Getting Around in Penang: Transport Guide for Buses, Grab & More

Hey there, fellow explorer! 👋 I just got back from a short trip to Penang, and let me tell you — while the food was everything I dreamed of (hello, char koay teow and nasi kandar 😋), figuring out the best way to get around took a bit of trial and error.

Coming from KL, I’m so used to zipping around on the MRT or hopping into a Grab within minutes. So when I first landed in Penang, I was curious: Is Penang’s transport as efficient? Is it tourist-friendly?

Short answer: It’s different — slightly slower-paced, but honestly quite charming once you settle in. Don’t expect the sleek speed of the Singapore MRT, but do expect scenic rides, super walkable heritage streets, and a more laid-back rhythm of travel. 🏖️

What I quickly discovered is that getting around Penang has its own vibe:

• 🚶‍♀️ You’ll find yourself walking a lot through charming lanes in George Town
• 🚌 There’s a decent (and free!) CAT bus service around town
• 🚕 Grabs are everywhere and affordable
• 🚲 Some areas are surprisingly nice for cycling
• 🚇 And okay—no metro here, but that's part of the chill Penang style

Here’s everything you need to know about getting around in Penang — whether you’re commuting, exploring, or just trying to find your next bowl of something delicious. 🍜🗺️

🚈 Getting Around with the Train in Penang

🗺️ System Overview: KTM Komuter & Penang Hill Railway

KTM Komuter Northern Line

This is the regional train that connects Butterworth (mainland Penang) to other northern cities like Bukit Mertajam, Parit Buntar, and Padang Besar (Thailand border). Handy if you're venturing outside George Town or coming up from KL.

Penang Hill Railway

This is a tourist-focused funicular train that takes you from the base station in Air Itam straight up to the cool, breezy Penang Hill. It’s one of Penang’s most iconic experiences. 🌄🚠

👉 No MRT or full metro system yet in Penang Island itself — but local buses (Rapid Penang) do fill in the gap for now.

📍 Key Tourist Stops by Train

• Butterworth KTM Station 🚉
  Connection point if you're arriving via ETS (KTM electric train) from Kuala Lumpur or other parts of Malaysia.
• Air Itam (Penang Hill Railway base) 🌿
  Gateway to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple — great for scenic views and temple hopping!
• Bukit Mertajam KTM Station 🛕
  Near cultural and heritage spots on the mainland side.
• Padang Besar (Thai Border) 🇲🇾🇹🇭
  Great for a day trip or quick border hop!

Tip: From Butterworth, there’s a ferry to George Town—scenic and fun! ⛴️

💳 Tickets, Cards, and How to Pay

KTM Komuter & ETS

Buy tickets online via KTM website or over the counter at stations. Touch 'n Go cards are also accepted.

✅ No need to queue if you use Touch 'n Go – just tap in and out!

Penang Hill Railway

You can buy tickets online (recommended, especially during weekends/school holidays!) or at the ticket counter.

🎫 Standard return fare for Malaysians: RM12 adults, RM6 children. There’s a fast lane option (Express Lane) if you want to skip the crowd.

🕒 Operating Hours & Frequency

KTM Komuter

• First train: Around 5:30am
• Last train: Around 10:30pm
• Frequency: Every 30–60 mins depending on the station

Penang Hill Railway

• First train: 6:30am
• Last train: 10:30pm
• Frequency: Every 15–30 mins (or faster during peak times)

✅ Pros & Ideal Users

KTM Komuter:

Great for those coming from KL via ETS or planning to explore northern Malaysia. Clean, air-conditioned, but less frequent than MRT.

✅ Solo travellers, backpackers, or day-trippers to/from the mainland.

Penang Hill Railway:

Perfect for families, photographers, or anyone escaping the heat. The views are stunning, and the ride is fun for kids too! 🌤️

Compared to Singapore MRT: Less frequent, more scenic, and more tourist-oriented. But the Penang Hill ride is worth it just for the Instagram shots alone 📸😉

⚠️ Tips & Watch-Outs

• KTM signage is in Malay and English, so no major issue for Singaporean travellers.
• No mobile signal during parts of the hill ride — so download your Insta stories later!
• Penang Hill can get super crowded on weekends and public holidays — book early or go early morning.
• Komuter frequency isn’t as tight as MRT, so check the train schedule ahead of time.

