Rise of World Heritage City Penang Walking Heritage Tour
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Rise of World Heritage City Penang Walking Heritage Tour

Active
(1 reviews)
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the history of Penang on a guided walking tour of George Town. Learn about the rise of Penang from 1786 until present day and immerse yourself in the history of the island.

Begin your tour by meeting your guide in George Town. Walk into the real-life community of Penangites and learn about the food culture in Penang, which consists of different ethnicities, including Malay, Chinese, and Indian. Plus, The Peranakans, also known as the Babas and Nyonyas, was a prominent community of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world

See the architectural styles that showcase the cultures of different races and ethnicities. Discover the secret to living in peace and harmony on this UNESCO World Heritage island.

Available options

The Rise of World Heritage City - Penang: Walking Heritage Tour

ADD ON: Heritage Trishaw Ride

Heritage Trishaw: Enjoy this HERITAGE TRISHAW RIDE within George Town and uncover those secret alleys and amazing heritage buildings.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Cititel Penang, 66, Jln Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

What's included

Exploration of historical buildings
Complimentary snack tasting and Penang famous dessert - Chendol
Understanding of different ethnic living practices
Insight into the food culture of Penang
View of architectural styles showcasing different cultures
Small group of guest on each tour - max of 10 pax
Experienced and Professional Story Telling Guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

Fort Cornwallis is a bastion fort in George Town, Penang, Malaysia, built by the British East India Company in the late 18th century.

2

The Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower, also known as the Jubilee Clock Tower, is an Indo-Saracenic style clock tower within George Town in the Malaysian state of Penang.

3

The Esplanade is a seafront city square in the heart of George Town within the Malaysian state of Penang. It covers the field adjacent to Fort Cornwallis, known locally as the Padang, and the seaside promenade along the edge of the field.

4

The Town Hall is a British-built administrative building in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. It is located adjacent to the City Hall, which now serves as the seat of the Penang Island City Council.

5

The Logan Memorial is situated in front of the Penang High Court at Light Street in George Town, Malaysia, and was erected in memory of James Richardson Logan, Scottish lawyer and man of letters, who lived in the Straits Settlements in the 19th century.

6

St. George's Church is a 19th-century Anglican church within George Town in the Malaysian state of Penang. The oldest purpose-built Anglican church in Southeast Asia, it was elevated by to the status of pro-cathedral in 2023.

7

Historical High School which is built in 1787.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a government gazetted heritage building located on Leith Street in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. The mansion's external decorations and indigo-blue outer walls make it a very distinctive building, and it is sometimes referred to as The Blue Mansion.

9

Discover the heritage building and history of this street.

10

Discover the building and history behind.

11

The original Chowrasta market was built in 1890 within the settlement area of South Indian immigrants. In Urdu, the market’s name is translated into “four cross roads”.

You will be able to taste one of our local favourite snacks at Chowrasta Market.

12

Understand and enjoy a mouthwatering dessert at this famous street food spot.

13

The Tun Abdul Razak Complex (abbrev. Komtar) is a civic complex of five buildings within the central business district of George Town, Penang. It first opened on 2 December 1976. At the time of its completion in 1985, the central skyscraper of the complex, Komtar Tower, at 231.7 metres (760 ft), was the tallest skyscraper in Southeast Asia.

What's not included

Pick Up and Drop Off transportation excluded
Alcohol Beverage

Available languages

Guide guide
CMN YUE EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

For those who wish to experience the heritage trishaw ride, we will be meeting at this point for a trishaw ride before the start of our walking tour.

About Penang Island

Penang Island, known as the 'Pearl of the Orient,' is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its UNESCO-listed George Town, stunning beaches, and diverse cuisine, it offers a unique Southeast Asian experience.

Top Attractions

George Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial architecture, street art, and rich cultural heritage.

Historical/Cultural Full day Free to explore, individual attractions may have entry fees

Penang Hill

A popular hill station offering panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures.

Nature/Adventure Half day MYR 12 (Funicular ride)

Kek Lok Si Temple

One of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in Malaysia, known for its stunning architecture and the 30.2-meter tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin.

Religious/Cultural 2-3 hours Free, donations welcome

Batu Ferringhi Beach

A popular beach known for its white sand, water sports, and vibrant night market.

Beach Half day or full day Free, water sports and activities may have fees

Penang National Park

A protected area with diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and Monkey Beach.

Nature/Adventure Half day or full day MYR 5 (entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried rice cake strips with prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs, seasoned with soy sauce and chili.

Dinner Contains seafood, eggs, and soy. Can be made vegetarian.

Nasi Kandar

A meal of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes, often including meat, fish, and vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish. Vegetarian options available.

Roti Canai

A flaky, layered flatbread served with curry, often made from wheat flour, water, and ghee.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat and ghee. Vegetarian options available.

Penang Laksa

A spicy noodle soup made with rice noodles, prawns, fish cakes, and a tangy tamarind-based broth.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains seafood and fish. Vegetarian options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking at Penang Hill Water sports at Batu Ferringhi Beach Exploring Penang National Park Beach relaxation at Batu Ferringhi Spa treatments Tea plantation tours in Cameron Highlands Exploring George Town's street art Visiting temples and museums

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the dry season with cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24-32°C 75-90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Malay
  • Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Hokkien, Mandarin, Cantonese), Tamil
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Penang is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air
  • Penang International Airport • 15 km from George Town
By bus

Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with a network of buses covering most parts of the island. Easy to use with a single ticket system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

George Town Batu Ferringhi Chulia Street Gurney Drive

Day trips

Butterworth
4 km from George Town • Half day

A town on the mainland opposite Penang Island, known for its historic buildings, ferry services, and the famous Kek Lok Si Temple.

Langkawi
60 km from Penang • Full day or overnight

A tropical island known for its beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and lush landscapes.

Cameron Highlands
200 km from Penang • Full day or overnight

A highland region known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and lush landscapes.

Festivals

George Town Festival • Late July to early August Chinese New Year • January or February (varies by lunar calendar) Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies by lunar calendar (usually May or June)

Pro tips

  • Explore George Town's street art on foot for a unique and immersive experience
  • Try local street food at hawker centers for an authentic and affordable culinary adventure
  • Visit Penang Hill for panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures
  • Experience the vibrant night market at Batu Ferringhi for shopping, street food, and entertainment
  • Take a ferry to Butterworth for a day trip to explore the mainland and its attractions
Get Price per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 0-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook