Penang Island’s best tours center around two main attractions: food and heritage. The afternoon food walking tours stand out as fantastic introductions to the island’s famous hawker stalls and street cuisine. In George Town, both bicycle and trishaw tours offer excellent ways to explore the UNESCO World Heritage streets, with knowledgeable guides explaining the colonial architecture and local history. For food lovers, hands-on cooking classes and guided market visits provide authentic cultural experiences, while the Tropical Spice Garden tours showcase the island’s natural beauty. Even day trips to Thailand’s Hat Yai are worthwhile for those wanting to expand their journey. Let’s explore our favorite Penang tours that deliver the best bang for your buck.
Key Points
- Penang’s highly rated food tours, like the Afternoon Walking Foods Tour and Chef Samuels Private Malaysian Cooking Class, offer immersive culinary experiences.
- Guided tours provide in-depth exploration of Penang’s cultural heritage and historic landmarks, such as the guided tour of Cheong Fatt Tze’s Blue Mansion.
- Full-day and half-day tours encompass key attractions like Penang Hill, Buddhist temples, and UNESCO-listed George Town, ensuring a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
- Outdoor and adventure tours, like the Countryside Cycling Tour, offer intimate encounters with Penang’s rural landscapes and wildlife.
- Specialty tours, including the Tropical Spice Garden, allow visitors to explore unique aspects of Penang’s natural and cultural offerings.
Penang: Afternoon Walking Foods Tour
The Penang: Afternoon Walking Foods Tour offers travelers an immersive culinary adventure through the vibrant streets of George Town.
With over 147 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this highly-rated tour showcases 10 to 13 traditional Penang street foods, snacks, and drinks. Travelers can expect to sample a diverse array of local specialties while exploring heritage buildings, street art murals, and learning about Taoism at a Chinese temple.
The tour is led by professional guides praised for their extensive knowledge and adaptability in catering to dietary needs. Starting at 3:30 PM, the experience culminates at the lively Kimberley Street Food Night Market.
Priced at $65 per person with a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides excellent value for travelers seeking an educational and personalized food journey.
Accessibility features and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour a convenient and flexible option for exploring Penang’s celebrated culinary landscape.
Read our full review: Penang: Afternoon Walking Foods Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Penang George Town All-In-One Heritage Tour By Bicycle & Trishaw (Metro Bike)
This comprehensive Penang George Town All-In-One Heritage Tour by Bicycle & Trishaw (Metro Bike) offers travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and local cuisine.
With 161 positive reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, the tour is ideal for families, providing breakfast, lunch, and necessary equipment.
Participants can cycle through the streets and heritage sites of George Town, or opt for a trishaw ride, to experience the city’s vibrant culture firsthand.
The tour includes bicycle or trishaw rental, safety gear, and complimentary bottled water. While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, no entrance fees are required.
The meeting point is at Victoria Inn, and the tour ends back at the same location. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, and a minimum of 2 passengers is needed per reservation.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by adults. Guests are advised to wear sportswear and ensure their height meets the bicycle requirements.
Read our full review: Penang George Town All-In-One Heritage Tour By Bicycle & Trishaw (Metro Bike) Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Tour of Cheong Fatt Tzes Blue Mansion in George Town
The tour takes place at the mansion’s meeting point, and visitors are advised to arrive 10 minutes early.
While the mansion isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and near public transportation.
Admission includes the guided tour, and souvenir photos are available for purchase.
While food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included, the tour has received positive reviews, with visitors highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the mansion’s fascinating history.
Criticism has been directed at occasional overcrowding and limited access to certain areas due to hotel operations.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of Cheong Fatt Tzes Blue Mansion in George Town Review
Book now: Check availability
Countryside Cycling Tour by Matahari
Setting out on a countryside cycling tour with Matahari promises an immersive exploration of Penang’s rural landscapes. Rated 5.0 with a 100% recommendation rate from over 100 traveler reviews, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the island’s natural beauty and local culture.
Equipped with high-quality bicycles and helmets, you will be guided through picturesque countryside, stopping to interact with friendly locals, sample exotic fruits, and observe wildlife like monkeys. The all-inclusive package covers transportation, a support vehicle, refreshments, and a delectable lunch featuring a selection of beloved local dishes.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience. Despite its accessibility, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility limitations or certain medical conditions.
Priced at $93.43 per person, this cycling adventure offers an unbeatable value and the chance to discover Penang’s charming rural landscapes in an immersive and unforgettable way.
Read our full review: Countryside Cycling Tour by Matahari Review
Book now: Check availability
Chef Samuels Private Malaysian Cooking Class With Wet Market Tour
Offering a captivating culinary journey, Chef Samuels’ Private Malaysian Cooking Class with Wet Market Tour provides participants an immersive exploration of Penang’s vibrant food culture.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 47 travelers, this class presents an extensive menu featuring Nyonya, Chinese, Malay, Indian, and street food specialties. The experience includes a market tour where guests learn about local ingredients and snacks.
