Things To Do
Tropical Spice Garden | Events Venue | Cooking Classes | Spice Store
Just 7 minutes from Rasa Sayang, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape into nature. Wander through beautifully curated spice and herb trails, join a guided tour, or try your hand at a cooking class. It’s peaceful, lush, and perfect for those who want a break from the usual tourist spots. Great for couples, families, or even a quiet solo stroll.
ESCAPE Penang
ESCAPE Penang is located in Teluk Bahang, about a 15 to 20-minute drive from Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort in Batu Ferringhi, depending on traffic. It’s a great nearby option if you’re looking to break away from the beach and do something more adventurous, think zip-lining through the trees, climbing obstacles, or enjoying the massive waterpark. The whole place is nestled in nature, so it still feels very Penang, just with a lot more adrenaline!
Cheong Fatt Tze, The Blue Mansion
The Blue Mansion, also known as Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, is one of Penang’s most iconic landmarks, a stunning example of 19th-century Chinese architecture with its signature indigo-blue walls, intricate carvings, and inner courtyards. It’s not just a heritage gem, but also a pop culture icon, having been featured in Crazy Rich Asians as the backdrop for a glamorous mahjong scene. Whether you’re joining a guided tour or just admiring its beauty from the outside, the Blue Mansion is a must-visit for anyone wanting to soak up Penang’s rich history and cinematic charm.
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is one of those hidden gems that makes Penang so special. Step inside and you’ll be transported into the lavish world of the Straits Chinese community, think intricate tiles, gilded furniture, and heirlooms passed down through generations. It’s more than just a museum, it’s a beautifully preserved home filled with stories, perfect for anyone who loves heritage, design, or a peek into Penang’s rich cultural mix.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and one of Penang’s most iconic cultural sites. Perched on a hillside in Air Itam, the temple complex is a vibrant blend of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architecture, with intricate carvings, colourful prayer halls, and serene gardens. The towering 30-metre-tall statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) and the majestic pagoda make it a truly awe-inspiring sight. Whether you're here for the view, the culture, or the peaceful atmosphere, Kek Lok Si is well worth the climb, especially during Chinese New Year, when it lights up with thousands of lanterns.
The Habitat Penang Hill
If you're looking to take a breather from the city, The Habitat on Penang Hill is a beautiful spot to explore. It’s home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests and offers stunning views, quiet walking trails, and a peaceful connection to nature. Highlights include the Langur Way Canopy Walk and the Treetop Walk, where you can take in panoramic views of the island. It's especially lovely in the early morning or late afternoon, and if you're lucky, you might spot some native wildlife too. A great place to slow down and soak up Penang’s natural beauty.
Restaurant Ferringhi Garden
Ferringhi Garden is a long-time favourite in Batu Ferringhi, and for good reason. Just a short stroll from Rasa Sayang, it’s an easy and elegant dinner spot without needing to head into town. The food leans toward Western and Asian fusion, with a wide enough variety to please everyone, think steaks, seafood, pastas, and a solid wine list. But what really sets it apart is the setting. The garden is lush, full of tropical blooms and twinkling lights, with water features and little stone pathways that make it feel romantic and tucked away. It’s perfect for a relaxed yet beautiful evening out, whether you’re celebrating something or just want a quiet meal in a stunning setting.
Communal Table by Gēn 根
You will need a reservation but this was one of our favourite meals we've had together. Helmed by Chef Johnson Wong, the ever-evolving tasting menu showcases refined, contemporary interpretations of familiar Malaysian ingredients, presented with elegance and intention. The dining experience itself is intimate and interactive, with chefs plating and serving each course at a long communal table in front of you. A must-visit for food lovers seeking something meaningful, surprising, and truly Malaysian in spirit.
Auntie Gaik Lean's Old School Eatery
Aunty Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery is a Michelin-starred gem tucked in the heart of George Town, serving up authentic, time-honoured Nyonya recipes passed down through generations. What makes it special isn’t just the food, it’s the heart behind it. Aunty Gaik herself still runs the kitchen, insisting on using traditional methods, no shortcuts, and the freshest local ingredients. Expect classics like perut ikan, gulai tumis, and her signature pie tee, all bursting with flavour, balance, and heritage. The space is simple and nostalgic, often packed with locals and visitors who’ve heard about “that one place you must try.” Reservations are essential, and trust us, it’s worth planning ahead. This is Nyonya food done right, the way grandma would’ve made it.
