Explore Remarkable Penang: Self-Guided Audio Tour

Penang Island , Malaysia

Explore Remarkable Penang: Self-Guided Audio Tour

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(4 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Welcome to Penang, the Pearl of the Orient. This tour highlights the diversity and culture of this island which was a melting pot for merchants and traders from areas such as India, the Middle East, China and Europe.

Perfectly suited for discovery on foot, our self-guided audio tour allows you to set the pace and explore at your leisure as you uncover the stories of this engrossing city.

To discover this fascinating city in your own time and at your own pace just download this self-guided audio tour, pop in your headphones, open the map that comes with your download and start walking.

On this tour you will see how the once British colonised city evolved to its present day mecca of cultures and ethnicities.

The tour will take approximately two hours, but you can pause the audio guide when needed. Grab a bite to eat or do some shopping along the way.

Please note that this tour is only available in English.

Available options

Explore Remarkable Penang: Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Audio files and GPS map

Self-Paced

Detailed itinerary

Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower, leans slightly to one side like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and. has a Moorish style top

Stop 2

Pinang Peranakan Mansion an example of a typical rich Baba home and a must-see. It is adorned with intricate carvings and ornate fixtures and has been restored to its former glory.

St. George's Church is the oldest Anglican Church in South East Asia. Built by Indian convicts in the veins of Western neo-classical style and Georgian Palladian design, the white building was inspired by the architectural style that was the rage in Britain and other parts of Europe at the time.

Stop 4

Sun Yat Sen Museum is a historic gem in the heart of George Town, a beautifully preserved house museum which has a permanent exhibition on Sun Yat Sen's early revolutionary period in Penang when he planned the China Revolution in 1911.

Stop 5

The Kapitan Keling Mosque is Penang's oldest and is a spiritual and community congregational point for the city's Muslim community.

The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple standing in Penang. Built in the South Indian Dravidian style, the temple’s most outstanding feature is the impressive gopuram, or tower over at the main entrance of the temple where you will see amazing sculptures of the gods and goddesses of Hinduism.

What's not included

Admission Fees

Transportation

Food/drinks

Audio Device

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.3

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Tour downloading instructions are in the "Before You Go" section of your ticket.

No admission fees or physical guide included.

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Please download the audio file and make it ready before you start your journey

Available only in English.

Meeting point

Since this tour is self-guided audio tour, you decide your own starting point and ending point according to your own schedule.

Important notes

Please note this is an audio tour, there is no physical guide. There is no set meeting point or time. Once downloaded, you can listen to it whenever you want.

For the best experience, please use our Phone App

Please copy the below link in your mobile browser to download the tour in our app:
https://116e.short.gy/w95lkr

Note. If you do not have the phone application installed already you will need to download it from the App Store first then select the link above to download the audio tour in the app.

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.audiotours.citywalksz

Apple Store:https://apps.apple.com/au/app/citywalks-world/id847106919

Alternatively, download the audio file using below link and play on any device

https://116e.short.gy/uefkqk

About Penang Island

Penang Island, known as the 'Pearl of the Orient,' is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its UNESCO-listed George Town, stunning beaches, and diverse cuisine, it offers a unique Southeast Asian experience.

Top Attractions

George Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial architecture, street art, and rich cultural heritage.

Historical/Cultural Full day Free to explore, individual attractions may have entry fees

Penang Hill

A popular hill station offering panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures.

Nature/Adventure Half day MYR 12 (Funicular ride)

Kek Lok Si Temple

One of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in Malaysia, known for its stunning architecture and the 30.2-meter tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin.

Religious/Cultural 2-3 hours Free, donations welcome

Batu Ferringhi Beach

A popular beach known for its white sand, water sports, and vibrant night market.

Beach Half day or full day Free, water sports and activities may have fees

Penang National Park

A protected area with diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and Monkey Beach.

Nature/Adventure Half day or full day MYR 5 (entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried rice cake strips with prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs, seasoned with soy sauce and chili.

Dinner Contains seafood, eggs, and soy. Can be made vegetarian.

Nasi Kandar

A meal of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes, often including meat, fish, and vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish. Vegetarian options available.

Roti Canai

A flaky, layered flatbread served with curry, often made from wheat flour, water, and ghee.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat and ghee. Vegetarian options available.

Penang Laksa

A spicy noodle soup made with rice noodles, prawns, fish cakes, and a tangy tamarind-based broth.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains seafood and fish. Vegetarian options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking at Penang Hill Water sports at Batu Ferringhi Beach Exploring Penang National Park Beach relaxation at Batu Ferringhi Spa treatments Tea plantation tours in Cameron Highlands Exploring George Town's street art Visiting temples and museums

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the dry season with cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24-32°C 75-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Malay
Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Hokkien, Mandarin, Cantonese), Tamil
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Penang is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Penang International Airport • 15 km from George Town

By bus

Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with a network of buses covering most parts of the island. Easy to use with a single ticket system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

George Town Batu Ferringhi Chulia Street Gurney Drive

Day trips

Butterworth

4 km from George Town • Half day

A town on the mainland opposite Penang Island, known for its historic buildings, ferry services, and the famous Kek Lok Si Temple.

Langkawi

60 km from Penang • Full day or overnight

A tropical island known for its beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and lush landscapes.

Cameron Highlands

200 km from Penang • Full day or overnight

A highland region known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and lush landscapes.

Festivals

George Town Festival • Late July to early August Chinese New Year • January or February (varies by lunar calendar) Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies by lunar calendar (usually May or June)

Pro tips

Explore George Town's street art on foot for a unique and immersive experience
Try local street food at hawker centers for an authentic and affordable culinary adventure
Visit Penang Hill for panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures
Experience the vibrant night market at Batu Ferringhi for shopping, street food, and entertainment
Take a ferry to Butterworth for a day trip to explore the mainland and its attractions