How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang

Thinking of travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Penang? Here’s a complete guide to every way to make the trip, from fast ETS trains to scenic road journeys.

At A Glance (Kuala Lumpur to Penang)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚆 ETS Train (KL Sentral → Butterworth + Penang)	~4–5h total (train + transfer to island)	Comfortable, reliable travel, light–medium luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~MYR 70–120 one-way ETS + MYR 2–10 local ferry/bus/taxi » compare train options | book ETS on KTMB
🚌 Direct Bus (TBS Kuala Lumpur → Penang)	~5–6.5h (traffic-dependent)	Budget travelers, frequent departures
🏷️ Cost: ~MYR 30–60 one-way » compare buses | alt. bus/van listings
✈️ Flight (KUL/SZB → PEN)	~1h flight (~3–4h door-to-door)	Fastest option, onward connections
🏷️ Cost: ~MYR 80–250 one-way (sales can be cheaper) » search KL–Penang flights | KUL→PEN fares
🚗 Self-Drive / Private Car (North–South Expressway)	~4–5h driving (no long stops)	Road trips, families, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: Car rental from ~MYR 120–250/day + ~MYR 60–90 fuel/tolls » compare car rentals | private transfer quotes

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most Convenient: If you value speed and have a mid-range budget, go for a direct flight. Door-to-door, it’s usually the quickest, especially if you’re already near the airport or connecting from another international flight.
• Best Overall Experience: The ETS train via Butterworth is a great balance of speed, comfort and scenery. You avoid highway traffic, ride in air-conditioned comfort, and then connect by ferry or bus to George Town.
• Cheapest / Most Economical: The direct bus from TBS is usually the lowest-cost option, with plenty of departures and overnight journeys that save on accommodation.
• Most Scenic / Flexible Schedule: A self-drive or private car gives you full control over stops (Ipoh, Taiping, seaside towns) and schedule—ideal for small groups and families.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book trains and buses early on weekends and holidays: Seats on ETS and express buses can sell out around public holidays and school breaks. Platforms like 12Go Asia make it easy to compare ETS and bus options on one screen.
• Use official booking sites for exact schedules: For ETS trains, always double-check times and ticket availability on KTMB’s online ticketing portal. For buses from TBS, refer to the official terminal info at TBS BTS and cross-check with your chosen platform.
• Plan how you’ll move on Penang Island: Once you reach Butterworth or Penang Airport, you can continue by Rapid Penang bus, Grab ride-hailing, or a pre-booked private transfer. Check local transport info on Penang’s official tourism site at MyPenang Transportation.
• Store luggage if you travel before check-in: If your bus or train arrives before hotel check-in, stash bags with services like Radical Storage in Kuala Lumpur or a location such as Radical Storage in Penang and explore bag-free.
• Consider combos with activities: For day tours and local transfers around Penang or KL, browse options on GetYourGuide Penang or transport-focused listings on Klook George Town.
• Ride-hailing is widely available: In both Kuala Lumpur and Penang, apps like Grab (most popular) and AirAsia Ride are convenient alternatives to traditional taxis and complement intercity options like Welcome Pickups in Kuala Lumpur or GetTransfer in Malaysia.

🚆 Option #1 — ETS Train via Butterworth (Fast & Comfortable)

Comfortable Reliable timing Island transfer needed

• Overview: Take the ETS (Electric Train Service) from Kuala Lumpur Sentral to Butterworth station on the mainland, then continue to Penang Island by ferry, Rapid Penang bus or taxi/Grab to George Town.
• How to book (with price): ETS tickets typically cost around MYR 70–120 one-way in second class. You can compare operators and times on 12Go Asia train listings or book directly via KTMB’s official booking site. The ferry or bus from Butterworth to George Town is usually MYR 2–5, while a taxi/Grab is higher but still affordable.
• Pros: Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches; power outlets on most services; scenic views of countryside; avoids road traffic; frequent daily departures.
• Cons: You must transfer at Butterworth to reach Penang Island; popular departures can sell out; fixed schedule offers less spontaneity than driving.