🚌 Buses & Airport Shuttles in Penang

🚌 Local Bus System Overview: Rapid Penang

Penang’s public bus service is run by Rapid Penang, and it covers most of Penang Island and parts of Seberang Perai (mainland side). Buses are used by both locals and budget-savvy travellers, especially students and those without cars.

You’ll see buses heading to:

• George Town 🏙️
• Batu Ferringhi 🏖️
• Penang Hill (via Air Itam) 🌄
• Queensbay Mall 🛍️
• Balik Pulau 🍜

📍When & Where to Use the Bus

Use the bus if:

• You want to visit Penang Hill or Kek Lok Si Temple (Route 203 or 204)
• You're heading to Batu Ferringhi beach and prefer not to pay for Grab
• You want a low-cost ride from George Town to the airport
• You're exploring George Town's heritage area, but don’t want to walk in the heat

🚍 Free CAT Shuttle

There’s also a free city shuttle called CAT (Central Area Transit) that loops around George Town’s heritage zone — great for first-timers who want to get their bearings. Look for the bright blue buses!

💳 How to Pay & Ride

• Pay on board (cash only — and exact change is preferred)
• Or use a Touch 'n Go card (just tap once when boarding)
• Board from the front door, and exit through the rear
• No tap-out needed unless you're using Touch 'n Go

🎫 Fares typically range from RM1 to RM4 depending on distance — very budget-friendly compared to taxis or Grab.

🕒 Timings & Frequency

• Buses usually run from 6:00am to 11:00pm
• Every 15–30 minutes on main routes during peak hours
• Some routes have limited evening or weekend service, so plan ahead if you're going somewhere further out

✈️ Penang Airport Shuttle & Bus Options

If you're flying in via Penang International Airport (PEN), you've got a few options:

1. Rapid Penang Bus (Route 102)

• Goes from the airport to Batu Ferringhi, passing through Bayan Lepas, Queensbay Mall, and Komtar
• 🕒 Runs roughly every 30 minutes
• 💰 Around RM2–RM3 depending on where you stop

2. Grab or Trip.com Airport Transfer

• Faster and more convenient, especially with big luggage or kids
• 💰 RM25–RM45 to George Town depending on traffic
• Book ahead via Trip.com if you want a private car waiting for you (super helpful for red-eye flights!)

✅ Who Should Take the Bus?

🧳 Budget travellers: Cheapest way to get around
🌴 Slow explorers: Soak in the views along coastal routes
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families: Use the CAT shuttle in George Town (it’s free and easy!)
🧕 Locals and students: Use it daily — safe, simple, and affordable

⚠️ Watch-Outs & Local Tips

• Bus stops are not always obvious — look out for small blue signs or ask locals
• Use Google Maps or Moovit app to track routes and timings
• Some buses have no air-con or weak Wi-Fi, so bring water and plan ahead
• Avoid peak heat hours (12–2pm) if walking between stops

🚕 Taxis & Ride-Hailing in Penang

If you're visiting Penang and prefer the comfort of private transport (especially when travelling with kids or luggage), taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are your best friends. While public transport is affordable, it's not always the most direct — so a ride-hailing app can save time and hassle, especially in Penang’s heat! ☀️🧳

📱 Popular Ride-Hailing Apps in Penang

🚗 Grab – The go-to app for Malaysians

• • Works across Penang and throughout Malaysia
  • Available on App Store and Google Play
  • Features: upfront pricing, cashless payment, driver ratings, and language in English
  • Supports GrabPay and credit/debit cards

💡 Pro tip: Set your pickup point accurately — Penang’s small lanes can be confusing for drivers!

