George Town - Discovering Malaysia

Travelling to George Town

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in George Town, a pretty good destination in Malaysia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to George Town and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around George Town, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Malaysia, here's everything to know about George Town for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to George Town

George Town is a city located in the state of Penang, Malaysia. It is known for its rich history, multiculturalism, and unique architecture. In 2008, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city boasts a diverse range of attractions, from colonial-era buildings such as Fort Cornwallis and City Hall, to beautiful temples such as Kek Lok Si and Sri Mariamman. It is also a food lover's paradise, with a mix of Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine available at hawker stalls and upscale restaurants alike. The city is also home to numerous museums, parks, and shopping areas, making it a popular destination for tourists.

What to visit in George Town

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in George Town, along with some information for each of them: 1. Penang Hill - It is a famous attraction that offers a panoramic view of the city. Visitors can reach the top either by train or by hiking through the nature trails. On top of the hill, you’ll find restaurants, souvenir shops and gardens.
2. Kek Lok Si Temple - The largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, this temple features a seven-tiered pagoda that is beautifully lit up at night. Visitors can walk around the temple or take a cable car ride up to the main temple area.
3. Clan Jetties - These are traditional Chinese stilt houses that have been turned into tourist spots. The jetties are lined up along the waterfront and visitors can explore the narrow walkways and shops.
4. Fort Cornwallis - This 18th-century fort is one of the oldest buildings in George Town. Visitors can walk around the fort and explore the cannons that were used during the colonial period.
5. Street Art - George Town is famous for its street art. Visitors can walk around the city and take pictures with the various murals and paintings by local artists.
6. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion - This beautifully restored mansion is a fine example of 19th-century Chinese architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about its history.
7. Pinang Peranakan Museum - This museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the Baba Nyonya, a unique culture that combines Malay and Chinese traditions. Visitors can see artifacts like antique furniture, textiles and jewelry.
8. Khoo Kongsi - Another example of Chinese architecture, this 19th-century clan house features intricate carvings and ornate decorations. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and its various halls and temples.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Malaysia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in George Town.

When to go on holiday to George Town

The best time to visit George Town in Malaysia is between December and March when the weather is dry and sunny. The temperature during these months ranges between 25°C to 32°C. However, the prices for accommodation and flights are generally higher during this period.
If you're looking for cheaper rates, you may consider visiting George Town during the shoulder seasons which are from April to May and September to November. During these periods, you can still enjoy a good amount of sunshine but bear in mind that there may be some occasional rain showers.
Between June and August, it's the monsoon season in George Town, and the weather can be quite unpredictable with frequent rainfall, high humidity and occasional thunderstorms. It may not be the best time to visit if you like outdoor activities or going to the beach.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to George Town

George Town is the capital city of the state of Penang, Malaysia. The best way to get to George Town is by flying to the Penang International Airport, which is located about 16 kilometers south of the city. Alternatively, you can take a train to Butterworth, which is the nearest mainland town to Penang Island. From there, you can take a ferry to George Town on Penang Island. If you are already in Malaysia, you can also take a bus to George Town from other cities in Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, or Ipoh. Once you arrive in George Town, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get around the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit George Town, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in George Town

George Town, Malaysia boasts a diverse culinary scene that includes a range of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors. Here's a list of some typical foods that you should try when you visit George Town: 1. Char Koay Teow - A popular stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs, flavored with soy sauce and chili paste.
2. Nasi Kandar - A dish consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes such as fried chicken, fried fish, and vegetables.
3. Assam Laksa - A sour and spicy fish-based soup made with tamarind, chili, and fish flakes, served with rice noodles, cucumber, and onions.
4. Curry Mee - A noodle dish served in a spicy curry broth, usually made with coconut milk and topped with prawns, tofu, and cuttlefish.
5. Rojak - A mixed fruit and vegetable salad served with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.
6. Apom Balik - A thin, crispy pancake made with coconut milk and filled with either sweet or savory ingredients like crushed peanuts and sweet corn.
7. Hokkien Mee - A stir-fried noodle dish made with thick yellow noodles, prawns, pork, vegetables, and dark soy sauce.
8. Hainanese Chicken Rice - A simple dish of poached chicken and fragrant rice, served with soy sauce, chili sauce, and ginger paste.
9. Cendol - A dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and green "cendol" noodles. Sometimes served with red beans or sweet corn.
10. Mee Rebus - A noodle dish served in a thick, sweet potato-based gravy, topped with hard-boiled eggs, bean sprouts, and fried shallots.
You can find general info about typical foods in Malaysia here.

