Top 10 Attractions in George Town Penang Worth Visiting
George Town Penang is the best place to stay unless you want to laze on the beach.
It is both Penang’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to some of the island’s best hawker stalls and street food, and home to some renowned heritage homes, murals, and street art.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recognized as having a “unique architectural and cultural townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia,”
George Town contains one of Southeast Asia’s most extensive collections of pre-war buildings.
Is George Town Penang worth visiting?
George Town in Penang is worth visiting.
The city’s unique cultural and architectural heritage is a fusion of Chinese, Indian, and European influences.
There are many things to see and do in George Town, including visiting historical sites like the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and Pinang Peranakan Museum.
You can explore the street art and murals that adorn the city’s walls and enjoy the vibrant food scene that offers a mix of local, international, and halal cuisine.
George Town has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs catering to diverse tastes.
The city is known for its shopping, with many wet and night markets and malls offering a range of goods from traditional handicrafts and cottage products to modern fashion.
Overall, George Town Penang is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a chance to experience a rich blend of cultures and traditions.
Whether you are interested in history, culture, or food or want to relax and soak up the atmosphere, George Town is worth a visit.
Top 10 Attractions in George Town Penang Worth Visiting
Out of the top 10 list, you must visit the Clan Jetties and walkabout to see the traditional lifestyle of the local Chinese community in George Town, Penang.
1 Clan Jetties
The Clan Jetties is a unique waterfront community of wooden houses built on stilts over the sea, home to several Chinese clans.
The attraction at Weld Quay in George Town, Penang, offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local Chinese community.
The jetties are a collection of wooden houses built on stilts over the sea and are home to several Chinese clans.
Each jetty represents a different clan, and visitors can explore the narrow walkways and alleys to get a feel for the community’s vibrant culture and traditions.
The jetties are an excellent example of the city’s unique architectural heritage.
Visitors can learn about the clans’ history and way of life through the local guides who offer tours of the area.
The Clan Jetties is a complete floating historical village on stilts above the sea at Weld Quay on Penang Island.
From here, head across Weld Quay to Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Acheh.
Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Acheh are two historic streets in George Town, Penang.
Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Acheh are significant cultural and historical landmarks in Penang that offer visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the region’s diverse cultural heritage.
With its beautiful architecture, art, and culture, Lebuh Armenian is a popular tourist destination, while Lebuh Acheh offers a more immersive experience of the traditional Malay way of life.
2 Lebuh Armenian
The street was named after the Armenian community that settled in Penang in the early 19th century.
Lebuh Armenian is famous for its beautiful colonial-era architecture, street art, and cultural attractions.
Visitors can explore landmarks along the street, such as the Cheah Kongsi and the Khoo Kongsi, and the numerous art galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops.
In George Town Penang, the Armenian Apostolic Church of St Gregory the Illuminator was consecrated in 1824 and demolished in 1937.
However, the Armenian presence was short-lived, as most had already left when the church was demolished.
Today, the bustling street is home to some of the city’s best street art, cafes, and souvenir shops and is known for its rich cultural heritage, charming architecture, and vibrant art scene.
Lebuh Armenian is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its well-preserved historical buildings, colorful street art, and delicious local cuisine.
3 Lebuh Acheh
George Town is a city with a rich history.
It has over 12,000 well-preserved structures, including Chinese shophouses, private jetties, and religious buildings like churches, temples, and mosques.
The city also boasts magnificent British colonial administrative buildings and monuments that reflect its past as a trading post.
George Town’s historical landmarks testify to its enduring legacy as a trade, commerce, and culture center.
The historical district of Lebuh Acheh has most of these structures, making it simple to walk around and explore.
The area is famous for its Malay and Muslim heritage.
The road features several landmarks, such as the Acheen Street Mosque, the Malay Houses, and the Malay Heritage Museum.
Visitors can explore the traditional Malay architecture, sample the local cuisine, and experience the area’s cultural richness.
