George Town: A Colorful 3-Day Adventure
Discover the colorful heritage and culinary delights of George Town, Malaysia.
14 October 2023
George Town, located in Penang, Malaysia, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers a captivating experience for tourists. Known for its UNESCO-listed historic center, the city boasts a fusion of colonial architecture, colorful street art, and stunning temples. Visitors can indulge in mouthwatering street food, explore the diverse heritage, and immerse themselves in the bustling markets, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the spacious and funky boutique hotel, Hotel Penaga, nestled in the heart of George Town's UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wander along the bustling streets, marveling at the kaleidoscope of vibrant street art that brings life to the walls of Georgetown.
- Visit the iconic Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, a mesmerizing indigo treasure with captivating architecture and a rich history.
- Dive into the intoxicating blend of cultures at the Street of Harmony, where Chinese joss houses, Indian temples, and Muslim mosques coexist harmoniously.
- Relish in the heavenly flavors of local cuisine at Tek Sen Restaurant, indulging in mouthwatering dishes like Hokkien Mee and Claypot Fish Head Curry.
- Start the day with a visit to Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, known for its towering pagoda and panoramic views.
- Trek up to Penang Hill, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a refreshing cup of tea at the old-fashioned David Brown's Restaurant & Tea Terrace.
- Immerse yourself in the intricate art of batik-making at the Malaysian Batik House, and create your own masterpiece to take home as a treasured souvenir.
- Delight your senses at Little India, savoring the pungent aromas of spices and sampling delectable Indian sweets, while browsing through vibrant sarees and trinkets.
- Get lost in the bustling hustle and bustle of the Chowrasta Market, where you can pick up unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and local snacks.
- Experience a slice of the past at the captivating Penang Peranakan Mansion, filled with opulent antiques and telling the story of the Straits Chinese community.
- Take a leisurely cycle through the quaint streets of George Town, renting a colorful vintage bike from Rent-a-Bike Georgetown and exploring the hidden gems.
- Savor the flavors of Penang's most beloved dish, Char Kway Teow, at the legendary Lorong Selamat Char Kway Teow stall.
- Pay a visit to the Pinang Peranakan Museum, unraveling the intricacies of Baba-Nyonya culture through beautifully preserved artifacts and vivid displays.
- End your day with a breathtaking sunset stroll along the lively stretch of Gurney Drive, where you can indulge in mouthwatering hawker fare while marveling at the glittering sea.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to George Town, Malaysia by plane is to fly into Penang International Airport, which is located in Bayan Lepas, Penang. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to George Town, which is approximately 16 kilometers away.
Car
To get to George Town, Malaysia by car, you can either drive from other parts of Malaysia or take a car ferry from mainland Malaysia. If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, you can take the North-South Expressway (E1) and continue onto the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (E15) until you reach the Penang Bridge. After crossing the bridge, follow the signs to George Town. If you are coming from mainland Malaysia, you can drive to Butterworth and take the car ferry from Butterworth Jetty to the Penang Island Jetty. From there, it's a short drive to George Town.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct train connection to George Town, Malaysia. However, you can take a train to Butterworth Railway Station, which is the nearest major train station to George Town. From Butterworth, you can then take a ferry or a taxi across the Penang Strait to reach George Town.
Boat
George Town, Malaysia is located on Penang Island, so arriving by boat is not a common option. However, if you are coming from Langkawi Island, you can take a ferry operated by Langkawi Ferry Services. The ferry will bring you directly to the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in George Town.
Bus
One of the most convenient ways to get to George Town, Malaysia by bus is to take a direct bus from Kuala Lumpur. There are several reputable bus companies that operate this route, with the journey taking approximately 4-5 hours depending on traffic conditions. The bus will drop you off at the Penang Sentral bus terminal, from where you can easily catch a local bus or taxi to George Town.
