penang visit place at night

25 Best Things To Do In Penang At Night – Nightlife & More

For things to do in Penang at night, you don’t have to go far! As most of the places are close to each other!

By this, we mean George Town. And thus, this is usually sufficient for first-time visitors to the city!

Some places in this post are the same ones you can see in the daytime. But time your visit right and you can be there for both sunset and nightfall too!

Best Things To Do In Penang At Night

Where to take an evening stroll, indulge in late-night shopping in penang, get a taste of penang street food or go fancy, have a late cuppa at a night cafe in penang.

• Check Out Penang’s Night Scene!

Stay Out Late At One Of Penang’s Live Streets!

1. cross the komtar rainbow skywalk.

Up on the 68 th floor of The Top, KOMTAR is a short circular glass bridge that juts out from the building.

From here, you can see Penang through the glass from the sides of the bridge as well as the floor!

If you get the all-day ticket, you can come back again in the evening to see a different view!

2. Take A Sunset Cruise

After a day of trekking at Penang National Park , you can take a boat back to the island from Monkey Beach or Pantai Keracut . At sunset, the view is mesmerizing!

Or just take the sunset cruises that start at 5pm and last up to ~3 hours , passing by jungle and wetlands!

You can get a boat from the entrance of the Penang National Park . The boat trips do require at least 2 people . With a maximum of 10 people per boat !

• ~RM50 (Monkey Beach)
• ~RM100 (Around the island including the turtle sanctuary)

3. George Town From Atop Penang Hill

View the city from Penang Hill Sky Walk (or Sky Deck). Take your time as the last train down the hill departs at 11pm !

The Habitat Sunset Walk

It’s not free to access The Habitat or its iconic Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk , the highest point on Penang Hill!

Sunset packages begin from 5:30pm onwards (Saturdays and Sundays only) and include access to the platform.

Note: Walk-in purchases are advisable if you are interested in The Habitat Sunset Walk.

4. Admire All The Lights At Kek Lok Si Temple (Chinese New Year Only)

Once a year , throngs of visitors look forward to the wonderful light display at the massive temple complex!

At any other time of the year, the temple is not open past 5:30pm ! So, take advantage of the longer opening hours and visit the temple after or right before dinner!

Closing time during Chinese New Year will be 10pm or 12am for weekdays and weekends respectively .

If you’re going to make a visit here after Chinese New Year (i.e. in March), expect the gates to close by 9:30pm. We suggest taking an e-hailing service too even though the car parks are open.

Read more about Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang .

5. Go On An Evening Stroll At The Clan Jetties Of Penang

After the daytime crowds disperse, head over to Chew Jetty or Lee Jetty ! These villages will have colorful lights on later!

The floating  Hean Boo Thean  Temple at the end of Yeoh Jetty is a sight to behold at and after sunset too!

It’s quite romantic to walk among the houses along the pier while you listen to the waves, watch the sunset, and feel the sea breeze!

6. Ride An E Bike Around George Town At Night

We found out (the hard way) that the best time to take an e-bike, or bicycle is during the night. It makes wandering around George Town a cool and fun experience.

There are also less cars and people to navigate around at this time.

Mind that most bicycle rental shops in George Town close between 6 to 7pm. But LinkBike Station 17 at Campbell Street is open for 24 hours.

7. Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park

This Park was part of a project in 2018 to conserve the rich history of the area and develop it as a family-friendly recreational spot too.

In fact, the Park represents two archeological sites: the Sia Boey Market and the Old Prangin Canal Basin.

The Canal Basin, which is a monsoon drain, has now been converted into a lively colorful koi pond.

Fun fact: Sia Boey which roughly translates to “end of the town” in Hokkien was given its name because in the 19th century Georgetown was only developed till the Prangin Canal.

While the rest of the Sia Boey has been rejuvenated with plants, a children’s playground, and a public square. This historic site is a great place a cool morning or a romantic moonlit stroll!

• Entry: Free
• Location: 50, Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
• Opening Hours: 6am to 11pm

8. Hit The Mall (Penang Shopping Malls)

Of all the places to visit in Penang at night, a shopping mall might not be the top of your list!

But how about 2 right next to each other?

Glitzy Gurney Paragon and Gurney Plaza hold plentiful shopping opportunities for the fashion-conscious! And a medley of late-night eateries!

Queensbay Mall has even more stores to peruse if you do not know what to buy from Penang !

9. Browse The Local Night Markets

Monday’s Macallum Street Night Market is an undisputed food haven for street food like char kway teow and satay!

On Tuesday’s, you’ll want to be at Tanjung Bungah Night Market ! Especially if it’s durian season ! There is local food as well as international street food like xiao long bao and aligot !

And over in Batu Ferringhi, the Batu Ferringhi Night Market has plenty of non-edible wares for sale! There are souvenirs, jewellery, shoes and even beach wear!

Related: List of local night markets in Penang

10. Presgrave Street

Forget Gurney Drive (a tourist trap in our opinion), this street has much better food.

It starts getting busy even before 6pm so try to go before then if you don’t want to have to struggle for parking, finding a table big enough to sit your group.

There are 3 eateries next to each other starting from the one called Presgrave Street Corner.

And from them, you can order delicious duck or chicken egg char kuay teow and oh chien (oyster omelette).

But you really don’t want to miss the famous Hokkien mee over at 888 Hokkien. It’s extremely tasty and satisfying.

Mind that all of these eateries open at 4pm and close by 9:30pm.

11. Chulia Street Hawker Stalls

Although smaller than the food court on Gurney Drive, Chulia Street has enough variety to satisfy your street food cravings!

Stall owners start serving from 6pm with the peak around 8pm !

These roadside stalls sell popiah, muah chee, hokkien mee, char kway teow, lor bak , curry mee, wantan mee, chee cheong fun , satay, laksa , and more!

Honestly, we don’t like the dining atmosphere at Chulia Street. Many of the stalls appear dirty and seats are too close to the road. The food is nothing memorable even if there is a lot of variety.

12. Kimberley Street Food Night Market

Between Chulia Street and Kimberly Street Food Night Market, we personally think the latter has better food. And places to sit too (albeit limited) if you patronize the beverage shops in the same street.

Here, you can try other Penang dishes like duck meat kway chap and oyster omelet ( oh chien ). There are not as many savory options compared to desserts here. But they taste better, in our opinion.

Prices are still reasonable too.

13. Ferringhi Garden

Undoubtedly, the best thing about Ferringhi Garden is the ambiance!

It’s hard to beat dining outdoors when it’s in such a lovely mature garden ! The indoor seating is equally cozy with liberal use of timber!

Western food like spaghetti, seafood platters and steak feature on the menu. This is also an ideal spot for breakfast as the coffee barista meets Melbourne standards !

• Location: 34, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Batu Feringgi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: Daily from 5pm to 10:30pm (*Last order at 9:30pm)
• Contact: +604-881 1196

14. Fine Dining At The Indigo Restaurant ( The Blue Mansion )

The Blue Mansion’s stunning on-site restaurant is on the first floor and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

A fusion of Western and Eastern prevails in both the interior and menu! The chef hails from Penang and has over 10 years of international culinary experience!

Steep prices ensure exclusivity. And you can expect faultless service while you’re here!

• Lunch menu has a more reasonable price point
• Dinner guests get to join the evening tours of the mansion at 6:30pm
• Location: 14, Lebuh Leith, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: Daily from 12pm to 3pm; 6:30pm to 10pm
• Contact: +604-262 0006

For other fine dining options, head on over to our article on the top places for fine dining in penang island for a more detailed list!

15. Wheelers Café Penang

Healthy food , a clean environment , commendable filter coffee , air-conditioning and a satisfying drinks menu makes Wheelers a favorite with tourists around Love Lane !

Prices are acceptable considering that the  portions are large,  and that the  pork-free  food is tasty!

Do try their double cheeseburger and signature  espresso chicken ! There are  vegan options  too!

And they have a set breakfast ( daily ) and lunch menu ( weekdays only ) available for dine-in guests!

• Location: 67, Lorong Love, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: Daily from 8am to 12am
• Contact: +6019-524 7703

16. Narrow Marrow

It’s easy to miss the front of this café with its tinted windows and potted plants on  Carnarvon Street !

Keeping much of the original  2-storey pre-war shophouse  intact, Narrow Marrow specializes in coffee (particularly  black coffee ) and  cheesecakes !

Note: There are some savory bites too

Cake Flavors That They Have:

• Expresso Kahlua Tiramisu
• Salted Gula Melaka
• Apple Crumble
• Location: 252A, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: Daily from 3pm to 11pm (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
• Contact: +6014-303 6647 or +604-226 3083

17. Hard Rock Cafe Penang

At Hard Rock Café Penang, you can order  American favorites  like burgers, pizza, beer, decadent milkshakes, brownies and sundaes, salads, and  New York cheesecake ! In  huge portions !

There’s a live band performance every day too from 10.30pm to 2.00am .

And naturally, music memorabilia deck the walls of the café!  While the  on-site Rock Shop ® sells  Hard Rock Cafe Penang t-shirts , caps, pins, and others!

• Location: Ground floor of Hard Rock Hotel, Batu Ferringhi Beach 11100, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: 12pm to 11pm; Friday & Saturday from 12pm to 1am
• Contact: +604-886 8050

18. Chinahouse

Chinahouse beckons with its multiple establishments within 3 linked heritage shop-houses ! All surrounding a beautiful courtyard with a public pool!

A library is at the top floor with drawing materials free for public use!

Cafes: Kopi C

Restaurants:

• BTB (middle eastern fusion cuisine)
• The Canteen (live music on the weekends!)

Bar: Vine & Single

Shops: Bonton Shop 2 (jewelry shop)

Bakery: Beach Street Bakery (many many different types of cakes!)

• Location: 153, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30am to 1am
• Contact: +604-263 7299

Read more: 19 Best Cafe In Penang With Great Coffee (Includes New Cafes)

Check Out Penang’s Night Scene! (Pubs, Bars & Nightclubs)

19. three sixty revolving restaurant and rooftop bar.

Right on top of Bayview Hotel is a revolving restaurant and rooftop bar with floor-to-ceiling windows! It doesn’t matter where you sit as the whole restaurant will complete its circuit gradually!

The intimate space is suitable for a birthday or private celebration! They serve local and western food in buffet style. With imported beer on tap!

And it goes without saying that this is another spot to see the sunset! Against Penang’s skyline !

• Location: 25-A, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang Island
• Opening Hours: Daily from 4pm to 12am
• Contact: +604-261 3540

20. Sky Terrace (Penang Hill)

On weekends, this place is usually full of families. The food is good and there’s a spectacular view of Penang!

Note: If you go during lunch time, you can take advantage of the lunch set which comes with enough food to share!

In fact, this is a prime spot for watching the fireworks on New Year’s Eve as you can sit outside in the garden! And have drinks from the bar while you listen to the live band in the evening!

• Location: Strawberry Hill, Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera, 11300 Air Itam, Penang
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9am to 9pm

21. Kara Kara

Sporting a futuristic interior , Kara Kara offers tasty food (including sharing platters), Japanese desserts as well as cocktails.

Warm service, current music, and a DJ make Kara Kara a very welcoming place for those looking for a good time with friends.

Sometimes, there is a live band performing too.

This is a  pet-friendly venue  and customers can bring their furry companions here if they want to. Despite the higher price point, Kara Kara is a thriving hang out spot in this part of town.

• Location: 5B, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
• Opening Hours: 7pm to 2am daily
• Contact: +6017-2706729

22. The Pokok – All Day Bar

With a live band playing under their namesake tree, The Pokok – All Day Bar attracts a crowd to take up their open-air seating . Rain is not a deterrent either.

In fact, it can get very crowded at The Pokok – All Day Bar on weekends.

PS: Those sitting outdoors will have to tolerate the humidity of the outdoors.

If you choose to sit upstairs at The Pokok – All Day Bar, you might find the service slower since the staff focuses on the outdoor seating.

Cold draught beer of many different brands  is available at The Pokok – All Day Bar. Just mind that not all the brands apply for their happy hour.

The food at The Pokok – All Day Bar is average at best. But there are nearby roadside hawker stalls if you want more options.

• Location: Lot, 227, Chulia St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
• Opening Hours: 4pm-2am
• Contact: +6012-5456152

23. BoraBora @ Ferringhi

Beach bars more your thing? Besides its location right on the beach, BoraBora@Ferringhi even has fire dance performances around 8pm .

Hence, seating on the terrace is the most sought after (for the killer sunset views too).

The menu consists of Western fare like pasta, fish and chips, and finger food. You do have to spend at least RM50 to get to stay here longer.

Portions run small and thus, it is pricey to dine here. Service can be slow and the foreign staff rude and inattentive at times.

But for lovely sunset views, great nighttime entertainment, potent cocktails, and cold beer, BoraBora@Ferringhi is an ideal venue to share with a special someone or friends.

• Location: 72D, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang
• Opening Hours: 12:30pm-1am; Friday & Saturday, 12:30pm–1:30am; Closed on Wednesdays
• Contact: +604-8851313

24. Love Lane Nightlife

Love Lane Penang has many daytime eateries double up as pubs perfect for  people watching and socializing !

And there’s usually another nighttime haunt just beside or right around the corner if you want to bar-crawl!

Recommendations:

• Holy Guacamole
• Micke’s Place

Read more: 11 Best Penang Massage Spa Centres To Get A Relaxing Body & Foot Massage

25. Chulia Street Nightlife

Like Love Lane , Chulia Street  is famous for its  lively night scene ! This area is popular with foreign tourists looking for cocktails and beer.

There are many venues to try, and they are all walking distance from each other.

Other Recommendations:

• Chulia Court The Tavern
• The Original Reggae Club
• The Pokok – All Day Bar
• Rockafellas Kitchen & Bar

Getting Around Penang

RayTheTour is a private tour service that will bring your Penang experience to another level!

Why You Should Book With RayTheTour:

• Comfortable and spacious transport – van or MPV
• Direct pick up (and drop off) at any Penang location
• Standard hours are flexible around 9am to 6pm
• Go anywhere you want with no fixed itinerary !
• Our team has local guides who speak English or Chinese

Further reading:

How To Get From Penang Airport To Georgetown (4 Easy Ways)

• How To Get To Penang Island From Kuala Lumpur (KL)
• Best Way To Travel From Langkawi To Penang (All Methods + Cheap Option)

Boredom is out of the question with so many things to do in Penang at night! From sunset and right until after midnight!

The nightlife here is just as rich as its daytime persona. Don’t forget to check for any upcoming events and festivals too!

Other posts you might like:

• How To Get To Cameron Highlands From Penang (Step-by-Step Guide)
• Penang Itinerary 3 Days : How To Get The Most Out Of Your Penang Trip
• Penang Froghill (Hidden Gem) – It’s Absolutely Worth Going! (Ultimate Guide)
• 13 Best Beaches In Penang Besides Batu Ferringhi (#8 Is A Hidden Gem!)
• Where To Find Great Western Food In Penang

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Pubs and bars, 1. farquhar's bar.

Address: Eastern & Oriental Hotel, 10 Lebuh Farquhar Opening hours: Daily 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

2. Sand Bar at Hard Rock Hotel, Batu Ferringhi

Address: Hard Rock Hotel, Jalan Batu Ferringhi Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM 

3. Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant & Rooftop Bar

Address: 25A Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Penang Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday - 4:00 PM – 01:00 AM Friday, Saturday and the eve of public holidays - 4:00 PM – 02:00 AM Happy hours - 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

4. Narrow Marrow

Address: 252A Carnarvon Street Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – midnight

5. Magazine 63

Address: 63 Magazine Road Opening Hours: 8:00 PM - late night

6. SoHo Free House

Address: Jalan Penang, George Town Opening hours: Daily 12:00 PM - 3:00 AM

7. Bora Bora

Address: Lot 415, Batu Ferringhi Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday - 12:00 PM - 1:00 AM Friday to Saturday - 12:00 PM - 3:00 AM

8. Good Friends Club

Address: 39, Jalan Gurdwara Penang 10300 Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday to Thursday and Sunday - 7:00 PM - 1:00 AM Friday and Saturday - 7:00 PM - 2:00 AM

9. Patio bar de tapas

Address: 49F weld quay, Georgetown Penang Opening hours:  5:00 PM to 1:30 AM

Address: 10200, 414-416, Lebuh Chulia, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang Opening hours: 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Cafes and Bistros

11. sommelier restaurant & wine bistro.

Address: 2 Jalan Brown Road, Teluk Bahang, 10350

12. Brix (Bar & Bistro)

Address: Jalan Gottlieb, 11A-G-2 & 3 New Bob Centre, George Town, 10350

13. Gudang Cafe

Address: 5 Gat Lebuh Armenian Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

14. ChinaHouse

Address: 153 Beach Street Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Dance Clubs 

15. qeii penang.

Address: Tanjung City Marina, Church Street Pier, 8A, Pengkalan Weld Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 12: 00 AM (dining) and 12:00 AM – 03:00 PM nightclub

16. Slippery Senoritas

Address: Lot B3A, The Garage, Upper Penang Road, No 2, Jalan Penang Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 3:00 AM

17. Soju Room

Address: B2, Entertainment City, Times Square, Jalan Dato Keramat Opening Hours: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM Monday - Saturday

Live Music 

18. sound maker 2.0 .

Address: 18 Lebuh Bishop, 1st floor Opening Hours: 6:00 pm - Late night 

19. The Canteen at Chinahouse 

Address: 183 B Lebuh Victoria, George Town Opening Hours: 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM

20. Kim Haus

Address: 9 & 11 Campbell Street, 1st floor Opening Hours: 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM

Shopping (Night Markets) 

21. Batu Ferringhi 

Address: Jalan Pantai Batu, Taman Pantai Batu, 11200 Tanjong Bungah, Pulau Pinang Opening hours: Daily - 7:00 PM - 1:00 AM

22. Farlim Night Market

Address: 27-75, Medan Angsana, Bandar Baru Ayer Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang Opening hours: Wednesdays - 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM

23. Paya Terubong Night Market  

Address: 1228l, Jalan Paya Terubong, Bandar Baru Air Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang Opening hours: Sundays - 7:00 PM -10:30 PM

24. Nibong Tebal Sunday Night Market

Address: 14, Jalan Sungai Daun, Taman Nibong Tebal Jaya, 14300 Nibong Tebal, Pulau Pinang Opening hours: Sundays - 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

25. Pasar Malam Van Praagh

Address: Taman Continental, 11600 Jelutong, Penang, Malaysia Opening hours: Fridays - 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM

26. Sungai Dua Night Market

Address: 1, Jalan Sungai Dua, Sungai Dua, 13800 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Opening hours: Saturdays - 5:00 PM -10:00 PM

Small Local Lanes

Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – late

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How to spend a night in penang | amazing things to do.

Do you only have a night in Penang? Look no further, we have you covered with all the best things to do in Penang at night. Even if you have more time in Penang, you will probably find yourself wanting to do these things multiple times. This nighttime Penang itinerary covers everything from magical sunsets, the best drinking spots, and of course, where to get the most mouthwatering food.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

The best itinerary for a night in Penang

No matter how long you have in Penang, it’s an unmissable stop on a backpacking Malaysia itinerary . Penang is packed with unique places , a plethora of art, culture, delicious food, and buzzin’ nightlife. After a day of going on a street art hunt, or cycling the quaint old town on a tandem bike , it’s time to get yourself ready for an unforgettable evening. Without further ado, we will dive right into this 1 night in Penang itinerary.

Tuck into Wan Tan Mee

After a long day of exploration, make sure to fill your tummy and slurp away at a big bowl of Wan Tan Mee. Wan Tan Mee is an extremely popular dish that originated in China but has since become a sensation in Malaysia, Hong Kong , and Singapore . Different regions have different variations of the dish, but in Penang, you can typically expect the dish to consist of egg noodles, thin slices of pork (char siu) and wontons doused in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Finally, it’s garnished with chopped spring onions. Whilst you will find plenty of places with Wan Tan Mee on the menu, undoubtedly the most famous and popular place is the unnamed stall located on Chulia Street Night Hawker. With the crowds that surround it, it’s pretty hard to miss. We recommend you get there as early as possible for a seat!

Watch a magical sunset from Penang Hill

Head an hour outside of the backpacker hotspot of Penang to Penang Hill, where you will be met with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Pull on your hiking shoes and get ready for a magical sunset. To get to Penang Hill, head to George Town Jetty and board the 201 bus. The bus costs 2 ringgit ($0.47) and leaves every 30 minutes. The last bus is at 11:30 pm. Once you reach Penang Hill, you have the option of hiking to the top (for FREE) or taking the train. A standard return ticket for the train costs 30 ringgit ($7.08). Penang Hill boats 6 peaks and the highest stands at an impressive 833 meters above sea level, making for the best lookout of Penang mainland. Make sure to get there just in time for dusk for an unforgettable sunset experience.

Start the party at Drippin’ Dragon Hostel

After Penang Hill, head back to your accommodation to freshen up and start your night on the town. We fully recommend staying at Drippin’ Dragon Hostel , as not only is it a great bang for the buck, it’s one of the best places to start the party. We booked to stay here for 3 nights, but we felt super comfortable, and having the pool to dip into in the midday heat was a blessing. This hostel is one of the busiest in town and if you’re a guest here, make sure to take advantage of the cheap drinks from the bar by the pool.

Chug cheap beers at the “elbow” drinking spot

If you’re looking for cheap beers at a local watering hole, make sure to check out the “elbow”. It’s officially known as Antarabangsa Enterprise, but it gets its name from the bent elbow shape of the road that scatters the street with tiny plastic stools and tables. Similar to Beer Street in Hanoi , you will find locals, ex-pats, and backpackers alike clashing cheap cans of beer. At just 5 ringgit a can, you can easily have a frugal fun night out! The drinking spot is a little tucked away, so we recommend you check out the route on Google Maps. Just write in this address: 21 Lorong Stewart, George Town.

Continue the evening on Love Lane

If after a few drinks at Antarabangsa Enterprise, you’re still feeling the party vibe, head over to Love Lane. During the day, Love Lane is all about street art, but by night the street is lined with bars and shindigs. Just like when spending 2 days in Kuala Lumpur , you will want to experience the nightlife in Penang too. Antarabangsa Enterprise closes shop come midnight but the bars dotted along Love Lane are open until the early hours of the morning. With plenty of places to choose from, you’re sure to find a nice drinking spot to suit your vibe.

