Things to Do in George Town, Penang

Things to Do in George Town Penang

Earlier this year, I made a quick stop in Penang, Malaysia after my trip to Cambodia. I’d heard a lot about the street art and street food in George Town — only two of my most favorite things. I wasn’t disappointed. Here are my top tips on things to do in George Town, Penang.

Stay at Le Dream

I stayed at the inexpensive and traveler-friendly Le Dream which has a nice central location in George Town, about a 7 minute walk to Armenian Street, the touristy bit. The breakfast was pretty incredible — char kway teow is my jam — and there was a free wine reception every evening on the rooftop. Rooms were modern and comfortable and the wifi was free and speedy. If you’re not looking for luxury, you’ll like it here.  Book Le Dream Hotel.

Check Out the Street Art

There are a number of really fun pieces all around town. This was really the main thing I did while I was in George Town — I just wandered around and checked out the street art. (After 10 days in Cambodia, I was a little bit done with traveling and history!) Checking out the street art is one of the top things to do in George Town, Penang.

Take a Penang Food Tour

I took an excellent street food tour of Penang that took us all over town, from a char kway teow cart in George Town to the Sungai Penang Food Court on the outskirts. Stick a fork in me, I’m done. I booked directly with Food Tour Penang but Urban Adventures and Viator have a number of Penang food tours as well. You will not go hungry in Penang, that’s for sure.

Have Some Italian Food (!)

At this point, I had been in Asia for two weeks. So I needed some pasta. I dropped into Il Bacaro in the Campbell House Hotel and had the — surprise — spaghetti vongole in a relaxed atmosphere. It was exactly what I needed.

Changing Times

Penang is changing and changing fast. I’m pretty sure Airbnb is going to change George Town forever as people start converting the older buildings like the one in my first photo into boutique properties. Go now.

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