💸 Fare Estimates & How to Pay

Grab gives you an upfront price, so there are no surprises:

• George Town ➡️ Penang Hill: ~RM10–RM15
• George Town ➡️ Batu Ferringhi: ~RM20–RM30
• George Town ➡️ Penang Airport: ~RM25–RM45 (depending on time and traffic)

✅ No need to tip, and you can pay via:

• GrabPay Wallet
• Credit/debit card
• Cash (if selected in app)

🚨 Night surcharges may apply after 11pm or during public holidays, but these are shown in the app.

🛬 Airport Pickup Info

When you land at Penang International Airport (PEN):

• Grab pickup zone is clearly marked outside the arrival hall 🚘
• Official airport taxis are available, but have fixed rates (often higher than Grab)
• Airport taxi fares to George Town: around RM45–RM60, depending on destination

✅ Best For These Travellers

🚗 Grab or taxi is ideal if you’re:

• Travelling with kids, seniors, or big luggage
• Arriving late at night or during rain
• Staying in areas not covered well by buses
• Planning to do a multi-stop food crawl without the hassle of parking

⚠️ Things to Watch Out For

• 🚕 Avoid flagging down taxis unless absolutely necessary — they may overcharge or avoid using meters
• 🚫 Decline rides from touts at the airport or major tourist spots (“special price, no meter” – just say no!)
• 📱 During peak hours, rain, or big events, Grab cars may be scarce or take longer to arrive
• Double-check your pickup pin to avoid waiting at the wrong exit

💡 If you're ever unsure, hotel concierges are happy to help book a Grab or call a trusted driver for you.

🚶 Exploring Penang on Foot

🚶 Is Penang Walkable?

Yes — Penang is very walkable, especially if you’re staying in or near George Town. Most of the major attractions, cafés, museums, and famous food stalls are clustered within walking distance of each other. You can easily spend an entire day just exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Zone on foot — and not get bored.

Other walkable areas include:

• Armenian Street & Lebuh Cannon – Murals, souvenir shops & trishaws 🎨🚴
• Esplanade & waterfront area – Seaviews, colonial buildings & sunset strolls 🌅
• Chulia Street Nightlife area – Food stalls, bars & backpacker vibes 🍜🍻

🗺️ Maps, Signage & Safety

• Google Maps works well — though don’t trust it 100% for small alleys or hidden cafés
• Street signs are usually in Malay and English, especially in George Town
• Safe to walk alone during the day and early evening — just avoid isolated back lanes late at night

Pro tip: Many streets have QR codes on signposts that you can scan to learn about the area’s history!

🌤️ Walking Weather in Penang

Let’s be real: Penang gets HOT and humid, especially between 11am–3pm. 🌞
Bring water, wear breathable clothes, and use sunscreen or an umbrella (even locals do this).

Best time to walk:

• Morning (7–10am) for cooler temps
• Evening (5–7pm) for golden light and night market vibes

📸 Scenic Walks & Hidden Gems

• Street Art Trail 🎨: Start from Armenian Street, hunt for the famous murals (e.g. "Kids on Bicycle"), and end at Chew Jetty with a coconut in hand
• Penang Esplanade 🌊: Walk along the waterfront and colonial buildings — peaceful and scenic, especially at sunset
• Hin Bus Depot 🧑‍🎨: A cool artsy stop with murals, food stalls, and craft markets on weekends

Every few steps, you’ll probably find yourself stopping to snap a photo or smell something delicious!

✅ Who Will Enjoy Exploring on Foot?

• Solo travellers: Soak in the atmosphere and explore at your own pace
• Couples: Great for romantic strolls and spontaneous food stops
• Photo-lovers: Murals, lanterns, old shophouses — your IG feed will thank you
• Those staying in George Town: Everything is right at your doorstep!

If you're wondering where to base yourself, check out our guide on where to stay in Penang for the most walkable neighborhoods.

⚠️ Things to Watch Out For

• Narrow sidewalks along busy roads like Jalan Burma
• Some alleys flood easily during heavy rain
• Construction works or shop extensions occasionally block footpaths
• Limited shade — carry a hat or umbrella during mid-day walks!