Treat your tastebuds to a late-night delight

After a night in the town, you may feel a bit peckish. Let’s face it…who doesn’t love a greasy burger at the end of the night? In such a case, make sure to call the Old Trafford burger van that is located on Chulia Street. Now, the burgers here are not just any ordinary burger, there is something deliciously addictive about them. So much so, it has been ingrained in Jake’s head since he first tried one in 2016. 4 years later, he couldn’t wait to get his hands on one again.

Finally, if you’re looking for a slightly healthier option, head further down the road on Chulia Street to the vegan falafel food cart, which is right outside the Reggae bar. The falafels here are so divine they are to die for! Choose between a falafel burger, wrap, or just on-the-plate falafels. No matter which food you choose to satisfy your taste buds, make sure to get there before the closing time of 2:30 am.

Essential Resources for Travelling Around Malaysia

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and has a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . Bookaway offers multiple forms of transport, from buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. The routes on offer are extensive and certainly cover most of the backpacker trails. Bookaway works a little like Skyscanner but for overland transport. You will find plenty of transport options from a range of companies. All you simply need to do is book online and receive your ticket by email. The email will contain essential information, such as where the bus leaves from and departure and arrival times.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

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Things to Do in Penang At Night | PARKROYAL Penang | Penang Holidays

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Penang Holidays: 21 Things to Do in Penang at Night -->

Wish to explore Penang after the sun has set? If you are a first-time visitor, you may be wondering where to go in Penang at night.

While Penang is relatively safe compared to other South-East Asian cities, we advise you to exercise the same precautions that you normally would, such as guarding your belongings. But rest assured that you can continue to enjoy sightseeing in Penang after dark.

For peace of mind when returning to your accommodation in the wee hours, choose a reputable hotel. PARKROYAL Penang Resort is situated along the Batu Ferringhi beach and within walking distance to a famed Penang night market—the Batu Ferringhi Night Market. It is also well-connected to Georgetown, where many Penang attractions are located.

What are the best things to do in Penang at night? In this article, the team at PARKROYAL Penang recommends:

• The best Penang night tours
• Free places to visit in Penang at night
• Where to eat and drink in Penang at night

Read on to find out more!  

1. The Best Penang Night Tours -->

If you’re in luck, you will be able to join a free night tour, organised by the Penang tourism bureau. These evening walks will introduce you to George Town, Penang’s capital, and its architectural and cultural gems. The walks are held once a month, on a Friday evening—usually the last Friday of the month. 

Depending on the theme of the evening, you may cover:

Old Chinatown and the Clan Jetties

Indian and Muslim heritage trails

British colonial legacies

Check the official Facebook page for updates on walking tours and other events. 

Prefer to hire a professional guide? Read reviews in advance to avoid providers that don’t stick to the promised itinerary, or deliver an altogether lacklustre experience at an exorbitant price. 

Unsurprisingly, some of the best-rated tours in food-obsessed Penang are culinary experiences, and you can book an evening tour with providers such as Delish Asia, Heritage on a Plate , and Food Tour Penang. To get the most out of your tour, ask ahead about the foods you’ll get to sample—make sure it’s enough food for your dinner needs, and don’t forget to check on spice levels!

If you fancy some ethereal excitement, and don’t mind getting the chills, the Penang Ghost Tours will send delightful shivers down your spine. Together with a paranormal expert, you can explore the historic George Town’s spookiest locations after dark, or head to the Penang War Museum, a preserved 1930s fortress that sits on Penang’s Bukit Hantu (“ghost hill” in Malay). The museum is so scare-worthy that it has been featured on the National Geographic documentary titled “I Wouldn’t Go In There,” which you can watch to prepare for your tour. 

Buy tickets to Delish Asia Buy tickets to Heritage on a Plate Buy tickets to Food Tour Penang Buy tickets to Penang Ghost Tours

2. Free Places to Visit in Penang at Night -->

If you are a guest at PARKROYAL Penang Resort , Penang’s biggest night market ( Batu Ferringhi ) is two minutes away. Open from 7.00pm to past midnight, this is where you’ll find clothes, local collectibles, food, and everything you would expect of a bustling night market. However, this is a true-blue tourist spot, so be prepared to haggle.

The Penang tourism bureau also recommends the Macallum Street Night Market (cheaper than Batu Ferringhi), and the Tanjung Bungah Market (a smaller-scale market open only on Tuesday nights).   

For a lovely sunset view of George Town, visit Penang Hill at night. Penang Hill is actually a cluster of hills, with the highest peak registering at 833 metres above sea level. Formerly a retreat site during the British colonial period, it is today one of the state’s most popular tourist attractions. 

The top of the hill is accessible via the Penang Hill funicular railway , from its base station at Jalan Bukit Bendera, Ayer Itam. The last train descends from the peak at 11.00 pm, so you could enjoy a drink and some “live” music at Sky Terrace on the hill—the “highest” bar in Penang.

To get on the Penang heritage trail, head for the Clan Jetties. These are Chinese waterfront villages, and they were set up by Penang’s immigrants from China’s Fujian province back in the 19th century. 

Today, the jetties that remain have been accorded Unesco World Heritage status, and the largest of them is the Chew Jetty , which consists of 75 stilt houses, several temples, and other remnants of traditional living, all connected by wooden walkways. Although it attracts many visitors during the day, you can also visit in the evening (till about 9.00pm) for a cooler and less crowded experience. To avoid tourist traps entirely, skip the Chew Jetty in favour of the lesser-known Lee Jetty.

Get directions to Batu Ferringhi Night Market Get directions to Macallum Street Night Market Get directions to Tanjung Bungah Market Get directions to Penang Hill Get directions to Sky Terrace Get directions to Chew Jetty Get directions to Lee Jetty

3. Where to Eat and Drink in Penang at Night -->

Guests at PARKROYAL Penang Resort (who are also Pan Pacific DISCOVERY members): you may redeem our Seaside Wine & Dine experience for two, where a chef will prepare your meal as you enjoy a breathtaking beach sunset view. Not a member yet? Sign up today , it’s free!

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Join Pan Pacific DISCOVERY and instantly receive Gold status as you begin your journey. Enjoy complimentary upgrade and late check-out privilege when you book direct (subject to availability).

For the best hawker food in Penang, head to Chulia Street , where hawkers set up push-cart stalls in the evening till about midnight. Put these on your must-try list: assam laksa (spicy noodle soup), popiah (spring roll), and Hokkien mee (fried noodles). 

To have the best Halal food in Penang at night, choose from long-running 24-hour eateries such as Restoran Kapitan , Restoran Deen Nasi Kandar , and Restoran Kassim Mustafa . The popular Gurney Drive Hawker Centre also operates till late, and it has a section of Halal stalls. 

Looking to beat the heat? Find a late-night cafe to chill in. Popular cafes such as ChinaHouse , Norm , and Narrow Marrow stay open past midnight.

To grab a drink in one of Penang’s top nightspots, stop at any of TimeOut’s recommendations : Mish Mash (cocktails), Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant and Rooftop Bar (best view), and The Canteen at ChinaHouse (“live” music).    

Get directions to Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls Get directions to Gurney Drive Hawker Centre Get directions to Restoran Kapitan Get directions to Restoran Kassim Mustafa Get directions to ChinaHouse Get directions to Norm Get directions to Narrow Marrow Get directions to Mish Mash Get directions to Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant and Rooftop Bar Get directions to The Canteen at ChinaHouse  

Need help to plan your Penang holidays? Check out the accommodation offers at PARKROYAL Penang Resort , and bookmark our Destination Insights for more itinerary ideas. Or simply get in touch with our friendly team for assistance! 

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Join Pan Pacific DISCOVERY and unlock a wealth of benefits, with or without a stay. Enjoy exclusive member rates, specially curated Local Offers and Experiences, and access to our rewards currency, DISCOVERY Dollars (D$).

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Explore Penang's Baba & Nyonya Culture

5 Unique Museums to Visit in Penang

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Penang Nightlife-25 Epic Things To Do![2023]

By: Author Aisha Preece

Are you planning to hit the Penang nightlife scene but aren’t quite sure where to start?

Well, you’ve come to the right place! 

The nightlife in Penang is diverse, so you don’t have to travel far. Almost every nightlife spot in Penang is close to another so you don’t have to worry about moving about too much. 

Come along with me as we explore the best things to do in Penang at night and let your inner nocturnal explorer wander!

25 Penang Nightlife Activities 

• Komtar Rainbow Skywalk
• Take A Sunset Cruise
• Dining Atop Penang Hill
• Lights At Kek Lok Si Temple (During Chinese New Year)
• An Evening Stroll At Clan Jetties
• Find Avatar Secret Garden
• Music At China House Penang
• Gurney Drive Food Court
• Chulia Street Hawker Stalls
• Ferringhi Shopping Spree
• Dinner At Ferringhi Garden
• Night Trishaw Ride
• Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour 
• Drinks At The Soho Free House
• Cocktails at Farquhar’s Bar
• Fine Dining At Blue Mansion
• Live Music At Hard Rock Cafe Penang
• Live Music At Sound Maker 2.0 
• Dance At Soju Room
• Happy Hour At Javana Lounge
• Evening Stroll At Monkey Beach
• Chill At Penang’s Hidden Bars
• Explore Penang Night Markets
• Dining At Narrow Marrow Hipster Cafe
• Beachside Bar Bora Bora 

Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

• Need safe and reliable transport to your accomodation? Book a private transfer here
• Feast your senses on the sights and smells of George Town on a half-day culinary tour, ideal for food lovers with limited time in Penang
• Or you can eat like a local, feel like a local with this street food tour
• You can escape to the countryside of Penang without the risk of getting lost on the way out of George Town on this action-packed half-day cycling tour
• Or you can avoid canned tours with itineraries that are set in stone with t his customizable highlights tour of Penang . You can pick 7 attractions of your choice!

1. Get Started With The Komtar Rainbow Skywalk

The Komtar Rainbow Skywalk and Observatory Deck offer a bird’s-eye view of George Town.

After climbing 820 feet ( 250 meters ) to the glass cantilever bridge atop Penang’s tallest skyscraper, you will enjoy the panoramic views surrounding suburbs and landscapes for a great start to your Penang nightlife experience.

Grab a cocktail and some tapas at the Coco Cabana Bar & Bistro while listening to the music of a hanging orchestra.

2. Take A Sunset Walk

Take a sunset walk from Penang National Park which is home to over 1000 hectares of forests and wetlands.

You can also explore these natural treasures and experience the diversity of the park’s vegetation and fauna up close. 

There is still enough natural light, leaving room for plenty of photo opportunities. On the way back, prepare to be mesmerized by the sight of the sunset. 

3. Dine Atop Penang Hill

Dine atop Penang Hill where a funicular train will transport you up Penang Hill on for your evening meal. As you travel up the Penang Hill Railway in George Town, you will be greeted with spectacular views of the city.

The tour generally lasts for about 3 hours .

It includes a hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an expert guide, in addition to the train ride and dinner. If you are in Penang with your special someone, it’s a one-of-a-kind date night activity. 

Related Posts:

• An Epic Culinary Guide To Bentong Food
• 7 Penang Cafes You Can’t Miss Out On in Malaysia
• 28 Penang Street Food That Will Rock Your Taste Buds!
• 10 Famous Food In Kelantan: A Local’s Unique Guide
• Best Nyonya Food in Melaka
• 27 Food In Penang [Mouthwatering and Tested Personally!]

4. Check Out The Lights At Kek Lok Si Temple (During Chinese New Year)

The lights at the Kek Lok Si Temple are beautifully-lit at night as the native devotees are called to their prayers.

Sometimes referred to as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, this 10-acre establishment’s most well-liked attraction is that of the temple of Rama VI. The temple houses over 10,000 Buddha sculptures made up of alabaster and bronze. 

There is also the 99-foot-tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the goddess of Mercy . 

Admission to the temple is free with a series of popular night activities in Penang such as food stalls and activities around the temple area. 

5. Take An Evening Stroll At Clan Jetties

The Clan Jetties of Penang is an ancient settlement by Chinese immigrants who came to Malaysia. There are 6 village houses with distinct Chinese clans, the Chew clan being the most tourist-friendly and famous.

Also referred to as floating villages, the clan jetties showcase the harmony of 2 completely different lifestyles and cultures.

They are characterized by their previous traditions and are engineered with a special sort of wood that permits them to remain close to seawater. 

The clan jetties that you will find in this picturesque areas are:

• Ong Clan Jetty Penang 
• Commission building
• Lim Clan Jetty Penang 
• Chew Clan Jetty Penang 
• Tan Clan Jetty Penang 
• Lee Clan Jetty Penang 
• New Clan Jetty Penang 
• Yeoh Clan Jetty Penang 
• Peng Aun Jetty Penang 

6. Explore The Avatar Secret Garden

The Avatar Secret Garden has a serene and rocky seashore. Indulge in a relaxing stroll among the statues and as the final rays of daylight hours flip to darkness, you will notice flares of pink and blue as the LED lighting fixtures flicker onto the sea.

It is truly a sight to behold and very much resembles the sacred spirit tree , Eywa in the movie Avatar.

7. Check Out The Music At China House Penang

China House Penang has a cute corner with one of the foremost celebrated Western-styled eating houses in the city. This place is pretty common with the younger crowd. 

This restaurant serves tasty and delicious meals with an assortment of flavors. You will also find a wide array of signature cakes with unique flavors. 

China House also hosts plenty of art and photography exhibitions and they frequently organize several live music and jam sessions.

If you are looking for a laidback ambiance, to enjoy a good cup of coffee and get lost in a book, then this is definitely the place to do it!

8. Have A Meal At The Gurney Drive Food Court

The Gurney Drive Food Court is a promenade styled on the waterfront in George Town, Penang. If you’re on the hunt for Penang food at it’s finest, then this is the place to embark on your gastronomic adventure!

This heritage row has been listed by the Penang Club as the world’s 25 best streets to be visited. So you can’t miss it! 

9. Explore Chulia Street 

Chulia Street was built especially for budget travelers.

Here you will find a range of cheap hostels and guesthouses, as well as businesses like laundromats, restaurants, bars, and travel agencies. You will also have the opportunity to explore the famous Chulia Street hawker stalls!

There are 12-24 restaurants serving a variety of western and local food such as wonton noodles, popiah, Hokkien mee, curry noodles . You are bound to find something that tickles your taste buds – in the best possible way!

10. Indulge In A Ferringhi Shopping Spree

Batu Ferringhi is a wonderful place for night shopping, especially at its vivacious night market from 7:00 pm to 12:00 a.m.  

Various stalls take over the road and locals and tourists begin flocking in to do some shopping.

The price of things may vary from USD 1.00 – 5.00 , and you should use your skills in bargaining for cheaper rates. The stores provide a variety of things including  CDs, DVDs, artwork, clothes, bags, shoes, and souvenirs. 

11. Have Dinner At Ferringhi Garden

Ferringhi Garden is truly a hidden gem in Penang with its romantic lush ambiance and stunning gardens.

The mini water and koi lake have a tranquil effect with various types of flowering potted plants that extends from the entrance all the way into the back of the restaurant.

This is the perfect place for a date night with your special someone!

12. Go On A Night Trishaw Ride

Trishaw rides in Penang come alive when the sun goes down. It is splendid way to see the city center because the cool weather allows you to really make the most of the sights in a comfortable fashion. 

It’s definitely a relaxing way to see the island. If you feel like the night is still young, you can also go on a walk along Armenian Street to get yourself some supper or yummy desserts. 

13. Go On The Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour  

The Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour is essentially a Vespa excursion in Penang. The tour takes you to nearby meals streets and markets. 

You will embark on a chauffeur-driven journey in antique Vespas to discover and revel in the sounds and tastes of Penang through slim alleys and nearby restaurants for meals and then finish your tour at a nearby pub or speakeasy or your hotel.

14. Have Drinks At The Soho Free House

Here is where they hold live performances and it is located in the heart of Penang’s nightlife. SoHo Free House earned its reputation with its slogan  “Happy Hour, Every Hour, Everyday”. 

The pub has an interior that gives it an English pub feel and the place also serves good real ales. As the nightlife in Penang unfolds, the music gets louder and the DJ puts on wonderful beats that you can dance to.

15. Have Cocktails At Farquhar’s Bar

Farquhar’s Bar is situated at Upper Penang Road at the center of George Town. Farquhar’s Bar is an upscale bar that serves some of the best food and drinks at relatively affordable prices. 

The bar has its colonial-fashion decor and a first-rated beer collection, as well as delicious cocktails. If alcohol is not your thing, you will be happy to learn that they also serve non-alcoholic beverages.

It is a great alternative for date night  or a scrumptious pub dinner to seal your nightlife in Penang.

16. Fine Dining At Blue Mansion

The Blue Mansion is situated in Georgetown and has stunning architecture that is truly worth it to take the time and explore. Inside, you will find the Indigo Restaurant , renowned for its fine cuisine.

The restaurant stays open until 10 p.m. There is also a super cool cocktail bar where you can relax and wind down from the adventures of the day. 

The menu is primarily French and European. The food is well-presented and delicious. And you will be treated to simply impeccable service. 

One of their more popular dishes is the rack of lamb served with crunchy vegetables and au gratin potatoes. The asparagus soup also comes highly recommended. 

If you feel like spoiling the special someone in your life, or hey – you can even spoil yourself – this is one place you should definitely check out. 

17. Listen To Live Music At Hard Rock Cafe Penang

The Hard Rock Cafe Penang at night has plenty of activity and a cozy ambiance. The main attraction is the live music and the cover bands are excellent. Often, you can even find international stars singing their numbers on location. 

You will find that the menu here is jam-packed with American dishes like onion rings and burgers, served in generous portions. For dessert, the apple cobbler comes highly recommended, with its  magical combination of pie crust, walnuts, and caramel sauce.

18. Listen To Live Music At Sound Maker 2.0

Sound Maker 2.0 has routine gigs where they host underground music. From heavy metal to hardcore punk, hip-hop to pop, and rock to reggae, you are sure to find something that gels with your desired Penang nightlife scene.

The atmosphere of the place is elegant and you will be surrounded by artwork that is based on musical themes. You will also be thrilled to learn that you can enjoy stunning views of the sea while you are here. Keep an eye out for well-known local musicians like Cole Yew and try your hand at electrical or acoustic improvisations if you are wondering what to do in Penang at night

19. Dance At Soju Room

The Soju Room is an electrifying party club which is ideal for those who enjoy electronic music. It is located in the basement of Penang Times Square . 

The loud music and people doing drink tours, while swaying to the electronic beats, is just the tip of the iceberg when dealing with Penang’s vibrant nightlife. The neon-lit dance floors with flashing disco lights add to the rave vibe and will definitely get you grooving on the dance floor!

20. Enjoy Happy Hour At Javana Lounge

Javana Lounge opens at 11:00 am. And we all know the thrill that comes with day-drinking! 🙂 

However, it definitely becomes a little more crowded as the sun sets. Located at the ground floor of the Penang Park Royal Hotel , this quaint little nightspot’s decor is inspired by Bali.

You will find the most delicious Mojitos, Long Island Iced Teas, and Wild Orchids. They also serve meals and snacks. 

If music is more your thing, you will be pleased to learn that they have live performances for you to really relax and unwind. 

21. Take An Evening Stroll At Monkey Beach

Monkey Beach is where tourists generally go for day trips. But all the magic here happens after dark. To have an absolutely stunning experience of swimming with glowing plankton and a  firefly show in the jungle, you must stay overnight here. 

You can do this at the  Lazy Boys Camp Site , which is perfect for backpackers who are traveling on a budget and looking for the ultimate beach to experience nightlife in Penang Malaysia.

22. Chill At Penang’s Hidden Bars

You will find that Penang has many hidden bars and speakeasies scattered all over. If you’re looking to check out the Penang clubbing night out scene, you will certainly be spoilt for choice. 

These are perfect places to chill out with your friends and unwind from the day or week. 

23. Explore Penang Night Markets

Penang has a thriving night market scene and anyone who has been to the island will testify that one can find a variety of items at low prices. These markets are usually held weekly, bi-weekly, quarterly, or daily. So you may want to keep an eye out while you’re there! 

Tourists can buy good souvenirs in these markets and also learn about local life in these markets.

More importantly, there are plenty of food stalls which gives you the chance to sample local cuisine at affordable prices.

24. Dine At Narrow Marrow Hipster Cafe

The Narrow Marrow Hipster Cafe is a rustic cafe that is well-loved among the artists and hipsters of Penang. This cafe is essentially a narrow bar, serving some exquisite fusion dishes and delicious cakes.

This is a wonderful  choice to hang out with friends in Penang because of its affordable prices and variety of dishes.

They also occasionally organize DJ nights, tiny gigs, and film screenings so be sure to keep a lookout for these special events if you’re thinking of going there. 

25. Explore Bar Bora Bora  

Bar Bora Bora is a place that combines delicious food and drinks with a beach bar. Who could ask for more?

You can start off with a relaxing dinner and spend the nights on the beach, sipping on colorful cocktails and enjoying a delicious barbecue. 

Tiger Beer is the bestseller here and a must-try for beer lovers. They also have happy hour every day from 4:00 p.m . to 7:00 p.m . 

What Are The Places To Visit Penang At Night ?

Penang, with its vibrant nightlife scene and unique nighttime destinations, is an exciting place to visit. This bustling hub of delicious food and cultural delights undoubtedly is a destination worth discovering and staying awake for.

Some places that you can visit in Penang at night include:

• Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour  

Is There A Red Light District In Penang?

Cintra Street, which is a narrow street near George Town’s Unesco World Heritage Site , has gained a seedy reputation over the years and has become known as the red-light district of Penang. This is even though the origins of the street’s name is actually related to the Eurasian community on Penang Island. 

Is Penang A Good Place To Live?

Penang Island is a good place to live  in as it is one of the best islands in the world to retire on . It is a carefree sunny beach community with a wealth of cultural attractions and festivals. And of course, we can’t forget the variety of local hawker food! 

Can You Swim In Penang Beach?

Penang is surrounded by dense forest and has public and private beaches with fine white sand and cool waters. It is great for a picnic with barbecue and fishing. The water isn’t always fit for swimming because of the presence of jellyfish. So do keep a lookout if you are planning to go into the water!

How Many Days In Penang Is Enough?

