Penang
Penang, Malaysia
5.0
Overview
Penang is Malaysia's food capital and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Georgetown's colonial shophouses, vibrant street art, and legendary hawker stalls make it one of the best-value destinations in all of Asia. Backpackers come for the food — char kway teow, assam laksa, cendol, nasi kandar — and stay for the atmosphere: a walkable, art-filled city where every lane has a story and every corner has a cheap meal.
Daily Budget
~$25
Best Months
DecJanFebMar
Hostels
5 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
8 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Top Hostels
View all 5 hostels
Things to Do
View all 8 activitiesBanana leaf rice lunch in Little India
tours
Browse the hawker stalls at Gurney Drive or New Lane night market
food
Eat your way through Georgetown: char kway teow at Lorong Selamat, assam laksa at Air Itam, cendol at Penang Road
food
Explore Kek Lok Si Temple
culture
Ride the funicular to Penang Hill for panoramic views
tours
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Penang?
- Budget around $25 USD per day in Penang, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Penang?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Penang are Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Penang?
- Top-rated hostels in Penang include Roomies Boutique Hostel, Queen's Hostel, House of Journey. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from $20 USD per night.
- What are the top things to do in Penang?
- Must-do activities in Penang include Banana leaf rice lunch in Little India, Browse the hawker stalls at Gurney Drive or New Lane night market, Eat your way through Georgetown: char kway teow at Lorong Selamat, assam laksa at Air Itam, cendol at Penang Road. There are 8 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.