Penang has been named in National Geographic’s “The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027”, a list of 25 destinations and travel experiences for the year ahead. It is the only city in Malaysia and in Southeast Asia to appear on the list.
National Geographic published the list on 20 October 2026. Penang sits alongside Vestland in Norway, Luxor in Egypt, Madison in Wisconsin, Puerto Rico, Niigata in Japan, Chengdu in China, Jaipur in India and Melbourne in Australia, among others.
Wong Hon Wai, State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, said the state was proud to be among the destinations featured in the annual list.
“Penang is proud to be among the destinations featured in this prestigious annual list, which offers travellers inspiration and compelling reasons to explore the world in the coming year,” he said.
He said Penang’s inclusion followed a nominating, researching and reporting process, with the destination selected by National Geographic’s team of travel experts and the international editorial teams of Nat Geo Traveler.
National Geographic describes Penang as a state whose character comes from the pull between the island and the mainland. “Penang state gets much of its character from the push and pull between Penang Island and mainland Seberang Perai. Starting on Penang Island, travelers can drift from the UNESCO-protected streets of urban George Town to rainforest-fringed beaches, then cross the Penang Strait to the mainland, where rural villages called kampongs and winding, mangrove-filled rivers sit alongside modern industrial hubs.”
Wong said National Geographic’s brand, its international magazine and digital platforms, and its factual storytelling have long inspired audiences of all ages to explore the world, deepen their understanding of it and care for the planet.
“The list of ‘The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027’ by National Geographic continues to spark curiosity and a spirit of discovery among travellers worldwide, encouraging them to seek out the distinctive experiences and attractions that destinations around the world have to offer,” he said.
Penang had earlier been featured in National Geographic’s 2025 coverage of the best island in Southeast Asia for food, in recognition of its culinary heritage.
“Being featured once again by National Geographic further reinforces Penang’s appeal as an international tourism destination. It reflects the island’s distinctive character and the experiences that continue to make it attractive to visitors from around the world,” he said.
Wong said a place on a travel list with such reach and editorial standing would help raise Penang’s global profile and strengthen its appeal to international travellers.
“More importantly, this international recognition is a testament to the dedication, close collaboration and sustained efforts of Penang’s tourism industry stakeholders, who have worked tirelessly to develop and promote our destination,” he said.
He said the recognition belonged to the whole Penang tourism industry, including operators and organisations that had worked together to advance the sector.
“This honour belongs to all our tourism industry stakeholders. Their collective commitment, collaboration and perseverance have contributed to Penang’s continued development as a tourism destination,” he said.
Wong added that the state government would keep to its principle of striving for excellence and continuous improvement, and would carry on working to strengthen the state’s tourism industry.
“We will continue to enhance Penang’s tourism brand, raise its international profile and strengthen its appeal, with the aim of welcoming more international visitors to experience all that Penang has to offer,” he said.
