Towns

Penang is made up of several towns and districts split between the island and its hinterland. Most tourists and visitors will recognise Georgetown City, Penang's capital, and other important areas, such as Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah. However, the mainland section of Seberang Perai which has several key townships including Butterworth, are quickly developing to become strategic commerce, industrial and residential areas, as more and more space on Penang runs out and developers have to look for alternatives.

Georgetown is the capital city of Penang, and is recognised by UNESCO as a world heritage site. This is the hub of all commercial and business activities in Penang, as well as shopping, nightlife and entertainment establishments. The careful mix of old architectural structures such as colonial shophouses and modern buildings, along with its rich cultural heritage, is what makes Georgetown so appealing and attractive to visitors and tourists.

Seberang Perai, or Perai for short, is the mainland (hinterland) section of Penang that defines its borders from surrounding states of Peninsular Malaysia. Contained within this district are several key towns of Penang, including its most important industrial area and chief town Butterworth, followed by places such as Nibong Tebal and Bukit Mertajam. Seberang Perai is known as Province Wellesley in English.

Butterworth is the main town in Seberang Perai, and remains the most important entry way to the island via the Penang Bridge and ferry services. Locals will also refer to Butterworth as Bagan, which is its Malay name. Industrial activities and factory areas are prominent features and landmarks of Butterworth. There is also a Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Butterworth and a popular tourist attraction which is the Penang Bird Park.

Bayan Lepas is a rapidly developing town in Penang, located in the southern sector of the island. The Penang International Airport is located here, providing the main entry point for visitors to Penang by air. Bayan Lepas is also the industrial hub of the island, where many factories of large global companies can be found. Several tourist attractions such as the Snake Temple and War Museum are situated in this town.

Gurney Drive is a seafront promenade in Georgetown, and is one of the most popular areas for shopping, dining and entertainment in Penang among locals and visitors alike. There is a large number of hawker stalls concentrated in a special area of Gurney Drive, providing a good opportunity for tourists to try the local Penang food. Gurney Plaza is located here, This place was named after Sir Henry Gurney and was previously known as North Beach.

Pulau Tikus is a suburb in Georgetown, not to be confused with a nearby off shore island of which it takes its name after. While Pulau Tikus translates to 'Island of Rats', this neighbourhood is far from a rodent-infested valley, but considered one of the most affluent areas on the island and home to many an elite member of society. Mansions, colonial bungalows and upper class condominiums are prominent features of Pulau Tikus.