George Town, the vibrant heart of Penang’s tourism, is a city where history and modernity collide in a delightful blend of sensory experiences. Streets lined with ornate doorways, intricate floor tiles, and the well-known five-foot walkways offer shelter from the intense tropical elements, making every stroll a unique adventure.
Penang is a lush, tropical hub where the distinct Peranakan heritage merges seamlessly with modern Asian influences, creating a living museum of colors, sounds, and aromas. The contrasts are everywhere—from ancient Chinese medicine shops standing next to mobile phone vendors, to the vibrant murals of school boys and fishermen that watch over bustling street food carts, bringing the city’s lively spirit to life.
Exploring George Town’s UNESCO-listed streets, we couldn’t resist being drawn in by the city’s charm. Our days were filled with enjoying street food, sipping coffee, shopping for textiles, and visiting museums. Amidst this, several must-see spots stood out.
Lebuh Armenian
The lively chaos of Lebuh Armenian, or Armenian Street, is a must-experience. This vibrant road captures the essence of George Town, especially with its colonial architecture. Walking down Lebuh Armenian takes you through the heart of the city to the famous clan jetties, with plenty of opportunities to see Penang’s iconic street art, like the famous ‘Little Children on a Bicycle’. The Penang Batik Art Museum is also worth a visit along the way.
Studio Howard
Howard Tan, a well-known artist, captures the essence of Penang in his work, and his studio on Lebuh Armenian is a treasure trove of prints, postcards, and art books that document George Town’s unique charm. The shop also features earth pots by Fuan Wong, quirky fragrances by Josh Lee, pottery by Alex Tan, and handmade jute and batik bags, making it a delightful spot for art lovers.
Bon Ton
In my quest to find beautiful ikat and batik textiles, Bon Ton quickly became my favorite shop in George Town. Despite being disappointed by the offerings at the popular tourist spot Sam’s Batik, Bon Ton stood out with its vibrant selection of Indian kantha blankets, block prints, and Malaysian antiques, making it the perfect place for souvenir shopping.
Ren I Tang
Ren I Tang, Southeast Asia’s first Chinese medical hall, is a living testament to the preservation of Penang’s heritage. This 19th-century building now houses Bistro Tang, a quaint gift shop, and a 17-room inn that I wished I had stayed in. The style, described as ‘Straits eclectic’ by the management, blends original fittings and furniture with new pieces crafted from reclaimed timber, creating a unique atmosphere.
Sun Yat-sen Museum
The Sun Yat-sen Museum, housed in a former residence of the founding father of modern China, is steeped in revolutionary history. The blue plaster walls seem to whisper tales of dissidents and rebels who once gathered here. The friendly staff are happy to answer any questions while you enjoy a complimentary cup of green tea. Don’t miss the kitchen at the back for a glimpse into the past.
Kopi Loewak
George Town is one of the places where you can try Malaysia’s famous kopi luwak, or civet coffee, which involves a unique preparation process. Kopi Loewak, located on Armenian Street, offers not only this intriguing brew but also a pleasant terrace that’s perfect for people-watching.
China House
China House, set in a beautifully restored colonial building, is a multifaceted space offering dining, drinking, and shopping experiences within its courtyard. Canteen at China House is known for its excellent breakfast and an irresistible selection of house-baked cakes. The building also hosts a branch of Bon Ton and a breezy exhibition space upstairs. If you’re in search of a traditional ikat souvenir, this is one of the few places where you’ll find naturally dyed, handmade scarves from Malaysia.
And of course, no visit to Penang would be complete without exploring its incredible food scene. For a comprehensive taste of the city’s culinary delights, I highly recommend a guided tour with Food Tour Penang.
