Penang tourist guide – what to see

Where once pirates and privateers preyed upon unsuspecting merchant ships today can be found a huge variety of resorts, restaurants and hospitality venues. Penang is a fantastic destination with plenty of history and culture as well as lovely beaches, rainforest and natural attractions.

People flock to colonial Georgetown to see a civilisation steeped in age-old traditions which are still maintained to this day. Unique oriental communities mix with Indian Hindus and Muslim immigrants from the Middle East and subcontinent. Burmese Buddhist temples stage enormous waterfights down the street from Anglican churches consecrated before the first English dictionary was published.

But Georgetown is just a small part of the island and the farther reaches exude nature and everything from camping on deserted beaches to exploring the virgin rainforest is on offer. Visit butterfly farms and fresh fruit orchards or perhaps just relax at the foot of cascading waterfalls and take a refreshing deep in freshwater pools.

But those wanting to really indulge themselves during their annual break can opt to stay in one of the world-class resorts by Batu Terringhi. Although you will no longer find your own deserted slice of paradise, the beach is well-maintained and the standard of food and entertainment more than make up for the crowds.

Attractions
From crumbling tombs and old forts to unique communities that live over the water’s edge, there are attractions in Penang to make everyone take notice… more

Tours
Those short on time to staying in the outer beach resorts may want to take one of our suggested tours to get the most from their time on the island… more

Day trips
While Georgetown and the beach areas have a hoast of enthralling attractions there are lots of other things to see and do slightly farther afield… more

Georgetown
The colonial capital of Georgetown was one of the foremost cities of the Orient for centuries and has a fascinating and sometimes blood history to prove it.. more

Batu Farringhi
This beach town has seen back-to-back developments take over but remains an accessible and lively place to be based just 30 minutes from Georgetown… more

Religious sites
The unique mix of cultures and races is what really adds the real magic to Penang and to witness all the festivities and strange rites is a thrilling experience… more

Museums & galleries
With everything from toys to butterflies, there’s no better way to delve into the unique make-up of Penang than spending some time in its museums… more