The class features classic dishes like the authentic Malay dry chicken curry Chicken Rendang, the Chinese barbecue glazed pork loin Char Siew Noodle, and the Indian flatbread Roti Canai.
Participants will enjoy customized recipes, lunch, breakfast, and drinks, as well as private transportation. The class can be joined at the wet market in Georgetown or with a free pickup option.
Reviews praise Chef Samuel’s passion, knowledge, and ability to accommodate diverse language needs, highlighting the enjoyable market experience, informative cooking class, and delicious food prepared.
Priced from $116.46 per person, this class offers a lowest price guarantee and convenient accessibility.
Read our full review: Chef Samuels Private Malaysian Cooking Class With Wet Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Explore Georgetown Penang Half Day City Tour
Explore Georgetown Penang Half Day City Tour takes visitors on a captivating 5-hour journey through the historic heart of Penang.
Combining visits to iconic sites like Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple, Fort Cornwallis, and the colorful neighborhoods of Little India and Chew Jetty, the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s diverse cultural heritage.
Travelers can also opt to visit the Penang Time Tunnel 3D museum for a deeper dive into the region’s history.
Comfortably transported in a climate-controlled vehicle, guests are picked up from their hotels within a 1km radius of the city center.
The tour’s knowledgeable guides provide insights and local tips, with flexibility to tailor experiences based on guests’ interests.
While some reviews note a lack of depth compared to the price, others praise the guides’ expertise and ability to curate personalized tours.
Ideal for first-time visitors, the Explore Georgetown Penang Half Day City Tour is a convenient way to get an overview of this vibrant Malaysian destination.
Read our full review: Explore Georgetown Penang Half Day City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Penang: Morning Walking Foods Tour
After exploring the historic landmarks of Georgetown on the half-day city tour, visitors can enjoy the vibrant food scene of Penang on the Morning Walking Foods Tour.
This highly-rated 4.9/5 tour allows participants to sample over a dozen traditional Malaysian dishes, from roti canai to curry mee, and enjoy local drinks like white coffee and teh tarik.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size ensures a personalized experience as the knowledgeable guides share insights into the local culture and heritage.
The tour covers a variety of experiences, from visiting a Chinese temple to exploring a morning wet market.
Travelers consistently praise the guides’ flexibility, friendliness, and extensive knowledge, as well as the tour’s combination of food tasting and cultural storytelling.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and convenient meeting and end points, the Morning Walking Foods Tour is a must-do activity for any foodie visiting Penang.
Read our full review: Penang: Morning Walking Foods Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Eat Like A Local: Penang Street Food Tour
What better way to experience Penang’s vibrant food scene than by joining the Eat Like a Local: Penang Street Food Tour? This highly-rated, private street food tour offers an immersive culinary adventure, with a 96% traveler recommendation.
The tour’s Badge of Excellence is well-deserved, as guests can sample a variety of local treats, from brown-sugar biscuits to spiced pork rolls and fresh guava. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the tour provides insight into the fusion of Chinese and Indian influences that make Malaysian cuisine so unique.
Comfortable transportation and non-alcoholic beverages are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With a minimum of 2 people required per booking, this tour is perfect for solo travelers or small groups looking to dive into Penang’s rich culinary heritage.
The only drawback is that it isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can join, sitting on laps. This tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic local experience in Penang.
Read our full review: Eat Like A Local: Penang Street Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day – Penang Tour Including Penang Hill Tickets (Fast Lane) & Lunch
For those seeking a more comprehensive Penang experience beyond just the vibrant food scene, the Full Day – Penang Tour Including Penang Hill Tickets (Fast Lane) & Lunch offers an opportunity to discover the island’s diverse cultural and natural attractions.
Boasting a high recommendation rate, this full-day tour takes travelers to key landmarks like Buddhist temples and the UNESCO-listed streets of George Town. The highlight is undoubtedly the visit to Penang Hill, where guests can enjoy the scenic views via the Penang Hill Train’s fast lane.
Lunch featuring authentic Penang cuisine is included, while transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey.
Though some travelers felt the tour was overpriced, the majority praised the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics. With a maximum group size of 15, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience for those eager to enjoy Penang’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Read our full review: Full Day – Penang Tour Including Penang Hill Tickets (Fast Lane) & Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Half Day Penang City Tour (5 Hours)
This half-day Penang City Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s vibrant cultural heritage and historic landmarks. Lasting 5 hours, the tour takes you to key sights like the Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple with its impressive reclining Buddha, and the Dhammika Rama Burmese Temple.
