Just a few hours north of Kuala Lumpur lies the Malaysian island state of Penang which is celebrated for its extensive cultural heritage and wide range of exciting attractions. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient,’ the island of Penang offers a unique travel experience that is ideal for a short trip in tropical bliss.
In this article, we present a fun-filled itinerary that is perfect for spending 3 days in Penang. Prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant streets, gorgeous natural scenery and historical treasures that make Penang a must-visit destination. We also include some tips for visiting that will ensure you have a memorable and pleasurable 3 days in Penang.
To kick off this Penang itinerary, we’re getting you acquainted with the charming heart of the island, George Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site was established in the 1700s by the British and has since become a hub for global trade and cultural exchange. It is characterised by its colourful shop houses and colonial architecture, which makes strolling through the streets a journey of discovery.
You could easily spend a whole day exploring George Town, so we’ve highlighted the best places to visit for your first day in Penang.
First up, we recommend a visit to the clan jetties; unique waterfront communities built on stilts along the coast. The clan jetties were established in the 19th century when Chinese immigrants settled in Penang. Each jetty is associated with a specific Chinese clan or family and is one of the last remaining traditional Chinese water villages in Malaysia.
Chew Jetty is one of the most famous clan jetties in George Town. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant atmosphere, souvenir shops, street food stalls and beautiful views of the sea. Chew Jetty was once used as a loading dock for cargo but now functions as a tourist attraction and house for the descendants of the Chew clan.
Visiting the clan jetties provides a unique cultural experience where you can learn about the traditional way of life of Penang’s Chinese communities and witness the coexistence of tradition and modernity.
As well as the jetties, George Town also features clan houses. Often called clan associations or guild halls, these cultural institutions have played a pivotal role in the lives of Penang’s Chinese community. The buildings serve as gathering places for people with the same surname or ancestry, providing a sense of community and support.
Many clan houses in George Town feature striking architectural designs, reflecting the artistic and cultural influences of the Chinese community. Elaborate carvings, intricate woodwork and distinctive roof designs are common features and a marvel to behold.
Some notable clan houses in George Town include Khoo Kongsi, Cheah Si Hock Haw Kong Kongsi and the Hokkien Kongsi. Khoo Kongsi in particular is famous for its ornate architecture and intricate woodwork, making it a must-visit for travellers interested in learning more about Penang’s history.
After exploring the clan houses, we suggest you make a trip to Little India, a spirited and culturally rich neighbourhood that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Indian heritage and culture in Malaysia. This bustling enclave is one of the most prominent and colourful ethnic districts in George Town and is one of the best things to do for travellers seeking cultural immersion.
The streets of Little India are a visual delight, filled with colourful storefronts, vibrant murals and ornate decorations. The area is known for its striking and eye-catching displays, which create an atmosphere of celebration and festivity.
Little India is home to several Hindu temples and shrines, which are not only places of worship but also architectural wonders. The Sri Mahamariamman Temple, with its intricately sculpted gopuram, is a notable landmark. A visit to the temple showcases the very best of Indian religious iconography and is an absolute must for any Penang trip.
After a full day of exploring the streets, dine at one of George Town’s bustling hawker centres, like Gurney Drive. This is a great way to sample local specialities such as satay and hokkien mee, which will sate your appetite after a long day.
Penang is not just a cultural hub, it’s also a stunning tapestry of natural beauty. From the observation decks of Penang Hill to the hiking trails of Penang National Park, the verdant scenery will take your breath away.
For your second day in Penang, we’ll be guiding you through the best natural features of the island. Starting with Panang Hill and finishing with Batu Ferringhi Beach, your second day will be filled with adventure, stunning views and endless fun.
After a filling breakfast, it’s time to head to Penang Hill where you’ll ascend to cooler elevations and explore the lush, forested trails. It offers visitors a refreshing escape from the heat and bustle of George Town and provides stunning panoramic views of the island and beyond. You can make the trip on your own or join a guided tour of Penang Hill if you want to explore as much as possible.
To reach the summit, you’ll need to take the Penang Hill Funicular Railway, a fun and scenic ride. The Funicular Railway is a historic mode of transportation that has been in operation since 1923. The railway ascends the hill on a steep incline and offers spectacular views of the surrounding greenery as you climb to the top of the hill.
Once you’ve reached the summit you can take in the breathtaking views of the island and the mainland from the viewing platforms and observation decks. On clear days, you can see as far as Langkawi and the Kedah coast, which is a visual delight.
After taking in the vistas, you can enjoy some of the other attractions on Penang Hill. Curtis Crest Treetop Walk and the Penang Hill Canopy Walk offer opportunities to explore the hill’s lush flora and fauna and connect with nature, which will make you feel refreshed for the rest of the day.
After scaling Penang Hill, take a short drive to Penang National Park, the smallest national park in Malaysia. This pristine natural sanctuary is located on the northwest coast of Penang Island. The park’s accessibility makes it a convenient day trip or nature excursion for visitors to Penang.
The park has several well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulty levels that will take you through rainforests and gorgeous beaches. The most popular hike is the trail leading to Monkey Beach, where you can spot the playful Macaques that are native to the island.
It is possible to hire a boat to take you to the beach if you aren’t up for the long trek. Likewise, if you’re looking to relax in nature, head to Pantai Kerachut where you will be able to lounge on the stunning sands and visit the local turtle sanctuary.