🛺 Local Charm on Wheels: Trishaws in Penang

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to cruise through colonial streets in a rainbow-coloured, pedal-powered ride, then you have to try a Penang trishaw (locally known as "beca"). It’s not just a mode of transport — it’s a moving postcard, and honestly, part of the Penang experience you don’t want to skip. 🎨🚲

🚋 What It Is & Where to Find It

A trishaw is a three-wheeled bicycle taxi where you sit in front, shaded by a colourful canopy while the friendly uncle pedals behind you. Think of it as Penang’s answer to the tuk-tuk — but slower, more relaxed, and much quieter (no revving engines, just the occasional bell ding! 🔔).

🧭 You’ll spot trishaws mostly in:

• George Town’s heritage zone (around Armenian Street, Lebuh Chulia, Love Lane)
• Near Fort Cornwallis, Khoo Kongsi, and Komtar
• Outside major hotels and tourist hotspots

They're hard to miss — many are decorated with fake flowers, LED lights, and even mini fans!

💰 Cost & How to Ride

Trishaw fares aren't metered — it’s all negotiable, so you’ll need to flex those bargaining muscles a little 💪:

• 💸 Short ride (10–15 mins): RM20–RM30
• 💸 Hourly rate: RM40–RM60 (includes waiting time and stops for photos)

Some drivers offer guided rides and can point out hidden murals or food spots. You can:

• Hail one on the street
• Ask your hotel concierge to arrange
• Or simply wave and ask for the rate — they’re used to tourists!

📝 Tip: Always agree on a price before you hop in.

🎯 When It’s Worth Trying

• Perfect for a lazy afternoon ride around George Town’s narrow alleys
• Great after a big lunch — let someone else do the pedaling while you digest 😅
• Ideal for sunset or evening rides when the streets are cooler and trishaws light up with blinking LEDs ✨
• Fun option if you’re short on time but still want to soak in the city’s vibe

It’s not the fastest way to get around, but it’s definitely the most Penang.

⚠️ Things to Watch Out For

• Some drivers may quote high prices to tourists — politely negotiate or ask your hotel what’s fair
• Not ideal in rainy weather or midday heat 🥵
• Most trishaws have no seatbelts and are open — hang on to your phone and bags when crossing busy junctions!
• Trishaws don’t go far — better for short loops around the heritage zone, not for airport runs or Batu Ferringhi

✅ Who It’s Great For

• 🧳 Culture seekers and first-time Penang visitors
• 📸 IG-lovers — the trishaws are super photogenic
• 🧕 Elderly travellers who want to explore without too much walking
• 👫 Couples — it’s charming, slow-paced, and romantic at night

🚫 Not ideal if you’ve got large luggage, restless toddlers, or are in a rush.

📸 Fun & Cultural Notes

Expect to hear:

• The soft creak of the pedals
• The hum of Penang street life — sizzling char koay teow, honking bikes, and multilingual chatter
• The occasional joke from your trishaw uncle — many love sharing stories!

You’ll get to see Penang from a different angle — low to the ground, no windows, and full sensory experience. It's the kind of ride that lets you feel the heartbeat of the city.

🚤 Water Transport in Penang

⛴️ What’s Available: Penang Ferry & Private Boat Charters

Penang’s main water transport is the Penang Ferry, Malaysia’s oldest ferry service, now modernized and operated by Penang Port Sdn Bhd. It connects Butterworth (mainland) to George Town (island) and is used by both locals and curious travellers looking for a scenic shortcut.

There are also private boat tours or charters available along the Penang coast — often part of island-hopping or sunset cruise packages (especially around Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang).

🗺️ Where It Goes

The Penang Ferry runs between:

• Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal (Butterworth)
• Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal (George Town)

⛴️ This short 15–20 minute ride gives you lovely views of:

• George Town’s skyline
• Port activities
• Local fishing boats cruising past

You can easily connect from the KTM Komuter or ETS trains at Butterworth Station, which is a short walk to the ferry terminal. Perfect if you're arriving from KL by train and want to head straight into the heart of George Town without a Grab ride!

