How to get from Penang to Langkawi
How to get from Penang to Langkawi in 2026: flights, mainland ferries, costs, and booking tips.
At A Glance (Penang to Langkawi)
| Mode | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Direct Flight (Penang → Langkawi) | ~35–45 min in the air (+ check-in & transfers) | Fastest & easiest for most travelers |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~RM 80–250 one-way on low-cost & full-service airlines when booked early » compare PEN–LGK flights | alt. fares | 12Go listing | ||
| 🚆🚢 Train/Bus + Ferry via Kuala Perlis | ~5.5–7 h total (Penang → Butterworth/Arau → Kuala Perlis → Langkawi) | Cheapest overall & shortest sea crossing |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~RM 80–130 total (train/bus + taxi + ferry) » KTM trains | compare ferries | Langkawi Ferry Line tickets | ||
| 🚌🚢 Bus/Car + Ferry via Kuala Kedah | ~6–8 h total (Penang → Alor Setar → Kuala Kedah → Langkawi) | Travelers pairing Langkawi with Alor Setar/North Kedah |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~RM 90–150 total (bus/train + taxi + ferry) » Kuala Kedah–Langkawi ferries | schedule overview | ||
| 🚗✈️ Flight + Transfers/Packages | ~3–5 h door-to-door (hotel → airport → Langkawi hotel) | Families, lots of luggage, stress-free travel |
| 🏷️ Cost: Flight as above + ~RM 50–150 per car for private airport transfers » LGK transfers on Klook | GetYourGuide options | ||
Which Option or Route Should You Choose?
- Fastest & most convenient: Option #1 – Direct Flight Penang → Langkawi. Ideal if you have limited time, are prone to seasickness, or are connecting to/from international flights.
- Cheapest/most economical: Option #2 – Train/Bus + Ferry via Kuala Perlis. Usually the lowest total cost, and the ferry crossing is the shortest, which is great if you’re nervous about longer boat rides.
- Most scenic/with extra stops: Option #3 – Bus/Car + Ferry via Kuala Kedah. Combine your Langkawi trip with a visit to Alor Setar or the Kedah countryside.
- Most comfortable with luggage & kids: Option #4 – Flight + Transfers/Packages, using pre-booked drivers and bundled flight+hotel deals so you don’t have to juggle multiple bookings.
- Note on direct ferries: In the past there was a direct Penang–Langkawi fast ferry. Operators have announced that this route has ended, so most travelers now fly or go via Kuala Perlis/Kuala Kedah. Always double-check any “direct ferry” listing before booking.
How to Book and Practical Tips
- Compare flights first: If your dates are flexible, check Booking.com Flights and Trip.com for Penang–Langkawi fares; flying can sometimes be almost as cheap as the train+ferry combo, especially in low season.
- Use rail for the scenic mainland leg: For the Kuala Perlis route, book KTM Komuter tickets from Butterworth to Arau via the official KTM portal or app; check schedules on KTMB. Trains are inexpensive and more comfortable than buses for this stretch.
- Reserve ferries in advance in peak periods: For school holidays and long weekends, grab Kuala Perlis/Kuala Kedah–Langkawi seats early via Langkawi Ferry Line, comparison sites like 12Go, or local platforms such as Cuti Cuti Langkawi.
- Plan airport & jetty transfers: In Penang and Langkawi, Grab is the go-to ride-hailing app. For extra comfort or late-night arrivals, pre-book private cars using Welcome Pickups in Penang, GetTransfer in Langkawi, or dedicated airport transfers on Klook and GetYourGuide.
- Sort accommodation & car rental together: If you plan to drive around Langkawi, bundle your hotel and car hire. Compare hotel deals in Penang on Booking.com, then look at Booking.com Cars in Langkawi for island car rentals.
- Consider scooters for Langkawi exploring: Confident riders can rent scooters to explore beaches and viewpoints. Compare options on BikesBooking or check local and app-based rentals like Klook’s scooter rentals.
- Use luggage storage on transit days: If you have a late ferry/flight but an early check-out in Penang, stash your bags with a partner through Radical Storage so you can roam George Town hands-free.
- Watch the weather & sea conditions: Heavy rain or strong winds can delay ferries. Flights are usually more reliable during the rainy season (roughly March–November), so consider flying if your schedule is tight.
- Keep some buffer time: Whether you’re connecting train–ferry or flight–ferry, leave at least 1–2 hours between segments to account for traffic, queues, and minor delays.