Is George Town an expensive destination for tourists?

George Town is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination for tourists. However, the cost of your trip will depend on your travel style, the type of accommodation you choose, the activities you want to do, and the food and drinks you consume.
Accommodation in George Town can range from budget hostels to luxury hotels, with prices varying accordingly. Similarly, food options range from cheap local street food to high-end restaurants.
Overall, you can expect to spend a moderate amount on your trip to George Town, but with some careful planning, you can easily find great deals on accommodation, food, and activities to suit your budget.

Where to find accomodation in George Town

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting George Town are the historic center, also known as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and City Centre, which is located next to the historic center but offers more modern amenities and luxury hotels. Other good areas to consider are the Batu Ferringhi beach area for a resort-style holiday, or the Gurney Drive area which offers a mix of shopping, dining, and beach activities.
You can check hotel prices at George Town here:
Booking.com

Is George Town a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, George Town in Malaysia is considered a reasonably safe place for tourists. However, as with any location, it is still essential to take precautionary measures when traveling.
Here are some general safety tips for travelers in George Town: - Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid dark and isolated areas at night.
- Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets and theft, especially in crowded areas.
- Use only authorized taxis or public transportation services to avoid scams.
- Respect local customs and traditions to avoid any unwanted attention or conflict.
- Always carry a copy of your identification documents with you, such as your passport or ID card.
Overall, if you exercise common sense and are vigilant, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to George Town.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Malaysia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting George Town.

What type of travelers will enjoy George Town the most?

George Town, Malaysia can be an enjoyable destination for various types of travelers. Here are some examples: 1. Couples: George Town is a romantic destination with its blend of cultures, heritage sites, and natural beauty. Couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the UNESCO-listed streets, indulging in local street food, taking scenic boat tours, and experiencing the lively nightlife.
2. Young People Looking for Fun: George Town boasts a thriving cafe culture, with many hip and cool cafes and bars that play host to music performances, exhibitions, and artistic events. The street art scene in George Town also makes it a popular destination for young travelers.
3. Families: George Town has something for visitors of all ages. Families with children can visit the adventure parks, museums, and temples, such as the Penang Hill, Escape Theme Park, Butterfly Farm, and Toy Museum Heritage Garden.
Overall, George Town is a destination that caters to and fulfills the desires of all types of travelers.

How to get around George Town

One of the best and most convenient ways to move around George Town is by using the local bus networks, RapidPenang or Hop-On Hop-Off. Another option is using taxis or ride-sharing services like Grab. Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the city's historic streets and sights.

What to see around George Town

Here are some places you can visit in a day trip from George Town: 1. Penang Hill - a hill station that provides a panoramic view of the city and offers several adventurous activities such as canopy walks, hiking trails, and more.
2. Batu Ferringhi Beach - a beautiful beach with white sand and crystal-clear water. It is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
3. Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm - a butterfly sanctuary with thousands of butterflies, insects, and other creatures. It is a must-visit for nature lovers.
4. Kek Lok Si Temple - a Buddhist temple that is both grand and captivating, with impressive architecture and eye-catching works of art.
5. Escape Adventureland - an outdoor theme park with a variety of thrilling adventure activities such as zip-lining, water rides, and more.
6. Snake temple - a Chinese temple located in Bayan Lepas which has become a sanctuary for many snakes.
7. Tropical Spice Garden - a nature sanctuary that showcases different types of tropical plants, spices, and herbs.
8. Penang National Park - a perfect place for outdoor activities and nature trails and to enjoy the flora and fauna of Malaysia.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Malaysia you can click here.

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