Spending at least three days in Penang is almost obligatory. Although the bustling Malaysia capital of Kuala Lumpur is the perfect place for a quick stopover, launching a Penang itinerary is where you’ll really start to love this often overshadowed Southeast Asian country.

Related Posts :

• Frog Hill Penang [A 2022 Unique Guide]
• 23 High Tea In Penang Spots In 2022
• 28 Of The Best Must Eat Food In Penang And Where To Find Them
• Malaysia Short Getaway : 21 Places To Explore
• 19 Best Places To Visit In Penang At Night: A Comprehensive Guide
• 15 Best Things To Buy In Penang [Your 2022 Ultimate Guide ]
• The Perfect Penang Day Trip [2022 Ultimate Guide]

Conclusion 

With so many things to do in Penang, it is almost impossible to be bored. There is a thriving Penang nightlife just as there is during the day with the fun continuing till the early hours of the morning.

Make sure you keep an eye for any upcoming events and festivals.

Penang, with an atmosphere as lively as Kuala Lumpur, promises no dull moments. So leave your heritage hotel or vacation rental and feel the good vibes rise as you explore these Penang attractions at night. 

Along the way, you will gain a better understanding of the rich culture and meet new people and explore the best nightlife in Penang.

The ultimate guide to Penang’s nightlife scene

Penang is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious food. But what many people don’t know is that Penang also has a vibrant nightlife scene that is worth exploring. From night markets to live music venues to trendy bars and clubs, there is something for everyone in Penang’s nightlife scene.

In this ultimate guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to have a great night out in Penang. We’ll cover the best bars, clubs, and lounges for different types of experiences, as well as alternative nightlife options and late-night food spots. We’ll also give you tips for navigating night markets and staying safe while enjoying Penang’s nightlife.

So whether you’re a local looking for a new spot to hang out, or a visitor wanting to experience Penang’s nightlife scene, this guide has got you covered.

Penang’s nightlife scene

Penang is a vibrant, multicultural city that offers a diverse range of nightlife experiences. From night markets and street food stalls to upscale clubs and lounges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of Penang’s nightlife scene is its night markets, which are a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. These markets offer a wide variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs, and are a great place to experience the local culture.

For those looking for a more upscale experience, Penang has a number of high-end clubs and lounges that offer bottle service and VIP options. These venues often feature internationally renowned DJs and offer a more exclusive atmosphere.

If you’re a fan of live music, Penang has a thriving music scene with a variety of venues that cater to different genres of music. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, or electronic music, you’re sure to find a venue that suits your taste.

Overall, Penang’s nightlife scene is one of the city’s biggest draws, and whether you’re looking for a wild night out or a more laid-back experience, you’re sure to find something that meets your needs.

Best night markets for food and drinks

Penang is famous for its night markets, or pasar malams, which come alive after sunset with street food, shopping, and entertainment. Here are some of the best night markets for food and drinks:

• Batu Ferringhi Night Market : This market is located near the beach and offers a wide variety of street food, including grilled seafood, satay, and fried noodles. You can also find souvenirs and clothing here.
• Chowrasta Market : Located in the heart of George Town, this market offers a mix of food, fresh produce, and souvenirs. Try the local hawker food and don’t miss out on the famous Penang white curry mee.
• Pulau Tikus Night Market: This market is known for its Chinese street food, such as oyster omelets and stinky tofu. You can also find clothing, accessories, and household items here.
• Tanjung Bungah Night Market: This market offers a variety of food, including Indian and Malay cuisine, as well as clothing, toys, and accessories.
• Taman Connaught Night Market: This market is located in mainland Penang and is one of the largest night markets in Malaysia. It offers a wide range of food, including Chinese, Malay, and Indian dishes, as well as clothing and accessories.

Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fun night out, Penang’s night markets are not to be missed!

Tips for navigating night markets

Navigating a night market in Penang can be overwhelming, with so many food and drink stalls, as well as vendors selling souvenirs and trinkets. Here are some tips to make the most of your night market experience:

• Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing.
• Bring cash: Most vendors at the night markets only accept cash, so make sure you have enough on hand. Some may accept credit cards, but it’s best to have cash just in case.
• Bargain: Don’t be afraid to haggle with vendors over the price of goods. It’s common practice at night markets in Penang, and you may be able to score a better deal.
• Try the local food: Night markets are the perfect place to try local street food. Look out for popular dishes like char kway teow, laksa, and satay.
• Be mindful of hygiene: Make sure to wash your hands before eating and avoid food that looks like it’s been sitting out for a while.
• Stay alert: Night markets can get crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
• Enjoy the atmosphere: Night markets in Penang are more than just a place to shop and eat – they’re a vibrant part of the city’s culture. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Bars and Pubs

If you’re looking for a more relaxed nightlife experience, Penang has plenty of great bars and pubs to choose from. Penang’s bar and pub scene is vibrant and diverse, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. From cozy neighborhood pubs to trendy rooftop bars, there’s something for everyone.

The island’s colonial heritage is reflected in many of its bars, which offer a laid-back atmosphere and a range of beers, wines, and spirits. You’ll also find plenty of modern bars and gastropubs, serving up craft beers, inventive cocktails, and delicious food.

Many of Penang’s bars and pubs are located in the tourist hotspots of Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi. However, there are also plenty of hidden gems tucked away in quieter neighborhoods, waiting to be discovered.

Best bars and pubs for different types of experiences

For a laid-back vibe:.

• The Canteen at China House : This cozy bar is located in a historic building and features live music, a wide range of cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Gurney Drive Hawker Centre : While technically not a bar, this hawker center is a great spot to grab a beer and some local street food while enjoying views of the sea.
• BeerBQ Bistro : This outdoor beer garden offers a great selection of craft beers and tasty barbecue dishes.

For a rooftop experience:

• Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant & Rooftop Bar : This rooftop bar offers 360-degree views of Georgetown and Penang Bridge, making it a popular spot for sunset drinks.
• Gravity Rooftop Bar : Located on the rooftop of G Hotel Gurney, this bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and a sophisticated atmosphere.

For a unique experience:

• The Safe Room : This speakeasy-style bar is hidden behind a bookshelf and requires a secret code to enter. Inside, you’ll find a cozy atmosphere and a wide range of cocktails.
• The Library : Another speakeasy-style bar, The Library is located in a historic building and features a wide range of cocktails and live music.
• The Beer Factory Summerton : This bar is known for its unique self-serve beer taps, where customers can pour their own beers and pay by the milliliter.

For a party atmosphere:

• SOHO Free House : This trendy bar features live music, a dance floor, and a wide range of cocktails and beers.
• Reggae Mansion : This hostel and bar offers a party atmosphere with live music and DJs, as well as a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
• The Press : This underground bar is known for its lively atmosphere and wide range of craft beers, as well as its weekly trivia nights.

No matter what type of bar or pub experience you’re looking for, Penang has something to offer. Just be sure to drink responsibly and enjoy your night out!

Clubs and Lounges

If you’re looking for a night of dancing and partying, Penang has plenty of clubs and lounges to choose from. Whether you prefer mainstream music or underground beats, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. One of the most popular clubs in Penang is Soju Room, located in the heart of Georgetown. This club regularly hosts international DJs and features a spacious dance floor, VIP area, and bottle service options. Another great option is Gravity Club, which offers a mix of commercial and electronic music and has a stunning rooftop bar with views of the city. The club also features regular events such as Ladies Night and Hip Hop Night. For a more laid-back atmosphere, check out Penang’s lounge scene. Many of the city’s top hotels have their own lounges, which often offer live music and creative cocktails. The Living Room at Macalister Mansion is known for its intimate setting and unique decor, while Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant & Rooftop Bar offers 360-degree views of the city skyline.

Located in the heart of Georgetown, Gravity is a popular nightclub that attracts a diverse crowd. The club features a spacious dance floor, state-of-the-art sound system, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. Gravity plays a mix of electronic dance music, hip-hop, and R&B. The dress code is smart casual, so dress to impress if you plan on visiting.

If you’re a fan of Korean pop music, Soju Room is the place to be. The club features a K-Pop themed interior and plays a mix of K-Pop, EDM, and hip-hop. Soju Room also offers bottle service and VIP tables for a more exclusive experience. The club is open until late, so you can dance the night away.

ThreeSixty Rooftop Bar

If you’re in the mood for a more laid-back atmosphere, ThreeSixty Rooftop Bar is the perfect spot. The bar offers stunning views of the city and plays a mix of chill-out music, perfect for relaxing with a cocktail in hand. ThreeSixty also serves a variety of food, so you can grab a bite while enjoying the view.

China House

China House is a unique venue that combines a café, bar, and art gallery. The venue features multiple rooms, each with its own unique atmosphere and music genre. China House also hosts live music performances, so be sure to check their schedule for upcoming events. The venue is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so it’s worth checking out.

Bottle service and VIP options

If you’re looking for a more exclusive and luxurious experience, many of the clubs and lounges in Penang offer bottle service and VIP options. These packages typically include a reserved table or area, a dedicated server, and a selection of premium bottles and mixers. Prices vary depending on the venue and the specific package, but expect to pay several hundred ringgit for a night of VIP treatment.

Some of the top venues for bottle service and VIP experiences include:

• Gravity Club : This high-end club in G Hotel offers a range of VIP packages, including the “Champagne Room” with a private bar and DJ booth.
• Arte Bar : Located in George Town, Arte Bar is known for its stylish decor and VIP bottle service.

Keep in mind that bottle service and VIP options can be pricey, so it’s important to plan ahead and budget accordingly. If you’re traveling with a group, consider splitting the cost to make the experience more affordable.

Live Music Venues

Penang is home to several live music venues that offer a range of genres and styles. Here are some of the best places to catch live music in Penang:

• The Canteen at ChinaHouse – This popular restaurant and bar is known for its live music performances in the evenings. The Canteen hosts a range of local and international acts, playing everything from jazz to indie rock.
• The Safe Room – Tucked away in an unassuming alley, The Safe Room is a speakeasy-style bar that hosts live music performances on most nights. The intimate setting and eclectic lineup make it a favorite among music lovers.
• The Alley – This trendy bar in George Town features a spacious outdoor area and a stage for live music performances. From indie bands to acoustic solo acts, The Alley offers a diverse range of music.
• Soundmaker Studio – A recording studio by day and a live music venue by night, Soundmaker Studio is a unique space that hosts local bands and musicians. The intimate setting and excellent sound system make it a must-visit for music enthusiasts.

To find out more about upcoming live music performances in Penang, check out local event listings or ask locals for recommendations.

Best venues for different genres of music

Penang’s nightlife scene offers a variety of music genres to cater to all tastes. Here are some of the best venues for different genres of music:

EDM and techno

• SOJU Room – Another popular club for EDM and techno fans, SOJU Room has a vibrant atmosphere and often hosts international DJs.
• China House – This cafe and bar is a great spot for jazz lovers, with live performances by local and international jazz artists.
• The Canteen at China House – This unique venue is a combination of a bar, cafe, and art gallery. It also offers live performances by local rock bands.
• Soundmaker Studio – A recording studio by day and a live music venue by night, Soundmaker Studio is a great spot for rock music lovers.

Hip-hop and R&B

• Gravity Club – This club is a popular destination for hip-hop and R&B fans, with local and international DJs playing a mix of new and classic hits.

Shows and events

Penang has a thriving arts and culture scene, which means there’s always something exciting happening. Here are some upcoming shows and events to look out for:

Penang Island Jazz Festival

This annual festival brings together jazz musicians from all over the world for a weekend of music, workshops, and jam sessions. The festival usually takes place in December and attracts thousands of visitors.

George Town Literary Festival

This festival celebrates the written word with readings, workshops, and discussions featuring both local and international authors. It usually takes place in November and is a must-visit for book lovers.

George Town Festival

Running annually from August to September, the George Town Festival showcases a range of arts and cultural events, from theatre and dance to music and visual arts. Keep an eye out for the calendar of events, as there’s always something interesting going on.

Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, the Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is definitely worth checking out. Held in February, this event features hot air balloon rides, balloon displays, and other family-friendly activities.

Thaipusam is a Hindu festival that takes place in January or February and involves colourful processions and rituals. The festival is celebrated in several locations across Penang, but the most impressive is at the Waterfall Hill Temple in Penang Island.

These are just a few of the many events happening in Penang throughout the year. Be sure to check local listings and event calendars to stay up-to-date with what’s on.

Alternative Nightlife Options

If you’re looking for a unique and offbeat nightlife experience in Penang, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some suggestions:

Escape Room

Challenge your problem-solving skills and have a thrilling time at one of Penang’s escape rooms. These rooms require teamwork and quick thinking to solve puzzles and escape before time runs out.

Virtual Reality Gaming

Step into a new world and experience gaming like never before at one of Penang’s virtual reality arcades. These arcades offer a wide range of games and experiences that will leave you amazed.

Penang Ghost Museum

If you’re feeling brave, visit the Penang Ghost Museum for a spooky and eerie experience. The museum houses a collection of haunted artifacts and offers interactive exhibits that will send shivers down your spine.

Penang Avatar Secret Garden

Explore a magical world of lights and colours at the Penang Avatar Secret Garden. This illuminated garden features a variety of attractions and photo opportunities that are sure to dazzle and delight.

These are just a few of the many unique and offbeat nightlife options available in Penang. Be sure to do your research and find the perfect experience for you!

Here are some of our favourites:

1. Hin Bus Depot

This former bus depot has been transformed into an artsy, hipster hangout spot. On weekends, it hosts a bustling night market featuring food, drinks, and local vendors selling handmade crafts and artwork. There’s also a bar and live music performances on some nights.

2. The Canteen at ChinaHouse

ChinaHouse is a popular cafe and art gallery during the day, but at night, head to its back alley to find The Canteen. This outdoor bar area is decorated with colorful lanterns and serves up creative cocktails and craft beer. It’s a great spot for a chill night out.

3. The Secret Door

This hidden speakeasy-style bar is located behind a bookshelf in a shop called Behind 50. The entrance is easy to miss, but once you find it, you’ll be rewarded with a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails.

4. Dark Mansion

If you’re in the mood for something spooky, check out Dark Mansion. This interactive museum is filled with optical illusions and 3D art, and transforms into a haunted house at night. It’s not for the faint of heart, but definitely a unique experience.

5. The Camera Museum

While not strictly a nightlife option, The Camera Museum hosts occasional after-hours events and workshops that are worth checking out. Plus, its quirky exhibits and vintage camera collection make for an interesting visit any time of day.

These are just a few examples of the many alternative nightlife options in Penang. Don’t be afraid to explore and try something new!

Best places for karaoke, arcade games, and more

If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends that involves some friendly competition, Penang has plenty of options for you. Here are some of the best places to go for karaoke, arcade games, and more:

• Red Box Karaoke – Located in Gurney Plaza, this karaoke spot offers private rooms for you and your friends to sing your hearts out. They have a large selection of English, Chinese, and Malay songs to choose from.
• SOHO Free House – This bar in Tanjung Tokong has a great selection of craft beers and ciders, and also offers darts and pool tables for some friendly competition.
• Timezone – Located in Queensbay Mall, Timezone is a classic arcade that offers a wide variety of games, from racing games to claw machines. You can also redeem your tickets for prizes.

Late-night food options

After a long night of partying, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, Penang has plenty of options for satisfying late-night cravings.

One popular spot is Jalan Penang, where you can find a variety of street food vendors serving up local favourites like char kway teow and satay. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, making it a great place to grab a bite and people-watch.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, head to Gurney Drive Hawker Center. This food court is open until late and offers a wide range of dishes, from seafood to noodle soups.

For a taste of Penang’s famous nasi kandar, head to Line Clear. This restaurant has been serving up the classic dish for over 70 years and is open 24 hours a day.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, check out the mamak stalls in Little India. Here you can find delicious desserts like roti canai and ais kacang.

Safety Tips

Penang is generally a safe place to enjoy the nightlife, but it’s always important to take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable evening. Here are some general safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and only take the essentials with you.
• Stick to well-lit and populated areas and avoid walking alone at night.
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers and keep an eye on your own drinks.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and try to use them during the day or in well-lit areas.
• If you’re driving, avoid leaving valuables in the car and park in well-lit areas.

By following these general safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable night out in Penang’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Final tips for enjoying a night out in Penang

Now that we’ve covered all the different aspects of Penang’s nightlife scene, here are some final recommendations and tips to ensure you have the best possible experience:

• Plan ahead: Do your research and make a plan for the night ahead of time. This will help you avoid aimlessly wandering around and potentially missing out on some great spots.
• Stay safe: Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you. It’s also a good idea to avoid walking alone at night.
• Dress appropriately: Many of the clubs and lounges have dress codes, so make sure you check ahead of time and dress accordingly.
• Try something new: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. You might discover a new favourite spot!
• Make friends: Penang locals are known for being friendly and welcoming, so don’t be shy to strike up a conversation and make some new friends.
• Be respectful: Remember to be respectful of the local culture and customs when enjoying Penang’s nightlife scene.

Penang’s nightlife scene offers a diverse range of experiences for locals and tourists alike. Whether you prefer to dance the night away at a club, relax with a drink at a cozy bar, or explore the local night markets, there is something for everyone.

Don’t forget to take advantage of happy hour deals and specials, and keep safety in mind when enjoying Penang’s nightlife. Navigating the night markets can be overwhelming, so follow our tips to make the most of your experience.

For a unique and offbeat nightlife experience, check out some of Penang’s alternative options like karaoke bars and arcade games. And for live music enthusiasts, there are plenty of venues to discover, each with their own distinct atmosphere and genre of music.

Overall, Penang’s nightlife scene is a must-see for anyone visiting Malaysia. So grab your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready for a night out you won’t forget!

Note : Some of the info here are derived from AI. As such it may not be 100% accurate but it is always a good idea to do your own due diligence.

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Where to go in penang at night.

The best things to do after dinner in Penang are great for experiencing the island's diverse nightlife scene. When the sun goes down and strobe lights come on, this lively island really comes alive with a different kind of energy. Rooftop cocktail bars, pubs and beach bars are just a few of the main nighttime attractions – visitors will also be impressed by the island’s array of family-friendly after-hours activities.

Penang does have a certain charm, drawing travellers out of the comfort of their hotel rooms to party or shop when the clock winds down. Check out our list of the best nightlife in Penang for all the right places to party, shop or relax.

Batu Ferringhi Night Market

The Batu Ferringhi Night Market is one of Penang’s most popular shopping experiences. Jalan Batu Ferringhi is really the place to head to for after-dark shopping. Not only does this street deserve an honourable mention for having the most extensive stretch of outdoor retail offerings, but it also has the best beach frontage on the island.

Highlights include homemade crafts like bejewelled headbands and ultra-cool pop art of DC and Marvel comic characters. Open every night, you will find dozens of stalls at the Batu Ferringhi Night Market. Vendors are pretty open to bargaining and will usually give visitors pretty good deals.

Location: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kawasan Perumahan Sungai Emas, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Open: Daily from 7 pm to late

photo by Mohd Fazlin Mohd Effendy Ooi ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Upper Penang Road bars and nightclubs

Upper Penang Road has one of the largest concentrations of pubs, bars and nightclubs in Penang. Located at the start of Jalan Penang, it is closed off to vehicle traffic, allowing neon-lit clubs to place tables and chairs outside. You can people-watch and listen to the diverse, slightly muffled music soundtracks from individual clubs.

Long-standing institutions along this stretch include  Monkey Bar , a cool speakeasy-style bar with quirky interior design, and  Soho Free House , a British tavern with fantastic all-day happy hour beer promos.

5 Best Beach Clubs and Bars in Penang

11 Best Islands and Beaches in Penang

Getting Around Penang

Penang’s beach bar scene is fairly comprehensive, ranging from simple shacks to themed bars set on the sand. Not only will you find them along Jalan Batu Ferringhi’s beach border, but there are also a few seafront venues in George Town. 

Make that dream of sipping a cocktail with excellent ocean views by visiting Hard Rock Hotel’s Caribbean-style  Sand Bar  or ultra-posh  QEII . These   beach bars often have DJs spinning remixed tunes from the 1980s to the latest chart hits.

photo by Ah Wei (Lung Wei) ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) modified

Rooftop bars

Penang has plenty of great rooftop bars and nightclubs, all offering excellent views of the Andaman Sea. The dramatic  Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant & Sky Bar  and the equally-stunning  HH Rooftop Bar  are just some of the island's must-visits. Rooftop bars in Penang lets you appreciate the island's gorgeous views with a drink in hand. 

Cocktail lounges

Cocktail lounges in Penang are great for those who enjoy unique flavours and classy settings. Mixologists whip up some of the island's most inventive, colourful and tastiest drinks. All venues offer a winning formula of these drinks amid pleasing interior design, comfy seats, and unobtrusive music. 

Some of our favourites are the rustic, Peranakan-style  Baba Bar , and the fashionable  G Lounge  (in G Hotel along Gurney Drive), which has a 46-metre bar – the longest on the island.

Live music is a thriving industry in Penang, as the island hosts several music festivals throughout the year. A must-see is the Penang Island Jazz Festival in August, one of Malaysia’s largest performing arts events. The Penang World Music Festival takes place between March and April. 

Visitors looking for year-round entertainment will not be disappointed as several island bars regularly host live acts. Our top choice is the iconic  Hard Rock Café  along Jalan Batu Ferringhi, where live local performers rule the roost, but international artists make stage appearances from time to time.

Hawker centres

Penang's local hawker food scene really comes alive at night. Notable, sprawling open-air venues are found along Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Gurney Drive and Georgetown’s New Lane begin operations. Our favourite is  New Lane Hawker Centre  for its  char koay kak , a dish of pickled vegetables, rice cake, bean sprouts and fried egg.

Also good is almost everything at the  Gurney Drive Hawker Centre  (but it tends to get really packed), and the  Long Beach Food Court  along Jalan Batu Ferringh

Kek Lok Si Temple

Visit Kek Lok Si Temple at night to experience real local culture during your holiday in Penang. You can visit during the day but it somehow loses that magical spark that makes it so special when lots of locals stop by for nightly prayers, with the smell of incense scenting the air and candles lighting the altars. 

Kek Lok Si Temple is illuminated with thousands of lights up at night, providing you with plenty of opportunities for postcard-perfect pictures.

Location: 1000L, Tingkat Lembah Ria 1, 11500 Air Hitam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Phone: +60 (0)4-828 3317

Penang National Park

The Penang National Park is a great place for discovering exotic wildlife during the day, but exploring it at night is an altogether different experience. The Penang Sunset Cruise takes you on a tour of the park, which spans 1,181 hectares of forest and 1,381 hectares of wetlands. 

