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The state of Penang in Malaysia marries Eastern and Western culture. While visitors can indulge in Malay cuisine and experience quiet revelations at the feet of local temples, they can also wander through bustling markets and unwind at a karaoke lounge. Penang also presents ample opportunity to revel in what nature has to offer. Spend your afternoon at the Penang National Park in Pantai Acheh, hike up Penang Hill through lush rainforest, and stretch your legs on Batu Ferringhi Beach. Penang is also home to the Butterfly Farm, where you can marvel at a live museum of beautiful winged creatures.

Places to see in Penang

What should you do after your arrival in the “Pearl of the Orient?” Start by going to the top of Penang Hill. Not only will you have great views of the city, but you can visit a Hindu temple, walk through an owl temple, and hold a giant python during a snake show. When you make your way down from the hill, head to George Town and marvel at the colonial architecture of the buildings lining the streets. The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and its indigo-blue walls stand out among the rest. It was built by a Chinese industrialist, who believed he needed 38 bedrooms, seven staircases, and 220 windows. Maybe a bit over the top, but it’s beautiful none the less. Don’t forget about the incredibly intricate Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple and Khoo Kongsi clan house. How structures with such minute artistic details were built? We have no idea. To get a feel for the history of this place, check out the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery that showcases the history and culture of Penang through old photos, maps, and artefacts. You’ve got to be hungry after all this exploring, so make your way to Gurney Drive – the unofficial food capital of Malaysia. Chow down on a bowl of char kway teow noodles and all will be well.

Penang Weather

Just like the rest of the region, Penang has a tropical climate year-round. February through April has the warmest temperatures and—when added with the humidity—can make walking around sticky. The wet season lasts from May to October and is the least crowded in terms of tourists. November to January is your best time to score great weather and is also the most festive time of year. Tourists and locals jam the streets, restaurants, and bars in anticipation for the upcoming holidays. The New Year celebrations rival those of Times Square in New York City.

Where to Stay in Penang

Penang hotels and accommodation are primarily located on the island of Penang, however there are some hotels on the portion of Penang sitting on mainland Malaysia. You will find upscale hotels with lush, well-manicured grounds and private cabanas, as well as modest guesthouses ideal for a budget traveller. Book your next Penang accommodation right here on Expedia.co.uk, where we understand your passion for travel and want you to find your ideal hotel.

Travel Basics

You can arrive in Penang by air at the Penang International Airport (PEN), which is just 14 kilometres from the capital city of George Town. Alternatively, train service from Singapore or Thailand will also bring you to mainland Penang. Once in Penang, getting around is easy thanks to the presence of taxis, motorcycle rentals, bicycles, and trishaws.

Plan Your Getaway to Penang

Make your holiday to Malaysia one to remember with a stay in Penang. Eat savory street food, take a cable car along Penang Hill, and rest your head at a comfortable accommodation. Find cheap hotel deals in Penang right here on Expedia.co.uk when you browse today. No one knows travel like Expedia.co.uk, and you will never pay an Expedia booking fee.