19 Best Places To Visit In Penang At Night: A Comprehensive Guide -

Are you visiting Penang, Malaysia, and wondering what are the best places to visit in Penang at night? Well, don’t stress, because you are at the best place to figure it out!

Penang is known as one of the most vibrant and multicultural cities in Asia. This Malaysian island, located within the Strait of Malacca, is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in Asia.

With a dizzying array of street food, temples, and colonial-era architecture, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to this city for a taste of the Orient.

But what about after dark? Here is our list of the 19 best places to visit in Penang at night. From delicious food, vibrant night markets, amazing entertainment, and cultural centers, there is something for everyone!

So get ready to explore all that Penang has to offer after the sun goes down.

DISCLOSURE

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At A Glance: 19 Best Places To Visit In Penang At Night

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Feast your senses on the sights and smells of George Town on a half-day culinary tour, ideal for food lovers with limited time in Penang

Or you can eat like a local, feel like a local with this street food tour

You can escape to the countryside of Penang without the risk of getting lost on the way out of George Town on this action-packed half-day cycling tour

Or you can avoid canned tours with itineraries that are set in stone with this customizable highlights tour of Penang. You can pick 7 attractions of your choice!

1. Live Music Clubs

As the night progresses, it is time to venture into one of Penang’s live music clubs and enjoy the amazing nightlife in Penang.

There are countless venues to choose from, so you are sure to find something that suits your taste.

Hard Rock Cafe And Hotel

If you want to explore the best of Batu Ferringhi, Penang, then you must visit Hard Rock Cafe Penang.

It has everything for the night lover. Delicious burgers, handcrafted cocktails, and a cozy ambiance. You are sure to be entertained at the beachfront hotel and enjoy your night.

Location: Batu Ferringhi Beach 11100, Penang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday, and Sunday (12 pm to 11 pm)

Friday and Saturday (12 pm to 12 am)

Kim Haus

If you are looking for an intimate location to enjoy a live band, then you must visit Kim Haus.

The food is tasty, the interior design is pleasant and the price is good. What more do you need?

Location: No. 9 & 11 Campbell Street, 10100 George Town,

Penang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open Daily from 8 am to 10 pm

The Loft – Love Lane

If you are looking for some classic Italian food, you must visit The Loft – Love Lane.

It serves delicious handcrafted Italian Pizza and the atmosphere is cozy and romantic. Additionally, the music is entertaining and the food is affordable.

Be sure to order some homemade Tiramisu which receives rave reviews. Just the way to cool down after a day of exploring Penang.

Location: 57, Love Ln, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open Daily from 12 pm to 12 am.

2. Hipster Bars

Hipster bars are definitely interesting places to visit in Penang at night. You can talk to locals or just hang out with ex-pats – everybody is welcome. The only requirement is that you have the right attitude!

Hipster bars are an inclusive space where people who don’t fit in anywhere else can go and feel like they belong.

These bars are also something of an artistic outlet for people who want to perform their songs or show off their paintings on the wall behind the bar. Hipster bars are a great way to explore the creative side of Penang!

Micke’s Place Love Lane

If you love unique and simple bars, then you must visit Micke’s Place, which is a backpackers favorite choice in Penang.

It is most ideal for patrons who love football, beers, and pizzas. If that sounds like you, then you have to go here.

Location: 94 Love Lane, 10200, George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open daily from 5 pm to 2 am.

The Beach Bar Penang

Are you a party animal? If the answer is a YES, then do visit The Beach Bar Penang. It offers the best of both worlds.

You can enjoy a fun night dancing out with friends. After that, fill up your tummy with their tasty meals which are affordable with large portions to boot.

Location: 3H & 3I, Jalan Penang, 10000, George Town, Penang,
Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open Daily from 3 pm to 11.30 pm

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3. Movie Night In George Town

George Town also has plenty of movie houses to choose from. While most cinemas are concentrated along Lebuh Chulia on the southern end of George Town, one can find some on the northern side as well.

If you are a movie buff and need to end your day with a relaxing film, here is an option for you.

TGV Gurney Paragon

The TGV Cinema Chain is among the most established cinema brands in Malaysia. You can be sure to enjoy a safe and comfortable movie experience.

Buy your tickets online to avoid any disappointment of losing out on your preferred seats or showtimes.

Location: Level 8, Gurney Paragon Mall, Lorong Kelawai, 10250 George
Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open daily depending on your showtimes.

4. The Penang Esplanade

Esplanade is one of the must-visit places to visit in Penang at night . This is one of the most popular destinations in Penang, which features a bustling night market, open-air bar, indoor food court, and dance clubs.

