Cheap Flights to Chinatown

Popular airlines

What you need to know for your flight to Chinatown

Flights to Chinatown at a glance

Traveling to Chinatown is easy; simply select from a range of full-service or budget airlines, compare travel times, and choose the best option that fits your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Chinatown: Penang International Airport (PEN), Langkawi International Airport (LGK)
  • Closest airport to Chinatown: Penang International Airport, PEN (around 10 miles)
  • Flights per week: 220+ flights arriving across Chinatown airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Chinatown: around 20+ carriers

Popular airports near Chinatown

Chinatown is a charming village that caters to family getaways, city explorations, and business trips alike. Visitors are drawn to its blend of family-friendly activities, urban experiences, entertainment, and outdoor adventures. The area is conveniently accessible via two major airports.

  • Penang International Airport (PEN): Situated in the Barat Daya Pulau Pinang District, approximately 10 miles from Chinatown, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights. It links around 4 cities within Malaysia and over 20 destinations worldwide. Travelers can opt for an upgrade to business class for enhanced service, depending on the airline and route chosen. Key airlines operating here include Scoot, Malaysia Airlines, and Firefly.
  • Langkawi International Airport (LGK): Found in Langkawi, Kedah, roughly 76 miles from Chinatown, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, connecting to about 3 cities domestically and 1 international destination. Passengers have the option to upgrade to business class for a more comfortable experience, based on their selected airline and route. Notable airlines that serve this airport are AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Firefly.

Top routes to Chinatown

  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Chinatown (LGK/PEN), with one-way flight options from around $25
  • Singapore (SIN) to Chinatown (LGK/PEN), with one-way flights starting at around $45
  • Subang (SZB) to Chinatown (LGK/PEN), with one-way flight options from around $25
  • Bangkok (BKK/DMK) to Chinatown (PEN), with one-way airfare from around $50
  • Penang (PEN) to Chinatown (LGK), with one-way flights starting at around $20

Cheapest routes to Chinatown

  • Penang (PEN) to Chinatown (LGK), with budget one-way fares from around $20
  • Langkawi (LGK) to Chinatown (PEN), with cheap one-way fares from around $20
  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Chinatown (LGK/PEN), with low one-way fares from around $25
  • Subang (SZB) to Chinatown (LGK/PEN), with affordable one-way prices from around $25
  • Johor Bahru (JHB) to Chinatown (PEN), with affordable one-way prices from around $25

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Chinatown

  • Malaysia Airlines: This airline services Langkawi International Airport (LGK) and Penang International Airport (PEN), representing about 18% of arrivals in Chinatown. Expect an average one-way ticket price around $130, with potential business class seating options available based on the route.
  • Firefly: Flying to both Langkawi International Airport (LGK) and Penang International Airport (PEN), Firefly accounts for approximately 16% of arrivals to Chinatown. The average fare for a one-way trip is about $50.
  • Scoot: Providing flights to Langkawi International Airport (LGK) and Penang International Airport (PEN), Scoot also comprises around 16% of arrivals in Chinatown. Travelers can anticipate an average one-way fare of roughly $90.
  • AirAsia: Serving routes to Langkawi International Airport (LGK) and Penang International Airport (PEN), AirAsia makes up about 14% of arrivals to Chinatown. The typical one-way fare is around $50.
  • Singapore Airlines: Offering flights exclusively to Penang International Airport (PEN), Singapore Airlines contributes roughly 7% of arrivals in Chinatown. The average cost for a one-way ticket is about $450, with business class service options available depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Chinatown

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Chinatown are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Chinatown can reach up to 82.2°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 81.7°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $145, roughly 24% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? November offers an average one-way fare of around $160, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$145
February81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$170
March82.2°F (27.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyHigh$182
April82.6°F (28.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$180
May82.8°F (28.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyLow$187
June82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$225
July82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$216
August82.2°F (27.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverage$188
September81.7°F (27.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyLow$175
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$247
November80.2°F (26.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$160
December79.7°F (26.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$219

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Chinatown

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Chinatown is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Chinatown hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Chinatown flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Chinatown

