Weekend Gateway Guide: Top Places to Visit in Penang Island

Posted on August 24, 2019May 26, 2025 by Hani by Hani

I’ve visited Penang three times in the past eight months. Honestly, I hadn’t planned on writing about the trip at first, which explains why this post is coming a little later than usual. But then, one of my thoughtful readers reminded me that every journey is worth sharing—no matter how many times I’ve been. So here I am, finally putting my Penang experience into words. I hope this post helps you craft your own itinerary and make the most of your time in this vibrant destination.

Let’s take a look at the places I explored during my visits:

📍Bukit Bendera / Penang Hill

Penang Hill is one of those places you must visit when you’re in Penang. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset. It’s not just about the view either; there are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, including historical sites, nature trails, and even The Habitat, an eco-attraction with a canopy walk.

You’ll need to take the funicular train to reach the summit, which is wheelchair-accessible and suitable for most visitors. Be sure to check the official ticket prices here and book in advance if you’re going during peak hours.

📍Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia—and trust me, it’s just as grand as it sounds. It’s a blend of beautiful architecture, cultural richness, and spiritual atmosphere.

To reach the towering statue of the Goddess of Mercy at the top, you’ll need to buy tickets for the inclined lift. There are four levels to explore, and I highly recommend getting access to all of them to fully appreciate the temple’s beauty. Don’t worry—ticket prices are very affordable. More details are available on their official website.

📍Padang Kota Lama

If you’re a foodie, Padang Kota Lama will be your happy place, especially for trying Pasembur, a Malaysian-Indian salad with peanut sauce. It’s my personal favorite!

The place can get busy depending on the time of day. I found lunchtime to be manageable with plenty of tables available, but dinner time can be overwhelming, with long queues and packed tables. Still, if you’re up for it, the variety of local food stalls makes it totally worth the wait.

📍Wonderfood Museum

Penang is known for its quirky museums, and the Wonderfood Museum is one of the most unique! Think giant replicas of local dishes, fun photo ops, and a peek into Malaysia’s diverse food culture—great for both locals and first-time visitors. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream and a light-hearted stop that’s worth an hour or two of your itinerary.

📍Ghost Museum

Yes, there’s a Ghost Museum—and I couldn’t resist. As a horror fan, I found this place really intriguing. It’s small, but it packs in a creepy-cool experience with ghost stories and figures from various cultural beliefs around the world. You’ll encounter everything from traditional spirits to zombies and vampires. Spooky fun!

📍Tropical Spice Garden

Nature lovers, this one’s for you. The Tropical Spice Garden offers a peaceful escape where you can wander through lush greenery while learning about hundreds of herbs, spices, and plants used in local cuisine and traditional medicine.

You’ll receive a map and an audio guide at the entrance, making it easy to explore at your own pace while soaking in the natural beauty.

📍Batu Ferringhi

Batu Ferringhi is one of the most popular beach destinations in Penang, second only to Georgetown. It’s a great spot to unwind, whether you want to soak up the sun, stroll along the sandy shoreline, or just sit and listen to the waves.

If you’re in the mood for adventure, you’ll find plenty of water sports available—jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides are among the top favorites. In the evening, the area transforms into a lively night market where you can shop for local souvenirs, handmade crafts, and try even more delicious street food.

📍Penang Street Art, Georgetown

No trip to Penang is complete without exploring Georgetown’s iconic street art. The murals are scattered around the city, turning walls and alleyways into open-air galleries. Some are interactive, so yes, you will want to take photos—and yes, sometimes there’s a queue, but I promise it’s worth it.

📍Monkey Beach

I visited Monkey Beach hoping for a relaxing escape by the sea. You can reach it by boat (RM50 per person for a round trip), and there’s an optional hike to the lighthouse for those feeling adventurous.

However, I’ll be honest—this was one of the more disappointing spots. The beach itself was quite littered, which took away from its natural beauty. Unless you’re particularly curious or interested in exploring offbeat spots, this one might not be a must-see.

📍Deens Maju Nasi Kandar

Now, this was an experience. I had never queued that long for food in my life—but I did it to fulfill a good friend’s wish. We waited over an hour, and surprisingly, it was worth every minute. The food was flavorful, rich, and finger-licking good.

That said, I’m not a huge fan of Nasi Kandar in general, so I can’t say it tasted very different from other places. But if you’re into it, you might just love it!

📍Nasi Kandar Line Clear

Another well-known name in the world of Nasi Kandar is Line Clear. It’s been around for decades and is a go-to for locals and tourists alike. Taste-wise? Honestly, I couldn’t tell the difference between this and Deens Maju. Again, I’m not a Nasi Kandar expert—but if you’re curious, give both a try and decide for yourself!

📍Roti Bakar Hutton Lane

Originally, we had our sights set on Roti Canai Transfer Road, but the crowd was insane that morning. So, we searched for an alternative and ended up at Roti Bakar Hutton Lane—and what a great discovery it was!

We had a classic Malaysian breakfast: perfectly toasted bread, creamy half-boiled eggs, and a strong, frothy teh tarik. Everything was simple but incredibly satisfying. Highly recommended if you’re looking for a good breakfast spot in Penang.

📍Out Of Nowhere

Out Of Nowhere is not your typical bar—it’s hidden behind Hold-Up Café, and the entrance is… a bright orange refrigerator. Yup, you read that right. At first, I thought my friend was playing a prank on me, but nope—it’s real! Once inside, you’ll find a stylish, intimate bar with great drinks and a cozy vibe.

A fun little adventure for a night out!

📍Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant And Rooftop Bar

Located at Bayview Hotel, this is Penang’s first—and only—360-degree revolving restaurant. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Georgetown while dining, which makes for a pretty unforgettable experience, especially at sunset or night.

It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special evening out. You can find more info and make reservations via their official website.

Can Never Get Enough of Penang

That wraps up my Penang adventure! Even after three trips, Penang still manages to surprise me. It’s one of those places that feels both familiar and full of new discoveries each time. I know I’ll be back—and if you’ve never been, trust me, you’ll want to come back too. 💛

Until the next journey, happy exploring and safe travels! 💛

X, Hani.