To travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, you can take a bus, fly, catch a train, or book a private car transfer with Daytrip. Daytrip’s private car service takes four hours door-to-door and offers sightseeing stops, making this the best overall option. The train or bus are the best choice if you’re on a budget, and take 4 to 5 hours to reach Penang. Flying takes as long as the train but is more hassle.
Can you catch a train from Kuala Lumpur to Penang?
Yes, you can catch a train from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. The KTM ETS (Electric Train Service) operates this route, connecting KL Sentral to Butterworth, Penang's nearest train station. The journey takes around four hours. From Butterworth, you can take a bus or short ferry ride across to Penang Island and then a taxi to your accommodation.
What are the driving conditions like between Kuala Lumpur and Penang?
The drive from Kuala Lumpur to Penang is largely on the North-South Expressway, one of Malaysia's main highways, which is well-maintained and straightforward to navigate. The journey of approximately 217 miles (350 km) takes around four hours under normal traffic conditions. Rest stops, petrol stations, and food outlets are plentiful along the route, making it a comfortable drive.
Why is Penang so famous?
Penang is famous for its Colonial history, rich, multicultural heritage, both of which have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then there’s the beautiful beaches, and some of the best food on the planet!
How far is KL to Penang by flight?
The flight distance from Kuala Lumpur to Penang is approximately 205 miles (330 km). Direct flights between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Penang International Airport last about an hour, but that doesn’t account for the 3 hours or so spent getting to and from the airport, or waiting for check-in and security.
Do they speak English in Penang?
Penang is a former British colony, so many of its 700,000 residents speak English. But it’s a melting pot of cultures, so you’ll hear plenty of other languages, including Malay, Tamil, and Chinese.
자주 묻는 질문
질문이 있으시면, 여기에 답변이 있습니다.
Daytrip은 전 세계 14,700+ 개 도시를 경험할 수 있는 가장 편리한 방법입니다.
모든 여행자는 자신이 방문하는 국가의 문화에 대한 진정한 통찰을 받을 자격이 있습니다. 그리고 지구상의 모든 놀라운 장소는 방문하고 감상할 가치가 있습니다. 우리는 독특한 현지 지식과 진정한 인간적 연결이 다른 문화를 진정으로 이해하는 데 있어 대체할 수 없다고 믿습니다.
Taking a car trip from Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur to Penang is quite a popular trip to take when visiting Malaysia, so buckle up for an amazing journey! The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Penang is around 217 miles (350 km) and traveling this route in the comfort of your private car will only take around four hours - not counting the enriching stops you'll want to make on the way.
As you head north from Kuala Lumpur, the skyscrapers and busy international atmosphere will start turning into a display of Malaysian hills and parks.
Stop by Taiping Lake Gardens to enjoy the greenery and tropical plants more. It is the first public park in the country, opened in 1880, and has been welcoming its visitors to walk through giant raintrees and Lotus Pool ever since.
Then go on to explore Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Climb up the seven-story Ban Po Thar, the tower that stands out as the highlight of the complex.
Right before you arrive in Penang, you’ll pass the Penang Bridge which is one of the longest bridges in Southeast Asia. Make sure to stop for a little to capture some moments of the sea and the Penang Island skyline.
About Penang
When traveling in Malaysia, taking a trip from Kuala Lumpur to Penang will be one of the most memorable parts of your journey. Penang is a fascinating fusion of East and West, tradition and modernity. It is located on the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia overlooking the Strait of Malacca. There's a reason it's known as the “Pearl of the Orient”.
The culture in Penang is one of a kind with its eclectic blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences. This cultural richness will be easily spottable on your walks around the streets. Walking through George Town's narrow lanes, you're treated to a living museum of British colonial buildings, traditional shophouses, and temples. The street art in this area is something to explore spontaneously, by letting yourself be surprised at each turn with striking murals telling stories of Penang’s past and present.
