Penang Named Among World's Best Places to Travel in 2027, Only Southeast Asian Destination Selected

Penang best places to travel 2027 has become a major Malaysian tourism headline after National Geographic selected the state for its Best of the World 2027 travel list.

Published on October 20, 2026, the international travel feature highlights 25 destinations and experiences worth exploring in the coming year.

Penang is the only destination from Malaysia and Southeast Asia included in the selection, appearing alongside places in Japan, China, Norway, Egypt and Australia.

Latest News: Penang Earns International Travel Recognition

According to Bernama and The Star, Penang's Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai welcomed the recognition on October 21.

The annual list was prepared through research and recommendations from National Geographic's travel experts and international editorial teams.

Penang was selected for its combination of history, natural attractions and cultural experiences.

However, the list is not a numerical ranking, meaning Penang was not officially declared the world's number one destination.

Related report: The Star – National Geographic Names Penang Among World's Best

Latest Update: Why Was Penang Chosen?

The Penang best places to travel 2027 recognition reflects the destination's distinctive mix of urban heritage and nature.

National Geographic highlighted the contrast between Penang Island and mainland Seberang Perai.

On the island, George Town features historic shophouses, street murals, traditional architecture and coastal scenery.

Across the strait, Seberang Perai offers villages, mangrove rivers, agricultural landscapes and modern industrial centres.

This combination gives visitors opportunities to experience different aspects of Malaysian life within one state.

Official feature: National Geographic – Best of the World 2027

Current Status: Penang Hill Cable Car Planned for 2027

One of the future attractions highlighted by National Geographic is the planned Penang Hill cable car.

The project aims to connect the Penang Botanic Gardens with Penang Hill, offering visitors scenic views over the surrounding rainforest.

According to the travel feature, the proposed journey is expected to take less than 10 minutes.

However, as of October 23, 2026, the new cable car has not begun commercial operations.

Visitors can still reach Penang Hill using the existing funicular railway.

Food Highlights: Char Koay Teow, Laksa and Nasi Kandar

Food remains a major reason travellers visit Penang.

National Geographic highlighted popular local dishes, including char koay teow, asam laksa and nasi kandar.

The destination's food culture reflects Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan influences developed over generations.

Well-known establishments mentioned in its travel coverage include Siam Road Char Koay Teow and Penang Road Famous Laksa.

For international visitors, these dishes provide a delicious introduction to Malaysia's multicultural identity.

Public Interest: Why Is George Town So Popular?

George Town has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, alongside Melaka.

Its historic streets feature heritage buildings, traditional shops, clan jetties and colourful murals.

Other attractions highlighted by National Geographic include Kek Lok Si Temple, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion and Penang Hill.

Together, these experiences make the state attractive to travellers interested in architecture, culture, food and outdoor activities.

What's Next: Will Penang Attract More Visitors in 2027?

The Penang best places to travel 2027 recognition could increase international interest in the state.

However, there is currently no verified evidence that tourist arrivals will automatically reach record levels next year.

The Penang state government has indicated that it will continue strengthening tourism promotion and destination quality.

For Malaysians planning domestic holidays, the recognition adds another reason to explore Penang's familiar attractions and lesser-known experiences.

Further coverage: Malay Mail – Penang Is Southeast Asia's Only Pick

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