Step-by-step: ETS Train via Butterworth

1. Reach Kuala Lumpur Sentral: Use Rapid KL LRT/Monorail, KTM Komuter, or a Grab/taxi to reach KL Sentral. If you’re coming straight from KLIA, you can use the KLIA Ekspres/Transit or a pre-booked airport transfer such as Welcome Pickups or a Grab ride.
2. Collect or show your ETS ticket: If you booked online through KTMB or 12Go Asia, either show the e-ticket QR code on your phone or collect any required physical ticket at the station counter (follow instructions from your booking confirmation).
3. Board the ETS train to Butterworth: Check the departure board for your train number and platform. ETS journeys to Butterworth usually take around 4 hours, with reserved seating and limited onboard snacks—carry water and light food.
4. Transfer to Penang Island: From Butterworth station, follow signs to the pedestrian walkway leading to the ferry terminal (Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim). Take the passenger ferry across to George Town (Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda), or use a taxi/Grab if you prefer going by bridge.
5. Continue within Penang: On arrival in George Town, connect via Rapid Penang buses, Grab, or local taxis to your hotel. For bus routes and passes, check the Penang transport section at MyPenang.

Getting to the main embarking points (KL Sentral & Butterworth)

• KL Sentral (departure): Connected to multiple lines (LRT, Monorail, MRT, KTM Komuter, KLIA Ekspres). Follow station signage for “Intercity/ETS” and arrive at least 30–40 minutes before departure, especially if you need to collect tickets.
• From central KL to KL Sentral: Stay near an LRT/MRT station or use Grab/AirAsia Ride for a direct trip. You can also book a private transfer, for example via GetTransfer in Kuala Lumpur, if you have lots of luggage or are travelling with kids.
• Butterworth station to ferry: After exiting the train platforms, follow signs to the ferry (usually a covered walkway). Ferries across to George Town are operated by Penang Port; see service details on the official Penang ferry services page.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Direct Bus from TBS (Most Popular & Budget-Friendly)

Low cost Many departures Traffic-dependent

• Overview: Take an intercity express bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) in Kuala Lumpur directly to Penang (usually Butterworth, Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal, or central George Town drop-offs depending on the operator).
• How to book (with price): Typical fares range from MYR 30–60 one-way, with standard and executive coaches. Use 12Go Asia’s KL–Penang bus page to compare companies and departure times, or book bundled transfers and private vans through Klook transfers.
• Pros: Cheapest option for most dates; wide choice of departure times (including overnight); direct routes with only short rest stops.
• Cons: Travel time varies with highway traffic; less legroom than ETS on some buses; night buses can arrive very early in Penang.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus from TBS to Penang

1. Reach TBS: From central KL, take the LRT (Sri Petaling Line) to Bandar Tasik Selatan, KTM Komuter, or ETS/Komuter services that stop at the integrated station. Alternatively, use Grab/AirAsia Ride or a pre-booked private transfer.
2. Check in and find your platform: After buying/collecting your ticket (online bookings from 12Go Asia or other platforms can usually be shown as e-tickets), proceed through the boarding gates to the correct platform. TBS has clear electronic boards with gate and departure information.
3. Enjoy the highway ride: The journey typically takes 5–6.5 hours with one or two rest stops at highway service areas where you can buy snacks and use toilets.
4. Arrival in Penang: Many buses stop at Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal on Penang Island or at Butterworth terminal on the mainland. From either, you can take a Rapid Penang bus, Grab, or taxi to George Town or your hotel.
5. Overnight buses: If you choose an overnight departure, consider booking a hotel offering 24-hour reception or luggage storage, or use a service like Radical Storage in Penang when you arrive too early to check in.

