Penang Airport Guide | What to Expect Upon Arrival & Things to Do Nearby

A major hub for low-cost carriers and connecting, the Penang airport sees thousands of international and domestic passengers each day. Officially called Penang International Airport, the two-level facility is the third busiest airport in Malaysia in terms of passenger traffic and serves as a connecting point for flights to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Taipei and a few other popular destinations in Asia and Southeast Asia. Whether visitors are planning a stay in Penang or just have a long layover at the airport, this guide provides a few tips on how passengers can best use their time at Penang International Airport.
Airport Facilities
Guests will find several restaurants and fast food chains, like McDonald’s, inside the departures concourse on the second floor of Penang International Airport. Besides coffee shops and places to eat, the airport also contains a duty-free shop and a few places to pick up last-minute souvenirs.
Other facilities at Penang International Airport
- Baby care room
- Charging station
- Children’s playground
- Muslim prayer room
- Shower rooms
- Wi-fi
- Lost & found station
- Luggage storage
Transportation
Getting around Penang is easy, especially from the airport. Once guests get the hang of the island’s transportation system, navigating becomes second nature.
- Taxi – airport taxis operate on a coupon system, and rates are figured according to destination. For coupons, passengers can go to the customer service counter on Level 1 of the arrivals concourse.
- Bus – public buses go to and from the airport regularly. Guests can jump on a bus outside in Lane 3 on Level 1 of the arrivals concourse.
Things to Do near Penang Airport
- Penang Aquarium – also known as Fisheries Research Institute (FRI Aquarium Batu Maung), the Penang Aquarium features 25 fish tanks and hundreds of exotic species just waiting to be watched.
- Snake Temple – this 1850 temple was built to honor Chor Soo Kong, a Buddhist monk known for healing the sick and protecting snakes. Guests are treated to exhibits of live pit vipers and unique architecture.
Hotels near Penang Airport
Staying near Penang International Airport is a convenient option for travelers on a short stay in Penang or a long layover in Malaysia. Several hotels in the area offer airport shuttle services and access to popular attractions and shopping malls.
Olive Tree Hotel Penang
Built in 2014, Olive Tree Hotel Penang is a distinct addition to Penang and a smart choice for travelers. Set apart from the excitement of the city, this 4-star hotel provides a quiet stay with access to the city’s biggest attractions.
Raia Hotel Penang
When visiting Penang, you’ll feel right at home at Raia Hotel Penang (formerly TH Hotel Penang), which offers quality accommodation and great service. The 3-star hotel is located less than one mile (1 kilometer) from Penang International Airport and about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from Queensbay Mall.
Eastin Hotel Penang
Guests can have instant access to Queensbay Mall with a stay at Eastin Hotel Penang, just 25 minutes from Penang International Airport. The hotel is designed with business and leisure travelers in mind and features incredible seaside views. The hotels contains 328 rooms, which are all newly furnished and feature amenities necessary for an unforgettable stay in Penang.
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