City Guide | Georgetown, Malaysia
Georgetown is the capital of Penang, a vibrant island off Malaysia’s west coast - and it is the perfect blend of city and nature. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its street art, colonial architecture, and delicious food scene. It’s one of those places that feels alive, buzzing with backpackers, locals, and late-night wanderers. Whether you're looking for art, noodles, or just a good view, Georgetown has a little magic tucked into every alley.
The view from Penang Hill
City Wide Art Hunt
The street art here is amazing. I'm talking building tall murals, 3D pieces, and interactive photo ops. You can grab a map with the stops marked from any hotel, hostel or tourist information location. Pick one up and guide yourself through the city by following the numbered path, or jumping around to whatever piques your interest most, very pick-your-own-adventure-novel-esque.
Take your time wandering through an open-air gallery as big as the city itself.
Spend a Night Out on Love Lane
Have you ever been to Khao San Road in Bangkok and wished there was a more low-key version? May I present Love Lane. Enjoy connecting with like-minded travellers on a muggy night over a cold bottle of Tiger Beer, while appreciating the quieter intimacy of this backpacker favourite across the border.
The name Love Lane is thought to come from either the narrow street having originally hosted brothels or perhaps just where the mistresses of wealthy men lived. But either way, it now plays host to bars with tables pouring out into the street into the wee hours of the night, street food to curb the drunken appetites and in the day the cafes are packed.
Feeling Hungry?
I don't think I had a single miss while in Georgetown, whether it's the late-night street food, a cute café on Love Lane, or a small family restaurant, I was thrilled, but a couple that I still think about? Easy!
Let's start with Wheeler's. At night, they are part of the party, serving drinks until late, and during the day, they become more of a café, serving delicious coffee and mouthwatering food. I typically stand firmly on the side of no pineapple pizza in the age-old debate; however, their pineapple-covered 'za?? *Chef's kiss*
Yeap Noodles, located just down the road from Love Lane, has some fantastic noodle soups and bowls. Beware the spice levels, though, even if you think you're good with heat, the ones in the black boxes are no joke! We went back twice, and the second time I thought I would take on the highest spice level... I was tearing up and my nose would not stop running... but they were delicious once I recovered!
Penang Hill: To Hike or Not To Hike?
I am not a fan of stairs when it comes to hiking. They're uneven and they mess with my natural stride. Maybe it's because I'm five feet tall and my legs are too short, but I would rather a good old dirt trail instead. Penang Hill? Tons of stairs. There's a few different trails to the top so make sure you have some sort of map like AllTrails and start climbing!
There is nowhere along the way to fill up water, so be sure to pack enough to keep you hydrated in the Malaysian heat! I won't lie, by the time we got to the top we were halfway to heatstroke, we did not come prepared and we paid for it! But the view? Worth every stair. While you’re at the top, explore the shops, restaurants and other attractions before heading back down.
Want to enjoy the view without the struggle? There's also a funicular that runs right to the top, so if you don't feel like hiking you can still take in the view of Georgetown below. You can buy tickets on site, but during peak-season the line can be long, so be prepared to wait.
If you’re looking for more nature, make sure you add the Cameron Highlands to your Malaysian itinerary. There are tons of trails running through forests, next to waterfalls and overlooking the rolling hills of tea plantations.
