Seberang Perai, the mainland side of Penang, is often overshadowed by George Town’s charm, but it’s a treasure trove of cultural landmarks, scenic nature spots, shopping havens, and hidden gems. From serene islands to colourful temples, here are the 10 best places to visit in Seberang Perai for an unforgettable trip.
Here is a list of the top 10 Attractions in Seberang Perai
Penang Ferry Terminal – The Gateway
Location: Butterworth, Seberang Perai, Penang
Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 8:30 pm daily
Highlights: Scenic ferry ride across Penang Strait, skyline views, heritage charm
Facilities: Ticket counters, seating areas, toilets, sheltered waiting areas
Nearby Food: Butterworth hawker stalls
Why Visit: An iconic way to connect Seberang Perai with George Town while soaking up sea breeze and harbour views.St. Anne’s Church – A Spiritual Landmark
Location: Jalan Kulim, Bukit Mertajam, Penang
Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Highlights: 1846 Catholic church, basilica status, beautiful gardens
Facilities: Car park, prayer halls, restrooms
Nearby Food: Bukit Mertajam cafés and kopitiams
Why Visit: A peaceful and historical site, especially vibrant during the St. Anne’s Feast in July.Tow Boo Kong Temple – Temple of the Nine Emperor Gods
Location: Raja Uda, Butterworth, Penang
Opening Hours: 7:00 am – 9:00 pm
Highlights: Ornate Taoist architecture, festival celebrations, intricate carvings
Facilities: Restrooms, seating, nearby parking
Nearby Food: Raja Uda’s famous Tom Yam noodles and seafood stalls
Why Visit: A cultural and architectural masterpiece that’s even more magical during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival.Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest (Cherok Tok Kun)
Location: Jalan Kolam, Bukit Mertajam, Penang
Opening Hours: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Highlights: Hiking trails, lush greenery, summit views at 545 m
Facilities: Parking, picnic areas, rest huts, basic toilets
Nearby Food: Local hawker stalls in Bukit Mertajam
Why Visit: Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking a peaceful hike with panoramic views.Frog Hill – The Jiuzhaigou of Penang
Location: Tasek Gelugor, Penang
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (best at sunrise or sunset)
Highlights: Former quarry with vibrant blue-green pools and red rock formations
Facilities: Limited—basic roadside parking
Nearby Food: Tasek Gelugor food stalls
Why Visit: An Instagram-famous photography hotspot that feels like a hidden paradise.Air Hitam Dalam Educational Forest
Location: Kepala Batas, Penang
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Highlights: Elevated boardwalks, mangroves, freshwater swamp, birdwatching
Facilities: Parking, information boards, rest huts
Nearby Food: Kepala Batas town eateries
Why Visit: A tranquil escape for birdwatchers and eco-tourism lovers.Penang Bird Park – Malaysia’s First Bird Park
Location: Jalan Todak, Seberang Jaya, Penang
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Highlights: Over 300 bird species, landscaped gardens, animal interactions
Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, shaded areas, parking
Nearby Food: Bird Park Café and Sunway Carnival Mall restaurants
Why Visit: A fun and educational attraction for families and nature enthusiasts.Pulau Aman – The Island of Peace
Location: Off Batu Kawan, accessible via Bukit Tambun Jetty
Opening Hours: Boat trips available 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Highlights: Fishing village, sandy beach, seafood delicacies
Facilities: Public toilets, small shops, boat jetty
Nearby Food: Pulau Aman Floating Seafood Restaurant (famous mee udang)
Why Visit: A peaceful island retreat just minutes from the mainland.Design Village Outlet Mall
Location: Batu Kawan, Penang
Opening Hours: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Highlights: Over 150 brands, tropical garden setting, bargain shopping
Facilities: Parking, toilets, baby care rooms, restaurants
Nearby Food: Starbucks, Coffee Bean, local eateries in mall
Why Visit: The largest outlet mall in Malaysia, perfect for shopaholics and fashion hunters.Sunway Carnival Mall & Butterworth Art Walk
Location: Seberang Jaya & Jalan Bagan Luar, Butterworth, Penang
Opening Hours:
Mall: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Art Walk: Open 24 hours
Highlights: Major shopping hub, colourful murals showcasing local culture
Facilities: Mall parking, restrooms, eateries; benches along Art Walk
Nearby Food: Mall restaurants and Butterworth kopitiams
Why Visit: Shop, dine, and explore artistic street murals in the heart of Butterworth.
Seberang Perai offers more than just a gateway to Penang Island—it’s a vibrant destination filled with nature, culture, and shopping experiences. Whether you’re hiking up Bukit Mertajam, relaxing on Pulau Aman, or exploring colourful temples, the mainland side of Penang will surprise you with its hidden charms.