✈️ Option #1 — Direct Flight Penang → Langkawi (Fastest & Most Convenient)
Very fast Frequent departures Needs airport transfers
- Overview: Non-stop domestic flights connect Penang International Airport (PEN) with Langkawi International Airport (LGK) in about 35–45 minutes. Airlines like AirAsia, Firefly, and Malaysia Airlines usually operate multiple daily services.
- How to book (with price): One-way fares can start around RM 80–250 outside peak holidays. Compare times and prices on Booking.com Flights, Trip.com, or flight listings on 12Go.
- Pros: Fastest possible route; simple logistics with just one main booking; minimal seasickness risk; ideal if you’re already at the airport or arriving from another Malaysian city.
- Cons: Slightly higher cost than the absolute cheapest ferry routes; airport transfers on both Penang and Langkawi add time and cost; limited luggage on low-cost carriers unless you pay extra.
- Official info: For airport facilities and transport options, see the Langkawi airport transport page and Penang tourism information centres via local tourism websites before you go.
Step-by-step: Direct Flight Penang → Langkawi
- Get to Penang International Airport (PEN): From George Town, take a Grab car (usually 30–45 minutes depending on traffic) or a Rapid Penang bus from KOMTAR/Jetty. If you prefer a pre-arranged ride with meet-and-greet, you can book a private transfer via Welcome Pickups in Penang or use Grab’s airport ride option.
- Arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure: Domestic flights are straightforward, but you still need time for check-in, baggage drop, and security. Penang airport is compact but can be busy during holiday periods.
- Fly Penang → Langkawi: Flight time is roughly 35–45 minutes. Choose seats near the window for great views of the Andaman Sea and surrounding islands as you approach Langkawi.
- Arrive at Langkawi International Airport (LGK): Collect your luggage and pass through a quick arrival hall. Langkawi is duty-free, so many visitors stop to check prices at the airport shops.
- Transfer to your hotel: Use the airport taxi counter or book a private transfer via Klook airport transfers or GetYourGuide. Grab is also widely available on the island for rides to Pantai Cenang, Kuah, or other beaches.
- Explore Langkawi: Once checked in, many visitors rent scooters or cars to get around. You can pre-book scooters via BikesBooking or Klook, or arrange car rental via Booking.com Cars.
Getting to the main embarking points (Penang International Airport)
- From George Town (historic centre): Grab rides are the most convenient and take about 30–45 minutes depending on traffic. Rapid Penang buses from KOMTAR or Weld Quay are cheaper but slower (around 1 hour).
- From Batu Ferringhi/Tanjung Bungah: Expect 60–75 minutes by Grab or taxi, longer in peak traffic. Leave extra time if traveling in the evening or on weekends.
- From Butterworth/Penang Sentral: Cross to the island via the Penang bridge (Grab/taxi) or take the ferry to George Town and then continue by bus or Grab to the airport.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚆🚢 Option #2 — Train/Bus + Ferry via Kuala Perlis (Cheapest, Short Sea Crossing)
Budget-friendly Shortest ferry ride More connections
- Overview: Travel from Penang Island to Butterworth on the mainland, continue by KTM Komuter train or bus to Arau (Perlis), then by taxi/Grab to Kuala Perlis jetty and take a ferry to Kuah, Langkawi. The sea crossing from Kuala Perlis is the shortest, typically about an hour.
- How to book (with price): KTM Komuter fares from Butterworth to Arau are usually under RM 15. From Arau, a Grab/taxi to Kuala Perlis costs around RM 20–30. Ferries from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi typically cost RM 25–40 one-way depending on operator and nationality; check and book via Langkawi Ferry Line or comparison pages like 12Go.
- Pros: Often the most economical route; short ferry crossing reduces motion sickness risk; trains are comfortable and scenic; flexible timing with many daily departures on the commuter line.
- Cons: Several transfers (ferry → train → taxi → ferry); more room for small delays; you’ll carry luggage through stations and jetties.
- Official info: Check train timetables on the official KTMB website and ferry schedules via Langkawi Ferry Line.
Step-by-step: Penang → Butterworth → Arau → Kuala Perlis → Langkawi
- George Town to Butterworth (Penang Sentral): From Weld Quay (near George Town’s ferry terminal), take the passenger ferry to Penang Sentral on the mainland. The ride is short and frequent. From Penang Sentral, follow the signs a few minutes on foot to Butterworth KTM station.
