Discover

Penang

A former trading post of the colonial era, the island of Penang has evolved into a fascinating cultural melting pot, fusing influences from across the globe to set it apart from other holiday destinations, not just in Malaysia, but across Southeast Asia.

Located across from mainland Malaysia’s western coastline, Penang is surrounded by the azure blue waters of the Malacca Strait and fringed by brilliant white beaches, an idyllic vision typified by the beautiful shores of Batu Ferringhi to the north of the island.

For those keen to discover more about Penang’s rich history, the capital George Town offers post-colonial treats with its UNESCO World Heritage status, while the Taman Negara National Park homes what is considered to be one of the oldest rainforests in the world – an incredible 130 million years old.

 

What you’ll love most about Penang

  • Explore the vibrant capital city of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its multicultural heritage, historic architecture, and colourful street art, offering a blend of history, culture, and gastronomy
  • Indulge in Penang’s world-renowned street food scene, with hawker stalls and food markets serving a tantalizing array of local specialties like char kway teow, laksa, rojak, and nasi kandar, reflecting the island’s diverse culinary influences
  • Take a ride on the Penang Hill Funicular Railway to the summit of Penang Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the island and mainland, visit historic colonial-era bungalows, and explore the lush botanical gardens and nature trails
  • Visit the majestic Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, with its stunning architecture, colourful pagodas, and intricate carvings, including the towering statue of the Goddess of Mercy
  • Discover the natural beauty of Penang National Park, Malaysia’s smallest national park, with its pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, snorkelling, and wildlife spotting
  • Hunt for Penang’s famous street art murals, scattered throughout George Town’s historic streets and alleyways, created by local and international artists, depicting scenes from Penang’s rich cultural heritage and everyday life

Where to Book

  • Monkey Beach, Penang

  • Feringgi Beach, Penang Malaysia - Malaysia Tourism

  • Penang street art of Marilyn Monroe - Malaysia Tourism

  • Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang, Malaysia

  • Penang Hill monorail - Malaysia Tourism

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 32℃
  • 33℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 31℃
  • 31℃
  • 31℃
  • 31℃
  • 5
  • 4
  • 8
  • 11
  • 12
  • 8
  • 9
  • 11
  • 13
  • 15
  • 13
  • 8

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

Visit website for more info

More info


Riviera Travel is the UK’s leading luxury river cruise & tour company with over 38 years’ experience in crafting worldwide tours, luxury river cruises, rail holidays and UK tours. Their commitment to quality & thoughtfulness has earned them a coveted Which? recommendation.

Visit website for more info

More info


With over 40 years of making travel simple. Travelbag are ATOL protected so you are covered. Book with confidence. Find great prices on tailor made luxury holidays, flights, hotels and tours worldwide! Secure payments. Expert advice. UK based shops. Worldwide destinations.

Visit website for more info

More info

Top Holiday Offers

We’ve hand-picked a range of enticing offers to incredible destinations. If you want value for money on your next trip, start by reviewing our dedicated Top Holiday Offers page.

Top Offers