A few months ago, I picked up The House of Doors by Tan Twan Eng, and by the time I finished, I knew I had to visit Penang during my trip to Malaysia. The book beautifully captures the island’s lush greenery and the cultural tensions of 100 years ago, weaving in intriguing stories of scandals and hidden secrets.
I’ll admit, Penang today looks quite different from the novel’s depiction, but exploring the island with those characters in mind made me feel like I was walking through history. It was surreal to imagine their lives unfolding in the very streets I wandered, almost as if I had stepped into the novel myself.
Today, I’m sharing my 3-day Penang itinerary with you. Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore George Town’s UNESCO heritage sites, while also venturing further afield. This itinerary blends history, street art, cultural immersion, and a dash of nature for the ideal balance.
Make sure to read to the end for insider tips on where to stay and the best ways to get around!
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Is Three Days Enough to Explore Penang?
Absolutely! Whilst I do think you could spend a lot more time in Penang, three days is easily enough to explore its top sites and get a good feel for the place. In three days, you can cover the highlights: exploring George Town’s street art and heritage buildings, enjoying the hawker food scene, and taking in the views from Penang Hill or exploring the national park.
With a bit of planning, you can keep your itinerary interesting without packing too much in. Three days gives you that balance between sightseeing and downtime, so you can experience the island’s best spots and leave with great memories – not burnout!
Day 1: Explore George Town’s Heritage & Street Art
For your first day in Pengng, dive into the island’s main city: George Town. In 2008, it alongside Melaka earned UNESCO World Heritage status for its blend of British colonial architecture, Chinese shophouses and temples.
Goerge town was my favourite city I visited in Malaysia. Not quite as large as Kuala Lumpur yet still lively and vibrant, and with the same old beauty as Melaka, for me it was perfect.
You also most likely know Goerge Town for its street art. The murals often tell stories of local life and are scattered throughout the city. You’ll notice plenty simply just walking around, but it can be quite fun to go hunting for them too.
Read Also: Perfect One Day in Melaka Itinerary
Morning
For breakfast and coffee, head to Mugshot Café and Rainforest Bakery. Although they look like two separate shops, they actually work together—you can grab your coffee from Mugshot and your breakfast pastry or sandwich from Rainforest, then sit wherever you like. My personal favourite was the egg croissant. It might sound unusual, but trust me, it’s delicious!
Once you’re fuelled and ready, it’s time for a walking tour of George Town. The city centre is quite compact, so you can easily cover most of the main sights in just a few hours. I recommend starting early, as it gets pretty hot by the afternoon.
Be sure to visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (the Blue Mansion) for its striking architecture, and the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, which gives a peek into the lavish lifestyle of the Straits Chinese. You should also stop by the Goddess of Mercy Temple, where guests are warmly welcomed to get a glimpse of local Buddhist practices.
And, of course, keep an eye out for the famous street art murals. The most iconic works by Ernest Zacharevic include “Little Children on a Bicycle” and “Children on the Swings.” Another popular mural, “Boy on the Bike,” had mostly faded when I visited in October 2024, but it’s still worth looking out for!
Lunch
For lunch, immerse yourself in George Town’s Chinese culture in the best way possible: through its delicious food! The area is filled with Chinese restaurants, so you have plenty of options to explore. However, I highly recommend Tak Bo Restaurant.
I definitely overindulged here, and it was absolutely worth it. I tried two different types of dumplings—the fried gyozas were my favourite—but the noodles on the menu looked fantastic as well!
Afternoon
After lunch, dive into some of George Town’s quirkier museums. The Wonderfood Museum is a fun and interactive way to learn more about Penang’s iconic dishes, with larger-than-life replicas that will make you ready for your dinner.
Finish your afternoon with some shopping. While Armenian Street may have its share of typical tourist souvenirs, it’s also home to charming shops offering handmade goods and more unique items. If eco-friendly shopping is more your style, head to Hin Bus Depot, a creative space showcasing local artists and sustainable products.
Evening
As the day winds down, treat yourself to dinner at a heritage restaurant. Kebaya Dining Room offers a refined dining experience with beautifully plated dishes inspired by traditional Straits Chinese cuisine. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, there are plenty of options around George Town that still serve up fantastic local flavours.
Read Also: How to Spend Three Days in Kuala Lumpur
Day 2: Penang Hill, Temples, and Nature
On Day 2, we’re heading to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple. The perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and exhilarating adventure, you’ll be heading up high to see George Town from above, with Penang Hill rising 833 metres above sea level and the many steps to the top of Kek Lok Si Temples pagoda.
Morning
Start your day by taking the Penang Hill Funicular Railway. The ride is both scenic and enjoyable, whisking you to the top in about 30 minutes. Prices are approximately RM30 for adults and RM15 for children (subject to change), and the railway typically operates from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, making it easy to plan your visit.
For the adventurous, there are several hiking trails leading to the summit, such as the Jeep Road or the Heritage Trail, which take around 1.5 to 2 hours. These trails offer a great way to experience the lush surroundings up close!
