Penang has received two major international accolades, cementing its reputation as a world-class travel destination.
According to The New York Times, Penang has been named among the “52 Best Places to Travel in 2026,” ranking 15th on the list. Notably, it is the only city from Malaysia to be included.
In addition, CNN Travel also recognized Penang as one of the best travel destinations for 2026, further highlighting the state’s unique charm and global appeal. The announcement was shared on Penang Global Tourism’s official Facebook page today.
The tourism body said the honors not only recognize Penang’s appeal but also celebrate its rich history and multicultural spirit.
One of Penang’s iconic landmarks is the Chew Jetty in George Town, a historical site that has become a must-visit destination for tourists.
“This annual travel list by The New York Times is a great source of pride, and Penang is the only Malaysian destination included,” the tourism body said.
Penang is renowned as a historic, multicultural city, dedicated to preserving and celebrating its heritage. “From layered heritage streets and living traditions to a harmonious mix of cultures, Penang’s story is not just preserved—it is lived and passed on every day,” the statement added.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Huang Han Wei also shared the news on Facebook, praising the state’s achievements.
CNN Travel noted that this year’s list features destinations from six continents, with Penang representing Malaysia. The site also highlighted that fans of the film “Crazy Rich Asians” will recognize Penang’s colorful street markets and vibrant architecture, as many scenes were filmed there.
Penang is particularly famous for its Peranakan (Baba-Nyonya) culture, which blends Chinese, Southeast Asian, and European influences—most notably in its diverse and flavorful cuisine.
One Michelin-recommended spot is Auntie Lim’s Peranakan Restaurant in George Town, which features retro décor and nostalgic 1950s-60s music, offering diners a unique journey back in time.
Penang’s culinary delights are also affordable, with street stalls, night markets, and traditional coffee shops offering local favorites such as fragrant curries, steaming laksa, and pandan coconut cakes, loved by both tourists and locals.
Beyond food, Penang is also home to numerous artistic street murals, adding creativity and vibrancy to the city. The most famous is a mural honoring Jimmy Choo, the world-renowned shoe designer born in Penang.
Other destinations featured on the New York Times’ 2026 list include Adelaide (Australia), Algiers (Algeria), Arusha (Tanzania), Aragon (Spain), Bahrain, Brussels (Belgium), Chilean Fjords (Chile), Devon (UK), Dominica, Timor-Leste, Jamaica, Kanazawa (Japan), Orkhon Valley (Mongolia), Oulu (Finland), Pénico (Peru), Philadelphia (USA), Santa Monica (USA), Saint-Pierre (France), and Micronesia.
