Penang travel guide: Why CNN and New York Times put it on their 2026 must-visit list
The CNN Travel Team named the state among the top 15 places to travel to, describing Penang as "a taste of history."
GEORGE TOWN - Penang has kicked off the New Year on a high note, earning a coveted spot on the authoritative CNN/New York Times Places to Visit 2026 listing, alongside 20 other destinations worldwide.
The CNN Travel Team named the state among the top 15 places to travel to, describing Penang as "a taste of history."
Under the top 52 places to visit this year (2026), the state was listed with the likes of Adelaide (its sister Australian city), Algeria (nation), Aragon (Spain), East Timor (nation), Brussels (Belgium), Devon (UK), Oulu (Finland), and Philadelphia (US).
Penang was mentioned for its gastronomic treats, with the Peranakan culture singled out, its history, murals as well as a reference to the world-famous shoemaker, Datuk Jimmy Choo, who is originally from Penang.
"Michelin or not, you don’t need to shell out a lot for a great meal in Penang: street stalls, night markets and kopitiams (traditional coffee shops) serve fragrant curries, steaming bowls of laksa, never-too-sweet pandan and coconut cakes, and other mouth-watering fare.
"Between meals, hunt for George Town’s iconic street murals, including one that pays tribute to hometown hero Jimmy Choo," said the website.
Meanwhile, Penang Global Tourism (PGT) in Facebook posted that the listing is a global recognition of what makes Penang truly special.
"Penang is the only destination in Malaysia to make the list. The reason is because Penang is celebrated as a multicultural city rich in history that continues to honour and celebrate its storied past.
"From layered heritage streets and living traditions to cultures that thrive side by side, Penang’s story isn’t just preserved, it’s lived every day,” PGT said.
Penang was also listed among the 52 places to visit by the New York Times. - BERNAMA
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