How to Get to Penang and Leave the Island: Flights, Ferries, Buses and Trains
Getting to and leaving Penang Island: ferry, plane, bus, van or train… everything you need to know about transport options, prices and routes to discover one of Malaysia’s most distinctive destinations.
Penang, one of Malaysia’s most fascinating islands
Penang continues to attract travellers looking for culture, food and heritage. The island — and especially its capital George Town — blends colonial history, Chinese shophouses, Indian districts and modern urban life in a unique way.
Over the years, Penang has also become famous for its urban creativity and vibrant street art, now part of the city’s identity. This singular atmosphere helped George Town gain UNESCO World Heritage status alongside many iconic places worth discovering.
For many travellers in Southeast Asia, Penang is also a practical stopover, especially for those wishing to renew a Thai visa.
Travellers can reach Penang by train, bus, ferry or plane.
Getting to Penang by train
Travelling to Penang by train remains one of the most scenic ways to explore Malaysia and southern Thailand. The journey is long but comfortable, making it ideal for slow travel enthusiasts and budget-conscious travellers.
The nearest railway station to Penang is Butterworth on the mainland. From there, travellers can take the ferry directly to George Town.
From Bangkok to Malaysia by train
There are three main rail options from Bangkok:
- travel down to Narathiwat in southern Thailand,
- stop in Hat Yai,
- continue all the way to Butterworth.
Bangkok - Narathiwat
Bangkok - Hat Yai
Malaysian border to Penang
Bangkok - Butterworth
Online booking for the entire route is still limited. Travellers usually need to purchase tickets directly at Hua Lamphong railway station in Bangkok.
Train timetable: see here.
Kuala Lumpur - Penang
Getting to Penang by bus or van
Buses remain the cheapest way to reach Penang. Connections are available daily from Thailand, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
From Thailand
Many companies operate direct services to Penang, especially from cities close to the Malaysian border.
Bangkok - Narathiwat by bus
Bangkok - Hat Yai by bus
Other routes from Thailand
From Singapore
From Kuala Lumpur
Why Penang is a major travel hub in Southeast Asia
Penang enjoys a strategic location between Thailand, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Because of this, the island has become one of the main transport gateways in Southeast Asia.
Many travellers use Penang as a stopover before continuing to Langkawi, southern Thailand or Kuala Lumpur. With its international airport, railway connections and extensive long-distance bus network, Penang remains one of the easiest destinations to access in Malaysia without renting a car.
Taking the ferry to Penang
The ferry remains one of the most pleasant ways to reach the island while avoiding the long bridge connecting Penang to the mainland.
Between 5:20 am and 10:00 pm, ferries operate every 20 to 30 minutes. Between 10:00 pm and 1:00 am, departures run once per hour. Tickets can be purchased directly at the Butterworth terminal.
Two ferry companies currently operate the crossing.
Ferry ticket prices
- adult: 1.20 RM
- child (5 to 12 years old): 0.60 RM
- motorbike: 2 RM
- bicycle: 1.40 RM
- car: 7.70 RM
From Penang, travellers can also reach the Langkawi archipelago in northern Malaysia.
The fastest option: flying to Penang
Several airlines offer direct flights to Penang. Flying remains the quickest and most comfortable way to reach the island.
Demand can be high during school holidays and long weekends in Malaysia and Thailand, so booking in advance is recommended.
Flights from Thailand
Bangkok - Penang
Phuket - Penang
Flights from Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur - Penang by plane
Leaving Penang and travelling onward
Leaving Penang is just as easy as arriving. Travellers heading back to mainland Malaysia can take the ferry from the Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal.
Once in Butterworth, it is easy to continue the journey by train, bus or van to other destinations across Malaysia.
FAQ: transport to and from Penang
What is the cheapest way to get to Penang?
The bus is usually the cheapest option from Thailand or Kuala Lumpur. Trains can also be affordable for long-distance travel.
Can you travel from Bangkok to Penang by train?
Yes, although the journey is long and usually requires connections through southern Thailand and Butterworth.
How much does the ferry to Penang cost?
An adult ticket costs around 1.20 RM. Prices vary depending on vehicles transported.
What is the fastest way to reach Penang?
Flying is the fastest option, especially from Bangkok, Phuket and Kuala Lumpur.
Should transport to Penang be booked in advance?
Yes, especially during holidays, long weekends and major festivals in Malaysia or Thailand.