And believe us when we say Penang is legendary for its food---the days revolve here around meals. The delicious side of the state is considered among the best in Malaysia. From street food stalls to heritage eateries, the flavors of Penang Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and Nasi Kandar are a testament to the island's multicultural heritage.
After enjoying all that the city center has to offer, you’ll still have amazing natural surroundings to explore. Penang has tranquil beaches, such as Batu Ferringhi, and verdant parks, including Penang Hill and the Penang National Park, where you’ll enjoy cooler climates and explore diverse flora and fauna.
From Kuala Lumpur to Penang: travel tips
Traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Penang with Daytrip’s door-to-door car service you won’t need to worry about logistics as your private driver will handle everything. But to make sure the rest of your trip goes perfectly, here are some tips you can consider before you set out:
Pack light and right
The weather in Malaysia can be hot and humid. Make you pack lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle as essentials. Don’t forget a raincoat or umbrella for sudden showers. Check here to stay updated about the weather.
### Stay connected
Purchase a Malaysian SIM card for easy navigation and to stay connected with your accommodation and local attractions.
### Enjoy Malaysian cuisine on the way
There will be many restaurants and cafes waiting for you on your way to Penang. Stop by a few of them to explore the local cuisine. You Daytrip driver will be happy to recommend their favorite dish!
### Respect cultural norms
Malaysia is a multicultural country with a mix of ethnicities. The majority is Islamic, so dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites.
### Explore beyond George Town
Once you arrive in Penang, don’t limit your wandering to only George Town, although it is definitely a must-visit. Penang's charm also lies in its less-explored beaches and hills. Consider renting a scooter or car to discover more.
### Stay hydrated
The tropical climate can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoors.
How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang
There are several convenient ways to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, each with its own pros and cons. Take a look at this list to choose the best option for you.
Kuala Lumpur to Penang by bus
There are several bus services between Kuala Lumpur and Penang including Cosmic Express and Kejora Mashyur. Buses depart from various terminals in Kuala Lumpur, including Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), and the ride takes around four to five hours.
It is generally the most economical option, with tickets as low as $8 (RM35), and there are multiple departures daily. But keep in mind that you won’t be stopping to explore on the way, and will need to make your way from the bus station in Penang to your accommodation. Check the bus services here.
### Kuala Lumpur to Penang by train
The KTM ETS (Electric Train Service) connects KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (near Penang). From Butterworth, you can take a ferry or bus to Penang Island.
Traveling by train to Penang takes approximately four hours and costs as little as $6.40 (RM28). It is a more comfortable journey compared to traveling by bus, and many say it's the most scenic train ride in Malaysia.
### Kuala Lumpur to Penang by plane
It is possible to fly directly from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, Flights depart from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to Penang International Airport. Flight time is about one hour, but the 2 hours for check-in and security, plus travel time to and from the airport make it about the same speed as the train or a private car transfer, but much less comfortable.
### Kuala Lumpur to Penang by private car transfer
The easiest and most comfortable way to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang is a private car transfer with Daytrip. It's a door-to-door ride, so you'll be picked up wherever you want in Kuala Lumpur and dropped off at your accommodation in Penang. You don't even need to get to a station!
And unlike any other transportation option, you can stop to explore along the way (don't worry---your driver will wait with your luggage at each stop). And since Daytrip drivers speak English, you can get insights into local culture during your ride.
### Kuala Lumpur to Penang by rental car
Rent a car and drive yourself to Penang if you don’t mind driving in a foreign country, different traffic rules, and dealing with parking. The most common route is via the North-South Expressway (E1), covering about 217 miles (350 km).
Driving to Penang from Kuala Lumpur takes approximately four hours, depending on traffic conditions and the duration of your stops. It comes with the most flexibility for stops and exploration, but again, driving and parking here is not the easiest.
### Kuala Lumpur to Penang by ferry
There isn't a direct ferry from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, but if your accommodation is on Penang Island, across the Straits. Take a bus, train, or private car to Butterworth and then hop on a ferry to George Town from there. The best part is the ferry is only about $0.50 (RM2)!
