Welcome to George Town, the colorful and vibrant capital of the state of Penang in Malaysia. With its rich history and diverse culture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this guide, we will provide you with a 3-day itinerary that highlights the most important places to see, the best routes to take, and where to eat and sleep. Let’s get started!
Travel Tips in George Town
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking
- Bring a hat and sunscreen as it can get hot and sunny
- Try to avoid visiting during the monsoon season (September to November) as heavy rain can disrupt your plans
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs
What to See in George Town
George Town is a city filled with historic buildings, colorful street art, and delicious food. Here are some of the most important places you should visit:
- Fort Cornwallis – This star-shaped fort was built in the late 18th century by the British East India Company and is the largest standing fort in Malaysia.
- Khoo Kongsi – This Chinese clan house is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture and is decorated with intricate carvings and colorful murals.
- Penang Hill – Take a funicular train up to the top of Penang Hill for breathtaking views of the city.
- Clan Jetties – These water villages are home to different Chinese clans and offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life in George Town.
- Street Art – George Town is famous for its street art, with murals and installations by local and international artists scattered throughout the city.
Routes in George Town
Here are some suggested routes to help you make the most of your time in George Town:
- Heritage Trail – This route will take you to some of the most important historic sites in the city, including Fort Cornwallis, the Penang State Museum, and the City Hall.
- Street Art Trail – Follow this trail to discover some of the most famous murals and installations in the city, including the «Little Children on a Bicycle» and «Brother and Sister on a Swing».
- Food Trail – George Town is a food lover’s paradise, and this route will take you to some of the best places to eat in the city. Don’t miss the famous Penang laksa, char kway teow, and nasi kandar.
- Nature Trail – If you’re looking for a break from the city, head to the Botanic Gardens or the Penang Hill for a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery.
Where to Sleep in George Town
There are plenty of accommodation options in George Town to suit every budget and preference. Here are some suggestions:
- Eastern & Oriental Hotel – This iconic luxury hotel is a landmark in George Town and has been welcoming guests since 1885.
- Seven Terraces – This boutique hotel is housed in a beautifully restored row of 19th-century shophouses and features elegant rooms and a rooftop pool.
- Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel – For budget travelers, this hostel offers clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms in a traditional Japanese-style setting.
Where to Eat in George Town
George Town is famous for its street food, but there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes serving delicious cuisine from all over the world. Here are some of our top picks:
- Lorong Selamat Char Kway Teow – This famous street food stall serves up the best char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) in the city.
- Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow – Another must-try dish in George Town is the charcoal-fired char koay teow (flat rice noodles stir-fried with egg, prawns, and cockles) at this popular stall.
- Cecil Street Market Hawker Centre – This hawker center is a great place to sample a variety of local dishes, including nasi kandar, curry mee, and roti canai.
- China House – This trendy cafe and restaurant is housed in a historic shophouse and features an eclectic menu and delicious cakes and pastries.
Free Tours in George Town
If you’re on a budget or want to learn more about the history and culture of George Town, there are several free tours available:
- Guided Walking Tours – The Penang Tourist Centre offers free guided walking tours of the city every day at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm.
- George Town Heritage Walk – This self-guided walk takes you on a journey through the historic heart of George Town, with detailed information about each site along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time of year to visit George Town?
- The best time to visit George Town is from December to February when the weather is cool and dry. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (September to November) as heavy rain can disrupt your plans.
- What is the currency in Malaysia?
- The currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
- Is it safe to walk around George Town at night?
- George Town is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions when walking around at night. Stick to well-lit and busy areas and avoid walking alone.
- Do I need a visa to visit Malaysia?
- It depends on your nationality. Check with the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your country for the latest visa requirements.
Conclusion
George Town is a city that should not be missed when visiting Malaysia. With its rich history, diverse culture, and delicious food, there is something for everyone. Follow this 3-day itinerary to make the most of your time in the city, and don’t forget to check out the official tourism website of the city of George Town for more information and updates.
