George Town in Malaysia is the capital city of Penang Island. It is inhabited by over three hundred thousand people. The main feature of Georgetown is a mixture of Indian, Chinese and Malay culture. You can notice this cultural mix nearly in everything, starting from cuisine to sights and mentality of the locals.
Check our full list of the best things to do in George Town, Penang for first time visitors. Make sure to include the most popular tourist attractions in your list of places to visit in 2024.
George Town, Penang
- Location: northeast of Penang, 10 km from mainland Malaysia.
- Average t of the sea: in winter – +29; in summer – +30.
- Average air temperature: in winter: during the day – +30 degrees, at night – 25; in summer: during the day – +32, at night – +27.
- Best season to visit: February to March or summer.
- Rainy season: The most rainfall is from October to December and in April-May.
Where to stay in George Town, Malaysia
Tourists rarely come to this city for more than 2 days. The capital of Penang is suitable for those who do not want to drop out of city life even on vacation. There are a huge number of bars, restaurants, nightclubs and luxury hotels.
- Bayview Hotel Georgetown Penang. Great family hotel overlooking the bay. The rooms are equipped with appliances. Nearby are Chinese restaurants with inexpensive food – Kebaya, Tek Sen Restaurant and Red Garden Food Paradise & Night Market. The main attractions of George town city are within 1 km from the hotel.
- Areca Hotel Penang. Atmospheric boutique hotel. Each room is made in a unique style. In the rooms, guests will find household chemicals and good quality cosmetics. Accommodation for small kids is free, there are children’s play areas.
- The Edison. The hotel is located in a beautiful historic building. There is a swimming pool, parking, safes, dry cleaning, air conditioning. All rooms are equipped with appliances. Nearby restaurants are China House (0.8 km), Kebaya (0.4 km), and Tek Sen Restaurant (0.4 km). Breakfast included.
Malaysian George Town and its Landmarks
The beaches of Georgetown are fully equipped: well-developed infrastructure, water activities, clean sand. But many tourists do not like to swim in the city; for a beach holiday, they prefer other Penang beach resorts. Therefore, many vacationers go on sightseeing in George Town in Penang.
Street art
George Town in Malaysia has become popular thanks to the bright drawings on the walls, which seemed to breathe new life into the old and a bit “tired” buildings. New drawings appear here regularly. Be sure to take the time to walk around the city and see each of them on your own.
Most of them can be found on Armenia street. This way to explore the city is very popular among tourists, but if you want to make beautiful pictures, you’ll have to get up and go for a walk early in the morning. The ideal time to visit is before 9.00 am.
Colonial George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Penang Island played an important role in trade relations between Europe and Asia, and some of the old streets of George Town still perfectly convey the atmosphere of that time.
If you suddenly want to go back in time, then make sure to visit Fort Cornwallis in George town or look into the shops and houses located along Beach street.
Visit the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower (built to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee) and St George’s Church.
Little India
Georgetown is known as the place where some of the most delicious dishes are served in Malaysia. Therefore, be sure to include this colorful culinary district in your list of must-visit places in George town.
On Chulia and Queen streets there are many small shops where you can find absolutely everything. It’s super easy to find this area, you will know that you have come to the right place for the characteristic Indian musical motives.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a perfect combination of small houses that were inherited by members of the same clan, small shops where you can buy souvenirs, tea houses and restaurants.
Initially, the quarter was located along China Street, but then stretched all the way to Little India. You can start your acquaintance with it from the Kuan Yin Teng Temple, also known as Goddess of Mercy temple, the oldest Taoist temple, built in 1728.
Clan Jetties in Penang
Located near the main ferry terminal, the six berths are over a hundred years old. Each of them has its own atmosphere. Somewhere the pier acts as a souvenir shop, and walking along others you can see the life of local residents as it is.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Known as the Paradise Temple, Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. It is a short drive from the historic center of Georgetown and can be reached by taxi or bus. A visit to this temple is one of the best things to do in Georgetown. There you will be surrounded by a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Komtar Tower
Georgetown, like any other city, has an observation deck that offers a breathtaking view of the city. Penang’s tallest tower houses a shopping mall, rides and theme parks. But its main attraction is the glass observation deck, which is located on the 58th floor.
From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view and walk on the glass floor that will tickle your nerves. It is recommended to come here at sunset to take great pictures.
Pinang Peranakan Museum
Museum house was built in the 19th century. Four generations of wealthy Chinese lived here. Inside, everything is permeated with the culture of the Middle Kingdom: you can see rooms with jewelry, Chinese porcelain, national paintings, the whole life of the rich from the East. Works from 9:30 to 5 pm. Entrance fee is 20 ringgit.
The Habitat Penang Hill
Reserve with incredible views. Ideal for those who get tired of the urban jungle of Georgetown and want to go to the real jungle. From the height of the observation deck, the entire island is visible. Works from 9 am to 7 pm.
Penang Botanical Gardens
A botanical garden with an artificial pond, fountains and waterfalls, a well-groomed park, huge water lilies and lotuses, gazebos and benches for relaxing, paths for trekking through the jungle.
This place is one of the most beautiful on the island. Open from 8 am to 5 pm, except Sunday. The entrance is free.
