Penang City Walk without backtracking: Start at the iconic Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue House) → Savor traditional treats at Mohd Naim Nyonya Kuih Factory → Stroll down the charming Love Lane, Penang → Admire the historical St. George’s Church → Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Esplanade → Marvel at the British colonial architecture on Bank Street, Penang → Step into the opulent Peranakan Mansion → Explore the unique Clan Jetties → Discover vibrant street art on Mural Street (Figures 6 & 7) → End your day with a visit to the historic Fire Station on Beach Street (Figure 8)
📍Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue House): Tickets are 25RM, and it’s wise to book online in advance to secure your spot.
📍Mohd Naim Nyonya Kuih Factory: This Michelin-recommended factory (Figure 2) is a must-visit for sweet-toothed travelers. Opening hours: 10:00am-5:00pm
📍Esplanade: A hub of historical landmarks, including the Town Hall, City Hall, World War I Memorial, Fort Cornwallis, and the picturesque Esplanade Clock Tower (Figure 3).
📍Bank Street, Penang: Take a stroll down this street lined with stunning British colonial-style buildings, each telling a story of the past.
📍Peranakan Mansion: With tickets priced at 30RM, this mansion (open from 9:30am-5pm) is not only a visual treat but also one of the filming locations for the popular TV series “The Little Nyonya” (Figure 4).
📍Clan Jetties: For a more commercial experience, head to Chew Jetty, or for a serene and scenic view, Tan Jetty is the perfect choice (Figure 5).
Penang Hill → Kek Lok Si Temple
📍Penang Hill (Figure 1): Experience the thrill of a funicular train ride. Regular lane round trip costs RM30, while the fast lane is RM80. It’s highly recommended to opt for the fast lane on weekends or holidays to avoid long queues.
📍Kek Lok Si Temple (Figures 9 & 10): The cable car journey covers three stations.
First station one way is 3RM, round trip 6RM. The second station offers an electric cart ride for 2RM, though it’s not recommended due to the short distance. The third station takes you to the top of the hill, where the majestic Guanyin statue awaits. One way 3RM, round trip 6RM.
📍After exploring Kek Lok Si, indulge in local delicacies at 2828.
Laksa, cendol, red bean ice, and coconut juice are all highly recommended (Figure 11).
📍Hin Bus Depot
If your Penang itinerary includes a weekend, don’t miss the vibrant weekend market at Hin Bus Depot. Opening hours: Weekends 11am-5pm (Figures 12 & 13)
🌟Michelin Recommended Restaurants
Green House Prawn Noodle: Dive into a bowl of delicious prawn noodles (Figure 14)
Emperor Braised Meat: While the taste is average, it might not be worth the wait (Figure 15)
Sardaarji: Savor the rich flavors of Indian cuisine, with the garlic cheese naan being a standout (Figure 16)
Richard Rivalee Peranakan Cuisine: Experience the authentic flavors of Peranakan cooking (Figure 17)
Koay Teow Th’ng Rice Noodle Soup: A comforting bowl of rice noodle soup that will warm your soul (Figure 18)
I love how this guide covers both classic landmarks and unique local experiences! The Peranakan culture and street art really stood out to me as must-sees when visiting George Town. I’d add that trying the hawker food along the way would make it even more memorable.