Penang
George Town, the hill and the forest
The island packs an unusual amount into a small area. George Town, its UNESCO-listed capital, is a grid of Straits Chinese shophouses, clan jetties built on stilts over the water, Chinese temples, an Indian quarter and British colonial buildings, all within walking distance of each other and covered in the street art that has become the city’s trademark. Little Children on a Bicycle, Boy on a Motorbike and the wrought-iron caricatures are scattered through the old town, and hunting them down is a good way to see streets you would otherwise walk straight past.
Above the city, a funicular railway climbs to eight hundred metres, where the air is noticeably cooler and colonial bungalows sit among the trees. The Habitat up there runs a canopy walkway and a swaying rope bridge through remaining rainforest, with dusky leaf monkeys, giant black squirrels and hornbills usually somewhere in the branches. Inland, the nutmeg estates and spice gardens show what was exported from here long before tourism arrived, and the Tropical Spice Garden on the north coast makes a pleasant, shaded hour.
Food is the other reason people come. Char kway teow, assam laksa, nasi kandar and cendol are all local specialities, and the hawker centres at Gurney Drive and New Lane are where to try them; every one of our tours leaves room for a proper stop rather than a rushed photograph. Vegetarians are particularly well served in the Indian quarter around Little India.
All excursions here are private, with an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transport and pick-up at Swettenham Pier, a few minutes on foot from the old town. Groups stay small, the route is built around your ship’s departure, and we will tell you honestly what fits the hours you have ashore.
Our Penang shore excursions cover George Town, Penang Hill and the island rainforest.
Penang Shore Excursions
Discover Penang, the “Pearl of the Orient”, on a private shore excursion with Bakadi Dreams. This captivating Malaysian island is a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian and colonial British influences – reflected in its stunning architecture, vibrant street art, world-famous food scene and lush tropical nature.
🏘️ Georgetown – A UNESCO World Heritage City
The heart of Penang is Georgetown, one of Southeast Asia’s best-preserved colonial cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through streets lined with ornate Chinese clan houses, colourful Hindu temples, grand colonial mansions and the famous street art murals that have made Georgetown an Instagram sensation. Every corner tells a story spanning centuries of multicultural history.
🌳 Penang Hill & The Habitat
For nature lovers, a trip to Penang Hill rewards you with panoramic views over the island, the mainland and the Strait of Malacca. At the top, The Habitat offers an extraordinary rainforest canopy walkway high above the jungle floor – a thrilling treetop experience through one of the world’s oldest rainforests, with stunning views and close encounters with tropical wildlife and flora.
🍜 A Food Lover’s Paradise
Penang is consistently ranked among the world’s best street food destinations. From char kway teow and assam laksa to nasi kandar and cendol – the island’s hawker centres and street stalls are a feast for the senses. Our tours give you the chance to taste the best of Penang’s legendary food culture.
✨ Why Book with Bakadi Dreams?
- 🗣️ Friendly English-speaking guides who know Penang inside out
- 👥 Small, private groups – no big coach crowds
- 🚢 Guaranteed return to your cruise ship in good time
- ⭐ 20+ years of experience with cruise passengers worldwide
Choose your Penang tour below – every excursion includes pick-up and drop-off at the Penang cruise terminal.
Penang Shore Excursions with Bakadi Dreams
Penang is the cultural heart of Malaysia. First you choose heritage George Town, green Penang Hill or the rainforest. Then a friendly English-speaking guide plans your day. Moreover, every tour runs at a relaxed pace. Above all, we guarantee a punctual return to your cruise ship.