Approaching Penang from the water is a fun experience, but definitely a lot of extra hassle as after you get to Penang Island, you still need to get from the ferry dock to your final destination.
Things to do when you get to Penang
Once you get to Penang from Kuala Lumpur, you'll find the island breeze, tropical greenery, and amazing street food waiting for you. It is not easy to have a day here where you feel like you have nothing to do. Even if you put a tick next to every point in your itinerary, there is always the beach and forests to completely relax and enjoy this different atmosphere. Take a look at our list to make sure not to miss the must-dos/sees.
### Explore the unique museums of Penang
Penang is a treasure trove if you are a culture enthusiast, with a rich array of museums. Start exploring with the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery which serves as a glimpse into the island's historical journey and diverse cultures. For a taste of something unique, go to the Wonderfood Museum which showcases Malaysia's food heritage through larger-than-life exhibits, perfect for fun photos.
Equally fascinating is the Penang Strait Museum, which is all about the maritime history and the cultural interactions across the Malacca Strait. It will help you understand the region's role in global trade.
### Wander the parks and aquariums
You will love Penang's parks and aquariums for a delightful escape. The Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is a magical world where butterflies roam free amidst tropical gardens. For a refreshing retreat, go for a hike in the Penang National Park which has hiking trails leading to secluded beaches and the Mermaid Pool. If swimming is not enough water for you, explore the underwater world in the Penang Aquarium, exhibiting a variety of marine life from the surrounding seas.
### Penang: the food capital
Have we already mentioned that Penang's food scene is legendary? Well, no matter how many times we stress it, it won’t do justice! George Town is often hailed as the food capital of Malaysia.
Beyond the famous street food stalls, local places like Tek Sen Restaurant offer a mix of traditional and modern dishes. For an intimate food adventure, try going to Kebaya Dining Room which combines classic Indo and Straits Chinese recipes with French cooking techniques.
When is the best time to visit Penang
Penang is best visited during its driest months, from December to February. This period has lots of sunny days with minimal rainfall which is ideal for exploring George Town and the stunning beaches and national parks.
The weather is comfortably warm, and the end of the year also coincides with several cultural celebrations and festivals, which is another good reason to visit during this period. The Chinese New Year, which usually falls in late January or early February, transforms the streets into a spectacle of celebration with traditional performances and festive markets.
가는 길에 이 명소들을 방문하세요
Batu Caves
This series of impressive cave temples is watched over by a giant golden statue of the Hindu god Lord Murugan. Lord of the Underworld
Genting Skyway
Enjoy jungle views and premium shopping via a modern gondola ride. Fly and Buy
Tempurung Cave
An immersive speleological experience awaits in one of the largest caves on the Malaysian peninsula. Down and Dirty
Ubudiah Royal Mosque
Glistening gold, gleaming white, and a grand scale make this royal mosque the finest in the country. Malaysia’s Most Magnificent Mosque
Taiping Lake Gardens
The first public gardens in Malaysia, this beautiful green space was once a tin mine. Going Green
Kek Lok Si Temple
Malaysia’s biggest Buddhist temple is a colorful complex with millions of images of Buddha, hundreds of carvings, and one huge statue. Big as Buddha
“우리는 Day Trip에서 받은 서비스의 품질에 매우 만족했습니다. 우리는 8월 31일 아테네에서 레프카다로, 9월 7일 레프카다에서 아테네로 돌아오는 두 번의 Day Trip을 이용했습니다. 두 여행 모두 그리스의 아름다운 명소에서의 정차가 포함되어 있었습니다. 두 운전사 모두 훌륭하고 친절했습니다. 그러나 특히 우리를 레프카다에서 아테네로 데려다준 기사 Panos Peppas를 언급하고 싶습니다. Panos는 믿을 수 없을 만큼 친절하고 유쾌했으며, 뛰어난 고객 서비스를 제공했습니다. 그 서비스에는 모든 짐을 처리해 주는 것, 여행 내내 차가운 물을 제공해 주는 것, 단백질 바를 제공해 주는 것, 코린트 운하(경유지 중 하나)에 대한 인쇄물을 제공해 주는 것, 귀국 항공편의 터미널 및 게이트 정보를 찾아 알려주는 것, 그리고 자지키 요리법을 알려주는 것이 포함되었습니다.”
