Things To Do
in George Town
George Town, Malaysia, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and colonial architecture. As the capital of the state of Penang, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases a blend of Eastern and Western influences. The city's streets are adorned with colorful murals and traditional shops, making it a visual delight for visitors.
George Town is also famous for its diverse food scene, drawing food lovers from around the world.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, a historical house with a fascinating story. Follow this with a stroll through the streets of Little India, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds.
Enjoy lunch at the famous Gurney Drive Hawker Centre, where you can sample various local dishes. Afterward, visit the Penang Peranakan Mansion to learn about the unique culture of the Straits Chinese.
End your day with a sunset view from Penang Hill, followed by dinner at a local seafood restaurant in the area.
Begin with a breakfast of Nasi Kandar at a local eatery, experiencing the traditional Malay dish. Then, head to the Penang Street Art for a photo opportunity with the iconic murals.
Join a food tour that takes you through the best street food spots in George Town, tasting Char Kway Teow and Penang Laksa. Visit the Khoo Kongsi clan house, a stunning example of Chinese architecture.
Explore the vibrant nightlife of George Town, starting with a drink at a rooftop bar followed by dinner at a popular local restaurant.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $2 - $5 |
| 🍜Street food snack | $1 - $3 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15 - $30 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1 - $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Diverse and affordable food options
- Beautiful blend of architecture and street art
- High humidity, especially during the wet season
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Limited public transport options
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Selamat datang" - Welcome
- "Tolong" - Please
- "Di mana?" - Where?
Places to Visit in George Town
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its vibrant murals, this street is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.
An iconic historical site offering picturesque views of the coastline and colonial architecture.
The 'Blue Mansion' is a beautifully restored heritage building perfect for architectural photography.
Food in George Town
George Town Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, bloody cockles, and bean sprouts.
Must-Try!
Spicy and tangy fish-based noodle soup, served with mackerel and herbs.
Rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes, a staple of the local cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A famous food market known for its variety of local dishes served in an open-air setting.
A bustling street filled with vendors selling street food at night, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Showing respect to elders is important; greet them first and use polite language.
When visiting religious sites, modest attire is required; cover shoulders and knees.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and some shops.
Safety
Tipping in George Town
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for street food and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Prepare for heavy rainfall and humidity; it's a good time for indoor activities and tasting local cuisine.
George Town at Night
Hiking in George Town
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, showcasing the park's rich biodiversity.
A moderately challenging hike that offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is popular among locals.
Airports
How to reach George Town by plane.
Located about 16 km from George Town, it serves as the main gateway for travelers to Penang and offers both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Penang, they influence the local culture, cuisine, and festivals.
The indigenous group of Malaysia, contributing to the country's rich cultural tapestry and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in George Town, with various local clubs and ongoing leagues.
Badminton is widely played across all age groups, with many community courts available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting George Town.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many hawker stalls offer vegetarian dishes, and there are dedicated vegetarian restaurants around the city.
Most local eateries and street food vendors serve halal food, catering to Muslim dietary requirements.