A fascinating cultural melting pot, bustling George Town is Penang’s charming hub — and the focus for most travellers visit the island. This magical port community has been UNESCO-listed since 2008, and now brims with restored shophouses, temples and fizzing street food stands. Beyond George Town, you’ll find laid-back villages dotted amidst the paddy fields, and a beautiful coastline for lazy beach days of active water sports adventures. Accommodation options are appealingly wide-ranging; the best places to stay in Penang include everything from intimate heritage B&Bs to beautiful contemporary hotels for couples, families and friends.
George Town has a brilliant culinary reputation, and it’s widely regarded as the foodie capital of Malaysia. Take a guided street food tour to sample local delicacies, hone your skills with trip to the wet market followed by an expert-led cooking class, or savour traditional Nyonya and Peranakan cuisine in atmospheric restaurants. Much of George Town’s appeal lies in its cultural fusion of Straits Chinese, Malay, Indian and British influences, seen not only in its mouth-watering cuisine, but in the community’s well-preserved architecture. Visit the vast Kek Lok Si-Temple complex, tour the blue-painted Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, or admire the Pinang Peranakan Museum and the Clan Jetties.
Clamber through the Botanical Gardens to the top of Penang Hill for arresting views, unwind on the beaches of Batu Ferringhi, or try water sports, golf and cycling at spots across the island. Thereafter, return to one of the best places to stay in Penang for refreshing pool dips and craft cocktails.