George Town’s well-preserved colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, temples, mosques, and churches reflect its diverse history. Many attractions are located close to one another, making it easy to see and experience by walking.
Visiting all the major sightseeing spots in a single day may not be possible, depending on walking pace and how much time is spent at each location. Most popular sights require an admission fee, though some like Chew Jetty and Tan Jetty are free. Entry rates may vary for locals, foreigners, and children. It’s best to check entrance fees and opening hours in advance or at the gate, especially if planning around specific places.
Armenian Street was named after a small Armenian community that lived in this part of Penang in the early 1800s. Although they eventually left, the name remained, and today, the street has become one of the must-visit spots in George Town. Walking from one end to the other takes about 5-0 minutes, but you’ll likely spend much more time stopping to see the old Chinese shophouses, clan houses, colourful street art, souvenir shops, and even the Sun Yat Sen Museum, where the famous Chinese revolutionary leader once stayed.
Armenian Street also connects to other heritage streets like Cannon Street, Acheh Street, and Kapitan Keling Road, making it easy to explore more of Penang’s old-town vibes. Along the way, you’ll see both the historic and modern sides of the city.
Don’t be surprised if you keep stopping for photos. When you need a break, there are plenty of food and drink spots where you can rest before continuing with walking in Armenian Street.
Stunning, legendary, colourful, and one of the historic and heritage landmarks of Penang. The moment you step into Khoo Kongsi, the first thing you’ll do is pause to admire the architecture. It may look like just another old building, yet it connects with you instantly. Inside are detailed wood carvings, stone sculptures, and gold decorations reflecting the wealth and skill of the craftsmen who built it (KRABI & PHUKET SIGHTSEEING).
Khoo Kongsi is one of the most famous clan houses in Penang, built by the Khoo clan, a Chinese family group from Fujian, China. There’s a small museum inside where visitors can learn about Chinese migration, the Khoo family history, and how the clan system worked. Once a community centre for Khoo family members, a place for gatherings, celebrations, and worship - Khoo Kongsi, like a mini palace, feels calm and comforting.
Chew Jetty
Just 5 to 7
minutes from Fort Cornwallis is Chew Jetty. Walk from the road onto a narrow
wooden platform, passing simple houses on stilts that have stood for
generations. You’ll also notice small Chinese god altars along the way. This
jetty was originally settled by the Chew clan, Chinese immigrants who worked as
fishermen and boatmen.
Even today, Chew Jetty has kept its old-style look, offering a glimpse into Penang’s sea life, both past and present. The sea breeze and gentle sound of waves make the visit meaningful. Stand at the edge of the platform to appreciate the view, before heading back when you're ready. (PULAU KETAM/CRAB ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE).
Tan Jetty
Not to be
missed is walking over to Tan Jetty, just 2 to 3 minutes away. Also located
along Weld Quay, it’s one of the quieter clan jetties in Penang. It belongs to
the Tan clan, whose ancestors were Chinese immigrants who worked as fishermen
and dock workers.
The jetty still maintains its traditional wooden houses on stilts and ends with a small red shrine dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, reflecting the community’s connection to the sea. In the later part of the day, especially towards the evening, you’ll also find unassuming Penang food dining spots in the area.
Wonderfood Museum
From the outside, you might feel like you made the wrong decision to include Wonderfood Museum as part of your Penang visit. But step inside, and it’s food, glorious food. Not just about what to eat in Penang, but a showcase of what to eat across Malaysia. These aren’t real dishes, but hand-crafted plastic and silicone replicas that look surprisingly real. There are also large poster-like wall art and panels alongside the displays across this two-storey museum.
In the information section, colourful murals and clear labels introduce Malaysian dishes from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan cuisines, while miniature scenes show street food stalls and daily eating habits. At the educational section, be prepared for thought-provoking visuals, decorated rooms, shark fin soup displays with disturbing imagery, and a striking final exhibit of a child searching for scraps of food. A strong reminder to think about those who go hungry, while others fuss and complain about food.
Be warned, Wonderfood Museum will make you hungry, and once the tour ends, you’ll likely be eager to eat for real.
It’s all about fun moments, taking as many photos as you like, posing and fitting yourself into the creative 3D scenes painted on the walls and floors that look real in photos. That’s exactly what the 3D Trick Art Museum is. You can pretend you're flying on a magic carpet, getting chased by a shark, walking down a Penang street, or riding a bicycle with ET and soaring through the sky.
Not for everyone though, if you’re not into posing for pictures, you might find it boring or not worth the time. But for others, especially families with kids, couples, or those experiencing it for the first time, the museum is all about playful and creative photo-taking moments.
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