- Butterworth to Arau by KTM Komuter: Board a northbound KTM Komuter Utara train to Arau. Trains usually take around 1.5 hours. You can buy tickets at the station or check schedules and fares on the KTMB website or app.
- Arau to Kuala Perlis jetty: At Arau railway station, use Grab or a local taxi to reach Kuala Perlis ferry terminal (about 20–30 minutes). If you prefer buses, ask staff at the station for the latest local bus options to Kuala Perlis.
- Ferry from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi (Kuah): At Kuala Perlis jetty, either collect pre-booked tickets or buy on the spot (arrive early in peak season). Ferries generally take 1–1.5 hours depending on operator and sea conditions.
- Arrival at Kuah Jetty, Langkawi: Disembark at Kuah and use Grab, taxi, or pre-arranged transfers to reach your accommodation in Pantai Cenang, Tengah, or other parts of the island.
- Optional extras: If connections are long, store luggage at your Penang hotel or with services like Radical Storage in Penang so you can explore George Town between check-out and your ferry/train.
Getting to the main embarking points (Kuala Perlis route)
- Penang Island → Penang Sentral (Butterworth): Take the passenger ferry from George Town to Penang Sentral or use Grab/taxi via the Penang Bridge if you’re already on the mainland side of the island.
- Penang Sentral → Butterworth KTM Station: The station is connected directly to the bus and ferry terminal; follow signs from the ferry pier to the train platforms.
- Arau KTM Station → Kuala Perlis Jetty: On arrival, head outside to the taxi/Grab pick-up area. It’s a straightforward 20–30 minute drive to the jetty.
- Kuala Perlis Jetty → Kuah Jetty (Langkawi): Ferries run multiple times daily; arriving at least 30–45 minutes early is recommended.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚌🚢 Option #3 — Bus/Car + Ferry via Kuala Kedah (Good for Alor Setar & Kedah)
Budget–midrange Visit Alor Setar Slightly longer ferry
- Overview: This route combines a bus or train to Alor Setar with a taxi/Grab to Kuala Kedah jetty, followed by a ferry to Kuah, Langkawi. It’s popular if you want to explore Kedah’s capital or if Kuala Perlis ferries are fully booked.
- How to book (with price): Bus or rail from Penang to Alor Setar usually costs RM 15–30. Taxi/Grab from Alor Setar to Kuala Kedah is often around RM 15–25. Ferries from Kuala Kedah to Langkawi typically cost around RM 40–50 one-way; you can check times and book through Langkawi Ferry Line or ferry portals linked by Cuti Cuti Langkawi.
- Pros: Good option if you’re staying in or visiting Alor Setar; plenty of bus and train connections from Penang; slightly more sheltered ferry route.
- Cons: Ferry crossing is a bit longer than Kuala Perlis; can involve more time in traffic, especially around Alor Setar; schedules vary so you’ll want to line up your timings.
- Official info: For updated ferry schedules, rely on Langkawi Ferry Line and Langkawi tourism portals.
Step-by-step: Penang → Alor Setar → Kuala Kedah → Langkawi
- Penang to Alor Setar: From Penang Sentral, take a bus or KTM Komuter/ETS train north to Alor Setar. Buses leave from the terminal; trains run from Butterworth station. Travel time is usually 1.5–2 hours.
- Alor Setar to Kuala Kedah jetty: Use Grab or taxi from Alor Setar bus or train station to Kuala Kedah ferry terminal (about 15–20 minutes). It’s an easy, direct ride.
- Ferry Kuala Kedah → Langkawi (Kuah): Ferries often take around 1.5–2 hours. If you have pre-booked tickets via Langkawi Ferry Line, follow the instructions on where to collect boarding passes; otherwise, buy at the terminal counters.
- Arrival in Langkawi: Once you reach Kuah, proceed as usual with taxis, Grab, or pre-booked transfers to your hotel.
- Overnight in Alor Setar (optional): If you want to break the journey, consider spending a night in Alor Setar and heading to Kuala Kedah the next morning for a more relaxed transfer.
Getting to the main embarking points (Kuala Kedah route)
- Penang Island → Penang Sentral: Use the ferry from George Town or road bridges with Grab/taxi to reach Penang Sentral on the mainland.
- Penang Sentral → Alor Setar: Choose between bus (slightly cheaper) or rail (often more comfortable). Check latest schedules locally or online before travel.