The food court offers a variety of local cuisines at affordable prices. Depending on the season you visit, you may find beautiful sculptures in the open field that you can admire and take some photos with.

It is located at the waterfront and you can be sure to enjoy a relaxing walk and feel the breeze after a yummy meal.

Location: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah and Esplanade Road, George
Town, Penang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: 24/7 as this is publicly accessed with no entry fees

5. Eat At Gurney Drive

Gurney Drive is a beautiful seafront promenade located in the heart of George Town, Penang. This popular spot is home to an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, serving up a wide variety of delicious dishes.

Whether you’re looking for Malaysian street food or international cuisine, Gurney Drive has something for everyone! If you are bored and wondering where to go at night in Penang, go to Gurney Drive.

Here are some options for you to check out while you are there:

Gurney Drive Hawker Centre

If you are struggling to decide what to eat, then the best way to try everything is to visit Gurney Drive Hawker Centre. You can see the best of local and international cuisines at amazing prices.

If you are adventurous about the food you eat, then please do come here.

Location: 172, Solok Gurney 1, Pulau Tikus, 10250 Jelutong, Pulau
Pinang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open daily except for Tuesdays from 4.30 pm to 8 pm

Alan Burger Gurney Corner

If you fancy yourself some Malaysian Styled burgers, please visit Alan Burger Gurney Corner. There are all types of customized burgers that you can find for your wide preferences.

Location: Beside Seafood Oriental, Georgetown, 10250 George

Town,Penang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open daily except for Thursdays from 4 pm to 8 pm

6. Karpal Singh Drive

Karpal Singh Drive is yet another of the best places to visit in Penang at night ! It is a prominent waterfront and a lovely place to walk at night to enjoy the cool breeze.

The promenade was renamed after a renowned and dear politician, the late Mr. Karpal Singh. He frequently defended the oppressed and was very much loved by his constituents.

An iconic landmark of the street is the Wadda Gurudwara Sahib which was built by 36 Sikh veterans.

7. Batu Ferringhi Night Market

The Batu Ferringhi Night Market is one of the most popular night markets in Penang and stretches for 1 kilometer. It is a great place to find souvenirs, clothes, and street food. The market is open every night from 7 pm to midnight.

An important tip for you to remember, please. A lot of items sold here are lower-quality fake goods.

It is perfectly fine to buy them, but you are encouraged to barter and negotiate accordingly so you do not feel ripped off when you look back at your purchases.

If the thought of bargaining makes you sweat, you can try some of these bargaining methods on your mother first. After all, who does it better than them?

8. Trek At Habitat Sunset Walk In Penang

You can enjoy a beautiful view of Penang from the Sunset Walk. It is a rainforest and you can visit the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk.

The pathway winds through the lowland rainforest and offers some amazing views. It’s great to explore Malaysia’s natural beauty. You will also be able to see some beautiful creatures such as the Giant Flying Rest Squirrel or the Penang Gecko.

You can buy your tickets online. It costs around USD 13 or RM 55.

Address: Jalan Stesen, Bukit Bendera Air Itam, 11500 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open Daily from 9 am to 7 pm.

9. Guided Run At George Town

If you are an avid runner, you can try to register for a guided run. However, the schedules are not fixed. It varies depending on the season and festivals.

You can also reach out to this small running community in Penang called We Run George Town, where they like to run in groups.

However, if you prefer to run on your own, these are some of the recommended routes. Alternatively, you need not run, you can just go for a Penang night walk using the same routes.

10. Hang Out With Penang’s Couchsurfers

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Penang, why not spend some time with its Couchsurfing community? Couchsurfing is a website and app that connects travelers with locals who are willing to offer them a place to stay.

This can be a great way to get to know the culture and customs of a new place. Penang is especially popular for this due to its lively community of friendly people who are always happy to meet travelers from around the world.

Luckily for you, there are currently 4,363 Couchsurfing Hosts in Penang. A lot of visitors also use the Hangouts function to ask for a relaxing meet-up.

11. Meet Local Writers At The Malaysian Writers Society

The Malaysian Writers Society is a great place to meet local writers and learn more about the writing process. This society is open to all writers, regardless of experience or genre.

Members can attend workshops, lectures, and other events that are held throughout the year. The Malaysian Writers Society also offers opportunities for members to publish their work.

If you are looking for a supportive community of writers, then the Malaysian Writers Society is definitely worth checking out!

12. Fine Dining At Ferringhi Garden Restaurant

Ferringhi Garden Restaurant offers a unique fine dining experience that is perfect for special occasions. The restaurant is located in a beautifully landscaped garden, and the setting is simply enchanting.

