Malaysia
Penang travel guide
Plan a trip to Penang: what to eat, where to stay, the best day trips and ready-made day-by-day plans.
What to eat in Penang
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Assam LaksaA tangy tamarind broth with rice noodles, shredded fish, pineapple and herbs; eaten for lunch at hawker stalls.
Char Kway TeowWide rice noodles wok‑fried with shrimp, egg, bean sprouts and soy sauce; a night‑time favourite.
Nasi KandarSteamed rice topped with a selection of Indian‑style curries and side dishes; popular at open‑air eateries.
Penang RojakA sweet‑spicy mix of fried tofu, cucumber, pineapple and peanuts tossed in shrimp paste sauce; sold at night markets.
Where to stay in Penang
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culture lovers
Stay in restored shophouses amid murals and colonial architecture; walking distance to museums and food streets.
beach seekers
Beachfront hotels and guesthouses with easy access to the sea and night market; quieter evenings.
mid‑range travelers
Modern apartments near the promenade and shopping malls; close to hawker centre and transit.
budget backpackers
Hostels in renovated shophouses within the historic core; lively atmosphere and cheap eats nearby.
Day trips from Penang
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Penang National Park
15 km
A coastal park with jungle trails, a beach and a chance to see sea turtles.
Gunung Jerai
44 km
A cool mountain with tea plantations and panoramic views, reachable by road.
Taiping
77 km
A historic town with colonial architecture, a lake and a well‑known market.
Kuala Sepetang
72 km
A fishing village known for mangrove tours and fresh seafood stalls.
Turn this into a day-by-day plan with Triptime AI, or start from a ready-made one.
Plan 2 days in Penang
What to pack in October
Ready-made plans for Penang
Questions about Penang
When is the best time to try street food in Penang?
Late morning to early afternoon for lunch stalls, and after 7 pm for night‑market specialties.
Do I need to tip at hawker stalls?
Tipping is not expected; a small extra coin is appreciated if service is friendly.
Is it safe to stay in George Town’s heritage area?
Yes, it is well‑patrolled and busy; just keep an eye on belongings in crowded spots.
What extra charges should I expect on hotel bills?
A 6 % government tax, 10 % service charge (shown as ++), and a RM10 per room per night foreigner tax.