The tour starts at 5 pm, when there is plenty of natural light to see the park’s ecosystem. On the way back, you can see the sun setting over the horizon from the comfort of your boat.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Things to do in Penang at night

One of the best excitement in Penang comes when the sun goes down and gives away for darkness covering the atmosphere. When a day market closes, it is time for the night market to pop up. When an attraction takes a rest, it is time for another spot to take the reign. If you stay in Penang overnight, do not miss the opportunity to explore the nightlife of the city. Your time surely will be paid off so well. The following are things to do in Penang you may note down to keep awake with the city.

Top 7 things to do in Penang for a wonderful night

•   Cruise under the sunset

It is a great idea of a romantic night for those who wish to reward themselves in such a pleasant atmosphere where they are freely and comfortably observe the beauty of the beach on the Pearl of the Orient. This is also a good choice for couples who want to spend their time together. A Sunset Cruise starting at Penang’s National Park brings a marvelous option. The cruise will take visitors on a tour through 1,181 hectares of forest and 1,381 hectares of wetlands in the Penang National Park. Remember to arrive at the park at 5:00 pm to take the tour. When cruising there, you can enjoy both the fauna and flora of the forest and spectacular sunset view.

•   Go shopping at Batu Ferringhi night bazaar:

When mentioning about Batu Ferringhi, sandy beaches and live bars will come first on the list. However, the night market there is also a great place for you to discover the place at night. The number of night markets here is quite a lot and are scattered for better tourist accessibility, so you can see many similar items like souvenirs, clothing, toys, sunglasses in those markets.

•   Explore the local food courts:

Speaking to things to do in Penang, tourists cannot miss to explore local cuisine. When the day markets rest and gives the space for long ranges of night markets, it is high time for visitors to explore the heaven of night food choice. Now, note down some of the most delicious foods for your night dinner: chicken rice, char kuay teow, asam laksa. Here comes the most popular places: Gurney Drive Hawker Market, New Lane Hawker Centre, Long Beach Food Court, and Presgrave Hawker Centre, CF Food Court. If you are kinda rush, you can buy food at the standalone food stalls put along the streets.

•   Rest at the rooftop bars:

If you wish to level up your bar experience, let’s hit the rooftop bars in Penang. This idea is best enjoyed with groups of friends. There are plenty of rooftops bars in the heart of Georgetown. Now let’s take note some like the Gravity at G Hotel and The Press, Three Sixty Revolving Rooftop Bar.

•       Pay a visit to Kek Lok Si Temple:

Temple is also on the list of top things to do in Penang for you. If you want a quiet place for relaxation and enjoy a more spiritual experience, you should consider one of the most remarkable Buddhist temple complexes in Southeast Asia – the Kek Lok Si Temple. The temple also holds the title of the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Kek Lok Si is a popular place for visitors during the daytime. When the night comes, this becomes the stop for the local to have a night prayer. The temple covers an area of 4 hectares offering a wonderful chance for stunning photographs.

•       Listen to live night music:

If you are bored with the mainstream music playlist on the radio, then it is high time for you to refresh your music list with fantastic live performances. When in Penang, do not miss the chance to discover one of the most interesting part of the city at night. So where to go? Let’s enter the Canteen at China House, then Hard Rock Café and Talk Talk Wine Bar.

•       Sing and dance the night away:

If you are a party lover, you should not say no to the dancefloor for sure. Penang is full of nightclubs that open until the down. Now learn by heart some of the best ones like Soju Room, Muchacha, MOIS Club which are catered around upper Penang Road and Precinct 10 and many others like QEII Penang, Slippery Senoritas Penang, M2 Penang, Jammin Penang.

If you have a kinda full itinerary, you surely need to spend time taking a full rest and recharge for battery for your trip. However, with a careful time management, you still can live with the city to the fullest. With several suggestions above, we hope you can fulfill your trip with Penang at night activities.  

Check out things to do in Penang with GoAsiaDayTrip here

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Penang Nightlife – Top 5 Best Places to Visit After Dark

Penang comes alive after dark, offering a vibrant and eclectic mix of entertainment options for locals and visitors.

With its diverse range of bars, clubs, and hawker centers, Penang has something for everyone looking to enjoy a night out.

From trendy rooftop bars to street-side food stalls and live music venues, the nightlife scene in Penang is not to be missed.

Visitors Looking for Penang Nightlife

Visitors looking for an unforgettable night out in Penang are in luck.

With its bustling night markets, vibrant bars and clubs, and delicious hawker centers, Penang is the perfect destination for those looking to let loose and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink with friends, a lively night of dancing, or a taste of Penang street food, you’ll find everything you need right here.

So, come and explore Penang’s thriving nightlife scene and experience all this lively city has to offer.

Where the Locals Go – Discovering the Best of Penang Nightlife

If you’re tired of the mundane routine of everyday life and need a break from the daily grind, it’s time to pack your bags, grab your passport, and escape to Penang!

George Town’s vibrant culture, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine beckon.

Welcome to Penang, one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations, a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.

For the history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Penang has something for everyone.

Get ready to explore George Town City from dawn to dusk and prepare for Penang nightlife that will leave a lasting impression on you.

George Town is the best place to stay in Penang, as it offers easy access to all the best nightlife spots.

Penang boasts an exciting nightlife scene for foodies and party animals on the loose; there’s something for everyone in Penang after dark.

Here are the top 5 places to go in Penang at night

1 Experience the Thrill of Street Art at Armenian Street

If you find yourself in Georgetown, exploring the sights and sounds of Penang, one place you must visit is Armenian Street (Lebuh Armenian).

Take in the sights of Chinese temples, Clan homes, and the nearby mosques of Acheen Street and Kapitan Keling as you stroll through the central area of the George Town World Heritage Site.

With its pocket park, Armenian Street has charming shophouses, cafes, and art galleries.

The street art and murals have put Armenian Street on the map.

Some of Penang’s best street art can be found around this area, adding a layer of visual delight to your city’s exploration.

The Street is a hub of activity day and night and is lined with trendy cafes and bars that come alive at night, making it the perfect place to hang out with friends.

So, if you’re looking for unique murals and vibrant experiences in Penang, Armenian Street is the place to be.

Remember to bring your power bank, as the street art provides the perfect backdrop for some incredible Instagram shots.

Armenian Street, Penang

2 Pasar Malam Shopping at Batu Ferringhi Night Market

If you’re a fan of night markets and scoring a good bargain, visit Jalan Batu Ferringhi as the sun sets.

This bustling 1-kilometer stretch of street stalls offers everything from clothing and imitation designer bags to souvenirs, toys, paintings, and more.

While some items may be low-quality knock-offs, savvy shoppers can hunt down higher-quality items like locally-made souvenirs and acrylic paintings.

A few restaurants and bars in Long Beach offer meals, drinks, and great views for a relaxing time.

Jalan Batu Ferringhi is also a great place to pamper yourself with a Thai massage or a henna tattoo.

You can even find 24-hour tailors, making it a one-stop shop for all your shopping and entertainment needs.

Bartering is essential when shopping at any night market, so feel free to negotiate with vendors for a reasonable price.

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, a bite to eat, or want to soak up the lively atmosphere, Jalan Batu Ferringhi is a must-visit during your trip to Penang .

Try some of Penang’s best street food while you’re here, including the famous Char Koay Teow and Penang Assam Laksa.

And if you’re in the mood for music and dancing, head to any resorts along Jalan Batu Ferringhi, where you can sing along and dance the night away to live music.

Batu Ferringhi Night Market, Penang

3 Savor Penang Street Food at Gurney Drive

Visit Gurney Drive at night for an open-air food court, restaurants, and cafes with a wide range of street food.

Since the 1970s, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre has served popular dishes like Assam Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and Sotong Bakar.

Gurney Drive has something for everyone.

Some may consider the area commercialized, but tourists love exploring the different stalls to enjoy the fantastic variety of street food.

Gurney Drive is open until late at night, making it the perfect place to satisfy your late-night cravings.

Penang’s Nightlife scene features live music to accompany your culinary adventures.

Image: Gurney Drive Penang Facebook

4 Enjoy Live Music and Cocktails in George Town

Love Lane is a charming narrow alley in George Town, Penang, home to some of the city’s coolest bars and cafes.

As the sun sets, Love Lane comes alive with live music, making it an ideal spot to unwind after sightseeing all day.

Sit and enjoy a cold beer or a creative cocktail while you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Love Lane offers a range of dining options from Italian to Mexican cuisine to suit any taste buds and budget.

Check out the iconic Hong Kong Bar on Chulia Street, The RAAF’s unofficial museum, showcasing its rich history.

Hong Kong Bar, Chulia Street, Penang.

If you’re looking for a more intimate and relaxed vibe, there are plenty of unique bars to explore.

Love Lane is a must-visit destination for experiencing the local nightlife and a fun night out.

You can always count on cheap hawker food and a great night out.

Head to one of these trippin’ bars and enjoy the lively music and vibrant atmosphere of Love Lane.

5 Take a Romantic Stroll at the Esplanade

If you want a more romantic way to spend your evening, head to the Esplanade.

This waterfront promenade offers stunning sea views and is perfect for a stroll.

You can also catch the famous Penang sunset, a sight to behold.

Esplanade has many food vendors for a snack or drinks while enjoying the seaview.

In the evenings, take a stroll down The Esplanade in George Town.

Historical attractions and beautiful views surround the Esplanade.

There’s plenty to explore the iconic Fort Cornwallis, the City Hall, and the Esplanade.

Take your time and soak in the rich history and beauty of this charming area in Penang.

It’s the perfect way to rest your tired feet and eyes while enjoying a relaxing evening with your loved ones.

Esplanade, Penang Image: Wikipedia

Penang Nightlife A Vibrant Experience That Starts After Dark.

In conclusion, Penang Nightlife is a must-see for anyone visiting Malaysia.

The city’s vibrant atmosphere, delicious street food, and lively music make for an unforgettable experience.

Explore George Town City at night and discover Penang’s hidden gems.

Plan your trip today and experience the excitement of Penang Nightlife for yourself. So what are you waiting for?

Grab your friends or loved ones and prepare for a night of adventure and fun in George Town.

You won’t regret it!

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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Penang

24 BEST Places to Visit in Penang (2024)

Spread across a strip along the mainland peninsula and a fairly large island, Malaysia’s state of Penang is famous for being one of the world’s premier places for mouth-watering street food. It also boasts an abundance of beautiful architecture, plentiful historic and religious sites, places of natural interest, and beaches.

Due to the state’s spread-out nature, deciding where to visit each day can be tricky. You don’t want to waste time travelling between hotspots only to later discover there were other cool places close to hand.

We’ve done the research so that you don’t miss any of Penang’s highlights. Add these best places to visit in Penang to your itinerary for an epic trip to the island:

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Penang:

These are the best places to visit in penang, faq on the best places to visit in penang, final thoughts on penang’s best places.

George Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town has an abundance of churches and temples, pre-war architecture, and a lively arts and culture scene.

• Admire the colonial architecture of Wisma Kastam.
• Go for a stroll along Gurney Drive.
• Take a graffiti spotting tour through the city.

And now, onto the good stuff … here are the best places to visit in Penang!

Visit Penang with peace of mind that you’re seeing the very best places the state has to offer…

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#1 Monkey Beach

• Great for swimming!
• Not very crowded
• Inside of an epic national park!
• Go on either a jungle hike or boat

Why it’s awesome: This is one of those tourist attractions you just can’t miss when you visit Penang Island! The secluded beach is located deep inside Penang National Park, which is worth a trip on its own. The best thing about the beach is you can only reach it via hike or boat!

Relax on the sand, swim, or grab some grub at one of the on-site beach shacks. At over 1km long, it’s Penang’s longest stretch of sand.

What to do there : Relax on the sand, take a dip in the water, or even charter a local boat to explore the area. Spot the native Macaque monkeys, and spend the night at the beach campsite to check out sunrise and sunset! The entrance fee is RM50 for foreigners.

#2 See the Amazing Floating Mosque

• A mosque built on stilts!
• Free to enter
• Iconic design
• Gives insight into Islam in Malaysia

Why it’s awesome: The Tanjung Bungah Floating mosque is a stunning architectural marvel that we’d definitely consider a must-see while you’re visiting Penang. Its unique location makes it appear as if it is literally floating – you most likely have never seen another mosque like it.

What to do there : Walk around the grounds and take in the peace and beauty. It’s also not a good idea to visit during prayer times out of respect.

#3 – Chulia Street Night Market

• Huge assortment of street food
• Affordable prices
• Lively and friendly atmosphere
• Terrific photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Chulia Street Night Market is one of the best places in Penang for a wide array of delicious street food—and that’s quite an achievement in a city that’s world-renowned for its incredible street food scene . There are a number of small sit-down eateries as well as an abundance of hawker stalls and basic tables and chairs where you can dine on the streets. Dishes reflect the country’s mixed heritage, with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and local fusion fare all available. You can expect Indian style curries, iconic Penang prawn noodles, and thousands of dishes in between. Prices are reasonable too.

What to do there: Stroll along the lively Chulia Street Night Market watching as vendors cook an assortment of dishes on the spot, the scents of cooking wafting through the air, the sizzling sounds breaking through the chatter, and the sights that are sure to tempt you.

If you’re into food photography this is a terrific place to indulge in your hobby. Of course, it’s also a fantastic place to get your fill of delicious street food. Be sure

#4 – Kek Lok Si Temple

• Striking hilltop temple
• Biggest Buddhist temple in Malaysia
• Major pilgrimage site
• See various cultural practices

Why it’s awesome: The large and detailed Buddhist temple of Kek Lok Si is perched on a high hill overlooking the surroundings. The extensive complex is the nation’s largest Buddhist temple and it attracts mainly devout Buddhists who want to make merit, worship, and pay their respects. The architecture and religious practices reflect different branches of Buddhism.

The ornate temple dates back to the 1890s, built using donations from a number of wealthy Chinese businessmen, and there have been a number of striking additions over the years. Spread over three main zones and with beautiful architecture, fascinating statues, splendid gardens, and terrific views, there’s definitely plenty to appreciate at the important temple.

What to do there: Marvel at the soaring seven-level pagoda adorned with thousands of statues of the Lord Buddha, and notice the blend of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences in its design. Be impressed by the towering 36-metre-tall (120-foot-tall) bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin). Find your Chinese zodiac birth animal among the 12 statues.

Stroll through the pleasant gardens and soak up the pretty views. Watch turtles and fish swimming in the ponds, spend some time in quiet reflection in one of the prayer halls, see devotees performing various religious rituals, buy a range of souvenirs, amulets, and religious memorabilia, and call into the restaurant for a tasty and filling vegetarian meal.

#5 – Pinang Peranakan Museum

• Learn more about Peranakan heritage and culture
• Eye-catching artefacts
• Housed in a historic mansion
• One of Penang’s best museums

Why it’s awesome: Pinang Peranakan Mansion tells the story of the area’s Peranakan (Straits Chinese) past. The building, built in the 1890s, was once the home of a wealthy Chinese businessman, and it has been restored to showcase its former splendour. Rooms are decorated and arranged so as to transport people back in time and the museum is filled with numerous antiques and items from the Peranakan community. The museum is so well curated and the collections so vast that it has received many accolades and been featured in various TV shows.

What to do there: Admire the handsome green building from the outside, noting the blend of Chinese, European, and Malaysian elements. Peranakans maintained their own customs while also adopting those from their new area (the Straits) and later from colonial influences, leading to a unique way of life and culture. Explore the museum’s rooms and courtyards, filled with beautiful details and objects.

You’ll see things like exquisitely carved wood, ceramic floor tiles, decorative room screens, and more than 1,000 gorgeous antiques. See the statue of the mansion’s former owner standing inside the adjacent small shrine.

#6 – Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

• Insane design!
• A UNESCO award winner
• Movies have been shot here!
• Bucket-list experience

Why it’s awesome: The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is no doubt one of the coolest places to see in Malaysia. Nicknamed the Blue Mansion for obvious reasons, it’s also an epic boutique hotel these days. The iconic home once belonged to a 19th Chinese tycoon of the industrialist era. The home eventually went under some major renovations that even earned it a UNESCO award. The property continues to welcome guests and has even appeared in major films, including the mega-hit Crazy Rich Asians.

What to do there: Book a tour for either 11 AM, 2 PM, or 3:30 PM. For the full experience, you can book a luxury stay in one of their rooms.

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#7 – Snake Temple

• Home to many snakes
• Long history
• Surrounded in local legends
• Beautiful architecture

Why it’s awesome: Penang’s Snake Temple was constructed in the early 1800s to honour a Chinese Buddhist monk, Chor Soo Kong. He was known for doing many kind deeds, particularly tending to the sick and assisting snakes. Local lore says that when the temple was built, pit vipers just started to appear there. Today, lots of snakes lounge throughout the temple. Although locals believe that the incense smoke makes the snakes harmless, they have been de-venomed to be on the safe side!

What to do there: Wander around the temple complex and stare in fascination at the numerous snakes who call the religious site home. See snakes draped across the shrines, coiled around statues and columns, hanging from branches, and in almost any place you could think of! Most of the resident snakes are pit vipers, though you’ll also spot a number of other species. Visit the breeding centre and learn more about the slithery and often misunderstood creatures. You can also enjoy the attractive details of the temple.

#8 – Penang National Park

• Rich array of flora and fauna
• Diverse landscapes
• Great outdoor activities
• Youngest national park in Malaysia

Why it’s awesome: Despite being fairly small, covering just 2997 acres (1,213 hectares) of land and sea, Penang National Park boasts a wide assortment of plants and animals and also has diverse terrain within its boundaries. There are several habitats in the park not found elsewhere in the country and it’s one of the nation’s most biodiverse parts. Furthermore, the national park also has historical and archaeological elements and great views.

There are long beaches, mangroves, and wildlife-rich forests, with creatures calling the park home including turtles, otters, dolphins, monkeys, mouse deer, wild boar, and various species of bird. Plants include the delicate orchids, the unusual pitcher plants, sea almonds, bonsai trees, and various herbs.

What to do there: Soak up the splendid vistas and bask on the sandy shores of pretty beaches like Pantai Mas, Pasir Pandak, Teluk Kerachut, Tanjung Ailing, and Teluk Bahang. See the unusual meromictic lake, a lake where the waters don’t mix and the different colours can clearly be seen. Spot various creatures and plants and follow the two long nature trails. Be sure to wear sensible footwear!

Get a bird’s eye view of the forests and beaches from the 15-metre-high (49-foot-high) canopy walkway. Visit other places of interest within the park, such as Muka Head Lighthouse and the old Hokkien cemetery. There are natural swimming pools where you can take a dip and cool down and you’ll find plenty of nice places for a picnic. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also camp within the national park.

#9 – Batu Feringghi

• Popular white-sand beach
• Water-based activities
• Diverse places of interest close to hand
• Lively nightlife

Why it’s awesome: One of the most popular destinations in Penang with Malaysia backpackers , Batu Feringghi boasts a long, sandy beach and offers beautiful views. Previously a quiet village with a long history, today the area has an abundance of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. A pleasant place to watch the sun go down, Batu Feringghi is also known for its cool laid-back night scene, with plenty of bars sitting close to the beach. While you’ll find plenty of ways to spend money if you wish, visiting the beach and enjoying the vibe doesn’t cost a single Ringgit.

What to do there: Sunbathe on the soft sands of Batu Feringghi beach and admire the views of the shimmering emerald waters meeting the horizon. Stay until later on in the day to witness a beautiful sunset over the ocean. Although the waters generally aren’t considered great for swimming there are various water-based activities that you can enjoy, including parasailing, riding on banana boats, jet skiing, and kayaking. Kids and adults alike can have heaps of fun at Wet World Wild, with its many inflatable features. Browse a wide range of goods and feast on street food at the lively Batu Feringghi night market.

#10 – Penang Batik Factory

• Learn more about traditional batik
• Watch artists at work
• Buy beautiful handmade items
• Free guided tours

Why it’s awesome: Penang Batik Factory was set up in 1973 and it shows the skills that go into creating stunning textile art. Artisans can make a living at the small cottage industry and tourists can see exactly how pieces are made, appreciating items a lot more than simply seeing them in a showroom. Each artist has their own specialty. The factory has three sections: a boutique, an art gallery, and a workshop. There are free tours of the facility and you aren’t overly pressured to make a purchase.

What to do there: Watch artists at work in the workshop and see the precision and talent that goes into creating traditional batik designs. See artisans hand drawing patterns, colouring in designs, and using blocks to create imprints on fabrics. Items here are atypical in that they have patterns on both sides of the fabric. Visit the art gallery to admire a wide selection of batik artworks in all sizes and colours. You may even wish to make a special purchase to add something unusual to your home. If you’re more interested in batik clothing call into the boutique, where you’ll find various garments for men, women, and children.

#11 – Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

• Penang’s first Burmese Buddhist temple
• Retreat for Buddhist monks
• Traditional details created by Burmese craftspeople

Why it’s awesome: Founded in the early 1800s, Dhammikarama Burmese Temple is the oldest Burmese temple in Penang. It has strong links to women, having been established on land donated by a wealthy lady and several female trustees. Expanded and altered over the years, the temple was initially constructed from wood and later rebuilt using sturdier materials. It displays typical Burmese features throughout and skilled Burmese artisans were commissioned to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The temple also serves as a monastery, with Buddhist monks living onsite.

What to do there: Walk through the red and golden gateway, complete with large elephant statues and traditional Burmese designs and topped with the umbrella-like spire. Stand in front of the stupa, which is the oldest part of the complex, having been consecrated in the year 1805.

Rest in the shade of the sacred Boddhi tree, see the monk’s living quarters (from outside), and view the large collection of Buddha statues in various postures and detailed murals. Look for interesting statues of mythical creatures too, including the garuda, chinthe, and panca rupa. Enjoy the peaceful and serene ambience and watch as local devotees come here to pray and seek blessings.

#12 – Penang Jewish Cemetery – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Penang

• Peaceful ambience
• Lesser-visited spot
• One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Southeast Asia
• Legacy of a disappearing community

Why it’s awesome: Surrounded by high walls, the quiet Jewish Cemetery is one of the last traces of Penang’s former Jewish community. Even the old synagogue closed down back in the 1970s. The cemetery gates are often kept locked, but people wishing to visit can knock and the custodian will come and let you in.

