25+ Things to Do in Penang: Must-See Sights, Street Food, Murals & Hidden Gems

The Penang street art scene transformed George Town into one of Asia’s coolest creative hubs. Wander through Armenian Street to find Ernest Zacharevic’s “Kids on Bicycle,” or spot the iron sculptures that tell local tales. Each mural adds humor and humanity to Penang’s colonial architecture. Come early for soft light or after rain for reflections on the wet pavement—it’s a photographer’s paradise.

The narrow lanes of George Town Penang invite slow exploration. You’ll walk past colorful windows, rattan furniture stores, and tiny shrines tucked between homes. Landmarks like Khoo Kongsi and the Pinang Peranakan Mansion show how trade shaped Penang’s identity. Capture the mix of textures—cracked walls, vintage bicycles, and lanterns swaying gently in the sea breeze.

Family photoshoot by Amelia, Localgrapher in Penang

One of Southeast Asia’s most magnificent Buddhist temples, Kek Lok Si overlooks the island from Air Itam Hill. Its seven-story pagoda, koi ponds, and lantern-draped gardens create an atmosphere of peace and devotion. During Chinese New Year, the temple glows with thousands of lights—a dazzling spectacle that every photographer dreams of catching.

Stretching 13.5 kilometers across the Penang Strait, the Penang Bridge is one of Malaysia’s proudest engineering feats. Crossing it at dawn offers soft pastel skies; at dusk, the entire span lights up in golden hues. Whether you’re photographing the bridge itself or the city skyline it connects, it’s a reminder of Penang’s balance between history and progress.

Cheong Fatt Tze’s “Blue Mansion” is one of George Town Penang’s most elegant gems. Its indigo façade, colorful tiles, and antique furnishings tell the story of a 19th-century tycoon. The sunlight filtering through stained glass windows gives interiors a cinematic glow—ideal for editorial-style portraits or romantic travel photos. Stay overnight if you can—the mansion’s twilight ambiance is unforgettable.

Nothing says Penang food like a plate of char kway teow sizzling fresh off the wok. Rice noodles, prawns, bean sprouts, and egg are tossed over an open flame until infused with “wok hei,” the smoky flavor that defines this dish. Capture the fire, the movement, and the smiles of hawkers who’ve mastered their craft after decades of perfecting the recipe.

This spicy-sour noodle soup is a Malaysian icon. Penang assam laksa combines mackerel broth, tamarind, and fresh herbs for a vibrant balance of flavors. The colorful toppings—pineapple, mint, chili, and onions—make it irresistible for food photography. Find it at Air Itam Market, where it’s served steaming hot with views of local life buzzing around you.

At night, the streets come alive. Gurney Drive, Chulia Street, and New Lane transform into glowing food havens filled with the aromas of grilled satay, roti canai, and cendol desserts. Photograph the chaos—the sparks from woks, the laughter of locals, and the colors that light up the night sky. Eating here feels like joining Penang’s heartbeat.

A lush sanctuary tucked near Batu Ferringhi, the Tropical Spice Garden lets you walk among nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom plants. It’s a peaceful place to learn how Penang’s spices shaped its cuisine and trade. Photographers will love the sunlight filtering through the jungle canopy and the bursts of color from tropical flowers.

Photo by Tropical Spice Garden

Once you’ve fallen in love with Penang street food, try making it yourself. Join a local cooking class that begins with a market visit, where you’ll photograph baskets overflowing with herbs and fresh produce. Then, under the guidance of a Penang chef, stir, slice, and season your way through authentic recipes—ending in a feast you made (and captured) yourself.

Ride the historic funicular railway up Penang Hill, 833 meters above sea level. The journey takes you through dense rainforest to sweeping island views that stretch all the way to the Penang Bridge. Photograph the fog rolling through the trees or the evening lights sparkling below—it’s a timeless view that changes with every hour.

Perched atop Penang Hill, The Habitat is a world of treetop bridges and canopy walks surrounded by 130-million-year-old rainforest. Zip lines, skywalks, and quiet trails make it one of the best spots to experience the island’s natural heritage. Come for golden hour—the low light through the leaves makes for magical shots.

Photo by Penang Tickets

Tiny but mighty, Penang National Park is a wonderland of biodiversity. Trek to Monkey Beach for ocean views or hike to Kerachut Beach to see the rare meromictic lake and turtle sanctuary. Bring your camera—between monkeys, monitor lizards, and coastal trails, there’s beauty in every frame.

Photo by onepanang.com

This popular stretch of coastline offers sun, surf, and relaxation. Try parasailing for aerial views or stroll along the sand with your camera ready for sunset. When night falls, the beach turns into a lively bazaar where vendors sell souvenirs under strings of fairy lights.

Discover the countryside charm of Balik Pulau on Penang’s west side. Cycle past rice paddies, visit fruit farms, and taste homemade nutmeg juice while photographing rustic villages. This tranquil area shows a completely different side of Penang—authentic, quiet, and full of color.

Photo by onepanang.com

One of Penang’s oldest waterfront communities, Chew Jetty’s wooden walkways stretch over the sea. Visit at sunrise when fishermen head out to work, or at sunset when lanterns flicker to life. It’s a living reminder of Penang’s maritime roots.

At Tanjung Bungah, the Penang Floating Mosque rises elegantly above the waves. During high tide, it truly appears to float. Its intricate details and seaside views make it one of the island’s most peaceful photo spots.

What was once an abandoned depot is now a thriving creative space filled with murals, pop-up markets, and performances. Hin Bus Depot represents modern Penang street art in motion—a space where art meets community.

Photo by My Penang

Step into Little India, where the air smells of cardamom and jasmine. Bollywood tunes fill the streets, women in bright saris browse for jewelry, and photographers can capture vibrant colors and joyful energy in every direction.

Founded in 1884, the Penang Botanic Gardens combine colonial charm with tropical wilderness. It’s a peaceful spot for picnics, portraits, or macro shots of orchids and butterflies fluttering through the sunlight.

Beyond Chew Jetty, the other clan jetties—Lim, Tan, Yeoh, and Lee—offer a quieter glimpse into daily life on the water. Walk along the wooden planks to capture families chatting on porches or children playing near the sea.

Home to more than 15,000 butterflies, Entopia is a kaleidoscope of color. Capture wings mid-flight, sparkling dew drops, and the serene beauty of nature’s smallest wonders.

Fittingly located in George Town Penang, this museum celebrates photography through time—from vintage Leicas to early film cameras. It’s a nostalgic stop for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling through pictures.

Photo by traveloka.com

Built by the British in the 1930s, the Penang War Museum is both eerie and fascinating. Explore underground tunnels and bunkers while learning about the island’s wartime past. The play of light and shadow makes for dramatic photos.

Photo by My Penang

Penang comes alive after dark. Enjoy rooftop cocktails overlooking Penang Bridge, live jazz in George Town, or lantern-lit bars along the beach. The mix of laughter, lights, and sea breeze makes every night memorable.