Getting to the main embarking points (TBS & Penang Terminals)

• Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS): TBS is the main long-distance bus terminal for KL’s south and northbound routes. Check facilities and terminal information at the official website TBS BTS.
• From central KL to TBS: LRT (Sri Petaling Line), KTM Komuter, and ERL (KLIA Transit) all stop at Bandar Tasik Selatan station, which connects directly to TBS. You can also arrive by Grab or taxi if you have heavy luggage.
• Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal: Main bus hub on Penang Island, with Rapid Penang buses and taxis/Grab available outside. Look for route maps and updates via Rapid Penang.
• Butterworth Bus Terminal: Convenient if your accommodation is on the mainland or if you prefer to take the ferry to George Town.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

✈️ Option #3 — Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Penang (Fastest Overall)

Very fast Good for connections Airport transfers needed

• Overview: Fly from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) or Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport/Subang (SZB) to Penang International Airport (PEN). Flight time is around one hour, with low-cost carriers operating multiple daily services.
• How to book (with price): Promo fares can start from around MYR 80–150 one-way, with typical prices up to MYR 250+ depending on season and how early you book. Compare deals on Booking.com Flights and check additional options and sales on Trip.com’s KUL–PEN route page.
• Pros: Short flight; best for tight schedules or when connecting from international long-haul flights; easy to add checked baggage.
• Cons: Extra time and cost for airport transfers and check-in; potential delays; less eco-friendly than ground transport.

Step-by-step: Flying from KL to Penang

1. Get to the airport (KUL or SZB): From central KL, use KLIA Ekspres/KLIA Transit, airport buses, Grab/AirAsia Ride, or book a dedicated airport transfer such as Welcome Pickups or a ride arranged through GetTransfer.
2. Check in and clear security: Arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight, more if travelling at peak times or checking in luggage.
3. Fly KUL/SZB → PEN: The flight is usually about an hour. On arrival at Penang International Airport, follow signs for arrivals and baggage claim.
4. Transfer from Penang Airport: Continue by Rapid Penang bus, Grab, taxi, or a pre-booked transfer (you can find Penang-focused transfer options on GetYourGuide Penang transfers or Klook transport).
5. Check in or store bags: If your accommodation isn’t ready, use your hotel’s storage or a luggage service such as Radical Storage Penang to free yourself for sightseeing.

Getting to the main embarking points (KUL/SZB & PEN)

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL): Connected to KL Sentral via KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit, as well as airport buses and taxis/Grab. Pre-booked services like Welcome Pickups airport taxi provide fixed-price, meet-and-greet transfers.
• Subang Airport (SZB): Closer to central KL, accessible by taxi/Grab or shuttle buses. Ideal for those staying in Petaling Jaya or western KL.
• Penang International Airport (PEN): Located in the south of Penang Island, with Rapid Penang buses, taxis and Grab available. Check local transport details through MyPenang transportation info.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Self-Drive or Car Rental (Flexible Road Trip)

Flexible Good for groups Requires confident driver

• Overview: Rent a car in Kuala Lumpur and drive north along the North–South Expressway (E1) towards Penang, crossing via the Penang Bridge or Second Penang Bridge. The drive is straightforward and well signposted.
• How to book (with price): Daily car rental rates usually start around MYR 120–250 depending on vehicle type and season. Compare offers on Booking.com car rentals in Kuala Lumpur. If you prefer two wheels at your destination, you can also look at bike and scooter rentals in Malaysia via BikesBooking Kuala Lumpur.
• Pros: Maximum flexibility on departure time and route; easy detours to Ipoh, Taiping, Kuala Kangsar and other attractions; ideal for families or groups with luggage.
• Cons: Tolls and fuel add to costs; driver must be comfortable with Malaysian highway traffic and urban driving in Penang; parking in central George Town can be tight.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive from Kuala Lumpur to Penang

1. Pick up your rental car: Collect your vehicle from downtown KL or directly at KUL/SZB. Check your rental inclusions (insurance, mileage, toll card, etc.).
2. Join the North–South Expressway (E1): From KL, follow signs for Ipoh/Butterworth, entering the E1 expressway. Keep some cash or a Touch ‘n Go card ready for tolls.
3. Plan scenic stops: Consider breaks in Ipoh (old town, cave temples), Taiping (lake gardens), or Bukit Merah for a more relaxed trip.
4. Cross to Penang: Near Penang, choose between the Penang Bridge (more direct to George Town) or the Second Penang Bridge (often less congested). Follow signs to your accommodation.
5. Return or keep the car: Decide whether to keep the car for exploring Penang or drop it off at a local branch (one-way rentals may have extra fees—check when booking).