How to Get to Penang Hill
There are two main ways to get to Penang Hill: the 204 bus or a Grab. The bus takes about an hour, but at just RM2 (roughly 35p), it’s a bargain. Just make sure to have the exact fare, as Malaysian buses typically don’t give change.
A Grab is more convenient and much faster, but the price can vary. For example, my ride to the hill cost RM17, but when I tried to book a return trip, it had jumped to RM30! So, I opted for the bus back, and it was actually pretty smooth—I wish I had done that both ways.
Lunch
After your adventure, enjoy a meal at David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terraces, located on Penang Hill. The setting is lovely, and the menu features a mix of local and international dishes, perfect for recharging after your morning of exploration.
Afternoon
For your afternoon, head to Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the biggest and most impressive Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. I ended up spending a good few hours here—there’s just so much to see, with little courtyards and hidden corners scattered throughout the complex.
The temple itself has been built over the years, with an interesting mix of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences. You’ll find all sorts of quirky statues of lion-like creatures, walls covered in colourful tiles, and quiet green spots where you can escape the buzz for a bit.
A must-do is climbing the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas. Finding the entrance can be a bit confusing – you have to go through a random gift shop in the middle of the temple – but don’t hesitate to ask the staff for directions. It’s only RM2 to go up, and trust me, the view from the top is absolutely worth it.
Another highlight is the Kuan Yin Statue, a 36.5-metre bronze figure of the Goddess of Mercy. You can take the inclined lift up to it for RM3, but make sure you time it right. I missed it because, although the lift was supposed to run until 5:30 pm, the ticket office closed a whole half-hour earlier, so double-check before you go!
Read Also: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia
Evening
Evening is the perfect time to experience the bustling food markets that pop up across the George Town. There are plenty of markets worth checking out, such as Chulia Street Night Market, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre, and Air Itam Market. These places are a food lover’s dream, offering everything from char kway teow to laksa, with a variety of local delicacies to satisfy any craving.
I visited New Lane Street Foodstalls with a group of friends I made at my hostel, and we tried everything we could get our hands on. To be honest, I don’t even know the names of half the things we ordered, but that was part of the fun. We just pointed at dishes we thought looked good and hoped for the best – it’s how you discover some real gems (with a few misses too).
Just a heads-up: many of these markets require you to order a drink if you want to use the seating. It can be a bit frustrating if you’re on a budget, but the drinks are usually pretty affordable. Plus, having something to sip on is great in case you end up trying a dish that isn’t quite your taste…
Day 3: Penang National Park and Exploring the Rest of the Island
Morning
Start with a visit to Happy Ken to rent a bike for the day, a lively character who will brighten your morning with his spontaneous singing. The bikes were also in great condition and cost around RM40 for the day. Once you’re all set, head towards Penang National Park. The ride is along the coast and takes around 40 minutes.
Entrance fees for the park are RM50 for foreign adults and RM10 for Malaysians, but as a student, I got a discount with my ID, paying only RM20—definitely worth it!
Upon arrival, you’ll find a well-marked trail leading to Pantai Kerachut, or Turtle Beach, as there’s a turtle conservation centre. The walk takes about 1.5 hours through the jungle, so make sure you have a good pair of shoes on. There’s no food available at the beach, so be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up for the hike back.
If you’re looking to visit Monkey Beach, note that you can no longer walk there directly. The walkway was closed for restoration, but I’ve heard it’s been a few years now and there’s no sign of it being fixed.
Instead, you can arrange for a boat ride from Turtle Beach for RM100. You have to arrange this before you start your hike, and they will arrange to arrive at the beach at around the same time you do. Chill on Monkey Beach for as long as you want, then let the restaurant staff know when you want to be picked up, and they’ll arrange your return trip to the entrance.
Lunch
After your hike, make your way back to the entrance for a cheap and cheerful lunch at one of the local restaurants. We enjoyed a lovely vegetable salad and a pretty tasty pineapple fried rice at Sweet Home 2, perfect refuelling material.
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Afternoon
Hop back on your bike and take a drive around the rest of the island. Taking a loop around the south side of Penang offers stunning views of lush greenery, picturesque views of valleys, and an insight into the more local life on Penang. Overall, it was a lovely way to spend an afternoon, simply exploring.
One quirky stop on your journey is the Snake Temple. It felt very random and is on the side of a very busy main road, but it’s a slightly surreal place to visit. Inspired by the temple’s legends, they have taken the Snake Temple idea to the max; you can hold snacks while observing pythons in cages and other snakes lounging around the temple’s tables. Personally I wasn’t a huge fan of the caged snakes but there was a massive tree in the garden where more snakes were found which was kind of cool and strange all into one.
Evening
For your last evening in Penang, make your way back to George Town for one final meal and night out. Start with dinner at a local hawker spot, where you can dig into dishes like char koay teow or a rich curry that’s full of Penang’s classic flavours.