You’ll also enjoy a scenic drive through the UNESCO-listed George Town, and visit the Esplanade, Fort Cornwallis, Little India, and the charming Streets of Racial Harmony. Highlights include a stop at the Chew Jetty and a complimentary tasting of Penang’s renowned white coffee or tea.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking driver, and hotel pickup and drop-off within the city center.
While the itinerary is subject to change, reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences. Some note a focus on shopping rather than sightseeing, but overall, this half-day tour provides an excellent introduction to Penang’s diverse cultural attractions.
Read our full review: Half Day Penang City Tour (5 Hours) Review
Book now: Check availability
4-Hour Georgetown Food Tour
Although primarily focused on the vibrant food scene of George Town, the 4-Hour Georgetown Food Tour also offers participants a chance to enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s rich cultural heritage.
Priced at $88 per person, this highly-rated tour (4.8/5 stars from 253 reviews) takes small groups of up to 9 travelers on a culinary journey through the historic streets of Penang’s capital.
Highlights include sampling a mix of local delicacies, enjoying dinner and beverages, and indulging in a cocktail or mocktail.
With hotel pickup and drop-off included, the tour ensures a hassle-free experience.
While some travelers felt the tour leaned too heavily on history over food, the overall consensus praises the knowledgeable guides and their ability to provide engaging cultural insights.
For food lovers seeking to discover Penang’s unique flavors in a time-efficient manner, the 4-Hour Georgetown Food Tour presents an excellent option.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Georgetown Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Food Tour at Penang – Eat Like a Local, Feel Like a Local
Penang’s vibrant street food scene offers visitors a captivating culinary experience that blends Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European flavors. This private food tour provides an immersive adventure, transporting guests from their George Town hotel to sample local delights.
The tour includes Indian-style “nasi kandar,” a picnic at Air Itam Dam, and a visit to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple.
With a maximum of 5 travelers, this personalized experience ensures an intimate and educational journey. The tour includes lunch, dinner, snacks, and beverages, along with an air-conditioned vehicle and gratuities.
The sample menu features a diverse array of dishes, from nasi kandar and curry rice to fritters, sweet cakes, noodles, and burgers.
Travelers rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guide, Tiger, who provides insightful commentary on Penang’s rich culture and history.
With 100% of reviewers recommending this tour, it’s an ideal choice for first-time visitors and foodies seeking an authentic taste of Penang.
Read our full review: Food Tour at Penang – Eat Like a Local, Feel Like a Local Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Tour & Transporters
Visitors to Penang can embark on an engaging guided tour that offers seamless transportation around the island. The tour departs from the Penang International Airport, providing a convenient pickup location for travelers.
After the tour, participants are returned to the same meeting point, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The guided tour is highly recommended, with 94% of travelers vouching for its quality. Boasting an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 16 reviews, the tour provides an opportunity to explore Penang’s highlights with the comfort of private transportation.
The service is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats are available for young travelers.
Guests can redeem their tickets in Georgetown, the historic heart of Penang. The tour operates daily with a start time of 10:00 am, and travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
For any inquiries, the organizers offer 24-hour fast service via phone or WhatsApp.
Read our full review: Guided Tour & Transporters Review
Book now: Check availability
Penang Shore Excursion Day Trip With Temple and Penang Hill Tickets (Fast Lane)
The Penang Shore Excursion Day Trip offers visitors a chance to explore the highlights of Penang Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour includes a visit to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Pagoda, two of the island’s top attractions. Guests will also enjoy a tasting of Penang’s famous White Coffee at Coffee Tree.
The tour is priced from $96 per person and includes pickup and drop-off within a 1km radius of George Town’s city center, along with tickets for the Penang Hill Train (Fast Lane) and Kek Lok Si Temple. A knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide ensures a personalized experience.
With an overall rating of 4.4 stars based on 9 reviews, the tour has received positive feedback for its efficient ticketing and enjoyable visits to temples and gardens. Some guests have suggested including more varied attractions.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. It’s suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 15.
Read our full review: Penang Shore Excursion Day Trip With Temple and Penang Hill Tickets (Fast Lane) Review
Book now: Check availability
Penang City Private Half Day Tour With Khoo Kongsi & Kek Lok Si
Penang City Private Half Day Tour with Khoo Kongsi & Kek Lok Si offers visitors a chance to explore the cultural and historical highlights of the island.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within a 1km radius of George Town city center, an English-speaking driver, and an air-conditioned vehicle. Priced from $64 per person, the tour has a maximum capacity of 15 travelers.
Guests will visit the Khoo Kongsi, a renowned clan house, and the Kek Lok Si, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. The tour lasts approximately half a day, starting at 9:30 AM.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour provides a rundown of Penang’s cultural heritage. Feedback from previous guests highlights the knowledgeable guides and the flexibility of the tour.
However, some customers noted discrepancies in the advertised private nature of the experience. The tour receives positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 across Viator and Tripadvisor.
