Penang Holidays

Penang’s where tropical island life meets street food heaven and a splash of colonial charm. It’s spicy, steamy, and bursting with colour - basically, a sensory overload in the best way.

Highlights

• Some of the best street food in the world – char koay teow, laksa, satay… hungry yet?

• George Town’s vibrant street art – every alley’s an Instagram goldmine

• Temples, towers and tuk-tuks – culture and chaos rolled into one

• Jungle hikes and beachy days – tropical island vibes without the price tag

Getting around

Getting around Penang is easy and kind of fun. George Town is super walkable, with heritage buildings, art trails, and food stalls on every corner. Buses are cheap and reliable, or you can hop on a trishaw for old-school charm. Grab (the Southeast Asian version of Uber) is a lifesaver for longer trips, and if you're heading to the beach at Batu Ferringhi or the national park, taxis or hire cars are your best bet. Just be ready for a bit of traffic — this island is popular for a reason.

Things to do for families in Penang

Penang’s got the goods for little explorers and their grown-ups. Start with Entopia, an open-air butterfly farm that’s more Jurassic Park (minus the dinos) than you’d expect. For something educational-but-fun, Tech Dome and The Top Komtar have science exhibits, indoor theme parks and a glass skywalk that’s a hit with brave kids. Head to Penang National Park for a jungle hike to Monkey Beach, or ride the funicular up Penang Hill for views and cool breezes. And when energy’s running low? Hit ESCAPE Park – zip lines, waterslides and obstacle courses for every age and fear level.

Things to do for couples in Penang

Penang’s mix of culture, coastlines and curry makes it ideal for couples who want more than just beach naps (although there’s plenty of that too). Start your day with kaya toast and local coffee in George Town, then explore the temples — Kek Lok Si is a stunner, especially at sunset. Wander the street art trails, hop between cute cafés and cool off at a boutique beach bar in Batu Ferringhi. Want something different? Take a cooking class together, book a couples’ spa with ocean views, or just spend the evening eating your way through a night market. Romance = sorted.

Things to do for groups in Penang

Whether you’re on a foodie trip, mates’ getaway or chilled hen-do, Penang’s a winner. Rent a house or apartment in George Town as your base, then build your days around food, street art, and beach time. Kick things off with a hawker centre crawl — it’s like a food court, but chaotic and delicious. Spend a day temple-hopping, then head to Penang National Park for a group hike followed by a private boat back (flex alert). For nightlife, check out Love Lane – budget beers, rooftop spots, and plenty of local character. Or take a sunset cruise – music, snacks, and sea views included.

Things to do for foodies in Penang

Penang is foodie paradise - full stop. Street food isn’t just a thing here, it’s the thing. Pull up a plastic chair at a hawker stall and try char koay teow, nasi kandar, Penang laksa, or Hokkien mee. Want it spicy? They’ve got you. Want it sweet? Try ais kacang, a rainbow mountain of shaved ice, jelly and condensed milk. The best part? It's all ridiculously cheap. You’ll also find trendy cafés and artisan bakeries tucked inside heritage buildings, and fine dining spots for when you fancy something extra. But honestly, some of the best meals you’ll have are cooked in a wok on a side street, served on a paper plate. Magic.