It is thought that the last local Jew passed away in 2011, his grave the most recent in the lonely cemetery, thus ending Penang’s Jewish community. Neat rows of graves bear witness to the fact that there were once fairly substantial numbers of Jews resident in Penang. The interesting cemetery sees very few visitors.

What to do there: Chat with the cemetery keeper and learn a little bit about Penang’s former Jewish community and hear whispers from yesteryear as you walk through the rows of gravestones. Pay your respects to the deceased and wonder about the now lost local community. See the oldest grave in the burial ground, which dates back to 1835, as well as the newest grave from 2011.

You’ll notice that the memorials are in a typical Middle Eastern style and that most of the inscriptions are in Hebrew. You’re sure to feel as though you’ve stepped away from the tried and tested tourist path and are discovering new insights into Penang’s past.

#13 – Kapitan Keling Mosque – One of the most religious places to see in Penang

• Built by Indian Muslims
• Open to non-Muslims (with permission from officials)

Why it’s awesome: Kapitan Keling Mosque – set in one of George Town’s central areas – is a gorgeous mosque. It was built in the early 19 th century by some of the earliest Indian Muslim immigrants to Penang. Designed in an Indo-Moorish style, it also has Gothic and Roman elements. A golden dome sits atop the pale building with a high minaret alongside. There are typical Islamic details, such as calligraphy of passages from the Islamic holy book (the Quran), floral imagery, geometric patterns, and colourful stained glass.

What to do there: Listen out for the lilting call to prayer, issued five times each day from the minaret by the muezzin calling the faithful. Walk along the sweeping path to reach the main building, complete with its glorious dome, passing elegant archways alongside. Look inside the prayer hall to see ornate prayer rugs scattered across the marble floor, rich traditional designs, and a beautiful chandelier. Do note that you should dress modestly to visit the mosque and will need to get permission to look inside if you are not from the Muslim faith.

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#14 – Butterworth

• Main town on Penang’s peninsula mainland
• Uncrowded compared with more popular places in Penang
• Local vibes
• Varied attractions and activities

Why it’s awesome: While most people see Penang as synonymous with George Town with its UNESCO status, there’s a whole bunch more to explore in the state’s mainland areas too. Butterworth is the main town in mainland Penang and it has a variety of attractions and activities to keep you busy on a day trip. If you’re wondering where to stay in Malaysia to explore Penang but still avoid the tourist life, Butterworth is a fine choice with some of Penangs best Airbnb’s available. Crowds are smaller than on the island and it’s a great place to immerse yourself in local life. The area boasts beaches, beautiful temples, lively markets, and more.

What to do there: Take a walk along the beach or relax at the seaside at hotspots like Pantai Bersih and Bagan Ajam. Get a glimpse of local beliefs at the Taoist temple of the Nine Emperor Gods, one of the town’s biggest places of worship. Snap pictures of the large pagodas, vibrant colours, statues of Chinese deities, and ornate decorative touches.

You can also experience local Indian culture at the lavish Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam Hindu Temple. Butterworth Bird Park is a lovely place for a family outing, home to many avian species from across the globe. Don’t miss the large and lively Apollo Market for street food, fresh produce, and knickknacks.

#15 – Upside Down Museum

• Fun for people of all ages
• Unusual attraction
• Fabulous photo opportunities
• See the world from a different perspective

Why it’s awesome: Penang’s Upside Down Museum is a cool museum where, as the name suggests, everything is upside down. With furnishings and other common items firmly attached to the top of each room, you really can feel like your world has been turned upside down and that you’re walking like Spiderman suctioned to the ceiling. You won’t just find typical rooms of a house here; there’s even a topsy turvy market, café, and others. There are fantastic photo opportunities and it’s an unusual and fun place for both children and adults.

What to do there: Walk through the upside-down bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom, posing for lots of awesome pictures that seem to defy gravity. Members of staff are happy to give you pointers as to how to achieve the coolest and most realistic-looking snaps.

Everything from the beds, cupboards, desks, oven, and kitchen sink are above you, with rooms that look incredibly lifelike … except for being the wrong way round! Discover the turned around market, pose as though you’re walking down the stairs on your hands, play the piano whilst seemingly hovering above it, and have a ball!

#16 – Guar Petai – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Penang!

• Off the beaten track
• Beautiful landscapes
• Former quarry
• Excellent photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Nestled in a sleepy rural village on mainland Penang, Guar Petai is an old and abandoned water-filled quarry. Ponds are filled with sparkling emerald green waters and lots of lush greenery and reddish rust-coloured and sandy rocks add to the enchanting and alluring vistas. A natural splendour, it’s often pretty quiet. A great spot for photography and romantic moments, it is commonly said to resemble Jiuzhaigou in China. Even better, there’s no cost to visit this picturesque place.

What to do there: Climb to the top of the former quarry and soak up the picturesque views, admiring the contrasting colours and the way that the sun glints off the striking green waters. Snap plenty of beautiful pictures of the gorgeous terrain and enjoy the peace and quiet. Walk around the area to find even more great angles for stunning photography and terrific views.

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#17 – Design Village Penang – A great place in Penang if you love to shop!

• Largest mall in Penang
• Beautiful tropical gardens
• Wide range of goods
• Diverse places to eat and drink

Why it’s awesome: Not only is Design Village Penang the biggest mall in Penang but it is also among the largest outlet shopping centres in the entire country. Home to around 150 shops that sell a huge array of goods, you’re almost certain to find anything that you could wish to buy here. The open-concept retail village is spread across stunning tropical gardens. There are plenty of shaded seating areas in the greenery as well as a good choice of cafes and restaurants that cater to diverse tastes.

What to do there: Naturally, the main reason to visit Design Village Penang is to indulge in a spot of retail therapy! Browse in shops like Guess, Coach, Samsonite, Timberland, Pierre Cardin, Gap, Puma, and Rip Curl, treating yourself to new outfits, footwear, home items, beauty products, sportswear, and more. Admire the balance between nature and commerce as you stroll through the lush gardens, and stop to refuel in one of the great eateries.

#18 – Clan Jetties – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Penang

• Floating villages
• Traditional ways of life
• Historic vibe
• Great views

Why it’s awesome: The six Clan Jetties of Penang are old water villages that were built by Chinese groups. Initially a wood yard and later a place where people would load and offload boats, workers began to build small huts along the wooden jetties. More and more of these basic stilted properties were constructed, creating entire small villages of stilt houses over the water.

Each jetty was associated with a specific clan of Chinese immigrants, and several clans still call the jetties home today: the Chew, Tan, Lim, Yeoh, and Lee, plus a mixed clan jetty (Snaeh). In the past, there were even more such jetties stretching along the waterfront. People still live at the jetties today and traditional ways of life prevail.

What to do there: Start with a visit to the Chew Clan Jetty and take a walk along the sturdy planks, passing local homes and stores. Inhale the scents of incense burning at small shrines outside dwellings and call into the small temple that sits over the water. Get a glimpse of a different way of life and appreciate the wooden structures that are simple but cosy and functional.

See small boats bobbing on the waves and soak up the views; the sunset vistas are especially pretty. If you want to experience more of life in the villages, visit some of the area’s other Clan Jetties too. Do remember to act respectfully, keep the noise down, and be courteous with your photography as these are still private dwellings where people live and go about their day-to-day business.

#19 – Dark Mansion

• Glow-in-the-dark scenes
• Interactive art

Why it’s awesome: The Dark Mansion is one of Penang’s quirkier museums. It’s the country’s only 3D glow-in-the-dark museum, open since 2016. Using technology and science to enhance an arty experience, the museum not only has cool 3D paintings that let you appear as though you’re in a variety of scenes but it also has a glowing effect. Visitors can see the art in normal lighting and then in the dark, with special lighting, to appreciate how the picture changes. It’s certainly lots of fun and you’re sure to come away with many amazing photos.

What to do there: Immerse yourself in various scenes while your friends (or a helpful member of staff) snap plenty of pictures of you. Witness the transformation of art under different lighting conditions and play around with different props. Highlights include the magical glow-in-the-dark forest, complete with various creatures, the dazzling scenes of the night sky, and a cool radiant bridge.

Travel back in time and feel a pang of nostalgia as you pass through the time tunnel and marvel at the celebrated Edgar Muller piece called Fire and Water, which is the biggest anamorphic glow-in-the-dark image in the world.

#20 – Sri Mahamariamman Temple

• Penang’s oldest Hindu temple
• Eye-catching colours and details
• Strong sense of spirituality
• Home to many pigeons

Why it’s awesome: The melting pot of culture is just one of the many good reasons to travel to Malaysia . From Islam to Buddhism to (Tamil) Hindu, bring your shoulder covering, because we’re going temple hunting!

Having started life as a simple shrine back in the early 1800s, the present temple building of Penang’s Sri Mahamariamman Temple was constructed in 1833. Built by early Tamil Indian migrants, it is the oldest Hindu temple in the state. Colourful with many ornate features, it’s a fabulous place to admire architectural beauty and religious art. The ambience is simultaneously energetic and peaceful, with many devotees coming here to perform prayers and religious rituals each day.

What to do there: Make sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds. Admire the vibrant gopurum (entrance tower) with its many intricate carvings of Hindu deities, animals, flowers, symbols, and other features. Standing at almost 24 metres (78 feet) tall, it has four tiers and is meant to represent Mount Meru, which is said to be the mountain that supports the heavens in Hindu mythology.

You’ll notice that many pigeons have set up home in the tower too. Appreciate the many fine details within the complex and see the large statue of Lord Subramaniam inside the domed main building. Soak up the spiritual air and visit the nearby Indian stores and restaurants.

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#21 – Penang State Museum and Art Gallery

• Discover local history, heritage, and culture
• See impressive artworks
• Home to a large collection of artefacts
• Housed in a gorgeous building

Why it’s awesome: Penang State Museum and Art Gallery is housed within a striking architectural gem that was once home to Penang Free School. It became a museum in the mid-1960s. It contains both an awesome art gallery and an informative museum with lots of artefacts and displays. Items include state and national treasures and there are constantly changing art exhibits in addition to the impressive permanent collections. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in delving deeper into the area’s past and culture.

What to do there: Take time to appreciate the diverse collections in the museums, seeing items such as furnishings, traditional clothes, weapons, old transportation methods, tools, ceramics, silverware, and jewellery. The hand-written Quran is especially interesting.

There’s good information as to the significance of the diverse exhibits and you can learn more about Penang’s multi-ethnic, multi-racial, and multi-cultural community. In the art gallery you’ll find eight treasured paintings by Captain Robert Smith as well as plenty of other works. Travel back in time as you see old black and white photographs of Penang in times gone by. You can buy a selection of merchandise too.

#22 – St. Anne’s Church

• Off-the-beaten-track religious building
• Serene and spiritual ambience
• Old and new places of worship side by side
• Important pilgrimage site

Why it’s awesome: Located in Bukit Mertajam on Penang’s mainland peninsula, St. Anne’s Church is a lesser-visited spot with a long history and steeped in religious significance. While the yearly ten-day Feast of St. Anne celebrations are lively, drawing devotees from around the nation and beyond, the church is quiet and tranquil at other times of the year.

The original chapel was built in 1846, with a later church (now known as the Shrine of St. Anne) constructed in 1888. The nearby 2002-built church is a modern juxtaposition. It’s one of the country’s biggest Christian churches and it features traditional Malay designs. There are ancient megaliths close by. An active place of worship, mass is held in several languages depending on the day of the week.

What to do there: Spend some quiet moments of reflection and contemplation at the old St. Anne’s Shrine and appreciate the beautiful stained glass above the altar. See the large statue of St. Anne (Mary’s mother) with the Virgin Mary as a child in front of the newer church, pray at the Catholic Stations of the Cross, and view the Cherok Tokun Relics. Within the sanctuary’s grounds, the Cherok Tokun Relics are ancient rock inscriptions on a granite megalith. Enjoy the serene air and soak up the religious atmosphere.

#23 – Upper Penang Road

• Various bars, karaoke spots, and nightclubs
• Wide choice of places to eat
• Energetic atmosphere
• Blend of architectural styles

Why it’s awesome: Upper Penang Road, located in George Town, is the epicentre of Penang’s nightlife scene . During the day there are many shops to browse in and the street also hosts the monthly Little Penang Street Market. Held on the last Sunday of each month, stalls offer everything from crafts and clothing to souvenirs and food, and there is often live entertainment to add to the carnival-like air.

Heritage buildings are interspersed with modern day street art. At night time the street attracts many revellers, including both locals and tourists. There are plenty of places to enjoy dinner before starting your night out on the tiles, with street food stalls aplenty and sit-down restaurants. Bars and nightclubs keep people happy until the wee small hours. There are some of Penang’s best hostels here if you decide to base yourself in this area!

What to do there: Walk along the historic street in the daytime to see the different architectural styles and peer into the shops and boutiques. Enjoy a romantic meal in the Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant, savouring delicious cuisine as you soak up the panoramic views, or feast on street food, visit another high-class eatery, and discover many local specialities.

Mingle with the party-loving crowds in the vibrant bars and maybe hit up a karaoke joint to warble your favourite songs. Visit a roadside bar to sit outside on the pavement and watch the world go by. Hop between the various bars and clubs and bust out your best moves on the dancefloor, accompanied by neon lighting and banging tunes.

#24 – Fort Cornwallis

• Malaysia’s longest standing fortress
• Unusual lighthouse
• Interesting displays

Why it’s awesome: The star-shaped Fort Cornwallis was built in the early 1800s on the site of an earlier wooden fort. It was constructed by the British East India Company to protect the island, though it never saw any attacks. Today listed as an Ancient Monument and Historic Site, the fort provides terrific views over the sea. Old cannons still stand to attention through the grounds and there are various displays and buildings throughout the large park within the walls.

What to do there: Walk around the fortress’s outer walls and soak up the splendid vistas. Inside, see the proud statue of Captain Francis Light near the entrance and the many historic cannons that were intended to keep the island safe. Don’t miss the cannon called Seri Rambai—locals see this piece of artillery as a symbol of fertility, and you’ll likely notice offerings

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Find out what people want to know about Penang’s attractions.

What are some of the best places in Penang for couples?

Have a romantic meal at the Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant on Upper Penang Road and take in views of George Town below.

What are the best places to visit in Penang at night?

Hit up the Chulia Street Night Market for some of the incredible local street food that Penang is famous for!

What are some great free things to do in Penang?

You’ve just got to explore the fun and interactive murals that cover the crumbling walls of the city, search them out as you wander the streets!

What are the most unique places to visit in Penang?

If you’re feeling brave then head to Snake Temple where you guessed it, half the local visitors are of the scaly variety!

Penang has myriad places of worship that reflect the area’s multi-cultural and multi-ethnic make-up; the Goddess of Mercy Temple, St. George’s Church, Admiral Zheng He Footprint Temple, and the Thai temple of Wat Chayamangkalaram are just a few more to add to your list. Other top museums to visit include the Toy Museum, War Museum, Wonderfood Museum, Chocolate Museum, Penang Tunnel Museum, and Sun Yat-Sen Museum. There’s definitely lots of diversity!

Wander through the Tropical Spice Garden and take kids to Penang Butterfly Farm. Feast your eyes on the ornate Chinese clan building of Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi. Feel a thrill as you walk across the towering Rainbow Skywalk, have an immersive experience at Penang 3D Trick Art Museum, climb Penang Hill (or take the impressive Penang Hill funicular), take a day trip to Jerejak Island, and discover the many species of flora in the Penang Botanical Gardens.

With lots of heritage buildings and places of worship, delectable street food, beaches, museums to suit all interests, family-friendly attractions, places of natural interest, and plenty of ways to find nocturnal fun, make sure to check off these best places to visit in Penang on your next visit to the Malaysian gem.

Updated April 2023

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Nightlife In Penang: 10 Coolest Places To Chill Out

In this section, find out where to drink, dance and listen to music—all around the Pearl of the Orient. With that in mind, here at Penang Foodie, we took a crack at identifying a list of haunts that have earned a special spot in the hearts of Penangites. We have rounded up its 10 favourite chills out places in the city right now. From classic landmarks to new hot-spots, everything on this list is definitely worth a visit.

Nightlife in Penang

Nightlife in Penang is fun, interesting and charming. We have super good wine bars to chill at and awesome supper spots too. Besides that, we have the coolest drinking spots to chill at as well. From small secret bars to speakeasy-style bars, here’s your ultimate guide to finding the best-kept secrets of Penang’s nightlife.

Alright, without further due, let’s see what we’ve got in today’s guide.

天下第一客棧 Magazine 63

One may never expect to encounter an antique hideaway bar right in the heart of the island (Penang), but perhaps that’s precisely the point. No signboard, no arrow pointing where is the entrance too.

Through a dark and musty hall that was a part of an old premise unveiled a secluded bar decorated with the ancient Chinese elements. We paid a visit to 天下第一客棧 Magazine 63 before and we really love the vibe there. This is probably the coolest bar we ever encountered in Penang indeed.

Speakeasy bar

Address: 61, Jalan Magazine, George Town, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Operating hour: 20:00 – 02:00 open daily

Tel: 016-499 2299

Good Friends Club

If you love nostalgia and the playfulness of contemporary art space, Good Friends Club is definitely for you to chill at night. It is a new project commenced by local Penangites with the aim to create a network that better portrays the island.

Soul searching old charm

Address: 39, Jalan Gurdwara Penang 10300

Operating hour: Mon, Wed-Thu, Sun 7pm-1am; Fri-Sat 7pm-2am

Bora Bora by Sunset

Bora-bora is voted as no.1 nightlife in Batu Ferringhi on TripAdvisor . It’s situated along Batu Feringghi Beach. Thus, take advantage of that. How? Grab your beer and enjoy sunset there.

Oh! Pool and dart game is available at Bora Bora as well. A decent bar for you to chill out with your friends.

When the beer meets beach

Address: Lot 415, Batu Ferringhi, Batu Ferringhi, Penang Island 10100, Malaysia

Operating hour: Sun-Thu 12pm-1am; Fri-Sat 12pm-3am

The Canteen @ China House

The Canteen is one of our favourite chilling places in George Town. This is the place to bring your friends or relatives for a not-so-crazy night when they visit Penang. We love its live band, dark lightning and cool drinks served there.

Long bar, great ambiance

Address: 183b Lebuh Victoria George Town, Malaysia

Operating hour:Mon-Thu 8pm-12am; Fri 8pm-1am; Sat 3pm-1am; Sun 3pm-12am

Related: 23 café to visit once in your lifetime in Penang

Narrow Marrow

Only open from Friday to Sunday. Narrow Marrow is indeed a cool place to go with your buddies on Friday nights. It has a beautiful interior with great music selection within the café.

Do expect yourself in a somewhat secretive, retro and openly hip café. Whether it’s drinks or nibbles, give Narrow Marrow a chance to surprise you when you finally find it.

A cozy place for alternative vibe

Address: 252 A Carnavon Street George Town, Malaysia

Operating hour: Fri-Sun 14:00-01:00

Patio bar de tapas

With a Spanish-inspired menu, Patio offers you a comfy ambience for ultimate relaxation. This unique experience is perfectly complemented with our exquisite tapas selection and extensive drinks list that will blow you away.

Moreover, it’s ideal for Instagrammer who wants to add a pinch of serenity to their Instagram feed, as well as a taste for Spanish delicacies.

A getaway by the quays

Address: 49F weld quay, Georgetown Penang, Malaysia

Operating hour: Mon-Sun 5pm-1:30am

Antarabangsa Enterprise

Definitely the most unusual entry on this list. We meant this in a good way. Antarabangsa is known for its best rate of beer. The place is always packed with tourists as well as the locals. Come here and enjoy your night with your gang!

Reasonably priced chilled beers

Address: 21, Lorong Stewart, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating hour: Mon-Sat 2pm-2am; Sun 7:30am-10:30pm

Chill Bar & Refuge

Consider the CHILL Bar & Refuge if you just need a long night of fun talks with your gang. It’s an open-air bar located in an alley part of the Nagore Square. Rowdy crowds make themselves happy with big pitchers of beer, cocktails, and a smoker-friendly atmosphere.

Cool nightlife spot

Address: 55, Jalan Nagor, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating hour: 730pm-230am closed on Tuesday

Micke’s Place

Micke’s Place is the most happening spot for history buffs and beer lovers alike will find a home at this place at Love Lane. Here, you can spot a lot of tourists enjoying their beer and the amazing live music.

Fantastic place to sit out and enjoy

Address: 94, Lorong Love, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating hour: 12pm-3am

Mish Mash is inspired by the sidewalk bistro bars of Europe. It’s a modern bistro with an Asian touch to represent it’s Penang roots and values.

For local cocktails lovers, this is the only place in town. In addition, this watering hole features over more than 80 different varieties of whiskies sourced from different parts of the globe.

For cocktails lovers

Address: 24, Jalan Muntri, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating hour: 5pm-12am closed on Monday

1945 is also our favourite gathering spot at night. Weekend nights promise large and lively crowds and a superb live band. The live band’s singing is pleasant to the ear and sometimes funny. Also, we love how they interact with the crowd too.

Elevated bar food such as western food, fries, and snacks is served alongside a drinks menu of mostly beers and a modest list of wine. Oh friends, you can just drink and chill if you so desire.

Music and Beer

Address: 10200, 414-416, Lebuh Chulia, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating hour: 5pm-2am

Guide: Nightlife in Penang (10 places to chill at)

When the sun goes down, the stars come out, this lovely little island really comes alive with a different kind of vibe as compared to its morning atmosphere. Today we bring you what we think are the best place for a drink and unwind with your buddies.

If you love today’s blog, do share it with your friends!

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Now Read: 13 Awards That Prove Penang Is The Greatest City Ever

nice guide 🙂

Been to Micke’s Place in Penang the best and the most night life happening they provide the entertainment for the whole of Love Lane bars and pub and also the owners are very hands on we had a fabulous two months there. Brovo!

Don’t forget the best rooftop club in Penang!

THREE SIXTY REVOLVING RESTAURANT AND ROOFTOP BAR 25-A Lebuh Farquhar 10200 George Town PULAU PINANG 04-261 3540 https://360rooftop.com.my/

BUSINESS HOURS

Monday 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday 4:00 AM – 1:00 AM – Eves of Public Holidays 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM

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• 40 Places to visit in Penang

Tourist Places in Penang

Quick navigation, must visit places in penang, batu ferringhi beach.

