Day 1: Exploring George Town’s Heritage and Street Art
Welcome to Penang! Start your adventure in the vibrant capital of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with culture, history, and delicious food. Today, you’ll explore historic sites, enjoy local delicacies, and immerse yourself in stunning street art.
Morning: Discovering the Heart of George Town
1. Breakfast at Toh Soon Cafe
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Toh Soon Cafe. This beloved local spot is famous for its traditional Malaysian coffee and kaya toast.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Address: Lebuh Campbell, George Town
2. Visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)
The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, commonly known as the Blue Mansion, is a beautifully restored heritage building offering guided tours that delve into George Town’s fascinating history.
- Opening Hours: 11 AM, 2 PM, and 3:30 PM for guided tours
- Address: 14 Leith Street, George Town
3. Explore the Street Art at Armenian Street
George Town is renowned for its unique street art. Head over to Armenian Street to see some of the most famous murals, including the iconic “Little Children on a Bicycle.”
- Best Time: Morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Location: Armenian Street, George Town
Afternoon: Savor Penang’s Culinary Delights
4. Lunch at Chowrasta Market
For lunch, head to Chowrasta Market and enjoy a variety of Penang street food, from Char Kway Teow to Hokkien Mee.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 12.30 PM
- Address: Kuala Kangsar, George Town
5. Ride the Funicular Railway to Penang Hill
As the evening approaches, make your way to Penang Hill. The funicular railway provides a scenic ride to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the island.
- Opening Hours: 6:15 AM – 9:15 PM
- Address: Jalan Stesen, Bukit Bendera
7. Dinner at David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terrace
End your first day with a delightful dinner at David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terrace on Penang Hill. Enjoy fine dining with a picturesque view of the sunset.
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Address: Strawberry Hill, Penang Hill
After dinner, ride the funicular back down and head to your hotel to rest up for another day of adventure in Penang!
Day 2: Temples, Nature, and Local Delicacies
Your second day in Penang will be filled with visits to beautiful temples, lush natural attractions, and, of course, more delicious local food. Be ready for an exciting and enriching day!
Morning: Marvel at Penang’s Temples
1. Kek Lok Si Temple
Start your morning with a visit to Kek Lok Si Temple, one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most breathtaking temples. The temple complex is situated on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Address: Air Itam, Penang
2. Penang Botanical Gardens
Next, head over to the Penang Botanical Gardens for a relaxing stroll amidst lush greenery. The gardens are a lovely retreat from the bustling city and are home to a variety of plant species.
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, George Town
Afternoon: Beach Time and Local Cuisine
3. Batu Ferringhi Beach
Continue to Batu Ferringhi Beach for some sun and sand. This popular beach is known for its beautiful shoreline and array of water sports options. Relax by the sea or take part in some beach activities.
- Best Time: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Location: Batu Ferringhi, Penang
4. Lunch at Long Beach Cafe
For lunch, stop by Long Beach Cafe, a food court-style eatery offering a multitude of local dishes. From Hainanese Chicken Rice to Char Koay Teow, there are plenty of options to satisfy your palate.
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 3 PM, 6 PM – Late
- Address: 98-E Jalan Batu Ferringhi, George Town
Evening: Explore George Town’s Night Market
5. Dinner at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre
Head back to George Town and experience the fun and vibrant atmosphere of Gurney Drive Hawker Centre. This iconic food destination offers a diverse range of Penang street food.
- Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – midnight
- Address: Persiaran Gurney, George Town
6. Stroll Through the Night Market
Finish your day with a visit to George Town’s Night Market. Explore the various stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and more delicious treats. It’s the perfect way to end your evening.
- Best Time: 7 PM – 10 PM
- Location: Jalan Penang, George Town
After your night market adventure, return to your accommodation to rest and prepare for the final day of your Penang journey.
Day 3: Delving into Penang’s History and Local Life
On your final day in Penang, dive deeper into the island’s rich history and experience local life. Today’s itinerary will take you to historic sites, bustling markets, and provide a taste of more authentic Penang culture.
Morning: Exploring Historic George Town
1. Breakfast at Joo Hooi Cafe
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Joo Hooi Cafe. Don’t miss out on trying the famous Penang Laksa and various other local breakfast options.
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Address: 475 Jalan Penang, George Town
2. Visit the Clan Jetties
Next, visit the Clan Jetties, one of Penang’s unique attractions. These traditional fishing villages built on stilts are a window into Penang’s old way of life.
- Best Time: Morning
- Location: Weld Quay, George Town
3. Explore Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Take a deeper dive into Peranakan culture by visiting the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. This museum showcases the beautiful architecture and intricate antiques of the Baba-Nyonya community.
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Address: 29 Church Street, George Town
Afternoon: Local Delicacies and Sunset
4. Lunch at Sri Weld Food Court
For a true local experience, have lunch at the Sri Weld Food Court. Sample a variety of Penang’s street foods such as Nasi Lemak, Hainanese Chicken Rice, and more.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Address: Beach Street, George Town
5. Sunset at Fort Cornwallis
As the day winds down, make your way to Fort Cornwallis to catch a beautiful sunset. This historical fort is one of the oldest British structures in Penang.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Address: Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah Street, George Town
6. Dinner at Kebaya Dining Room
End your Penang adventure with an exquisite dinner at the Kebaya Dining Room at the Seven Terraces Hotel. Enjoy a fine dining experience featuring modern Peranakan cuisine.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Address: Seven Terraces Hotel, Stewart Lane, Georgetown
After dinner, you can take a leisurely walk back through the illuminated streets of George Town before heading back to your accommodation to rest. Your Penang journey is complete but the memories will last a lifetime!