“우리는 이 회사를 정말 사랑하며, 지난 몇 년 동안 여러 번 이용했습니다. 직접 렌터카를 빌리는 번거로움 없이 A에서 B로 이동할 수 있었습니다. 매번 훌륭한 운전사들, 효율적이고 전문적이었습니다. 그 값어치를 충분히 하며, 우리는 Day Trip을 모든 사람에게 진심으로 추천합니다. 그들의 5성 평가는 완전히 자격이 있습니다.”
“Daytrip의 Gonzalo는 우리의 운전사였고, 그는 정말 놀라웠습니다. 휴대폰 신호가 좋지 않아 우리가 어디 있는지 찾기 위해 많은 노력을 기울였습니다. 그는 우리가 로비에 도착할 때까지 인내심 있게 기다렸고, Tulum Dreams Resort에서 공항 근처에 있는 칸쿤의 다른 호텔까지 우리를 데려다주었습니다. 그곳은 집으로 돌아가기 전이었고, 한 시간 반 정도 거리였습니다. 그는 공손하고, 예의 바르며, 친절했습니다. 긴 여정 내내 우리가 편안하도록 신경 써 주었습니다. 빠르고 간결하게. Tulum에서 Cancún까지 편도 차량을 찾는 것은 쉽지도 저렴하지도 않은데, 이 회사는 훌륭한 가격에 훌륭한 서비스를 제공합니다. 앞으로 Cancún/Tulum 지역에 있을 때 꼭 다시 이용할 것입니다. 감사합니다, DayTrip과 Gonzalo.”
“마리안나는 우리를 픽업해서 헤라클리온에서 하니아까지 데려다주었습니다. 날씨가 매우 안 좋아서 그녀는 몇 분 늦었지만, 직접 연락해서 알려주었습니다. 마리안나는 하니아에 살고 있으며, 도중에 하니아에서 할 수 있는 활동들과 볼거리를 알려주며 우리의 여행을 더욱 흥미롭게 만들어 주었습니다. 그녀는 매우 안전하게 운전했고, 비가 많이 오는 상황에서도 저희는 그녀의 운전 속도와 실력에 안심할 수 있었습니다. 그녀는 사랑스러운 사람이고 영어도 유창하게 합니다. 우리는 Daytrip을 적극 추천하며, 헤라클리온이나 하니아에 계신다면 꼭 마리안나를 요청해 보세요.”
“Alan L drove us to Penang last week and then drove us from Penang back to KL today. Both drives were excellent experiences as Alan was a safe and very calm driver. The drive from Penang took close to 9.5 hours due to Lunar New Year traffic but despite it being a gruelling drive Alan was sure to take care of me and my family with breaks and was amazingly patient and composed on the road in the face of some very unfortunate driving conditions. His car (8 seater) was immaculate and comfortable and he was a very kind host. I would recommend daytrip and Alan to anyone else”
“Tout c'est très bien passé, Daytrip nous a fourni une photo du chauffeur et le type de véhicule qui est venu nous prendre à la réception de notre hôtel à l'heure convenue par avance.Le conducteur était prudent, parlait bien anglais et nous a donné des renseignements sur l'histoire, la géographie des lieux traversés en cours de route. Bref un voyage agréable pour un prix équivalent à ce que les taxis et vol par avion nous auraient coûté et pour un temps et des tracasserie bien moindre. Je recommande sans problème cette solution de transport en Malaisie..”
