Penang, a vibrant island state in Malaysia, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, diverse culture, and delicious food. Getting to Penang from Kuala Lumpur (KL), the capital of Malaysia, is easy and convenient, with several transportation options available. Here are seven hassle-free ways to travel from KL to Penang in 2025:
1. Fly from KLIA or KLIA2 to Penang International Airport (PEN)
Flight Duration: 1 hour
Cost: Around RM150-RM300
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Penang from KL. There are direct flights from both Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and KLIA2 to Penang International Airport (PEN). The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Several airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air, offer regular flights between KL and Penang.
2. Take the Express Bus from KL Sentral to Penang Sentral
Travel Duration: 5-6 hours
Cost: Around RM50-RM70
The express bus is a comfortable and affordable option for traveling from KL to Penang. Buses depart from KL Sentral, the main transportation hub in KL, and arrive at Penang Sentral, the main bus terminal in Penang. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours. Several bus companies, such as Transnasional, Plusliner, and Konsortium, operate express bus services between KL and Penang.
3. Drive from KL to Penang via the North-South Expressway (NSE)
Driving Duration: 4-5 hours
Cost: Around RM100-RM150 (including tolls)
Driving is a convenient option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace. The North-South Expressway (NSE) connects KL to Penang, and the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours. There are several rest stops along the NSE, where you can stop for food, drinks, and bathroom breaks.
4. Take the KTM Intercity Train from KL Sentral to Butterworth
Train Duration: 6-7 hours
Cost: Around RM50-RM70
The KTM Intercity Train is a comfortable and scenic way to travel from KL to Penang. Trains depart from KL Sentral and arrive at Butterworth, a town on the mainland opposite Penang Island. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours. From Butterworth, you can take a ferry to Penang Island.
5. Take the Ferry from Kuala Kedah to Penang Island
Ferry Duration: 40 minutes
Cost: Around RM10-RM20
If you’re driving or taking the train to Kuala Kedah, a town on the mainland near Penang, you can take a ferry to Penang Island. The ferry departs from Kuala Kedah and arrives at Penang Port, the main ferry terminal on Penang Island. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Several ferry companies, such as Langkawi Ferry Services and Penang Port Sdn Bhd, operate ferry services between Kuala Kedah and Penang Island.
6. Take the SkyCab from Butterworth to Penang Hill
Cable Car Duration: 7 minutes
Cost: Around RM30-RM40 (return trip)
Once you arrive in Butterworth, you can take the SkyCab, a cable car, to Penang Hill, a hilltop destination offering panoramic views of Penang Island. The cable car journey takes approximately 7 minutes. From Penang Hill, you can explore the various attractions, including the Kek Lok Si Temple, the Penang Hill Railway, and the Penang Botanical Gardens.
7. Use a Ride-Hailing Service
Travel Duration: 4-5 hours
Cost: Around RM200-RM300
Ride-hailing services, such as Grab and MyCar, are a convenient option for getting to Penang from KL. You can book a ride through the ride-hailing app and be picked up from your location in KL and dropped off at your destination in Penang. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Conclusion
Getting to Penang from KL is easy and convenient, with several transportation options available. Whether you prefer to fly, take the bus, drive, take the train, or use a ride-hailing service, there is an option that will suit your needs and budget.
Hot Search Title:
7 Effortless Ways to Reach Penang from KL in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide
