Ever since it was listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2008, visitors have been flocking to George Town. Between street art, food vendors, boutique cafés and markets, Penang is Malaysia’s trendiest place to hang out for now.
Why you should visit Penang
Penang is known as one of the most densely populated states in Malaysia. Want to know why it’s so popular? It’s because of the food (cheap and tasty), the street art and the trending arts and culture scene.
What you need to know
As long as you’re traveling in from another state in Penang (even from East Malaysia), you don’t need a visa. In fact, it is very easy to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang and there are a number of ways to do so.
1. Catch a budget flight
Your best bet is AirAsia(check the fare comparison with Skyscanner as well), which will cost less than RM200 (USD $50) for a return flight(from KL). A one-way trip takes only an hour. As flying from KL to Penang is considered a domestic flight, Malaysians can use their National ID card for boarding. Foreigners will need their passports.
I would recommend this route if you’re short on time and well-endowed with money.
2. Hop the ETS train
Operated by the national railway company Keretapi Tanah Melayu(KTM), the Electronic Train Service (ETS) runs a route from KL Sentral to Penang (Butterworth) five times a day. Each ride takes up to 4 hours, depending on the number of stops between KL and Penang. Tickets start from RM59 (USD $14.75).
3. Ride the coach
This is the cheapest option, even if it does take up to 4.5 hours. You’ll be able to find a comfortable bus ride for under RM40 (USD $10), but if you’re up for a little luxury (extra leg room and a small meal), then i would recommend you to consider Aeroline, which charges RM60 (USD $15) per one-way trip.
Coaches typically depart from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) or for Aeroline will be at Corus Hotel and arrive in Sungai Nibong bus terminal or at Queensbay Mall(for Aeroline bus) in Penang. We recommend this option if you prefer having travel stops, as coaches will typically take a short 10 to 15 minute break.
I hope this will help you to plan your journey to Penang. Check out the link below for more tips & info about Penang.
Cheap Public Transport to Use in Penang
How to Move Around in Penang for FREE?