One of the most notable landmarks on the street is the Acheen Street Mosque, which dates back to the early 1800s and is considered one of the oldest mosques in the country.
Other notable landmarks include the Kapitan Keling Mosque, another historic mosque that has been in operation since the late 18th century.
Lebuh Acheh is a popular tourist destination for those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Penang.
If you happen to visit Lebuh Acheh, there are two eateries you will want to check out.
Muthu Banana Leaf Restaurant was the original restaurant with no name and the fried Wantan Mee stall that is open for breakfast only.
4 Chinese Clan House in Penang
Khoo Kongsi and Cheah Kongsi are two prominent clan houses in George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
Both were founded by Chinese immigrants who settled in Penang in the 19th century.
The Khoo Kongsi and Cheah Kongsi are popular tourist attractions in Penang.
The Khoo Kongsi features a traditional Chinese temple, a clan house, and an ancestral hall.
The Cheah Kongsi boasts a similar complex adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
Both kongsi attract visitors who admire their beauty and learn about the history of the Khoo and Cheah clans.
The Chinese Clanhouse represents the grandeur and luxury of the Chinese community in Penang.
The clan houses are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese immigrants who came to Penang in the 19th century.
These old buildings continue to be an essential part of the cultural landscape of Penang today.
Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi is a large Chinese clanhouse with elaborate and highly ornamented architecture in Penang. Photo: Tracey Wong from Pixabay
Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi (c. 1906)
18, Cannon Square, 10450 George Town, Penang
Hours: Daily 9.00 AM – 5.00 PM
5 Dr. Sun Yat Sen Museum
The Dr. Sun Yat Sen Museum in George Town, Penang, is dedicated to the life and legacy of Dr. Sun Yat Sen, the founder of the Republic of China.
The museum is housed in a restored 19th-century shophouse.
It showcases various exhibits and displays that provide insights into Dr. Sun’s life, work, and influence.
Visitors can explore Dr. Sun’s personal and political life, including his role in the Chinese Revolution, his relationship with Penang, and his contributions to modernizing China.
The museum also showcases the historical context of the era and provides a window into the political, social, and cultural landscape of China at the time.
The museum is a must-visit to learn about Dr. Sun Yat Sen, a remarkable Chinese historical and cultural figure.
Address: 120, Lbh Armenian, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opened: 2001
Phone: 016-442 8785
6 Street of Harmony, Penang
The Street of Harmony, located in George Town, Penang, Malaysia, is a unique and culturally significant area.
The street features four religious buildings representing four different faiths, which stand near one another, creating a remarkable representation of religious harmony.
The buildings include the St. George’s Church, Kapitan Keling Mosque, Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple, and the Goddess of Mercy Temple.
Each of these buildings showcases distinct architectural styles and cultural practices, offering a glimpse into Penang’s diverse religious and cultural traditions.
The Street of Harmony is a popular tourist destination in Penang, attracting visitors from around the world who come to experience the city’s religious diversity and cultural richness.
7 Little India
Little India is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood in the heart of George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
The area is known for its rich Indian culture, temples, mouth-watering Indian cuisine, and bustling shopping scene.
The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is one of the most prominent landmarks in Little India.
This temple dates back to the 1800s and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman.
It features intricate carvings, colorful statues, and vibrant murals.
In addition to the temple, Little India is also renowned for its delectable Indian food.
Visitors can enjoy authentic dishes, including biryani, tandoori chicken, and masala dosa.
Street food stalls and restaurants offer an array of choices to satisfy any appetite.
Little India is also a shopper’s paradise, with numerous stores selling various goods, including clothing, jewelry, spices, and textiles.
Visitors can find everything from traditional Indian saris to intricate jewelry and colorful spices.
Overall, Little India in Penang is a must-visit destination for those interested in experiencing the rich Indian culture, enjoying delicious food, and shopping!
Historic Homes In George Town, Penang
Step back in time and indulge in Penang’s rich history at Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and Pinang Peranakan Museum, now stunning boutique hotels and museums.
