Ultimate Travel Guide: 48 Hours in Penang
updated the 3 July 2016 à 21:44
The rich culture of Penang will certainly intrigue you as you embark on this little adventure.
The island of Penang is an interesting sight to behold. It is an amalgamation of the new and the old, offering you experiences you won’t be able to find anywhere else in Malaysia. Let us take you on the ride of your life, as you journey through the streets of this urban city that stands on its own as one of the country’s most diverse and exciting spots on every traveller’s bucket list.
Day One
Morning
Make sure you have a hearty breakfast, as you’re going to need the energy for what’s about to come. Ever heard of Penang Hill? Well, you’re going to climb it. Not literally, thankfully. With the help of the Penang Hill funicular train, you’ll get to experience standing on the summit of the hill and looking out onto the gorgeous scenery of the Penang skyline. Not only that, there are several mesmerising attractions situated atop the hill, such as the Penang Hill Hindu Temple or the Bel Retiro B ungalow showcasing some amazing and unique architecture dating back to the 18th century. Don’t forget to adorn yourself with some henna art by the famous Penang Hill Henna Artists before you leave!
Afternoon
Since you’re going to be spending some time enjoying the sights and sounds on Penang Hill, we won’t make you venture too far out for lunch. Simply head over to the nearby (and famous) Penang Air Itam Laksa for a taste of the state’s iconic food item, Assam Laksa. This stall specialises in only one dish, and does it exceptionally well. We believe your tastebuds are going to be in for a real treat.
Now, let’s relax for a bit and pamper your artistic soul. Take a trip down to Penang Youth Park to familiarise yourself with Penang’s thriving street art culture. This municipal park plays host to the artwork and graffiti of budding street artists that you will fall in love with in just a short amount of time. Delve into the thoughts of these ordinary people creating extraordinary pieces of art, and perhaps you’ll get to take away with you a lesson or two.
Night
You might have to travel a bit, but the Batu Ferringhi Night Market is a bustling attraction you’ve definitely got to hit. This is the traveller’s paradise, as it offers items of every kind, from clothes to homeware and, of course, food. Take your time to check out every stall, and be sure to come with your toughest haggling skills to get the best out of every deal!
Day Two
Morning
It’s the morning yet again! What better way to spend a lovely morning in Penang than with a delicious Penang breakfast meal? Venture towards Loke Thye Kee for your classic Hainanese wake-me-up: toasted or steamed bread topped with generous servings of kaya and butter. Complement your dish with a pair of perfectly boiled eggs and an aromatic cup of coffee or tea, done the right way.
Afternoon
Are you new to the Chinese culture? Either way, this should interest you. Not far away from your breakfast spot lies the Khoo Kongsi, a Chinese clanhouse for those with the surname Khoo. Take a tour around the intricately-designed building to learn all about Malaysia’s most distinctive clan association whose lineage can be traced back to almost 650 years ago.
When you’re done, and if you’re interested in learning more about this quaint little Malaysian state, why not traipse down to the Penang Peranakan Mansion just a few blocks away? Penang has played a huge role in housing the Peranakan community for several decades, explaining why the traditions and influences of the Babas and Nyonyas continue to remain in this multicultural city. The gorgeous Peranakan museum takes you into the opulent lifestyle of a rich Baba, recreated for tourists and locals to understand a little bit more about how life in the country was like a century ago.
You should be starving by now. Not to worry, a generous feast awaits at Sri Weld Food Court, 200m away from where you’re situated at right now. Indulge in an assortment of cuisines at an incredibly low price, without compromising on food quality and service standards. Having lunch at a hawker centre is definitely something you have to do in Penang, in order to truly integrate yourself into the Penang culture.
Night
Alright, it’s time to give yourself a break for all the sightseeing you’ve done the past two days. You’ll be glad to know how versatile Penang can be. It offers all the shopping you would expect of an urban state, provides tourists with historic sites for exciting heritage tours, and even gives its people a gorgeous view of the sunset by the beach. QEII offers one of the best seats in the evening by the waterfront, so head over early, grab a drink and hold on to all your Penang memories as you bid goodbye to the wonderful city.
Dione Chen
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