Flights from Shanghai (PVG) to Penang (PEN)

About Penang

Discover Penang

Why visit Penang?
Penang blends historic streets, seafront promenades, and hillside scenery in a compact island setting. You can wander past colourful shophouses, pause at art-filled lanes, and end the day with sea breezes along the northern coast.

What to expect
Most visitors stay in George Town, where street art, heritage buildings, and lively cafés sit side by side. Further along the coast, areas such as Batu Ferringhi offer a relaxed beach atmosphere, while the island’s interior brings cooler air, gardens, and walking trails.

Plan your trip
Penang works well for a short city break or as part of a longer journey through Malaysia and the wider region. With reliable transport links and a busy airport, it is an easy base for exploring nearby islands, coastal towns, and inland landscapes.

Top sights in Penang

George Town UNESCO core zone

Stroll through streets lined with restored shophouses, murals, and historical landmarks in the island’s atmospheric capital.

Penang Hill

Ride the funicular up to cooler air, leafy trails, and wide views over George Town and the coast below.

Clan Jetties

Walk along wooden walkways over the water to see traditional stilt houses and waterfront views close to the city.

Batu Ferringhi Beach

Relax on a long sandy shoreline that comes alive in the evening with seaside activities and dining spots.

Kek Lok Si Temple complex

Admire grand halls, decorative details, and hilltop vistas at one of Penang’s most recognisable hill complexes.

Penang Peranakan Mansion

Step inside a restored heritage house filled with ornate tiles, carved wood, and period furnishings.

Penang Botanic Gardens

Enjoy shaded paths, tropical greenery, and open lawns at this tranquil garden at the foot of the hills.

Chew Jetty waterfront views

Visit around sunset to see the sky change colours above the harbour and old wooden piers.

Experience Penang’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Within George Town, you can comfortably explore most streets on foot, with trishaws offering a slower scenic option for short hops. Public buses and e-hailing services link the city to Batu Ferringhi, Penang Hill, and the airport, making last-mile connections simple.

Local life & culture
Penang’s neighbourhoods balance historic charm with a modern creative streak. You will notice street art tucked between older buildings, small galleries in side lanes, and cafés where locals gather. Different communities have shaped the cityscape over time, giving each district a slightly different character.

Where to unwind
When you need a break, seafront promenades and coastal parks provide fresh air and open views. The beaches around Batu Ferringhi feel relaxed during the day, while hilltop viewpoints offer a gentler climate. Early morning and late afternoon are comfortable times to enjoy walks, lookouts, and garden spaces.

A taste of Penang

Street food & local specialties
Penang is widely known for its street stalls and casual open-air eateries. Around George Town you will find local favourites such as noodle dishes, rice plates, and grilled snacks, often clustered in lively evening areas that invite you to sample a little of everything.

Casual & modern dining hubs
If you prefer air-conditioned comfort, shopping centres and newer districts offer cafés and restaurants serving both local and international flavours. Menus are usually designed for sharing, so you can try a variety of small plates, rice and noodle dishes, and light bites over one relaxed meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, consider venues with views over the city or coastline, including rooftop terraces and seaside restaurants. Some spots pair modern menus with historic settings in restored buildings, giving you a memorable backdrop while you enjoy your meal in Penang.

Retail therapy in Penang

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Penang’s main shopping centres combine international brands, local labels, and entertainment in one place. Around George Town and the northern coast, air-conditioned malls offer fashion, lifestyle, and electronics, and they often serve as convenient meeting points between sightseeing stops.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller finds, explore side streets in George Town where independent boutiques, studios, and heritage shophouses sell crafts, art, and design pieces. Areas near the old town core and along the waterfront reveal plenty of opportunities to pick up thoughtful souvenirs and everyday essentials.

Evening retail scene
As the sun sets, some coastal areas transform with stalls and small shops opening along the streets. You can browse for clothing, accessories, and gifts in a cooler evening breeze, then easily return to your hotel using local buses or e-hailing services.

Best time to visit Penang

Northeast Monsoon (November to February) – peak season
During the Northeast Monsoon, temperatures average around 27°C (81°F) with brief showers that refresh the air. Many visitors choose these months for comfortable sightseeing, cooler evenings along the seafront, and pleasant conditions for exploring George Town on foot.

Inter-monsoon months (March to May) – shoulder season
From March to May, Penang is warm and humid, with average temperatures near 28°C (82°F). You can expect sunny spells, short downpours, and vibrant greenery, making this a good time to enjoy shaded gardens, hill areas, and indoor attractions during the hottest hours of the day.

Southwest Monsoon (June to October) – low season
Between June and October, temperatures hover around 27–28°C (81–82°F), with occasional rain and cloud cover. This period sees a more relaxed visitor flow, so you may find quieter streets and viewpoints, along with dramatic skies that add atmosphere to coastal walks and hilltop views.

Frequently Asked Questions