Flights from Paris (CDG) to Penang (PEN)

About Penang

Discover Penang

Why visit Penang?
Penang blends historic charm with seaside relaxation, where heritage streets meet waterfront promenades. You will find colourful shophouses, leafy hills, and lively street scenes set against the backdrop of the Andaman Sea.

What to expect
George Town, a UNESCO-listed old town, is the heart of Penang, with narrow lanes, murals, and atmospheric courtyards. Beyond the city, resort-lined Batu Ferringhi, fishing villages, and forested hills create a varied landscape within a compact island.

Plan your trip
Penang works well as a standalone city break or as part of a wider trip through Malaysia and Southeast Asia. With excellent links via Singapore, it is also a convenient gateway to nearby islands, national parks, and other destinations on the Malay Peninsula.

Top sights in Penang

George Town UNESCO Heritage Core

Stroll through historic streets lined with shophouses, street art, and traditional trades in Penang’s most atmospheric district.

Penang Hill

Ride the funicular railway up Penang Hill for cooler air, walking trails, and panoramic island and mainland views.

Clan Jetties

Walk along wooden walkways built over the water to see traditional stilt houses and enjoy views back towards George Town’s skyline.

Khoo Kongsi

Explore this ornate historic complex, known for intricate carvings, decorative roofs, and a peaceful central courtyard.

Penang National Park

Hike coastal and forest trails that lead to quiet beaches, a canopy walkway, and scenic viewpoints.

Batu Ferringhi Beach

Relax on a long sandy stretch lined with resorts and cafes, with water activities and sunsets over the sea.

Gurney Drive seafront

Enjoy an evening promenade along the waterfront, with sea views and easy access to nearby dining and shopping.

Penang Botanical Gardens

Escape the city in spacious gardens framed by jungle-covered hills, ideal for cool morning or late-afternoon walks.

Experience Penang’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Penang is easy to explore using a mix of buses, ride-hailing services, and walking within George Town’s compact centre. Trishaws offer a slower, open-air way to see the heritage streets. For the last mile, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards are best discovered on foot.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Penang plays out in coffee shops, neighbourhood squares, and along shaded five-foot ways. Historic terraces sit beside street art, galleries, and small studios, creating a relaxed, creative atmosphere. The blend of architectural styles adds to the sense of layered history.

Where to unwind
When you need a break, head to waterfront promenades, hillside viewpoints, or leafy parks. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for cooler walks around Penang Hill, the Botanical Gardens, or seafront paths, with soft light and calmer temperatures.

A taste of Penang

Street food & local specialties
Penang is known for its vibrant street food culture, with favourites like stir-fried noodles, aromatic broths, and fresh snacks. Areas around George Town, including busy food streets and informal coffee shops, are where you can try a wide mix of local dishes.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find casual and modern eateries in city malls, restored shophouses, and newer seafront developments. Menus range from local comfort food to international cuisine, allowing you to share plates and sample a variety of flavours in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special meal, consider venues with views over George Town’s rooftops, hillside verandas on Penang Hill, or restaurants facing the sea. These settings combine thoughtful menus with distinctive surroundings, creating memorable evenings to round off your day.

Retail therapy in Penang

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Penang’s main shopping malls gather international brands, electronics, lifestyle stores, and cinemas under one roof. These centres double as social spaces, where you can pick up essentials, dine, and enjoy entertainment in air-conditioned comfort.

Markets & local crafts
For something more distinctive, explore smaller streets in George Town where independent boutiques, galleries, and craft shops sit in restored shophouses. Neighbourhoods near the heritage core and waterfront promenades are good places to look for textiles, artwork, and design-led souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
After dark, certain waterfront areas and busy streets come alive with illuminated shopfronts and small stalls. Evening is a pleasant time to browse, as temperatures ease and the atmosphere becomes livelier, with local buses and ride-hailing services making these districts easy to reach.

Best time to visit Penang

Northeast Monsoon (peak season)
From November to February, Penang is warm and humid, with average temperatures around 27°C (81°F) and occasional showers. Skies are often clearer, making this a popular time for sightseeing, seaside walks, and exploring George Town on foot.

Inter-monsoon months (shoulder season)
March to May brings slightly hotter days, with averages of 28–29°C (82–84°F) and short, refreshing downpours. This is a good period for early-morning hill walks, exploring indoor attractions during the day, and enjoying long evenings outdoors.

Southwest Monsoon (low season)
From June to October, expect warm conditions of about 27–28°C (81–82°F) with more frequent showers, often in the afternoon or evening. The lush greenery and quieter feel can be appealing, and you can comfortably plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities around the rain.

Frequently Asked Questions