- Alor Setar stations → Kuala Kedah Jetty: Grab and taxis wait outside both bus and train stations; confirm the price or use the app before starting.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚗✈️ Option #4 — Flight + Transfers & Packages (Door-to-Door Comfort)
Hassle-free Great for groups Higher total cost
- Overview: Combine a Penang–Langkawi flight with private transfers and, if you like, a hotel package. This minimizes stress by having drivers meet you in both Penang and Langkawi, ideal if you’re traveling with kids, older relatives, or lots of luggage.
- How to book (with price): Start by finding your flight on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com, then add hotel and car rental if needed. For on-the-ground transfers, pre-book cars with Welcome Pickups in Penang, use GetTransfer for custom rides in Langkawi, or choose fixed-price airport transfers via Klook and GetYourGuide.
- Pros: Door-to-door convenience; drivers track your flight; no haggling; great when arriving late at night or with multiple bags or surfboards.
- Cons: More expensive than simply using Grab or local taxis; less spontaneity; you’ll need to keep an eye on cancellation policies and pick-up instructions.
- Alternative: If you’re on a tighter budget, mix and match: fly PEN–LGK but use Grab on arrival, or book a private transfer on just one side of the trip.
Step-by-step: Door-to-Door with Flight & Transfers
- Choose your dates and flight: Decide when you want to travel and compare flight prices and times on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com, looking for combinations that match hotel check-in/check-out times.
- Book private transfers: Reserve an airport pick-up from your Penang hotel to PEN (for example via Welcome Pickups or Grab’s advance booking). Do the same for your arrival in Langkawi via GetTransfer, Klook, or GetYourGuide; specify your airline and flight number.
- Confirm pick-up details: Check your emails or app for the driver’s name, contact details, and exact meeting point (e.g., arrival hall exit, holding a sign with your name).
- Fly Penang → Langkawi: As in Option #1, check in at PEN and enjoy the short hop to Langkawi.
- Meet your driver in Langkawi: After collecting bags, find your driver at the agreed point, then relax in the vehicle on the way to your resort or villa.
- Return journey: Mirror the process on the way back, or keep things flexible by using Grab/taxis for your return to the airport or ferry jetty.
Getting to the main embarking points (Hotels, Airports & Jetties)
- Hotel pick-up in Penang: Many private transfer services and local drivers can collect you directly from George Town, Batu Ferringhi, or other areas and take you to Penang airport or Penang Sentral.
- Hotel pick-up in Langkawi: Island transfers can be arranged from popular zones like Pantai Cenang, Tengah, Kuah, or Datai Bay to the airport or Kuah jetty.
- Ride-hailing backup: Keep the Grab app installed as a backup in case of unexpected delays or if you need an extra ride during your stay.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
FAQ (Penang to Langkawi)
Is it better to fly or go by train and ferry from Penang to Langkawi?
Most travelers choose to fly because it’s the fastest (around 35–45 minutes in the air) and usually only a bit more expensive than the cheapest train+ferry combo once you factor in time and comfort. However, if you enjoy overland travel, are on a tighter budget, or want to visit the mainland (Alor Setar, Perlis), the train/bus plus ferry routes via Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah are excellent alternatives.
How far in advance should I book my Penang–Langkawi transport?
For flights, booking 3–6 weeks in advance typically gives you the best balance of price and choice. Ferries can often be booked closer to departure, but for weekends, school holidays, and festival periods, pre-book at least a few days ahead, especially from Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah.
Can I still take a direct ferry from Penang to Langkawi?
Direct fast ferries between Penang and Langkawi have mostly been discontinued; operators have announced that this route has ended, and current official schedules focus on Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah as the main departure points. If you see a direct Penang–Langkawi ferry advertised, verify carefully with the operator before relying on it.
Can I bring my car to Langkawi from Penang?
There is no direct car ferry from Penang to Langkawi. If you want to bring your vehicle, drive to Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah and look for roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) services or parking options near the jetties, then take the passenger ferry to Langkawi. Many visitors find it easier to leave their car on the mainland and rent a car or scooter on the island instead.
What’s the easiest way to get around Langkawi after I arrive?
The easiest ways to move around Langkawi are by rental car/scooter, Grab, or private transfers. Rental cars are ideal if you plan to explore multiple beaches and viewpoints; scooters suit solo travelers and couples comfortable with riding. Taxis and private drivers can be pre-booked or found at the airport and major hotels.