Batu Ferringhi Beach is an adventure land where you can get your adrenalin racing while on a leisure holiday. The availability of Jet Skis and Parasailing sports by the seaside is a major lure that pulls every tourist who visits this town in Penang. Apart from just laying around the beach and taking a sunbath, other things you can do here are getting a buggy ride on the golden sand, go deep sea fishing or revel in a banana boat ride. Location: 11km from City Center, George Town Timings: A few hours before sunset is apt so that you have enough time to beach stuff and adventure sports before watching the mesmeric sunset. Click Here to Checkout & Book  Wet World Water Park Shah Alam Tickets You can also checkout  Kuala Lumpur Attractions

Penang Butterfly Park, Entopia

If you haven’t had the chance to connect with the charm of nature in a long time, then Entopia Penang Butterfly Park should be on your list of places to visit in Penang. This farm houses over 4,000 butterflies of about 150 species, each more ecstatic than the other drifting one into a fairytale land. You can watch plenty of butterflies flutter around in freedom at the Natureland, or visit the cocoon, the abode for their little ones breathe into life. Location: Jalan Teluk Bahang Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Book Now:  Entopia Tickets

Penang House of Music

It is no surprise how much emphasis Penang lays on exhibiting its rich culture and heritage; the Penang House of Music is one such place where one can get in sync with their musical tradition. The presence of a resource centre where music enthusiasts can learn more about Penang’s melodious history makes it more attention-grabbing than it already is. Testifying its name aptly, one can listen to music that belongs to several countries in the world including Indian folk and Chinese Opera. Location: Level 3, KOMTAR Jalan Penang Timings: 11.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m. You can also check out & book  Petronas Towers Tickets

Glass Museum Penang

Choose to visit the Glass Museum Penang during your visit, and you are sure to rave about its build and beauty for the rest of your life. Pictures from your trip cannot get any better than when clicked in this museum where you can confuse the image when standing in the large kaleidoscope. The display of items made from recycled glass is creativity personified. You could excel in it too if you partake in the craft class and take it back home as an irreplaceable memory. Location: Jalan Burma, Geroge Town Timings: 09.30 a.m. to 06.00 p.m.; 09.30 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. on Saturday (Closed on Sundays) Also Check out & Book:  Menara Kuala Lumpur Tickets

The Top Komtar Penang

Theme parks and entertainment needn’t be only from the outdoor roller coaster and water slides; the Top Komtar Penang is amongst those places to visit in Penang that entertainment to great heights, literally. This tall building conducts entertainment activities like Magic Mirror Maze, 7D Discovery Motion Theatre, Ocean Explorer, Window of the Top, DanceOki, Rainbow Skywalk, etc. Keep yourself full by stopping by at one of the several restaurants in-between all the fun. Location: Jalan Penang, George Town Timings: 11.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m.; 11.00 a.m. to 09.00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday   Recommended Read: Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

Kek Lok Si is a wonderful Buddhist temple built in away from Penang’s shore. This architectural structure that is a haven for Buddhist pilgrims and Chinese teachings houses a large Buddha statue apart from thousands of his pictures, more than a hundred carvings, and some sculptures making it a traditional home for both Mahayana Buddhism and Theravada Buddhism. You can only imagine the backdrop that this scenic temple has considering it is built in the hill station on the foot of Air Itam Mountain. The ponds hurling with fishes and the lush gardens add to the equanimity of this place. Location: 3km from Penang Hill Station Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Also Explore:  Things to do in KL Click Here to Checkout & Book: Zoo Negara Tickets Y ou can also checkout  99 Wonderland Park Ticket Price

Tropical Spice Garden

This is a place for all those who want to off-beat things when away on a trip to Penang. The garden that once used to be a rubber plantation has now transformed into an aromatic spice garden where there is a lot to learn about the 500 species of flora and fauna for enthusiasts. You can walk around the natural trails that also cross waterfalls while you explore this award-winning garden with a guided tour. Try your hands at the cooking classes that teach how to cook using those spices to create a delightful dish. The shop in the garden could also gift you with a plant if you are in luck. A night walk in this rainforest is also an enthralling experience to watch some nocturnal plants and animals. Location: Lone Crag Villa, Jalan Teluk Bahang Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. You can also check out & book  Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary Tickets

Best of Dubai

Teddyville Museum

The Teddyville Museum is indeed just as amazing as it sounds where you can witness the joy of being around our childhood furry friends have a whole building to themselves. This enchanting teddy world has the leading collection of teddy bears, which also recite the magnificent history of Penang in the most delightful way that makes learning easy and cute! Spare some time, and learn the art of making a teddy bear in this museum which would make the most lovable gift you can give to your dearest ones. Location: DoubleTree Resort Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Suggested Read:   Adventurous Things to do in KL

Penang National Park

Penang National Park breaks the stigma around a national park being about plentiful animals and long jungles. This smallest national park in Malaysia is all about exploring nature by walking in its trails where you can spot some animals like monkeys and giant lizards. Here’s the amazing part- it all leads to a beach! That is one of a kind, where you get to sunbathe in almost privacy, swing on the beachside, visit the lighthouse and picnic. The Kerachut beach here is home to thousands of turtles with whom you can spend some time if you are lucky in this Malaysia park

Location: Pejabat Taman Negara P. Pinang, George Town Timings: 07.30 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. You can also check out KL Tower Mini Zoo Ticket Price

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The blue mansion tip-top with flawless infrastructure has won several awards and is recognized by the UNESCO for conserving the heritage. It has even won accolades for being amongst the best Penang tourist places. Dig deeper to be mesmerized by the history of this mansion. One can stay in one of the thirty-eight rooms looking chic in their Anglo-Indian design that looks no less than a traditional five-star setting. Location: 14 Leith Street, George Town Timings: 11.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m.; 02.00 p.m. to 03.00 p.m.; 03.030 p.m. to 04.30 p.m. Must Know:   Things to do in Malaysia

Clan Jetties

A lot many people from China had moved to Penang centuries ago, and the Clan Jetties is home to the last set of them. You will find here six jetties (houses) floating on water that signify six villages made up of wood and aluminium. It is a spectacle to watch the stilt houses out which the Chew Jetti is recommended as most tourist friendly. A temple in the region is also one of the amusing things you can see here. This settlement of the 19th century is just like a normal village with shops and tasty food, but for the fact that it is erect on the water! Location: Pengkalan Weld Quay Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 09.00 p.m. Click Here to Checkout:  Splash Out Langkawi Ticket Price

Penang Floating Mosque

Penang Floating Mosque is just like any other typical mosque but for the uniqueness that it is built in the ocean water, making it stand out from the others. Built not so long ago in 2005, this is the only one that is built in the ocean water. An attraction of this mosque is that they allow people to swim around it when the tides are bearable to witness the underwater engineering that holds this religious building above water. The sound of the azaan, their call to prayer makes one dwell in the sanctity of their beliefs. Location: Tanjung Bungah Timings: 05.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. Must know:   Places to visit in Langkawi Get Great Deals On  Madame Tussauds Sydney Tickets

Tropical Fruit Farm

You might have visited all kinds of farms, but the opportunity to visit a huge farm spread across several acres that grow over 250 of the 370 edible fruits that grow in Malaysia can be grabbed only at the Tropical Fruit Farm in Penang. One doesn’t just get to watch the process of growing organic fruits but is also permitted to try their hands at it or get a taste of them. Feel free to ask the workers there just about anything about this entire process, and they will jump at the chance to edify you about it. Location: Jalan Teluk Bahang, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. Entry Fee: RM 10 (free for children) Recommended Read:  Places to visit in Malaysia Get Great Deals On  Leaning Tower Of Pisa Tickets

Penang Hill

The cluster of several mountain peaks, the view of the jungle, the city and the coastline ahead of it and the train ride of the longest track in Asia and steepest track in the world together put Penang Hill on the list of places to visit in Penang. It is a refreshing break from the tropical climate of Malaysia with a fresh atmosphere of cool air. Location: 9km from George Town Timings: Most attractions on Penang Hill shut down by 07.00 p.m. The last train from the hilltop leaves at 11.00 p.m. Entry Fee: You do not have to pay to visit Penang Hill, but you will have to buy a ticket for the funicular train which varies for children, groups, senior citizens, round trips, school trips, disabled people and fast lane. You can also check out:  Malaysia Tour Package

Best of Singapore

Dhammikarna Burmese Temple

The Dhammikarna Burmese Temple is the only Burmese Buddha temple outside Myanmar and has statues of his meditation pose at every end of this temple. The eccentric story of Buddha is conveyed through the frescoes that you will witness as you walk inside this serene atmosphere where there is also a Bodhi Tree and a wishing pond. One can spot the life of the monks for they live in apartments inside this very temple.  Make sure you remove your shoes before entering as a mark of respect. Location: Lorong, Burmah Timings: 05.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m Also Checkout:  Batu Caves Tour Package Also Checkout and Book:  Nasrid Palaces Tickets

Penang State Museum and Art Gallery

This 1821 colonial building is like entering into the doors of the ancient times because every corner right from the gate onwards narrates the history of Penang. Holding a significant place in the Penang tourist places, this museum is a treasure of galleries, artefacts, creativity, and costumes which express the events from the past in a manner that one can easily relate to. The addition of structures inside that display the traditional houses and marriage centres in those times is a wonderful piece of art to adore. Location: Lebuh Farquhar, Geroge Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. (Closed on Fridays) Click Here to Checkout:  Petrosains KLCC Ticket Price

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

For all those who cannot get enough of learning about the cultures in the world, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion will seem like a house of joy for you. This museum is dedicated to retelling the history of the Peranakan people who are otherwise referred to as Strait Chinese. History claims that they moved to Malaysia several years ago and are a blend of Chinese and Malay cultures. You can find everything about this story, age-old artefacts and constructions depicting their past lives in this mansion. Location: Church Street, George Town Timings: 09.30 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. Entry Fee: RM 20 (Free entry for children below six years) Also Checkout:  What to do in Langkawi Must Read:  Gold Coast Cruises

What makes City Mall different from the many others is the unique interior that gives a tropical look and feels to the mall with water bodies and palm trees that even allow some outdoor ventilation. It is a fun place to shop when you want to keep away from the regular tourist places. Location: Tanjung Tokong Also Explore:  Indoor activities in KL

Arulnigu Karumariamman Temple

The massive temple spread across a huge piece of land, the Indianness in its interiors and the sculptors inside make this visit a worthy one. One cannot miss the beautiful colors used to make this temple or the literal traditions of tying fresh mango leaves at the entrance. Inappropriate clothing and photography without permission are frowned upon by devotees of this temple. Location: Jalan Todak You may also checkout:    Water Sports in Langkawi Click Here to Book Now:  Kidzania Dubai Tickets

Penang Wonderfood Museum

Penang Wonderfood Museum is true to its name, a ‘food museum’ that is one-of-a-kind and explicitly marvellous. This building is dedicated to glorifying the food culture of Penang by creating large plastic models of the food that this place is known for. Not just that, you will also find a list of places where you can find those delicious dishes around Penang. The exhibit looks so appealing, that one is sure to leave with a grumbling stomach craving for food by the time you walk out. Location: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Entry Fee: RM25 for adults and RM15 for children and senior citizens. Click Here to Checkout the  Underwater World Langkawi Price

Places to Visit with Kids & Family in Penang

Escape theme park.

This is the first theme park launched in Penang that is entertaining people with thrilling adventures and a water park. The natural environment around that sway with the wind in the area uplifts the theme park experience, especially when you go bungee jumping. Apart from a lazy pool and water slides like other theme parks, this premises also conducts other adventures like flying fox, Go Ape, Gecko Tower, and Monkey Business which are all fancy names for activities like rock climbing, crossing suspension bridges and climbing uphill on a seat. Location: Jalan Teluk Bahang Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. (Closed on Monday) Click Here to Checkout:  Sunway Lagoon Ticket Price

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Penang 3D Trick Art Museum

Penang 3D Trick Art Museum is for all those who love to click pictures until the phone’s battery dies; here you can do just that, but by tricking the viewer. The museum has been designed in a manner where one can click pictures with several structures that may seem ordinary, but have a catch to make things original when you see them in an image. Every corner is filled with murals as well as life-size figures that make it more exciting and ingenious. Location: Penang Street, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m.; 09.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday You can also checkout:   Aquaria KLCC Price

Adventure Zone

You could have a tough time getting your kids out of here once you take them to the Adventure Zone, but, it is worth it. It is an indoor adventure place for every growing child, toddlers, children and teens who can be accompanied by their parents. From drop slides, net-bridges, and playground to a ball fountain and outdoor games, this air-conditioned children’s dreamland is worth every penny! The good news? You only have to pay for your children, and your entry is free! Location: Golden Sands Resort Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. You can also check out  Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi Ticket Price

Made In Penang Interactive Museum

Taking a tour of this museum is possibly the most fun Penang things to do. Situated within the vicinity of the historical Behn Meyer building, this museum displays 3-D trick art, paintings, murals and much more. It is a two-storey structure which showcases works of local artists with themes of the Penang lifestyle. While here, do not forget to capture many trick-shots and almost unreal photographs. Location: 10, Lebuh Penang, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Timing: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 PM | Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am - 8:00 pm. Entry Fee: - Adults - RM 35 - Kids (3 to 12 years old) - RM 25

Kapitan Keling Mosque

Witness the pulchritude of sunset that reflects oh-so-perfectly on the arches and minarets of the Kapitan Keling Mosque which is amongst the top-rated places to visit in Penang. The construction of the mosque has a lot of heads turning with their crystal chandeliers and big prayer hall complementing this white religious structure. Just like every other mosque, women who aren’t covered cannot enter the mosque. What was only a small initiative by the first Indian Muslims who moved to Malaysia has now become the largest mosque in Penang. Location: Jalan Buckingham Timings: 09.030 a.m. to 05.030 p.m. Also Check out & Book:  Langkawi Wildlife Park Tickets

Penang Bridge

Penang Bridge is much like the London Bridge for the residents of Penang who boast of this 13.5km long bridge that connects the island with the mainland. Since the ferry route became busier with a growing population, this suspension bridge was constructed to make more transport options available only to become the second-longest bridge in Malaysia. This bridge that is always swarming with people is where several significant marathons are held. A picture from this fifth-longest bridge in South Asia will surely send your way many thumbs ups! Location: Connects Seberang Perai with George Town Entry Fee: Toll starting from RM 1.40. Click here to check out the   Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi Ticket Price

Goddess of Mercy Temple

The Goddess of Mercy Temple is also called the Kuan Yin Teng which hails from the 1800s and is flocked by believers from around Malaysia every new year to seek blessings for a wonderful year ahead with prosperity and good health. Festival days are the best time to visit this temple because the entire temple comes to life with its puppet shows and other performances. The architecture of the temple, colorful decoration, and daily rituals make this a rightful choice in the places to visit in Penang. Location: Jalan Masid Kapitan Keling Timings: Early morning to 06.00 p.m. Click Here to check out the   Hop on Hop off KL Ticket Price

Penang Bird Park

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Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest

Spend a day of leisure at the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest that is packed with greenery and serenity. Walk by the completely safe forest area, ride a bike to cover the entire forest, or hike up the trails hidden inside. Many also love to camp there overnight, and the forest also rents out chalets for those who haven’t had enough of the sound of nature. Relax by the slow flowing stream and take a dip before you set off to cover the rest of the forest. It is indeed one of the most soothing Penang tourist places. Location: 8km from Bukit Mertajam Timings: 07.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. Also Checkout & Book:  Genting Highlands Day Tour

Penang Snake Temple

Just as its name sounds, the Penang Snake Temple is indeed a shelter for several snakes who came in even after the Chor Soo Kong left for the heavenly abode, in whose honor this temple was built. It is believed that he was a great healer and wanted to give the snakes a place to live. Also known as The Temple of Azure Cloud, this is one of the most attractive places to visit in Penang if you want to see snakes lay comfortably in their home. Location: 3km from Sungai Kluang, Bayan Lepas, 12km from George Town Timings: 06.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. Entry Fees: Free; RM 5 for adults and RM3 for children if you want to visit the Snake Farm. You can also checkout  Langkawi Cable Car Price

St. George’s Anglican Church

The blue marble flooring marvellously complements the white structure of St. George's Anglican Church you will find inside. It was designed by artist Captain Robert Smith who was very renowned for his paintings; those are still preserved in the State Museum next door. Being one of the oldest buildings built in this city, it is surely one of the places to visit in Penang to acquaint with the people. Location: Next to Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, Jalan Lebuh Farquhar Timings: 08.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 01.30 p.m. to 06.30 p.m. (Tuesday to Saturday); Open throughout the day on Sunday.

Straits Quay

Straits Quay is one of the latest additions to the shopping scenario in Penang; in fact, it is the only one that faces the sea, which makes for an amazing view while shopping. You will find an array of retail shops selling away to their hearts glory, soaking in all the energy from the winds from the shore. This shopping arena is mostly dominated by nail spas, hair spas, and boutiques, which makes it one of the ‘must visit’ Penang tourist places for the women. You can also dine with wine when here! Location: Jalan Seri Tanjung Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 01.00 a.m. (Up to midnight on Sunday)

Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

If you haven’t been to this most copacetic architecture building before called Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, then you haven’t been to Penang at all. Considered amongst the signature places to visit in Penang, this Chinese clanhouse is an anchorage for craft and architecture with stone carvings, sculptures, and lamps that adds the twinkle on this ornamented structure. It was the place of worship and meeting of those Chinese people who had the same surname and belief so that they could take their faith forward in harmony and unity. The whole idea was to emphasise the need to be there for the people of our community. Location: Cannon Square, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. (Closed on Sunday) Entry Fee: RM 10 for adults and RM 1 for children above five years.

The Youth Park is one of the popular places to visit with your family, especially your children owing to the various attractions it has in store. It is well-maintained and clean where one can picnic, sit under the shade of the trees, make friends with the monkeys, click photographs, jog, cycle, take a splash in the pool, children can unwind at the playground while you can lay on the lawn to catch up with fresh air. The indoor waterfall makes this a more visited place not just by tourists but also by the residents of Penang who need a one-day-picnic. Location: Persiaran Kuari, George Town Timings: 06.00 a.m. to 05.30 p.m.

Places to Visit in Penang at Night

Batu ferringhi night museum.

Who can get enough of shopping? You have had a very rushy sightseeing day, and haven’t gone enough of your shopping is done; then you should march straight to the Batu Ferringhi Night Museum where you can spend time till late at night. Even though the items sold here are not branded, people still love visiting the place for all the basic things like scarves, tops, and sunglasses at cheap rates. Location: Jalan Patai Batu Timings: 07.00 p.m. to 01.00 a.m.

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Three Sixty Rooftop Bar and Revolving Restaurant

Get a top view of Penang, the city, the lights and of course the sea from Three Sixty Rooftop Bar and Revolving Restaurant where you can get an intimate seating even with so many people around you. Widely known for its ambience, western cuisine, and cocktails & mocktails, this should surely be amongst the places to visit in Penang for dining. You can also choose to eat at the indoor air-conditioned setting, which offers everything as on the terrace. Location: Lebuh Farquhar, George Town Timings: 04.00 p.m. to 01.00 a.m. (Up to 02.00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday)

Hard rock Café

There’s nothing like night munching vibe in this radiance that perfectly suits the rock bands who love playing some classical music for their visitors. While a burger is the most common food item, it is just something else at this café; you must try it! Wear your best, and head to Hard Rock Café which has also preserved some possessions of famous musicians. Location: Jalan Batu Ferringhi Timings: 11.30 a.m. to 02.00 a.m. (Up to 02.30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday

Soho Free House

Get your dancing shoes on and party till as late as one would want to at Soho Free House. This pub is for every party-lover in the list of Penang tourist places. You wouldn’t find such a British-style pub anywhere else in George Town that attracts people with its décor, service, and food! You should try Shepherd’s Pie that they make here in a very traditional manner. Location: Jalan Penang, George Town Timings: 12.00 p.m. to 03.00 a.m

Gurney Drive

Don’t kill your late night cravings by just some water; take a ride on one of the best of the 25 streets in the world, Gurney Drive. This street is a boulevard for a line-up of street food from around the world and also encloses the hawker’s centre. Besides that, this Broadway also has the best restaurants and bars in town! Location: George Town

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Penang Top Attractions

Penang Hills is officially named Bukit Bendera, meaning Flagstaff Hill. Penang Hills was founded by Captain Francis Light, a British belonging to the East India Company, in the late 18th century. The hill was renamed Flagstaff Hill, much evident in its current name. The captain had done some deforestation for growing strawberries and hence, this place is sometimes referred to as Strawberry Hill.The Habitat Penang Hill is one of the best eco-tourism attractions with nature’s best and flourishing experiences. These experiences take you on a tour of Penang Hill’s prehistoric rainforests which are greener and older than Amazon rainforests. The tour of the tropical diverse ecosystem of Penang will make you experience exotic weather and 50% exceptional flora and fauna lying only in this place of the whole island. This makes you walk through the langur hay canopy and the infamous Ribbon bridge.The 13 meters high Curtis crest tree top walk is the highest point for the spectators to enjoy on Penang Island. The natural ecosystem of Penang is protected and maintained by a non-profit Habitat Foundation that safeguards biodiversity and forests.Click Here to Book: Habitat Penang Hill Tickets

If you are planning to visit Malaysia’s Penang, then Entopia Penang needs to be on your itinerary. In one of Malaysia’s largest butterfly farms, one can witness the stunning sight of more than 15,000 butterflies flying freely amidst natural settings of blooming flowers and rich vegetation. If you dare, you can also meet and greet the residents of Nature’s underground, like insects and creepy crawlies like snakes and scorpions.With more than 200 species of flora and over 150 species of fauna, Entopia recreates the natural tropical habitat of the numerous natural inhabitants. The park also aims to teach visitors about butterflies and other residents of the park through its various exhibits and face-to-face interactions with the creatures. There are also Nature Learning Activities like Nature Talk, Vita Nova, and Bug Exploration, where curious visitors are welcomed to explore more about the wild. Entopia Penang also has numerous activities and interactive exhibits designed especially for children, making it one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Malaysia.Click Her to Book: Entopia Tickets

Planning to have some excitement with your family and friends then head out to this gorgeous beach Teluk Bahang  in Penang and enjoy the rocky and the shady surroundings of the beach. This place is the perfect getaway for you as it is a bit isolated from the huge crowds which we usually find in the beaches.    Highlights: If you are a nature lover then this is the best place for you as it is the home of Penang Butterfly Farm. You can enjoy the view of the beautiful landscape and also go on the trekking after  enjoying a sunbath. You can also enjoy the mouthwatering seafood which is served there in the restaurants.  Best Season: May to October  Location: North western tip of the Island Penang.    

