Penang, A Living Canvas of Cultures and Time
The Vibe of the Past
Time lingers gently in Penang, where crumbling colonial facades sit side by side with Chinese shophouses, Indian temples, and Malay kampungs. It’s a city that doesn’t just preserve its past, it wears it like a well-loved batik, rich with stories and intricate detail. The scent of spices wafts from heritage cafés, old trishaws rattle past mosaic-tiled verandas, and the call to prayer mingles with the echo of temple bells. Every street corner feels like a page from a living, multicultural history book.
Travel
Armenian Street Murals
Stroll down Armenian Street to witness Penang’s artistic heartbeat. Iconic murals like “Children on a Bicycle” by Ernest Zacharevic have transformed blank walls into storytelling masterpieces.
Address: Armenian Street (Lebuh Armenian), George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Clan Jetties
Experience Penang’s waterfront heritage at the Clan Jetties, wooden stilt houses that stretch into the sea. Each jetty is home to different Chinese clans, offering a glimpse into a traditional way of life that’s still alive today.
Address: Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay), George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Khoo Kongsi Clan House
Explore the grandeur of Khoo Kongsi, a beautifully preserved Chinese clan house with ornate wood carvings, elaborate murals, and a hidden courtyard temple. It’s a testament to the prosperity and unity of Chinese settlers in Penang.
Address: 18 Cannon Square, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 9.00 – 17.00
Admission Fee: 10 MRY/Person
Eat
Nancy’s Kitchen
Delight in the rich, spicy flavors of Peranakan cuisine at Nancy’s Kitchen. Dishes like ayam pongteh (braised chicken) and kuih pie tee (crispy pastry cups) offer an authentic taste of Nyonya heritage in a cozy setting.
Address: 13, Bishop Street, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 11.00 – 15.00 / 18.00 – 21.00
Pinwheel Resto Cafe
A Retro-style café brings a playful charm to the heart of George Town, serving up a vibrant menu of Western and local fusion dishes designed to delight the palate. With its nostalgic décor and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy creative, flavor-packed meals that blend the best of East and West.
Address: 461, Lbh Chulia, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 8.00 – 23.00
China House
An eclectic mix of café, art gallery, and live music venue, China House is best known for its extensive cake counter and atmospheric charm, ideal for an afternoon break or evening drink in a colonial setting.
Address: 153 & 155 Beach Street, 183B Victoria Street, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Sun – Thu 9.00 – 24.00 / Fri – Sat 9.00 – 1.00
Stay
The Edison George Town
Set in a beautifully restored 1906 colonial mansion, The Edison George Town blends heritage charm with contemporary style, offering a refined yet relaxed stay in the heart of Penang’s UNESCO-listed capital. The hotel’s whitewashed facade, elegant columns, and open-air courtyard evoke old-world grandeur, while its 35 stylish rooms feature modern comforts and thoughtful design. Guests can unwind by the private pool, enjoy all-day refreshments in the lounge, or explore George Town’s vibrant streets just steps away. Whether on foot or by colorful trishaw, the city’s temples, street art, and historic shophouses are all within easy reach, making The Edison a perfect base for discovering Penang’s rich cultural tapestry.
Address: 15, Lebuh Leith, George Town, George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Website: www.theedisonhotels.com
Seven Terraces
This luxurious heritage hotel combines Anglo-Chinese architecture with opulent furnishings and personal service. Located just steps from Armenian Street, it’s perfect for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in Penang’s charm.
Address: 14A, Stewart Ln, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: www.georgetownheritage.com/seven-terraces-hotel/
Campbell House Penang
A boutique hotel housed in a pre-war shophouse, Campbell House offers richly decorated rooms, personalized touches, and award-winning Italian cuisine, making it a stylish and cozy home base in the city.
Address: 106, Lebuh Campbell, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Website: www.campbellhousepenang.com