💸 Tickets & How to Ride

• 🎫 Fare: RM2 per person (one-way, as of 2025)
• Children under 6 ride free
• You can buy tickets at the terminal, and there’s Touch 'n Go support for convenience
• Tickets are usually easy to get, and there’s English signage and staff at both ends

No long queues unless it’s a public holiday or school break, and the ferry departs on a first-come, first-serve basis.

🕒 Timings & Frequency

• Operating Hours: 6:30am – 10:00pm daily
• Ferries run about every 30–45 minutes
• There’s no hop-on-hop-off boat service yet in Penang, but private tours can be arranged through local agencies or your hotel

🎯 Who It’s Best For

• First-time visitors to Penang who want to arrive in style from the mainland 🚢
• Families with kids – fun, safe, and just the right duration
• Romantic couples – especially in the evening with golden-hour light 🌅
• Budget travelers – cheaper than a Grab, and more memorable!

The ferry gives you a different perspective of the island, and the breeze is a lovely escape from Penang’s midday heat. It’s also a fun, non-touristy way to feel like part of daily life.

⚠️ Watch-Outs & Considerations

• Older travellers or those with mobility issues should note: boarding ramps can get steep, especially during low tide
• There’s minimal shelter on the open deck, so bring an umbrella or hat ☀️
• Be prepared for occasional delays during rough weather or maintenance hours
• No reserved seating — just grab a bench and enjoy the ride

📸 Local Flavour: Boats, Views & Life on the Water

Don’t miss:

• Locals commuting with shopping bags or motorcycles
• Fishermen hauling nets in the distance
• The stunning approach into George Town with its colonial buildings and mosque minarets appearing as you draw closer 🕌🌇
• Feeding seagulls that sometimes follow the ferry (a favourite with kids!)

And if you're lucky, you might catch a sunset crossing — when the skyline turns orange and the water reflects the fading light. It’s genuinely beautiful.

🛵 Micro-Mobility in Penang

🛵 What’s Available: GrabBike, E-Scooters & Bike Rentals

GrabBike (Motorbike Taxi)

While not as common as in Thailand or Vietnam, GrabBike sometimes appears in Penang, mainly in more urban areas like George Town or Bayan Lepas. Availability can be limited, though — so don’t count on it during peak hours or late nights.

E-Scooters (Occasional Rentals)

source from https://www.viator.com/tours

You might spot a few dockless e-scooters or shared bikes in tourist areas like Esplanade, Gurney Drive, or Hin Bus Depot — but these services tend to come and go. No major operator like Lime or Beam is active long-term yet.

Bicycle Rentals

A more reliable option — many guesthouses and hotels in George Town offer bike rentals for RM10–RM25/day. Great for mural-hunting or café-hopping!

📍 Where to Find Them

• GrabBike: Through the Grab app (same as your Singapore version!) — just switch the ride type
• E-scooters: Randomly parked near malls, parks, or promenades when active (rare)
• Bikes: Guesthouses, hostels, and some cafés offer rentals on the spot 🚲

No dedicated scooter lanes or micro-mobility hubs yet — so always ride defensively.

📲 How to Use

GrabBike:

1. Open the Grab app, select Bike under Transport
2. Input pickup and drop-off points
3. Fare is calculated automatically (usually RM5–RM15 depending on distance)
4. Pay via GrabPay, card, or cash

E-Scooters (if available):

1. Scan QR code via app (if one is provided — often requires local SIM or Malaysian phone number)
2. Pay per minute — around RM0.50–RM1/minute

Tip: Most tourists just go for bicycles, which are easy to rent and no app is needed!

