10 Essential Things to Do in Penang, Malaysia in 2025
These are the essential things to do in Penang, Malaysia we think you shouldn’t miss—the MUST-DO places and attractions for first-time visitors.
Malaysia
Traveling to Malaysia?
Here you’ll find all our Malaysia travel tips, destination guides, family travel tips and more.
Destinations include Kuala Lumpur, Sabah (Borneo), UNESCO sites, wildlife, national parks, things to do, places to visit in Borneo and more.
Kinabatangan River (Borneo): How to Visit + What to Expect
A first-hand guide to visiting the Kinabatangan River basin in Borneo—including our top tour picks and our honest opinion about the place.
KL Bird Park Review: Should You Visit Asia’s Largest Aviary?
Visiting Kuala Lumpur? Don’t miss KL Bird Park! Read our trip report on exploring this amazing aviary with helpful tips for visiting.
Clan Jetties of Penang: What to Know Before Visiting
Visiting the Clan Jetties of Penang has become a top island attraction in recent years—and a somewhat controversial one at that. Lori and I got conflicting messages from online reviews and locals in George Town as to whether these communities even wanted visitors or not. After visiting, it’s clear to us that the clan jetties … Read more
Batu Caves: An Easy & Worthwhile Day Trip from KL
First-hand guide to Batu Caves and its colorful 272 steps near Kuala Lumpur. How to get there, what to expect, and why we think it’s worth the effort.
10 Reasons to Visit Batu Ferringhi Beach in Penang
Planning a Malaysia island escape? Here’s why you’ll love Batu Ferringhi beach on Penang Island (plus why you might want to pass).
Penang Hill: Quick Guide to George Town’s Great Escape
A first-hand guide to visiting Penang Hill, George Town, for stunning island views, historic and natural attractions, and a respite from lowland heat.
Penang Street Art: Experience George Town’s Colorful Side
A visual guide to experiencing Penang Street Art, a top attraction in George Town. Plus our top recommendations for where to eat and drink.
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm: A First-Hand Guide
Guide to Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm, one of the top-rated attractions on Penang. Our impressions and top tips.
Tropical Spice Garden & Tanjung Bungah on Penang Island
How to easily visit the Tropical Spice Garden and Tanjung Bungah in Penang. What you need to know and what to expect from your day trip.
Tip of Borneo: Guide to Visiting Kudat’s Beach Paradise
A detailed first-hand guide to visiting the Tip of Borneo in Kudat, Sabah with all you need to know for experiencing this unique place.
Pandan Pandan Island Day Trip (Kota Belud, Malaysia)
A 3km paddle from Bigfin gets us to the beautiful little uninhabited island of Pandan Pandan. Uninhabited, yes—but far from deserted, as we quickly discover.
Visiting George Town, Penang: A First-Hand Guide
Georgetown Penang is packed with some of Malaysia’s best eats and attractions! Here’s what to expect plus helpful tips for your visit.
Kudat Secret Beach (Borneo) Day Trip
Kicking things into high gear, as the search for the perfect beach continues. Today’s contender, a little-known beach in the extreme north of Borneo.