George Town

This is your travel guide for George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

1 : Visit Penang Hill [3 hrs]

Start your day by taking a funicular train ride up Penang Hill, offering panoramic views of George Town and the surrounding area. Explore The Habitat, a biodiversity park, and visit the Owl Museum. Don’t miss the historic David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terraces for English high tea with a view.

2 : Discover Street Art [2 hrs]

Stroll through the streets of George Town to admire the vibrant street art scene. Look for famous murals like “Children on a Bicycle” and “Little Children on a Bicycle.” Don’t forget to snap a photo at Chew Jetty, where you can find colorful street art depicting the local way of life.

3 : Explore Kek Lok Si Temple [2 hrs]

Visit one of the largest and most magnificent temples in Southeast Asia, the Kek Lok Si Temple. Explore the complex, which includes beautiful gardens, prayer halls, and the towering Pagoda of Rama VI. Climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the temple and George Town.

4 : Indulge in Penang Street Food [2 hrs]

Head to Gurney Drive or New Lane Hawker Center to experience the diverse and delicious street food of Penang. Try local favorites like Char Kway Teow, Penang Laksa, and Grilled Stingray. Don’t miss out on the famous Penang Cendol for a sweet treat.

5 : Visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion [1 hr]

Step back in time and explore the iconic indigo-blue mansion known as the Blue Mansion or Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. Take a guided tour of the historic building, filled with intricate architecture, antiques, and rich heritage. Learn about the fascinating history of the mansion and its restoration.

Background Info

Weather

George Town experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high temperatures averaging around 30-32°C throughout the year. The rainy season typically occurs from April to November, with occasional heavy downpours. Humidity levels are high, often exceeding 80%. Air quality can vary, with occasional haze from regional forest fires.

Language

The local language spoken in George Town, Penang, is mainly Malay. English is widely understood and used for tourism purposes. Mandarin and Tamil are also commonly spoken due to the multicultural population of the city.

Cost Of Living

The cost of living in George Town, Malaysia, is relatively affordable compared to many Western cities. Accommodation, dining, and transportation are reasonably priced, making it an attractive destination for travelers on a budget. The overall cost of living index is moderate, allowing visitors to enjoy the city without breaking the bank.

Other

George Town, Penang, is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary scene, and UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The city combines colonial charm with modern influences, offering a unique blend of history, art, and gastronomy. Visitors can explore traditional shophouses, temples, and mosques, as well as trendy cafes, art galleries, and museums.