How to Spend a Long Weekend in Penang

A tiny island state on the northwest coast of the Malay Peninsular Penang packs a lot of experiences for visitors despite its size. Apart from UNESCO World Heritage Sites, remarkable street art and alluring beaches visitors are bowled over by its gorgeous cuisine, a tasteful result of its exotic mix of cultures. Penang is undoubtedly the perfect getaway for a long weekend, discover the many exciting things possible for a 3-day stay in Penang.

About Penang

Penang Island was a part of the Sultanate of Kedah till the 18th century and was a peaceful island with random visits by the Portuguese, Chinese and British expeditions who appreciated the natural harbour, scenic surroundings, and strategic location.

This strategic location at the intersection of many trade routes, countries and different cultures shaped the history of Penang in the ensuing period making Penang a successful trading port, especially in the spice trade. Other settlements started in Penang with more immigrants arriving especially of Chinese origin. Towards the 19th century, Penang became a city with a fascinating mix of cultures predominantly of Malay, Chinese and Indian origins. All these facets add to the charm of Penang you experience today.

Getting into Penang and accommodation

International passengers who travel to Penang will arrive at Penang International Airport in the south of Penang Island which is about 11 miles away from the capital city George Town. The regular taxi and bus services from the airport enable them to arrive at their accommodation in the city. For those using the bus service, tickets can be purchased at the arrival terminal.

Penang offers a huge variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets of visitors, therefore selecting what is most appropriate lies in your hands. Many visitors when choosing their weekend getaway in Penang tend to select properties by Discover ASR due to the central location among various other factors.

Places to see and experience

The best way to experience Penang is by starting in George Town. Read through to find some of the best attractions. You can select the ones to explore out of the following.

UNESCO World Heritage Streets of George Town – Founded by the British, George Town was a thriving multicultural trading hub. These old streets of George Town are best explored on foot to admire the old houses, and ancient shopfronts and to feel the atmosphere around them. Some visitors opt to do this exploration on rickshaws to have the authentic feel of that era.

Street Art – These beautiful and vibrant creations can be seen down narrow alleys and lanes and are in various forms such as murals, wall paintings, and steel sculptures most of which are artistic expressions of the daily life of the people in Penang, some are humorous while some are practical everyday actions. These street arts are highly IG-worthy backdrops captured by many visitors.

Clan Jetties – Lining the shores of George Town these old wooden jetties dating back to the 19th century feature the ancient village of rustic houses built on stilts over water by different clans of Chinese Origin who helped their fellow clan members to settle in peaceful and scenic Penang. At present, this is a floating village with wooden walkways shops and houses to witness and be inspired by the history of this village.

Chinatown – Full of narrow streets of vibrant hues embellished with Chinese Script this is an unmissable Chinese Quarter in Penang. With many migrations from China, there are three parts to Chinatown in George Town.

Little India – This vibrant area of Colonial George Town must be explored to experience the Indian culture. There are many Hindu temples which also have cultural festivals as can be experienced during different periods of the year. While you are in this area don’t fail to enjoy a good Indian meal from any one of the curry houses on Lebuh Pasar.

Enjoy the gorgeous food

Experiencing the aromas, sights, and taste of food in George Town is best experienced as visitors down Chulia Street initially. This old street is famous for the quality and variety of street food that is available doing justice to the reputation of George Town.

Try famous dishes such as laksa, wanton mee, char kwey teow, curry mee and various kinds of snacks etc. There are plenty of other eating places in Chinatown and Little India etc. to be explored. Make sure you do a visit to one of the Kopitiams for a hearty breakfast followed by coffee before you leave Penang.