In the northwest of Malaysia are the islands Penang and Langkawi. These are two of the country's most famous and fun islands, and perfect to combine. But what is the best way to travel from Penang to Langkawi? We list all the options for you.
General information on Malaysia
Are you working on a travel plan for Malaysia? Then check out our tips for the best travel period, the budget and transport within Malaysia. You can find all information on Malaysia here.
1. Travelling from Penang to Langkawi by plane
The fastest way to travel from Penang to Langkawi is by plane. We ourselves thought this was really madness, taking the plane for such a small stretch?! But yes, it turned out to be the most practical option after all. The reason? Because the ferry between Penang and Langkawi no longer runs (since covid/corona), which also makes the plane the fastest option right away.
The flight takes around 40 minutes (yes... you read that right) and several airlines, such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines and Malindo Air, offer direct flights. A plane ticket will cost you between €35 and €65, depending on how early you book and which period you travel in. So just to recap:
- Travel time: approx. 40 minutes
- Airlines: AirAsia, Firefly, Batik Air
- Price: Between €35 and €65, or even cheaper
- Departure: Penang International Airport
- Arrival: Langkawi Airport
- Tickets: Want to know more or departure times, the different options and prices? Then take a look at 12GoAsia.
Tip: Keep in mind baggage fees for checked baggage if you fly with budget airlines. Booking via the platform 12GoAsia helps you find the best deals!
2. Travelling from Penang to Langkawi by bus and boat
Prefer to do the crossing in stages or have a stopover on the mainland? Then you can first travel by bus or taxi to Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah (travel time about 4-5 hours) and there take the ferry to Langkawi (€8). Personally, we don't recommend this as it will cost you quite a lot of travel time.
- Price: MYR 70-90 (€14-18)
- Tickets: Book easily online via 12GoAsia.
This option is actually particularly useful if you are travelling with your own transport or want to take a car or scooter with you. Indeed, ferries from the mainland can carry vehicles.
3. Travelling from Penang to Langkawi by boat (not available)
Definitely the most ideal option, but since COVID (corona) unfortunately sails the boat not more. It is unknown if and when this will happen again. For now, air travel is the best choice.
For Covid, the ferry was a popular way to travel between the islands as the crossing took just three hours. The ferry departed from Swettenham Pier in George Town and arrived at the Kuah Jetty on Langkawi. At the time, a ticket cost between RM 80 - RM 90 (€16 - €18) one-way. The Super Fast Ferry Ventures company provided two daily sailings, at 08:30 and 14:00, from the Ferry Terminal on Penang. Should the boat service return in the future, this is definitely an option to keep an eye on! Will you also let us know?
Our favourite items on the go!
When travelling, you will often have to wait: for your flight after checking in, during a long bus journey or on the boat. That's why we always take a few handy items with us to make the time go a bit faster.
Our e-readers really do go everywhere with us. We use them not only for reading, but also as notebooks. This way, we always have our notes and a good book at hand, without having to lug around extra weight. Whether you're on the beach, on the bus or spending a rainy afternoon in a café, with an e-reader you'll enjoy endless reading pleasure anytime, anywhere. Yes... we really are fans!
But besides reading, we also love games. Card games and compact travel games are ideal to take along and provide hours of entertainment without the hassle of dice getting lost or boards taking up too much space. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our blogs 14x Great travel games for 2 people or 20x Mini games - Perfect travel gifts for our favourites!
Read also: Travelling from Cameron Highlands to Penang. Check out our tips!
Read also: Travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi. Check out the 3 options!
Going the other way? No problem!
Do you do the route the other way round? No problem! Of course, all the above options work the other way around too, so just check what is most convenient (or cheapest) on your travel day. We hope this information helps you plan your trip. Do you have any questions or comments? You can always send us a message via Instagram or via [email protected].
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