Reaching and Departing Penang

By Air
International and domestic flights depart from Bayan Lepas International Airport. Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airline and the budget airline Air Asia all operate from the Airport with routes to London, Singapore, Bangkok and Phuket.

By Sea
There is a 24 hour car and Passenger service to Butterworth on the Mainland and ferries to Medan in Indonesia and Langkawi

Express Bus
There is a 24 hour car and Passenger service to Butterworth on the Mainland and ferries to Medan in Indonesia and Langkawi

Getting Around Penang

Moving around the island is easy and inexpensive with public transporation. Most places are serviced by buses.

By Car

A valid car licence with a photo is required to rent a car. An international Driving Permit is not necessary. Cars are right-hand driven on the left side of the road. The use of seatbelts is compulsary in the front seats. Speed limit is 50 km/hour unless stated otherwise. Drivers should take note of a potential hazard in Penang: motorcyclists weaving in and out of the traffic.

The parking system heree consists of parking metres, tickets and coupons. Most office buildings and shopping complexes have car parks.

By Taxis

Most taxis do not use metres. Agree on a price before boarding. The fare for short distances within the city is between RM3 - RM6.

By Bus

A number of bus companies operate on the island. Make sure that you have enough small change as almost all buses use coin machines for collect fares. Fares are charged based on the distance. Mini buses charge a flat rate of 70 sen. The main pick-up points are Jeti (Pengkalan Weld/ ferry terminal) and Komtar.

Motorcycle & Bicycle

Motorcycles & bicycles can be rented at hotels and shops along Chulia Street and along hotel stretch of Batu Ferringhi.

Trishaw

This three-wheeled vehicle is unique to Penang, Melaka and Kota Bahru. A trishaw ride is one of the best ways to enjoy sights of Georgetown. As with taxis, agree on a price before boarding. They can also be hired by the hour (about RM15 per hour). Distance rates costs around RM1 per kilometre.