Getting There & Moving Around
By Air
Penang is easily accessible by air with daily flights from major capitals of the region. Most flights from Europe and the U.S. connect through Kuala Lumpur with onward flights around every 40 mins to Penang. Penang has direct links with Singapore, Bangkok, Hadyai, Nagoya, Phuket, Medan, Xiamen(China) and Madras, operated by Malaysia Airlines. The airline operates about 24 daily flights between Kuala Lumpur and Penang, flight time is approximately 50 minuites.
The Bayan Lepas International Airport is about 20km from the city center. Taxis plying the route follow the coupon system by which fares between the airport and various destinations in Penang are fixed. Passengers pay the fare at the taxi booth in exchange for the coupon which they then produce to the driver. Air-conditioned taxis and limousines charge slightly higher fares.
By Road
The opening of the Penang Bridge linking the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia to Penang Island has facilitated driving to Penang. A charge of RM7.00 is levied on all classes of cars at the toll plaza in Perai on the mainland. No payment is required for travelling from the island to the mainland.
By Ferry
From Butterworth, it is necessary to take the ferry to Penang Island. The ferry service is available around the clock for both passengers and vehicles. Tickets are purchased at the Butterworth terminal and the rates are applicable for a return journey, Fares: Adult - RM0.40- Children - RM0.20
The rates charged for vehicles are based on the engine capacity of the car and the number of passengers. Cars below 1200c.c - RM4.00 + 0.40 sen/per passenger. Cars above 1200c.c - RM5.00 + 0.40 sen/per passenger.
By Rail
The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth takes approximately 6 hours. First and second class passengers travel in comfort in the air-conditioned coaches. Taking the train is a comfortable way to travel within the country and it affords one the opportunity to see a lot of the countryside. Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad also operates regular services to Alor Setar, Padang Besar, Hadyai and Bangkok in the North from Butterworth.
Moving Around
Penang's public transport system is efficient and moving around by taxis, buses or trishaws may be a fun and inexpensive way of catching the sights.
City Taxis
Most city taxis do not generally use the meter. You should always agree on the price before you move off. Taxis normally charge about RM 8.00 for short distances within the city. We can recommend Limousine Van Services who from personal expeience offer probably the most competative rate for Mini van service on the Island, he can carry 8 to 9 persons in his late model air conditioned people carrier, great for tours and airport pick ups / drop offs. Call Mr Mun on 012-562 3822 for a no quibble quote, you'll be pleasantly surprised at his low rates. or e-mail us or submit an online enquiry form with your advance requirements and we'll respond back by e-mail.
Airport Bus
The Penang Yellow Bus Co. operates an hourly service between the Airport and Pengkalan Weld in the city between 6.00am to 10.00pm daily (Bus No. 83)
City Buses
Penang is also served by many buses which ply various routes between the city and other destinations on the island. The City buses operate from the main terminal at Lebuh Victoria, at frequent intervals.
The following buses cover various destinations in the city: (Kenderaan Juara Sdn. Bhd.)
1. Air ltam
2. Bagan Jermal
3. Jelutong
4. Jalan Yeap Chor Ee via Jalan Perak
5. Jalan Masjid Negeri via Dhoby Ghaut
6. Jalan Masdid Negeri via Jalan Patani 7. Jalan Kebun Bunga
8. Penang Hill Bailway
9. Jalan Masjid Negeri via Jalan Penang Jalan Dato Keramat
10. Kampung Melayu
11. Bukit Gelugor via Jalan Masjid Negeri
12. Jelutong to Air ltam Village
Trishaw
A trishaw ride is one of the best ways of seeing Penang. Besides the novelty of traveling on this open-fronted three-wheeled vehicle, trishaws allow visitors the opportunity of doing the sights at a more leisurely pace stopping at any point to snap pictures or buy souvenirs.
There is no standard fare and it would be wise to agree on the it price before you step on a trishaw. For extended sightseeing, it is advisable to hire them by the hour.
Car Rental
If you wish to venture further afield at your own leisure, it might be a good idea to drive around yourself Most major international and local car rental companies offer a good choice of vehicles and packages So, arm yourself with a valid international driving license and a reliable road map and set forth for the adventure of your life. Remember that traffic travels on the left side of the road and that the speed limit varies on all roads.
We can arrange car hire at extremely competative rates. for example mini cars strat at RM 100 per day / RM1100 per month. Click here to see a full list of vehicles and hire prices
Rent-A-Bike/Bicycle
Bicycles and motorcycles also offer inexpensive and fun ways of exploring the island. Stores along the hotel stretch of Batu Ferringhi and in the city offer them for hire.
For some of the most inexpensive Flights and Hotel deals around click here to check online prices and bookings.
Click to Email: enquiries@penang-malaysia.com