🛡️ Safety Tips

• Helmets: GrabBike usually provides one — use it, even for short trips!
• Hold on tight: Especially during turns or uphill climbs. Use the side handles or grab bar if available
• Dress comfortably: Avoid loose bags or long skirts that can get caught in the wheels
• Traffic in Penang can be unpredictable, especially in narrow George Town alleys — stay alert and ride slow

✅ Ideal For:

• Solo travelers looking to hop between attractions
• Anyone trying to beat traffic in peak hours
• Short trips in areas not well-served by buses
• Explorers looking for a bit of a thrill (but not too extreme)

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• 🚦 Rush hour traffic can get crazy — even motorbikes might get stuck
• 🌧️ Not ideal during rain or if roads are flooded
• 🧳 Not suitable if you’re carrying luggage or traveling in a group
• 🛡️ Insurance coverage is limited, especially for non-residents — ride at your own risk
• 📱 App availability may vary based on SIM card or account region

🚗 Renting a Car & Driving in Penang

🚘 When It Makes Sense to Drive

Driving is practical if:

• You’re planning a road trip around Penang Island (like to Balik Pulau, Teluk Bahang, or Penang National Park)
• You're travelling with young kids or seniors and want door-to-door convenience
• Your hotel is outside George Town or in quieter suburbs like Batu Ferringhi
• You’re combining Penang with a longer road trip up to Langkawi, Kedah, or Perlis

🚫 Not recommended if:

• You're staying within George Town and plan to explore mainly on foot
• You're not confident with tight parking, motorcyclists weaving through traffic, or roundabouts with loose lane discipline

📍 Where to Rent a Car

You can rent a car easily at:

• Penang International Airport (PEN) – most major rental brands available
• George Town – local operators with city outlets
• Online – for the best rates and options, use:
  👉 Compare car rentals in Penang on Trip.com

Pro tip: Book ahead during school holidays and long weekends — availability drops fast!

📄 Requirements for Tourists

To drive in Malaysia as a foreigner, you’ll need:

• A valid Singapore driving licence (accepted for short visits)
• Or an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence isn’t in English
• Minimum age: 23–25, depending on provider
• Passport + credit card for security deposit
• Local insurance is usually included, but double-check collision and theft coverage

💸 Cost Overview

• Daily rental: RM100–RM200/day for a compact car
• Deposit: RM200–RM500, refundable
• Fuel: Usually full-to-full policy
• Add-ons: Child seat (RM10–RM20), GPS (though Google Maps is fine), second driver surcharge

🚧 Additional costs to note:

• Tolls (use a Touch ‘n Go card — same one for parking and buses)
• City parking: RM0.40–RM1/hour in George Town, but street parking is limited
• No congestion charges, but expect traffic jams during rush hour or weekends near tourist hotspots

🛣️ Driving Conditions & Culture

• Penang drives on the left-hand side, just like Singapore
• Most signs are in Malay + English — pretty straightforward
• Google Maps or Waze works well here
• Locals tend to swerve a little freely, and motorbikes pop out of nowhere, so stay alert
• In George Town: expect narrow lanes, one-way roads, and limited parking

Outside the city, roads are more open and scenic — especially around the northwest coast and Balik Pulau’s countryside 🌴🚗

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• Tight turns and no-parking zones in George Town
• Double-parked vehicles blocking lanes — it happens!
• Rainy season may cause slippery roads and limited visibility
• Night driving in kampung or hill areas can be dimly lit — plan ahead if you're not used to it

✅ Ideal For:

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families who want flexibility and comfort
• 🧳 Business travelers or those with tight schedules
• 🚗 Couples or groups doing day trips around the island
• 🗺️ Explorers heading to Penang National Park, Bukit Genting, or beyond

📝Getting Around Penang Like a Pro

Getting around Penang is part of the fun — whether you’re cruising in a Grab, hopping on a ferry, or just wandering through George Town’s mural-filled alleys. Sure, the roads can get a bit jammed and signage isn’t always perfect, but that’s all part of Penang’s laid-back, colourful charm. 🚦🌞

The best way to explore? Mix it up! Use buses for budget travel, trishaws for the vibe, and Grab for those humid afternoons. Having mobile data (get an eSIM for Malaysia) makes everything smoother — from tracking buses to booking a ride on the fly.

Ready to plan more? Check out:

• Flight to Penang
• Things to do in Penang
• Rent a Car in Penang
• Book a Malaysia eSIM

Happy exploring! 🧳✨