Just down the coast from Penang National Park are the immaculate shores of Batu Ferringhi Beach. This beautiful stretch of shoreline is known for its soft, golden sands, clear waters and wide range of recreational activities. It’s a great place to spend the afternoon and soak up the last of the sun after a full day of outdoor exploration.
The calm and relatively shallow waters are perfect for families with children or travellers who simply want to splash around in the cool water after hiking all day. If you’re still itching for adventure, you can try one of the many water sports that are offered at the beach. You can soar above the azure water while paragliding or zip over the waves on a jet ski – there are so many thrilling activities to try!
After some beach fun, stay a while and witness a stunning sunset as it dips below the horizon before enjoying a sumptuous seafood dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Be sure to try local specialities like chilli crab, butter prawns and grilled fish.
For the last day of this Penang itinerary, we’re taking you to some of the top attractions that are absolute must-do’s for your visit. Your third day in Penang will be much more varied and take you to multiple spots across the island, starting with a trip to Kek Lok Si and finishing up at the iconic night markets.
The first stop for your last day is Kek Lok Si Temple, one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples. Also known as the ‘Temple of Supreme Bliss’, Kek Lok Si is perched on a hillside just outside of George Town and offers a serene environment to reflect on your short trip to Penang.
Kek Lok Si is renowned for its stunning architecture, which blends various styles including Chinese, Thai and Burmese influences. It features intricate carvings, colourful mosaics and ornate pagodas, making it a visual wonder for visitors.
One of the main features of the temple is the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas. This towering, seven-tiered pagoda is adorned with numerous Buddha statues, and visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the temple and its surroundings. We also suggest you take time to see the massive bronze statue of the Goddess Guan Yin, which stands at a phenomenal 30 metres tall.
It is worth noting that visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting the temple. It is still a site of active worship, so ensure you cover your arms and legs out of respect for the religious and cultural significance of the site.
After exploring the serene temple and engaging in the local culture, we suggest you head to Entopia, a renowned butterfly sanctuary. This award-winning attraction offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of butterflies and other insects amidst vibrant tropical gardens. You can purchase your tickets for the sanctuary on the day but we suggest booking in advance to make the most of your time.
The main highlight of Entopia is its butterfly paradise, where you can wander through a large enclosed garden filled with thousands of free-flying butterflies. The garden is designed to mimic the natural habitat of these beautiful insects. You can also witness various species of butterflies in their different life stages, from caterpillars to chrysalises to fully grown butterflies.
Entopia places a strong emphasis on education and conservation. The facility offers guided tours and interactive exhibits where visitors can learn about the life cycles, behaviours and ecological importance of butterflies and insects. It’s both a fun day out in Penang and an educational excursion that will open your eyes to the magic of these wonderful creatures.
To finish up your amazing 3 days in Penang, we suggest you wander down to the night market at Batu Ferringhi. This famous market pops up every evening along Jalan Batu Ferringhi, the main road that runs parallel to the beach and sells a wide variety of goods. It’s the perfect place to pick up any last-minute souvenirs and even get your hands on some bootleg designer items.
These open-air markets, known locally as ‘pasar malam’ are a highlight of a short trip to Penang. Alongside the packed stalls, you can sample delicious authentic street food. The lively atmosphere makes it one of the best things to do in Penang, it will certainly be a real treat for your last night on the island.
Now that we’ve covered how to spend 3 days in Penang, we also want to highlight some top tips for your visit to the island. We cover the best time to visit Penang, where to stay and how to get around to make sure you have the best experience on your trip.
The best time to visit Penang is between November and January. During this period the weather is much drier, which is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor exploration. Average temperatures in Penang during this time reach highs of 32°C and the evenings cool down to 24°C.
Penang enjoys warm water temperatures year-round, particularly during the winter period when the average temperature settles around 29°C. This makes the water especially inviting for travellers who want to go swimming or enjoy water sports.
There will be quite a few other tourists in Penang during this time as December is one of the peak months for visiting the island. However, there is a drop in visitors in November and January, so these are the best months to visit Penang if you want to avoid crowds.
There are so many wonderful places to stay in Penang that cater to a variety of travellers. Whether you’re seeking a humble hostel or a luxury hotel resort, you will find that Penang really has it all.
There are plenty of accommodation options in George Town that are suitable for budget travellers. You will find hotels and hostels offering low rates and charming rooms, right in the heart of the bustling city.
Alternatively, travellers who want to stay in Penang in style may want to consider booking into one of the many luxury resorts that line Batu Ferringhi Beach. The Shangri La and Hard Rock Hotel are top choices, with amazing staff and fabulous onsite amenities which will make your stay very lavish.
To get to Penang you will likely need to get a connecting flight from Kuala Lumpur to Penang International Airport which is located on the southern part of the island. You can then get a quick transfer to your hotel or hostel.
To get around Penang you can use the CAT shuttle buses which run very regularly and will take you to all corners of the island. It is wise to avoid taxis where possible because drivers may try to overcharge you, so consider using an alternative like the Grab app.
With its cultural richness, natural wonders and extensive entertainment options, Penang offers a diverse and fulfilling experience for travellers. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover or a foodie, 3 days in Penang ensures a delightful adventure on one of the most enchanting islands in Southeast Asia.
If you’ve enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our other posts about Southeast Asia, like What to Do for 3 Days in Singapore and A Guide to Phuket in December.
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