8 Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
A wealthy Chinese merchant built the 19th-century mansion, which features a unique blend of Chinese and European architectural styles.
After years of neglect, the estate was restored and transformed into a boutique hotel, winning numerous awards for its impressive restoration and design.
Each room is uniquely adorned and intricately furnished to suit its theme, centered around the passions and history of the great Cheong Fatt Tze himself.
9 Pinang Peranakan Museum
A heritage house that was initially the residence of a wealthy Peranakan family.
The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Peranakan community in Penang through its extensive collection of artifacts and displays.
The museum offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Peranakan culture and provides insights into their traditions and customs.
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a museum dedicated to Penang’s Peranakan heritage.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and Pinang Peranakan Museum are significant cultural landmarks in Penang that have been beautifully restored to their former glory.
They offer visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the rich history and heritage of the region.
Through careful restoration and preservation efforts, these historic homes have been transformed into unique and immersive experiences for visitors, showcasing Penang’s cultural diversity and richness.
10 Fort Cornwallis
Fort Cornwallis, the historic landmark where Captain Francis Light, the visionary founder of Penang Island, made his first landing in 1786, is marked by his statue.
The very spot where the history of Penang began!
Initially built with locally sourced Nibung Palm (Oncosperma tigillarium), the fort has undergone several reconstructions, ultimately transforming into the impressive brick structure we see today.
Fort Cornwallis is a popular tourist attraction and a reminder of Penang's colonial past.
Visitors can explore the museum's various exhibits and artifacts, including cannons, a chapel, and a lighthouse.
Captain Francis Light ( c. 1740 – 21 October 1794) was a British explorer and the founder of the British colony of Penang
Shopping in George Town Penang
The main shopping in the city is centered in the street markets of George Town.
Several small shops sell affordable accessories and clothing. Visitors should try shopping at the Little Penang Street Market, Little India, and the Lorong Kulit Flea Market.
The city also features various shopping malls, including the Gurney Plaza, Penang Plaza, Komtar, Prangin Mall, 1st Avenue, and GAMA.
Nearby Airports
The Penang International Airport is the nearest airport to George Town.
The airport is located about 16 Km from the city center.
It is the third busiest airport in Malaysia and is well-connected to the major cities of Malaysia and international destinations like Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan.
The most affordable way of traveling from the airport to the city is by bus. Buses leave every 30 minutes from the airport between 6:35 AM and 11:00 PM.
Taxis from the airport cost about RM 40-50.
Halal Restaurants
For Muslim travelers, George Town offers a variety of halal restaurants.
The best halal restaurants in George Town include the Sunway Hotel, NS Nasi Kandar, etc.
There are several alleys across the city where visitors can find delicious halal street food.
Transfer Road, Hutton Lane, Penang Road, and Lebuh Campbell especially have some good halal food stalls where visitors can find authentic Malay cuisine.
Penang's Nasi Kandar, rooted in Indian Muslim trade, features steamed rice with flavorful curries, sides, and gravies, encompassing vegetables and protein.
Mosques
George Town has several Mosques.
The Kapitan Keling Mosque is among the oldest mosques in the city and is known for its typical architecture.
The other prominent mosques in George Town include Masjid Pakistan, Masjid Jamek HJ Wahab, and Masjid Jamek Sungai.
The Kapitan Keling Mosque is a mosque built in the 19th century by Indian Muslim traders in George Town, Penang
Conclusion
In conclusion, George Town in Penang, Malaysia, has a rich history, diverse culture, and exciting attractions worth visiting.
From the colorful and lively streets of Little India to the stunning views from Penang Hill, this city offers something for every type of traveler.
Other top attractions include the impressive Kek Lok Si Temple, the historic Fort Cornwallis, and the vibrant street art scattered throughout the city.
Whether you're interested in exploring the city's heritage, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, George Town in Penang is a destination that should be noticed.
Photo Source: Facebook Pages of related Penang places.