“We made a tour from Penang Island to Kuala Lumpur, and it was amazing! Alan (our driver) was very nice, friendly and funny, spoke good English and the ride was quick and efficient. I would recommend this way of traveling to anyone. The price was more then fair and we could stop and eat whenever we wanted. Really cool way to go around!”
Tripadvisor 여행자 Sjoerd02 의 리뷰
알아두면 좋은 정보
어린이
어린이와 함께 여행하시는 경우, 예약 시 알려주시면 적절한 어린이 좌석을 준비하겠습니다!
반려동물
애완동물은 허용됩니다(그리고 사랑받습니다)! 미리 알려주시면 됩니다. 예약의 다음 단계에서 애완동물에 대해 알려주실 수 있습니다.
팁
팁은 포함되지 않으며 필수도 아니지만, 여행을 정말 즐기셨다면 선택적으로 팁(10% 정도)을 주셔서 운전기사에게 감사의 마음을 표현할 수 있습니다.
수하물
대형 수하물
29x21x11 인치
74x53x28 cm
소형 수하물
22x14x9 인치
56x36x23 cm
각 승객은 위탁 수하물 1개와 기내 수하물 1개를 소지할 수 있습니다. 더 많은 가방이나 초과 수하물을 가지고 여행하는 경우 예약 시 이를 조정할 수 있습니다.
결제 방법
온라인으로 신용카드로 결제하거나, 운전자에게 직접 현금으로 결제하세요!
Daytrip은 현지 운전 기사분과 연결하여 한 도시에서 다른 도시로 문 앞에서 문 앞까지 이동할 수 있도록 도와주는 플랫폼입니다. 이동 중에 관광명소나 명소를 탐험할 기회도 제공합니다. 우리는 운전하고, 당신은 발견합니다.
모든 Daytrip 예약은 편도입니다. 다른 날짜에 왕복 여행이 필요한 경우, 별도의 편도 여행으로 예약하십시오. 당일치기 여행의 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 하실 수 있습니다. 몇 시간 이상 머무를 계획이라면, 운전 기사 대기 비용을 지불하지 않기 위해 두 개의 편도 여행을 예약하는 것을 권장합니다.
Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불을 받을 수 있습니다. Daytrip Pool 공유 셔틀의 경우, 예약 시 세 가지 옵션을 제공합니다: 환불 불가능한 Non-refundable 옵션, 출발 24시간 전까지 취소 가능한 flexible 옵션, 출발 15분 전까지 취소 가능한 Super-flexible 옵션. Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 예약 취소는 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불되지만, 성수기에는 36시간 이내에 요청된 변경 사항은 운전기사의 일정에 따라 달라질 수 있습니다.
홈페이지에서 출발지와 도착지를 선택하고 출발 날짜와 시간을 입력하세요. 화면에 제공된 예약 지침에 따라 경유지 관광지를 검색하고 추가하세요. 간단하고 쉬우며 재미있게 다음 모험을 예약할 수 있습니다! 원하는 경로가 웹사이트에 없을 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 할 수도 있습니다. 정확한 승차 또는 하차 주소를 모르는 경우에도 예약할 수 있으며, 나중에 주소들를 추가 및 수정할 수 있습니다!
각 승객분은 큰 가방 1개(29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm)와 작은 가방 1개(22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm)를 허용합니다. 고급 세단은 큰 가방 2개만 수용할 수 있습니다. 항상 귀하와 수하물에 가장 적합한 차량을 보내드리므로 예약 시 실제 여행 수하물의 양을 선택하십시오. 특대 수하물이 있거나 수하물이 적합할지 확신이 서지 않는 경우, 연락처로 문의해 주세요.
미국을 제외한 모든 지역에서는 운전자가 적절한 어린이용 카시트를 제공합니다(예약 시 알려주시면 됩니다). 미국의 경우, 일부 주에서는 고객이 직접 어린이용 카시트를 준비해야 합니다.
