🇲🇾 Malaysia · Bus · Train · Flight
Kuala Lumpur to Penang by bus, train or plane
Penang, with its UNESCO-listed capital George Town and famous street food, is one of Malaysia's favourite stops. From Kuala Lumpur you can take a bus, the fast electric train or a short flight.
Express bus
Buses are frequent, cheap and comfortable. Most leave from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) in south KL, with some from other points in the city. The journey usually takes about 4.5–5 hours. Buses typically stop in Butterworth on the mainland and then cross the Penang Bridge to the Sungai Nibong terminal on the island. "Executive" coaches with 2+1 seating are worth the small extra cost.
ETS train
Malaysia's electric ETS trains run from KL Sentral to Butterworth in about 4 hours. Butterworth station is next to the ferry terminal: the Penang ferry crosses to George Town in about 15–20 minutes. Trains are smooth and on time, and seats sell out on weekends and holidays, so book ahead.
Flight
Flights take about 1 hour to Penang International Airport in the south of the island, roughly 30–45 minutes from George Town. Useful if you are connecting from KLIA, otherwise the train is similar door to door.
Which to choose
- Cheapest: express bus.
- Most comfortable and reliable: ETS train + ferry.
- Connecting from an international flight: fly.
Coming up from Singapore? See Singapore to Kuala Lumpur. More in the Malaysia hub. Check live prices on 12Go.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang?
Usually about 4.5–5 hours, depending on traffic.
Does the train go to Penang island?
No. ETS trains stop at Butterworth on the mainland; from there take the ferry or a car across to George Town.
Where do buses to Penang leave from in KL?
Most depart from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS); some operators use other pickup points.
Is it worth flying?
Flights take about 1 hour, but with airport time the train is often similar door to door.