A layover in Penang is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Penang International Airport sits just 100 minutes from the city center by Rapid Penang Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of PEN:
- Can you legally enter Malaysia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by Rapid Penang Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MYR. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
The Best Way Into Penang from PEN
The most straightforward way into Penang is the Rapid Penang Bus, which takes about 100 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 120 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Rapid Penang Bus is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Penang Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Penang, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Penang.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at PEN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Penang’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Exploring Penang on a Layover
If you head into Penang, here are two things worth checking out:
Georgetown Street Art Exploration is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Chew Jetty is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside PEN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Plaza Premium Lounge
- Penang International Airport Duty-Free
Eating Well on a Penang Layover
In Penang
If you make it into town, Tek Sen Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try 888 Hokkien Mee (Presgrave Street).
Inside PEN
If you’re staying in the terminal, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is your main option. Marrybrown works too if you want something quick.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at PEN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Malaysia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PEN should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Malaysia and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Penang with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Penang may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.