Tek Sen Restaurant
Tek Sen is one of Penang’s most beloved institutions, famous for its double-roasted pork, homestyle dishes, and no-frills charm. It’s been around since the 1960s, and locals and tourists still queue daily for a table. In 2022, it was awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide for offering great food at great value, and it’s regularly featured in Time Out, The New York Times, and top foodie blogs. If you’re after bold, nostalgic flavours in a true Penang setting, this is the spot.
Viva Local Food Haven
Viva Local Food Haven is a modern-style hawker centre located about 10 minutes by car from Rasa Sayang Resort in Batu Ferringhi. It’s one of the more convenient spots nearby for a casual, fuss-free local food experience without heading all the way into town. You’ll find a good mix of Chinese, Malay, and Western-style hawker fare, think char koay teow, Hokkien mee, satay, sizzling noodles, grilled seafood, Thai tom yum, and even a Western stall serving chops and pastas. Drinks and dessert stalls are plentiful too, with local favourites like ais kacang and fresh fruit juices. Prices are very reasonable, around RM8 to RM15 per dish, depending on what you order. The environment is clean, open-air, and lively in the evenings. It’s popular among locals staying in the Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi area, especially for quick dinners after a beach day.
Hameediyah Restaurant
Hameediyah Restaurant is a Penang institution, Malaysia’s oldest nasi kandar restaurant, serving since 1907. Generations have come here for their richly spiced curries, tender mutton, ayam kapitan, and fragrant biryani. The food is bold, full of character, and distinctly Penang. And if you're visiting the popular Toh Soon Café just a few doors away, it's worth popping by Hameediyah after for a proper local lunch. They’re both on Campbell Street, right in the heart of George Town, a great way to experience two Penang legends, one after the other.
Via Pre Penang Italian Restaurant
Via Pre is one of those rare surprises, you don’t expect to find such solid, authentic Italian food tucked away in the heart of Georgetown, but it consistently delivers. From wood-fired pizzas to handmade pastas and classic antipasti, everything is unfussy but thoughtfully done. The ingredients are fresh, the flavours are honest, and the portions are generous in that comforting Italian way. The vibe is laid-back and casual, with just enough charm to make it feel special but not pretentious. Whether you’re in the mood for a long dinner with friends or a quiet glass of wine and burrata, Via Pre has a way of making you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a little slice of Italy, right here in Penang.
Ome by Spacebar Coffee
Ome is known for its meticulous focus on quality, showcasing rare, seasonal beans through hand brews and espresso. Their baristas are highly skilled, and the café has earned a spot on Asia’s Top 50 Cafés by Big 7 Travel, with strong praise from Malaysia’s coffee community. The space is minimalist, quiet, and intimate, more like a Tokyo coffee bar than your typical Penang café. Just a few seats, but that’s part of the charm. And since you’re right in the heart of George Town, it’s the perfect starting point to wander the area’s heritage streets, discover street art, and soak in the city’s rich character.
Toh Soon Cafe
Toh Soon Café is a beloved local gem and one of Penang’s most iconic kopitiams. Tucked in a little alley off Campbell Street, it’s famous for its charcoal-toasted bread, especially the kaya and butter toast, done the old-school way over open flames. Pair it with their thick Hainanese-style kopi or teh for the full nostalgic experience. It gets busy, but that’s part of the charm, the crowd, the clatter, the rhythm of Penang mornings. Simple, authentic, and full of heart, a must-visit if you want a true taste of local life.
Backdoor Bodega
One of the best bars in Penang is Backdoor Bodega – it’s a hidden speakeasy tucked behind a souvenir shop on Hin Bus Depot’s street. Known for its creative cocktails inspired by local ingredients and culture (think nutmeg negronis and torch ginger margaritas), it’s casual, cool, and always buzzing with a good crowd. Just ask for “chopsticks” at the counter to get in – that’s your ticket to the bar.
China House
China House is the OG of Penang’s café scene, a pioneer that brought art, live music, and café culture together under one roof long before it became trendy. Housed in a sprawling heritage building, it’s famous for its towering selection of cakes (over 30 daily!), rustic charm, and creative energy. Whether you're there for a long black, a slice of tiramisu, or to catch a local band, it’s a quintessential Penang experience.
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
A fun and educational stop just 5 minutes from Rasa Sayang! Great for families with kids — explore lush gardens filled with butterflies, insects, and other little creatures. Perfect for a mid-morning visit before heading to the beach.