Read our full review: Penang City Private Half Day Tour With Khoo Kongsi & Kek Lok Si Review
Book now: Check availability
Penang City & Temple Tour With Penang Hill(Fast Lane) & Kek Lok Si
Although the Penang City & Temple Tour with Penang Hill (Fast Lane) and Kek Lok Si can be booked for a maximum of 14 travelers, it provides an intimate and personalized experience for visitors.
Priced from £68.62 per person, this 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within 1km of the city center, an English-speaking driver, and tickets for Penang Hill Train (Fast Lane), Kek Lok Si Temple, and the Inclined Lift.
Travelers enjoy the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle and informative commentary from the guide. With a 100% recommendation rate from previous guests, this tour is a great way to explore Penang’s top attractions, including the iconic Kek Lok Si Temple and the stunning views from Penang Hill.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience, and additional tours can be arranged at extra cost.
Read our full review: Penang City & Temple Tour With Penang Hill(Fast Lane) & Kek Lok Si Review
Book now: Check availability
Penang Plates Food Tour With 15+ Tastings
With its promise of over 15 mouthwatering tastings, the Penang Plates Food Tour offers an unparalleled culinary experience for visitors to the island.
Over the course of 4 hours, guests will explore the historic streets of George Town while savoring an array of local Indian, Chinese, and Nyonya cuisines.
Led by professional foodie guides, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 exclusive participants, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.
Beyond the diverse menu, the tour also provides insights into Penang’s rich cultural heritage.
Starting at the Pinang Peranakan Mansion and ending at the vibrant Kimberley Street Food Night Market, the experience is bookended by centrally located meeting points with taxi assistance available.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
With an impressive 99% recommendation rate and 5.0 overall rating, the Penang Plates Food Tour is a must-do for any culinary adventurer visiting the island.
Read our full review: Penang Plates Food Tour With 15+ Tastings Review
Book now: Check availability
Good Morning Penang Food Tour With 15+ Tastings
As the sun rises over the historic streets of George Town, the Good Morning Penang Food Tour offers a one-of-a-kind culinary experience that immerses guests in the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of Penang.
Over the course of 4 hours, visitors will indulge in over 15 local food tastings, from traditional Malaysian dishes to iconic Penang street food.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour explores the city’s Old Town, providing valuable insights into the region’s history and culinary traditions.
With a maximum of 8 guests, the experience offers a personalized and safe eating adventure.
Praised for their expertise and engagement, the tour guides ensure each participant leaves with a deeper appreciation for Penang’s diverse gastronomic landscape.
Despite the tour’s abundance of tastings, the pace is well-managed, allowing guests to savor the flavors comfortably.
Priced at $45 per person, the Good Morning Penang Food Tour is a must-do for any visitor seeking an authentic and unforgettable exploration of the island’s remarkable cuisine.
Read our full review: Good Morning Penang Food Tour With 15+ Tastings Review
Book now: Check availability
Tropical Spice Garden Entrance Tickets & Guided Tours
The Tropical Spice Garden in Penang Island offers visitors a captivating exploration of the region’s diverse flora and rich cultural heritage.
Located in Teluk Bahang, the garden boasts a 4.8/5 rating based on 5 reviews, making it a must-visit attraction.
Visitors can choose from standard admission tickets starting from $8.36 per person, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience.
Guided tours are available, and hotel pick-up is included, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
While the garden isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Operated by GlobalTix Pte Ltd, the attraction is bookable through popular platforms like Viator and TripAdvisor, with a lowest price guarantee.
Visitors can also take advantage of the reservation flexibility, allowing them to secure their spot while maintaining flexibility in their plans.
Read our full review: Tropical Spice Garden Entrance Tickets & Guided Tours Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour to Hatyai Thailand Famous Landmarks With Tour Guide
Set out on a private day trip from Penang to explore the renowned landmarks of Hat Yai, Thailand. This customizable tour is ideal for first-time visitors seeking an immersive experience in Thai culture.
The hassle-free itinerary includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking guide to ensure a seamless journey. Relax and enjoy the scenic drive as you admire the picturesque landscape.
Upon arrival in Hat Yai, your guide will provide insights into the city’s famous landmarks and offer a personalized experience tailored to your interests. The tour includes round-trip transportation, with the option to visit attractions at your own pace.
Travelers can expect a family-friendly experience, though concerns have been raised about the language proficiency of the second guide. The tour boasts a 4.5-star rating from previous guests, who’ve praised the helpful guides and the opportunity to enjoy Thai culture.
The tour starts at £293.41 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Hatyai Thailand Famous Landmarks With Tour Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Penang offers a diverse array of tours catering to various interests. From food tours showcasing the island’s rich culinary heritage to bike and trishaw tours exploring its historic landmarks, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in cooking classes, spice gardens, or even day trips to Thailand, Penang has an abundance of tour options to make the most of your visit.