Attractions · Penang
Things to do in Penang.
George Town's heritage core and the hill above it: the funicular railway, the great temple at Air Itam, and the street art trail through the old town.
Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)
The funicular railway up from Air Itam to the hill station at 833 metres: the view over George Town and the strait, the Habitat's canopy walkway and the colonial bungalows along the summit roads.
How to book: Funicular tickets at the lower station or online; the fast lane costs more and is worth it on holiday weekends. Go early for the clearest air.
Book Penang Hill funicular ticketsvia KKday · affiliate linkKek Lok Si Temple
The largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, climbing the hill at Air Itam in terraces: the pagoda of ten thousand Buddhas, the great pavilion of the Goddess of Mercy above it, and lanterns across the slopes at Chinese New Year.
How to book: Entry to the grounds is free; the pagoda and the incline lift carry a small charge, paid there.
George Town street art and the clan jetties
The old town's famous walls: the iron rod caricatures and the painted murals (the children on a bicycle above all), and the clan jetties, whole villages on stilts over the water at Weld Quay.
How to book: Free and self-guided: pick up a map at the tourist office or follow the marked trail. Early morning is best for the photographs and the heat.
Planning the stay itself: the area guides cover what is on, and the hotels page covers where to sleep near it.