Guests can enjoy a wide variety of delicious dishes that are prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The service is excellent, and the staff is very friendly and hospitable.

Do try out Ferringhi Garden Restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience. You will have an unforgettable night in Penang here.

Location: 34, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Batu Feringgi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Opens daily from 4 pm to 10 pm.

13. Tour Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the most popular attractions in Malaysia. This Buddhist temple is surrounded by scenic mountains and lush green gardens.

It is one of the largest Chinese Buddhist Temples in South East Asia.

The temple is also home to stunning sculptures that are carved into the rocks. It overlooks the sea and is a popular spot for viewing sunsets.

If you like Chinese Zodiacs, then you will be interested to know that there are 12 animal statues around the temple that symbolize them.

Location: 1000L, Tingkat Lembah Ria 1, 11500 Air Hitam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Opens daily from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.

14. Enjoy Scenic Views At Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant And Rooftop Bar

One of the latest additions to Penang’s nightlife scene, this restaurant is a classier affair than some of its counterparts. The restaurant also has a rooftop bar where you can enjoy views of the ocean and city lights.

As the name promises, the dining hall revolves a complete 360 degrees. This is a glorious way to enjoy Penang at night.

You can eat world-famous Peranakan Cuisine in this luxurious restaurant which boasts one of the best dinner buffets in Penang.

Location: 25-A Lebuh Farquhar 10200, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang

Opening Hours: Opens daily from 4 pm to 12 am.

15. Go For Sunset A Cruise

One of the great ways to spend an evening at Penang is by taking part in one of the many available sunset cruises. This would be a beautiful Penang night tour.

These cruises take you away from the hustle and bustle that comes with living on land and instead put you face-to-face with nature’s serene beauty- perfect for freeing your mind and relaxing!

Straits Quay Sunset Cruise offers private charter sail around Penang Island and to Langkawi. They are able to cater to various functions and decorate according to your preferences. The price will vary according to your group size and event needs.

Location: Straits Quay Marina, Jalan Seri Tanjong Pinang 10470 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

16. Go For Night Tours

There is no shortage of things to do in Penang at night. The island is home to a variety of nightclubs, bars, and restaurants that will keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning.

However, if you’re looking for a more unique experience, why not go for a night tour? There is a range of tours that will take you on a journey through the island’s best nightspots.

From cultural tours to bar crawls, there are night activities in Penang for everyone!

Here are some tours you can consider booking:

Evening Food Discovery Tour In Penang

Covers: A friendly guide, F&B drop off, and pick up at your hotel.

Price: USD 63 or RM 265

Penang’s Nite Ate-Venture By Vespalicious

Covers: English Speaking Guide, Vespa Captain, F&B, safety equipment, and entrance fees

Price: USD 95 or RM 400

George Town Night Food Tour

Covers: A friendly guide, F&B at selected food stalls, drinks

Price: USD 59 or RM 248

Penang City Half Day Private Guided Tour

Covers: Pick up and drop off at hotel, dinner, visit Penang’s Landmarks

Price: USD 34 or RM 143

There is no shortage of Penang attractions at night if you book any of these tours.

17. Explore Penang Hill

A very popular destination for tourists, Penang Hill is located 10 minutes outside the city center. The highest point stands at 833 meters (2733 ft) above sea level.

You can reach the top by taking the Funicular Railway. This railway system is the only one of its kind in Malaysia. So be sure to try this.

When you reach the peak, be ready to enjoy the most breathtaking views that Penang can offer.

You can buy your tickets at their official site or over the counter.

Location: Tingkat 7, Bangunan Perbadanan Bukit Bendera Pulau Pinang, Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera, 11500 Air Itam, Pulau Pinang

Operating Hours: Railway Service: Daily from 7 am to 10 pm. Ticket Sales close at 7.30 pm.

Price: USD 19 or RM 80

18. Soho Free House

When it comes time for a coffee break, head over to Soho Free House. It is a British-style pub in George Town. It is a popular hangout spot for the ex-pats who live in Penang.

In addition to free Wi-Fi and an extensive drinks menu, they offer a variety of bar snacks from their kitchen. You will feel like you are in a colonial-era environment when you dine at Soho Free House.

Location: 50A, Jalan Penang, George Town, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open Daily from 12 pm to 12 am.

19. Enjoy Art At The Canteen At China House

This is a modern culinary space located in the heart of Georgetown. It is always evolving with an ever-changing roster of artwork from local and international artists on display throughout the restaurant.

When you dine at The Canteen At China House, you will be surrounded by art on all sides during your meal.

