Destination Highlights with our Penang Island Tour Packages
Penang is not just a destination but an experience. Let’s take a look at what makes it a great holiday destination.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore the historic heart of George Town, a city recognised by UNESCO for its unique architectural and cultural townscape, unparalleled anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.
- A Gastronomic Paradise: Penang is repeatedly hailed as one of the world’s top food destinations. Indulge in a culinary journey, from hawker stalls serving legendary dishes to fine dining restaurants.
- Art and Culture Hub: Discover the island’s thriving art scene, famous for its interactive street art and numerous galleries. Immerse yourself in a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European cultures.
- Stunning Natural Landscapes: From the panoramic views atop Penang Hill to the serene shores of Monkey Beach and the lush trails of Penang National Park, the island’s natural beauty is breathtaking.
- Rich History: Delve into the past at historic forts, opulent clan houses like Khoo Kongsi and magnificent colonial landmarks that tell the story of Penang’s vibrant history.
What Makes Penang Island a Hot Destination?
Penang offers a unique blend that few destinations can match. It’s a compact island that packs a world of experiences. You can spend your morning exploring a 19th-century temple, your afternoon relaxing on a sandy beach and your evening feasting on some of the best street food you’ll ever taste. It caters to every type of traveler, whether you're seeking cultural immersion, culinary adventures, family fun or a romantic getaway.
Travel with Regency Holidays: Your perfect Penang Island Tour Packages
When you have Regency Holidays at your side, you can be sure about a seamless travel experience. We take care of every travel requirement, starting from flight booking to hotel accommodation to transport. While we make your travel hassle free, you are relieved from every stress during the trip and can comfortably focus on making memories.
Package Inclusions
- Comfortable accommodation
- Private/shared airport transfers
- Guided sightseeing tours
- Daily breakfast
- All applicable taxes
Types of Packages Available
- Luxury Packages: Indulge in the finest hotels and exclusive experiences
- Honeymoon Packages: Create romantic memories with special inclusions for couples
- Family Packages: Fun-filled itineraries with activities for all ages
- Cultural Packages: Deep dive into the history and heritage of Penang
- Foodie Tours: A culinary journey dedicated to tasting the best of Penang
Personalised Support & Experiences
Our travel experts are dedicated to crafting a personalised itinerary that matches your interests and budget. From arranging private tours to recommending hidden gems, we provide 24/7 support to ensure your trip is flawless.
How to Reach Penang Island?
- By Air: Penang International Airport (PEN) is well-connected to major cities in Asia and beyond. Major airlines serving Penang Island include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.
- Airports: Penang International Airport (PEN)
Other Transport Options
You can also reach Penang by road via two bridges connecting the island to mainland Malaysia. Regular bus services and a train service (KTM) to Butterworth, followed by a short ferry ride, are also popular options.
Best Time to Visit Penang Island
- Peak Season (November to January): Pleasant weather with less rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing. This is also the festive season with Christmas and New Year celebrations. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- Shoulder Season (February to April, September to October): A great time to visit with a good balance of sunny days and occasional rain. The crowds are thinner and you might find better deals on flights and hotels. Key events include Chinese New Year (dates vary) and the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival.
- Off Season (May to August): This is the monsoon season, but the downpours are usually short and intense, leaving the rest of the day sunny. It’s the best time for budget travelers to take advantage of lower prices and enjoy the island's lush, green landscapes.