Getting to the main embarking points (Car Rental Locations & Expressway)

• Car rental pick-up: Many agencies have counters at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and in downtown areas like Bukit Bintang or KL Sentral. Check details and reviews on your booking platform.
• Joining the highway: From central KL, follow signs to Ipoh/Butterworth/George Town and merge onto E1. Use a navigation app (Google Maps, Waze) for live traffic updates.
• Fuel and rest stops: R&R (rest and recreation) stops along the E1 offer fuel, food, toilets and prayer rooms. It’s easy to plan breaks every 1–2 hours.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #5 — Private Transfer (Door-to-Door Comfort)

Door-to-door Great for groups Higher cost

• Overview: Book a private car or van with driver from your hotel in Kuala Lumpur directly to your accommodation in Penang. This is the least stressful option if you’re travelling as a family, with seniors, or with a lot of luggage.
• How to book (with price): Prices typically start around USD 70–120 (roughly MYR 330–550) per vehicle depending on size and stops. Check dedicated routes on GetTransfer’s KL→Penang page, private transfers on GetYourGuide, or intercity transfers listed on Klook Kuala Lumpur transport.
• Pros: No need to visit stations or terminals; hotel-to-hotel convenience; space for families and multiple bags; potential for custom sightseeing stops along the way.
• Cons: More expensive than bus or ETS; you are still in highway traffic; must book in advance during busy periods.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer from KL to Penang

1. Request a quote and book: Enter your pickup/drop-off locations and date on platforms like GetTransfer or the KL–Penang transfer pages on GetYourGuide or Klook.
2. Confirm vehicle and extras: Choose car size, child seats, extra stops, and luggage requirements. Check whether tolls and fuel are included.
3. Meet your driver: On travel day, your driver typically meets you at your hotel lobby or specified location at the agreed time. Many services share driver and vehicle details in advance.
4. Enjoy door-to-door travel: Sit back as your driver handles navigation and breaks. You can request short stops at highway R&R areas or attractions if included in your booking.
5. Arrival in Penang: Get dropped off directly at your accommodation. Afterwards, you can rely on Grab, Rapid Penang, or local taxis for getting around.

Getting to the main embarking points (Your Hotel & Pickup Spots)

• Hotel pickups in Kuala Lumpur: Most transfer companies will pick you up from major hotels and apartments in central Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya—just ensure the address and contact number are correct.
• Alternatives to dedicated transfers: If a private transfer is out of budget, you can still approximate door-to-door convenience by combining Grab or Welcome Pickups (for airport legs) with ETS or buses.
• Arrival in Penang: Make sure your drop-off spot is clearly pinned in your booking (especially for heritage-lane hotels in George Town where streets can be narrow).
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Kuala Lumpur to Penang)

How long does it take to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang?
For most travellers, expect about 4–5 hours by ETS train (including the island transfer), 5–6.5 hours by bus, around 4–5 hours by self-drive, and roughly 3–4 hours door-to-door by plane when you factor in airport transfers and check-in.

What is the cheapest way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang?
The cheapest option is usually an express bus from TBS, especially if you book in advance and travel outside peak holidays. ETS promo fares can sometimes be competitive, but buses tend to win on price.

What is the most comfortable way to travel?
For most people, the ETS train offers the best balance of comfort, reliability and price. If budget allows, a private transfer or a carefully timed flight plus airport transfers offers maximum comfort and minimal hassle.

Do I need to book my ticket in advance?
It’s strongly recommended to book ETS and bus tickets in advance during weekends, school holidays and festive seasons (such as Chinese New Year and Hari Raya). Flights are also cheaper when booked earlier. Outside of peak periods, same-day tickets are often possible but never guaranteed.

Is it better to stay on Penang Island or the mainland?
Most leisure travellers stay on Penang Island, particularly in George Town or Batu Ferringhi, for easy access to food, heritage sites and beaches. Staying on the mainland (Butterworth) can be convenient for those focusing on onward rail or bus travel.