Then, head to Love Lane, a lively stretch lined with bars and live music. The vibe here is relaxed, though you’ll get a few calls from staff hoping to draw you in with drink deals. Whilst this is a bit annoying, you can usually play them off one another to get a better price on drinks. You’ll find a good mix of locals and travellers, affordable drinks, and everything from acoustic sets to upbeat music, depending on what you’re in the mood for.
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How to Get Around Penang and George Town
Getting around George Town and Penang is easy, with plenty of transport options. I always like to walk as much as possible in a new place – it lets you see more of the little things you’d otherwise never see – and George Town is the perfect city to walk. The compact streets and covered walkways mean you can walk to most of the main sites out of the sun which is ideal.
If you’re looking for a relaxed way to explore George Town’s famous street art, try hopping into a trishaw (or rickshaw). These colourful, pedal-powered buggies are a popular way to tour the city’s UNESCO heritage area without tiring yourself out in the heat. Drivers typically wait at the corner of Armenian Street and Cannon Street. They’re pretty budget-friendly, and the drivers stop at the murals and even take photos for you.
For exploring beyond the city centre, George Town has a bus system that costs only a few ringgit per trip, making it a great option if you’re budget-conscious. If you want to visit Penang Hill or the beaches at Batu Ferringhi, Penang’s Rapid bus system is efficient and inexpensive, though rides may take longer due to traffic.
For convenience, especially in less touristy areas, ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available and affordable. Note that they are more expensive on return routes. For example, a trip to Penang Hill cost me only RM19, but would have cost Rm30+ to come back.
If you’re heading to the National Park, I would highly recommend renting a scooter. I got one from Happy Ken and had a great time exploring the rest of the island. Just be prepared for Penang’s busy roads and sometimes winding, narrow streets.
Where to Stay in Penang
Luxury: Eastern & Oriental Hotel
For those looking to indulge in George Town’s colonial charm, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel offers a taste of heritage luxury. This grand hotel combines vintage elegance with modern comfort. Rooms are spacious with classic interiors, and many feature balconies with stunning sea views.
You’ll have access to a serene pool overlooking the ocean, a perfect spot to relax. The hotel’s colonial-style bars and fine dining restaurants deliver an unforgettable experience, and their high tea service is an iconic treat.
Amenities | 2 swimming pools, Free WiFi, Free parking, Non-smoking rooms, Fitness centre, Spa and wellness centre, 3 restaurants, Tea/coffee maker in all rooms, Bar, Fabulous breakfast
Price | £180+ per night
Mid-Range Hotel: Gurney Bay Hotel
The Gurney Bay Hotel is a great pick for mid-range travellers who want both comfort and value. Situated near the famous Gurney Drive, it’s close to the beach, hawker centres, and shopping. The hotel’s rooms are modern, with comfortable bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, and all the basics needed for a convenient stay.
There’s also a small pool and a casual dining area where breakfast is served daily. The hotel’s location is slightly removed from George Town’s main centre, but it does have easy access to Penang’s bustling beach areas and markets. Plus with the price, a 40-minute walk to the city centre feels perfectly manageable!
Amenities | Outdoor swimming pool, Free WiFi, Free parking, Airport shuttle Non-smoking rooms, Fitness centre, Spa and wellness centre, Restaurant, Bar, Breakfast
Price | £50+
Mid-Range Apartment: Heritage Boutique Home
Heritage Boutique Home offers a unique stay in George Town for those seeking more space and independence. The beautifully restored apartment combines vintage decor with modern touches, creating a comfortable and tranquil base for travellers.
The apartment includes a kitchen, living area, and bedroom, making it ideal for longer stays or those who enjoy self-catering. Located within walking distance of the heritage zone, it’s an easy stroll to explore local cafes, shops, and historical sites. The management team is also attentive, sharing insights into the neighbourhood and tips for exploring Penang.
Amenities | Free WiFi, Private bathroom, Family rooms, Non-smoking rooms, Air conditioning, Bath, Flat-screen TV, Luggage storage
Price | £60+
Budget: Some Place Else Hostel
Some Place Else Hostel is a top choice for budget travellers seeking a social atmosphere and great amenities in George Town. With both mixed and female-only dorms, this hostel offers a cosy base with thoughtful touches like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, privacy curtains on each bed, and personal lockers.
The lounge area creates a friendly, communal vibe, where guests often swap stories and travel tips. Regular social events help travellers connect, making it ideal for solo visitors. Positioned close to George Town’s main attractions, it’s perfect for exploring Penang on foot while enjoying a lively, budget-friendly stay.
Amenities | Free WiFi, Laundry Service, Privacy Curtains, Reading Light, Hair Dryer, Evening Activities, Cafe
Price | £8+
The Wrap: The Ultimate Itinerary for 3 Days in Penang
As one of my favourite cities in Malaysia, I hope this three-day itinerary helps you see why George Town and the rest of Penang are worth your time. I was drawn in by the vibrant atmosphere that felt lively yet laid-back.
With this guide, you’ll discover its heritage, taste its delicious food, and uncover the unique spots that capture the spirit of Penang. From the stunning street art to the diverse culinary scene, every experience adds a layer to your understanding of this fascinating place.