Chinatown welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Chinatown efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Langkawi International Airport, Langkawi Seaport, a seaport, is located about 4.2 miles from the airport.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Chinatown, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Chinatown is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Chinatown on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Chinatown

  • Little India: Little India is a vibrant village located 0.2 mile drive away from Chinatown. This area draws travelers for its rich cultural experiences, family-friendly atmosphere, and exciting adventures. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including trips to the nearby water park. Key highlights include the Georgetown UNESCO Historic Site, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, and Penang City Hall, all of which offer a glimpse into the area's historic and cultural significance, making it an ideal spot for culture enthusiasts.
  • Tanjung Tokong: Tanjung Tokong is a lively neighborhood located 3 miles drive away from Chinatown, perfect for families, business travelers, and city explorers. This area is known for its shopping attractions, including modern shopping malls and centers. Visitors can explore local landmarks such as Gurney Drive, a beautiful esplanade great for family outings, and the Penang Avatar Secret Garden, an urban park that offers a unique outdoor experience. Don’t miss KOMTAR, a striking modern tower that adds to the city’s skyline.
  • Downtown George Town: Downtown George Town is a bustling neighborhood located 0.5 mile away from Chinatown. Ideal for families and business travelers alike, this area offers a mix of shopping venues and cultural sites. Local attractions include Gurney Drive, which provides a scenic esplanade for leisurely strolls, and the iconic KOMTAR tower. Additionally, the Georgetown UNESCO Historic Site beckons those interested in cultural exploration, showcasing the rich history that defines this vibrant cityscape.

Tips for short-haul flights to Chinatown

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothes, and efficiently planning your outfits. This strategy also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack your own snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Chinatown

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, which is usually 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may offer seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take a moment to browse the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Chinatown?
The cheapest month to fly to Chinatown is when demand is low. Off-peak months are usually when you'll find cheap fares. To keep costs down, steer clear of flying during school breaks and public holidays.
Which US cities fly direct to Chinatown?
To fly to Chinatown directly, simply select the "Direct flights only" box when you explore trips on Expedia and we'll show you all the available options to compare.
How to find a cheap flight to Chinatown?
Traveling in the low season and booking early are two easy ways to get cheap flights to Chinatown. Or, consider departing on a Thursday, which, on average, is 16% cheaper than leaving on a Sunday.* Want to be the first to know as soon as fares fall? Simply set up price tracking on the Expedia app for real-time updates.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Chinatown?
You can find awesome deals on last-minute flights to Chinatown, especially if your plans are flexible. Consider your options for departing from a different hub, changing your dates or selecting an alternative airline to get a cheap flight to Chinatown.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Chinatown?
Find the departure dates you want and a price you'll love by booking your domestic flight to Chinatown up to 28 days in advance. Search for tickets between two and four months ahead if you're jetting to Chinatown from an international destination.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Chinatown?
You can save an average of 8% if you purchase plane tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to snapping up a cheap flight to Chinatown, timing makes a difference.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Chinatown?
Chinatown is connected to 22 airports globally through 20 airlines, with Penang Intl. Airport (PEN) as its primary gateway. Choose from these major airlines to Chinatown when planning your journey:

  • Firefly
  • AirAsia
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Singapore Airlines

Where do you fly into Chinatown?
Penang Intl. Airport (PEN) is the main hub for passengers flying to Chinatown. Or you can disembark at Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR). Compare fares between these airports to find the cheapest or easiest way to fly to Chinatown.
How far is the airport from central Chinatown?
You'll be approximately 10 mi southwest of central Chinatown after touching down at Penang Intl. Airport (PEN).
Can I save money by booking a Chinatown trip package?
Bundle your flight and hotel and you could save hundreds of dollars. Plus, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your Chinatown flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's simple to organize all your Chinatown travel arrangements in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Chinatown?
If you bought your flight to Chinatown within the last 24 hours, you can typically change or cancel it without fees. After that, additional charges may apply depending on the airline's rules and restrictions. For more information, head to our Customer Service Portal. Remember that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be issued a credit toward future travel rather than a direct refund. When browsing Expedia, check the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters to compare tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Book with confidence

Travel information

Destination airport
Chinatown
Destination airport IATA code
PEN

Explore a world of travel with Expedia