Batu Ferringhi Night Market: everything you need to know

Batu Ferringhi Night Market is open every night alongside Penang’s main coastal road, offering souvenirs, clothes, electronics, plus a lively food court. Although the heavy traffic along the route removes some of its charm, it’s still well worth a visit for both the experience, and the chance of a bargain.

Every evening, from 7.00pm to 11.00pm, the streets of Batu Ferringhi are transformed into a bustling night market, making it one of the most popular attractions in Penang for locals and tourists alike. Running alongside the main road through the beach resort town of Batu Ferringhi, prepare yourself for a vibrant and busy experience, with stalls selling everything from clothes and electronics to jewellery and toys. Towards the end of the main section, an excellent food court is on hand for refuelling and a welcome break from the crowds.

Batu Ferringhi night market opening hours and location

The market takes over the main road in Batu Ferringhi every evening from around 7.00pm until 11.00pm (although some stallholders are here before and after these times). The busiest section lies between the Shangri-La Golden Sands and the Parkroyal Resort (two of the best hotels in Penang), though stalls continue further in both directions.

What to expect at Batu Ferringhi night market

The market is best approached as a browsing and (pleasantly) chaotic experience, rather than a serious shopping expedition. The narrow pavements aren’t designed for this many people, so don’t expect a leisurely stroll, especially if you’re here after about 8.30pm.

The quality of produce is best described as ‘mixed’, with some beautiful locally-produced artwork fighting for space amongst mass-produced toys and electronics that probably won’t last until you get home. It’s a good place to pick up cheap clothes, bags, shoes and sunglasses, even if the quality isn’t always perfect.

Although you’d never describe it as a boutique craft-market, it’s very similar to other night markets around Southeast Asia so, if you’ve been to one before, you’ll know what to expect. Much of the merchandise is aimed at tourists but if you’re patient, you will find the occasional hidden gem (we’ve personally found some lovely artwork along here).

For purchasing items, cards are generally not accepted. Make sure you either have cash handy or use e-wallet (such as Touch ‘n Go).

Set your expectations in terms of busyness and browsing potential: unlike most other Southeast Asian night markets, this one is set right alongside the traffic. You’ll be weaving in and out along the pavement with cars and motorbikes squeezing close by. At weekends, it’s not always the most relaxing of visits. Try to arrive early if you’d prefer a slightly quieter experience.

There’s a small fairground ride area for families with young kids, and plenty of eating options, ranging from small shacks to formal restaurants.

Food at Batu Ferringhi night market

When you need a break from shopping, it’s best to make a beeline towards Long Beach Food Court, located here along the main night market section. This is one of the best food courts in Penang, with a good mix of Malaysian dishes alongside international options. Despite first impressions, it’s actually quite the sanctuary from the crowds outside.

Choose a table and note the table number, then order directly at the food stalls. Dishes are brought to your table when ready, and you pay then (cash or e-wallet accepted, no cards). For drinks, someone will come directly to your table to take your order.

How to get to Batu Ferringhi night market

Traffic in Batu Ferringhi is notoriously bad in the evenings, especially when the market is in full swing on a weekend or public holiday. Queues can stretch several miles back towards George Town. If you’re staying nearby, the easiest option is simply to walk. Otherwise, Grab or bus is the most reliable way to get in and out, though expect near-gridlock at peak times. Try to jump in or out of the Grab or bus at the eastern edge of the night markets and walk the rest of the way.

The 101 and 102 bus trundle along the main road but never get above walking pace at busy times. Use our Penang bus tracker to see their progress.

There is parking available, but traffic crawls bumper to bumper on weekends and public holidays, so it’s rarely worth the hassle of driving.

Is Batu Ferringhi night market worth visiting?

If you’re staying in Batu Ferringhi, the night market is worth an evening stroll for the experience, a snack at the food court, and perhaps a small purchase or two. There’s no doubt it’s one of the top things to do in Batu Ferringhi, however it doesn’t match the atmosphere or variety of night markets elsewhere in Southeast Asia. If you enter with modest expectations, you’ll still enjoy the buzz of this beachfront town after dark.

It’s also worth combining your visit to Ferringhi Bay (located here), where shipping containers have been converted into beachfront restaurants with live music and fire shows in the evening. Particularly on the weekends, the atmosphere is lively enough to turn this corner of Penang into something approaching ‘party central’.

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