Getting to Penang
Flights, ferries, buses, and drives - all the ways to reach the Pearl of the Orient
How do you get to Penang?
Fly into Penang International Airport (PEN) — direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (55 min), Singapore (1h 20min), and Bangkok (1h 45min). From KL, express buses take 4-5 hours (from RM 35) and the train-plus-ferry combination is a scenic budget option. Drive via Penang Bridge from the mainland for RM 8.50 toll.
By Air
Penang International Airport (PEN)
- •Direct flights from KL (55 min), Singapore (1h 20min), Bangkok (1h 45min)
- •Airlines: AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Scoot, Thai AirAsia
- •Airport is 16km south of George Town (20-30 min by Grab)
- •Grab from airport to George Town: RM 25-40
- •Airport bus (401E) to Komtar: RM 2.70
By Bus
From KL, Singapore, and Thai border
- •KL to Penang: 4-5 hours, from RM 35-60
- •Departures from TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) in KL
- •Arrives at Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal (south Penang)
- •Singapore to Penang: 8-9 hours, from RM 60-90
- •Operators: Plusliner, Transnasional, Aeroline (luxury)
By Ferry
Butterworth to George Town
- •Penang Ferry from Butterworth: 15 minutes
- •Runs every 20-30 minutes, 5:20am to midnight
- •Fare: RM 1.40 (pedestrian), free for return trip
- •Iconic experience - views of George Town waterfront
- •Connects to KTM train from KL at Butterworth station
By Car
Penang Bridge or Second Bridge
- •KL to Penang: 3.5-4 hours via PLUS highway (E1)
- •Hat Yai (Thailand) to Penang: 2.5–3 hours via Bukit Kayu Hitam / Sadao crossing — see the full driving guide
- •Penang Bridge toll: RM 8.50 (entering island only)
- •Second Penang Bridge (Sultan Abdul Halim): RM 8.50
- •Parking in George Town: RM 1-3/hour street parking
- •Consider using Grab in George Town - parking is limited
Driving from Thailand?
Over a million Thai visitors drive to Penang each year via the Hat Yai–Bukit Kayu Hitam route. The full guide covers both border crossings, toll costs, parking in George Town, and drive times from Hatyai, Pattani, and Yala. See the driving guide from Thailand →
How Do You Get Around Penang Once You Arrive?
Grab (Recommended)
The easiest way to get around. Rides within George Town typically RM 5-10. Download the app before arriving.
RapidPenang Bus
Public buses cover most of the island. Fare: RM 1.40-4.00. Free CAT bus loops around George Town heritage zone.
Motorbike Rental
RM 30-50/day. Great for exploring Balik Pulau and rural areas. International driving permit recommended.
Walking
George Town is walkable for street art, heritage sites, and food. Bring an umbrella — tropical rain is unpredictable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Penang from Kuala Lumpur?
The easiest option is a flight from KL to Penang International Airport (PEN) — 55 minutes on AirAsia or Malaysia Airlines, from RM 60-150. Alternatively, take an express bus from TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) for RM 35-60, which takes 4-5 hours. Train enthusiasts can take the KTM to Butterworth and then the iconic 15-minute Penang Ferry.
What is the cheapest way to get to Penang?
The cheapest options are the express bus (RM 35-60 from KL) and the KTM train + Penang Ferry combination. Budget flights on AirAsia can be cheaper when booked in advance. The Penang Ferry ride from Butterworth costs just RM 1.40 for pedestrians.
Which airlines fly to Penang International Airport?
Airlines serving Penang (PEN) include AirAsia (KL, Bangkok, Bali, Jakarta), Malaysia Airlines (KL, Singapore), Firefly (KL Subang, Kota Bharu), Scoot (Singapore), Thai AirAsia (Bangkok, Chiang Mai), and Batik Air. The airport is 16km south of George Town.
How much is the Penang Bridge toll?
The Penang Bridge toll is RM 8.50 entering the island (free for exit). The Second Penang Bridge (Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge) also charges RM 8.50. Both bridges connect Penang Island to the mainland. The Penang Bridge is 13.5km long — the one used in the PBIM marathon.
Is there a train directly to Penang?
There is no train directly onto Penang Island. The KTM train from KL goes to Butterworth station on the mainland (4-5 hours, from RM 20). From Butterworth, take the Penang Ferry (15 minutes, RM 1.40) to George Town. This train-ferry combination is scenic and budget-friendly.
How do I get from Penang Airport to my hotel?
Grab is the easiest option (RM 25-40, 25-40 minutes to George Town). The Rapid Penang 401E airport bus runs to Komtar every 30-60 minutes for RM 2.70. Many hotels offer paid airport transfers — check in advance. Fixed-rate airport taxis cost RM 45-60 to George Town using a coupon system at the terminal.