Other Information to Know About Penang Island
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
- Languages: Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, but English and Mandarin are widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
- Time Zone: Malaysia Standard Time (GMT+8)
Top Places to Visit in Penang Island
Penang is dotted with attractions that cater to every interest. Here are 10 must-see places that should be on your itinerary:
- George Town: This UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for exploring on foot to see the famous street art and colonial architecture
- Penang Hill: Ride the funicular railway to the top for stunning panoramic views of the island
- Kek Lok Si Temple: One of Southeast Asia's largest Chinese temples, this is a magnificent complex of prayer halls, pagodas and gardens
- Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion: An iconic, award-winning heritage hotel and museum
- Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm: A magical sanctuary for thousands of butterflies and other insects
- Penang National Park: The world’s smallest national park, offering jungle treks, serene beaches and a canopy walk
- Fort Cornwallis: The largest standing fort in Malaysia, built by the British East India Company
- Khoo Kongsi: A magnificently ornate Chinese clan house that showcases spectacular architecture
- ESCAPE Penang: An adventure theme park perfect for families and thrill-seekers
- Batu Ferringhi Beach: The most famous beach in Penang, known for its water sports and vibrant night market
10 Must-Do Activities in Penang Island
- Hunt for street art in George Town and discover iconic murals by Ernest Zacharevic
- Go on a food tour and sample Penang’s famous hawker dishes
- Visit the Tropical Spice Garden for a sensory escape
- Ride a trishaw through George Town’s UNESCO heritage zone
- Explore the Clan Jetties, historic wooden waterfront villages
- Hike to Monkey Beach inside Penang National Park
- Take a cooking class to master Malaysian flavours
- Shop at the Batu Ferringhi Night Market for souvenirs and snacks
- Visit the quirky Upside Down Museum for fun photos
- Stroll along Gurney Drive and enjoy seaside views and street food
Popular Hotels to Stay in Penang Island
- Eastern & Oriental Hotel
- Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang
- The Prestige Hotel Penang
- G Hotel Gurney
- Angsana Teluk Bahang
- JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La
- The Wembley – A St Giles Hotel
- Cititel Penang
- DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang
- Hotel Neo+ Penang
Hotels Near Airport
- Amari SPICE Penang
- AC Hotel by Marriott Penang
- Eastin Hotel Penang
- Lexis Suites Penang
- Olive Tree Hotel
Top Restaurants in Penang Island
Vegetarian
- Lily's Vegetarian Kitchen
- Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant
- IVY Vegetarian Cuisine
- Thali-NR Sweets Cafe
- Plant a Seed - Vegan
Non-Vegetarian
- Tek Sen Restaurant
- Kebaya Dining Room
- China House
- Indigo Restaurant at The Blue Mansion
- Auntie Gaik Lean's Old School Eatery
Best Cuisines to Try in Penang Island
- Char Kway Teow
- Assam Laksa
- Hokkien Mee
- Nasi Lemak
- Roti Canai
- Mee Goreng Mamak
- Penang Rojak
- Cendol
- Satay
- Oh Chien (Oyster Omelette)
Top Things to Buy in Penang Island
- Tau Sar Piah (mung bean pastry)
- Penang White Coffee
- Nutmeg products
- Batik fabric
- Pewterware (Royal Selangor)
- Handicrafts and trishaw souvenirs
- Pickled fruits
- Local sauces and curry pastes
- Nyonya beaded slippers (Kasut Manek)
- Art prints of George Town murals
Top Places for Shopping in Penang Island
- Gurney Plaza
- Gurney Paragon Mall
- Queensbay Mall
- 1st Avenue Mall
- KOMTAR
- Penang Times Square
- Chowrasta Market
- Lorong Kulit Flea Market
- Batu Ferringhi Night Market
- Hutton Lane street shops
Experience Nightlife in Penang Island
Penang’s nightlife is a vibrant mix of trendy rooftop bars, chic speakeasies, lively pubs and beachside cafes. Whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink, there’s a spot for you.
- Mish Mash
- The Press Rooftop Bar
- Three Sixty Skybar
- Antarabangsa
- Manchu Bar
- Good Friends Club
- Backdoor Bodega
- Out of Nowhere
- Gravity (G Hotel Kelawai)
- BoraBora @ Ferringhi
Travel Tips for Your Penang Island Trip
1. Stay Hydrated: As the weather is hot and humid, you should drink plenty of water.
2. Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the tropical sun.
3. Dress Appropriately: Wear light clothing. When visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees.
4. Bargain Respectfully: Haggling is common at markets, but always do it with a smile.
5. Embrace Public Transport: Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for convenient and affordable travel.
6. Cash is King: While cards are accepted in malls, have cash ready for hawker stalls and smaller shops.
7. Be Adventurous with Food: Don't be afraid to try street food as it's a huge part of the Penang experience.
8. Mind Your Belongings: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
9. Learn a Few Local Phrases: A simple "Terima Kasih" (Thank You) goes a long way.
10. Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.