There is even a designated eating section set away from the hustle and bustle of the kitchen that has no obstructions on any walls for a more serene dining experience.

Spend your time enjoying a chilled glass of ice tea or indulge in their complex coffees which are blended to give them that perfect jolt to awaken your senses. This is one of the top-ranking places to go in Penang at night, especially for art and music lovers.

Location: 183b Lebuh Victoria 10300, George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Open Daily from 10 am to 12 am.

Where Is Penang And How To Go There?

Penang is in the northwest of Malaysia. With the rapid development in the country, Penang has changed over time and is now a popular tourist destination. A broad variety of accommodation is available to suit all budgets.

Airline routes from all over the world connect to Penang International Airport; ferries provide scheduled service from Singapore and Malaysia.

The Penang Bridge connects George Town to Seberang Perai in Malaysia and is an important link for traffic and trade.

How To Go To Penang From Kuala Lumpur

You can go to Penang by bus, flight, train or car. The easiest way would be to take a flight or bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang.

You can fly to the Penang International Airport which takes around 50 minutes. Alternatively, you could take the bus from the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur to George Town, which will take about 8 hours.

A train is also an option for getting to Penang but it might take more than one day so you have to think about your plans before deciding on this option.

What Is Penang Known For?

Penang is known for its soft sandy beaches. It is known as the best food destination in Malaysia. Some of the best places to visit in Penang are Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah, Penang Hill, Snake Temple, and Gurney Drive. Penang is also known as the Pearl of the Orient with its strong Chinese cultural roots.

The island has been a melting pot of cultures for centuries, and this is evident in the food, architecture, and way of life found there. Visitors can enjoy a delicious mix of Malay, Indian, Chinese, and European cuisine, as well as explore colonial-era buildings and temples.

What Is There To Do In Penang Hill At Night?

Penang Hill is one of the top places to visit in Penang at night! Do take note that the various activities have different operating times.

Here are some Penang Night Attractions at Penang Hill:

1) Take the Penang Hill Funicular Train

2) Visit The Habitat Penang Hill

3) Dine At David Brown’s Restaurant

4) Visit The Owl Museum

5) Enjoy A Hiking Trail

What Should I Eat At Night In Penang?

One of the best things about Penang is the incredible food options available. From delicious street food to upscale restaurants, there is something for everyone!

There is no shortage of places to visit in Penang at night.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are some of the best dishes that can be found in most places in Penang:

1) Best Nasi Kandar:

This traditional Malaysian dish is made up of steamed rice and a variety of curries.

Name: Hameediyah Nasi Kandar

Location: 164A, Lebuh Campbell, 10200, George Town, Penang

Operating Hours: Opens daily from 10 am to 10.3 pm

2) Best Char Kuey Teow:

This dish is made up of stir-fried noodles, shrimp, chicken, and eggs.

Name: Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow

Location: 82, Jalan Siam, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Opens daily from 12 pm to 6 pm

3) Best Hokkien Mee:

This dish is made up of stir-fried noodles with pork, shrimp, squid, and vegetables.

Name: Ah Koo’s Hokkien Mee

Location: 126 Jln Perak, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Operating Hours: Opens daily from 8 am to 11.30 am except for Tuesdays

4) Best Laksa:

This dish is made up of a spicy coconut milk soup with rice noodles, shrimp, fish cake, and bean sprouts.

Name: Laksa Under The Tree

Location: Jalan Data Ismail Hashim, Sungai Ara, 11900, Bayan Lepas, Penang

Operating Hours: Opens daily from 12.30 pm to 6 pm except for Tuesdays

5) Best Satay:

These are skewers of marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or pork) that are grilled and served with a peanut sauce.

Name: Satay Mama Mieda

Location: 03-1-15, Krystal Point Corporate Park, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang

Operating Hours: Opens Daily from 11am to 8pm

6) Best Rojak:

This dish is made up of a variety of fruits and vegetables that are tossed in a sweet and sour sauce.

Name: Hock Seng Rojak

Location: Gat Lebuh Cecil, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Opens from Wednesday to Sunday from 3 pm to 8.30 pm

7) Best Cendol:

This dessert is made up of shaved ice, sweet syrups, and coconut milk topped with jelly, corn, and red beans.

Name: Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul

Location: Jalan Penang, George Town, 10450 Pulau Pinang

Operating Hours: Weekdays (10.30 am to 7 pm) Weekends (10.30 am to 7.30 pm)

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks! This is the most comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Penang at night! I hope you enjoy exploring this beautiful island that has managed to keep its culture and heritage intact. Happy travels and please stay safe.