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Best Penang Night Market To Visit on the Island

Home → Penang

Exploring a Penang night market is one of our favourite ways to end a day on the island. Besides experiencing the local nightlife through restaurants and bars, Asian night markets tend to show you a different side of the hustle and bustle. In Malaysia, Penang you'll find some of the best local delicacies in these night markets.

Unlike most evening bazaars in Malaysia, the ones on this island mainly exist to entertain your tastebuds with culinary delights. Therefore, they are perfect for those who travel with their stomach as a compass. A lot of international tourists don't know about these night stalls so you're in for a real treat on getting some of the best bites in town.

After our own foodie adventures at night, here's our list of the top spots worth visiting and the days they're open.

The majority of these Penang night markets aren't open every day. We found that the most reliable way to make sure they're open is to check their social media pages as well as Google reviews. So far, this has helped us travel in Asia and avoid disappointment.

Sunday Penang Night Market

Thursday penang night market, friday penang night market, saturday penang night market , penang night markets.

• Kimberley Street Night Market Penang

This is an ideal place to immerse yourself in a lively atmosphere while savouring good food. We suggest visiting around 4-5 PM for a more relaxing and crowd-free experience. Furthermore, this Penang street food night market is within walking distance from other attractions like Komtar and the Upside Down Museum.

Among its famous hawker dishes are Duck Kway Chap and Char Koay Teow. These meals are best paired with Shi Gua Th'ng, or Leng Chee Kang, which is a refreshing lotus seed soup. Additionally, you can try a variety of sweet desserts at the Traditional Home of Desserts located there. One of their must-tries is a satisfyingly smooth, thick, and sweet Almond Soup with Ginko Nuts. 

Kimberley Street Food 1, Jalan Sungai Ujong, George Town, 10100 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

• Batu Ferringhi Night Market

Batu Ferringhi houses some of the best Penang night attractions , including a vibrant bazaar serving as a shopping paradise. Along the 1-kilometre stretch of stalls, you'll find clothing, accessories, souvenirs, toys, and more. Here, you can unleash your negotiating skills and secure items at a reasonable price. 

However, please note the number of stalls has dwindled since the pandemic years. While there are plenty to do here, don’t expect it to be as lively as the photos or videos you’ve seen from the past.

Make sure to prepare some cash if you plan on shopping here, as most stalls do not accept card payments. Once you're done with your shopping quests, you can check out the hawker stalls at Long Beach Café. It is our favourite place on the strip to get Char Koay Teow and chicken satay. 

Batu Ferringhi Night Market Jalan Pantai Batu, Taman Pantai Batu, 11200 Tanjong Bungah, Penang, Malaysia

• Paya Terubong Night Market

This Penang night market is less known among tourists, and the stalls mostly cater to the locals. Therefore, you won't be engulfed by a big crowd and can explore the spot more easily. So, trust us when we say this spot will not disappoint you if your main visit agenda is to indulge in Penang street food .

You should try the Laksa and Char Koay Kak during your visit. The savoury and soft rice cake makes a great snack as you wander through the stalls. However, we suggest finding a good spot to sit and enjoy the hot and flavourful laksa. 

Pasar Malam Paya Terubong  122I, Jln Paya Terubung, Bandar Baru Air Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Penang, Malaysia

• Nibong Tebal Night Market

This evening bazaar is on the mainland and is one of the biggest night markets in Penang. The exceptionally long market boasts an array of mouthwatering delicacies like Kueh Teow Soup, Nasi Lemak, and tangy Assam Laksa. However, the stalls predominantly cater to Chinese people, so most of the food here is not halal. Nonetheless, we still the area is worth visiting to check out the interesting lineup of stores offering various items.

We suggest allocating your whole Sunday evening here since it can take up to five hours to get from one end to the other. It is also better to allocate your daytime hours in Nibong Tebal to ensure an early arrival to this foodie haven. Lastly, we recommend getting there via Grab or via public transportation since it can be difficult to find a parking spot.

Pasar Malam Nibong Tebal 14, Jalan Sungai Daun, Taman Nibong Tebal Jaya, 14300 Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia

• Balik Pulau Night Market

This place is a literal food paradise due to its huge variety of culinary delights. You'll find this bustling bazaar next to a mosque known as Masjid Daerah Barat Daya. Starting from 5 PM you can easily wander through the stalls since the area is quite spacious. 

Despite being a spot catered to Malays, it will astound you with its diverse cuisines. Some of the best-selling dishes there are Char Kuey Teow, fried rice, and satay. There is also the iconic Ramly burger stall where you can get your Malaysian burger craving fixed. We recommend trying the beef bone soup for a hot and comforting option. 

Pasar Malam Balik Pulau Jalan Balik Pulau, Kampung Permatang Tengah, 11000 Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia

Macallum Street Night Market 

This night market in Penang is popular among locals and tourists alike for its tasty offerings. You can get crispy Apam Balik, long cheesy fries, and curry puffs or go for treats like waffles and pancakes. This evening bazaar is also our favourite spot to buy tropical fruits like mangosteens and durians.

We love shopping at this Penang street food night market since the goods are cheaper than in other bazaars. Plus, allocating an hour is more than enough since it is quite easy to navigate through the crowds. Although the stands officially open at 5 PM, we recommend arriving around 6-7 PM, when most stalls are already up and running.  

Macallum Street Night Market Lintang Macallum 1, Pengkalan Weld, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

• Kampung Melayu Monday Night Flea Market

Make your way to this Penang night market for budget-friendly Malay delicacies. If you love Malay cuisine, this food-centric bazaar will thrill your tastebuds with dishes like satay, nasi lemak, and laksa. The street foods offered here are halal, as the bazaar mainly caters to Malays and Muslims. 

You should try the Mee Rebus and enjoy some sweet tapai with cendol while you're here. We also suggest visiting this night market in Penang during Ramadan for a livelier atmosphere and more food options. 

Pasar Malam Kampong Melayu Jalan Pisang Raja, Kampung Melayu, 11500 Ayer Itam, Penang, Malaysia

• Tanjung Bungah Night Market

Head over to this bazaar for an exciting Tuesday evening gastronomical adventure. The night market in Penang is renowned for tasty snacks like Putu Mayong and Char Koay Kak. However, our favourite choice for dinner here is Nasi Kerabu, with some refreshing sugarcane juice. The combination of a flavourful blue rice dish and a sweet drink is truly exceptional.

In addition to local delicacies, you can also indulge in international snacks here. Our favorites are xiao long bao and aligot. The former is soft Chinese soup dumplings, while the latter is an addictive French snack made of potato and cheese.

Tanjung Bu n gah Market Jalan Tanjung Bungah, Taman Tanjung Bunga, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang, Malaysia

• Teluk Kumbar Weekly Night Market

This night market in Penang offers a delightful mix of goods, street foods, and fresh fruits. If you are seeking recommendations, try the comforting Bihun Soup. Then, indulge in some sweet and creamy cendol for the dessert. We had these during our visit to the bazaar, and they made an unforgettable dinner for us.

If you plan on arriving there early, you can dedicate your day to adventures in Teluk Kumbar. We suggest taking advantage of your visit by catching the sunset at the Sunset Viewpoint nearby.

Teluk Kumbar Weekly Market Bandar Baru Telok Kumbar, 11000 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia

• Farlim Night Market

Farlim is another one of the biggest night markets in Penang, situated near Kek Lok Si temple. Instead of running along a street, this street food spot operates on an open field. You'll be welcomed by tons of food trucks serving various tasty options like salted fish, steamed bao and pineapple tarts. It also has a famous pizza food truck known as Frankie Pizza. We absolutely love their Hawaiian chicken pizza.

Shopping-wise, you can find affordable faux leather handbags, toys, and wooden crafts. However, note that the items' prices here are slightly higher than in other bazaars. So this is why, we suggest only spending on items that are hard to find elsewhere, such as handmade souvenirs and wooden crafts.

Farlim Night Market 27-75, Medan Angsana, Bandar Baru Ayer Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Penang, Malaysia

• Taman Pantai Jerjak Night Market

The street stalls here specifically cater to the locals residing within the vicinity, especially those who prefer grocery shopping in the evening. Therefore, you will find many vendors selling vegetables and fruits here. Nonetheless, the night market in Penang is a must-visit for food lovers as it offers many good eats.

This evening bazaar has gained recognition for its legendary Cucur Udang (prawn fritters) stall. It is located next to an Apam Balik stall, which is equally tasty, so we recommend getting both snacks. You must also stop by the Satay Pantai Timur stall and try their juicy satays. 

Pasar Malam Pantai Jerjak 15, Jalan Pantai Jerjak 14, Taman Pantai Jerjak, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia

• Sungai Batu Night Market

Sungai Batu bazaar is another local market frequented by those living within Teluk Kumbar. The bazaar has a lot of gastronomical gems to offer despite its lack of popularity. Check out the stalls here to indulge in tasty Malay foods without facing the crowds. 

We visited the place after stopping by the nearby Sungai Batu Seaside for some photos. Out of all the snacks that we've tried, the most memorable treat was the Durian Doughnuts. It was a soft, fluffy doughnut with a creamy durian filling that tasted exactly like the fruit.

Pasar Malam Sungai Batu Lintang Sungai Batu, Taman Teluk Kumbar, 11950 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia

Bayan Baru Night Market 

This is another destination to explore for cheap local foods, particularly Malay dishes. Hence, many Malay families hang out here for some tasty dinner. Therefore, we suggest arriving early or by 5:30 PM to secure parking and dinner spots.

While various street foods are offered, people usually go for Nasi Kerabu and Yong Tau Foo. The Yong Tau Foo left a lasting impression on us with its spicy Tom Yum soup base. This dish, paired with some fresh orange juice, made the experience all the more enjoyable. 

Pasar Malam Bayan Baru 24, Lorong Mahsuri 7, Bayan Baru, 11950 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia

• Jelutong Night Market

Not sure what to do in Penang on a Friday evening? Then, head to Pasar Malam Jelutong, or Pasar Malam Van Praagh, where you will be delighted by mouthwatering Asian delicacies. It is among the best places to enjoy Nasi Kandar in Penang . 

This place is also well-loved by the locals for Muar Chee, a Chinese dessert with peanuts and sugar fillings. Interestingly, you'll also find unique items like antiques, furniture, and garden appliances sold here. Traditional medicine and incense are also available at this lively night market in Penang.

Pasar Malam Van Praagh Taman Continental, 11600 Jelutong, Penang, Malaysia

• Sungai Dua Night Market

This foodie spot is located close to the outskirts of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). Among foodies, the Penang night market is known for its wide selection of Malay, Indian, and Chinese street food. You can enjoy delicacies like kebabs, Chee Cheong Fun, and laksa. 

There are some amazing stalls here selling sweet desserts like baked goods, homemade sweets, and shaved ice. However, our favourite ending to our meals here is a refreshing cup of sugarcane juice. The stands run from 5 PM, but it is best to go after 7 PM when most stalls are fully set up. 

Pasar Malam Sungai Dua 1, Jalan Sungai Dua, Sungai Dua, 13800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia

Batu Lanchang 

Also known as Food Truck Party, this night market in Penang stands out among the others with its food options. It has over 20 food trucks offering international cuisines like Korean, Japanese, Italian, American, and Middle Eastern. Hence, this is the perfect spot to enjoy tteokbokki, takoyaki, pizza, or even steaks alongside the local vibe. 

We love getting milk tea from a stall called Teadora to pair with our meals. As for dessert, our pick is Cake Time's Berry Berry Cheesecake. In fact, this Penang night market usually gets flooded with visitors as soon as it opens. So, make sure to arrive early to secure a dinner spot.

Supper at Batu Lanchang @ Food Truck Party 21, Lebuhraya Batu Lancang, Jelutong, 11600 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

• Macallum Street Night Market
• Bayan Baru Night Market
• Batu Lanchang

Of all the bazaars we've mentioned, our two favourites are the ones in Batu Ferringhi and Balik Pulau. We love the one in Batu Ferringhi due to its vibrant atmosphere, meanwhile Balik Pulau market provides endless food options. 

This iconic island has a lot to offer. So, follow us on Instagram @tabitogether to unlock more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. 

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The 8 Best Night Markets in Penang You Can Visit the Whole Week

Where to find the most exciting night markets in Penang? We’ve covered the best ones for you, one per every day of the week. Bring your bargaining skills, leave your credit card at home, and start shopping like a Penang local .

There’s a lot of things to do in Penang : from experiencing George Town’s vibrant nightlife , chase Penang famous street art , to lazying on at least 20 great beaches , exploring the shops and temples of Penang Little India , or going out in nature at  Penang National Park at Teluk Bahang , most tourists have their hands full.

Don’t forget all the  things to do in Penang with kids , including climbing at the 65th floor of  The Top Komtar , with its Rainbow Skywalk.

But what if you wanted to go a little bit more local, avoiding all those Penang Western Food places that many tourists love? We suggest you visit one of Penang Pasar Malam , or “Night Markets”. It’s something you will cherish if you have a taste for loud, boisterous fun and delicious street food such as the famous Penang laksa . You won’t find other things, such as interesting books on Malaysia , here.

Imagine strolling on a balmy evening, the sun is setting, noise, people… lots of people, indeed… smoke and fumes wafting from charred grills churning satay and ayam percik, the local meat delicacies. If what you want is an authentic, scruffy Penang, you can find it all here, at one of Penang Night Markets — don’t forget that to some, they are considered the best places to shop in Penang (besides its many shopping malls , grocery stores and alternative boutiques and markets , by the way). The antithesis to the air-conditioned shopping mall experience (where, however, it’s easy to get a Tourist SIM Card for Malaysia ), Penang night markets are hot, uncomfortable places where you’ll find the best bargains and stunning street food (here’s our guide to getting started with Penang food , by the way). Penang Night Markets are a must go for tourists and locals alike.

Article Contents

Why Visit Penang Night Markets?

We’ve visited some of the best markets on the island and gave you a day by day, Monday to Sunday, weekend list of the best Penang Night Markets. They all are similar, yet each has a distinctive character that makes it worth visiting… just try them all.

Pasar Malam in Penang for Every Day of the Week

1 monday penang night market:  maccalum street night market .

Maccallum is a huge night market on the fringes of George Town. It may not be the kind of location on anyone’s bucket list, but it’s large, eclectic, and has that typical Penang feel that reflects in the way it’s sprawled all over adjoining streets and roadside nooks — not to mention that you could be run over by cars, since this market is not exclusive to the humble pedestrians. Plenty of food options are to be found here, with all the usual favourites plus some weird additions, such as crafted ice cream, moulded and decorated into the cute faces of cats. For those big people who can’t find their size of underwear in any of  Penang’s shops, please know that there’s a huge selection of bra’s, knickers and more “exotic” stuff on sale here. For this reason alone, Maccallum Night Market is quite an interesting place.

Every Monday, 7 pm onwards

2 Tuesday Penang Night Market: Tanjung Bungah Night Market

Tucked next to the wet market and bus depot of Tanjung Bungah, this market is very popular with local and expats alike. Parking is an absolute nightmare here, so we highly recommend to get there by anything but your own car. At the time of our visit, it was Durian season, and it was impossible to escape the sight, and of course, the pungent smell of the King of Fruits. This was also more or less the highlight, as this market is a bit timid compared to others, perhaps trying to fit a bit too much with the laidback nature of the area. However, should you live in the vicinity of the Tanjung Tokong and Tanjung Bungah districts, this market is a godsend  — you won’t need to head into town or beyond, and you’ll experience something quintessentially local. Say hello to pizza uncle, who does nasty but tasty and crispy frisbees topped with cheese. Italians may cry, but here in Penang, these people and their weird food concoctions are our national treasures.

Every Tuesday, from 5.30 pm

3 Wednesday Night Market in Penang: Farlim Night Market

Farlim is a very busy residential area in Penang , and for this reason, its market boasts a wide variety of great foods. You should definitely try the salted fish bao and pineapple tarts, better washed down with the fresh pineapple juice on sale here. The Tau Fu Fa, a Chinese pudding-like dessert, is also pretty good here. Meat lovers may enjoy the Thai style BBQ pork skewers and fried chicken, or grilled chicken served into juicy Ramli burgers. Don’t forget to get a bag of crunchy keropok lekok (fish crackers) .

4 Thursday Penang Night Market: Batu Ferringhi Night Market

This market is actually a true eyesore if you consider its location near the beach and right next to the sole congested main road. But the local traders have been around for many years, and they’re still going from strength to strength. The offerings are more directed to tourists, who are always looking to fill the remaining space in their suitcase with junk. There is an unimaginable range of stuff to be found here, but if you take your time and look around closely, you’ll come across some hidden gems. And that is what makes this market worth going at least once. Make sure that after you’re done, you hit any of the nearby beach bars, dig your toes in the sand, and enjoy what this part of Penang is known for.

Daily, 7 pm onwards

5 Friday Penang Night Market: Jelutong Night Market in Jalan Van Praagh

This is one of Penang’s biggest night markets, spread along Taman Kheng Tian and Jalan Van Praagh. Definitely set up to cater to the locals in the area, it sells mostly household items, electronics and daily use stuff — but it’s also well known for its many food stalls. You should try the hokkien mee, putu mayong, nasi tomato, nasi kandar, Muar chee (a special Chinese sweet made of glutinous rice, peanut and sugar), nyonya kuih and a lot more delicacies. It’s best to come here on a very empty stomach.

Every Friday, 6 pm onwards

Penang Night Markets for the Weekend

6 sungai dua night market.

Set near Tesco Extra in Sungai Dua, close to the vibrant area surrounding Universiti Sains Malaysia, this simple street market runs along the main Sungai Dua road and down two parallel backstreets. Besides cheap clothes and electronics, The Sungai Dua Penang Night Market is a good option to try the food and also buy fruits — different seasons have different bargains, from durian to mangoes, bananas and mangosteens. The perk here is the people, who are not just your general Penangites, but also many foreign students (particularly from Islamic nations) and youngsters who come here for the wide variety of foods on offer, and the chance to hop over the road and browse Tesco’s goods — an unsavoury, but popular local past-time.

Every Saturday and Sunday, 6 pm onwards

7 Paya Terubong Night Market

Open on Sundays, this smaller Penang Night Market set not far away from the iconic Buddhist Temple complex Kek Lok Si  mostly caters to locals and sells household items and cheap goods from Mainland China. However, it also has a reputation for its food stalls, which include laksa, char koay kak, and noodles. Mind the special rojak, which here is served uniquely on a skewer, and not on a plate.

Every Sunday, 6 pm onwards

8 Lebuh Keng Kwee Heritage Night Market

The latest kid on the block of Penang Night markets only opened on the 1st of June 2019, probably in a bet to revitalize the street life of nearby Penang Road during weekends. In the day time, Lebuh Keng Kwee hosts the most famous cendol stall in George Town, where long lines of people and some cars are always found waiting for this refreshing local snack (check out another of the desserts we love, roti bakar ). But as of late, on Saturdays and Sundays from 6 pm, this place turns into a pleasant night market with plenty to be found. What sets this market apart from the rest is, you guessed, the music: in fact, in a bet to attract tourism, this new Penang Night Market features a number of local artists playing their favourite tunes.

The shopping on offer here is also a bit different from the rest of “mainstream” Penang Night Markets. For example, you may find artists selling their handicrafts and artworks. Though they call this a Heritage Market, the goods on sale here are pretty much very contemporary, including the series of questionably tacky, flashy, and noisy souvenirs that still find a wealth of buyers. Street food compliments the ambience, making this a decent choice to dine out, too.

Every Saturday and Sunday, from 6 pm onwards.

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Watch CBS News

Why is looking at a solar eclipse dangerous without special glasses? Eye doctors explain.

By Sara Moniuszko

Edited By Allison Elyse Gualtieri

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 8:54 AM EDT / CBS News

The solar eclipse will be visible for millions of Americans on April 8, 2024, making many excited to see it — but how you watch it matters, since it can be dangerous for your eyes. 

A  solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking the sun's light . When the moon blocks some of the sun, it's a partial solar eclipse, but when moon lines up with the sun, blocking all of its light, a total solar eclipse occurs,  NASA explains . Either way, you need eye protection when viewing.

"The solar eclipse will be beautiful, so I hope that everyone experiences it — but they need to experience it in the right way," said Dr. Jason P. Brinton, an ophthalmologist and medical director at Brinton Vision in St. Louis.

Here's what to know to stay safe.

Why is looking at a solar eclipse dangerous?

Looking at the sun — even when it's partially covered like during an eclipse — can cause eye damage.

There is no safe dose of solar ultraviolet rays or infrared radiation, said  Dr. Yehia Hashad , an ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and the chief medical officer at eye health company Bausch + Lomb.

"A very small dose could cause harm to some people," he said. "That's why we say the partial eclipse could also be damaging. And that's why we protect our eyes with the partial as well as with the full sun."

Some say that during a total eclipse, it's safe to view the brief period time when the moon completely blocks the sun without eye protection. But experts warn against it. 

"Totality of the eclipse lasts only about 1 to 3 minutes based on geographic location, and bright sunlight suddenly can appear as the moon continues to move," notes an eclipse viewing guide published in JAMA , adding, "even a few seconds of viewing the sun during an eclipse" can temporarily or permanently damage your vision. 

Do I need special glasses for eclipse viewing?

Yes.  Eclipse glasses are needed to protect your eyes if you want to look at the eclipse.

Regular sunglasses aren't protective enough for eclipse viewing — even if you stack more than one. 

"There's no amount of sunglasses that people can put on that will make up for the filtering that the ISO standard filters and the eclipse glasses provide," Brinton said.

You also shouldn't look at the eclipse through a camera lens, phone, binoculars or telescope, according to NASA, even while wearing eclipse glasses. The solar rays can burn through the lens and cause serious eye injury.

