Get Around Penang: The Easy, Honest Transport Guide for First-Time Visitors
If you’re planning your first trip to Penang, chances are you’re already thinking about food.
Good.
But between the char koay teow and cendol, you still need to get around.
Ideally not get scammed, stranded, or sweaty (well, less sweaty).
Here’s the real deal on how to move through Penang—without losing your temper or your sense of humor.
Contents
🚗 Grab or Drive: Which Works Best?
Grab (Malaysia’s answer to Uber) is the easiest way to get around if you’re not renting a car.
It’s app-based, cashless, and most drivers speak decent English.
Good for: Airport runs, city transfers, late-night rides
Not great: During rush hour or when it rains (wait times jump)
Smart Tip: Book in advance if you’re catching a flight or heading to a tourist hotspot like Batu Ferringhi.
Thinking of renting a car?
Do it only if you’re exploring the mainland or outer Penang.
Driving in George Town is like playing Tetris blindfolded—tight one-way streets, limited parking, and surprise road closures.
🛵 Scooter Life: Only If You’ve Got Skills
Renting a motorbike gives you flexibility, but this isn’t Vietnam—it’s a jungle of trucks, buses, and rogue cyclists.
You’ll need: An International Driving Permit with a motorcycle license
They drive on: The left side of the road
Dress for battle: Sunglasses, long sleeves, helmet on always
SmartDory Says: If you’re not already good on two wheels, skip it. The road will eat you.
🚆 KTM Train to Butterworth (Then Ferry)
Coming from Kuala Lumpur?
Skip the bus, take the KTM ETS train to Butterworth.
Travel time: About 4 hours
Next step: Walk 5 minutes to the ferry terminal and hop on to George Town
Pro Tip: Book tickets early during holidays—it fills up fast
The ferry ride is cheap, breezy, and drops you right into the heart of the city. Zero complaints.
🚌 Luxury Buses (Aeroline & Friends)
Express buses are a comfy and affordable way in from KL or other states.
Depart from: KL Sentral, One Utama, or TBS
Arrive at: Sungai Nibong or Penang Sentral
Perks: Reclining seats, snacks, sometimes Wi-Fi
SmartDory Says: Aeroline is the smoothest ride. If you’re doing it, do it right.
🚡 Penang Hill: The Funicular Fix
To reach the top of Penang Hill, take the funicular train from the station in Air Itam.
Fastest way up: 5–10 minutes
Hours: 6:30 AM to 10 PM
Views: Panoramic cityscape and cooler air
Skip the line: Book online. Weekend queues are no joke.
🚙 Jeep It Down
Want a less crowded way down from Penang Hill?
Hire a jeep from The Habitat.
It’ll drop you at the Botanical Gardens, and the ride is a mini-adventure on its own.
Ask staff at the top for jeep times and rates
Best option if you hiked or stayed past sunset
🚌 Getting Around by Bus
Penang’s Rapid Penang buses go almost everywhere and are super cheap.
Fares: RM 1–4 depending on distance
Apps to check: Moovit, Google Maps, or Grab
CAT Bus: Free hop-on, hop-off in the George Town heritage zone
Drawback: Delays happen, especially in rain or jammed traffic and rush hour.
🚶 Walking in George Town
Walking is hands down the best way to explore George Town’s character.
You’ll see street art, temples, hidden cafés, and street food you’d miss from a moving car.
Best times: Mornings and late afternoons
Wear: Breathable clothes, good shoes, and carry an umbrella (sun and rain are both rude)
🚴 Cycling: Great If You Stay Central
Penang is slowly becoming more cycle-friendly, especially within George Town.
Rent from: Hotels or local bike shops
Car-Free Sundays: Some roads are closed to traffic for bikes and walkers
Heads up: Drivers are unpredictable and lanes are narrow. Stay sharp.
🚕 Taxis: Rarely Worth It
You’ll still see traditional taxis, but most don’t use meters.
Grab is the safer and more transparent option every time.
🛳️ Butterworth to Penang Ferry
If you’re coming from the mainland, take the ferry. It’s cheap, scenic, and drops you right in the city.
From: Penang Sentral (Butterworth)
To: George Town Ferry Terminal
Cost: Just a few ringgit
SmartDory Says: Take it at least once. For the breeze and the view.
🅿️ Penang Parking FAQ
Do I have to pay for parking?
Yes. Most areas in George Town and tourist zones are metered.
How do I pay?
Use the Penang Smart Parking app (available on Android and iOS). Alternatively, buy scratch coupons from convenience stores.
What’s the cost?
RM 0.40 to RM 1.00 per hour depending on the zone.
When is parking free?
- Sundays
- Public Holidays
- Some areas are also free after 6 PM (always check signage)
Can I still pay with coins?
Most meters are now app-based.
🧠 Quick Travel Tips to Keep You Sane
Don’t trust zebra crossings blindly. Check both ways
Grab is king—but not instant during peak times
Use Google Maps, but double-check anything outside the core with locals
No trains on the island itself—only road transport
Bring cash for small stalls and buses
Pack patience—it’s Penang, not Tokyo
Final Word from SmartDory
Penang isn’t built for speed. It’s built for wandering.
So ditch the rigid schedule, eat your way through it, and get lost a little.
Use Grab for big jumps, walk for charm, and the CAT bus when you need a break from the sun.
