What To Do in George Town

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

Tucked in the island of Penang, George Town is an amazing city in Malaysiainfo-icon that has a historical ambiance. If your next trip is to see this jewel, you must be having endless thoughts on what to do in George Town. 

That is because there are countless things for a traveler to do and see in this beautiful place.  You will come across magnificent religious buildings, interesting street art, grand mansions and many other things here. 

Well, I am going to make your tour easy for you by picking out the best destinations in the capital of Penang. Here’s a list of places that will let you experience the best of George Town in a short span of time!

Street Art

'Little Children on a Bicycle' is a prime example of street art in George Town.
'Little Children on a Bicycle' is a prime example of street art in George Town.

One thing you will not forget about George Town is its fascinating display of street art. So, stroll among the streets to find out how some famous artists have decorated the walls with immense talent. 

If you are an enthusiastic art lover, you will find that each art has tried to reveal the lifestyle, culture or the vibrant nature of this historical city. Some 3D paintings that will capture your heart instantly are, ‘Little Children on a Bicycle’, ' Almost There’ and ‘The Boy and His Motorbike’. 

So, make this your first activity of what to do in George Town to create everlasting memories.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion or the Blue Mansion is an unique blend of Western and Eastern architecture.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion or the Blue Mansion is an unique blend of Western and Eastern architecture.

George Town is the ideal place to spot some of the grandest mansions in Malaysia. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion or otherwise known as the Blue Mansion is simply a spectacular place built in the 1880s. 

It is known to be the most photographed place in George Town because the architecture is unique with both Eastern and Western features. The owner of the mansion Cheong Fatt Tze had constructed this as a special gift for his seventh wife. 

The mansion is currently serving both as a museum and a guesthouse. So, if you want to experience the ‘old world charm with modern comforts’, spend a day here!

Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

Dhammikarama Burmese Temple represents the Burmese cultural influence in George Town.
Dhammikarama Burmese Temple represents the Burmese cultural influence in George Town.

The capital of Penang is a multi-cultured place that resembles Indian, Chinese and Moor inhibitions. Whether you are a Buddhist devotee or an ordinary traveler who is eager to discover unique places, this temple is ideal for you. 

While it is a great place to spend your time in a peaceful ambiance, you will also get to know the cultural lifestyle of Burmese devotees here. The impressive artworks and the statues are also significantly different from that of other temples. 

Read more: What to do in Kuala Lumpur

So, Dhammikarama Burmese Temple will aptly answer your question what to do in George Town.

Clan Jetties

Clan Jetties is the water village on the Penang island.
Clan Jetties is the water village on the Penang island.

If you want to have a look at the lifestyle of traditional Chinese clans in George Town, head to Clan Jetties. The structure of the village is absorbing because the entire place is built using stilts in the water. Walk along the wooden pier to find charming cottage-style houses built on stilts. 

Read more: 8 Reasons to Consider Visiting George Town

There are actually six clans residing in the place who are the descendants of Chinese immigrants. I recommend you to visit the area during sunset because the scenery is simply picturesque. However, keep in mind not to disturb the residents while you enjoy your time here.

This is a great place to add on the what to do in George Town list if you want to add authenticity to the mix.

Penang State Museum and Art Gallery

Penang State Museum is the ideal place to learn about history of George Town.
Penang State Museum is the ideal place to learn about history of George Town.

If you want the gist of Penang Island's history in one place, this is what to do in George Town as your next activity. As one of the best museums in Malaysia, you will come across precious antiques in this place. 

The rare pieces of jewelry, porcelain, furniture, and costumes will inevitably evoke your curiosity. There are also a few galleries dedicated to educating visitors about Penang’s long history. 

But that’s not all because the temporary exhibits section here showcases fascinating works of local artists.

Penang Fort Cornwallis

The cannons at Fort Cornwallis.
The cannons at Fort Cornwallis.

Do you want to explore colonial remains as your next activity of what to do in George Town? As one of the noted landmarks in George Town, this fort is a visible trace of colonial rule in the past. 

It was built by Captain Francis Light to protect the British’s Spice Company Base from foreign threats. As you walk along the place, you will find the statue of the Captain, the Sri Rambai Cannon, the gunpowder magazine, and a small jail cell. 

Read more: What to do in Melaka

You will also be able to know the historical events related to the fort through the history boards placed here. The surrounding of the fort is merely stunning which is why it is a popular venue for cultural and festival celebrations.


George Town is a historical city that strives to preserve its many cultures while paving the way for modern art. Every year, countless tourists head to this place to see the treasures of this capital. The people here are very welcoming and will not hesitate to treat you at their best. If you are considering what to do in George Town to make the tour unforgettable, head to these fantastic places. You will not only be fascinated by their beauty but also will learn a lot about George Town through these important sites. So, are you ready to head to this beautiful city in Malaysia?

Raeesha Ikram freelance content writer for aSabbatical
Travelling isn’t a mere journey to different places. Instead, it’s an eye-opener revealing how beautifully diverse the world is.