7 days in George Town, Malaysia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
If you’re itching for a taste of culture, art, history, and mouth-watering street food, then look no further – George Town, Malaysia has got it all! As the capital of Penang island, George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with beautifully preserved heritage buildings, fantastic museums, and a unique blend of Asian cultures. It’s an exciting city that welcomes you with open arms – and endless bowls of laksa!
Things to Consider Before Arriving to George Town
Brilliant Street Food: If your taste buds are adventurous, you’ll love exploring the diverse flavors of George Town’s hawker stalls.
Budget-Friendly Destination: Your wallet will thank you, as Penang is known for being one of the most affordable places for tourists in Malaysia.
Humidity and Heat: Be ready to embrace a tropical climate throughout the year.
Best suited for: Foodies, history buffs, and travellers seeking a multicultural experience in a charming city.
What to Bring with You
1. Lightweight clothing: Prioritize breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in George Town’s warm climate.
2. Comfortable shoes: Be prepared for long walks while exploring the city’s heritage sites.
3. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated in the heat, and be environmentally friendly at the same time.
4. Sunscreen & Hats: Protect your skin from the intense sun.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The ideal time to visit George Town is between November and February, as it offers relatively cooler and drier weather, perfect for exploring the city.
How to Get into the City
1. By Plane: Fly into Penang International Airport (PEN) and then take a taxi or the Rapid Penang bus to reach George Town.
2. By Ferry: The Penang Ferry Service operates between Butterworth and George Town, providing a scenic ride while approaching the city.
3. By Bus: Long-distance buses from Kuala Lumpur and other Malaysian cities arrive at the Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal, from where you can catch a local bus or taxi to George Town.
7 Day City Guide Trip to George Town, Malaysia
Day 1: Get Lost in the Streets
Start your trip by walking around the colorful streets of George Town, where you’ll find street art and murals that represent the city’s culture and history. Don’t miss the famous street art by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic depicting locals going about their daily lives. Take a break and grab a coffee at China House, a trendy establishment with three heritage buildings combined into one.
Day 2: Visit the Temples and Clan Houses
George Town is home to plenty of Chinese temples and clan houses worth visiting, including the Kek Lok Si Temple and the Khoo Kongsi, which displays intricate Chinese architecture. Ride the funicular up to Penang Hill for a panoramic view of the city and explore its quaint colonial bungalows.
Day 3: Discover Penang’s Cuisine
Feast on Penang’s unique food scene, which blends Chinese, Malay and Indian influences. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Roti Canai Transfer Road, a popular Indian eatery with a great variety of flatbreads, curries, and chutneys. For lunch, taste the famous Penang Assam Laksa at Air Itam Laksa, and for dinner try the seafood at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre.
Day Trip: Visit Langkawi
Take a ferry to the popular island of Langkawi, where you can enjoy its stunning beaches, duty-free shopping, and cable car rides up to the Sky Bridge. Walk around the Langkawi Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rock formations and mangrove forests.
Day 4: Explore the Museums and Art Galleries
Learn about the city’s history at the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases the state’s art, culture and heritage. The Made in Penang Interactive Museum is also a fun place to explore Penang’s history in a more interactive way.
Day 5: Visit the Iconic Landmarks
Visit the iconic landmarks of George Town, including the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, also known as the Blue Mansion, and the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, a historic hotel with a ballroom and a tea lounge that serves scones and tea. Take a sunset cruise down the Straits of Malacca and see the city’s skyline in a different light.
Day Trip: Visit Batu Ferringhi
Take a trip to Batu Ferringhi, a beach destination with plenty of water sports and activities, including parasailing, jet skiing and banana boating. Visit the Batu Ferringhi Night Market and enjoy some local snacks and souvenirs.
Day 6: Shop at the Markets and Boutiques
Shop to your heart’s content at George Town’s markets and boutiques. Check out the Pasar Malam Night Market, where you’ll find souvenirs, street food, and clothing. For a more upscale shopping experience, explore Gurney Plaza, one of the city’s largest shopping malls.
Day 7: Relax and Unwind
Spend your final day in George Town relaxing on the beach or at a spa. Visit the Tropical Spice Garden, where you can enjoy a cooking class, or simply walk around its lush gardens and learn about local herbs and spices. End your day by watching a live performance at Penang Performing Arts Centre.
How to Continue your Travel after you have spent 7 days in George Town
Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is just a four-hour drive from George Town, making it a great destination to visit next. Get a panoramic view from the Petronas Twin Towers or visit the Batu Caves, a limestone hill with a series of caves and Hindu temples. Another great option is the island of Phuket in Thailand, where you can relax on its beautiful beaches and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. Fly from Penang to Phuket in just over an hour.
