Airport Taxis

Taxis and limousines plying the airport route use the coupon system with fixed fares from the airport to the destination. The passenger pays the fare at the taxi booth in exchange for the coupon. Limousine services charge slightly higher fares.

By Road

The Penang Bridge links the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia to Penang Island. A one-way toll is imposed at the toll plaza in Seberang Perai on the mainland. No payment is required for travelling from the island to the mainland. The North-South Expressway makes Penang easily reached via Seberang Perai.

By Rail

Rail travel to Penang along the main line from the south to the north terminates at Butterworth. Taking the train is a comfortable way to travel as well as see a lot of the countryside. The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth takes approximately six hours. Air conditioned coaches are available for first and second class passengers. From the Butterworth Railway Station, the ferry terminal is a stone’s throw away.

By Ferry

There are ferry services available from Butterworth to Penang Island. The Penang Port Commission provides a 24-hour service for both passengers and vehicles. Tickets are purchased at the terminal in Butterworth.

Penang's public transport system is efficient and getting around by taxis, buses or trishaws may be a fun and inexpensive way of catching the sights.

Taxis

City taxis are required to charge according to the meter effective from August 2006. Please request that the meter is switched on before you begin your ride.

Buses

Most buses use coin machines to collect fares. The main bus terminals are at Pengkalan Weld (ferry terminal) and KOMTAR (ground floor). A free shuttle bus service around Georgetown is available on weekdays from 7am — 7pm. It begins at the Jetty (bus stop I) and passes by Komtar (bus stop 10) before returning to the Jetty (please refer to map).

Trishaws

Besides the novelty of travelling in this three-wheeled vehicle, trishaws allow visitors the opportunity to enjoy the sights in Georgetown at a leisurely pace. One can stop at any point to snap pictures or buy souvenirs. There is no standard fare and it would be wise to agree on the price before you get on the trishaw. For extended sightseeing, it is advisable to hire them by the hour.