Eclipse glasses must comply with the  ISO 12312-2 international safety standard , according to NASA, and should have an "ISO" label printed on them to show they comply. The American Astronomical Society  has a list  of approved solar viewers.

Can't find these, or they're sold out near you? You can also  make homemade viewers ,   which allow you to observe the eclipse indirectly — just don't accidentally look at the sun while using one.

How to keep kids safe during the solar eclipse

Since this eclipse is expected to occur around the time of dismissal for many schools across the country, it may be tempting for students to view it without the proper safety precautions while getting to and from their buses. That's why some school districts are  canceling classes early so kids can enjoy the event safely with their families.

Dr. Avnish Deobhakta, vitreoretinal surgeon at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary at Mount Sinai, said parents should also be careful because it can be difficult for children to listen or keep solar eclipse glasses on. 

"You want to actually, in my opinion, kind of avoid them even looking at the eclipse, if possible," he said. "Never look directly at the sun, always wear the right eclipse sunglasses if you are going to look at the sun and make sure that those are coming from a reliable source."

Brinton recommends everyone starts their eclipse "viewing" early, by looking at professional photos and videos of an eclipse online or visiting a local planetarium. 

That way, you "have an idea of what to expect," he said. 

He also recommends the foundation  Prevent Blindness , which has resources for families about eclipse safety.

What happens if you look at a solar eclipse without eclipse glasses?

While your eyes likely won't hurt in the moment if you look at the eclipse without protection, due to lowered brightness and where damage occurs in the eye, beware: The rays can still cause damage .

The harm may not be apparent immediately. Sometimes trouble starts to appear one to a few days following the event. It could affect just one or both eyes.

And while some will regain normal visual function, sometimes the damage is permanent. 

"Often there will be some recovery of the vision in the first few months after it, but sometimes there is no recovery and sometimes there's a degree to which it is permanent," Brinton said. 

How long do you have to look at the eclipse to damage your eyes?

Any amount of time looking at the eclipse without protection is too long, experts say. 

"If someone briefly looks at the eclipse, if it's extremely brief, in some cases there won't be damage. But damage can happen even within a fraction of a second in some cases," Brinton said. He said he's had patients who have suffered from solar retinopathy, the official name for the condition.

Deobhakta treated a patient who watched the 2017 solar eclipse for 20 seconds without proper eye protection. She now has permanent damage in the shape of a crescent that interferes with her vision. 

"The crescent that is burned into the retina, the patient sees as black in her visual field," he said. "The visual deficit that she has will never go away."

How to know if you've damaged your eyes from looking at the eclipse

Signs and symptoms of eye damage following an eclipse viewing include headaches, blurred vision, dark spots, changes to how you see color, lines and shapes. 

Unfortunately, there isn't a treatment for solar retinopathy.

"Seeing an eye care professional to solidify the diagnosis and for education I think is reasonable," Brinton said, but added, "right now there is nothing that we do for this. Just wait and give it time and the body does tend to heal up a measure of it."

Sara Moniuszko is a health and lifestyle reporter at CBSNews.com. Previously, she wrote for USA Today, where she was selected to help launch the newspaper's wellness vertical. She now covers breaking and trending news for CBS News' HealthWatch.

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Friday night rocket launch: Where to watch in Sebastian, Vero Beach this weekend

Who's up for a Friday night launch? A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will potentially lift off this weekend, carrying another batch of Starlink internet satellites.

Weather permitting, the rocket launch will be visible in the sky above the Treasure Coast Friday night or early Saturday morning. Below is a calendar for upcoming rocket launches and how to watch the SpaceX Starlink 6-49 launch planned for Friday, April 12.

Is there a rocket launch in Florida today? Rocket launch calendar for Florida

Here's what we know about the rocket launch missions, mentioned in  FLORIDA TODAY's rocket launch calendar  for the month, which is updated frequently. (Check that link often for rocket launch times and dates because they are routinely subject to change for a variety of reasons.)

FLORIDA TODAY, a USA TODAY Network-Florida newspaper, provides interactive launch coverage at  floridatoday.com/space  with frequent updates on launches at least 90 minutes in advance, sometimes longer, depending on the mission. For questions or comments, email  Space Reporter Rick Neale  at [email protected] or tweet him  @rickneale1  on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter.

Is SpaceX launching from Florida? Friday, April 12: SpaceX Starlink 6-49

Though SpaceX has yet to announce this mission, a National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency navigational warning indicates this launch window will open Friday night.

Here are some details about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch:

• Mission:  A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch Starlink internet satellites from the Space Coast.
• Launch window:  9 p.m. EDT on Friday, April 12, to 1:31 a.m. EDT on Saturday, April 13.
• Trajectory:  Southeast.
• Local sonic boom:  No.
• Booster landing:  Drone ship out on the Atlantic Ocean.
• Live coverage:  Starts 90 minutes before liftoff at  floridatoday.com/space .

Where can I watch SpaceX rocket launches online?

If you want to watch live rocket launch coverage,  FLORIDA TODAY's Space Team  will provide updates at  floridatoday.com/space , starting about 90 minutes before launch time. You can download the free app for iPhone or Android or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser.

Where can I see a Florida rocket launch in Indian River County, St. Lucie County and Martin County?

The best views to watch a rocket launch from neighboring Brevard County, aka the Space Coast, is here along the beach. Visibility in Indian River County,  St. Lucie County  and Martin County, part of the Treasure Coast, will depend on weather conditions, and people should make sure not to block traffic or rights of way on bridges and to follow posted rules at beaches. Look due north. Here are some recommended spots, from closest to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center to farthest:

• Pretty much anywhere in Brevard, you'll get a view of the rocket launch. That includes  Melbourne Beach , which borders Indian River County, or from Grant-Valkaria along the Indian River Lagoon.

•  Sebastian Inlet Park , 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach (there is a cost to enter)

•  Wabasso Beach Park , 1808 Wabasso Beach Road, Wabasso

•  Ambersands Beach Park , 12566 N. SR A1A, Vero Beach (free parking)

•  South Beach Park , 1700 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach (free parking)

•  Merrill Barber Bridge  in Vero Beach

•  Alma Lee Loy Bridge  in Vero Beach 

•  Fort Pierce Inlet , 905 Shorewinds Drive

•  Blind Creek Beachside  North and South, South Ocean Drive or SR A1A on Hutchinson Island in Fort Pierce

•  Blue Heron Beach , 2101 Blue Heron Blvd., Fort Pierce

•  Frederick Douglass Memorial Park , 3600 S. Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce

•  Dollman Park Beachside , 9200 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  Herman's Bay Beach , 7880 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  John Brooks Park Beachside , 3300 S Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce

•  Middle Cove Beach , 4600 South Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce

•  Normandy Beach  in Jensen Beach

•  Pepper Park Beachside , 3302 N. SR A1A, Fort Pierce,

•  Walton Rocks Beach , which has a dog park, 6700 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  Waveland Beach , 10350 S. Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  House of Refuge and beach , 301 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., Stuart

•  State Road A1A causeway in Stuart

Rick Neale  is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories,  click here .) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or  [email protected] . Twitter/X:  @RickNeale1

When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

I spent a night in one of the empty apartments in Malaysia's $100 billion ghost town, and I can see why very few people want to live there

• Forest City, a luxury estate in Malaysia, has thousands of empty apartments.
• I spent a night in one of these apartments and found they weren't as luxurious as they were branded to be.
• Dozens of vacant units in the estate are listed for rent on Airbnb.

Forest City is a luxury development in southern Malaysia. China's largest developer, Country Garden , spent $100 billion building the estate.

I first visited Forest City in May 2022, and it was a ghost town . I found towering apartment buildings spread across 4 square miles. A white-sand beach overlooked the Johor Strait, where I could see the silhouette of industrial plants in western Singapore. At night, the windows of hundreds of rows of apartments stayed dark. There were barely any cars on the road and only a handful of people at the beach.

Forest City predicts that some 700,000 people will live in the estate in the next six years. For now, it says there are only 9,000 residents .

In 2022, a security guard at a local condominium told me 20 people lived in the complex. This left me curious about what it would be like to spend a night in one of these apartments.

In March, eight years into Forest City's development, I returned to the estate.

I booked a homestay at a condominium unit for 70 Singapore dollars, or about $52, through a property manager. Dozens of similar units are listed on Airbnb for as little as $38 a night. The unit's owner, who's based in China, declined to comment on this story, citing privacy reasons.

Take a look inside one of the thousands of vacant apartments in Forest City.

Country Garden didn't respond to multiple requests for comment from Business Insider.

Forest City's apartment complexes are marketed as high-end.

I arrived in Forest City on a Friday afternoon. A row of businesses — from a furniture store to a hotpot restaurant — lined the road to the condominium where I stayed the night. One business owner, who declined to be named, said they opened their shop in October.

It was significantly busier than when I had first visited two years earlier. There was barely anyone around then, but now, a few dozen people were walking the streets and patronizing the shops.

I had high expectations for the condo, as Forest City had long branded its properties as upscale. In a July press release , Forest City said it offered "luxury high-rise waterfront apartments."

According to the press release, unit prices in Forest City start at 510,000 Malaysian ringgit, or about $108,000. It's expensive for Johor, the Malaysian state where Forest City is.

Muhammad Najib Razali, a professor of real estate at Malaysia Technology University, told me properties in Johor usually sold below 300,000 ringgit — the price considered affordable among the state's middle-income households.

Locals aren't the target market for these upscale condos. Some 98% of units sold in Forest City were purchased by foreign buyers, according to data cited in a 2017 paper by Ong Kian Ming, a Fulbright scholar who was Malaysia's Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry. In June 2017, Country Garden told Bloomberg it had sold 16,000 units.

The lobby didn't make a strong first impression.

The complex looked pristine from the outside, with each 39-story building covered in greenery. But when I entered the lobby, it was far less manicured.

The elevators were plastered with peeling wallpaper with Forest City's logo and a phrase in Chinese and English that read: "Going home is the beginning of a new life."

Most of the apartments on my floor looked empty.

My unit for the night was on the seventh floor. There were about 20 units on the floor. Each of the units had a window that faced the hallway. I peered into them and could see that most of the units were either sparsely furnished or outright unfurnished.

Two of the units were used by the condo's staff — I spotted several men in uniforms leaving and entering the room — with a few pairs of shoes left outside the door.

In 2022, a Forest City representative told me more than 20,000 residential units had been sold. Now, it appeared that many of these units were vacant.

A resident at another apartment complex in Forest City told me they were the only people living on their floor. They added that most other floors in the building also had only one resident.

Najib said one reason so many units were empty was because many people bought them as investment properties.

"Some buyers thought that Forest City, in terms of the rental market, would be much easier to see return," he said.

One local business owner, who declined to be named, told me she also worked as a property agent in Forest City and had 50 units available for rent.

According to units listed on the property site iProperty, a three-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at the condo costs as little as 1,100 ringgit, or $235, a month to rent. In comparison, renting a similar unit at Danga Bay — Country Garden's first venture in Malaysia just 20 miles from Forest City — costs more than 2,300 ringgit a month.

The unit looked as if it hadn't been lived in. It had an aesthetic similar to an Ikea showroom.

The unit wasn't anything special. It had a simple three-person couch, a small wooden coffee table, and no TV.

The apartment measured 635 square feet and had a master bedroom, two smaller rooms, and one common bathroom. There was also a compact kitchen with two stoves near the entrance.

According to the property website EdgeProp, the average house in Johor is nearly double the size of this unit, at about 1,264 square feet.

Koh Sin Yee, an adjunct senior research fellow with Monash University Malaysia, told me locals in Johor often preferred to purchase landed properties rather than high-rise apartments. She said this deterred many locals — even those who could afford it — from buying a house and living in Forest City.

According to data referenced in Ong's 2017 paper, at the time, only 78 out of the 5,344 units sold in Forest City were sold to Malaysians.

The master bedroom was furnished only with a double bed.

Unlike the other two bedrooms, the master bedroom had natural light streaming in from a large window. One of the common rooms faced the hallway, and when the blinds were opened, I could see straight into the hallway. At night, it felt eerie, as I could hear every little noise from the outside, such as the rustling of leaves and insects chirping.

The common rooms were furnished with nothing but a single bed. I could feel the plastic still wrapped around the mattresses when I lay down.

While the rest of the unit looked new, the bathroom was worse for wear.

Dirt and dead moths had piled up in the shower.

Showering was uncomfortable. The drain was clogged up, so I ended up ankle-deep in water.

The best part of the unit was the balcony, which had views of the coastal villas and the Johor Strait.

On its website, Forest City marketed these villas as a "peaceful retreat or a luxurious vacation home." These villas are larger than the apartments, with a living area between 753 square feet and 1,862 square feet. A total of 482 villas are set to be completed by 2026.

The villas looked like modern townhouses. Each villa had a rooftop and garage. Forest City hasn't announced how much these villas will cost.

While the condo was massive, I spotted only a handful of residents using its facilities.

Outside, there was a swimming pool, several outdoor gyms, and a playground.

There was no one at the pool in the morning. The Jacuzzi was full of cloudy-looking water.

I spotted a total of three residents, one of whom was blasting a song in Chinese from her phone and exercising on one of the tai-chi spinners at the outdoor gym.

It looked like an average residential neighborhood in Singapore — with its endless blocks of public housing and the ubiquitous sight of plants and trees — but without the people.

There was one place that didn't feel dead: the row of shops just outside the condo.

I headed for a meal at one of several Chinese restaurants just outside the condo. During my first visit, most of these stores were vacant. But now, it was where I found the most signs of life.

The moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was transported to China . Chinese pop music blared from the speakers as cigarette smoke wafted into the air.

Nearly everyone inside spoke only Chinese. Despite speaking Malay, the national language, I had to resort to pointing at items on the menu to order.

The area had become an enclave of sorts: The other stores nearby were also Chinese restaurants or convenience stores that sold household goods from China. There, people told me they were from the mainland, too, and only spoke Chinese.

"A certain demographic of Chinese people may prefer this kind of lifestyle in Malaysia," Koh said, adding that Forest City offered a lower cost of living than major cities in China and was designed in a way that was familiar to where Chinese residents may have lived back home.

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Anxiety, Bedtime and Mating: How Animals May React to the Eclipse

When the total solar eclipse happens on Monday, animals at homes, farms and zoos may act strangely. Researchers can’t wait to see what happens when day quickly turns to night.

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By Juliet Macur and Emily Anthes

This article is part of The Times’s coverage of the April 8 eclipse , the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in most of North America for 20 years.

While millions of people are preparing to watch the total solar eclipse that will make its way across North America on Monday, the animals in that affected area — in homes, on farms, in zoos and in the wild — missed the news that the moon will block the sun, briefly turning day into night.

How they react to that swift and unexpected change of light and temperature, which in some places will last as long as four and a half minutes, is anyone’s guess.

Cows may mosey into their barns for bedtime. Flamingoes may huddle together in fear. The giant, slow-motion Galápagos tortoise may even get frisky and mate.

Circadian rhythms might take a noticeable hit, with nocturnal animals mistakenly waking up and starting their day only to realize that, whoa, nighttime is already over. And then there will be some animals, perhaps particularly lazy domestic cats or warthogs focused on foraging, who might not give the dark sky a second thought.

“Everybody wants to see how they are going to react,” said Robert Shumaker, the chief executive and president of the Indianapolis Zoo, which will experience nearly four minutes of darkness. It’s one of several prominent zoos situated along the path of totality, a gentle arc stretching from Texas to Maine, where researchers, animal keepers, volunteers and the public will be studying the animals’ response to the eclipse.

Dr. Shumaker, an expert in animal behavior and cognition, said that “most of the animals, of course, they’re going to notice that there’s something unusual happening.”

Most animals will likely be confused by the darkness and will start their nighttime routines, said Dr. M. Leanne Lilly, a veterinary behaviorist at Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

But the way humans react to the eclipse — looking at the sky, expressing excitement or gathering in a group — could affect domesticated animals, like dogs or cats, because pets can act strangely when their humans are acting strangely, Dr. Lilly said.

“That can make any of our domestic animals feel like things are not as safe and predictable as they are supposed to be,” Dr. Lilly said, adding that any unusual human behavior can disturb pets because they are “domesticated to attend to us.”

“We might be the problem,” she said, with a laugh.

How animals will react to solar eclipses can only give hints of animal behavior because the relatively few studies of the topic are often conflicting. One study in 1560 cited that “birds fell to the ground.” Other studies said birds went to roost, or fell silent, or continued to sing and coo — or flew straight into houses. Dogs either barked or whimpered, or did not bark or whimper.

A study of the 1932 eclipse, which was thought to be the first comprehensive research conducted on the subject and included observations from the public, explained that it received “a good deal of conflicting testimony” from people who had observed mammals. It concluded that several animals showed the strongest responses: squirrels ran into the woods and cattle and sheep headed for their barns.

Zoo animals, the study said, showed little or no response, and Dr. Shumaker does not expect the animals at the Indianapolis Zoo to show much of an unusual response, because “they take a lot of things in stride.”

“ We’re thinking that this will be a very casual and easy experience for the animals,” he said, adding that some might experience “a little bit of confusion” about what’s going on. “I certainly don’t anticipate that it will be alarming to them.”

Dr. Shumaker is as curious as anyone to see what the animals will do, and in 2017, Adam Hartstone-Rose, now a professor of biological sciences at North Carolina State University, tried to get some answers. Before that total solar eclipse crossed the United States, he launched a formal study of animals at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden in Columbia., S.C., and it resulted in what was likely the broadest study of animals during an eclipse since the 1932 effort.

Just as he is doing next week at the Fort Worth Zoo, Dr. Hartstone-Rose assembled a group of researchers, animal keepers and volunteers to observe animals before, during and after totality.

About three-fourths of the 17 species his team studied, including mammals, birds and reptiles, displayed a behavior response to the eclipse, with many of those animals thinking that the change in light meant it was time to prepare for bed. A smaller group of animals, including the giraffes, baboons, gorillas, flamingoes, lorikeets (a type of parrot) and one Komodo dragon showed behavior that was out of the ordinary and could be interpreted as anxiety.

According to the study, the baboons ran around their enclosure as totality approached, and one paced and walked in circles for about 25 minutes. One male gorilla charged the glass. The flamingoes huddled together, encircling their young, vocalizing loudly and looking toward the sky, which is “the kind of thing they might do if they think there’s an aerial predator around,” Dr. Hartstone-Rose said.

The lorikeets grew active and loud just before totality, and during totality flew together to one side of their exhibit. One Komodo dragon rushed to his den but the door was closed, and he “ran erratically” around until daylight returned.

He noted that it was “entirely possible” that the behaviors were triggered not by the eclipse, but by the large crowds and the noises at the zoo, which included fireworks exploding in the distance.

Yet the giraffes’ behavior that day in South Carolina was similar to the animals’ behavior elsewhere during eclipses, including at the Nashville Zoo in 2017, and also in the wild in Zambia during a 2001 eclipse.

“Most of us expected that the giraffes would just kind of be like, ‘Oh, it’s dark, so it’s bedtime,’” said Alyson Proveaux, curator of mammals at the Riverbanks Zoo and one of the observers of the giraffes in 2017. But their reaction was much more dramatic.

Normally, the Riverbanks Zoo giraffes chomp on lettuce, chew their cud, mill about or play with their enrichment toys. But when the sky went dark, according to the study, they stopped eating and huddled in the back of their enclosure, with one pacing and swaying. As the daylight slowly returned, several broke into a gallop for several minutes, which was extremely out of character. Giraffes also galloped during the eclipse at the Nashville Zoo and in Zambia.

“They are creatures of habit,” Ms. Proveaux said. “So we just rocked their world.”

In another part of the Riverbanks Zoo, the Galápagos turtles did something even stranger just before totality that the study described as a “novel response.” Instead of moving slowly around their area, as they usually do, they grouped together and two started mating. During totality, all four tortoises moved faster than usual.

Dr. Hartstone-Rose is curious to see if these responses will be repeated by animals at the Fort Worth Zoo, where he will likely be monitoring the bonobos, which are similar to chimpanzees. He said bonobos often exhibit sexual behavior to alleviate anxiety and that it will be fascinating to see their response to the unexpected darkness.

He also is asking the public to formally observe the animals around them during the eclipse and submit those findings to him so he can include them in his study. Those animals include pets, livestock, as well as wild animals, who also are known to alter their behavior during eclipses.

Scientists have used different types of technology to record wild animal responses to an eclipse. For the 2017 solar eclipse, scientists used radar data from weather stations across the country to study how flying animals responded when day turned into night.

As the sky darkened, the amount of biological activity in the atmosphere fell, they found, suggesting that insects were landing and birds were beginning to roost. In some places, there were also brief pulses of activity during totality, when some nocturnal creatures — which may have included bats, some insects and birds that migrate at night — came to life.

Still, the brief bout of darkness did not seem significant enough to completely convince animals that night had descended. “It’s kind of a muted response,” said Andrew Farnsworth, a visiting scientist at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology who was an author of the study.

Some animals, including many butterflies, are especially sensitive to temperature. During the 2017 eclipse , Robert Michael Pyle, an ecologist and butterfly expert in southwestern Washington, spent hours carefully logging the conditions in his yard and as the temperature dropped, the woodland skippers, a common butterfly species, disappeared. “Two degrees put the butterflies back to bed,” he said.

Although they have been the focus of less research, plants, which require the sun for sustenance, are also affected by eclipses . “As the sun goes away, photosynthesis goes down,” said Daniel Beverly, an ecophysiologist at Indiana University who documented that slowdown in big sagebrush during the 2017 eclipse. The findings highlight the importance of circadian rhythms beyond the animal kingdom, he said.

And careful observations of what organisms do during an eclipse can yield new insights that extend beyond the event itself. The eclipse “is a sort of natural experiment, manipulating light and temperature on a grand scale,” said Candace Galen, an evolutionary ecologist at the University of Missouri who found that bees went quiet during the period of totality in 2017.

In the end, Dr. Hartstone-Rose said, “who knows what’s going through the head of a giraffe.” But his aim is to collect as much data as he can, to try to find out.

He does have one definite answer to a question posed to him again and again: During an eclipse, should you put protective glasses on your dog?

“As a fashion statement, I’m all for it, so go for it,” he said. “But as a safety precaution, no, that’s not something they need to do. Animals do not look at the sun.”

Emily Anthes is a science reporter, writing primarily about animal health and science. She also covered the coronavirus pandemic. More about Emily Anthes