Penang has kicked off 2026 on a high note by earning spots on prestigious international travel lists for the year.
CNN Travel Recognition
The CNN Travel team has included Penang among its top places to visit in 2026, describing the state as “a taste of history”.
It highlighted the pastel-painted houses and vibrant food markets familiar from the film ‘Crazy Rich Asians’, noting that much of the movie set in Singapore was actually filmed in Penang.
Peranakan culture, blending Chinese, Southeast Asian and European influences, shines through especially in the diverse and acclaimed food scene recognised by the Michelin Guide.
One standout is Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery in George Town, Penang’s central town and a Unesco heritage site, praised for its vintage decor, colourful tiles and 1950s-60s music.
Even without Michelin stars, great meals are affordable at street stalls, night markets and kopitiams, offering fragrant curries, steaming laksa, pandan and coconut cakes, among other delights.
Visitors can also explore George Town’s famous street murals, including one honouring local icon Jimmy Choo.
The CNN list is topped by Adelaide in Australia, followed by Algeria and Arusha in Tanzania.
New York Times Accolade
Penang Global Tourism, the state tourism bureau that collaborates with key players in the industry, noted that Penang’s rich history and multicultural spirit have also been celebrated by The New York Times.
Such global recognition truly sets Penang apart.
Penang ranks No. 15 on The New York Times’ highly anticipated “52 Best Places to Go in 2026” annual list.
It is proudly the only destination from Malaysia to feature.
The state is portrayed as a multicultural city steeped in history that continues to honour its storied past.
From heritage streets and living traditions to cultures thriving together, Penang’s story is not just preserved but lived daily.
