road Cendol in Georgetown

Cendol is a must try dish in Malaysia. It is a beautifully refreshing dessert made from shaved ice, pandan noodles, coconut milk and palm sugar. Cendol balances a rich, creamy and sweet taste. As it melts the texture, taste and consistency changes. Cendol is especially refreshing in the Malaysian heat. Penang has a reputation for some of the best Cendol in Malaysia. And Penang Road has a reputation for some of the best Cendol in Penang. 

Find out about other MUST TRY dishes in Penang

How do you get to Penang Road? From Georgetown this should be a short walk or taxi ride.

How much does Cendol cost? Cendol normally costs around RM3 – RM5

32 Explore the Youth Park 

The Penang Youth Park is located near the Botanical Gardens. The Youth Park is a beautiful and large green space. This is a great option if you are in Penang with kids. The Youth Park has a large playground and a small outdoor public swimming pool (FREE of charge). There is also a small cafe selling a range of drinks and food. The youth park is also a great place to see wild animals like monkeys and lizards. 

Don’t miss our full guide to the Penang Youth Park

How do you get to the Youth Park? Take a Grab taxi to get to the entrance of the Youth Park.

33 Visit the morning market in Tanjung Bungah

If you’re looking for local things to do in Penang make sure you visit the morning market in Tanjung Bungah. This lovely local market sells fruit, veggies, eggs, fish and tropical fruits. There is also a food court next to the market. The food court sells a wide variety of local breakfast dishes. You can find noodles, soups, toast, roti and much much more. A visit to the morning market and food court is a really invigorating local experience. 

How do you get to the morning market in Tanjung Bungah? Either take the 101 bus and get off near the market – walk 5 minutes up the road. Or take a Grab taxi to the morning market in Tanjung Bungah.

34 Try a traditional Dim Sum breakfast in Georgetown

One of our favorite things to do in Penang is enjoy a traditional Chinese Dim Sum breakfast. Dim Sum are Chinese steamed snacks. These small bite size snacks are steamed in traditional bamboo baskets and served with soy sauce and spicy sauces. You can normally try pork and shrimp dumplings. They also have various steamed buns called “bau” in Malaysia. Try the salted egg custard buns for a very unique experience. A great place to try Dim Sum in Georgetown is the Tai Tong Dim Sum Restaurant.

How do you get to Tai Tong in Georgetown? In Georgetown you can walk here or take a short taxi ride. 

How much does it cost to try Dim Sum? Many plates range between RM4 – RM6 

35 Relax on Pantai Tropical (tropical beach)

There are plenty of beautiful beaches in Penang. One of our favorite little beaches is nestled into the north coast between Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang. This small and beautiful beach is opposite the Tropical Spice Garden and has become known as Pantai Tropical (or Tropical Beach). This beach is often relatively quiet and is very tranquil. It is also a great location for exploring the wide range of activities in the northwest corner of Penang island. Don’t expect crystal clear waters and snorkeling – the water is not very clear and there is also a risk of jellyfish in the water around Penang. However, this is a very beautiful place to relax and enjoy the fresh air. 

How do you get to Pantai Tropical? The 101 bus runs past this beach. Get off at the Tropical Spice garden stop (between Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang)

36 Try Georgetown Char Koay Teow

Char Koay Teow is one of the MUST TRY dishes in Penang. This is a juicy fried noodle dish with egg, bean sprouts, Chinese sausage and shrimp. Char Koay Teow is fried in Pork fat giving it a deep rich flavor. You can find Char Koay Teow at many hawkers around Penang, especially in Chinese communities. One of the classic traditional places for street side Char Koay Teow in Georgetown is Lorong Selamat.

How much does Char Koay Teow cost? Char Koay Teow normally costs RM6 – RM10 per plate

37 Take a traditional Penang Cooking Class

Penang is well known for its impressive food culture. A great way to learn more about Penang food is to take a traditional cooking class. The Tropical Spice Garden can hook you up with a cooking course. Learn about how traditional tropical spices are grown and prepared. The cooking classes at the Tropical Spice Gardens are interactive and engaging. And best of all, you get to enjoy the dishes that you have prepared. If you are planning to do a cooking class we recommend getting in touch early to arrange your dates and check on class availability and prices. 

38 Explore the Georgetown street art

One of the most iconic and classic things to do in Penang is explore the famous Georgetown street art. Many of the streets around Georgetown are decorated with creative murals celebrating the rich culture and heritage of this city. The most famous street art (children on a bicycle) is located on Jalan Armenian. Many of the streets surrounding this area also have their own creative artwork.

Where next? 

Planning a visit to Langkawi? Don’t miss our guide – Penang vs Langkawi everything you need to know to plan your epic holiday